As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 16, 2005
Registration No. 333-129279
UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
Amendment No. 1
to
FORM
S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Maryland |
6798 | 23-2413352 | ||
(State or Other Jurisdiction of |
(Primary Standard Industrial | (I.R.S. Employer | ||
Incorporation or Organization) |
Classification Code Number) | Identification No.) |
401 Plymouth
Road, Suite 500 Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462 (610) 325-5600 |
(Address,
Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrants Principal Executive Offices) |
Gerard H. Sweeney President and Chief Executive Officer 401 Plymouth Road, Suite 500 Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462 Telephone: (610) 325-5600 |
(Names and Address, Including Zip Code, and
Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Agent For Service) |
Copies to:
Michael H. Friedman, Esq. |
Michael E. Dillard, P.C. |
Pepper Hamilton LLP |
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP |
3000 Two Logan Square |
1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 4100 |
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2799 |
Dallas, Texas 75201-4675 |
(215) 981-4000 |
(214) 969-2800 |
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after this registration statement is declared effective and all other conditions to the merger of Prentiss Properties Trust with a subsidiary of Brandywine Realty Trust pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 3, 2005, included as Annex A to the enclosed joint proxy statement/prospectus, have been satisfied or waived.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box.
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.
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, as amended, or until this registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. A REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATED TO THE BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST COMMON SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST BEING REGISTERED PURSUANT TO THIS DOCUMENT HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. BRANDYWINE MAY NOT SELL OR ISSUE THESE SECURITIES UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT IS EFFECTIVE. THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND BRANDYWINE IS NOT SOLICITING OFFERS TO BUY THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
PROPOSED MERGERYOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT
Dear Shareholders:
On October 3, 2005, Brandywine Realty Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust, and Prentiss Properties Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust, agreed to combine their businesses by merging Prentiss and a subsidiary of Brandywine under the terms of the merger agreement described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Both of our boards of trustees have unanimously approved the merger, which we refer to as the REIT Merger. We are proposing the REIT Merger because we believe that it will benefit the shareholders of our respective companies by creating more shareholder value than either company could create individually and by allowing shareholders to participate in a larger, more diversified company. We expect our combined company to have significantly increased equity market capitalization, which we expect will provide greater financial flexibility and liquidity. We further believe that our combined resources will create opportunities for long-term growth and value-creation.
Upon completion of the REIT Merger, each Prentiss common share will be converted into the right to receive $21.50 in cash, subject to reduction by the amount of a special pre-closing cash dividend if the special pre-closing cash dividend is paid as described below, and 0.69 of a Brandywine common share. Cash will be paid in lieu of fractional shares. Because the portion of the merger consideration to be received in Brandywine common shares is fixed, the value of the consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders in the REIT Merger will depend upon the market price of Brandywine common shares at the time of the REIT Merger. You should obtain current market quotations for both Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares.
Brandywine common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BDN. On November 15, 2005, Brandywine common shares closed at $26.86 per share. Assuming the exercise prior to the REIT Merger of all outstanding options to acquire Prentiss common shares and all Prentiss Operating Partnership common units are converted into Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units in the Partnership Merger described below, we estimate that immediately after completion of the REIT Merger, 37.5% of the then-outstanding Brandywine common shares on a fully diluted basis will be held by former Prentiss common shareholders, based on the number of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares outstanding on November 15, 2005. Brandywine common shareholders will continue to hold their existing shares, which will not be affected by the REIT Merger. Prentiss common shareholders will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the Brandywine common shares and the cash they receive in the REIT Merger.
As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into separate agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America (which, together with the insurance company separate accounts and other funds managed by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, we sometimes refer to as Prudential). These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of Prentiss properties that contain up to an aggregate of approximately 4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration of up to approximately $747.7 million. We refer to the Prudential acquisition as the Prudential Acquisition and we refer to the properties that Prudential will acquire as the Prudential Properties. Please see The Prudential Acquisition and Related Agreements on page 101 of this joint proxy statement/prospectus for a discussion of the Prudential Acquisition.
If Prudential acquires the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss will cause Prentiss Operating Partnership to authorize a distribution payable to holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units on such date and then the Prentiss board of trustees would declare a special cash dividend (which we refer to as the Special Dividend) that would be payable to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend. The Prentiss Operating Partnership distribution, and the Special Dividend, if declared, would be funded from net cash proceeds of the Prudential Acquisition. If Prudential acquires the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger then the Special Dividend will not be declared and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would not be reduced. Whether or not the Special Dividend is declared, the total cash that each Prentiss shareholder will receive in connection with the consummation of the REIT Merger (either solely from the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration or from a combination of the Special Dividend and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration) will equal the same aggregate amount and will be payable at the same time.
We cannot complete the REIT Merger unless Prentiss common shareholders approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions at the special meeting to be held by Prentiss, and the Brandywine common shareholders approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement at the special meeting to be held by Brandywine. Each of Brandywine and Prentiss has scheduled a special meeting of its common shareholders at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time (10:00 a.m., Central time) on December 21, 2005 to vote on these matters. Regardless of the number of shares that you own or whether you plan to attend your special meeting, it is important that your shares be represented and voted at the meeting. Voting instructions are provided inside.
The Brandywine board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Brandywine and its shareholders. Brandywines board of trustees unanimously recommends that Brandywine common shareholders vote FOR approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
The Prentiss board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Prentiss and its shareholders. The Prentiss board of trustees unanimously recommends that Prentiss common shareholders vote FOR approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
This joint proxy statement/prospectus provides you with detailed information about the proposed REIT Merger. We encourage you to read the entire document carefully, including Risk Factors beginning on page 30 of this joint proxy statement/prospectus for a discussion of risks relevant to the REIT Merger.
Gerard H. Sweeney | Thomas F. August | ||
President and Chief Executive Officer | President and Chief Executive Officer | ||
BRANDYWINE | PRENTISS |
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THE SECURITIES TO BE ISSUED IN THE MERGER OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. |
This joint proxy statement/prospectus is dated November 16, 2005, and it is first being mailed to shareholders on or about November 17, 2005.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This joint proxy statement/prospectus incorporates by reference important business and financial information about both Brandywine and Prentiss that is not included in or delivered with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You can obtain any of the documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus through Brandywine or Prentiss, as the case may be, or from the Securities and Exchange Commissions website at www.sec.gov. Documents incorporated by reference are available from Brandywine and Prentiss, without charge, excluding any exhibits to those documents unless the exhibit is specifically incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You may obtain documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus by requesting them in writing or by telephone from the appropriate company as follows:
BRANDYWINE
|
PRENTISS | ||||
401 Plymouth Road, Suite 500 Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462 Attention: Investor Relations Telephone: (610) 325-5600 |
3890 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75220 Attention: Investor Relations Telephone: (214) 654-0886 |
If you would like to request documents, in order to ensure timely delivery you must do so at least five business days before the date of the special meetings. This means you must request this information no later than December 14, 2005. If you request any incorporated documents, we will mail them to you by first class mail, or another equally prompt means, within one business day after we receive your request.
You can also get more information by visiting Brandywines website at www.brandywinerealty.com and the Prentiss website by visiting www.prentissproperties.com. We are not incorporating the contents of the websites of the SEC, Brandywine or Prentiss or any other person into this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
See Where You Can Find More Information beginning on page 137.
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
401 Plymouth Road
Plymouth Meeting, Pa 19462
(610) 325-5600
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held December 21, 2005
A special meeting of the shareholders of Brandywine Realty Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust, will be held at The Four Seasons Hotel, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103 at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time, on December 21, 2005, for the following purposes:
(1) To consider and vote on a proposal to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the agreement and plan of merger, dated as of October 3, 2005, by and among Brandywine Realty Trust, Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P., Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, Prentiss Properties Trust and Prentiss Properties Acquisition Partners, L.P., a copy of which is attached as Annex A to the accompanying joint proxy statement/prospectus; and
(2) To transact such other business as may properly come before the special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.
Only holders of record of Brandywine common shares at the close of business on November 15, 2005, the record date for the Brandywine special meeting, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOUR BRANDYWINE COMMON SHARES BE REPRESENTED AND VOTED AT THE SPECIAL MEETING. WHETHER OR NOT YOU EXPECT TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING, PLEASE INSTRUCT THE PROXY HOLDERS HOW TO VOTE YOUR SHARES IN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING WAYS:
| MARK, SIGN, DATE AND PROMPTLY RETURN the enclosed proxy card in the postage-paid envelope (it requires no postage if mailed in the United States); |
| USE THE TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE NUMBER shown on the enclosed proxy card (this call is free in the United States and Canada) and follow the recorded instructions; or |
| VISIT THE INTERNET WEBSITE shown on the enclosed proxy card and follow the instructions provided to vote through the internet. |
Any proxy or instruction may be revoked at any time before its exercise at the special meeting. Please authorize your proxy using one of the methods set forth above so that your common shares will be represented and voted at the special meeting.
By Order of the Board of Trustees, | ||||
Brad A. Molotsky | ||||
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | ||||
Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania | ||||
November 15, 2005 |
PRENTISS PROPERTIES TRUST
3890 West Northwest Highway, Suite 400
Dallas, Texas 75220 (214) 654-0886
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held On December 21, 2005
A special meeting of the shareholders of Prentiss Properties Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust, will be held at 3890 West Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas, 75220 at 10:00 a.m., Central time, on December 21, 2005, for the following purposes:
(1) To consider and vote on the approval of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 3, 2005, by and among Brandywine Realty Trust, Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P., Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, Prentiss Properties Trust and Prentiss Properties Acquisition Partners, L.P., a copy of which is attached as Annex A to the accompanying joint proxy statement/prospectus and the merger of Prentiss with a subsidiary of Brandywine under the merger agreement, and the related transactions; and
(2) To transact such other business as may properly come before the special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.
Only holders of record of Prentiss common shares at the close of business on November 15, 2005, the record date for the Prentiss special meeting, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOUR PRENTISS COMMON SHARES BE REPRESENTED AND VOTED AT THE SPECIAL MEETING. WHETHER OR NOT YOU EXPECT TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING, PLEASE INSTRUCT THE PROXY HOLDERS HOW TO VOTE YOUR SHARES IN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING WAYS:
| MARK, SIGN, DATE AND PROMPTLY RETURN the enclosed proxy card in the postage-paid envelope (it requires no postage if mailed in the United States); |
| USE THE TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE NUMBER shown on the enclosed proxy card (this call is free in the United States and Canada) and follow the recorded instructions; or |
| VISIT THE INTERNET WEBSITE shown on the enclosed proxy card and follow the instructions provided to vote through the internet. |
Any proxy or instruction may be revoked at any time before its exercise at the special meeting. Please authorize your proxy using one of the methods set forth above so that your common shares will be represented and voted at the special meeting.
By Order of the Board of Trustees, | ||||
Gregory S. Imhoff | ||||
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | ||||
Dallas, Texas | ||||
November 15, 2005 |
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGERS
About the Mergers |
Q: | Why am I receiving this document? |
A: | The Brandywine board of trustees and the Prentiss board of trustees have each approved a merger agreement among Brandywine Realty Trust (which we refer to as Brandywine), Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P. (which we refer to as the Brandywine Operating
Partnership), Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, Prentiss Properties Trust (which we refer to as Prentiss) and Prentiss Properties Acquisition Partners, L.P. (which we refer to as the Prentiss Operating Partnership). The merger agreement provides for either
the merger of Brandywine Cognac I, LLC with and into Prentiss, with Brandywine Cognac I, LLC surviving as a subsidiary of the Brandywine Operating Partnership (which we refer to as the Forward REIT Merger) or the merger of Prentiss with and into Brandywine Cognac I,
LLC, with Prentiss surviving (which we refer to as the Reverse REIT Merger). |
If Brandywine obtains a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, as described in more detail in Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the MergersTax Consequences of the REIT Merger General The Private Letter Ruling and if the other
conditions to closing set forth in the merger agreement are satisfied or waived, then the REIT Merger would take the form of the Forward REIT Merger. If Brandywine does not obtain a private letter ruling, and if the other conditions to closing set forth in the merger agreement
are satisfied or waived, then the REIT Merger would take the form of the Reverse REIT Merger. We refer to either the Forward REIT Merger or the Reverse REIT Merger, whichever is consummated pursuant to the merger agreement, as the REIT Merger. |
As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into separate agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America (which, together with the insurance company separate accounts and other funds managed by The Prudential Insurance
Company of America, we sometimes refer to as Prudential). These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of identified Prentiss properties that contain up to an aggregate of approximately
4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration of up to approximately $747.7 million. The master agreement between Prudential and Brandywine provides Prudential with a limited right to change the composition of the portfolio of Prudential Properties. Generally,
Prudentials right to change the composition of the portfolio, either by electing not to purchase a property, or to substitute a property for another Prentiss property, is subject to the occurrence of an uncured adverse change at a property and is limited to properties that have, in
aggregate, an agreed upon value of $150 million. We refer to this acquisition as the Prudential Acquisition and we refer to the properties that Prudential will acquire as the Prudential Properties. |
If Brandywine does not obtain a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss will cause Prentiss Operating Partnership to authorize a distribution payable to
holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units on such date and the Prentiss board of trustees will declare a special cash dividend (which we refer to as the Special Dividend) that will be payable to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. In that case,
the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger would be reduced. If Brandywine does obtain the private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue
Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger. In that case, the Special Dividend will not be declared and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will not be reduced and the conversion ratio applicable to the
Partnership Merger will not be reduced. The amount of the Prentiss Operating Partnership distribution, if authorized, and the Special Dividend, if declared, will be funded from net cash proceeds of the Prudential Acquisition. |
|
The Brandywine common shares to be issued in connection with the REIT Merger cannot be |
1
issued without the approval of Brandywine common shareholders, and the REIT Merger and the Prudential Acquisition cannot be completed without the approval of the Prentiss common
shareholders. Brandywine and Prentiss will hold separate special meetings of their respective common shareholders to obtain these approvals. This document is the joint proxy statement for
Brandywine and Prentiss to solicit proxies for their respective special meetings. It is also the prospectus of Brandywine regarding the Brandywine common shares of beneficial interest
(which we refer to as Brandywine common shares) to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. |
This joint proxy statement/prospectus contains important information about the proposed merger, the Prudential Acquisition and the special meetings of Brandywine and Prentiss, and you should read it carefully. |
Q: | Why are Brandywine and Prentiss proposing the REIT Merger? |
A: | The boards of trustees of both companies believe that the REIT Merger represents a strategic combination that will be in the best interests of their respective shareholders and will achieve key elements of Brandywines strategic business plan to expand its operations and become
a more diversified company while retaining a disciplined focus in each of its geographic markets. The boards expect that the combined company will have significantly increased equity market capitalization, which the boards expect will provide greater financial flexibility and
liquidity. The boards of trustees of both companies believe that the combined resources of our companies will create additional and more significant opportunities for long-term growth and value-creation than either company could achieve independently. To review the reasons of
the companies for the REIT Merger in greater detail, please see The MergersRecommendation of Brandywines Board of Trustees and Brandywines Reasons for the REIT Merger and The MergersRecommendation of the Prentiss Board of Trustees and Reasons of
Prentiss for the REIT Merger. |
Q: | What will Prentiss common shareholders receive in the REIT Merger? |
A: | Prentiss common shareholders will receive $21.50 in cash, without interest, subject to reduction by the per share amount of the Special Dividend if the Special Dividend is declared as described below, and 0.69 of a Brandywine common share for each outstanding common share
of beneficial interest of Prentiss (which we refer to as Prentiss common shares) they own immediately prior to the REIT Merger. Cash will be paid instead of issuing fractional shares. In this joint proxy statement/prospectus, we refer to the cash and Brandywine common shares to
be issued in the REIT Merger as the REIT Merger consideration. |
Q: | What will Brandywine common shareholders receive in the REIT Merger? |
A: | Brandywine common shareholders will not receive any additional shares in connection with the REIT Merger. Each Brandywine common share held by Brandywine common shareholders will continue to represent one Brandywine common share after the REIT Merger. |
Q: | What happens if the market price of Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares changes before the closing of the REIT Merger? |
A: | No change will be made to the 0.69 exchange ratio for the exchange of Prentiss common shares for Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger. Because the exchange ratio is fixed, the value of the consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders in the REIT
Merger will depend upon the market price of Brandywine common shares at the time of the REIT Merger. |
Q: | How many Brandywine common shares will be owned after the REIT Merger by former Prentiss common shareholders? |
A: | Based on the number of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares outstanding as of November 15, 2005, the record date for the special meetings, immediately after the REIT Merger, former Prentiss common shareholders will own approximately 37.5% of the
then-outstanding Brandywine common shares, on a fully-diluted basis (assuming that all options to purchase Prentiss common shares are exercised prior to the REIT Merger and all Prentiss Operating Partnership common units are converted into Brandywine Operating |
2
Partnership Class A Units
in the Partnership Merger described below). |
Q: | On what am I being asked to vote? |
A: | Prentiss common shareholders. Holders of Prentiss common shares are being asked to vote to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. Your approval of the REIT Merger will constitute your approval of both the Forward REIT Merger and
the Reverse REIT Merger. Please see The Merger AgreementStructure of the REIT Merger for a discussion of whether the REIT Merger will be completed through the Forward REIT Merger or the Reverse REIT Merger. |
The merger agreement also provides for the merger of Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Brandywine Operating Partnership, with and into the Prentiss Operating Partnership. We refer to this merger as the Partnership Merger and we refer to the REIT
Merger and the Partnership Merger collectively as the Mergers. You are not being asked to vote on the Partnership Merger, which does not require the vote or consent of the holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units and can be consummated upon the sole approval
of the general partner of the Prentiss Operating Partnership. |
The Prentiss board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best
interests of, Prentiss and its shareholders. The Prentiss board of trustees unanimously recommends that Prentiss common shareholders vote FOR the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. |
Brandywine common shareholders. You are being asked to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. |
Brandywines board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best
interests of, Brandywine and its shareholders. Brandywines board of trustees unanimously recommends that Brandywine common shareholders vote FOR approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by
the merger agreement. |
Q. | What is the Partnership Merger? |
A: | Immediately after the consummation of the REIT Merger, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC will merge with and into the Prentiss Operating Partnership. In the Partnership Merger, each common unit of the Prentiss Operating Partnership (excluding common units owned by Prentiss,
the Prentiss Operating Partnership, Brandywine, the Brandywine Operating Partnership or their direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries, which shall remain issued and outstanding and unchanged by the Partnership Merger) will be converted into 1.3799 Brandywine
Operating Partnership Class A units (subject to reduction if the Special Dividend is declared). However, the holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units have the right to convert their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units into Prentiss common shares prior to
the REIT Merger, and any such Prentiss common shares that are issued upon conversion shall then be converted into the right to receive the REIT Merger consideration in the REIT Merger. |
The Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units to be issued in the Partnership Merger will, at any time and from time to time after the Partnership Merger, be exchangeable, at the request of the holder of such units, for cash or, at Brandywines option, for Brandywine
common shares on a one-for-one basis. |
We refer to the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units issued in the Partnership Merger as the Partnership Merger Consideration. |
The Partnership Merger will be completed immediately after the closing of the REIT Merger, with the Prentiss Operating Partnership surviving the Partnership Merger as a subsidiary of Brandywine Operating Partnership. |
|
Prentiss is not required to obtain the approval of the holders of Prentiss units of Prentiss Operating Partnership with respect to the REIT |
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Merger, the Partnership Merger, the merger agreement or the related transactions. |
Q: | What is the Prudential Acquisition? |
A: | As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into separate agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America (which we refer to as Prudential). These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the
day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of identified Prentiss properties that contain up to an aggregate of approximately 4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration of up to approximately $747.7 million. The master agreement between Prudential and
Brandywine provides Prudential with a limited right to change the composition of the portfolio of Prudential Properties. Generally, Prudentials right to change the composition of the portfolio, either by electing not to purchase a property, or to substitute a property for another
Prentiss property, is subject to the occurrence of an uncured adverse change at a property and is limited to properties that have, in aggregate, an agreed upon value of $150 million. |
If Brandywine does not obtain a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss will cause Prentiss Operating Partnership to authorize a distribution payable to
holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units on such date and the Prentiss board of trustees will declare the Special Dividend that will be payable to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. In that case, the cash portion of the REIT Merger
consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend and the 1.3799 conversion ratio applicable in the Partnership Merger would be reduced in accordance with a formula to reflect the amount of cash that would be distributed to holders of Prentiss
common units in connection with the Special Dividend. If Brandywine does obtain the private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger. In that case, the Special Dividend will not be
declared and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will not be reduced and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger will not be reduced. |
Q: | How soon after the special meetings will the Mergers occur? |
A: | We are working to complete the Mergers as soon as possible. A number of conditions must be satisfied before we can do so, including approval of the Brandywine common shareholders and the Prentiss common shareholders. Although we cannot be sure when all of the
conditions to the Mergers will be satisfied, we hope to complete the Mergers as soon as practicable after the special meetings. |
Q: | Who will manage Brandywine after the Mergers? |
A: | Brandywines board of trustees will be increased from eight to 10 members at the effective time of the Mergers and will include the eight current Brandywine trustees, in addition to Michael V. Prentiss, who is currently the Chairman of the Prentiss board of trustees, and Thomas
F. August, who is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Prentiss. Brandywines existing management team will be joined by several Prentiss executives who collectively will manage the operations of Brandywine after the REIT Merger. It is expected that the
Prentiss regional operations will be incorporated into Brandywines operating platform. |
Q: | What will my dividends be before and after the REIT Merger? |
A: | Until the REIT Merger is completed, Prentiss common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Prentiss board of trustees and declared by Prentiss. Other than the Special Dividend that may be declared in connection with the Prudential
Acquisition, the merger agreement permits Prentiss to pay a regular quarterly cash dividend in an amount not to exceed $0.56 per Prentiss common share. Prentiss currently intends to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends for any quarterly period that ends before the closing
of the REIT Merger. In addition, Prentiss may declare and pay, if necessary, a dividend in an amount equal to the minimum amount necessary to maintain the REIT status of Prentiss under the Internal Revenue Code. If any such dividend is declared and is in addition to the
regular $0.56 per share quarterly dividend, then the |
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cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of such additional dividend. |
Brandywine common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Brandywine board of trustees and declared by Brandywine. The merger agreement permits Brandywine to pay regular quarterly cash dividends consistent with past practice.
Brandywine currently intends to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends. |
The merger agreement provides that Brandywine and Prentiss will coordinate the declaration, record and payment dates of any dividends in respect of their respective common shares. This coordination reflects the intention of Brandywine and Prentiss that the holders of
Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares not receive more than one dividend, or fail to receive one dividend, for any single calendar quarter with respect to the shares they currently own and any Brandywine common shares received in the REIT Merger. |
On November 9, 2005, Prentiss and Brandywine each declared its fourth quarter 2005 dividend to be paid on January 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of November 18,
2005. |
After the closing of the REIT Merger, former holders of Prentiss common shares that receive Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger will receive the dividends payable to all holders of Brandywine common shares with a record date after the closing. Upon the closing of
the REIT Merger, former holders of Prentiss common shares will cease receiving any distributions or dividends on all Prentiss common shares held before the REIT Merger, other than any unpaid distributions or dividends declared by Prentiss before the closing of the REIT
Merger, including the dividend declared on November 9, 2005. |
For additional discussion of dividends, please see The Merger Agreement Coordination of Dividends. |
Q: | Do Brandywine common shareholders and Prentiss common shareholders have appraisal rights in connection with the REIT Merger? |
A: | No. Brandywine and Prentiss are both formed under Maryland law. Under Maryland law, because the companies common shares are each listed on a national securities exchange, Brandywine common shareholders and Prentiss common shareholders do not have dissenters
rights of appraisal in connection with the REIT Merger. |
Q: | What will be the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the REIT Merger? |
A: | The exchange of Prentiss common shares for the applicable REIT Merger consideration will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, a Prentiss shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes equal to the
difference, if any, between the value of the applicable REIT Merger consideration the shareholder receives and the shareholders adjusted tax basis in the Prentiss common shares exchanged in the REIT Merger. Generally, if a Prentiss shareholder has held its shares for more than
one year, the shareholder will recognize any gain as long-term capital gain. The deducibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. |
If the REIT Merger takes the form of the Reverse REIT Merger, a Prentiss shareholder will recognize taxable dividend income with respect to the Special Dividend. For further information concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the REIT Merger,
please see Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Mergers. Because the tax consequences of the REIT Merger are complex and may vary depending on the particular circumstances of a Prentiss shareholder, each Prentiss shareholder is urged to consult its own tax
advisors for a full understanding of the tax consequences of the REIT Merger. |
About the Special Meetings |
Q: | Where and when are the special meetings? |
A: | Brandywine common shareholders. The Brandywine special meeting will take place at The Four Seasons Hotel, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103 on December 21, 2005, at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time. |
Prentiss common shareholders. The Prentiss special meeting will take place at the 3890 West Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas, 75220 on December 21, 2005, at 10:00 a.m., Central time. |
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Q: | Who is entitled to vote? |
A: | Holders of record of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares, as applicable, at the close of business on November 15, 2005, the record date for the Brandywine and Prentiss special meetings, are entitled to vote at their respective special meetings. On that date,
there were 56,495,209 Brandywine common shares outstanding and entitled to vote and 49,254,716 Prentiss common shares outstanding and entitled to vote. |
Q: | How do I cast my vote? |
A: | If you are a Brandywine common shareholder or a Prentiss common shareholder of record, you may vote in person at your special meeting or submit a proxy for your special meeting. You can submit your proxy by completing, signing, dating and returning the enclosed proxy
card in the accompanying pre-addressed postage-paid envelope. You may also instruct the proxy holders how to vote by telephone or through the internet by following the instructions on your proxy card. |
Q: | What vote is required? |
A: | Brandywine common shareholders. Approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement requires the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the Brandywine common shares cast on this proposal at the Brandywine
special meeting, provided that the total votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the outstanding Brandywine common shares entitled to vote on this proposal. |
Prentiss common shareholders. The affirmative vote in person or by proxy of the holders of at least a majority of the Prentiss common shares outstanding and entitled to vote is required to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. |
Q: | Can I change my vote after I have granted my proxy? |
A: | Yes. You may revoke your proxy and change your vote at any time before your proxy is voted at your special meeting by following the procedures set forth under the applicable section of this joint proxy statement/prospectus entitled The Brandywine Special MeetingHow
You May Revoke Your Proxy Instructions and The Prentiss Special MeetingHow You May Revoke Your Proxy Instructions. |
Q: | What happens if I am a Brandywine common shareholder and I do not indicate how I want to vote, do not vote or abstain from voting on the proposal to issue Brandywine common shares? |
A: | If you are a Brandywine common shareholder and you sign and send in your proxy but do not indicate how you want to vote on this proposal, your proxy will be voted in favor of the proposal to approve the issuance of the Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated
by the merger agreement. If you do not submit your proxy and do not attend the Brandywine special meeting, your shares will not count towards a quorum, and if a quorum is present, will have the effect of a vote against the proposal unless more than 50% of the votes entitled to
be cast have been cast, in which case, it will have no effect on the vote. Abstentions will count towards a quorum and will be counted as votes cast. Accordingly, abstentions will have the effect of a vote against the proposal. |
Q: | What happens if I am a Prentiss common shareholder and I do not indicate how I want to vote, do not vote or abstain from voting on the REIT Merger? |
A: | If you are a Prentiss common shareholder and you sign and send in your proxy but do not indicate how you want to vote on the REIT Merger, your proxy will be voted in favor of the proposal to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. If you
do not submit your proxy and do not attend the Prentiss special meeting, your shares will not count towards a quorum, and if a quorum is present, your shares will have effect of a vote against the proposal. Abstentions will count towards a quorum but will not be counted as votes
cast and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal. |
Q: | If my shares are held in street name by my broker, will my broker vote my shares for me? |
A: | No. Your broker will NOT vote your Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares unless you tell the broker how to vote. To do so, you should follow the directions that your broker provides you. |
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Q: | Should I send in my Prentiss share certificates now? |
A: | No. If you hold any Prentiss share certificates evidencing Prentiss common shares, you will receive written instructions for exchanging those Prentiss share certificates for the REIT Merger consideration. You may not have received any stock certificates because your Prentiss
securities were directly registered. The written instructions you will receive will also advise you what to do if your securities were directly registered. |
How to Get More Information |
Q: | Who can answer my questions? |
A: | Brandywine common shareholders. Brandywine common shareholders who have questions about the REIT Merger or want additional copies of this joint proxy statement/prospectus or additional proxy cards should contact: Investor Relations, Brandywine Realty Trust, 401
Plymouth Road, Suite 500, Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462, Telephone (610) 325-5600. |
Prentiss common shareholders. Prentiss common shareholders who have questions about the REIT Merger or want additional copies of this joint proxy statement/prospectus or additional proxy cards should contact: Investor Relations, Prentiss Properties Trust, 3890 West
Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75220, telephone (214) 654-0886. |
Brandywine common shareholders and Prentiss common shareholders can also contact our proxy solicitation agent: |
MacKenzie Partners, Inc. 105 Madison Avenue New York, New York 10016 Call Toll-Free: (800) 322-2885 Call Collect: (212) 929-5500 Email: proxy@mackenziepartners.com |
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SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information from this joint proxy statement/prospectus. It does not contain all of the information that may be important to you. You should carefully read this entire joint proxy statement/prospectus and the other documents to which this joint proxy statement/prospectus refers for a more complete understanding of the matters being considered at the special meeting. In addition, we incorporate by reference important business and financial information about Brandywine and Prentiss into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Unless we have otherwise stated, all references in this joint proxy statement/prospectus to Brandywine are to Brandywine Realty Trust, all references to the Brandywine Operating Partnership are to Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P., all references to Prentiss are to Prentiss Properties Trust, all references to the Prentiss Operating Partnership are to Prentiss Properties Acquisition Partners, L.P. and all references to the Mergers are to the REIT Merger and the Partnership Merger. For more information about Brandywine and Prentiss, including where you can find the incorporated information free of charge, see the section of this joint proxy statement/prospectus entitled Where You Can Find More Information.
The Companies
Brandywine Realty Trust
401 Plymouth Road, Suite 500
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
(610) 325-5600
Brandywine is a self-administered and self-managed Maryland real estate investment trust, or REIT, active in acquiring, developing, redeveloping, leasing and managing office and industrial properties. As of September 30, 2005, Brandywine owned 227 office properties, 23 industrial facilities and one mixed-use property containing an aggregate of approximately 19.6 million net rentable square feet (excluding two office properties held by two consolidated real estate ventures in which Brandywine owns interests). In addition, as of September 30, 2005, Brandywine held interests in nine unconsolidated real estate ventures that it formed with third parties to develop or own commercial properties. In addition to managing properties that it owns, Brandywine manages approximately 3.6 million net rentable square feet in office, industrial and other properties for third parties. Brandywines properties are located in the office and industrial markets in and surrounding Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Wilmington, Delaware; Southern and Central New Jersey; and Richmond, Virginia.
Brandywine was organized and commenced operations in 1986 as a Maryland REIT. The Brandywine Operating Partnership was formed and commenced operations in 1996 as a Delaware limited partnership. Brandywine owns its assets and conducts its operations through the Brandywine Operating Partnership. Brandywine controls the Brandywine Operating Partnership as its sole general partner and, as of September 30, 2005, Brandywine owned a 96.6% interest in the Brandywine Operating Partnership.
If you want to find more information about Brandywine, please see the section entitled Where You Can Find More Information.
Brandywine Cognac I, LLC is a Maryland limited liability company and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of the Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P. Brandywine Cognac I, LLC was organized on September 28, 2005 solely for the purpose of effecting the REIT Merger. It has not carried on any activities other than in connection with the merger agreement. If the REIT Merger is completed through the Forward REIT Merger, then Prudential will receive an equity interest in this limited liability company immediately prior to the effective time of the REIT Merger in exchange for cash contribution. Immediately following the consummation of the Mergers, Prudentials interest in Brandywine Cognac I, LLC will be exchanged with a subsidiary of Brandywine for the Prudential Properties.
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Brandywine Cognac II, LLC is a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P. Brandywine Cognac II, LLC was organized on September 28, 2005 solely for the purpose of effecting the Partnership Merger. It has not carried on any activities other than in connection with the merger agreement.
Prentiss Properties Trust
3890 West Northwest Highway
Suite 400 Dallas, Texas 75220
(214) 654-0886
Prentiss is a self-administered and self-managed Maryland REIT. Prentiss acquires, owns, manages, leases, develops and builds primarily office properties throughout the United States. Prentiss is self-administered in that it provides its own administrative services, such as accounting, tax and legal, internally through its own employees. Prentiss is self-managed in that it internally provides all the management and maintenance services that its properties require through employees, such as, property managers, leasing professionals and engineers. Prentiss operates principally through Prentiss Operating Partnership and its subsidiaries, and two management service companies, Prentiss Properties Resources, Inc. and its subsidiaries and Prentiss Properties Management, L.P. Prentiss controls the Prentiss Operating Partnership as its sole indirect general partner and, as of September 30, 2005, Prentiss owned an approximately 96.6% interest in the Prentiss Operating Partnership.
As of September 30, 2005, Prentiss owned interests in a diversified portfolio of 137 primarily suburban Class A office and suburban industrial properties containing an aggregate of approximately 20.0 million net rentable square feet. This includes 100% of the net rentable square feet of Prentiss wholly-owned, consolidated joint venture and unconsolidated joint venture properties, which totaled 17.5 million, 1.4 million and 1.1 million, respectively. Prentiss pro rata share of net rentable square feet totals 18.4 million and includes 714,000 and 556,000 from Prentiss consolidated and unconsolidated joint venture properties, respectively.
In addition to managing properties that it owns, Prentiss manages approximately 6.9 million net rentable square feet in office, industrial and other properties for third parties.
The primary business of Prentiss is the ownership and operation of office properties throughout the United States. The Prentiss organization, which includes approximately 480 employees, consists of a corporate office located in Dallas, Texas and five regional offices each of which operates under the guidance of a member of the senior management team.
The following are the 10 markets in which Prentiss properties are located with the first market being the location of each regional office:
Region |
Market | ||
Mid-Atlantic |
Metropolitan Washington, DC | ||
Midwest |
Chicago, Suburban Detroit | ||
Southwest |
Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, Denver | ||
Northern California |
Oakland, Silicon Valley | ||
Southern California |
San Diego, Los Angeles |
The Prentiss board of trustees has unanimously approved the sale of its commercial office real estate holdings in the Midwest Region comprising Chicago, Illinois and suburban Detroit, Michigan. The Prentiss Chicago portfolio consisted of 16 office properties containing approximately 2.4 million square feet and four industrial properties containing approximately 681,934 square feet. Prentiss has one office property in Detroit, Michigan containing approximately 240,887 square feet. As of November 15, 2005, Prentiss had sold two office properties containing approximately 782,000 square feet, including One Northwestern Plaza and 123 N. Wacker Drive, and Prentiss is currently negotiating three contracts
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to sell six real estate projects in this region, subject to customary closing conditions and due diligence periods. As of November 15, Prentiss had also consummated the sale of the four building, 681,934 square foot industrial portfolio.
If you want to find more information about Prentiss, please see the section entitled Where You Can Find More Information.
The Special Meetings
Brandywine Special Meeting; Quorum and Required Vote (see page 43)
The Brandywine special meeting will be held at The Four Seasons Hotel, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103 at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time on December 21, 2005. At the Brandywine special meeting, holders of Brandywine common shares will consider and vote on a proposal to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
In accordance with the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange, or the NYSE, approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares requires the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the Brandywine common shares cast in person or by proxy on such proposal at the Brandywine special meeting, provided that the total votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the outstanding Brandywine common shares entitled to vote on the proposal.
The holders of a majority of the outstanding common shares entitled to vote at the Brandywine special meeting must be present in person or by proxy to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Brandywine special meeting. All Brandywine common shares represented at the Brandywine special meeting, including abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum.
Abstentions by holders of Brandywine common shares will be counted as votes cast and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
Under the listing requirements of the NYSE, brokers who hold Brandywine common shares in street name for a beneficial owner of those shares typically have the authority to vote in their discretion on routine proposals when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. However, brokers are not allowed to exercise their voting discretion with respect to the approval of matters that the NYSE determines to be non-routine, such as approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement, without specific instructions from the beneficial owner. These non-voted shares are referred to as broker non-votes. If your broker holds your Brandywine common shares in street name, your broker will vote your shares only if you provide instructions on how to vote by filling out the voter instruction form sent to you by your broker with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote with respect to the issuance of Brandywine common shares unless the holders of less than a majority of the votes entitled to be cast of the Brandywine common shares vote, in which case broker non-votes will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
Prentiss Special Meeting; Quorum and Required Vote (see page 45)
The Prentiss special meeting will be held at 3890 West Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas, 75220 at 10:00 a.m., Central time, on December 21, 2005. At the Prentiss special meeting, holders of Prentiss common shares will consider and vote on a proposal to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
Approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions requires the affirmative vote in person or by proxy of the holders of at least a majority of the Prentiss common shares outstanding and entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting.
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The holders of a majority of the Prentiss common shares outstanding and entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting must be present in person or by proxy to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Prentiss special meeting. All Prentiss common shares represented at the Prentiss special meeting, including abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum.
Abstentions by holders of Prentiss common shares will not be counted as votes cast and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
Broker non-votes, as discussed above, will not be counted as votes cast at the Prentiss special meeting and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
The REIT Merger
The merger agreement provides for the REIT Merger to be completed either through the Forward REIT Merger or Reverse REIT Merger, with the actual form dependent on whether Brandywine receives the private letter ruling as described in more detail in Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the MergersTax Consequences of the REIT Merger General The Private Letter Ruling prior to the closing of the REIT Merger. If Brandywine receives the private letter ruling then the REIT Merger will be completed through the Forward REIT Merger in which Prentiss is merged with and into Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, with Brandywine Cognac I, LLC surviving in the REIT Merger and the Prudential Acquisition will occur on the closing date of the Forward REIT Merger. If Brandywine does not receive the private letter ruling prior to the closing of the REIT Merger then the Prudential Acquisition will occur on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger and the Special Dividend will be declared and would be payable to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date and the REIT Merger will be completed through the Reverse REIT Merger in which Brandywine Cognac I, LLC is merged with and into Prentiss, with Prentiss surviving the REIT Merger as a subsidiary of the Brandywine Operating Partnership. If the Reverse REIT Merger is completed, with Prentiss as the survivor, then Prentiss will continue to be operated in conformity with the requirements for qualification as a REIT until such time as it has been liquidated for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Treatment of Prentiss Common Shares (see page 78)
In the REIT Merger, each Prentiss common share (including shares held by Prentiss in trust or otherwise designated for participants in and beneficiaries of the Prentiss deferred compensation plan, but excluding any other shares owned by Prentiss, Brandywine or their direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries) shall be converted into the right to receive:
| $21.50 in cash, subject to reduction by the per share amount of a Special Dividend if the Special Dividend is declared and paid prior to the REIT Merger, as discussed below; and |
| 0.69 of a Brandywine common share. |
No change will be made to the 0.69 exchange ratio for the exchange of Prentiss common shares for Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger. Because the exchange ratio is fixed, the value of the consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders in the REIT Merger will depend upon the market price of Brandywine common shares at the time of the REIT Merger.
You will not receive any fractional Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger. After taking into account all Brandywine common shares delivered by you, Brandywine will pay you cash in lieu of any fraction of a Brandywine common share in an amount equal to such fraction multiplied by the average closing prices of Brandywine common shares quoted on the NYSE for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger.
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As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into separate agreements with Prudential. These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of identified Prentiss properties, the Prudential Properties, that contain up to an aggregate of approximately 4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration of up to approximately $747.7 million. The master agreement between Prudential and Brandywine provides Prudential with a limited right to change the composition of the portfolio of Prudential Properties. Generally, Prudentials right to change the composition of the portfolio, either by electing not to purchase a property, or to substitute a property for another Prentiss property, is subject to the occurrence of an uncured adverse change at a property and is limited to properties that have, in aggregate, an agreed upon value of $150 million.
If Brandywine does not obtain a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, and the Prentiss board of trustees will declare a special cash dividend (which we refer to as the Special Dividend) that will be payable to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. In that case, the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger would be reduced. If Brandywine does obtain the private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger. In that case, the Special Dividend will not be declared and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will not be reduced and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger will not be reduced.
Until the REIT Merger is completed, Prentiss common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Prentiss board of trustees. Other than the Special Dividend, the merger agreement permits Prentiss to pay a regular quarterly cash dividend in an amount not to exceed $0.56 per Prentiss common share. In addition, Prentiss may pay, if necessary, a dividend in an amount equal to the minimum amount necessary to maintain the REIT status of Prentiss under the Internal Revenue Code. If any such dividend is declared and is in addition to the regular $0.56 per share quarterly dividend, then the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of such additional dividend.
Brandywine common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Brandywine board of trustees. The merger agreement permits Brandywine to pay regular quarterly cash dividends consistent with past practice.
The merger agreement provides that Brandywine and Prentiss will coordinate the declaration, record and payment dates of any dividends in respect of their respective common shares. This coordination reflects the intention of Brandywine and Prentiss that the holders of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares not receive more than one dividend, or fail to receive one dividend, for any single calendar quarter with respect to the shares they currently own and any Brandywine common shares received in the REIT Merger.
After the closing of the REIT Merger, former Prentiss common shareholders that receive Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger will receive the dividends payable to all holders of Brandywine common shares with a record date after the closing. Upon the closing of the REIT Merger, you will cease receiving any distributions or dividends on all Prentiss common shares you held before the REIT Merger, other than any distributions or dividends declared by Prentiss before the closing of the REIT Merger but not yet paid, including the dividend declared on November 9, 2005.
See Questions and Answers About the Mergers for a description of the dividends anticipated to be paid by Brandywine and Prentiss to holders of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares, respectively, for periods prior to the effective date of the REIT Merger.
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Treatment of Prentiss Options (see page 80)
Each outstanding and unexercised option to purchase Prentiss common shares granted under any Prentiss incentive plan, whether or not exercisable or vested, will be converted at the REIT Merger into a replacement option to purchase Brandywine common shares on the same terms and conditions under which it was originally issued (but taking into account any changes thereto, including the acceleration thereof, provided for in, or required or permitted by, the Prentiss incentive plans and applicable award agreements). Each new Brandywine option will be exercisable for a number of Brandywine common shares equal to (i) the number of Prentiss common shares subject to the Prentiss option to which such new Brandywine option relates multiplied by (ii) the Option Exchange Ratio (as defined below), rounded to the nearest share. The per share exercise price of each new Brandywine option shall equal (A) the per share exercise price of the Prentiss option to which such new Brandywine option relates divided by (B) the Option Exchange Ratio, rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent. The Option Exchange Ratio is equal to a fraction, the numerator of which is the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger consideration on the closing date of the REIT Merger, and the denominator of which is the average closing prices of Brandywine common shares for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger. That portion of the REIT Merger consideration that consists of Brandywine common shares will be valued to equal the average closing prices of Brandywine common shares for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger. If a Special Dividend is declared, the Option Exchange Ratio will be increased by an amount equal to the per share amount of the Special Dividend divided by the average of the closing prices of Brandywine common shares for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger.
Prior to the REIT Merger and subject to the terms of the Prentiss option plans, Prentiss may, in its sole discretion, take all actions necessary and appropriate to allow each holder of a Prentiss option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of the treatment provided above, to convert each Prentiss option so held into the right to receive an amount of cash at the effective time of the REIT Merger equal to the product of (i) the excess, if any, of the sum of (1) the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger consideration (computed as described in the preceding paragraph) on the closing date of the REIT Merger and (2) the amount of any Special Dividend over the per share exercise price of such Prentiss option and (ii) the number of Prentiss common shares subject to such Prentiss option (such payment to be net of all applicable withholding taxes).
Recommendation of Brandywines Board of Trustees and Brandywines Reasons for the REIT Merger (see page 52)
Brandywines board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and in the best interests of Brandywine and its shareholders.
The Brandywine board of trustees unanimously recommends that Brandywine common shareholders vote FOR approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
You should refer to the factors considered by Brandywines board of trustees in making its decision to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and to recommend to Brandywines shareholders the approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
On the record date for the Brandywine special meeting, a total of 948,414, or approximately 1.68%, of the outstanding Brandywine common shares entitled to vote at the Brandywine special meeting were held by Brandywine trustees, executive officers and their respective affiliates, all of whom Brandywine expects will vote their shares for the approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
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Recommendation of the Prentiss Board of Trustees and reasons of Prentiss for the REIT Merger (see page 55)
The Prentiss board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Prentiss and its shareholders.
The Prentiss board of trustees unanimously recommends that Prentiss common shareholders vote FOR approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
You should refer to the factors considered by the Prentiss board of trustees in making its decision to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and to recommend to the Prentiss common shareholders the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
On the record date for the Prentiss special meeting, a total of 2,558,621, or approximately 5.2%, of the outstanding Prentiss common shares entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting were held by Prentiss trustees, executive officers and their respective affiliates.
As of the record date, Michael V. Prentiss, the Chairman of the Prentiss board of trustees, and Thomas F. August, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Prentiss, held a total of 2,081,201 or approximately 4.2%, of the outstanding Prentiss common shares entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting and have agreed to vote all Prentiss common shares held by them in favor of the REIT Merger. Prentiss expects that all of its other trustees, executive officers and their respective affiliates will also vote their shares in favor of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
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The Partnership Merger
Treatment of Prentiss Operating Partnership Common Units (see page 79)
At the effective time of the Partnership Merger, each issued and outstanding Prentiss Operating Partnership common unit (excluding common units owned or held by Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership, Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, Parent, the general partner of Prentiss Operating Partnership or Prentiss Operating Partnership or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries which shall remain issued and outstanding and unchanged by the Partnership Merger) shall be converted into the right to receive Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units. If the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration is not reduced, each Prentiss common unit will be converted into the right to receive 1.3799 Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units. If the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration is reduced because the Prentiss board of trustees declares either the Special Dividend, or a pre-closing dividend to maintain the REIT status of Prentiss that is in excess of the $0.56 per share quarterly dividend, then the 1.3799 exchange ratio will be adjusted to equal the sum of (i) 0.69 plus (ii) the quotient obtained by dividing the per share amount of the cash consideration payable in the REIT Merger by $31.1594. We refer to the exchange ratio, as it may be adjusted, as the Common Interest Exchange Ratio.
The Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units to be issued in the Partnership Merger will, at any time and from time to time after the Partnership Merger, be exchangeable, at the request of the holder of such units, for Brandywine common shares, or for cash, at Brandywines option, on a one-for-one basis.
Prentiss is not required to obtain the approval of the holders of Prentiss units of Prentiss Operating Partnership with respect to the REIT Merger, the Partnership Merger, the merger agreement or the related transactions.
The Optional Partnership Election (see page 79)
In lieu of receiving Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units in the Partnership Merger, holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units may elect to receive the REIT Merger consideration by converting their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units into Prentiss common shares immediately prior to the REIT Merger. Each Prentiss common share issued upon such conversion would then be converted in the REIT Merger into the right to receive the consideration payable to holders of Prentiss common shares in the REIT Merger.
Interests of the Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the Mergers (see page 70)
In considering the recommendation of the Prentiss board of trustees with respect to the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, you should be aware that some of the Prentiss executive officers and trustees have interests in the Mergers that are different from, or in addition to, the interests of other Prentiss common shareholders. These interests include:
| the appointment of Mr. Prentiss and Mr. August, both of whom are current members of the Prentiss board of trustees, to the Brandywine board of trustees upon completion of the Mergers; |
| the receipt of change in control payments of approximately $12.1 million in the aggregate (excluding gross-up payments, if any) by Prentiss executive officers under existing employment arrangements; |
| the acceleration and conversion of all vested and unvested Prentiss options into the right to receive a payment in the form Brandywine common shares; |
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| the ability of Prentiss to allow each holder of a Prentiss option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of receiving Brandywine options, to convert each Prentiss option so held into the right to receive an amount of cash at the effective time of the REIT
Merger; |
| the vesting of restricted shares under Prentiss incentive plans and the impact of the Mergers on amounts held in Prentiss deferred compensation plans; |
| on October 3, 2005, Prentiss entered into two separate change of control severance protection plans in connection with the REIT Merger, one with respect to Prentiss hourly and salaried non-officer employees and the other with respect to Prentiss key employees; |
| on November 1, 2005, Brandywine entered into employment agreements with the following four executives of Prentiss: Robert K. Wiberg, Daniel K. Cushing, Christopher M. Hipps and Michael J. Cooper. In addition, Brandywine intends to enter into employment
agreements with Gregory S. Imhoff and Scott W. Fordham. These agreements will not become effective for any purpose unless and until the REIT Merger is consummated; |
| in connection with the REIT Merger, the Prentiss compensation committee created a bonus pool of up to $10 million to provide incentives to Prentiss employees (other than the Chief Executive Officer) with respect to the consummation of the Mergers. Of the total bonus
pool, $8 million has been allocated to specific Prentiss executive officers, payable upon closing of the REIT Merger if such officers remain employed by Prentiss at the closing of the REIT Merger unless previously decided otherwise by Prentiss compensation committee
or the President of Prentiss; |
| the continued indemnification of current trustees and officers of Prentiss under the merger agreement and the provision of trustees and officers liability insurance to these individuals; and |
| the entry into the voting agreements and registration rights agreement described below. |
In addition, certain trustees and officers of Prentiss who own Prentiss Operating Partnership common units will be able to defer their taxable gains in their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units by receiving Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units in exchange for their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units. The REIT Merger, in contrast, is a taxable transaction and, as a result, holders of Prentiss common shares other than certain tax-exempt holders will be required to pay tax on gains arising from exchanging their Prentiss common shares for the REIT Merger consideration.
The Prentiss board of trustees was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in approving the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and in making their recommendation.
Voting Agreements (see page 98)
Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August have each entered into a voting agreement with Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership which require each of them to vote all Prentiss common shares beneficially owned by each of them as of the record date for the Prentiss special meeting in favor of the merger proposal (and against competing proposals).
As of the record date for the Prentiss special meeting, Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August owned a total of 2,081,201 Prentiss common shares, representing approximately 4.2% of the outstanding Prentiss common shares.
Registration Rights Agreement (see page 99)
Brandywine has agreed to assume identified registration rights obligations of Prentiss after consummation of the REIT Merger, including the registration right of holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units. Brandywine has agreed that holders of registration rights under such
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agreements shall have substantially the same rights with respect to the registration of the Brandywine common shares that such holders may receive in the REIT Merger or upon conversion of securities received in the Mergers.
Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership and Michael V. Prentiss entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which Brandywine agreed to register the Brandywine common shares that Mr. Prentiss receives in the REIT Merger and upon conversion of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units received in the Partnership Merger. See The Merger AgreementMichael V. Prentiss Registration Rights Agreement.
Brandywine also agreed to use good faith commercially reasonable efforts to file, on or within thirty (30) days following the consummation of the REIT Merger, a shelf registration statement to register the resale of Brandywine common shares issuable by Brandywine upon the conversion or redemption of any Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units received in the Partnership Merger.
Opinions of Financial Advisors
Opinion of Brandywines Financial Advisor (see page 57)
J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., which we refer to as JPMorgan, has provided its opinion to Brandywines board of trustees dated as of October 2, 2005 that, as of that date, and subject to and based on the qualifications and assumptions set forth in its opinion, the Brandywine Consideration (as defined on page 57) to be paid by Brandywine in the proposed Transactions (as defined on page 57) for the Pro Forma Company (as defined on page 57) was fair, from a financial point of view, to Brandywine. The full text of JPMorgans opinion is attached as Annex D to this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Brandywine urges its shareholders to read that opinion in its entirety. JPMorgans opinion is addressed to the board of trustees of Brandywine, is directed only to the Brandywine Consideration to be paid in the proposed Transactions for the Pro Forma Company and does not constitute a recommendation to any shareholder of Brandywine as to how that shareholder should vote at the Brandywine special meeting and should not be relied upon by any Brandywine shareholder as such. The summary of the opinion of JPMorgan set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of that opinion. Pursuant to an engagement letter between Brandywine and JPMorgan, Brandywine has agreed to pay JPMorgan a fee a substantial portion of which is payable upon completion of the Transactions. Please see The Mergers Opinion of Brandywines Financial Advisor, JPMorgan.
Opinion of Prentiss Financial Advisor (see page 65)
The Prentiss board of trustees received an opinion from Lazard Frères & Co. LLC, its financial advisor, that based on, and subject to the various assumptions and qualifications set forth in such opinion, as of the date of such opinion, the per share consideration of $21.50 in cash, plus 0.69 Brandywine shares to be paid to Prentiss common shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement (including, if the Reverse REIT Merger is to be consummated pursuant to the merger agreement, the payment of the Special Dividend) is fair from a financial point of view to the public holders of Prentiss common shares. The full text of Lazards written opinion dated October 3, 2005 is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Annex E. Prentiss common shareholders are encouraged to read the opinion carefully in its entirety, as well as the description of the analyses and assumptions on which the opinion was based and the limitations on the reviews undertaken in connection with the opinion. Lazard provided its opinion to the Prentiss board of trustees to assist the board in its evaluation of the merger consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement. The opinion does not address any other aspect of the REIT Merger and does not constitute a recommendation to any shareholder as to how to vote at the Prentiss special meeting and should not be relied upon by any Prentiss shareholder as such. Pursuant to an engagement letter between Prentiss and Lazard, Prentiss has agreed to pay Lazard a fee which is payable upon completion of the REIT merger. Please see The MergersOpinion of Prentiss Financial Advisor, Lazard Frères & Co. LLC.
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The Merger Agreement
The merger agreement is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Annex A. We encourage you to read the merger agreement because it is the legal document that governs the Mergers. The merger agreement has been included in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus to provide you with information regarding its terms. It is not intended to provide you with any factual information about Brandywine or Prentiss.
What We Need to Do to Complete the Mergers (see page 92)
Brandywine and Prentiss will complete the Mergers only if the conditions set forth in the merger agreement are satisfied or, in some cases, waived. These conditions include:
| the approval by Prentiss common shareholders of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions; |
| the approval by Brandywine common shareholders of the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement; |
| the approval for listing on the New York Stock Exchange of the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement (which approval was obtained on November 11, 2005); |
| the absence of legal prohibitions to the Mergers; |
| the continued effectiveness of the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part; |
| the accuracy of each companys representations and warranties; |
| the performance by each company of its obligations under the merger agreement; |
| the absence of any material adverse effect on Brandywine or Prentiss between October 3, 2005 and the date on which the Mergers are completed; and |
| the receipt of legal opinions from counsel to each company as to each companys qualification as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code. |
Prentiss Prohibited from Soliciting Other Offers (see page 87)
Prentiss has agreed not to solicit, initiate encourage or knowingly take any other action to facilitate any inquiries or other action by a third party that could reasonably be expected to lead to a competing transaction, including:
| any merger or business combination (other than the REIT Merger discussed in this joint proxy statement/prospectus) involving Prentiss; |
| any sale of 30% or more of the assets of Prentiss; or |
| any tender offer or exchange offer for 30% or more of the voting power of outstanding equity securities of Prentiss. |
Termination of the Merger Agreement (see page 93)
Brandywine and Prentiss can agree to terminate the merger agreement at any time, even after shareholder approvals have been obtained. In addition, either Brandywine or Prentiss can terminate the merger agreement if any of the following occurs:
| the REIT Merger is not completed on or before April 1, 2006, other than due to a breach of the merger agreement by the party seeking to terminate the merger agreement; |
| a legal prohibition to the REIT Merger has become final and non-appealable; |
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| a breach by the other party of any of its representations, warranties or agreements under the merger agreement such that a condition to completing the REIT Merger cannot be satisfied by April 1, 2006; or |
| the necessary approval of the other partys shareholders is not obtained at the other partys special meeting. |
Prentiss can also terminate the merger agreement if Prentiss receives an offer for a superior competing transaction as long as (i) Prentiss has complied fully with its non-solicitation obligations under the merger agreement, (ii) within three business days after Prentiss notifies Brandywine of a superior competing transaction, Brandywine has not made a counter proposal that the Prentiss board of trustees determines in good faith is more favorable to Prentiss common shareholders than the superior competing transaction and (iii) the Prentiss board of trustees approves or recommends the superior competing transaction and determines that such action would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of the duties of the trustees of Prentiss to Prentiss and its shareholders under law. In such case, Prentiss must pay Brandywine a $60 million termination fee plus expenses of up to $6 million. Prentiss can also terminate the merger agreement if Brandywine fails to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to approve the issuance of the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
Brandywine can also terminate the merger agreement if (i) the Prentiss board of trustees withdraws or modifies its recommendation of the REIT Merger to Prentiss common shareholders in a manner adverse to Brandywine or approves, recommends or enters into a superior competing transaction, as defined in the merger agreement, (ii) Prentiss shall have failed to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to vote on the REIT Merger and the merger agreement or (iii) Prentiss shall have intentionally and materially breached any of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant contained in the merger agreement.
Termination Fees and Expenses (see page 94)
If the merger agreement is terminated under specified circumstances involving a competing transaction, Prentiss will be required to pay Brandywine a termination fee of $60 million plus transaction expenses of up to $6 million.
If the merger agreement is terminated under other specified circumstances not associated with the termination fee of $60 million, either Prentiss or Brandywine may be required to pay the other a termination fee of $12.5 million plus expenses of up to $6 million and in certain circumstances Brandywine would additionally be required to reimburse Prentiss for unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses and any lost deposits related to Prentiss termination of a proposed loan related to its Barton Skyway property.
The $12.5 million fee would be payable by Brandywine to Prentiss if (x) the Brandywine shareholders do not approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement and the Prentiss shareholders approve the REIT Merger and the merger agreement, (y) Brandywine fails to hold the Brandywine special meeting or (z) the REIT Merger has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and Brandywines failure to comply with its obligations under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the REIT Merger not having been consummated by such date.
Similarly, the $12.5 million fee would be payable by Prentiss to Brandywine if (x) the Prentiss shareholders do not approve the REIT Merger and the merger agreement and the Brandywine shareholders approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement or (y) the REIT Merger has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and the failure of Prentiss to comply with its obligations under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the REIT Merger not having been consummated by such date. Prentiss would not be obligated to pay to Brandywine the $12.5 million fee in any circumstances in which Prentiss is also obligated to pay to Brandywine the $60 million termination fee.
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Other Information
The Prudential Acquisition (see page 101)
As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into separate agreements with Prudential. These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of the Prudential Properties.
If Brandywine does not obtain a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss will cause Prentiss Operating Partnership to authorize a distribution payable to holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units on such date and the Prentiss board of trustees will declare the Special Dividend and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger would be reduced. If Brandywine does obtain the private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger. In that case, the Special Dividend will not be declared and the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will not be reduced and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger would not be reduced. The amount of the Prentiss Operating Partnership distribution, if authorized, and the Special Dividend, if declared, will be funded from net cash proceeds of the Prudential Acquisition.
Material Federal Income Tax Consequences (see page 111)
The exchange of Prentiss common shares for the applicable REIT Merger consideration will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, a Prentiss shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes equal to the difference, if any, between the value of the applicable REIT Merger consideration the shareholder receives and the shareholders adjusted tax basis in the Prentiss common shares exchanged in the REIT Merger. Generally, if a Prentiss shareholder has held its shares for more than one year, the shareholder will recognize any gain as long-term capital gain. The deducibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.
The exchange of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units for Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units in the Partnership Merger is intended to be a tax-deferred transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
If the REIT Merger takes the form of the Reverse REIT Merger, a Prentiss shareholder will recognize taxable dividend income with respect to the Special Dividend. For further information concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the REIT Merger, please see Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Mergers. Because the tax consequences of the REIT Merger are complex and may vary depending on the particular circumstances of a Prentiss shareholder, each Prentiss shareholder is urged to consult its own tax advisors for a full understanding of the tax consequences of the REIT Merger.
Merger Financing (see page 75)
Brandywine has received a commitment from affiliates of JPMorgan for (i) a 364-day term loan in the amount of $750 million, (ii) an interim term loan in the amount of $240 million, and (iii) a back-stop revolving credit facility in the amount of $600 million. Brandywine expects to use the net proceeds from borrowings under the 364-day term loan to fund a portion of the cash component of the REIT Merger consideration. The interim term loan will only be drawn if (i) certain properties located in the Mid-west anticipated to be sold by Prentiss are not sold prior to the consummation of the REIT Merger, or (ii) if a portion of the Prudential Properties are not sold to Prudential. The interim term loan will be subject to mandatory pre-payment out of the proceeds of any sale of the Mid-west properties. The interim term loan will have a term of 60 days. The back-stop revolving credit facility will only be put into place if Brandywine is not successful in completing, prior to the consummation of the REIT Merger, an amendment and restatement of Brandywines existing revolving credit facility on terms
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which allow for the consummation of the REIT Merger and are otherwise satisfactory to Brandywine. The back-stop revolving credit facility will have a term of 60 days from the closing of the REIT Merger.
Dissenters Rights of Appraisal (see page 76)
Brandywine common shareholders do not have dissenters rights of appraisal in connection with the Mergers.
Prentiss common shareholders do not have dissenters rights of appraisal in connection with the Mergers.
Regulatory Matters (see page 76)
Neither Brandywine or Prentiss is aware of any material federal or state regulatory requirements that must be complied with or approvals that must be obtained by Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership, Prentiss, or Prentiss Operating Partnership in connection with either the REIT Merger or the Partnership Merger.
Stock Exchange Listing and Related Matters (see page 76)
Brandywine will list the Brandywine common shares to be issued to holders of shares of Prentiss common shares in connection with the REIT Merger on the NYSE. After the closing of the REIT Merger, there will be no further trading in Prentiss common shares and Prentiss will delist its common shares from the NYSE and will file a Form 15 to deregister its common shares for purposes of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Accounting Treatment (see page 76)
The Mergers will be treated as a purchase for financial accounting purposes. This means that Brandywine will record the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values at the time the Mergers are completed.
Differences in Rights of Brandywine and Prentiss Common Shareholders (see page 130)
The rights of Prentiss common shareholders are currently governed by Maryland law and Prentiss Declaration of Trust and Bylaws. Following the REIT Merger, the rights of former Prentiss common shareholders who receive Brandywine common shares will be governed by Maryland law and Brandywines Declaration of Trust and Bylaws. There are important differences in the rights of Prentiss common shareholders and Brandywine common shareholders with respect to voting requirements and various other matters.
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Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data of Brandywine
The following information is provided to assist you in your analysis of the financial aspects of the Mergers. This information has been derived from Brandywines audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2000 through 2004 and from Brandywines unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and 2005.
This information is only a summary. You should read it along with Brandywines historical financial statements and related notes and the section titled Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in Brandywines annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and other information on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Please see Where You Can Find More Information beginning on page 137. Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of results for the year ending December 31, 2005. For a discussion of certain factors that may materially affect the comparability of the selected historical financial information or cause the data reflected herein not be indicative of Brandywines future financial condition or results of operations, please see Risk Factors.
Years Ended December 31, | Nine Months Ended September 30, |
|||||||||||||||||||||
2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands, except per share amounts and number of properties) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Results |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
$ | 323,592 | $ | 301,464 | $ | 286,712 | $ | 265,838 | $ | 249,141 | $ | 289,766 | $ | 228,108 | ||||||||
Income from continuing operations including gain on sale |
57,604 | 75,832 | 47,643 | 19,462 | 38,953 | 32,171 | 49,373 | |||||||||||||||
Net income |
60,303 | 86,678 | 62,984 | 33,722 | 52,158 | 34,139 | 51,776 | |||||||||||||||
Income allocated to Common Shares |
55,083 | 54,174 | 51,078 | 21,816 | 40,252 | 28,145 | 48,904 | |||||||||||||||
Income from continuing operations including gain on sale per Common Share |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
$ | 1.09 | $ | 1.14 | $ | 0.97 | $ | 0.20 | $ | 0.75 | $ | 0.47 | $ | 1.02 | ||||||||
Diluted |
1.09 | $ | 1.14 | $ | 0.96 | $ | 0.20 | $ | 0.75 | $ | 0.47 | $ | 1.02 | |||||||||
Cash distributions declared per Common Share |
1.76 | $ | 1.76 | $ | 1.76 | $ | 1.70 | $ | 1.62 | $ | 1.32 | $ | 1.32 | |||||||||
Balance Sheet Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate investments, net of accumulated depreciation |
$ | 2,363,865 | $ | 1,695,355 | $ | 1,745,981 | $ | 1,812,909 | $ | 1,674,341 | 2,521,778 | 2,341,286 | ||||||||||
Total assets |
2,633,984 | 1,855,776 | 1,919,288 | 1,960,203 | 1,821,103 | 2,793,915 | 2,587,887 | |||||||||||||||
Total indebtedness |
1,306,669 | 867,659 | 1,004,729 | 1,009,165 | 866,202 | 1,481,251 | 1,277,717 | |||||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
1,444,116 | 950,431 | 1,097,793 | 1,108,213 | 923,961 | 1,630,716 | 1,385,496 | |||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
42,866 | 133,488 | 135,052 | 143,834 | 144,974 | 38,333 | 43,592 | |||||||||||||||
Beneficiaries equity |
1,147,002 | 771,857 | 686,443 | 708,156 | 752,168 | 1,124,866 | 1,158,799 | |||||||||||||||
Other Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from: |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating activities |
153,183 | 118,793 | 128,836 | 152,040 | 103,123 | 103,766 | 100,710 | |||||||||||||||
Investing activities |
(682,945 | ) | (34,068 | ) | 5,038 | (123,682 | ) | (32,372 | ) | (206,150 | ) | (634,716 | ) | |||||||||
Financing activities |
536,556 | (102,974 | ) | (120,532 | ) | (30,939 | ) | (60,403 | ) | 110,378 | 535,317 | |||||||||||
Property Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties owned at year end |
246 | 234 | 238 | 270 | 250 | 251 | 247 | |||||||||||||||
Net rentable square feet owned at year end |
18,172 | 17,093 | 16,958 | 16,928 | 18,828 | 18,626 | 18,327 |
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Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data of Prentiss
The following information is provided to assist you in your analysis of the financial aspects of the Mergers. This information has been derived from Prentiss audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2000 through 2004 and from Prentiss unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and 2005. This information is only a summary. You should read it along with Prentiss historical financial statements and related notes and the section entitled Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in Prentiss annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and other information on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Please see Where You Can Find More Information beginning on page 137. Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of results for the year ending December 31, 2005. For a discussion of certain factors that may materially affect the comparability of the selected historical financial information or cause the data reflected herein not be indicative of Prentiss future financial condition or results of operations, please see Risk Factors.
Years Ended December 31, | Nine Months Ended September 30, |
|||||||||||||||||||||
2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands, except per share amounts and number of properties) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Results |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
$ | 309,996 | $ | 274,877 | $ | 250,238 | $ | 226,223 | $ | 220,589 | $ | 254,659 | $ | 228,834 | ||||||||
Income from continuing operations including gain on sale |
43,259 | 46,350 | 39,347 | 63,291 | 26,130 | 23,738 | 35,177 | |||||||||||||||
Net income |
62,423 | 59,417 | 74,281 | 102,466 | 69,585 | 86,334 | 48,345 | |||||||||||||||
Income allocated to Common Shares |
52,371 | 50,965 | 65,923 | 94,579 | 62,434 | 80,527 | 40,406 | |||||||||||||||
Income from continuing operations including gain on sale per Common Share |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.75 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.81 | $ | 1.60 | $ | 0.52 | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.61 | ||||||||
Diluted |
$ | 0.75 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.80 | $ | 1.55 | $ | 0.52 | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.61 | ||||||||
Cash distributions declared per Common Share |
$ | 2.240 | $ | 2.240 | $ | 2.215 | $ | 2.090 | $ | 1.895 | $ | 1.680 | $ | 1.680 | ||||||||
Balance Sheet Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate investments, net of accumulated depreciation |
$ | 1,896,357 | $ | 1,841,735 | $ | 1,753,236 | $ | 1,660,690 | $ | 1,743,064 | $ | 1,749,915 | 1,842,843 | |||||||||
Total assets |
2,333,539 | 2,199,093 | 2,122,289 | 2,030,593 | 2,117,875 | 2,545,786 | 2,250,948 | |||||||||||||||
Total indebtedness |
1,191,911 | 1,029,035 | 1,011,027 | 907,734 | 1,007,800 | 1,356,630 | 1,115,534 | |||||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
1,329,168 | 1,162,229 | 1,141,731 | 1,024,607 | 1,132,858 | 1,485,458 | 1,243,636 | |||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
60,782 | 124,623 | 136,325 | 186,186 | 178,753 | 87,118 | 57,648 | |||||||||||||||
Beneficiaries equity |
943,589 | 912,241 | 844,233 | 819,800 | 806,264 | 973,210 | 949,664 | |||||||||||||||
Other Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from: |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating activities |
158,249 | 133,625 | 160,611 | 160,424 | 161,961 | 92,104 | 105,667 | |||||||||||||||
Investing activities |
(79,004 | ) | (142,304 | ) | (160,505 | ) | (52,854 | ) | (173,211 | ) | (122,736 | ) | (21,287 | ) | ||||||||
Financing activities |
(76,604 | ) | 9,544 | (871 | ) | (107,177 | ) | 3,389 | 30,859 | (83,369 | ) | |||||||||||
Property Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties owned at year end |
124 | 128 | 128 | 136 | 164 | 130 | 122 | |||||||||||||||
Net rentable square feet owned at year end |
18,172 | 17,093 | 16,958 | 16,723 | 17,583 | 18,868 | 17,650 |
23
Selected Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Financial and Other Data
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial and other data have been prepared based on certain pro forma adjustments to the historical consolidated financial statements of Brandywine and Prentiss as of September 30, 2005 and for the nine months then ended and for the year ended December 31, 2004 to give effect for certain material transactions already completed or contemplated by Brandywine and Prentiss separately or as part of the REIT Merger and the Prudential Acquisition including the following:
For Brandywine Realty Trust
| The impact of material acquisitions completed in 2004/2005, including the acquisition of the Rubenstein portfolio in September of 2004; |
| Financing and capital transactions (including equity offerings) completed in connection with the financing of these acquisitions; and |
|
| Redemption of Brandywine preferred securities in 2004. |
For Prentiss Properties Trust
| The impact of material acquisitions completed in 2004/2005; |
| Completed dispositions of Prentiss properties including certain of the properties in Chicago, Illinois; Southfield, Michigan; and Dallas, Texas to which Prentiss had committed to a plan to sell; |
|
| Financing and capital transactions completed in connection with financing these acquisitions or the use of proceeds from sales; |
| Certain reclassifications related to the Prentiss historical financial statement presentations which have been made to conform with Brandywine Realty Trusts financial statement presentation; and |
|
| Redemption of Prentiss preferred securities in 2004. |
For the REIT Merger and the Prudential Acquisition
| The Prudential Acquisition; and |
| The effects of the REIT Merger including contemplated financing transactions, the issuance of Brandywine common shares and Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A common units, the assumption of debt and the application of Purchase Accounting. |
For more detail concerning the adjustments relating to these transactions see Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements. The historical consolidated financial statements of Brandywine and Prentiss used to prepare these pro forma financial statements are contained in each companys respective annual reports on Form 10-K and/or Form 10-K/A, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and/or Form 10-Q/A, current reports on Form 8-K and other information on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated by reference into this document. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by, the notes thereto and the historical consolidated financial statements of both Brandywine and Prentiss, including the respective notes thereto, which are incorporated by reference in this document.
The accompanying unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet data as of September 30, 2005 has been prepared as if the completed or proposed transactions described above occurred as of that date. The accompanying unaudited pro forma consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and for the year ended December 31, 2004 have been prepared as if the completed or proposed transactions described above had occurred as of January 1, 2004. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements do not purport to be indicative of the financial position or results of operations that would actually have been achieved had the completed or proposed transactions described above occurred on the dates indicated or which may be achieved in the future.
24
In the opinion of Brandywines management, all significant adjustments necessary to reflect the effects of the completed or proposed transactions described above that can be factually supported within the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations covering the preparation of pro forma financial statements have been made. The pro forma adjustments and the purchase price allocation as presented are based on estimates and certain information that is currently available to Brandywines management. Such pro forma adjustments and the purchase price allocation could change as additional information becomes available, as estimates are refined or as additional events occur. Brandywines management does not anticipate that there will be any significant changes in the total purchase price as presented in these unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements are not necessarily indicative of what the actual combined financial position or results of operations would have been had the completed or proposed transactions described above been completed on the dates indicated above, nor do they give effect to (i) any transaction other than those described above (ii) the results of operations of Brandywine or Prentiss since September 30, 2005, (iii) certain cost savings and one-time charges expected to result from the transactions described above which have not already been completed and whose effects reflected in the historical financial statements of Brandywine or Prentiss (iv) the results of final valuations of the assets and liabilities of Prentiss, including property and intangible assets.
We are currently developing plans to integrate the operations of the companies, which may involve various costs and other charges that may be material. We will also revise the allocation of the purchase price when additional information becomes available. Accordingly, the pro forma consolidated financial information do not purport to be indicative of the financial position or results of operations as of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, as of the effective date of the Mergers and the Prudential Acquisition, any period ending at the effective date of the Mergers and the Prudential Acquisition or as of any other future date or period.
The foregoing matters could cause both Brandywines pro forma financial position and results of operations, and Brandywines actual future financial position and results of operations, to differ materially from those presented in the following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
25
Pro Forma for the | Pro Forma for the | ||||||
Year Ended | Nine Months Ended | ||||||
December 31, 2004 | September 30, 2005 | ||||||
(in thousands, except per share amounts) | |||||||
Revenue: |
|||||||
Rents |
$ | 565,387 | $ | 425,788 | |||
Tenant Reimbursements |
75,956 | 57,395 | |||||
Other |
30,639 | 25,370 | |||||
Total revenue |
671,982 | 508,553 | |||||
Operating Expenses |
|||||||
Property operating expenses |
195,372 | 150,857 | |||||
Real estate taxes |
63,305 | 49,867 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization |
207,967 | 158,059 | |||||
Administrative expenses |
26,903 | 25,685 | |||||
Total operating expenses |
493,547 | 384,468 | |||||
Operating income (loss) |
178,435 | 124,085 | |||||
Other Income (Expense): |
|||||||
Interest Income |
3,228 | 2,407 | |||||
Interest Expense |
(153,747 | ) | (117,352 | ) | |||
Loss on investment in securities |
(420 | ) | | ||||
Loss from impairment of mortgage loan |
(2,900 | ) | | ||||
Equity in income of real estate ventures |
4,553 | 4,364 | |||||
Net gain on sale of real estate |
4,197 | 4,640 | |||||
Income (loss) before minority interest |
33,346 | 18,144 | |||||
Minority Interest attributable to continuing operations |
(1,310 | ) | (738 | ) | |||
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
32,036 | 17,406 | |||||
Income allocated to Preferred Shares |
(9,720 | ) | (5,994 | ) | |||
Income (loss) allocated to Common Shares |
$ | 22,316 | $ | 11,412 | |||
Per share data: |
|||||||
Basic earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 0.26 | 0.13 | ||||
Diluted earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 0.25 | 0.13 | ||||
Weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding |
87,369 | 89,816 | |||||
Weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding |
87,606 | 90,050 | |||||
Balance sheet data (at end of period): |
|||||||
Operating properties |
N/A | 4,690,723 | |||||
Accumulated depreciation |
N/A | (373,127 | ) | ||||
Total assets |
N/A | 4,317,596 | |||||
Mortgage notes payable |
N/A | 1,123,588 | |||||
Unsecured notes |
N/A | 636,582 | |||||
Unsecured credit facility |
N/A | 1,519,388 | |||||
Minority Interest |
N/A | 148,352 | |||||
Total beneficiaries equity |
N/A | 2,131,637 |
26
Comparative Per Share Data
The following table presents, for the periods indicated, selected historical per share data for the Brandywine common share and Prentiss common shares, as well as unaudited pro forma per share amounts for the Brandywine common shares and unaudited pro forma per share equivalent amounts for the Prentiss common shares, assuming (i) the issuance of 34,081,600 Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger and the reservation of 1,753,808 Brandywine common shares for issuance upon conversion of the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units issued in the Partnership Merger and (ii) the payment of the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration, after payment of the Special Dividend, which, together with the cash expected to be paid assuming conversion of all of the outstanding Prentiss options to cash in the REIT Merger, totals approximately $450.2 million. The pro forma amounts included in the table below are presented as if the Mergers had been effective for the periods presented, have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and are based on the purchase method of accounting.
You should read this information in conjunction with, and the information is qualified in its entirety by, the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes of Brandywine and Prentiss incorporated into this joint proxy statement/prospectus by reference and the unaudited pro forma combined financial information and accompanying discussions and notes beginning on page F-1. Please see Where You Can Find More Information beginning on page 137. The pro forma amounts in the table below are presented for informational purposes only. You should not rely on the pro forma amounts as being indicative of the financial position or results of operations of the combined company that would have actually occurred had the Mergers been effective during the periods presented or of the future financial position or future results of operations of the combined company. The combined financial information as of or for the periods presented may have been different had the companies actually been combined as of or during those periods.
As of or for the Year Ended December 31, 2004 |
As of or for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005 (unaudited) |
||||||
BrandywineHistorical |
|||||||
Income Per Share from Continuing Operations: |
|||||||
Basic |
$ | 1.10 | $ | 0.47 | |||
Diluted |
1.09 | 0.47 | |||||
Dividends Per Share |
1.76 | 1.32 | |||||
Book Value Per Share at Period End |
$ | 18.80 | $ | 18.11 | |||
PrentissHistorical |
|||||||
Income Per Share from Continuing Operations including gain on sale: |
|||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.75 | $ | 0.48 | |||
Diluted |
0.75 | 0.48 | |||||
Dividends Per Share |
2.24 | 1.68 | |||||
Book Value Per Share at Period End |
$ | 18.75 | $ | 19.42 | |||
BrandywineUnaudited Pro Forma |
|||||||
Income Per Share from Continuing Operations: |
|||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.26 | $ | 0.13 | |||
Diluted |
0.25 | 0.13 | |||||
Dividends Per Share |
1.76 | 1.32 | |||||
Book Value Per Share at Period End |
N/A | $ | 22.43 | ||||
PrentissUnaudited Pro Forma Equivalent |
|||||||
Income Per Share from Continuing Operations including gain on sale: |
|||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.15 | $ | 0.09 | |||
Diluted |
0.15 | 0.09 | |||||
Dividends Per Share |
1.21 | 0.91 | |||||
Book Value Per Share at Period End |
N/A | $ | 15.48 |
27
Market Prices and Dividend Information
Brandywine common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BDN. Prentiss common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol PP. The following table shows, for the periods indicated: (1) the high and low sales prices per Brandywine common share and Prentiss common share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange and (2) the cash dividends paid per Brandywine common share and Prentiss common share.
Brandywine Common Shares |
Prentiss Common Shares |
||||||||||||||||||
High | Low | Dividends | High | Low | Dividends | ||||||||||||||
2003 |
|||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter |
$ | 22.20 | $ | 19.13 | $ | 0.44 | $ | 28.28 | $ | 25.27 | $ | 0.56 | |||||||
Second Quarter |
24.90 | 21.00 | 0.44 | 30.09 | 26.85 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Third Quarter |
25.87 | 23.76 | 0.44 | 31.41 | 28.79 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Fourth Quarter |
27.74 | 24.60 | 0.44 | 32.99 | 29.58 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
2004 |
|||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter |
$ | 30.59 | $ | 26.25 | $ | 0.44 | $ | 36.92 | $ | 32.41 | $ | 0.56 | |||||||
Second Quarter |
30.82 | 23.52 | 0.44 | 37.31 | 29.25 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Third Quarter |
30.12 | 26.03 | 0.44 | 37.43 | 32.94 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Fourth Quarter |
30.39 | 27.95 | 0.44 | 39.87 | 34.79 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
2005 |
|||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter |
$ | 30.50 | $ | 27.23 | $ | 0.44 | $ | 38.55 | $ | 33.59 | $ | 0.56 | |||||||
Second Quarter |
31.24 | 26.96 | 0.44 | 38.06 | 32.60 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Third Quarter |
33.42 | 29.34 | 0.44 | 40.82 | 36.23 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||
Fourth
Quarter (through November 15, 2005)(1) |
30.63 | 25.88 | 0.44 | 42.40 | 38.35 |
(1) | On November 9, 2005, Prentiss and Brandywine each declared its fourth quarter 2005 dividend to be paid on January 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of November 18, 2005. Please see Questions and Answers About the Mergers for a description of the dividends
anticipated to be paid by Prentiss and Brandywine to holders of Prentiss common shares and Brandywine common shares, respectively, for periods prior to the effective date of the REIT Merger. |
The following table sets forth the closing prices per Brandywine common share and Prentiss common share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on September 30, 2005, the last full trading day prior to the announcement of the merger agreement, and on November 15, 2005, the most recent practicable date prior to the mailing of this joint proxy statement/prospectus to the Brandywine and Prentiss common shareholders. This table also sets forth the pro forma equivalent price per Prentiss common share on September 30, 2005, and on November 15, 2005. The pro forma equivalent price per share is equal to (a) the closing price of a Brandywine common share on each such date multiplied by 0.69 (the exchange ratio for the share portion of the REIT Merger consideration) plus (b) $21.50 (the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration).
These prices will fluctuate prior to the special meetings and the consummation of the REIT Merger, and shareholders are urged to obtain current market quotations prior to making any decision with respect to the REIT Merger.
Brandywine Common Shares | Prentiss Common Shares | Prentiss Pro Forma Equivalent | ||||||||
At September 30, 2005 |
$ | 31.09 | $ | 40.60 | $ | 42.95 | ||||
At November 15,
2005 |
$ | 26.86 | $ | 39.54 | $ | 40.03 |
28
Dividend Policies
Brandywines board of trustees determines the time and amount of dividends to shareholders. Future Brandywine dividends will be authorized at the discretion of the Brandywine board of trustees and will depend on Brandywines actual cash flow, its financial condition, its capital requirements, the annual distribution requirements under the REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and such other factors as the Brandywine board of trustees may deem relevant.
Until the Mergers are completed, Prentiss common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Prentiss board of trustees and declared by Prentiss. The merger agreement permits Prentiss to pay a regular quarterly cash dividend in an amount not to exceed $0.56 per Prentiss common share. Prentiss currently intends to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends for any quarterly periods that end before the closing of the Mergers. On November 9, 2005, Prentiss declared its fourth quarter 2005 dividend of $0.56 to be paid on January 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of November 18, 2005. In addition, Prentiss will pay, if necessary, a dividend in an amount equal to the minimum amount necessary for Prentiss to maintain its REIT status under the Internal Revenue Code. If any such dividend is declared and is in addition to the regular $0.56 per share quarterly dividend, then the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of such additional dividend.
Brandywine common shareholders will continue to receive regular dividends as authorized by the Brandywine board of trustees and declared by Brandywine. Brandywines most recent quarterly dividend was $0.44 per share. Brandywine currently intends to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends as authorized by the Brandywine board of trustees. On November 9, 2005, Brandywine declared its fourth quarter 2005 dividend of $0.44 to be paid on January 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of November 18, 2005.
The merger agreement provides that Brandywine and Prentiss will coordinate the declaration, record and payment dates of any dividends in respect of their respective common shares. This coordination reflects the intention of Brandywine and Prentiss that the holders of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares not receive more than one dividend, or fail to receive one dividend, for any single calendar quarter with respect to the shares they currently own and any Brandywine common shares received in the Mergers.
After the closing of the REIT Merger, former holders of Prentiss common shares that receive Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger will receive the dividends payable to holders of Brandywine common shares with a record date after the closing of the REIT Merger.
29
RISK FACTORS
In addition to the risks relating to the businesses of Brandywine and Prentiss, which risks will also affect the combined entity, and which are incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/prospectus from other filings of Brandywine and Prentiss with the SEC and the other information included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, including the matters addressed in Warning About Forward-Looking Statements, you should carefully consider the following risk factors.
Risks Relating to the Mergers |
The operations of Brandywine and Prentiss may not be integrated successfully, and the intended benefits of the Mergers may not be realized.
The Mergers will present challenges to management, including the integration of the operations, properties and personnel of Brandywine and Prentiss. The Mergers will also pose other risks commonly associated with similar transactions, including unanticipated liabilities, unexpected costs and the diversion of managements attention to the integration of the operations of Brandywine and Prentiss. Any difficulties that the combined company encounters in the transition and integration processes, and any level of integration that is not successfully achieved, could have an adverse effect on the revenue, level of expenses and operating results of the combined company. The combined company may also experience operational interruptions or the loss of key employees, tenants and customers. As a result, notwithstanding our expectations, the combined company may not realize any of the anticipated benefits or cost savings of the Mergers.
The market value of the Brandywine common shares that Prentiss common shareholders will receive depends on what the market price of Brandywine common shares will be at the effective time of the REIT Merger and will decrease if the market value of Brandywine common shares decreases.
The market value of the Brandywine common shares that Prentiss common shareholders will receive as part of the REIT Merger consideration depends on what the trading price of Brandywine common shares will be at the effective time of the REIT Merger. The 0.69 exchange ratio that determines the number of Brandywine common shares that Prentiss common shareholders are entitled to receive in the REIT Merger is fixed. This means that there is no price protection mechanism in the merger agreement that would adjust the number of Brandywine common shares that Prentiss common shareholders may receive in the REIT Merger as a result of increases or decreases in the trading price of Brandywine common shares. If Brandywines common share price decreases, then the market value of the REIT Merger consideration payable to Prentiss common shareholders will also decrease. For historical and current market prices of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares, please see Market Prices and Dividend Information.
Brandywine and Prentiss expect to incur significant costs and expenses in connection with the Mergers, which could result in the combined company not realizing some or all of the anticipated benefits of the Mergers.
Brandywine and Prentiss are expected to incur one-time, pre-tax closing costs of approximately $55.5 million in connection with the Mergers (which include real estate transfer taxes of approximately $14.2 million and financing costs of approximately $21.2 million) and one-time pre-tax expenses of approximately $40.4 million related to change in control, severance and other benefit payments to Prentiss executive officers that are triggered by the REIT Merger and severance expenses related to headcount reductions after the Mergers are completed. These costs and expenses include investment banking expenses, severance, legal and accounting fees, printing expenses and other related charges incurred and expected to be incurred by Brandywine and Prentiss. Completion of the Mergers could trigger a mandatory prepayment (including a penalty in some cases) of Prentiss debt unless appropriate lender consents or waivers are received. If those consents and waivers cannot be obtained prior to completion of the REIT Merger, the existing Prentiss debt might need to be prepaid and/or refinanced. Brandywine also expects to incur one-time cash and non-cash costs related to the integration of Brandywine and Prentiss, which cannot be estimated at this time. There can be no assurance that the costs incurred by Brandywine and Prentiss in connection with the Mergers will not
30
be higher than expected or that the combined company will not incur additional unanticipated costs and expenses in connection with the Mergers.
Trustees and officers of Prentiss have interests in the Mergers that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Prentiss common shareholders generally.
Trustees and officers of Prentiss have interests in the Mergers that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Prentiss common shareholders generally. The Prentiss board of trustees was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in approving the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and making their recommendations. These interests include:
| the appointment of Mr. Prentiss and Mr. August, both of whom are current members of the Prentiss board of trustees, to Brandywines board of trustees upon completion of the Mergers; |
| the receipt of change in control payments of approximately $12.1 million in the aggregate (excluding gross-up payments, if any) by Prentiss executive officers under existing employment arrangements; |
| the acceleration and conversion of all vested and unvested Prentiss options into the right to receive a payment in the form Brandywine common shares; |
| the ability of Prentiss to allow each holder of a Prentiss option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of receiving Brandywine options, to convert each Prentiss option so held into the right to receive an amount of cash at the effective time of the REIT
Merger based on the positive spread of the REIT Merger consideration over the exercise price per share in the options; |
| the vesting of restricted shares under Prentiss incentive plans and the impact of the Mergers on amounts held in Prentiss deferred compensation plans; |
| on October 3, 2005, Prentiss entered into two separate change of control severance protection plans in connection with the REIT Merger, one with respect to Prentiss hourly and salaried non-officer employees and the other with respect to Prentiss key employees; |
| on November 1, 2005, Brandywine entered into employment agreements with the following four executives of Prentiss: Robert K. Wiberg, Daniel K. Cushing, Christopher M. Hipps and Michael J, Cooper. In addition, Brandywine intends to enter into employment
agreements with Gregory S. Imhoff and Scott W. Fordham. These agreements will not become effective for any purpose unless and until the REIT Merger is consummated; |
| in connection with the REIT Merger, the Prentiss compensation committee created a bonus pool of up to $10 million to provide incentives to Prentiss employees (other than the Chief Executive Officer) with respect to the consummation of the Mergers. Of the total bonus
pool, $8 million has been allocated to certain of Prentiss executive officers, payable upon closing of the REIT Merger if such officers are employed by Prentiss at the time of closing unless previously decided otherwise by Prentiss compensation committee or the
President of Prentiss; |
| the continued indemnification
of current trustees and officers of Prentiss under the merger agreement
and the provision of trustees and officers insurance to
these individuals; and |
| the entry into the voting agreements and registration rights agreement described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. |
In addition, certain trustees and officers of Prentiss who own Prentiss Operating Partnership common units will be able to defer their taxable gains in their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units by receiving Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units in exchange for their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units. The REIT Merger, in contrast, is a taxable transaction and, as a result, holders of Prentiss common shares other than certain tax-exempt holders will be required to pay tax on gains arising from exchanging their Prentiss common shares for the REIT Merger consideration.
For the above reasons, the trustees and officers of Prentiss are more likely to vote to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions than if they did not have these interests. Prentiss
31
common shareholders should consider whether these interests may have influenced these trustees and officers to support or recommend approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. See The MergersInterests of Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the Mergers.
Brandywine will need to replace, at or before maturity, any bridge facility that will be used to finance a portion of the cash component of the REIT Merger consideration and transaction costs.
Brandywine has received a commitment from affiliates of JPMorgan for (i) a 364-day term loan in the amount of $750 million, (ii) an interim term loan in the amount of $240 million, and (iii) a back-stop revolving credit facility in the amount of $600 million. Brandywine may incur increased interest costs on indebtedness that replaces these facilities due to higher interest costs of longer-term debt. The interest rate on the replacement indebtedness will depend on prevailing market conditions at the time.
Failure to complete the Mergers could negatively impact the price of Prentiss common shares and future business and operations.
It is possible that the Mergers may not be completed. The parties obligations to complete the REIT Merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of specified conditions, some of which are beyond the control of Brandywine and Prentiss. For example, the REIT Merger is conditioned on the receipt of the required approvals of Brandywine shareholders and Prentiss shareholders. If these approvals are not received, the Mergers cannot be completed even if all of the other conditions to the REIT Merger are satisfied or waived. If the Mergers are not completed for any reason, Prentiss may be subject to a number of material risks, including the following:
| Prentiss may be required under certain circumstances to pay Brandywine a termination fee of either $12.5 million or $60 million, depending upon the circumstances of the termination, and reimburse Brandywine for up to $6 million of expenses; |
| the price of Prentiss common shares may decline to the extent that the current market price of Prentiss common shares reflects a market assumption that the Mergers will be completed; |
| Prentiss will have incurred substantial costs related to the Mergers, such as legal, accounting and financial advisor fees, which must be paid even if the Mergers are not completed; and |
| Prentiss may be unable to retain its key employees. |
Further, if the Mergers are terminated and the Prentiss board of trustees determines to seek another merger or business combination, there can be no assurance that it will be able to find a party willing to pay an equivalent or more attractive price than the price to be paid in the Mergers. In addition, while the merger agreement is in effect and subject to specified exceptions, Prentiss is prohibited from soliciting, initiating or encouraging or entering into certain extraordinary transactions, such as a merger, sale of assets or other business combination, with any party other than Brandywine. See The Merger AgreementConduct of Business Pending the MergersNo Solicitation.
Failure to complete the Mergers could negatively impact the price of Brandywine common shares and future business and operations.
If the Mergers are not completed for any reason, Brandywine may be subject to a number of material risks, including the following:
| Brandywine may be required under certain circumstances to pay Prentiss a termination fee of $12.5 million and reimburse Brandywine for up to $6 million of expenses and in certain circumstances Brandywine would additionally be required to reimburse Prentiss for
unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses and any lost deposits related to the termination by Prentiss of a proposed loan related to its Barton Skyway property; |
| the price of Brandywines common shares may decline to the extent that the current market price of Prentiss common shares reflects a market assumption that the Mergers will be completed; and |
| Brandywine will have incurred substantial costs related to the Mergers, such as legal, accounting and financial advisor fees, which must be paid even if the Mergers are not completed. |
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The termination fee may discourage other companies from trying to acquire Prentiss.
In the merger agreement, Prentiss agreed to pay a termination fee of $60 million in specified circumstances, including some circumstances where a third party acquires or seeks to acquire Prentiss. Prentiss also agreed to pay an alternate termination fee of $12.5 million in certain other specified circumstances not associated with the termination fee of $60 million and reimburse Brandywine for up to $6 million of expenses. These provisions could discourage other parties from trying to acquire Prentiss, even if those companies might be willing to offer a greater amount of consideration to Prentiss common shareholders than Brandywine has offered in the merger agreement. Payment of the termination fee could have a material adverse effect on Prentiss financial condition. See The Merger Agreement Termination Fees; Other Expenses.
After the REIT Merger is completed, Prentiss common shareholders will become shareholders of Brandywine and will have different rights that may be less advantageous than their current rights.
After the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss common shareholders will become Brandywine common shareholders. Brandywine and Prentiss are each Maryland real estate investment trusts. Differences in Brandywines and the Prentiss Declaration of Trust and Bylaws will result in changes to the rights of Prentiss common shareholders when they become Brandywine common shareholders. A Prentiss common shareholder may conclude that its current rights under the Prentiss Declaration of Trust and Bylaws are more advantageous than the rights they may have under Brandywines Declaration of Trust and Bylaws. See Comparison of The Rights of Brandywine Common Shareholders and Prentiss Common Shareholders.
The merger agreement does not require that the financial advisors fairness opinions be updated as a condition to closing the Mergers.
The merger agreement does not require that the financial advisors fairness opinions be updated as a condition to closing the Mergers and neither Brandywine nor Prentiss currently intends to request that those opinions be updated. As such, the fairness opinions do not reflect any changes in the relative values of Brandywine or Prentiss subsequent to the date of the merger agreement. The market price of Brandywine common shares and Prentiss common shares at the closing of the Mergers may vary significantly from the market price as of the date of the fairness opinions.
Risks Relating to the Combined Company |
The combined companys performance is subject to risks associated with its properties and with the real estate industry.
The combined companys economic performance and the value of its real estate assets, and consequently the value of its securities, will be subject to the risk that if its properties do not generate revenues sufficient to meet its operating expenses, including debt service and capital expenditures, its cash flow and ability to pay distributions to its shareholders will be adversely affected. Events or conditions beyond its control that may adversely affect its operations or the value of its properties include:
| downturns in the national, regional and local economic climate; |
| competition from other office, industrial and commercial buildings; |
| local real estate market conditions, such as oversupply or reduction in demand for office, or other commercial or industrial space; |
| changes in interest rates and availability of financing; |
| vacancies, changes in market rental rates and the need to periodically repair, renovate and re-lease space; |
| increased operating costs, including insurance expense, utilities, real estate taxes, state and local taxes and heightened security costs; |
| civil disturbances, earthquakes and other natural disasters, or terrorist acts or acts of war which may result in uninsured or underinsured losses; |
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| significant expenditures associated with each investment, such as debt service payments, real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance costs which are generally not reduced when circumstances cause a reduction in revenues from a property; and |
| declines in the financial condition of its tenants and its ability to collect rents from its tenants. |
The combined company may experience increased operating costs, which might reduce its profitability.
The combined companys properties will be subject to increases in operating expenses such as for cleaning, electricity, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, administrative costs and other costs associated with security, landscaping and repairs and maintenance of its properties. In general, under its leases with tenants, the combined company will pass on all or a portion of these costs to them. Brandywine cannot assure you, however, that tenants will actually bear the full burden of these higher costs, or that such increased costs will not lead them, or other prospective tenants, to seek office space elsewhere. If operating expenses increase, the availability of other comparable office space in its core geographic markets might limit the combined companys ability to increase rents; if operating expenses increase without a corresponding increase in revenues, its profitability could diminish and limit its ability to make distributions to shareholders.
The combined companys investment in property development or redevelopment may be more costly than it anticipates.
The combined company intends to continue to develop properties where market conditions warrant such investment. Once made, these investments may not produce results in accordance with its expectations. Risks associated with the combined companys current and future development and construction activities include:
| the unavailability of favorable financing alternatives in the private and public debt markets; |
| construction costs exceeding original estimates due to rising interest rates and increases in the costs of materials and labor; |
| construction and lease-up delays resulting in increased debt service, fixed expenses and construction or renovation costs; |
| expenditure of funds and devotion of managements time to projects that the combined company does not complete; |
| occupancy rates and rents at newly completed properties may fluctuate depending on a number of factors, including market and economic conditions, resulting in lower than projected rental rates and a corresponding lower return on our investment; and |
| complications (including building moratoriums and anti-growth legislation) in obtaining necessary zoning, occupancy and other governmental permits. |
The combined company faces risks associated with property acquisitions.
Brandywine has in the past acquired, and intends in the future to acquire, properties and portfolios of properties, including large portfolios, such as the Prentiss properties, that would increase its size and potentially alter its capital structure. Although Brandywine believes that the acquisitions that it has completed in the past and that it expects to undertake in the future have and will enhance its future financial performance, the success of such transactions is subject to a number of factors, including the risk that:
| Brandywine may not be able to obtain financing for acquisitions on favorable terms; |
| acquired properties may fail to perform as expected; |
| the actual costs of repositioning or redeveloping acquired properties may be higher than its estimates; |
| acquired properties may be located in new markets where Brandywine may have limited knowledge and understanding of the local economy, an absence of business relationships in the area or unfamiliarity with local governmental and permitting procedures; and |
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| Brandywine may not be able to efficiently integrate acquired properties, particularly portfolios of properties, into its organization and to manage new properties in a way that allows it to realize cost savings and synergies. |
Acquired properties may subject the combined company to unknown liabilities.
Properties that the combined company acquires may be subject to unknown liabilities for which it would have no recourse, or only limited recourse, to the former owners of such properties. As a result, if a liability were asserted against the combined company based upon ownership of an acquired property, it might be required to pay significant sums to settle it, which could adversely affect the combined companys financial results and cash flow. Unknown liabilities relating to acquired properties could include:
| liabilities for clean-up of undisclosed environmental contamination; |
| claims by tenants, vendors or other persons arising on account of actions or omissions of the former owners of the properties; and |
| liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business. |
Brandywine has agreed not to sell certain of its properties.
Brandywine has agreed not to sell several of its properties, and has agreed to assume certain obligations of Prentiss not to sell certain of its properties, for varying periods of time, in transactions that would trigger taxable income to its former owners, and the combined company may enter into similar arrangements as a part of future property acquisitions. Some of these tax protection agreements are with affiliates of one of Brandywines current trustees. These agreements generally provide that Brandywine may dispose of the subject properties only in transactions that qualify as tax-free exchanges under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code or in other tax deferred transactions. Such transactions can be difficult to complete and can result in the property acquired in exchange for the disposed of property inheriting the tax attributes (including tax protection covenants) of the disposed of property. Violation of these tax protection agreements would impose significant costs on Brandywine. As a result, the combined company will be restricted with respect to decisions such as financing, encumbering, expanding or selling these Properties.
The combined company may be unable to renew leases or re-lease space as leases expire.
If tenants do not renew their leases upon expiration, the combined company may be unable to re-lease the space. Even if the tenants do renew their leases or if the combined company can re-lease the space, the terms of renewal or re-leasing (including the cost of required renovations) may be less favorable than current lease terms. Certain leases grant the tenants an early termination right upon payment of a termination penalty.
The combined company faces significant competition from other real estate developers.
The combined company will compete with real estate developers, operators and institutions for tenants and acquisition and development opportunities. Some of these competitors have significantly greater financial resources than the combined company will have. Such competition may reduce the number of suitable investment opportunities offered to the combined company, may interfere with its ability to attract and retain tenants and may increase vacancies, which could result in increased supply and lower market rental rates, reducing its bargaining leverage and adversely affecting the combined companys ability to improve its operating leverage. In addition, some of the combined companys competitors may be willing, because their properties may have vacancy rates higher than those for the combined companys properties, to make space available at lower prices than available space in the combined companys properties. The combined company will not be able to assure you that this competition will not adversely affect its cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders.
Property ownership through joint ventures may limit the combined companys ability to act exclusively in its interests.
The combined company intends to develop and acquire properties in joint ventures with other persons or entities when it believes circumstances warrant the use of such structures. Brandywine currently has investments in nine unconsolidated real estate ventures and two additional real estate ventures that are
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consolidated in its financial statements. Its investments in the nine unconsolidated real estate ventures aggregated approximately $13.3 million (net of returns of investment amounts) as of September 30, 2005. As a result of the Mergers, Brandywine is expected to succeed to Prentiss investments in one unconsolidated real estate venture and two additional real estate ventures that will be consolidated in its financial statements after the Mergers. The combined company could become engaged in a dispute with one or more of its joint venture partners that might affect its ability to operate a jointly-owned property. Moreover, the combined companys joint venture partners may, at any time, have business, economic or other objectives that are inconsistent with its objectives, including objectives that relate to the appropriate timing and terms of any sale or refinancing of a property. In some instances, its joint venture partners may have competing interests in the combined companys markets that could create conflicts of interest. If the objectives of the combined companys joint venture partners are inconsistent with its own objections, it will not be able to act exclusively in its interests.
Because real estate is illiquid, the combined company may not be able to sell properties when appropriate.
Real estate investments generally, and in particular large office and industrial properties like those that the combined company will own, often cannot be sold quickly. Consequently, the combined company may not be able to alter its portfolio promptly in response to changes in economic or other conditions. In addition, the Internal Revenue Code limits the combined companys ability to sell properties that it has held for fewer than four years without resulting in adverse consequences to its shareholders. Furthermore, properties that either Brandywine or Prentiss have developed and have owned for a significant period of time or that either acquired in exchange for partnership interests in their respective operating partnership often have a low tax basis. If the combined company were to dispose of any of these properties in a taxable transaction, it may be required under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to REITs to distribute a significant amount of the taxable gain to its shareholders and this could, in turn, impact its cash flow. In some cases, tax protection agreements will prevent the combined company from selling certain properties without incurring substantial costs. In addition, purchase options and rights of first refusal held by tenants or partners in joint ventures may also limit the combined companys ability to sell certain properties. All of these factors reduce the combined companys ability to respond to changes in the performance of its investments and could adversely affect the combined companys cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders as well as the ability of someone to purchase the combined company, even if a purchase were in its shareholders best interests.
The combined company may suffer adverse consequences due to the financial difficulties, bankruptcy or insolvency of its tenants.
If one or more of the combined companys tenants were to experience financial difficulties, including bankruptcy, insolvency or a general downturn of business, there could be an adverse effect on its financial performance and distributions to shareholders. The combined company will not be able to assure you that any tenant that files for bankruptcy protection will continue to pay its rent. A bankruptcy filing by or relating to one of the combined companys tenants or a lease guarantor would bar all efforts by the combined company to collect pre-bankruptcy debts from that tenant or lease guarantor, or its property, unless the combined company receives an order permitting it to do so from the bankruptcy court. In addition, the combined company cannot evict a tenant solely because of bankruptcy. The bankruptcy of a tenant or lease guarantor could delay the combined companys efforts to collect past due balances under the relevant leases, and could ultimately preclude collection of these sums. If a lease is assumed by the tenant in bankruptcy, all pre-bankruptcy balances due under the lease must be paid to the combined company in full. If, however, a lease is rejected by a tenant in bankruptcy, the combined company would have only a general unsecured claim for damages. Any such unsecured claim would only be paid only to the extent that funds are available and only in the same percentage as is paid to all other holders of unsecured claims; restrictions under the bankruptcy laws further limit the amount of any other claims that it can make if a lease is rejected. As a result, it is likely that the combined company would recover substantially less than the full value of any such unsecured claims that it might hold.
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Some potential losses are not covered by insurance.
Brandywine and Prentiss currently carry comprehensive liability, fire, extended coverage and rental loss insurance on all of its properties. Each believes the policy specifications and insured limits of these policies are adequate and appropriate.
There are, however, types of losses, such as lease and other contract claims and terrorism and acts of war, that generally are not insured. The combined company cannot assure you that it will be able to renew insurance coverage in an adequate amount or at reasonable prices. In addition, insurance companies may no longer offer coverage against certain types of losses, such as losses due to terrorist acts and mold, or, if offered, these types of insurance may be prohibitively expensive. Should an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits occur, the combined company could lose all or a portion of the capital it has invested in a property, as well as the anticipated future revenue from the property. In such an event, it might nevertheless remain obligated for any mortgage debt or other financial obligations related to the property. The combined company cannot assure you that material losses in excess of insurance proceeds will not occur in the future. If any of its properties were to experience a catastrophic loss, the combined company could seriously disrupt its operations, delay revenue and result in large expenses to repair or rebuild the property. Such events could adversely affect its cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders.
Terrorist attacks and other acts of violence or war may adversely impact the combined companys performance and may affect the markets on which the combined companys securities are traded.
Terrorist attacks against the combined companys properties, or against the United States or its interests, may negatively impact the combined companys operations and the value of the combined companys securities. Attacks or armed conflicts could result in increased operating costs; for example, it might cost more in the future for building security, property/casualty and liability insurance, and property maintenance. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Brandywine and Prentiss each increased the level of security at its properties and each continues to reevaluate its security infrastructure. As a result of terrorist activities and other market conditions, the cost of insurance coverage for the combined companys properties could also increase. The combined company might not be able to pass along the increased costs associated with such increased security measures and insurance to its tenants, which could reduce its profitability and cash flow. Furthermore, any terrorist attacks or armed conflicts could result in increased volatility in or damage to the United States and worldwide financial markets and economy. Such adverse economic conditions could affect the ability of the combined companys tenants to pay rent, which could have a negative impact on its results.
The combined companys ability to make distributions will be subject to various risks.
Historically, Brandywine has paid quarterly distributions to its shareholders. The combined companys ability to make distributions in the future will depend upon:
| the operational and financial performance of the combined companys properties; |
| capital expenditures with respect to existing and newly acquired properties; |
| general and administrative costs associated with Brandywines operation as a publicly-held REIT; |
| the amount of, and the interest rates on, the combined companys debt; and |
| the absence of significant expenditures relating to environmental and other regulatory matters. |
Certain of these matters are beyond the combined companys control and any significant difference between the combined companys expectations and actual results could have a material adverse effect on its cash flow and its ability to make distributions to shareholders.
Changes in the law may adversely affect the combined companys cash flow.
Because increases in income and service taxes are generally not passed through to tenants under leases, such increases may adversely affect the combined companys cash flow and ability to make expected distributions to shareholders. The combined companys properties are also subject to various regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment, fire and safety. The combined companys failure to
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comply with these requirements could result in the imposition of fines and damage awards and default under some of its tenant leases. Moreover, the costs to comply with any new or different regulations could adversely affect the combined companys cash flow and its ability to make distributions. Although Brandywine believes that the properties of the combined company will be in material compliance with all such requirements, it cannot assure you that these requirements will not change or that newly imposed requirements will not require significant unanticipated expenditures.
The terms and covenants relating to the combined companys indebtedness could adversely impact its economic performance.
Like other real estate companies which incur debt, the combined company will be subject to risks normally associated with debt financing, such as the insufficiency of cash flow to meet required debt service payment obligations and the inability to refinance existing indebtedness. If the combined companys debt cannot be paid, refinanced or extended at maturity, in addition to its failure to repay its debt, the combined company may not be able to make distributions to shareholders at expected levels or at all. Furthermore, an increase in the combined companys interest expense could adversely affect its cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders. If the combined company does not meet its debt service obligations, any properties securing such indebtedness could be foreclosed on, which would have a material adverse effect on the combined companys cash flow and ability to make distributions and, depending on the number of properties foreclosed on, could threaten its continued viability.
The combined companys credit facility and the indenture governing the unsecured debt securities contain (and any new or amended facility entered into in connection with or after the Mergers will contain) customary restrictions, requirements and other limitations on the combined companys ability to incur indebtedness, including total debt to asset ratios, secured debt to total asset ratios, debt service coverage ratios and minimum ratios of unencumbered assets to unsecured debt which we must maintain. The combined companys continued ability to borrow under the credit facility is (and any new or amended facility will be) subject to compliance with such financial and other covenants. In the event that the combined company would fail to satisfy these covenants, the combined company would be in default under the credit facility and indenture, and may be required to repay such debt with capital from other sources. Under such circumstances, other sources of capital may not be available to the combined company, or be available only on unattractive terms.
Increases in interest rates on variable rate indebtedness would increase the combined companys interest expense, which could adversely affect its cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders. Rising interest rates could also restrict the combined companys ability to refinance existing debt when it matures. In addition, an increase in interest rates could decrease the amounts that third parties are willing to pay for the combined companys assets, thereby limiting the combined companys ability to alter its portfolio promptly in relation to economic or other conditions. The combined company may, from time to time, enter into agreements such as interest rate hedges, swaps, floors, caps and other interest rate hedging contracts with respect to a portion of its variable rate debt. Although these agreements may lessen the impact of rising interest rates on the combined company, they also expose the combined company to the risk that other parties to the agreements will not perform or that the combined company cannot enforce the agreements.
The combined companys degree of leverage could limit its ability to obtain additional financing or affect the market price of its common shares or debt securities.
Brandywines long-term debt as of September 30, 2005 was approximately $1.5 billion, or 47% of its total gross assets, of which $10.0 million matures during 2006. Prentiss long-term debt as of September 30, 2005 was approximately $1.4 billion, or 49% of its total gross assets, of which $4.2 million matures during 2006. The combined companys anticipated long-term debt on a pro forma basis as of September 30, 2005, will be approximately 53% of its total assets. The combined companys degree of leverage could affect its ability to obtain additional financing for working capital expenditures, development, acquisitions or other general corporate purposes. Brandywines senior unsecured debt is currently rated investment grade by the three major rating agencies. Brandywine cannot, however, assure you that the combined company will be able to maintain this rating. In the event that the combined companys senior unsecured debt is downgraded from the current rating, the combined company
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would likely incur higher borrowing costs and the market prices of its common shares and debt securities might decline. The combined companys degree of leverage could also make it more vulnerable to a downturn in business or the economy generally.
Additional issuances of equity securities may be dilutive to shareholders.
The interests of the combined companys shareholders could be diluted if it issues additional equity securities to finance future developments or acquisitions or to repay indebtedness. The combined companys board of trustees will be able to issue additional equity securities without shareholder approval. The combined companys ability to execute its business strategy will depend upon its access to an appropriate blend of debt financing, including unsecured lines of credit and other forms of secured and unsecured debt, and equity financing, including the issuance of common and preferred equity.
Potential liability for environmental contamination could result in substantial costs.
Under various federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, the combined company may be liable for the costs to investigate and remove or remediate hazardous or toxic substances on or in its properties, often regardless of whether it knows of or is responsible for the presence of these substances. These costs may be substantial. Also, if hazardous or toxic substances are present on a property, or if the combined company fails to properly remediate such substances, its ability to sell or rent the property or to borrow using that property as collateral may be adversely affected.
Additionally, the combined company will develop, manage, lease and/or operate various properties for third parties. Consequently, the combined company may be considered to have been or to be an operator of these properties and, therefore, potentially liable for removal or remediation costs or other potential costs that could relate to hazardous or toxic substances.
Americans with Disabilities Act compliance could be costly.
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) requires that all public accommodations and commercial facilities, including office buildings, meet certain federal requirements related to access and use by disabled persons. Compliance with ADA requirements could involve the removal of structural barriers from certain disabled persons entrances which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Other federal, state and local laws may require modifications to or restrict further renovations of the combined companys properties with respect to such accesses. Although Brandywine believes that the combined companys properties will be in material compliance with present requirements, noncompliance with the ADA or similar or related laws or regulations could result in the United States government imposing fines or private litigants being awarded damages against the combined company. In addition, Brandywine does not know whether existing requirements will change or whether compliance with future requirements will require significant unanticipated expenditures. Such costs may adversely affect the combined companys cash flow and ability to make distributions to shareholders.
The status of the combined company (or a REIT subsidiary) as a REIT is dependent on compliance with federal income tax requirements.
If the combined company (or a REIT subsidiary) fails to qualify as a REIT, they would be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates. Also, unless the IRS granted the combined company or REIT subsidiary, as the case may be, relief under certain statutory provisions, the combined company or REIT subsidiary would remain disqualified as a REIT for four years following the year it first failed to qualify. If the combined company or REIT subsidiary fails to qualify as a REIT, it would be required to pay significant income taxes and would, therefore, have less money available for investments or for distributions to shareholders. This would likely have a material adverse effect on the value of the combined companys securities. In addition, the combined company or REIT subsidiary would no longer be required to make any distributions to shareholders.
Failure of the Brandywine Operating Partnership (or a subsidiary partnership) to be treated as a partnership would have serious adverse consequences to the combined companys shareholders. If the IRS were to successfully challenge the tax status of the Brandywine Operating Partnership or any of its subsidiary partnerships for federal income tax purposes, the Brandywine Operating Partnership or the affected subsidiary
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partnership would be taxable as a corporation. In such event, the combined company would cease to qualify as a REIT and the imposition of a corporate tax on the Brandywine Operating Partnership or a subsidiary partnership would reduce the amount of cash available for distribution from the Brandywine Operating Partnership to the combined company and ultimately to its shareholders.
Even if the combined company qualifies as a REIT, it will be required to pay certain federal, state and local taxes on its income and properties. In addition, the combined companys taxable REIT subsidiaries will be subject to federal, state and local income tax at regular corporate rates on their net taxable income derived from management, leasing and related service business. If the combined company has net income from a prohibited transaction, such income will be subject to a 100% tax.
The combined company will be dependent upon its key personnel.
The combined company will be dependent upon key personnel whose continued service is not guaranteed. The combined company will be dependent on its executive officers for strategic business direction and real estate experience. Brandywine has entered into employment agreements with Robert K. Wiberg, Prentiss Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, Christopher M. Hipps, Prentiss Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Southwest Region, Daniel K. Cushing, Prentiss Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Northern California Region, and Michael J. Cooper, Prentiss Senior Vice President, Development. In addition, Brandywine intends to enter into employment agreements with Gregory S. Imhoff, Prentiss Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, and Scott W. Fordham, Prentiss Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer. Upon consummation of the REIT Merger, these executive officers have agreed to assume the following positions at Brandywine: Mr. Wiberg (Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Operations of Brandywine); Mr. Hipps (Executive Vice President and Managing Director -Southwest Region of Brandywine); Mr. Cushing (Senior Vice President and Managing Director -Western Region of Brandywine); and Mr. Cooper (Senior Vice President-Mid-Atlantic Region of Brandywine). It is also expected that Mr. Imhoff will become the Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Brandywine and Mr. Fordham will become the Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Brandywine.
Brandywines inability to retain the services of any of these executives or the combined companys loss of any of their services after the Mergers could adversely impact the operations of the combined company. Although Brandywine has an employment agreement with Gerard H. Sweeney, its President and Chief Executive Officer, for a term extending to May 7, 2008, this agreement does not restrict his ability to become employed by a competitor following the termination of his employment. The combined company will not have key man life insurance coverage on its executive officers upon completion of the Mergers.
Certain limitations will exist with respect to a third partys ability to acquire the combined company or effectuate a change in control.
Limitations imposed to protect the combined companys REIT status. In order to protect the combined company against the loss of its REIT status, its Declaration of Trust will limit any shareholder from owning more than 9.8% in value of the combined companys outstanding shares, subject to certain exceptions. The ownership limit may have the effect of precluding acquisition of control of the combined company.
Limitation due to the combined companys ability to issue preferred shares. The combined companys Declaration of Trust will authorize the board of trustees to issue preferred shares, without limitation as to amount. The board of trustees will be able establish the preferences and rights of any preferred shares issued which could have the effect of delaying or preventing someone from taking control of the combined company, even if a change in control were in its shareholders best interests.
Limitation imposed by the Maryland Business Combination Law. The Maryland General Corporation Law, as applicable to Maryland REITs, establishes special restrictions against business combinations between a Maryland REIT and interested shareholders or their affiliates unless an exemption is applicable. An interested shareholder includes a person who beneficially owns, and an affiliate or associate of the trust who, at any time within the two-year period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner of, ten percent or more of the voting power of Brandywines then-outstanding voting shares. Among other things, Maryland law prohibits (for a period of five years) a merger and certain other transactions between a
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Maryland REIT and an interested shareholder unless the board of trustees had approved the transaction before the party became an interested shareholder. The five-year period runs from the most recent date on which the interested shareholder became an interested shareholder. Thereafter, any such business combination must be recommended by the board of trustees and approved by two super-majority shareholder votes unless, among other conditions, the common shareholders receive a minimum price for their shares and the consideration is received in cash or in the same form as previously paid by the interested shareholder for its shares or unless the board of trustees approved the transaction before the party in question became an interested shareholder. The business combination statute could have the effect of discouraging offers to acquire the combined company and of increasing the difficulty of consummating any such offers, even if the combined companys acquisition would be in its shareholders best interests.
Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act. Maryland law provides that control shares of a REIT acquired in a control share acquisition shall have no voting rights except to the extent approved by a vote of two-thirds of the vote eligible to be cast on the matter under the Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act. Control Shares means shares that, if aggregated with all other shares previously acquired by the acquirer or in respect of which the acquirer is able to exercise or direct the exercise of voting power (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), would entitle the acquirer to exercise voting power in electing trustees within one of the following ranges of voting power: one-tenth or more but less than one-third, one-third or more but less than a majority or a majority or more of all voting power. Control shares do not include shares the acquiring person is then entitled to vote as a result of having previously obtained shareholder approval. A control share acquisition means the acquisition of control shares, subject to certain exceptions. If voting rights or control shares acquired in a control share acquisition are not approved at a shareholders meeting, then subject to certain conditions and limitations the issuer may redeem any or all of the control shares for fair value. If voting rights of such control shares are approved at a shareholders meeting and the acquirer becomes entitled to vote a majority of the shares entitled to vote, all other shareholders may exercise appraisal rights. Any control shares acquired in a control share acquisition which are not exempt under the combined companys Bylaws will be subject to the Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act. The combined companys Bylaws will contain a provision exempting from the control share acquisition statute any and all acquisitions by any person of its shares. Brandywine cannot assure you that this provision will not be amended or eliminated at any time in the future.
Many factors can have an adverse effect on the market value of the combined companys securities.
A number of factors might adversely affect the price of the combined companys securities, many of which are beyond its control. These factors include:
| increases in market interest rates, relative to the dividend yield on the combined companys shares. If market interest rates go up, prospective purchasers of the combined companys securities may require a higher yield. Higher market interest rates would not, however,
result in more funds for the combined company to distribute and, to the contrary, would likely increase its borrowing costs and potentially decrease funds available for distribution. Thus, higher market interest rates could cause the market price of Brandywines common
shares to go down; |
| anticipated benefit of an investment in the combined companys securities as compared to investment in securities of companies in other industries (including benefits associated with tax treatment of dividends and distributions); |
| perception by market professionals of REITs generally and REITs comparable to Brandywine in particular; |
| level of institutional investor interest in the combined companys securities; |
| relatively low trading volumes in securities of REITs; |
| the combined companys result of operations and financial condition; and |
| investor confidence in the stock market generally. |
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The market value of Brandywines common shares is based primarily upon the markets perception of Brandywines growth potential and its current and potential future earnings and cash distributions. Consequently, Brandywines common shares may trade at prices that are higher or lower than its net asset value per common share. If Brandywines future earnings or cash distributions are less than expected, it is likely that the market price of Brandywines common shares will diminish.
The issuance of preferred securities may adversely affect the rights of holders of the combined companys common shares.
Because the combined companys board of trustees will have the power to establish the preferences and rights of each class or series of preferred shares, the combined company may afford the holders in any series or class of preferred shares preferences, distributions, powers and rights, voting or otherwise, senior to the rights of holders of common shares. The board of trustees of the combined company will also have the power to establish the preferences and rights of each class or series of units in the Brandywine Operating Partnership, and may afford the holders in any series or class of preferred units preferences, distributions, powers and rights, voting or otherwise, senior to the rights of holders of common units.
The acquisition of new properties which lack operating history with the combined company will give rise to difficulties in predicting revenue potential.
The combined company will acquire office properties. These acquisitions could fail to perform in accordance with expectations. If the combined company fails to accurately estimate occupancy levels, operating costs or costs of improvements to bring an acquired property up to the standards established for its intended market position, the operating performance of the property may be below expectations. Acquired properties may have characteristics or deficiencies affecting their valuation or revenue potential that we have not yet discovered. Brandywine cannot assure you that the operating performance of properties acquired by the combined company will increase or be maintained under the combined companys management.
The combined companys performance will be dependent upon the economic conditions of the markets in which its properties are located.
Properties of the combined company will be located in the Mid-Atlantic, Southwest, Northern California and Southern California markets. Like other real estate markets, these commercial real estate markets have experienced economic downturns in the past, and future declines in any of these economies or real estate markets could adversely affect cash available for distribution. The combined companys financial performance and ability to make distributions to its shareholders will be, therefore, particularly sensitive to the economic conditions in these markets. The local economic climate, which may be adversely impacted by business layoffs or downsizing, industry slowdowns, changing demographics and other factors, and local real estate conditions, such as oversupply of or reduced demand for office, industrial and other competing commercial properties, may affect revenues and the value of properties, including properties to be acquired or developed. Brandywine cannot assure you that these local economies will grow in the future.
Changes in market conditions including capitalization rates applied in real estate acquisitions could impact the combined companys ability to grow through acquisitions.
The combined company will selectively pursue acquisitions in its core markets when long-term yields make acquisitions attractive. The combined company will compete with numerous property owners for the acquisition of real estate properties. Some of these competitors may be willing to accept lower yields on their investments impacting the combined companys ability to acquire real estate assets and thus limit its external growth.
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THE BRANDYWINE SPECIAL MEETING
Date, Time, Place and Purpose of the Brandywine Special Meeting |
The Brandywine special meeting will be held at The Four Seasons Hotel, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103 at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time on December 21, 2005. The special meeting may be adjourned or postponed to another date and/or place for proper purposes. At the Brandywine special meeting, holders of Brandywine common shares will consider and vote on a proposal to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. The Brandywine common shareholders also might be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn the Brandywine special meeting for the purpose of allowing additional time for the solicitation of additional votes to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
Who Can Vote |
You are entitled to vote your Brandywine common shares if Brandywines shareholder records showed that you held your Brandywine common shares as of the close of business on November 15, 2005. At the close of business on that date, a total of 56,495,209 Brandywine common shares were outstanding and entitled to vote. Each Brandywine common share has one vote. The enclosed proxy card shows the number of Brandywine common shares that you are entitled to vote.
Voting by Proxy Holders |
If you hold your Brandywine common shares in your name as a holder of record, you may instruct the proxy holders how to vote your Brandywine common shares by signing, dating and mailing the proxy card in the postage-paid envelope that we have provided to you. The proxy holders will vote your Brandywine common shares as provided by those instructions. If you give Brandywine a signed proxy without giving specific voting instructions, your Brandywine common shares will be voted by the proxy holders in favor of approving the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. If your Brandywine common shares are held by a broker, bank or other nominee, you will receive instructions from your broker, bank or nominee that you must follow to have your Brandywine common shares voted.
Quorum and Required Vote |
A quorum of common shareholders is required to hold a valid meeting. The holders of a majority of the outstanding common shares entitled to vote at the Brandywine special meeting must be present in person or by proxy to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Brandywine special meeting. All Brandywine common shares represented at the Brandywine special meeting, including abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum.
In accordance with the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange, or the NYSE, approval of the issuance of the Brandywine common shares requires the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the Brandywine common shares cast in person or by proxy on such proposal at the Brandywine special meeting, provided that the total votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the outstanding Brandywine common shares entitled to vote on the proposal.
As of the record date for the Brandywine special meeting, Brandywine trustees, executive officers and their affiliates beneficially owned 948,414 Brandywine common shares (excluding share options and Brandywine Operating Partnership units held by them), representing approximately 1.68% of the outstanding Brandywine common shares entitled to vote at the Brandywine special meeting.
Abstentions and Broker Non-Votes |
Abstentions by holders of Brandywine common shares will be counted as votes cast and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
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Under the listing requirements of the NYSE, brokers who hold Brandywine common shares in street name for a beneficial owner of those shares typically have the authority to vote in their discretion on routine proposals when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. However, brokers are not allowed to exercise their voting discretion with respect to the approval of matters that the NYSE determines to be non-routine, such as approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement, without specific instructions from the beneficial owner. These non-voted shares are referred to as broker non-votes. If your broker holds your Brandywine common shares in street name, your broker will vote your shares only if you provide instructions on how to vote by filling out the voter instruction form sent to you by your broker with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote with respect to the issuance of Brandywine common shares unless the holders of less than a majority of the votes entitled to be cast of the Brandywine common shares vote, in which case broker non-votes will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
Voting on Other Matters |
We are not now aware of any matters to be presented at the Brandywine special meeting except for those described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. If any other matter not described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is properly presented at the meeting, the proxy holders will use their own judgment to determine how to vote your Brandywine common shares. If the meeting is adjourned or postponed, your Brandywine common shares may be voted by the proxy holders on the new meeting date as well, unless you have revoked your proxy instructions before that date.
How You May Revoke Your Proxy Instructions |
To revoke your proxy instructions, you must (1) so advise Brandywines Secretary, Brad A. Molotsky, c/o Brandywine Realty Trust, 401 Plymouth Road, Suite 500, Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462 in writing before your Brandywine common shares have been voted by the proxy holders at the meeting, (2) execute and deliver a subsequently dated proxy or (3) attend the meeting and vote your Brandywine common shares in person. If you hold shares in street name and you would like to revoke an earlier vote, please check with your broker and follow the voting procedures your broker provides.
Cost of this Proxy Solicitation |
The accompanying proxy is being solicited on behalf of Brandywine board of trustees. Each of Brandywine and Prentiss will pay one-half of the expense of preparing, printing and mailing the proxy and materials used in the solicitation. MacKenzie Partners, Inc. has been retained by Brandywine and Prentiss to aid in the solicitation of proxies from their respective shareholders for an aggregate fee of $25,000 and the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. Proxies may also be solicited from Brandywine shareholders by personal interview, telephone and telegram by Brandywine trustees, officers and employees, who will not receive additional compensation for performing that service. Arrangements also will be made with brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of proxy materials to the beneficial owners of Brandywine shares held by those persons, and Brandywine will reimburse them for any reasonable expenses that they incur.
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THE PRENTISS SPECIAL MEETING
Date, Time, Place and Purpose of the Prentiss Special Meeting |
The special meeting of the Prentiss common shareholders is scheduled to be held at 3890 West Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas, 75220 at 10:00 a.m., Central time, on December 21, 2005. The special meeting may be adjourned or postponed to another date and/or place for proper purposes. The purpose of the meeting is to consider and vote on a proposal to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. The Prentiss common shareholders also might be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn the Prentiss special meeting for the purpose of allowing additional time for the solicitation of additional votes to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
Who Can Vote |
You are entitled to vote your Prentiss common shares if the Prentiss shareholder records showed that you held your Prentiss common shares as of the close of business on November 15, 2005. At the close of business on that date, a total of 49,254,716 Prentiss common shares were outstanding and entitled to vote. Each Prentiss common share has one vote. The enclosed proxy card shows the number of Prentiss common shares that you are entitled to vote.
Voting by Proxy Holders |
If you hold your Prentiss common shares in your name as a holder of record, you may instruct the proxy holders how to vote your Prentiss common shares by signing, dating and mailing the proxy card in the postage-paid envelope that we have provided to you. The proxy holders will vote your Prentiss common shares as provided by those instructions. If you give Prentiss a signed proxy without giving specific voting instructions, your Prentiss common shares will be voted by the proxy holders in favor of the proposal to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. If your Prentiss common shares are held by a broker, bank or other nominee, you will receive instructions from your nominee that you must follow to have your Prentiss common shares voted.
Quorum and Required Vote |
A quorum of common shareholders is required to hold a valid meeting. The holders of a majority of the Prentiss common shares outstanding and entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting must be present in person or by proxy to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Prentiss special meeting. All Prentiss common shares represented at the Prentiss special meeting, including abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum.
Approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions requires the affirmative vote in person or by proxy of the holders of at least a majority of the Prentiss common shares outstanding entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting.
As of the record date for the Prentiss special meeting, Prentiss trustees, executive officers and their affiliates beneficially owned, excluding share options and Operating Partnership units held by them, 2,558,621 Prentiss common shares, representing approximately 5.2% of the outstanding Prentiss common shares entitled to vote at the Prentiss special meeting.
Abstentions and Broker Non-Votes |
Abstentions by holders of Prentiss common shares will not be counted as votes cast and will have the same effect as voting against approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
Under the listing requirements of the NYSE, brokers who hold Prentiss common shares in street name for a beneficial owner of those shares typically have the authority to vote in their discretion on routine proposals when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. However, brokers are not allowed
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to exercise their voting discretion with respect to the approval of matter that the NYSE determines to be non-routine, such as approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, without specific instructions from the beneficial owner. These non-voted shares are referred to as broker non-votes. If your broker holds your Prentiss common shares in street name, your broker will vote your shares only if you provide instructions on how to vote by filling out the voter instruction form sent to you by your broker with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Broker non-votes will not be counted as votes cast at the Prentiss special meeting and will have the effect of a vote against the proposal.
Voting on Other Matters |
We are not now aware of any matters to be presented at the Prentiss special meeting except for those described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. If any other matter not described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is properly presented at the meeting, the proxy holders will use their own judgment to determine how to vote your Prentiss common shares. If the meeting is adjourned or postponed, your Prentiss common shares may be voted by the proxy holders on the new meeting date as well, unless you have revoked your proxy instructions before that date.
How You May Revoke Your Proxy Instructions |
To revoke your proxy instructions, you must (1) so advise the Secretary of Prentiss, Gregory S. Imhoff, c/o Prentiss Properties Trust, 3890 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75220, in writing or by facsimile before your Prentiss common shares have been voted by the proxy holders at the meeting, (2) execute and deliver a subsequently dated proxy, or (3) attend the meeting and vote your Prentiss common shares in person. If you hold shares in street name and you would like to revoke an earlier vote, please check with your broker and follow the voting procedures your broker provides.
Cost of this Proxy Solicitation |
The accompanying proxy is being solicited on behalf of Prentiss board of trustees. Each of Brandywine and Prentiss will pay one-half of the expense of preparing, printing and mailing the proxy and materials used in the solicitation. MacKenzie Partners, Inc. has been retained by Brandywine and Prentiss to aid in the solicitation of proxies from their respective shareholders for an aggregate fee of $25,000 and the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. Proxies may also be solicited from Prentiss shareholders by personal interview, telephone and telegram by Prentiss trustees, officers and employees, who will not receive additional compensation for performing that service. Arrangements also will be made with brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of proxy materials to the beneficial owners of Prentiss shares held by those persons, and Prentiss will reimburse them for any reasonable expenses that they incur.
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THE MERGERS
Background of the Mergers |
In pursuing strategies for enhancing shareholder value, each of Brandywine and Prentiss from time to time has considered opportunities for acquisitions, joint ventures and other strategic alliances.
Prentiss and Lazard, its financial advisor, have from time to time explored the strategic options available to Prentiss. This included discussions with a number of other prospective public buyers and their advisors throughout Lazards engagement.
Brandywines board has from time to time assessed strategic alternatives available to Brandywine. In its assessment of alternatives to enhance shareholder value, the Brandywine board has considered opportunities to replicate Brandywines regional focus in select high-growth markets outside the greater Philadelphia region through association with strong local owners and operators of commercial real estate; operating efficiencies and growth opportunities associated with an increased asset base; and enhancement of Brandywines credit profile through a larger and more diverse tenant base.
Brandywine has premised its growth strategy on acquiring and developing high quality office and industrial properties in selected markets that it expects will experience increased rental rates, increased demand for high quality office and industrial space and overall economic growth. As part of its regional focus, Brandywine dedicates to each of its markets a team of professionals having a deep and extensive knowledge of the real estate dynamics within the teams market, including leasing and construction activity, population growth, capital costs and other factors that bear on profitability and growth prospects.
Through relationships that pre-dated a 2001 transaction involving an exchange of properties and continued thereafter, Brandywine and Prentiss have recognized the complementary nature of their businesses and the quality of their respective operations. The boards believe that the combination of the Brandywine and Prentiss property portfolios and management groups will (i) enhance the growth prospects and the quality of the combined company, (ii) increase the diversity of the tenant and asset base of the combined company and (iii) deepen the management expertise of the combined company. The boards further believe that the cash infusion from Prudential for a portion of the Prentiss assets will enable the combination to be completed on financial terms that maintain Brandywines investment grade ratings and financial metrics.
In April 2001, Brandywine and Prentiss completed an exchange of properties. As part of that transaction, Brandywine acquired from Prentiss 30 properties, located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, that contain an aggregate of approximately 1.6 million net rentable square feet and conveyed to Prentiss four office properties located in Northern Virginia that contain an aggregate of approximately 657,000 net rentable square feet and its 25% interest in a real estate joint venture that owned two office properties that contain an aggregate of approximately 452,000 net rentable square feet.
Subsequent to the April 2001 transaction, Gerard H. Sweeney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Brandywine, had occasional conversations with Michael V. Prentiss, Chairman of the board of trustees of Prentiss, and Thomas F. August, President and Chief Executive Officer of Prentiss. These conversations were general in nature and primarily related to the competitive dynamics in the REIT industry.
In Winter and Spring 2003 and the Summer 2004, Prentiss held substantive discussions with two other public REITs, concerning a potential merger transaction. However, each of these discussions was terminated before an agreement was reached due to differences in pricing expectations.
On February 1, 2005, the Prentiss board of trustees called a special meeting to discuss strategic alternatives of Prentiss and to assess the possibility of a strategic business combination in light of previous contacts that Prentiss had had with other REITs on this topic. At the direction of the Prentiss board of trustees, Mr. Prentiss contacted Matthew Lustig of Lazard to explore the possibility of a strategic business combination.
On March 16, 2005, Brandywines board of trustees met with representatives of JPMorgan to discuss in broad terms capital and investment activity in the REIT market, Brandywines competitive position within the REIT market and possible strategic alternatives available to Brandywine. Part of the discussion addressed the
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rationale for a combination with Prentiss, among other companies, and JPMorgan presented a preliminary analysis of the financial and strategic implications of a business combination between Brandywine and Prentiss.
On April 18, 2005 Prentiss publicly announced in its earnings release for the first quarter of 2005 that it had engaged Holliday Fenoglio Fowler, L.P. to actively pursue the sale of its Midwest portfolio, comprised of 17 office and four industrial properties.
Brandywine viewed the April 18th announcement by Prentiss, and the migration of Prentiss towards a more regionally focused owner of office and industrial properties, as complementary of its operating strategy. Working with JPMorgan, Brandywine approached several institutional investors, including Prudential, to discuss their interest in teaming up with Brandywine to develop a framework whereby the institutional investor would acquire a portion of the Prentiss assets and submarkets concurrently with Brandywines overall acquisition of Prentiss. Brandywine believed this team approach would assist it in replicating its strategy of regional focus and submarket concentration and allow it to consummate a combination with Prentiss on terms that would maintain its credit profile and allow for future acquisition and development activity.
In May through June of 2005, senior executives of Prentiss held several separate preliminary discussions with senior executives of each of Brandywine and another public REIT to discuss a potential transaction with each of them.
On May 2, 2005, Mr. Sweeney updated the board of trustees on the status of discussions with representatives of Prentiss.
On May 10, 2005, Mr. Sweeney, together with representatives of JPMorgan, and Gary Kauffman, a Managing Director of Prudential, held a conference call. The participants on the call discussed Prudentials interest in acquiring assets as a participant with Brandywine in a strategic business combination between Brandywine and Prentiss. Although general in nature, the discussion related to Prudentials willingness to acquire a portion of the Prentiss property portfolio in conjunction with the consummation of Brandywines acquisition of Prentiss.
Following the May 10, 2005 conference call, Mr. Sweeney, other members of senior management, representatives of JPMorgan and of Prudential continued to discuss the framework for a Brandywine acquisition of Prentiss, coupled with a concurrent acquisition by Prudential of a portion of the Prentiss portfolio. In these discussions, Mr. Sweeney and Mr. Kauffman agreed to defer any decision on which Prentiss assets Prudential would acquire until each of Brandywine and Prudential had independently completed its underwriting, due diligence and valuation of each of the Prentiss properties.
On June 8, 2005, Messrs. Sweeney and August met for dinner at a NAREIT conference in New York. In this dinner, they discussed the framework of a potential business combination between Brandywine and Prentiss in conjunction with an acquisition by Prudential of a portion of the Prentiss portfolio. Mr. August indicated that he would review the discussion with Mr. Prentiss and would expect to continue discussions with Mr. Sweeney.
On June 15, 2005, Brandywines board met with senior management, representatives of JPMorgan and Brandywines legal advisors to address financial and legal issues associated with a business combination with Prentiss. In this meeting JPMorgan updated its analysis of the financial and strategic implications of a business combination between Brandywine and Prentiss. Mr. Sweeney also reviewed with the board the discussions with Prudential.
On June 16, 2005, Mr. Prentiss met with Mr. Sweeney in Baltimore to review aspects of a proposed business combination and consider the merits and assess alternate structures for the transaction, including the proposed acquisition by Prudential of a portion of the Prentiss portfolio.
On June 24, 2005, Prentiss and the other public REIT each executed a confidentiality agreement to enable them to discuss potential combinations in greater detail.
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On June 27, 2005, Messrs. Sweeney, Prentiss, August and Kauffman, together with James Walker, a Prudential executive, met in Boston to further review the framework of a transaction among Prentiss, Brandywine and Prudential. At the meeting they addressed the strategic rationale for a combination between Brandywine and Prentiss and discussed alternate structures for the transaction, including an acquisition by Prudential of a portion of the Prentiss portfolio.
Following the June 27, 2005 meeting in Boston, Mr. Prentiss individually contacted the members of the Prentiss board of trustees to inform them of the discussions at the Boston meeting.
On July 5, 2005, Brandywine and Prentiss entered into a confidentiality agreement to enable Brandywine and Prentiss to conduct additional due diligence in connection with the possible business combination. A series of meetings and conference calls were held thereafter, during which materials relating to Prentiss were provided to Brandywine and its representatives and advisors for evaluation. In addition, materials relating to the Prentiss assets and related debt were provided to Prudential and its representatives.
During June through August 2005, Prentiss held various discussions with Lazard and another REIT regarding a potential business combination. At a meeting on July 18, 2005, the Prentiss board of trustees met with representatives of Lazard and Prentiss legal advisors and discussed the strategic rationale for a combination with each of the REITs and Brandywine. In this meeting, the Prentiss board reviewed with its financial and legal advisors the potential benefits and risks of the combinations. The Prentiss board considered the retention of management and the employees of Prentiss as an important aspect of successful integration in a merger context.
Following the July 18 Prentiss board meeting, with authorization from Prentiss, Lazard approached Brandywine and the other public REIT that had executed a confidentiality agreement with Prentiss, as well as their respective advisors.
On July 21, 2005, Mr. August advised Mr. Sweeney that the Prentiss board was receptive to receiving an acquisition proposal from Brandywine. Later on July 21, 2005, Mr. Sweeney updated the Brandywine board on the communication from Mr. August. Mr. Sweeney also indicated that he would coordinate with JPMorgan and Prudential a schedule for due diligence and valuation analyses related to the Prentiss portfolio that would form the basis for a Brandywine acquisition offer, coupled with a concurrent acquisition by Prudential of a portion of the Prentiss properties.
During July and August 2005, representatives of Brandywine, Prentiss and Prudential held numerous meetings and conference calls that addressed financial, legal and tax due diligence. In addition, representatives of Prentiss and Brandywine held meetings and conference calls during this period.
Also during July and August 2005, Brandywine and Prudential conducted a significant portion of their respective due diligence activities relating to Prentiss. These activities included lease reviews, tenant credit reviews, analyses of anticipated capital costs within the Prentiss portfolio, site tours of all of the Prentiss properties, market studies, including studies containing information on population trends, rental rates, occupancy levels and zoning and other barriers to additional supply of new properties, Prentiss capitalization methodology, general and administrative costs, the status of the sale of the Prentiss Midwest portfolio and the Prentiss organizational structure. Brandywine also reviewed with Prudential its experiences in each of the Prentiss submarkets.
On August 11, 2005, Mr. August met with Mr. Sweeney in Dallas to discuss progress on the structure of the transaction and also discuss the Dallas portfolio.
On August 24, 2005, together with their advisors, Prentiss met with Brandywine senior management and Prudential senior investment officers at Lazards offices to discuss in greater detail the Midwest disposition, capital, joint venture arrangements, personnel and other diligence topics.
On August 26, 2005, Mr. Sweeney held a conference call with the Brandywine board of trustees to update the board on managements due diligence activities and discussions with Prentiss and Prudential.
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In late August, and following several discussions between Prentiss and the other public REIT, Lazard had valuation discussions with the other public REITs advisors, who indicated that their client was not in a position at that time to make a proposal that would satisfy Prentiss financial and strategic objectives.
On August 31, 2005, the Brandywine board of trustees held a meeting at which Mr. Sweeney, together with representatives of JPMorgan and Pepper Hamilton LLP, Brandywines legal counsel, provided an update on the proposed combination with Prentiss. As part of this meeting, the board reviewed the status of the discussions with Prentiss and Prudential, preliminary asset valuations and asset allocations between Brandywine and Prudential, and the financial and strategic implications of the transaction for Brandywine. The board also discussed the treatment of Prentiss employees and post-acquisition integration activities.
On September 8, 2005, the Brandywine board again met with Mr. Sweeney, together with other members of executive management of Brandywine and representatives of JPMorgan and Pepper Hamilton LLP. In this meeting, the Board again addressed the financial and strategic implications of the proposed combination, including: (i) Brandywines due diligence of Prentiss and its properties, (ii) the preliminary range of potential terms of the Mergers (including the amount and form of merger consideration), (iii) tax aspects of the Mergers, (iv) Prudentials involvement as a purchaser of a portion of the Prentiss assets and the status of discussions between Brandywine and Prudential relative to asset valuations, asset splits and due diligence, (v) sources and uses of funds, (vi) expected handling of Prentiss employees and post-acquisition integration activities, (vii) anticipated transaction costs and (viii) terms of a proposed merger agreement. Following discussion, the Board unanimously authorized the submission of a non-binding offer letter to Prentiss, together with a draft merger agreement.
On September 9, 2005, Brandywine submitted to Prentiss a non-binding proposal for an acquisition by Brandywine of Prentiss. The proposal indicated that both the Brandywine board and Prudential had authorized the submission of the proposal. The letter contemplated that Brandywine would acquire each outstanding Prentiss common share for $21.25 in cash and $21.25 in Brandywine common shares. The letter addressed the integration of the Prentiss regional offices within the combined company, including Brandywines plans for integrating senior Prentiss executives with the combined company. Brandywines letter identified the confirmatory due diligence it and Prudential would expect to complete prior to entering into definitive agreements. Included with the letter was a draft merger agreement.
Prior to submitting the offer letter on September 9, 2005, Brandywine and Prudential had reached an understanding of the properties that Prudential would likely acquire as part of the transaction. This understanding, reached after each party had independently completed its property-by-property underwriting and valuation, reflected a variety of considerations, including the submarket preferences of the parties, anticipated operating efficiencies associated with property allocations, and the ease of assimilation of the Prentiss joint ventures and debt financings.
On September 11, 2005, representatives from Pepper Hamilton LLP, KPMG LLP and JPMorgan, on behalf of Brandywine, representatives from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, Ernst & Young LLP and Lazard, on behalf of Prentiss, and representatives from Goodwin Proctor LLP, on behalf of Prudential, addressed tax issues associated with different approaches to Brandywines proposed acquisition of Prentiss, coupled with a concurrent disposition of selected assets and markets to Prudential.
During the week of September 12, 2005, Prentiss raised issues with the initial offer of $42.50 and countered with $43.50.
On September 12, 2005, Brandywine and Prentiss and their respective representatives held conference calls to discuss the initial draft of the merger agreement. Representatives of the parties addressed several issues, including the desirability of a fixed exchange ratio, the implications of a cash-share election feature versus a pre-established split of cash and shares as part of the merger consideration, break-up fees and an alternative termination fee payable by either party upon satisfaction of certain conditions. Prentiss also requested that it be entitled to appoint two members to Brandywines board of trustees following the REIT Merger.
From September 13 through September 16, 2005, the parties continued to negotiate the terms of the merger agreement and perform due diligence. Brandywine and its financial, legal and tax representatives
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engaged in several discussions with Prentiss regarding the benefits and feasibility of a tax deferred transaction.
On September 16, 2005, Akin, Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, counsel to Prentiss, distributed a revised draft of the proposed merger agreement to Pepper Hamilton LLP, counsel to Brandywine.
On September 19, 2005, Brandywine and Prentiss and their respective representatives held a conference call to discuss the merger agreement.
On September 20, 2005, Pepper Hamilton LLP distributed a revised draft of the proposed merger agreement to Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP.
On September 20, 2005, Brandywines board met to discuss the potential combination. Brandywines senior management and its legal and financial advisors updated the board on the status of financial, business and legal due diligence and the status of negotiations, including (i) the proposed exchange ratio, (ii) the proposed breakup fees and (iii) discussions regarding post-merger board seats. JPMorgan also reviewed with Brandywines board financial analyses of the REIT Merger, including pro forma information reflecting the proposed transaction, and Brandywines legal advisors from Pepper Hamilton LLP reviewed the terms of the merger agreement and the boards obligations under Maryland law.
From September 20, 2005 to September 29, 2005 Brandywine and Prentiss continued to negotiate the terms of the merger agreement and Brandywine and Prudential continued to negotiate the terms under which Prudential would acquire a portion of the Prentiss portfolio.
On September 21, 2005, Messrs. Prentiss and August met in Philadelphia with Messrs. Sweeney and two other Brandywine trustees, Messrs. DAlessio and Aloian. In the meeting they discussed the strategic vision and management structure of the combined company and integration plans for the combined company.
On September 22, 2005, Brandywine increased its offer from $42.50 to $43.00 and Prentiss indicated this was acceptable subject to resolution of the overall terms of the transaction.
During the week of September 26, 2005, the parties continued to address the tax consequences of the proposed Mergers and related asset sale to Prudential. Following discussion and analysis, the parties agreed that if the private letter ruling was received prior to the REIT Merger, then Prudential would acquire the Prudential properties immediately following the closing of the REIT Merger; and if the private letter ruling was not received prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, then Prudential would acquire the properties on the day prior to the REIT Merger closing.
On September 29, 2005, the board of trustees of Prentiss met to review the status of the merger agreement and related transactions. To prepare for this meeting, trustees were provided due diligence materials prepared by legal counsel, and copies of a draft merger agreement and voting agreements. At this meeting, Prentiss legal counsel and senior management reviewed with the Prentiss board the results of the companys financial, business and legal due diligence examinations and the terms of the merger agreement and the voting agreements. Legal counsel gave a detailed presentation of the terms and structure of the proposed merger and related transaction as well as the legal duties and responsibilities facing the board of trustees with respect to the Mergers. Also at this meeting, the board received a presentation from Lazard on the financial aspects of the proposed merger transaction. In addition, the Prentiss board discussed: (i) the financial terms of the proposed transaction with Brandywine; (ii) the potential benefits of such a business combination; (iii) the potential conditions to the completion of the transaction, including approvals of Prentiss shareholders; and (iv) the tax consequences of the proposed Mergers and the Prudential Acquisition.
On September 29, 2005 the board of trustees of Brandywine met with its legal and financial advisors to review the status of the merger agreement and related transactions.
On September 29, 2005, JPMorgan delivered to Brandywine a draft commitment letter setting forth proposed terms under which JPMorgan would agree to structure, arrange and syndicate credit facilities, consisting of a term loan facility, revolving credit facility and an interim term loan facility, in connection with the REIT Merger. Between September 29, 2005 and October 2, 2005, representatives of Brandywine and JPMorgan negotiated the terms and conditions of the JPMorgan financing commitment.
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Between September 29, 2005 and October 2, 2005, Brandywine and Prentiss continued to negotiate the terms of the merger agreement and related agreements, and Brandywine, Prentiss and Prudential continued to negotiate the terms of the agreements under which Prudential would acquire a portion of the Prentiss portfolio.
On October 2, 2005 the board of trustees of Prentiss met telephonically with its legal and financial advisors. At this meeting, Lazard rendered its oral opinion, which was subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated October 3, 2005, that, as of that date, the per share consideration of $21.50 in cash plus 0.69 Brandywine shares to be paid to the Prentiss common shareholders (including, if the Reverse REIT Merger is to be consummated, the payment of the Special Dividend) is fair from a financial point of view to the public holders of Prentiss common shares. After additional discussion and deliberation, the Prentiss board of trustees unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, and the Prudential Purchase Agreement and recommended that the Prentiss common shareholders approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
On October 2, 2005 the board of trustees of Brandywine met telephonically with its legal and financial advisors. To prepare for this meeting, trustees were provided updated materials prepared by legal counsel, and copies of a draft merger agreement and other transactional documents. At this meeting, Brandywines legal counsel and senior management reviewed with the Brandywine board the results of their financial, business and legal due diligence examinations and the terms of the merger agreement and other transactional documents. Legal counsel gave a detailed presentation of the terms and structure of the proposed merger and related transaction as well as the legal duties and responsibilities facing the board of trustees with respect to the Mergers. Also at this meeting, JPMorgan rendered its oral opinion to the board of trustees of Brandywine that, as of that date and based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its opinion, the Brandywine Consideration to be paid by Brandywine in the proposed Transactions for the Pro Forma Company was fair, from a financial point of view, to Brandywine. JPMorgan confirmed its oral opinion by delivering a written opinion dated October 2, 2005. After additional discussion and deliberation, Brandywines board of trustees unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, and the master agreement and recommended that Brandywines shareholders approve the issuance of Brandywine shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
On October 3, 2005, Prudentials investment committee met to approve Prudentials execution of the master agreement and the Prudential asset purchase agreement and Prudentials acquisition of a portion of the Prentiss properties.
Thereafter on October 3, 2005, Brandywine, Prentiss and Prudential executed and delivered, as applicable, the merger agreement and related documents, and Brandywine and JPMorgan executed the debt financing commitment letter. The transaction was publicly announced on October 3, 2005.
Recommendation of the Brandywine Board of Trustees and Brandywines Reasons for the REIT Merger |
Recommendation of Brandywines Board of Trustees.
Brandywines board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Brandywine and its shareholders. Brandywines board of trustees unanimously recommends that Brandywine common shareholders vote FOR approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
Brandywines Reasons for the REIT Merger.
In determining whether to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, Brandywines board of trustees considered a variety of factors that might impact the short-term and long-term interests of Brandywine and its shareholders. As part of its deliberations, Brandywines board of trustees took into consideration the support of the Mergers by Brandywines senior management and considered the historical, recent and prospective financial condition, results of operations, property holdings, share price,
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capitalization, and operating, strategic and financial risks of Brandywine and Prentiss, considered separately for each entity and on a combined basis for the combined company.
In its determination, Brandywines board consulted with Brandywine senior management, as well as its financial and legal advisors, and considered a number of factors, including, among others, the following positive factors (the order does not reflect the relative significance):
| Strategic Expansion in Select Markets. The opportunity for the combined company to replicate Brandywines regional approach to owning and managing real estate in three dynamic markets where Prentiss has a strong presence: Metro Washington, D.C., Oakland,
California and Austin, Texas, each of which is projected to have higher rental rate and job growth characteristics than Brandywines current markets. |
| Continuity of Operations Through Experienced Management Teams. The continuation, with the combined company, of key Prentiss executives having a deep and extensive knowledge of the markets where Brandywine will concentrate its post-merger activities, and the
expectation that the continuation will promote an efficient integration of Brandywine and Prentiss. |
| Efficiency of a Portfolio Acquisition. The opportunity to acquire through a single transaction a portfolio of high-quality properties, together with an experienced management team, that could not be easily replicated through acquisitions of individual assets. |
| Increased Development Pipeline. The value-added development opportunities in high growth markets afforded to Brandywine by the developable land owned by Prentiss. |
| Diversification of Property Portfolio. The benefit to Brandywines credit profile from its ownership of properties having a larger and more diverse tenant base. |
| Additional Capital Deployment Opportunities. The ability of the combined company to generate internal capital and to deploy its capital in an increased number of core-targeted markets, affording the combined company more consistent avenues of growth. |
| Capital Recycling Opportunities. The reinvestment opportunities that result from dispositions of, or joint venture arrangements in, select properties within the combined portfolio which will provide the combined company internal capital to grow its asset base in core
targeted markets. |
| Expansion of Relationships with Third Parties including Prudential Properties and Stichting Pensioenfond ABP. The expectation that the relationships formed in the REIT Merger, including through Brandywines engagement to manage and lease Prudential Properties
following the REIT Merger and Prentiss joint venture relationship with Stichting Pensioenfond ABP, will generate additional investment opportunities. |
| Positive Rating Agency Reaction. The report of Brandywines management based on conversations with the rating agencies to the effect that the rating agencies viewed the transaction favorably and would likely affirm Brandywines ratings, giving effect to the REIT
Merger. |
| Per Share Accretion. The anticipated accretion to Brandywines per share funds from operations beginning in 2006. |
| Greater Financial Flexibility and Liquidity. The expected increased access to debt and equity capital and acquisition opportunities, and greater liquidity for Brandywines shareholders, resulting from the geographic diversity and additional balance sheet capacity that the
REIT Merger will provide. |
| Opinion of Financial Advisor. JPMorgans opinion dated October 2, 2005 that, as of that date and based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its opinion, the Brandywine Consideration to be paid by Brandywine in the proposed Transactions for the
Pro Forma Company was fair, from a financial point of view, to Brandywine, and the related financial presentation presented to the board of trustees of Brandywine in connection therewith. |
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Brandywines board of trustees recognized that there are risks associated with the Mergers and the merger agreement, including the following risks (the order does not reflect the relative significance):
| Integration Risks. The operations, technologies and personnel of the two companies may not be successfully integrated. The Mergers will include risks commonly associated with similar transactions, including unanticipated liabilities, unanticipated costs and diversion of
managements attention. The combined company may also experience operational interruptions or the loss of key employees or customers. |
| Uncertainty as to Accretion. The combined company may not realize the accretion to per share funds from operations that Brandywine expects from the Mergers. It is possible that the Mergers may be dilutive to per share funds from operations or one or more other
measures of the combined companys financial performance in the future. Future events that could reduce or eliminate such accretion or cause such dilution include adverse changes in: |
| the expected costs of the Mergers and the expected costs of integrating the Prentiss business with Brandywines business; |
| the combined companys ability to achieve anticipated cost savings from the Mergers; and |
| general economic conditions and their effect on the REIT industry, including the combined company. |
| Expenses of the Mergers. Brandywine
and Prentiss are expected to incur one-time, pre-tax closing costs
of approximately $55.5 million in connection with the Mergers (which
include real estate transfer taxes of approximately $14.2 million and
financing costs of approximately $21.2 million) and one-time pre-tax
expenses of approximately $40.4 million related to change in control,
severance and other benefit payments to Prentiss executive officers
that are triggered by the REIT Merger and severance expenses related
to
headcount reductions after the Mergers are completed. Brandywine also expects
to incur one-time, pre-tax cash and non-cash costs related to the integration
of Brandywine and Prentiss, which cannot be estimated at this time.
The combined company may incur additional unanticipated costs and
expenses in connection with the Mergers. |
| Possible Repayment/Refinancing
of Debt of Prentiss. Consummation of the Mergers could trigger a mandatory prepayment (including a penalty in some cases) of Prentiss debt unless appropriate lender consents or waivers are received. If those consents and waivers
cannot be obtained prior to consummation of the Mergers, the existing debt of Prentiss might need to be repaid and/or refinanced. This may result in higher than-anticipated transaction expenses to Brandywine. |
| Fixed Merger Consideration. The exchange ratio is fixed and will not fluctuate as a result of changes in the price of Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares. Changes in the price of Brandywine common shares and/or Prentiss common shares could cause
the premium being paid by Brandywine to acquire Prentiss to increase. |
| Termination Fee. Brandywine may be required to pay a termination fee of $12.5 million and up to $6 million in termination expenses to Prentiss plus reimbursement for unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses and any lost deposits related to Prentiss termination of a
proposed loan related to its Barton Skyway property if the merger agreement is terminated because Brandywine fails to fulfill its obligations under the merger agreement, including calling or holding a special meeting of its shareholders, or Brandywines common
shareholders do not approve the proposal for the issuance of Brandywine common shares at the Brandywine special meeting. See The Merger AgreementTermination. |
| Other Negative Factors. The Brandywine board of trustees also considered the other risks of the Mergers described in Risk FactorsRisks Relating to the Mergers. |
The above discussion of the factors considered by Brandywines board of trustees is not intended to be exhaustive, but does set forth the principal positive and negative factors considered by the board. Brandywines board of trustees approved the merger agreement, the Mergers and the related transactions and
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recommended approval by Brandywines shareholders of the issuance of Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement in light of the various factors described above and other factors that each member of Brandywines board of trustees believed to be appropriate.
In view of the wide variety of factors considered by Brandywines board of trustees with its evaluation of the REIT Merger and the complexity of these matters, Brandywines board of trustees did not consider it practical and did not attempt to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors it considered in reaching its decision. Rather, Brandywines board of trustees made its recommendation based on the totality of information presented to and the investigation conducted by it. In considering the factors discussed above, individual trustees may have given different weights to different factors.
Recommendation of the Prentiss Board of Trustees and the Reasons of Prentiss for the REIT Merger |
Recommendation of the Prentiss Board of Trustees.
The Prentiss board of trustees has unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and declared that the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Prentiss and its shareholders. The Prentiss board of trustees unanimously recommends that Prentiss common shareholders vote FOR the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
In determining whether to vote FOR the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, Prentiss common shareholders should be aware that some members of the Prentiss board of trustees, as well as some Prentiss executive officers, have or may have interests in the Mergers that may differ from, or are in addition to, the interests of Prentiss common shareholders generally. See Interests of the Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the Mergers.
Prentiss Reasons for the REIT Merger.
In determining whether to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions, the Prentiss board of trustees considered a variety of factors that might impact the long-term as well as short-term interests of Prentiss and its shareholders. As part of its deliberations, the Prentiss board of trustees took into consideration the support of the REIT Merger by senior management of Prentiss and considered the historical, recent and prospective financial condition, results of operations, property holdings, share price, capitalization, and operating, strategic and financial risks of Prentiss and Brandywine, considered separately for each entity and on a combined basis for the combined company.
In making the determination described above, the Prentiss board of trustees consulted with Prentiss senior management, as well as its financial and legal advisors, and considered a number of factors, including, among others, the following positive factors (the order does not reflect the relative significance):
| Strength of Combined Company. The Prentiss board of trustees belief that the combination of Prentiss and Brandywine allows Prentiss common shareholders to participate in a stronger combined company based on the anticipated greater operational and financial
flexibility of the combined company. The Prentiss board of trustees also considered the scale, scope, strength and diversification of markets and expected synergies that could be achieved by combining Prentiss and Brandywine. |
| Exchange Ratio; Cash Consideration. Prentiss believes it is beneficial that the exchange ratio is fixed and that it will not fluctuate as a result of changes in the price of Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares. |
| Premium. The premium, which was approximately 5.8% based on the closing sales price per Prentiss common share on September 30, 2005 (the last full trading day before the proposed REIT Merger was announced), that Prentiss common shareholders would receive
for their Prentiss common shares in the REIT Merger. |
| Terms of the Merger Agreement. The terms of the merger agreement, including: |
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| that each Prentiss common share will be converted into the right to receive $21.50 in cash and 0.69 of a Brandywine common share; |
| that the Prentiss board of trustees has the right to respond to, and engage in discussions or negotiations regarding, unsolicited third party proposals for competing transactions under specified circumstances if the Prentiss board of trustees concludes in good faith that
the proposal is reasonably likely to result in a superior proposal; |
| the fact that the completion of the REIT Merger is not conditioned on Brandywine or Prentiss obtaining third party consents, governmental approvals or financing; and |
| The requirement for Brandywine to pay a $12.5 million termination fee and up to $6 million in termination expenses to Prentiss plus reimbursement for unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses and any lost deposits related to Prentiss termination of a proposed loan
related to its Barton Skyway property if the merger agreement is terminated because Brandywine fails to fulfill its obligations under the merger agreement, including calling or holding a special meeting of its shareholders, or Brandywines common shareholders do
not approve the proposal for the issuance of Brandywine common shares at the Brandywine special meeting. See The Merger AgreementTermination. |
| Board Representation. Two current members of the Prentiss board of trustees, Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August, will serve for a period of time on the board of trustees of the combined company. |
| Due Diligence Review. The results of the due diligence review of, among other things, Brandywines business and operations, financial condition and management practices and procedures, conducted on behalf of Prentiss by Prentiss financial, accounting and legal
advisors, as well as senior management. |
| Opinion of Financial Advisor. The Prentiss board of trustees also considered the financial presentation of Lazard, including its opinion, dated October 3, 2005, that the per share consideration of $21.50 in cash, plus 0.69 Brandywine shares to be paid to Prentiss common
shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement (including, if the Reverse REIT Merger is to be consummated pursuant to the merger agreement, the payment of the Special Dividend) is fair from a financial point of view to the Prentiss public holders of Prentiss common
shares, as more fully described elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Please see The Mergers Opinion of Prentiss Financial Advisor, Lazard Frères & Co. LLC. |
The Prentiss board of trustees also considered the following potentially negative factors, among others, in determining whether to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions (the order does not reflect the relative significance):
| Exchange Ratio. A significant portion of the consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders will be in the form of Brandywine common shares at a conversion rate that does not adjust to account for fluctuations in the market price of Brandywine common
shares between signing and closing. |
| Effect on Retaining Employees. The potential negative effect on the ability of Prentiss to retain key employees as a result of the public announcement of the Mergers or, possibly, the termination of the merger agreement. |
| Integration Risks. The operations, technologies and personnel of the two companies may not be successfully integrated. The Mergers will include risks commonly associated with similar transactions, including unanticipated liabilities, unanticipated costs and diversion of
managements attention. The combined company may also experience operational interruptions or the loss of key employees or customers. |
|
| Geographic Risk. The Mergers will expose the combined company to the general economic conditions of new markets in which Brandywine was not previously involved. The Mergers will |
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result in significant expansion of Brandywines market focus from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Wilmington, Delaware; Southern and Central New Jersey; and Richmond, Virginia to
include Metropolitan Washington, D.C., Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, Oakland, Silicon Valley, San Diego and Los Angeles. |
| Risk That the Mergers Will not be Completed. The potential for significant loss of value by Prentiss common shareholders, as well as the potential negative impact upon the operations and prospects of an independent Prentiss, in the event that the Mergers are not
completed, resulting from, among other things: |
| the significant costs and substantial management time and effort devoted to negotiation and consummation of the Mergers; |
| the requirement for Prentiss to pay a termination fee of $12.5 million or $60 million to Brandywine under certain specified circumstances; and |
| the requirement for Prentiss to pay termination expenses of up to $6 million to Brandywine under certain specified circumstances. |
| Interests of Certain Prentiss Trustees and Executive Officers. The Prentiss board of trustees considered the potential benefits to certain of Prentiss trustees and executive officers, including severance payments and acceleration of vesting of options. See Interests of
Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the Mergers. |
The above discussion of the factors considered by the Prentiss board of trustees is not intended to be exhaustive, but does set forth the principal positive and negative factors considered by the Prentiss board of trustees. The Prentiss board of trustees unanimously approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions and recommended the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions by the Prentiss common shareholders in light of the various factors described above and other factors that each member of the Prentiss board of trustees felt were appropriate.
In view of the wide variety of factors considered by the Prentiss board of trustees in connection with its evaluation of the REIT Merger and the complexity of these matters, the Prentiss board of trustees did not consider it practical and did not attempt to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors it considered in reaching its decision. Rather, the Prentiss board of trustees made its recommendation based on the totality of information presented to and the investigation conducted by it. In considering the factors discussed above, individual trustees may have given different weights to different factors.
Opinion of Brandywines Financial Advisor, JPMorgan |
At a meeting of the board of trustees of Brandywine on October 2, 2005, JPMorgan rendered its oral opinion to the Brandywine board of trustees that, as of that date and based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its opinion, the Brandywine Consideration (as defined in the next paragraph) to be paid by Brandywine in the proposed Transactions (as defined in the next paragraph) for the Pro Forma Company (as defined in the next paragraph) was fair, from a financial point of view, to Brandywine. JPMorgan confirmed its oral opinion by delivering a written opinion dated October 2, 2005.
For purposes of JPMorgans opinion Transactions means one of two alternative structures provided for by the merger agreement and master agreement (collectively, the Agreements), each including a series of mergers and other transactions, pursuant to and after giving effect to which: (i) Prudential will acquire, directly or indirectly, the Prentiss Properties (the Prudential Transaction) for $747.7 million in cash and assumed debt, subject to a potential $150.0 million reduction to as low as $597.7 million in cash and assumed debt (the Prudential Adjustment) if Prudential elects to drop properties (as referred to in the master agreement) and not to acquire certain of the Prentiss Properties as contemplated in the Agreements (Prentiss, after giving effect to such series of transactions including the Prudential Transaction and Prudential Adjustment, if applicable, and any related dividends, distributions or exchanges, and including all the outstanding equity interests of Prentiss Operating Partnership, hereinafter referred to as the Pro Forma Company); and (ii) Brandywine and/or Brandywine Operating Partnership will acquire, directly or indirectly,
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all of the outstanding equity interest of the Pro Forma Company. Also, for purposes of JPMorgans opinion Brandywine Consideration means the consideration to be paid by Brandywine and/ or Brandywine Operating Partnership to the shareholders of Prentiss and the holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units in the Transactions for the acquisition of the Pro Forma Company which will consist of, in the aggregate, up to $424 million in cash and 35.5 million Brandywine common shares, subject to (i) increases or decreases in the number of outstanding Prentiss common shares and Prentiss Operating Partnership common units permitted under the Agreements, if any, and adjustments for any share splits or similar events with respect to Prentiss common shares and Brandywine common shares as contemplated in the Agreements; and (ii) a potential increase of the cash amount of $424 million to be paid by Brandywine to the shareholders of Prentiss and the holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units in the event of the Prudential Adjustment, if applicable, to the extent of the cash portion of such adjustment.
The full text of the written opinion of JPMorgan, which sets forth, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and limitations on the review undertaken by JPMorgan in connection with the opinion, is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Annex D and is incorporated in this joint proxy statement/prospectus by reference. Holders of Brandywine common shares are urged to, and should, read JPMorgans opinion carefully and in its entirety. The summary of JPMorgans opinion set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the written opinion attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
JPMorgans opinion is limited to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to Brandywine of the Brandywine Consideration to be paid in the proposed Transactions for the Pro Forma Company as contemplated by the Agreements. JPMorgans opinion does not address any other aspect of the Transactions and does not constitute an opinion as to the fairness of the Transactions (or any consideration paid therein) to holders of any class of securities, creditors or other constituencies of Brandywine or Brandywine Operating Partnership or as to the underlying decision by Brandywine or Brandywine Operating Partnership to engage in the Transactions. Moreover, JPMorgan expressed no opinion as to the price at which Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares will trade at any future time. The JPMorgan opinion is not a recommendation as to how any holder of Brandywine common shares should vote with respect to the Transactions or any other matter.
In arriving at its opinion, JPMorgan, among other things:
| reviewed drafts dated September 30, 2005 of the Agreements, |
| reviewed certain publicly available business and financial information concerning Prentiss, the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine and the industries in which they operate, |
| compared the proposed financial terms of the Transactions with the publicly available financial terms of certain transactions involving companies JPMorgan deemed relevant and the consideration received for such companies, |
| compared the financial and operating performance of the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine with publicly available information concerning certain other companies JPMorgan deemed relevant and reviewed the current and historical market prices of Prentiss common
shares and Brandywine common shares and certain publicly traded securities of such other companies, |
| reviewed certain internal financial analyses and forecasts prepared and/or reviewed by the managements of Prentiss and Brandywine relating to the businesses of the Pro Forma Company and prepared by the management of Brandywine relating to the business of
Brandywine, including the estimated amount and timing of the cost savings and related expenses and synergies expected to result from the Transactions (the Synergies), and |
| performed such other financial studies and analyses and considered such other information as JPMorgan deemed appropriate for the purposes of its opinion. |
JPMorgan also held discussions with certain members of the management of Prentiss and Brandywine with respect to certain aspects of the Transactions, and the past and current business operations of Prentiss, the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine, the financial condition and future prospects and operations of
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Prentiss, the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine, the effects of the Transactions on the financial condition and future prospects of the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine, and certain other matters that JPMorgan believed necessary or appropriate to its inquiry.
JPMorgan relied upon and assumed, without assuming responsibility or liability for independent verification, the accuracy and completeness of all information that was publicly available or was furnished to or discussed with it by Prentiss and Brandywine or otherwise reviewed by or for it. JPMorgan did not conduct, nor was it provided with, any valuation or appraisal of any assets or liabilities, nor did it evaluate the solvency of Prentiss, the Pro Forma Company or Brandywine under any state or federal laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. In relying on financial analyses and forecasts provided to it, including the Synergies, JPMorgan assumed that they were reasonably prepared based on assumptions reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments by management as to the expected future results of operations and financial condition of the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine to which such analyses or forecasts relate. JPMorgan expressed no view as to such analyses or forecasts (including the Synergies) or the assumptions on which they were based. JPMorgan also assumed that the Transactions will have the tax consequences as specified to it by the management of Brandywine and its counsel, and that the Transactions contemplated by the Agreements, including the Prudential Transaction, will be consummated as described in the Agreements (without there occurring any swaps, exchanges or substitutions of properties constituting the Prentiss Properties potentially contemplated by the merger agreement and without Brandywine having elected to pay to Prudential any excess amounts for Eligible Remediation Costs (as defined in the master agreement), in each case, to the extent that could be material to its analysis), and that the definitive Agreements will not differ in any material respects from the drafts thereof furnished to it. JPMorgan also assumed that (i) in all aspects which could be material to its analysis, the previously announced dispositions by Prentiss of its properties in the Chicago area and Detroit area, or substantial equivalents thereof, would be consummated prior to the acquisition of the Pro Forma Company by Brandywine; (ii) as Brandywine instructed JPMorgan, for purposes of its analysis, the impact on the Pro Forma Company of any of the Prentiss Properties being dropped as part of a Prudential Adjustment shall be deemed to be an increase to reflect the relevant financial contribution of the dropped Prentiss Properties equaling the product of (x) the percentage amount of the Prentiss Properties dropped and (y) the blended aggregate of the relevant financial contribution of the Prentiss Properties taken as a whole; (iii) any cash or Brandywine common shares that may be provided by Brandywine to Brandywine Operating Partnership for purposes of the Transactions will not result in any dilution of Brandywines equity interest in Brandywine Operating Partnership; and (iv) JPMorgan assumed for purposes of its analysis that all Series D preferred shares will be converted into Prentiss common shares. JPMorgan relied as to all legal matters relevant to rendering its opinion upon the advice of counsel. JPMorgan further assumed that all material governmental, regulatory or other consents and approvals necessary for the consummation of the Transactions would be obtained without any adverse effect on the Pro Forma Company or Brandywine or on the contemplated benefits of the Transactions.
JPMorgan necessarily based its opinions on economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to JPMorgan, as of the date of its opinion. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect JPMorgans opinion and that JPMorgan does not have any obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its opinion.
The following is a brief summary of the material financial analyses that JPMorgan used in providing its opinion to Brandywines board of trustees. Some of the summaries of financial analyses include information presented in tabular format. In order to understand the financial analyses used by JPMorgan more fully, you should read the tables together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not constitute a complete description of JPMorgans financial analyses, including the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, and if viewed in isolation could create a misleading or incomplete view of the financial analyses performed by JPMorgan.
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Pro Forma Company Comparable Public Companies Analysis.
Using publicly available information, JPMorgan compared selected financial data of the Pro Forma Company with similar data for selected publicly traded companies engaged in businesses which JPMorgan judged to be analogous to the Pro Forma Company. The companies selected by JPMorgan were:
| Liberty Property Trust |
| Mack-Cali Realty Corporation |
| HRPT Properties Trust |
| Reckson Associates Realty Corp. |
| Maguire Properties, Inc. |
| Arden Realty, Inc. |
| CarrAmerica Realty Corporation |
| Highwoods Properties, Inc. |
| Brandywine Realty Trust |
| Corporate Office Properties Trust |
| Kilroy Realty Corporation |
| PS Business Parks, Inc. |
| Parkway Properties, Inc. |
These companies were selected, among other reasons, because of their specialization in the office REIT sector, geographic location, asset quality, market capitalization and capital structure. For each comparable company, JPMorgan analyzed financial performance data that was publicly available through September 29, 2005. JPMorgan calculated the multiples of stock price as of September 29, 2005 to Wall Street equity analysts estimates for 2006 consensus funds from operations (FFO) as reported by First Call for each of these companies to determine estimated 2006 FFO trading multiples. The following table presents the summary results of this analysis:
Price/FFO | ||||
Average |
13.0x | |||
Median |
12.4x | |||
High |
17.1x | |||
Low |
9.6x |
JPMorgan selected a range of multiples around the 2006 FFO median value for each multiple, resulting in a range of 12.0x to 14.0x. These multiples were then applied to the Pro Forma Companys 2006 FFO per fully diluted share estimate based on Prentiss managements projections yielding an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company fully diluted shares (assuming in all cases completion of the Prudential Transaction, the Pro Forma Company shares) of approximately $28.49 to $33.24 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied firm values for the Pro Forma Company of approximately $2,422 million to $2,666 million. For purposes of calculating firm values for the Pro Forma Company (Pro Forma Company firm value), based on estimates provided by Prentiss management, JPMorgan assumed 51.4 million Prentiss fully diluted shares (Prentiss shares). For purposes of calculating firm values for the Pro Forma Company (Pro Forma Company firm value), based on estimates provided by Prentiss management, JPMorgan assumed 51.4 million Prentiss shares, $984.1 million of debt, $52.3 million of minority interest, $11.6 million in cash, $67.1 million of Prentiss assumed debt and excluded $104.1 million of transaction costs. The same analysis was done assuming a Prudential Adjustment of $150 million yielding an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $30.75 to $35.88 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,511 million to $2,814 million.
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Pro Forma Company Precedent Transactions Analysis.
Using publicly available information, JPMorgan examined selected transactions within both the Pro Forma Companys industry segment and the overall REIT industry. Specifically, JPMorgan reviewed the following transactions:
Announced Date |
Acquirer | Target | |||||
09/06/2005 |
DRA Advisors LLC | Capital Automotive REIT | |||||
06/17/2005 |
DRA Advisors LLC | CRT Properties, Inc. | |||||
06/06/2005 |
ING Clarion Partners | Gables Residential Trust | |||||
06/02/2005 |
Prologis | Catellus Development Corporation | |||||
04/12/2005 |
Ventas, Inc. | Provident Senior Living Trust | |||||
02/17/2005 |
The Lightstone Group LLC | Prime Group Realty Trust | |||||
12/20/2004 |
Centro Properties Group and Watt Family Properties | Kramont Realty Trust | |||||
10/25/2004 |
Colonial Properties Trust | Cornerstone Realty Income Trust, Inc. | |||||
10/04/2004 |
Camden Property Trust | Summit Properties, Inc. | |||||
08/25/2004 |
PL Retail LLC (joint venture between Kimco Realty Corporation and clients of DRA Advisors LLC) | Price Legacy Corporation | |||||
08/20/2004 |
General Growth Properties, Inc. | The Rouse Company | |||||
06/21/2004 |
Simon Property Group, Inc. | Chelsea Property Group, Inc. | |||||
05/03/2004 |
Prologis and Eaton Vance Corp. | Keystone Property Trust | |||||
05/14/2003 |
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust | Crown America Realty Trust | |||||
05/29/2003 |
Hometown America L.L.C. | Chateau Communities, Inc. | |||||
05/08/2003 |
CNL Hospitality Corporation | RFS Hotel Investors, Inc. |
JPMorgan selected these transactions because they may be considered similar to the Transactions. JPMorgan calculated the multiples of offer price to forward FFO per share as reported by First Call for each of these transactions to determine estimated 2006 FFO trading multiples. The following table presents the summary results of this analysis:
Offer Price/ Forward FFO per share | ||||
Mean |
14.2x | |||
Median |
14.7x | |||
High |
20.1x | |||
Low |
6.9x |
JPMorgan selected a range of multiples around the offer price to forward FFO per share median value, resulting in a range of approximately 13.0x to 15.0x. JPMorgan applied the range of multiples derived from such analysis to Prentiss managements projections for 2006 FFO per fully diluted share for the Pro Forma Company and arrived at an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $30.87 to $35.62, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,544 million to $2,788 million. The same analysis was done assuming a Prudential Adjustment of $150 million and JPMorgan arrived at an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $33.31 to $38.44, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,683 million to $2,946 million.
Pro Forma Company Discounted Cash Flow Analysis.
JPMorgan conducted a discounted cash flow analysis based on projections provided by Prentiss management, and reviewed by Brandywine management, for the purpose of determining an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares based on a valuation date of January 1, 2006. JPMorgan calculated the unlevered free cash flows that the Pro Forma Company is projected by Prentiss
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management to generate during the years ended 2006 through 2014. JPMorgan calculated an implied range of terminal values for the Pro Forma Company using a range of growth rates in perpetuity for free cash flows from 2.0% to 2.5% and a range of discount rates from 8.5% to 9.5%. The unlevered free cash flows and the range of terminal values were then discounted to present value using a range of discount rates from 8.5% to 9.5%. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $27.46 to $37.37 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,264 million to $2,773 million. The same analysis was done assuming a Prudential Adjustment of $150 million and JPMorgan arrived at an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $30.31 to $40.91 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,424 million to $2,968 million.
Pro Forma Company Gross NAV/Share Analysis.
JPMorgan arrived at an estimated gross equity net asset value (NAV) by calculating a gross real estate value by applying capitalization rates of 7.2% and 7.6% to Prentiss managements projections for the Pro Forma Companys estimated 2006 real estate net operating income (NOI), adjusted by adding development assets, value from land, value of the management company, other assets and cash, less the Pro Forma Companys total debt, preferred stock, mark-to market of secured debt, and other liabilities. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $29.30 to $31.86 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,463 million to $2,595 million. The same analysis was done assuming a Prudential Adjustment of $150 million and JPMorgan arrived at an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $31.81 to $34.52 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,605 million to $2,745 million. JPMorgans capitalization rate range was based on the weighted average capitalization rate for the stabilized portfolio based on a median of comparable asset sale transaction capitalization rates by relevant markets.
Pro Forma Company Liquidation NAV/Share Analysis.
JPMorgan arrived at an estimated liquidation equity NAV by taking the estimated gross equity NAV less certain estimated transactions costs provided by Brandywine and Prentiss management and taking the present value of the estimated gross equity NAV assuming an average of twelve months to liquidate assets at a 12% discount rate. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $28.03 to $30.59 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,398 million to $2,530 million. The same analysis was done assuming a Prudential Adjustment of $150 million and JPMorgan arrived at an estimated range of implied equity values for the Pro Forma Company shares of approximately $30.54 to $33.25 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Pro Forma Company firm values of approximately $2,540 million to $2,680 million.
Brandywine Stock Trading History Analysis.
JPMorgan reviewed the historical trading prices for Brandywine common shares and noted that over the last year, as of September 29, 2005, the low closing price was $26.96 per share and that the high closing price was $33.42 per share and noted the price of Brandywine common shares as of September 29, 2005 of $30.61 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $3,100 million to $3,477 million. For purposes of calculating firm values for Brandywine (Brandywine firm value), based on estimates provided by Brandywine management, JPMorgan assumed 58.3 million Brandywine fully diluted shares (Brandywine shares), $1,458.4 million of debt, $107.5 of preferred equity and $36.1 million of cash.
Brandywine Equity Research Estimates.
JPMorgan reviewed estimates for Brandywine shares based on various Wall Street equity research estimates as of September 29, 2005 and noted a consensus price target range for Brandywine shares of $24.00 to $35.00 per share and a consensus range of NAV for Brandywine shares of $24.76 to $33.98 per share,
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which represented estimated ranges of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $2,928 million to $3,569 million and $2,972 million to $3,509 million, respectively.
Brandywine Comparable Public Companies Analysis.
Using publicly available information, JPMorgan compared selected financial data of Brandywine with similar data for selected publicly traded companies engaged in businesses which JPMorgan judged to be analogous to Brandywine. JPMorgan relied on the same set of comparable public companies as the ones used for evaluating the Pro Forma Company. JPMorgan calculated the multiples of stock price as of September 29, 2005 to Wall Street equity analysts estimates for 2006 consensus FFO as reported by First Call for each of these companies to determine estimated 2006 FFO trading multiples. The following table presents the summary results of this analysis:
Price/FFO | ||||
Average |
13.0x | |||
Median |
12.4x | |||
High |
17.1x | |||
Low |
9.6x |
JPMorgan selected a range of multiples around the 2006 FFO median value, resulting in a range of 12.0x to 14.0x. These multiples were then applied to Brandywines 2006 FFO per fully diluted share estimate, based on both the Wall Street equity analyst consensus provided by First Call and Brandywine managements projections, yielding an estimated range of implied equity values for Brandywine shares of approximately $31.80 to $37.10 ($2.65 per share) and $30.70 to $35.82 per share ($2.56 per share), respectively, which represented estimated ranges of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $3,382 million to $3,691 million and $3,319 million to $3,617 million, respectively.
Brandywine Discounted Cash Flow Analysis.
JPMorgan conducted a discounted cash flow analysis based on projections provided by Brandywine management for the purpose of determining an estimated range of implied equity values for Brandywine shares based on a valuation date of January 1, 2006. JPMorgan calculated the unlevered free cash flows that Brandywine is projected by Brandywine management to generate during the years ended 2006 through 2014. JPMorgan calculated an implied range of terminal values for Brandywine using a range of growth rates in perpetuity for free cash flows from 2.0% to 2.5% and a range of discount rates from 8.5% to 9.5%. The unlevered free cash flows and the range of terminal values were then discounted to present value using a range of discount rates from 8.5% to 9.5%. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for Brandywine shares of approximately $22.97 to $34.08 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $2,868 million to $3,515 million.
Brandywine Gross NAV/Share Analysis.
JPMorgan arrived at an estimated gross equity NAV by calculating a gross real estate value by applying capitalization rates of 7.2% and 7.6% to Brandywine management projections for Brandywines estimated 2006 real estate NOI, adjusted by adding development assets, value from land, value of the management company, other assets and cash, less Brandywines total debt, preferred stock, mark-to market of secured debt, and other liabilities. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for Brandywine shares of approximately $29.07 to $32.21 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $3,162 million to $3,383 million. JPMorgans capitalization rate range was based on the weighted average capitalization rate for the portfolio based on a median of comparable asset sale transaction capitalization rates by relevant market.
Brandywine Liquidation NAV/Share Analysis.
JPMorgan arrived at an estimated liquidation equity NAV by taking the estimated gross equity NAV less certain estimated transactions costs provided by Brandywine management and taking the present value of the estimated gross equity NAV assuming an average of twelve months to liquidate assets at a 12% discount rate. This analysis indicated an estimated range of implied equity values for Brandywine shares of approximately
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$27.95 to $31.09 per share, which represented an estimated range of implied Brandywine firm values of approximately $3,097 million to $3,318 million.
Exchange Ratio Analysis.
Based on the valuation analyses of the Pro Forma Company shares and Brandywine shares assuming 100% stock consideration, JPMorgan calculated the implied exchange ratios derived from the historical exchange ratio analysis, comparable public companies analysis, discounted cash flow analysis, gross NAV analysis and liquidation NAV analysis, all described above, and from a review of the Pro Forma Companys and Brandywines relative contribution from equity, FFO and leverage adjusted rental revenue, all of which were based on projections and estimates provided by both Brandywine management and Prentiss management. The following table is a summary of the estimated ranges of exchange ratios implied by each valuation methodology and the review of relative contribution by the Pro Forma Company and Brandywine.
Valuation Methodology |
Range
of Implied Exchange Ratios |
|||
Comparable Public Companies Analysis: |
||||
Based on management 2006E FFO |
||||
comparable analysis |
0.795x to 1.083x | |||
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis |
0.807x to 1.629x | |||
Gross NAV Analysis |
0.910x to 1.096x | |||
Liquidation NAV Analysis |
0.902x to 1.095x | |||
Contribution Analysis |
0.880x to 0.972x |
Pro Forma Combination Analysis.
Although the following analysis was not a basis for its opinion, JPMorgan also analyzed the pro forma impact of the Transactions on Brandywines earnings per share, consolidated capitalization and financial ratios utilizing the projections for FFO and estimates provided by both Brandywine management and Prentiss management. Incorporating assumptions provided by Brandywine management including, with respect to various structural considerations, transaction and financing costs and Brandywines estimated Synergies from the Transactions, the Transactions would be expected to be accretive to Brandywines estimated FFO per share in 2006.
The foregoing summary of certain material financial analyses does not purport to be a complete description of the analyses or data presented by JPMorgan. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. JPMorgan believes that the foregoing summary and its analyses must be considered as a whole and that selecting portions of the foregoing summary and these analyses, without considering all of its analyses as a whole, could create an incomplete view of the processes underlying the analyses and its opinion. In arriving at its opinion, JPMorgan did not attribute any particular weight to any analyses or factors considered by it and did not form an opinion as to whether any individual analysis or factor (positive or negative), considered in isolation, supported or failed to support its opinion. Rather, JPMorgan considered the totality of the factors and analyses performed in determining its opinion. Analyses based upon forecasts of future results are inherently uncertain, as they are subject to numerous factors or events beyond the control of the parties and their advisors. Accordingly, forecasts and analyses used or made by JPMorgan are not necessarily indicative of actual future results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than suggested by those analyses. Moreover, JPMorgans analyses are not and do not purport to be appraisals or otherwise reflective of the prices at which businesses actually could be bought or sold. None of the selected companies reviewed as described in the above summary is identical to Brandywine or the Pro Forma Company, and none of the selected transactions reviewed was identical to the Transactions. However, the companies selected were chosen because they are publicly traded companies with operations and businesses that, for purposes of JPMorgans analysis, may be considered similar to those of Brandywine and the Pro Forma Company. The transactions selected were similarly chosen because their participants, size and other factors, for purposes of JPMorgans analysis, may be considered similar to the Transactions. The analyses necessarily involve complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and operational characteristics of the companies involved and
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other factors that could affect the companies compared to Brandywine and the Pro Forma Company and the transactions compared to the Transactions.
JPMorgans opinion and financial analyses were only one of many factors considered by Brandywines board of trustees in its evaluation of the Transactions and should not be viewed as determinative of the views of Brandywines board of trustees or management with respect to the Transactions or the Brandywine Consideration.
As a part of its investment banking business, JPMorgan and its affiliates are continually engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, investments for passive and control purposes, negotiated underwritings, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements, and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes. JPMorgan and its affiliates have in the past provided investment banking and commercial banking services to Brandywine, Prudential and Prentiss Operating Partnership and their respective affiliates. Specifically, JPMorgan acted as private placement agent for Brandywine in connection with the placement of its debt securities in November 2004, as joint lead managing underwriter of Brandywines public offering of its debt securities in October 2004, and as joint arranger for Brandywines term loans in August 2004. JPMorgans commercial bank affiliate is a lender to Brandywine. In addition, JPMorgan and its commercial bank affiliate expect to arrange and/or provide a significant portion of Brandywines financing of the cash consideration to be paid by it in the Transactions. Specifically, with respect to Prentiss Operating Partnership, JPMorgans commercial bank affiliate is the administrative agent for Prentiss Operating Partnerships revolving credit facility and a lender thereunder. In the ordinary course of its businesses, JPMorgan and its affiliates may actively trade the debt and equity securities of Brandywine, Prentiss or Prudential for its own account or for the accounts of customers and, accordingly, it may at any time hold long or short positions in such securities.
Brandywine selected JPMorgan to advise it and deliver a fairness opinion with respect to the Transactions on the basis of its experience and its familiarity with Brandywine. Pursuant to its engagement letter with JPMorgan, Brandywine has agreed to pay JPMorgan a fee of $8,250,000, a substantial portion of which is payable upon completion of the Transactions. In addition, Brandywine has agreed to reimburse JPMorgan for its expenses incurred in connection with its services, including the fees and disbursements of counsel, and will indemnify JPMorgan against certain liabilities, including liabilities arising under federal securities laws.
Opinion of Prentiss Financial Advisor, Lazard Frères & Co. LLC |
Under a letter agreement dated December 14, 1998, which was reconfirmed on July 15, 2005, the board of trustees of Prentiss retained Lazard Frères & Co. LLC to act as its exclusive investment banker. As part of this engagement, the Prentiss board requested that Lazard evaluate the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of Prentiss common shares (other than Brandywine and any affiliates of Brandywine, the Prentiss Public Shareholders) of the per share consideration of $21.50 in cash, plus 0.69 Brandywine common shares to be paid to the Prentiss public shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement (including, if the Reverse REIT Merger is to be consummated, the payment of the Special Dividend), which Lazard referred to as the REIT Merger Consideration. Lazard has delivered to the Prentiss board a written opinion dated October 3, 2005, that, as of that date, the REIT Merger Consideration to be paid to the Prentiss Public Shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement was fair to such Prentiss Public Shareholders from a financial point of view.
The full text of the Lazard opinion is attached as Annex E to this joint proxy statement/prospectus and is incorporated herein by reference. The description of the Lazard opinion set forth herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Lazard opinion set forth in Annex E. Prentiss shareholders are urged to read the Lazard opinion in its entirety for a description of the procedures followed, assumptions made, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken by Lazard in connection therewith. Lazards written opinion is directed to the Prentiss board of trustees and only addresses the fairness to the Prentiss Public Shareholders of the REIT Merger Consideration to be paid pursuant to the merger agreement from a financial point of view as of the date of the opinion. Lazards written opinion does not address any other aspect of the REIT Merger
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or any related transactions and does not constitute a recommendation to any Prentiss shareholder as to how the shareholder should vote on any matter relating to the REIT Merger. The following is only a summary of the Lazard opinion. Shareholders are urged to read the entire opinion.
In preparing its opinion, Lazard recognized that the merger agreement contemplated that the REIT Merger Consideration could result from either
| a single step merger transaction, which Lazard referred to as the One Step Merger, in which Prentiss is merged with and into Brandywine Cognac I, LLC pursuant to which Prentiss common shares held by Prentiss Public Shareholders would be converted into the right to
receive aggregate per share consideration equal to $21.50 in cash plus .69 of a Brandywine common share, or |
| a two step transaction, which Lazard refers to as the Two Step Merger, in which Prentiss sells the Prudential Properties to Prudential and declares a Special Dividend on its common shares to distribute a portion of the proceeds from the Prudential Acquisition, followed by
the REIT Merger of Brandywine Cognac I, LLC with and into Prentiss pursuant to which Prentiss common shares held by Prentiss Public Shareholders would be converted into the right to receive Second Step Merger Consideration per share of an amount in cash equal to
the excess of $21.50 over the per share amount of the Special Dividend declared on the Prentiss common shares, plus .69 of a Brandywine common share. |
In the course of performing its review and analysis for rendering its opinion, Lazard:
| reviewed the financial terms and conditions of the merger agreement; |
| analyzed certain historical business and financial information relating to Prentiss and Brandywine; |
| reviewed various financial forecasts and other data provided to Lazard by Prentiss and Brandywine as to the future financial performance of Prentiss and Brandywine, respectively, and of Brandywine with respect to the combined entity; |
| held discussions with members of the senior managements of Prentiss and Brandywine with respect to the business and prospects of Prentiss and Brandywine, respectively, and the strategic objectives of each; |
| reviewed public information with respect to certain other companies in lines of businesses Lazard believed to be generally comparable to the businesses of Prentiss and Brandywine; |
| reviewed the financial terms of certain business combinations involving companies in lines of businesses Lazard believed to be generally comparable to those of Prentiss and Brandywine; |
| reviewed the historical stock prices and trading volumes of the Prentiss common shares and Brandywine common shares; and |
| conducted such other financial studies, analyses and investigations as Lazard deemed appropriate. |
Lazard relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the foregoing information and did not assume any responsibility for any independent verification of such information or an independent valuation or appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities of Prentiss or Brandywine, or concerning the solvency of, or issues relating to solvency concerning, Prentiss or Brandywine. With respect to financial forecasts, Lazard assumed that they were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best then currently available estimates and judgments of management of Prentiss and Brandywine as to the future financial performance of Prentiss and of Brandywine, respectively, and of Brandywine with respect to the combined entity. Lazard assumed no responsibility for and expressed no view as to the forecasts provided to Lazard or as to the assumptions on which they were based.
Lazard was not asked to consider, and Lazards opinion did not address, the relative merits of the REIT Merger as compared to any alternative potential transaction or Prentiss underlying decision to effect the transaction. Lazard also noted that its opinion was necessarily based on economic, monetary, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to Lazard as of, the date of its opinion.
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Lazard assumed no responsibility for updating or revising its opinion based on circumstances or events occurring after the date of its opinion.
Lazard also assumed that the REIT Merger would be consummated on the terms and subject to the conditions described in the merger agreement, without any waiver or modification of any material terms or conditions by Prentiss, and that obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals for the proposed transaction would not have an adverse effect on Prentiss, Brandywine or the combined entity. Lazard also assumed that (i) based on information provided by Brandywines financial advisors, the sale of the Prudential Properties will result in gross sale proceeds of approximately $750 million, and (ii) if the REIT Merger is accomplished as a One Step Merger, the Prudential Acquisition will be consummated by Brandywine at the effective time of the REIT Merger. Furthermore, with respect to its analysis of a potential Two Step Merger, Lazard, with the consent of the Prentiss board of trustees, viewed all of the steps of the Two Step Merger as a single transaction and assumed that there will be no difference between the holders of Prentiss common shares entitled to receive the Special Dividend and those entitled to receive the Second Step Merger Consideration.
Lazard did not express any opinion as to the price at which the common shares of Prentiss or the Brandywine common shares may trade subsequent to the announcement of the merger agreement or as to the price at which the Brandywine common shares may trade subsequent to the consummation of the REIT Merger. Furthermore, Lazard did not express any opinion as to the terms of the Partnership Merger, the Prudential Acquisition or the consideration to be received by a holder of shares of Prentiss Series D preferred shares, and noted that they were not involved in any way in advising on or negotiating the financial terms of the Prudential Acquisition. Additionally, Lazard did not express any opinion as to any tax or other consequences that might result from the contemplated transactions, nor did its opinion address any legal, tax, regulatory or accounting matters, it being Lazards understanding that the Prentiss board of trustees obtained such advice on these areas as it deemed necessary from qualified professionals.
The following is a brief summary of the material financial and comparative analyses which Lazard deemed to be appropriate for this type of transaction and that were performed by Lazard in connection with rendering its opinion.
Public Market Valuation Analysis |
Lazard performed a public market valuation analysis based on financial multiples of selected comparable companies in order to derive a range of implied per share values for the Prentiss common shares. In performing this analysis, Lazard reviewed certain financial information for Prentiss and compared such information to corresponding financial information for 13 other REITs Lazard deemed to be comparable to Prentiss. The companies included in this analysis were:
| Kilroy Realty Corporation |
| Corporate Office Properties Trust |
| Arden Realty, Inc. |
| Crescent Real Estate Equities Company |
| Duke Realty Corporation |
| Reckson Associates Realty Corp. |
| Equity Office Properties Trust |
| Trizec Properties, Inc. |
| Liberty Property Trust |
| CarrAmerica Realty Corporation |
| Highwood Properties, Inc. |
| Mack-Cali Realty Corporation |
| Brandywine Realty Trust |
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Using publicly available information and market data as of September 29, 2005, Lazard calculated the multiples of stock price to calendar year 2006 estimated Funds From Operations (abbreviated as FFO) of the comparable companies:
Low | Median | Mean | High | ||||||||||
Multiples of Stock Price to 2006E FFO Per Share |
11.8x | 13.2x | 13.9x | 17.2x |
Using the multiples calculated in the public market valuation analysis and based on the financial forecasts of 2006 estimated FFO for Prentiss prepared by management of Prentiss, Lazard derived a range of implied per share values of $38.21 to $55.94 for the Prentiss common shares.
Net Asset Value
Lazard reviewed the net asset value estimates for Prentiss common shares as reported by equity analysts and as provided by management of Prentiss. Equity analysts net asset value estimates for Prentiss common shares ranged from $27.47 per share, reported by A.G. Edwards, Inc. on July 21, 2005, to $43.34 per share, reported by Citigroup Investment Research on July 22, 2005, with an average net asset value estimate for Prentiss common shares of $35.64 per share. Management of Prentiss estimated a net asset value of $41.19 per share for Prentiss common shares.
Comparable Transactions Analysis
Lazard performed a comparable transactions analysis in order to derive a range of implied per share values for Prentiss common shares based on multiples of the consideration paid in such transactions to the FFO of the targets in such transactions. In connection with this analysis, Lazard reviewed the following transactions announced between March 2002 and June 2005 involving REITs:
Acquiror |
Target | |||
ING Clarion Partners LLC |
Gables Residential Trust | |||
ProLogis |
Catellus Development Corporation | |||
PL Retail LLC |
Price Legacy Corporation | |||
Simon Property Group Inc. |
Chelsea Property Group Inc. | |||
General Growth Properties, Inc. |
Rouse Company | |||
Centro Properties Group |
Kramont Realty Trust | |||
HRPT Properties Trust |
Hallwood Realty Partners LP | |||
DRA Advisors |
CRT Properties Inc. | |||
Colonial Properties Trust |
Cornerstone Realty Income Trust Inc. | |||
DRA Advisors |
Capital Automotive REIT | |||
Prologis |
Keystone Property Trust | |||
Hometown America LLC |
Chateau Communities Inc. | |||
Kimco Realty Corporation |
Mid-Atlantic Realty Trust | |||
Aslan Realty Partners II LP/Transwestern |
Great Lakes REIT, Inc. | |||
CNL Financial Group Inc. |
RFS Hotel Investors Inc. | |||
Equity One Inc. |
IRT Property Company | |||
General Growth Properties, Inc. |
JP Realty Inc. | |||
Developers Diversified Realty Corporation |
JDN Realty Corporation | |||
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust |
Crown American Realty Trust |
Using publicly available information, Lazard compared the transaction value of the selected precedent transactions as a multiple of the consideration paid in such transactions to the FFO of the targets in such transactions:
Transaction Value as a Multiple of Consideration to FFO
Low |
Median | Mean | High | |||||||
6.8x |
13.2x | 12.9x | 20.0x |
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Based on the consideration to FFO multiples from the selected precedent transactions and the financial forecasts of 2006 estimated FFO for Prentiss prepared by management of Prentiss, Lazard derived a range of implied per share values of $22.03 to $65.05 for Prentiss common shares.
Premium Analysis of Selected Recent Public REIT M&A Transactions
Lazard performed a premium analysis in order to derive a range of implied per share values for the Prentiss common shares based on premiums paid in 34 transactions involving REITs since May 2000 that had transaction values (including assumption of indebtedness) that were greater than $460 million. Using publicly available information, Lazard calculated the following premiums paid in the REIT transactions it analyzed:
Premium/(Discount) to Stock Price at Last Closing before Announcement of Transaction
Low |
Median | Mean | High | |||||||
(8.4%) |
12.4 | % | 13.5 | % | 39.6 | % |
Using the range of premiums paid in the REIT transactions it analyzed and applying the range to the closing price of the Prentiss common shares on September 30, 2005, Lazard derived a range of implied per share values of $37.17 to $56.69 for the Prentiss common shares.
Dividend Discount Analysis |
Lazard performed a dividend discount analysis in order to derive a range of implied per share values for the Prentiss common shares based on the present value of the projected future dividend stream for Prentiss during the years 2006 to 2010 and the present value of the estimated terminal value of Prentiss common shares in 2011. The dividend discount analysis was based on financial forecasts for Prentiss provided by the management of Prentiss. This analysis was based on a range of discount rates from 8.0% to 10.0% and a terminal value of Prentiss common shares based on a price to FFO multiple range of 10.0x to 13.0x to 2011 projected FFO. Using this analysis, Lazard derived a range of implied per share values of $32.63 to $43.26 for the Prentiss common shares.
Stock Price Analysis |
Lazard reviewed the per share prices of the Prentiss common shares on September 30, 2005, the high and low trading prices for the Prentiss common shares for the 52-week period ending September 30, 2005, and the average closing price for the 60-day period ending September 30, 2005. The following table illustrates such stock prices during such periods:
As of September 30, 2005 52 Week |
60 Day Average Closing Price as of September 30, 2005 |
Closing Price on September 30, 2005 |
|||||||||
High |
Low | ||||||||||
$40.82 |
$ | 32.60 | $ | 39.32 | $ | 40.60 |
Miscellaneous
Lazard performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses solely for the purpose of providing its opinion to the Prentiss board of trustees that the REIT Merger Consideration to be paid to the Prentiss Public Shareholders pursuant to the merger agreement was fair to the Prentiss Public Shareholders from a financial point of view. The preparation of a fairness opinion involves various determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial analysis and the application of these methods to the particular circumstances and, therefore, such an opinion is not readily susceptible to a partial analysis or summary description. Accordingly, notwithstanding the separate analyses summarized above, Lazard believes that its analyses must be considered as a whole and that selecting portions of the analyses or factors considered by it, without considering all such factors or analyses, or attempting to ascribe relative weights to some or all such analyses and factors could create an incomplete view of the evaluation process underlying the Lazard opinion.
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In its analyses, Lazard made numerous assumptions with respect to industry performance, general business, economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of Prentiss. The estimates contained in these analyses and the valuation ranges resulting from any particular analysis do not necessarily indicate actual values or predict future results or values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by these analyses. Lazard did not assign any specific weight to any of the analyses described above and did not draw any specific conclusions from or with regard to any one method of analysis. In addition, analyses relating to the value of the businesses or securities are not appraisals and do not reflect the prices at which the businesses or securities may actually be sold or the prices at which their securities may trade. As a result, these analyses and estimates are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty.
No company or transaction used in any of the analyses is identical to Prentiss or the REIT Merger. Accordingly, an analysis of the results of the foregoing necessarily involves complex considerations and judgments concerning financial and operating characteristics of Prentiss and other factors that could affect the public trading values or the announced transaction values, as the case may be, of Prentiss and Brandywine and the companies to which the comparison is being made. Mathematical analysis (such as determining the mean or median) is not in itself a meaningful method of using comparable transaction data or comparable company data.
Lazards opinion and financial analyses were not the only factors considered by the Prentiss board of trustees in its evaluation of the REIT Merger and should not be viewed as determinative of the views of the board of trustees or Prentiss management. Lazard has consented to the inclusion of and references to its opinion in this joint proxy statement.
Under the terms of Lazards engagement, Prentiss has agreed to pay Lazard an advisory fee of $7.5 million, all of which is payable when REIT Merger is completed. The amount of the advisory fee may be adjusted depending on the closing price of the Brandywine common shares on the closing date of the REIT Merger and on the principal amount of indebtedness for borrowed money of Prentiss on the closing date of the REIT Merger. Prentiss has agreed to reimburse Lazard for travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in performing its services, including the fees and expenses of its legal counsel. In addition, Prentiss agreed to indemnify Lazard against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the federal securities laws relating to or arising out of Lazards engagement. In the past, Lazard has provided investment banking services to Prentiss and Brandywine for which Lazard has been paid customary fees. Managing Directors of Lazard have been members of Brandywines board of trustees in the past and a private equity fund that was managed and sponsored by Lazard (which is currently managed by an affiliate of LFCM Holdings LLC, which is owned in large part by managing directors of Lazard) previously held preferred shares in Brandywine and preferred units in the Brandywine Operating Partnership and continues to hold a small number of Brandywine common shares.
Lazard is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and is continually engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, private placements, leveraged buyouts, and valuations for real estate, corporate and other purposes. Lazard was selected to act as investment banker to the Prentiss board of trustees because of its expertise and its reputation in investment banking and mergers and acquisitions. In the ordinary course of its business, affiliates of Lazard and LFCM Holdings LLC may from time to time effect transactions and hold securities of Prentiss and Brandywine for their own accounts and for the accounts of their customers, and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position in such securities.
Interests of Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the Mergers |
In considering the recommendation of the Prentiss board of trustees with respect to the REIT Merger, you should be aware that, as described below, certain executive officers and trustees of Prentiss have interests in the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Prentiss common shareholders generally. The Prentiss board of trustees were aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in making its recommendation.
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Representation on Brandywines Board of Trustees
In the merger agreement, Brandywine agreed to use its best efforts to cause Michael V. Prentiss, the Chairman of the Board of Prentiss, and Thomas F. August, President and Chief Executive Officer of Prentiss and a current member of the Prentiss board of trustees, to be elected to Brandywines board of trustees upon consummation of the REIT Merger. Brandywine agreed to use its best efforts to cause the Brandywine board of trustees to re-nominate each of Messrs. Prentiss and August as a trustee for election at Brandywines annual meeting of shareholders for each of 2006 and 2007.
Prentiss Employment Agreements
Certain of Prentiss trustees and executive officers are parties to employment agreements with Prentiss that entitle them to payments in the case of a change in control and certain other benefits if their employment terminates following a change in control. The completion of the REIT Merger will qualify as change in control under these employment agreements. Brandywine will honor each of the employment agreements in accordance with their respective terms.
Employment Agreement with Michael V. Prentiss. Prentiss has an employment agreement with Michael V. Prentiss, which provides that within 15 days of a change of control (as defined in the employment agreement) of Prentiss, he will receive a payment equal to $3,000,000. In addition, any time after a change in control, he may resign and, for a period of three years after the date of his resignation, he and his dependants will remain entitled to health insurance and other benefits, and Mr. Prentiss will be entitled to the services of his secretary, an accountant and office space comparable to that which he is presently assigned. If Mr. Prentiss incurs an excise tax under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code (relating to excess parachute payments) with respect to any payments he receives from Prentiss, he is entitled to a gross-up payment to reimburse him for this excise tax and any income and employment taxes which apply to the gross-up payment. The employment agreement of Mr. Prentiss was amended in October 2005 to clarify the benefits Mr. Prentiss will be entitled to receive upon a change in control. In addition to clarifying the terms of Mr. Prentiss employment agreement, Mr. Prentiss was granted an option to purchase all of the rights of Prentiss related to its contract with FlexJet for use of a corporate jet. The option is exercisable at the end of the three year period after his termination following a change in control. The closing of this purchase is conditioned upon Mr. Prentiss payment of the $100,000 exercise price and the consent of FlexJet, if necessary, for the transfer of Prentiss contract with them. Mr. Prentiss will resign at the effective time of the REIT Merger and Mr. Prentiss will no longer receive an annual salary or bonus.
Employment Agreement with Thomas F. August. Prentiss has an employment agreement with Thomas F. August, which provides that within 15 days of a change of control (as defined in the employment agreement) of Prentiss, he will receive a payment equal to three times the sum of his current annual base salary plus pro forma two prior years cash bonus and value of long-term incentives. The payment amount is estimated to be approximately $9,056,550. In addition, any time after a change in control, he may resign and, for a period of three years after the date of his resignation, he and his dependants will remain entitled to health insurance and other benefits, and Mr. August will be entitled to the services of his secretary and office space comparable to that which he is presently assigned. If Mr. August incurs an excise tax under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code (relating to excess parachute payments) with respect to any payments he receives from Prentiss, Mr. August is entitled to a gross-up payment to reimburse him for this excise tax and any income and employment taxes which apply to the gross-up payment. Mr. Augusts employment agreement was amended in October 2005 to clarify the benefits to which Mr. August will be entitled to receive upon a change in control. Mr. August will resign at the effective time of the REIT Merger and Mr. August will no longer receive an annual salary or bonus. Brandywine intends to enter into a two-year consulting agreement with Mr. August at the effective time of the REIT Merger.
Employment of other Prentiss Executive Level Employees
Brandywine has agreed to interview select Prentiss executive employees with the goal of offering each such Prentiss executive employee a position with Brandywine reasonably comparable to the position such Prentiss executive employee held with Prentiss. Offers, if made, would include compensation and bonus no
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less favorable than those under which Prentiss executive employees were employed prior to the REIT Merger and with other benefits in line with similar positions at Brandywine.
On November 1, 2005, Brandywine entered into employment agreements with the following four executives of Prentiss: Robert K. Wiberg, Daniel K. Cushing, Christopher M. Hipps and Michael J. Cooper. These agreements do not become effective for any purpose unless and until the REIT Merger is consummated. Brandywine intends to enter into employment agreements with Gregory S. Imhoff and Scott W. Fordham.
Each of the employment agreements with Messrs. Wiberg, Cushing, Hipps and Cooper sets forth the terms under which the applicable executive of Prentiss would be employed by Brandywine, including title, responsibilities and compensation. The table below provides selected information from each employment agreement and is qualified by the full text of the applicable employment agreement which is incorporated herein by reference.
Share | Brandywine | |||||||||||||||
Name |
Title | Base Salary | 2005 Bonus | Grants (1) | Stated Term | |||||||||||
Robert K. Wiberg |
Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Operations | $250,000 | $75,000 | 13,800 fully vested shares 6,900 restricted shares | Two Years | |||||||||||
Daniel K. Cushing |
Senior Vice President and Managing Director Western Region | $215,000 | $75,000 | 13,800 fully vested 3,450 restricted shares | Two Years | |||||||||||
Christopher M. Hipps |
Executive Vice President and Managing Director Southwest Region | $215,000 | $70,000 | 13,800 fully vested shares | Two Years | |||||||||||
Michael J. Cooper |
Senior Vice President Mid-Atlantic Region | $200,000 | $75,000 | 6,900 fully vested shares | Two Years | |||||||||||
(1) | Share grants represent Brandywine common shares. As indicated in the above table, some of the Brandywine common shares granted will be fully vested on the grant date. The restricted Brandywine common shares to be granted to Messrs. Wiberg and Cushing will vest on the
third anniversary of the grant date and vesting is not subject to performance-based conditions. The holder of restricted Brandywine common shares is entitled to vote the unvested restricted Brandywine common shares and to receive distributions from the date of the award. |
Equity Compensation Awards |
Stock Options. The merger agreement provides that, as of the effective time of the REIT Merger, all unexercised vested and unvested Prentiss share options outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Merger, including those held by Prentiss trustees and executive officers, will be assumed by Brandywine and each such option will be automatically converted into options to purchase on the same terms and conditions as were applicable under the relevant Prentiss option (taking into account any changes thereto, including the acceleration thereof) a number of Brandywine common shares equal to (i) the number of Prentiss common
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shares subject to the Prentiss option to which such new Brandywine option relates multiplied by (ii) the Option Exchange Ratio, rounded to the nearest share. The per share exercise price of each new Brandywine option will equal (A) the per share exercise price of the Prentiss option to which such new Brandywine option relates divided by (B) the Option Exchange Ratio, rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent. See The Merger AgreementREIT Merger Consideration.
Prior to the REIT Merger and subject to the terms of the Prentiss option plans, Prentiss may, in its sole discretion, take all actions necessary and appropriate to allow each holder of a Prentiss option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of the treatment provided above, to convert each Prentiss option so held into the right to receive an amount of cash at the effective time of the REIT Merger equal to the product of (i) the excess, if any, of the sum of (1) the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger consideration (with the portion of the REIT Merger consideration that consists of Brandywine common shares valued at the ten day average trading price) on the closing date of the REIT Merger and (2) the per share amount of any Special Dividend over the per share exercise price of such Prentiss option and (ii) the number of Prentiss common shares subject to such Prentiss option (such payment to be net of all applicable withholding taxes).
Restricted Shares. Each restricted Prentiss common share outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Merger, including those held by Prentiss trustees and executive officers, will become unrestricted and will be converted into the right to receive the REIT Merger consideration pursuant to the terms of such restricted shares.
Summary of Equity Compensation Payments. The following table shows the number of restricted shares, vested share options and unvested share options held by Prentiss executive officers and trustees as of October 3, 2005:
Executive Officers and Trustees |
Restricted Shares Owned | Vested Share Options | Unvested Share Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | |||||||||
Michael V. Prentiss |
| | | | |||||||||
Thomas F. August |
98,500 | 75,634 | 191,333 | $ | 32.00 | ||||||||
Thomas J. Hynes, Jr. |
| 30,000 | | $ | 32.83 | ||||||||
Barry J.C. Parker |
| 15,000 | | $ | 34.98 | ||||||||
Dr. Leonard M. Riggs, Jr. |
| 30,000 | | $ | 32.83 | ||||||||
Ronald G. Steinhart |
| 30,000 | | $ | 32.83 | ||||||||
Lawrence A. Wilson |
| 30,000 | | $ | 32.83 | ||||||||
Lawrence J. Krueger |
25,000 | 26,717 | 46,833 | $ | 31.24 | ||||||||
Robert K. Wiberg |
27,000 | 8,817 | 46,300 | $ | 32.83 | ||||||||
Christopher M. Hipps |
24,500 | | 44,667 | $ | 32.65 | ||||||||
Daniel K. Cushing |
24,000 | 11,429 | 49,667 | $ | 33.42 | ||||||||
Christopher B. Mahon |
18,000 | | 34,000 | $ | 33.60 | ||||||||
Michael A. Ernst |
29,000 | | 54,966 | $ | 32.97 | ||||||||
Gregory S. Imhoff |
13,000 | | 16,667 | $ | 34.56 | ||||||||
Scott W. Fordham |
5,000 | 333 | 5,667 | $ | 34.70 | ||||||||
Totals |
264,000 | 257,930 | 490,100 | | |||||||||
Change of Control Severance Plans
On October 3, 2005, Prentiss entered into two separate change of control severance protection plans in connection with the REIT Merger, one with Prentiss hourly and salaried non-officer employees and the other with Prentiss key employees.
The Change of Control Severance Protection Plan for Key Employees relates to Prentiss Chief Financial Officer, any Regional Managing Director, Senior Vice President and any other of Prentiss other officers and excludes certain officers specified in the plan. Upon an officer being terminated by Prentiss for any reason other than cause or termination by the officer for good reason within one year or two years, depending on the type of officer, after a change in control (as defined in the severance plan), severance benefits will be provided to such officer in an amount equal to the sum of such officers salary and such officers 2004 annual
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bonus multiplied by the appropriate multiple which is 2 for Regional Managing Directors and the Prentiss Chief Financial Officer and 1.5 for Senior Vice Presidents. Other officers would receive an amount equal to the greater of (1) the sum of such officers salary and such officers 2004 annual bonus or (2) the product of one-twelfth of such officers base salary and the number of years such officer had been employed with Prentiss prior to such termination. Such terminated employee would be entitled to a continuation of benefits (medical, health, dental, prescription drug benefits, life insurance, long-term disability) for the period ranging from one year to two years. For purposes of this Plan, a change in control includes the completion of the REIT Merger described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
All severance benefits will be net of any federal and/or state taxes imposed in excess of, or in addition to, general income taxes, e.g., excise taxes, golden parachute taxes, etc. In this respect, any officers entitled to severance benefits will receive a gross-up payment calculated to pay the excess taxes (and excise taxes and income taxes on the gross-up) so that the participant receives the same net level of benefit he or she would have received without the imposition of the excess taxes (or the income and excise taxes imposed upon the gross up payment).
The Change in Control Severance Protection Plan for Hourly and Salaried Non-Officer Employees relates to all hourly and non-officer salaried employees who were employed as of October 3, 2005. Upon the termination of a non-officer employee for any reason other than cause or termination by such employee for good reason within six months of a change of control, severance benefits will be provided to such terminated employee in an amount equal to one month of compensation for each full and partial year of employment with a minimum of three months of compensation, provided that property level employees who are terminated in connection with (1) property dispositions or exchanges in the ordinary course of business, or Prentiss properties in Colorado, Illinois or Michigan, or (2) the loss of third party management or leasing contracts will not be entitled to these benefits. Such terminated employee would be entitled to a continuation of benefits (medical, health, dental, prescription drug benefits, life insurance, long-term disability) for the period of severance benefits. For purposes of this Plan, a change in control includes the completion of the REIT Merger.
Bonus Pool
The Prentiss compensation committee created a bonus pool of up to $10 million to provide incentives to Prentiss employees (other than the Chief Executive Officer) with respect to the consummation of the Mergers. Of the total bonus pool, an aggregate of $8 million was allocated as of October 3, 2005 to specified executive officers including the following named executive officers, payable upon closing of the REIT Merger if such officers remain employed by Prentiss at the REIT Merger unless previously decided otherwise by Prentiss compensation committee or the President of Prentiss.
Executive Officers |
Bonus Pool Allocation | |||
Michael V. Prentiss |
$ | 6,000,000 | ||
Michael A. Ernst |
350,000 | |||
Totals |
$ | 6,350,000 | ||
Prentiss board of trustees intends to pay out the balance of the $10 million bonus pool to employees identified by the Chief Executive Officer with the advice and consent of the Compensation Committee.
Tax Deferral for Unitholders
Certain trustees and officers of Prentiss who own Prentiss Operating Partnership common units will be able to defer their taxable gains in their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units by receiving Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units in exchange for their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units. The REIT Merger, in contrast, is a taxable transaction and, as a result, holders of Prentiss common shares other than certain tax-exempt holders will be required to pay tax on gains arising from exchanging their Prentiss common shares for the REIT Merger consideration.
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Additional Agreements
Each of Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August entered into a voting agreement with Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership which requires him to vote all Prentiss common shares beneficially owned by him as of the record date for the Prentiss special meeting in favor of the merger proposal (and against competing proposals). See The Merger Agreement Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August Voting Agreements.
Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership and Michael V. Prentiss entered into a registration rights agreement in which Brandywine agreed to register the Brandywine common shares that Mr. Prentiss receives in the REIT Merger or upon conversion of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units received in the Partnership Merger. See The Merger AgreementMichael V. Prentiss Registration Rights Agreement.
Limitation of Liability, Indemnification and Insurance
The merger agreement provides that, following completion of the REIT Merger, all past and present trustees and officers of Prentiss will be indemnified to the same extent these individuals were indemnified as of the date of the merger agreement pursuant to indemnification agreements with Prentiss and the Declaration of Trust and Bylaws of Prentiss for acts or omissions occurring at or prior to the completion of the REIT Merger. In addition, for six years after the REIT Merger, Brandywine will maintain in effect provisions regarding elimination of liability of trustees, indemnification of officers, trustees and employees and advancement of expenses which are no less advantageous to the intended beneficiaries than those currently contained in the Declaration of Trust and Bylaws of Prentiss.
The merger agreement obligates Brandywine to maintain trustees and officers liability insurance for six years after completion of the REIT Merger with respect to claims arising from facts or events that occurred on or before completion of the REIT Merger, including events that are related to the merger agreement. However, Brandywine will not be required to expend more than 200% of annual premiums currently paid by Prentiss for such insurance. If the annual premiums exceed this amount, then Brandywine will be obligated to obtain a policy with the greatest coverage available subject to the above limit.
Merger Financing |
Brandywine expects to use the net proceeds from borrowings under the 364-day term loan to fund a portion of the cash component of the REIT Merger consideration. Brandywine expects that the 364-day term loan will be guaranteed by the same subsidiaries that are guarantors under its revolving credit facility. Brandywine anticipates that the 364-day term loan will bear interest, at its option, at (A) a base rate equal to the higher of (1) the prime lending rate or (2) the federal funds effective rate from time to time plus 0.50%, plus a margin of 0.25%, or (B) the London interbank offered rate for terms of one, two or three months, as selected by Brandywine, plus a margin that varies between 1.00% and 1.40% per annum depending on its credit ratings.
The interim term loan will only be drawn if (i) certain properties located in the Mid-west anticipated to be sold by Prentiss are not sold prior to the consummation of the REIT Merger, or (ii) if a portion of the Prudential Properties are not sold to Prudential. The interim term loan will be subject to mandatory pre-payment out of the proceeds of any sale of the Mid-west properties. The interim term loan will have a term of 60 days. Brandywine expects that the interim term loan will be guaranteed by the same subsidiaries that are guarantors under its revolving credit facility. Brandywine anticipates that the interim term loan will bear interest, at its option, at (A) a base rate equal to the higher of (1) the prime lending rate or (2) the federal funds effective rate from time to time plus 0.50%, plus a margin of 0.25%, or (B) the London interbank offered rate for a term of one month, plus a margin that varies between 1.00% and 1.40% per annum depending on its credit ratings.
The back-stop revolving credit facility will only be put into place if Brandywine is not successful in completing, prior to the consummation of the REIT Merger, an amendment and restatement of its existing revolving credit facility on terms which allow for the consummation of the REIT Merger and are otherwise satisfactory to Brandywine. The back-stop revolving credit facility will have a term of 60 days from the closing of the REIT Merger. Brandywine expects that Brandywine Operating Partnership and the same
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subsidiaries that are guarantors under its revolving credit agreement will provide guarantees of the payment obligations under the facility. Brandywine anticipates that the back-stop revolving credit facility will bear interest, at its option, at (A) a base rate equal to the higher of (1) the prime lending rate or (2) the federal funds effective rate from time to time plus 0.50%, plus a margin of 0.25%, or (B) the London interbank offered rate for a term of one month, plus a margin that varies between 1.00% and 1.40% per annum depending on its credit ratings.
No Dissenters Rights of Appraisal |
Maryland law provides that in some mergers shareholders who do not vote in favor of a merger and who comply with a series of statutory requirements have the right to receive, instead of the merger consideration, the fair value of their shares as appraised by appraisers appointed by a Maryland court or, in certain circumstances, by the court itself, payable in cash. However, this right to appraisal is not available under the Maryland law to holders of Prentiss common shares or Brandywine common shares in connection with the REIT Merger.
Regulatory Matters |
Neither Brandywine or Prentiss is aware of any material federal or state regulatory requirements that must be complied with or approvals that must be obtained by Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership, Prentiss, or Prentiss Operating Partnership in connection with either the REIT Merger or the Partnership Merger.
Stock Exchange Listing and Related Matters |
Brandywine has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Brandywine common shares to be issued in the REIT Merger, to be reserved for issuance upon the exercise of Brandywine options issued in exchange for Prentiss options and to be reserved for issuance upon conversion of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A common units issued in the Partnership Merger, to be approved for listing, upon official notice of issuance, on the New York Stock Exchange. Brandywine filed a supplemental listing application with the New York Stock Exchange on November 8, 2005 and received confirmation on November 11, 2005 that the New York Stock Exchange has authorized, upon official notice of issuance, the listing of these shares.
If the REIT Merger is completed, Prentiss common shares will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and Prentiss will file a Form 15 to deregister its common shares under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Accounting Treatment |
The Mergers will be treated as a purchase for financial accounting purposes. This means that Brandywine will record the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values at the time the Mergers are completed.
Merger Fees, Costs and Expenses |
All expenses incurred in connection with the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions will be paid by the party incurring those expenses, except that Brandywine and Prentiss have agreed to share equally the fees, costs and expenses related to filing, printing and mailing Brandywines registration statement on Form S-4 and this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Brandywine and Prentiss have agreed to pay certain of the other partys fees in specified circumstances if the merger agreement is terminated. See The Merger AgreementTermination Fees; Other Expenses.
Restrictions on Resale of Brandywine Common Shares Issued in the REIT Merger |
Brandywine common shares issued to Prentiss common shareholders in the REIT Merger will be freely transferable under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except for shares issued to any person who may
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be deemed to be an affiliate of Prentiss within the meaning of Rule 145 under the Securities Act or who will become an affiliate of Brandywine within the meaning of Rule 144 under the Securities Act after the REIT Merger. Brandywine common shares received by persons who are deemed to be Prentiss affiliates or who become Brandywine affiliates may be resold by these persons only in transactions permitted by the limited resale provisions of Rule 145 or as otherwise permitted under the Securities Act. Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of Prentiss generally include individuals or entities that, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, control, are controlled by or are under common control with Prentiss and may include officers, trustees and principal shareholders of Prentiss.
Prentiss has agreed to use its reasonable efforts to obtain prior to the closing of the REIT Merger an affiliate agreement from each affiliate of Prentiss, pursuant to which each Prentiss affiliate will agree not to sell, transfer, pledge or otherwise dispose of any of the Brandywine common shares received in the Mergers in violation of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations promulgated under the Securities Act. Generally, this will require that all sales be made in accordance with Rule 145 under the Securities Act.
Trustees and Executive Officers of the Combined Company |
Board of Trustees
Brandywines board of trustees will be increased from eight to ten trustees as of the effective time of the Mergers. Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August, each of whom is currently a member of the Prentiss board of trustees, will be joining the Brandywine board.
Executive Officers
Brandywines current executive officers are generally expected to continue to hold office after the effective time of the Mergers in their current capacities, until their successors are duly elected and qualified or until their earlier resignations or removals. Brandywine expects to implement the following changes within Brandywines executive management ranks at the effective time of the Mergers: (i) Robert K. Wiberg (age 49), currently an Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, of Prentiss, will become Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Operations of Brandywine; (ii) Gregory S. Imhoff (age 48), currently Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Prentiss, will become Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Brandywine; (iii) Timothy M. Martin (age 34), currently Brandywines Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer, will become Vice President Finance; (iv) Scott W. Fordham (age 37), currently Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Prentiss, will become Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Brandywine; (v) Christopher M. Hipps (age 44), currently Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Southwest Region, of Prentiss, will become Executive Vice President and Managing Director Southwest Region of Brandywine; (vi) Daniel K. Cushing, (age 44), currently Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Northern California Region, of Prentiss, will become Senior Vice President and Managing Director Western Region of Brandywine; and (vii) Michael J. Cooper (age 47), currently Senior Vice President, Development of Prentiss, will become Senior Vice President Mid-Atlantic Region of Brandywine.
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following is a summary of the material terms of the merger agreement but does not describe each of the provisions of the merger agreement. The merger agreement has been included as Annex A in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and is incorporated herein by reference to provide you with information regarding its terms. It is not intended to provide any other factual information about Brandywine and Prentiss. That information can be found elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and in the other public filings each of Brandywine and Prentiss makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. See Where You Can Find More Information on page 137. You should read the merger agreement because it, and not this joint proxy statement/prospectus, is the legal document that governs the terms of the Mergers.
Structure of the REIT Merger
The merger agreement provides for either the merger of Prentiss with and into Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, with Brandywine Cognac I, LLC surviving as a subsidiary of the Brandywine Operating Partnership (which we refer to as the Forward REIT Merger) or the merger of Brandywine Cognac I with and into Prentiss, with Prentiss surviving (which we refer to as the Reverse REIT Merger).
If Brandywine obtains the private letter ruling, as described in more detail in Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the MergersTax Consequences of the REIT Merger General The Private Letter Ruling and if the other conditions to closing set forth in the merger agreement are satisfied or waived, then the REIT Merger would take the form of the Forward REIT Merger. If Brandywine does not obtain the private letter ruling, and if the other conditions to closing set forth in the merger agreement are satisfied or waived, then the REIT Merger would take the form of the Reverse REIT Merger. We refer to either the Forward REIT Merger or the Reverse REIT Merger, whichever is consummated pursuant to the merger agreement, as the REIT Merger.
REIT Merger Consideration
Conversion of Prentiss Common Shares
At the effective time of the REIT Merger, each issued and outstanding Prentiss common share (other than common shares owned or held by Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership, Prentiss or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries) shall be converted into the right to receive:
| $21.50 in cash (as this amount may be reduced, the Cash Consideration); and |
| 0.69 of a Brandywine common share (the Common Exchange Ratio). |
If, between the date of the merger agreement and the REIT Merger, Brandywine or Prentiss should split, combine or otherwise reclassify the Brandywine common shares or the Prentiss common shares, or pay a share dividend or other share distribution in Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares, as applicable, or otherwise change the Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares into any other securities, or make any other such share dividend or distribution in capital shares of Brandywine or Prentiss in respect of the Brandywine common shares or the Prentiss common shares, respectively, then any number or amount contained in the merger agreement which is based upon the price of the Brandywine common shares or the number of Prentiss common shares or Brandywine common shares, as the case may be (including but not limited to the Cash Consideration or the Common Exchange Ratio), will be appropriately adjusted to reflect such split, combination, dividend or other distribution or change.
Closing and Effective Time of the REIT Merger
Unless Brandywine and Prentiss agree otherwise, the closing of the REIT Merger will occur on the second business day following the satisfaction or waiver of the closing conditions. See Conditions to Completion of the REIT Merger. The REIT Merger will become effective at such time as the articles of merger are accepted for record by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland, or at such later time as Brandywine and Prentiss shall agree and specify in the articles of merger. Brandywine and Prentiss will file the articles of merger prior to the closing of the REIT Merger.
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If Brandywine does not obtain the private letter ruling described in Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the MergersTax Consequences of the REIT Merger General The Private Letter Ruling the closing of the REIT Merger shall occur on the first business day following the sale of the Prudential Properties to Prudential as described in The Prudential Acquisition and Related Agreements.
Structure of the Partnership Merger
Immediately following the REIT Merger, Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Brandywine Operating Partnership, will merge with and into Prentiss Operating Partnership, with Prentiss Operating Partnership continuing as the surviving entity. Immediately after consummation of the Partnership Merger, the limited partners of the Prentiss Operating Partnership will be Brandywine Operating Partnership and Brandywine Cognac I (which at that point will be a subsidiary of Brandywine Operating Partnership).
Partnership Merger Consideration
Conversion of the Prentiss Operating Partnership Common Units
At the effective time of the Partnership Merger, each issued and outstanding Prentiss Operating Partnership common unit (excluding common units owned or held by Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership, Brandywine Cognac I, Brandywine Cognac II, Parent, the general partner of Prentiss Operating Partnership or Prentiss Operating Partnership or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries which shall which shall remain issued and outstanding and unchanged by the Partnership Merger) shall be converted into the right to receive 1.3799 Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units. If the cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration is reduced because the Prentiss board of trustees declares either the Special Dividend, or a pre-closing dividend to maintain the REIT status of Prentiss that is in excess of the $0.56 per share quarterly dividend, then the 1.3799 exchange ratio will be adjusted to equal the sum of (i) 0.69 plus (ii) the quotient obtained by dividing the per share amount of the cash consideration payable in the REIT Merger by $31.1594. We refer to the exchange ratio, as it may be adjusted, as the Common Interest Exchange Ratio.
The Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units to be issued in the Partnership Merger will, at any time and from time to time after the Partnership Merger, be exchangeable, at the request of the holder of such units, for Brandywine common shares, or for cash, at Brandywines option, on a one-for-one basis.
Closing and Effective Time of the Partnership Merger
The closing of the Partnership Merger shall take place immediately after the effectiveness of the REIT Merger. The Partnership Merger shall become effective at such time as the merger certificate is duly filed with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, or at such later time as Brandywine and Prentiss shall agree and specify in the merger certificate.
The Optional Partnership Election
Holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units may elect to receive the REIT Merger consideration described above in REIT Merger considerationConversion of Prentiss Common Shares if they convert their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units into Prentiss common share prior to the effective time of the REIT Merger instead of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units.
Exchange of Securities; No Fractional Shares; Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates; Withholding Rights
Exchange of Securities
Brandywine will deposit with Computershare Limited or another bank or trust company, cash and certificates evidencing Brandywine common shares to be paid to the holders of Prentiss common shares under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. Promptly after the REIT Merger, each record holder of a certificate evidencing common shares of Prentiss shall be sent a letter of transmittal and instructions on how to surrender such certificate. Thereafter, each holder of Prentiss common shares who returns a duly executed transmittal letter and such other documents as are reasonably required by the exchange agent and surrenders any certificates evidencing such holders Prentiss common shares shall receive a certificate or certificates
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evidencing the number of full Brandywine common shares into which the aggregate number of Prentiss common shares owned by such holder have been converted pursuant to the merger agreement and the cash consideration, plus any cash that such holder is entitled to in lieu of fractional Brandywine common shares and in respect of any dividends or other distributions to which such holder is entitled.
Holders of unexchanged Prentiss common shares will not be entitled to receive any dividends or other distributions payable by Brandywine with respect to those Brandywine common shares into which such Prentiss common shares are to be converted pursuant to the merger agreement or cash in lieu of fractional Brandywine common shares (to the extent applicable) until the applicable Prentiss certificate is surrendered. Upon surrender or transfer, those holders will receive, without interest, any accumulated dividends and distributions together with any cash in lieu of fractional shares.
No Fractional Shares
Each holder of Prentiss common shares exchanged in the REIT Merger who would otherwise have been entitled to receive a fraction of a Brandywine common share shall receive, in lieu thereof, cash in an amount equal to the product of (i) such fractional part of a Brandywine common share multiplied by (ii) the average closing prices of Brandywine common shares quoted on the New York Stock Exchange for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger. As promptly as practicable after the determination of the amount of cash, if any, to be paid to holders of fractional interests, the exchange agent shall so notify Brandywine, and Brandywine shall cause the exchange agent to forward payments to such holders of fractional interests.
Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates
Upon the making of an affidavit that a certificate evidencing Prentiss common shares has been lost, stolen or destroyed, and at Brandywines option upon the delivery of an indemnity bond, the exchange agent will issue the Brandywine common shares, any cash in lieu of fractional Brandywine common shares (to the extent applicable) and any unpaid dividends or other distributions in respect of the Brandywine common shares represented by the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate to which the holder is entitled.
Withholding Rights
Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership generally shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the consideration otherwise payable pursuant to the merger agreement to any holder of Prentiss common shares, Prentiss Operating Partnership common units or Prentiss options such amounts as they are required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making of such payment under the Internal Revenue Code and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any provision of state, local or foreign tax law.
Prentiss Options
The merger agreement provides that, as of the effective time of the REIT Merger, all unexercised vested and unvested Prentiss share options outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Merger, including those held by Prentiss trustees and executive officers, will be assumed by Brandywine and all such options will be automatically converted into options to purchase on the same terms and conditions as were applicable under the relevant Prentiss option (taking into account any changes thereto) a number of Brandywine common shares equal to the number of Brandywine common shares subject to the options multiplied by the option exchange ratio, rounded to the nearest share. The per share exercise price would equal the exercise price in the original option divided by the option exchange ratio, rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent.
For purposes of the share option calculation described above, option exchange ratio equals a fraction, the numerator of which is the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger consideration on the REIT Merger closing date (with the portion of the REIT Merger consideration that consists of Brandywine common shares valued at the average of the closing prices of the Brandywine common shares for the ten trading day period ending on the trading day prior to the REIT Merger) and the denominator of which is such ten-day average closing price; adjusted for the per share amount of the Special Dividend (if any) declared on Prentiss common shares prior to the REIT Merger closing date. See REIT Merger Consideration.
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The merger agreement provides that Prentiss may, in its sole discretion, allow each holder of a Prentiss share option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of the treatment described above, to convert the option into the right to receive an amount of cash at the REIT Merger effective time equal to the product of (i) the excess, if any, of the sum of the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger consideration on the REIT Merger closing date (with the portion of the REIT Merger consideration that consists of Brandywine common shares valued at the ten-day average trading price referred to in the preceding paragraph) and the per share amount of the Special Dividend (if any) declared prior to the REIT Merger closing date, over the per share exercise price of such option and (ii) the number of Prentiss common shares subject to the option (such payment to be net of all applicable withholding taxes).
Representations and Warranties
The merger agreement contains representations and warranties made by Prentiss and the Prentiss Operating Partnership to Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership. These representations and warranties relate to, among other things:
| organization, valid existence, good standing and qualification to do business; |
| ownership of subsidiaries; |
| authorization to enter into, and validity and enforceability of, the merger agreement; |
| absence of any conflict of the merger agreement with organizational documents, applicable laws or agreements, and the absence of governmental consents, filings and approvals necessary to complete the Mergers; |
| capitalization and the payment of dividends; |
| filings with the SEC, financial statements and compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; |
| absence of certain changes or events since December 31, 2004; |
| various environmental matters, including compliance with environmental laws; |
| various matters relating to owned and leased properties; |
| absence of material undisclosed liabilities; |
| absence of defaults under organizational documents and agreements; |
| possession of all permits and regulatory approvals and compliance with all applicable laws; |
| absence of material pending or threatened litigation and outstanding or threatened governmental orders; |
| tax matters; |
| employee benefit plans; |
| labor and employment matters; |
| validity and absence of defaults under material contracts; |
| ownership and validity of intellectual property rights; |
| insurance matters; |
| brokers and finders fees in connection with the merger agreement; |
| certain related party transactions; |
| opinion of financial advisor; |
| the Investment Company Act of 1940; |
| board of trustees approval; |
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| inapplicability of anti-takeover statutes and certain provisions in Prentiss Declaration of Trust and the Prentiss Operating Partnerships limited partnership agreement to the Mergers; |
| required votes for the Mergers; |
| information supplied for use in this joint proxy statement/prospectus; and |
| absence of anti-trust filings. |
The merger agreement also contains representations and warranties made by Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership to Prentiss and the Prentiss Operating Partnership. These representations and warranties relate to, among other things:
| organization, valid existence, good standing and qualification to do business; |
| ownership of subsidiaries; |
| authorization to enter into, and validity and enforceability of, the merger agreement; |
| absence of any conflict of the merger agreement with organizational documents, applicable laws or agreements, and the absence of governmental consents, filings and approvals necessary to complete the Mergers; |
| capitalization and the payment of dividends; |
| filings with the SEC, financial statements and compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; |
| absence of certain changes or events since December 31, 2004; |
| various environmental matters, including compliance with environmental laws; |
| various matters relating to owned and leased properties; |
| absence of material undisclosed liabilities; |
| absence of defaults under organizational documents and agreements; |
| possession of all permits and regulatory approvals and compliance with all applicable laws; |
| absence of material pending or threatened litigation and outstanding or threatened governmental orders; |
| tax matters; |
| employee benefit plans; |
| labor and employment matters; |
| validity and absence of defaults under material contracts; |
| ownership and validity of intellectual property rights; |
| insurance matters; |
| brokers and finders fees in connection with the merger agreement; |
| certain related party transactions; |
| opinion of financial advisor; |
| the Investment Company Act of 1940; |
| board of trustees approval; |
| inapplicability of anti-takeover statutes and certain provisions in Brandywines Declaration of Trust and the Brandywine Operating Partnerships limited partnership agreement to the Mergers; |
| required votes for the Mergers; |
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| information supplied for use in this joint proxy statement/prospectus; |
| absence of liabilities of Brandywine Cognac I and Brandywine Cognac II; and |
| absence of anti-trust filings. |
Certain of these representations and warranties are qualified as to materiality or material adverse effect. For purposes of the merger agreement, material adverse effect means with respect to Prentiss or Brandywine a material adverse effect on the business, properties, liabilities, financial condition or results of operations of Prentiss or Brandywine (as the case may be) and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or which materially impairs or materially delays the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, other than any change resulting from or attributable to: (i) general national or international economic conditions or securities markets in general, (ii) the announcement, execution or consummation of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, or (iii) conditions generally affecting the industry in which Prentiss or Brandywine (as the case may be) and its subsidiaries operate (except to the extent disproportionately affecting such person relative to other industry participants).
The representations and warranties in the merger agreement do not survive the effective time of the Mergers and, except as described below under Termination Fees; Other Expenses if the agreement is validly terminated, neither party will have any liability or obligation for its representations and warranties, or otherwise under the merger agreement, unless the party has willfully breached any representation, warranty or covenant contained therein.
Conduct of Business Pending the Mergers.
Each of Brandywine and Prentiss have made covenants in the merger agreement concerning the conduct of its respective businesses between the date the merger agreement was signed and the completion of the Mergers. The following summarizes the more significant of these covenants.
Interim Operations of Prentiss
Subject to specified exceptions such as certain sales of properties, Prentiss has agreed that it and its subsidiaries shall conduct their respective businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course in substantially the same manner as previously conducted and shall use their commercially reasonable best efforts to preserve their current business organizations, assets and technologies, keep available the services of their current officers and employees and maintain their relationships with customers, collaborators, suppliers, licensors, licensees, distributors and others having business dealings with them. Prentiss has also agreed that it and its subsidiaries shall not authorize, commit or agree to do the following, subject to certain exceptions, without the prior written consent of Brandywine:
| other than as permitted pursuant to the merger agreement (A) except for dividends from a wholly owned subsidiary to its parent entity or distributions pursuant to certain joint ventures, declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other distributions in respect of,
any of their capital stock or other ownership interests, (B) split, combine or reclassify any of their capital stock or other ownership interests, or issue or authorize the issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for shares of their capital stock or
other ownership interests, (C) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock or other ownership interests of Prentiss and its subsidiaries or any other securities thereof or any rights, warrants or options to acquire any such shares or other securities, (D)
take any action the result of which is that Prentiss acquires, forms or creates a subsidiary, or (E) take any action the result of which is that Prentiss or a subsidiary acquires or otherwise owns any equity interest in any other person; |
| issue, deliver, sell, pledge, grant or otherwise encumber (A) any shares of their capital stock or other ownership interests except for certain issuances to which Prentiss was committed prior to the execution of the merger agreement, (B) any voting debt or other voting
securities, (C) any securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or any options, warrants, calls or rights to acquire, any such shares, voting debt, voting securities or convertible or exchangeable securities or (D) any phantom stock, phantom stock rights, stock
appreciation rights, stock-based performance units or other rights or interests based on or linked to the value of Prentiss common shares; |
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| amend their organizational documents; |
| directly or indirectly acquire or agree to acquire (A) by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing all or a portion of the assets of, or equity interests in, or by any other manner, any business or any corporation, partnership, joint venture, association or other business
organization or division thereof or (B) any assets, including real estate, in each case other than purchases in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $1.0 million individually or $5.0 million in the aggregate or as
otherwise specifically set forth in the corporate budget delivered to Brandywine; |
| (A) increase the compensation
or benefits payable or to become payable to the officers or employees
of Prentiss, any subsidiary of Prentiss or any affiliate thereof (subject
to a permitted increase to the compensation payable to employees of
Prentiss or any affiliate thereof by up to, in the aggregate for all
employees, $100,000), (B) establish, adopt, enter into or amend any
collective bargaining, bonus, profit sharing, thrift, compensation,
employment, termination, severance, stock incentive or other plan,
agreement, trust, fund, policy or
arrangement for the benefit of any trustee, officer or employee, (C) increase
the benefits payable under any existing severance or termination pay
policies or employment or other agreements, (D) make any material determinations
not in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice
under any collective bargaining agreement employee benefit plan, (E)
amend or modify any option plan, (F) grant or promise any tax offset
payment award under any option plan, (G) make any loan or cash advance
to, or engage in any
transaction with, any current or former trustee, officer or employee or (H) make
any loan or cash advance to any current or former consultant or independent
contractor; |
| (A) enter into any employment, consulting or severance agreement with or grant any material severance or termination pay to any officer, trustee or employee of Prentiss or any subsidiary, (B) hire or agree to hire any new or additional employees or officers other than to
replace existing employees or hiring in the ordinary course of business (C) otherwise enter into, amend or otherwise modify any agreement or arrangement with any person that is an affiliate of Prentiss or, as of the date of the merger agreement, was an employee, officer or
trustee of Prentiss or any subsidiary; |
| make any change in accounting methods, principles or practices affecting the reported consolidated assets, liabilities or results of operations of Prentiss; |
| directly or indirectly transfer, sell, lease (as lessor), license, sell and leaseback, mortgage or otherwise dispose of or encumber or subject to any encumbrance any properties or assets or any interest therein, except sales of immaterial assets in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $3,000,000 in one transaction or series of related transactions or as otherwise specifically reflected in the corporate budget delivered to Brandywine, or enter into or amend, modify or terminate any
material contract or waive, release or assign any material rights or claims thereunder; |
| except in connection with the defeasance or prepayment of certain identified loans, incur any indebtedness for borrowed money or guarantee any such indebtedness of another person, issue or sell any debt securities or warrants or other rights to acquire any debt securities
of Prentiss, guarantee any debt securities of another person, enter into any keep well or other agreement to maintain any financial statement condition of another person or enter into any arrangement having the economic effect of any of the foregoing, or make any loans,
advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other person; |
|
| (A) enter into any new commitments obligating Prentiss or any subsidiary to make capital expenditures in excess of $500,000 individually or $2.0 million in the aggregate, not including tenant allowances under existing leases, (B) acquire, enter into any option to acquire,
or exercise an option or other right or election or enter into any other commitment or contractual obligation for the acquisition of any real property or other transaction involving in excess of $1.0 million individually or $3.5 million in the aggregate, (C) commence
construction of, or enter into any commitment to develop or construct, other real estate projects involving in excess of $3.5 million or (D) enter into |
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any lease in excess of 25,000 square feet or incur or commit to incur any tenant allowances or landlord funded construction expenditures related thereto; |
| (A) settle or compromise any material tax liability or waive or extend the statute of limitations with respect to any taxes of Prentiss or any subsidiary, (B) take or omit to take any action that could cause the termination or revocation of Prentiss REIT status or the status of
any subsidiary as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes where such subsidiary presently files tax returns as a partnership, (C) make or rescind any material election relating to taxes of Prentiss or any subsidiary or (D) enter into, or permit any subsidiary to enter
into, any tax protection arrangement; |
| (A) settle or compromise any claim, litigation or other legal proceeding, other than those wholly-covered by insurance or in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $200,000 individually or $1.0 million in the
aggregate (other than settlement of identified tenant receivables), (B) pay, discharge, settle or satisfy any claims (including claims of shareholders), liabilities or obligations (absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), (C) cancel any indebtedness or
waive, release, grant or transfer any claims or rights of material value or (D) waive any benefit of, or agree to modify in any adverse respect, or fail to enforce, or consent to any matter with respect to which its consent is required under, any confidentiality, standstill or
similar agreement to which Prentiss is a party; |
| in connection with any development property, fail to diligently pursue the development, rehabilitation, renovation, addition or expansion of each such development property in a manner that is (A) in accordance with Prentiss past development practices and (B) consistent
in all material respects with the applicable development budget and schedule; |
| commence any lawsuit, arbitration or any administrative proceeding against any third party, excluding actions brought in the ordinary course of business (other than with respect to the Prudential Properties, for which actions may be brought only against tenants in such
properties under leases which actions do not involve eviction proceedings or to enforce contractual rights); |
| make any payments or incur any liability or obligation for the purpose of obtaining any consent from any person to the Mergers; |
| permit any insurance policy naming Prentiss or any subsidiary as a beneficiary or a loss payable payee to be canceled or terminated without notice to Brandywine unless such entity shall have obtained, prior to or simultaneous with such cancellation or termination, an
insurance policy with substantially similar terms and conditions to the canceled or terminated policy; |
| take any action that would reasonably be expected to (A) result in any condition to the REIT Merger not being satisfied in all material respects or (B) prevent, materially delay or materially impede the consummation of the REIT Merger or the other transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement; or |
| take any action that would reasonably be expected to result in (A) any representation and warranty of Prentiss set forth in the merger agreement that is qualified as to materiality becoming untrue or (B) any such representation and warranty that is not so qualified becoming
untrue in any material respect. |
Interim Operations of Brandywine
Subject to specified exceptions, Brandywine has agreed that it and its subsidiaries shall conduct their respective businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course in substantially the same manner as previously conducted and shall use their commercially reasonable best efforts to preserve their current business organizations, assets and technologies, keep available the services of their current officers and employees and maintain their relationships with customers, collaborators, suppliers, licensors, licensees, distributors and others having business dealings with them. Brandywine has also agreed that it and its subsidiaries shall not authorize, commit or agree to do the following, subject to certain exceptions, without the prior written consent of Prentiss:
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| other than as permitted pursuant to the merger agreement, (A) except for dividends from a wholly owned subsidiary to its parent entity or distributions pursuant to specified joint venture agreements, declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other
distributions in respect of, any of their capital stock or other ownership interests, (B) split, combine or reclassify any of their capital stock or other ownership interests, or issue or authorize the issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for
shares of their capital stock or other ownership interests, (C) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock or other ownership interests of Brandywine and its subsidiaries or any other securities thereof or any rights, warrants or options to acquire any
such shares or other securities, (D) take any action the result of which is that Brandywine acquires, forms or creates a subsidiary, or (E) take any action the result of which is that Brandywine or a subsidiary acquires or otherwise owns any equity interest in any other
person; |
| issue, deliver, sell, pledge, grant or otherwise encumber (A) any shares of their capital stock or other ownership interests other than certain issuances for which Brandywine was committed prior to the execution of the merger agreement, (B) any voting debt or other voting
securities, (C) any securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or any options, warrants, calls or rights to acquire, any such shares, voting debt, voting securities or convertible or exchangeable securities or (D) any phantom stock, phantom stock rights, stock
appreciation rights, stock-based performance units or other rights or interests based on or linked to the value of Brandywine common shares; |
| amend their organizational documents; |
| directly or indirectly acquire or agree to acquire (A) by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing all or a portion of the assets of, or equity interests in, or by any other manner, any business or any corporation, partnership, joint venture, association or other business
organization or division thereof or (B) any assets, including real estate, in each case other than purchases in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $1.0 million individually or $5.0 million in the aggregate or as
otherwise specifically set forth in the corporate budget delivered to Brandywine; |
| make any change in accounting methods, principles or practices affecting the reported consolidated assets, liabilities or results of operations of Brandywine; |
| (A) settle or compromise any material tax liability or waive or extend the statute of limitations with respect to any taxes of Brandywine or any subsidiary, (B) take or omit to take any action that could cause the termination or revocation of Brandywines REIT status or the
status of any subsidiary as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes where such subsidiary presently files tax returns as a partnership, (C) make or rescind any material election relating to taxes of Brandywine or any subsidiary or (D) enter into, or permit any
subsidiary to enter into, any tax protection arrangement; or |
| take any action that would reasonably be expected to (A) result in any condition to the REIT Merger not being satisfied in all material respects or (B) prevent, materially delay or materially impede the consummation of the REIT Merger or the other transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement. |
Access to Information
Prentiss and Brandywine have agreed to provide each other with reasonable and prompt access to its and its subsidiaries respective properties, books, contracts, commitments, representatives and records, subject to applicable law and confidentiality obligations.
Prentiss Shareholder Meeting and Prentiss Board of Trustees Covenant to Recommend
The merger agreement requires Prentiss to call and hold a meeting of its shareholders to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions. Prentiss, however, is not required to hold a special meeting if the merger agreement is terminated. Additionally, subject to specified conditions related to its duties discussed below, the board of trustees of Prentiss has agreed to recommend that Prentiss common shareholders vote in favor of approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related
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transactions. Prentiss has agreed, subject to certain exceptions, to give Brandywine three business days prior written notice of any withdrawal of its recommendation to its shareholders to approve the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
Brandywine Shareholder Meeting and Brandywine Board of Trustees Covenant to Recommend
The merger agreement requires Brandywine to call and hold a meeting of its shareholders to approve the issuance of Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement.
No Solicitation
The merger agreement precludes Prentiss and any of its subsidiaries from, directly or indirectly (through its officers, trustees, employees, investment bankers, attorneys, accountants, auditors or other advisors or representatives):
| soliciting, initiating, encouraging or taking any other action to facilitate (including by the furnishing of information) the submission of any inquiry, proposal or offer from any person (other than Brandywine or its affiliates) relating to, or that could reasonably be expected
to lead to, any Takeover Proposal; |
| agreeing to, approving or recommending any Takeover Proposal or entering into any agreement with respect to any Takeover Proposal; or |
| entering into, continuing or otherwise participating in any discussions or negotiations regarding, or furnishing to any person any information with respect to, or taking any other action to facilitate any inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or could
reasonably be expected to lead to, any Takeover Proposal. |
Takeover Proposal means any offer or proposal for any direct or indirect acquisition or purchase, in one transaction or a series of transactions, of 30% or more of the assets of Prentiss and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or 30% or more in voting power of the outstanding Prentiss common shares or any class or series of equity or voting securities of Prentiss or any significant subsidiary (including without limitation the partnership units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership), any tender offer or exchange offer that if consummated would result in any person beneficially owning 30% or more in voting power of the outstanding Prentiss common shares, or any merger, consolidation, business combination, recapitalization, reclassification, share exchange, liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction or series of transactions involving Prentiss or any significant subsidiary.
The merger agreement also requires Prentiss to notify Brandywine promptly after receipt or occurrence of (i) any Takeover Proposal, (ii) any request for information with respect to any Takeover Proposal or (iii) any inquiry, proposal, discussions or negotiation with respect to any Takeover Proposal. Such notice shall include the material terms and conditions of any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry, proposal, discussion or negotiation and the identity of the person making any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry or proposal or with whom discussions or negotiations are taking place. Prentiss must inform Brandywine in all material respects of the status and details (including amendments or proposed amendments) of any such inquiry, request or Takeover Proposal.
Nothing in the merger agreement prohibits Prentiss and the Prentiss board of trustees from making any disclosure to Prentiss common shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of the Prentiss board of trustees (after having obtained sufficient preliminary information upon which to make such judgment), after consultation with outside counsel, failure to disclose would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of its duties under applicable law; except that, other than as permitted in the merger agreement, Prentiss, the Prentiss board of trustees or any committee of the Prentiss board of trustees may not withdraw (or modify in a manner adverse to Brandywine), or propose to withdraw (or modify in a manner adverse to Brandywine), its position with respect to the merger agreement, the related agreements or the Mergers or adopt, approve or recommend, or propose to adopt, approve or recommend, a Takeover Proposal.
Before the REIT Merger becomes effective, Prentiss may negotiate and participate in discussions and negotiations with a person that has made an unsolicited written Takeover Proposal that has not resulted from
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a breach of the No Solicitation provision described above. In such a situation, Prentiss may furnish information concerning its business, properties or assets to such person pursuant to appropriate confidentiality agreements (on terms not less favorable to Prentiss than the confidentiality agreement between Brandywine and Prentiss); except that the Prentiss board of trustees is allowed to take any such action if, and only if, prior to taking such action, the Prentiss board of trustees has determined (after having obtained sufficient preliminary information upon which to make such determination) by the affirmative vote of a majority of all of the members of the Prentiss board of trustees or any committee of the board to which the power to consider such matters has been delegated that (i) such Takeover Proposal would result in, or would be reasonably likely to result in, a Superior Proposal and (ii) after receiving advice from outside legal counsel, the failure to provide information or access or to engage in discussions or negotiations with such person would be reasonably likely to cause the Prentiss board of trustees to breach its statutory duties to Prentiss under applicable law.
Superior Proposal means a Takeover Proposal (as defined above, except that the references to 30% in such definition shall be deemed to be a reference to 50%) whereby the person making such proposal has on an unsolicited basis submitted a bona fide written proposal to Prentiss on terms that the Prentiss board of trustees determines in its good faith judgment (after consultation with a nationally recognized financial advisor, taking into account all the terms and conditions of the Takeover Proposal, including any break-up fees, expense reimbursement provisions and conditions to consummation) are more favorable to the Prentiss common shareholders, from a financial point of view, than the merger agreement and the REIT Merger, taken as a whole, and that is reasonably capable of being completed.
If the Prentiss board of trustees, after consultation with outside legal counsel, determines that failure to accept a Superior Proposal would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of the statutory duties of the Prentiss board of trustees to Prentiss under applicable law, the Prentiss board of trustees may inform the holders of Prentiss common shares that it no longer believes that the REIT Merger is advisable and no longer recommends approval. However, the Prentiss board of trustees may only withdraw its recommendation before the Prentiss common shareholders meeting to vote on the merger agreement and three business days after specifying the terms, conditions and identity of the Superior Proposal to Brandywine. In addition, the Prentiss board of trustees may only withdraw its recommendation if (i) during the three business day period Brandywine does not make an offer that the Prentiss board of trustees reasonably concludes in good faith (following consultation with its nationally recognized financial advisors and outside counsel) is more favorable to the Prentiss common shareholders than such Superior Proposal and (ii) at the end of the three business day period, the Takeover Proposal continues to be a Superior Proposal. If Prentiss complies with these provisions, at any time after the three business day period following notification to Brandywine of the consideration by Prentiss to do so (but in no event following approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions at the Prentiss special meeting), Prentiss may terminate the merger agreement and enter into an agreement with respect to the Superior Proposal; provided that prior to such termination Prentiss must pay to Brandywine the full amounts, if any, required under the section below entitled Termination Fees; Other Expenses to be paid at that time.
Reasonable Best Efforts Covenant
Each of the parties to the merger agreement has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and do, or cause to be done, and to assist and cooperate with the other parties in doing, all things necessary, proper or advisable to complete the REIT Merger, the Partnership Merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement in the most expeditious manner practicable, including using reasonable best efforts to obtain all necessary actions or nonactions, waivers, consents, approvals, orders and authorizations from governmental entities and to make all necessary registrations, declarations and filings (including filings with governmental entities, if any) and to take all steps as may be necessary to obtain an approval or waiver from, or to avoid an action or proceeding by, any governmental entity. However, in connection with using its reasonable best efforts, Brandywine will not be required to (i) divest or hold separate or enter into any licensing or similar arrangement with respect to any assets (whether tangible or intangible) or any of the businesses of Brandywine, Prentiss or any of their respective affiliates or (ii) cease to conduct business or operations in any jurisdiction in which Brandywine, Prentiss or any of their respective affiliates conducts business or operations as of the date of the merger agreement.
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Each of the parties to the merger agreement has also agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to obtain all consents of third parties necessary, advisable to consummate the REIT Merger and the related transactions.
Employee Matters
In the merger agreement, Brandywine has agreed that following the REIT Merger, Brandywine will or will cause the surviving company, as applicable, or any subsidiary of either of them to:
| Interview Prentiss employees and may in its discretion (taking into account the views of Prentiss) offer employment as of the closing date of the REIT Merger to Prentiss field level employees on terms and conditions, including salary and bonus, which are no less
favorable than those under which such employees are currently employed, and with benefits that are no less favorable in the aggregate to those applicable to similarly situated employees of Brandywine as in effect from time to time. Brandywine has agreed to continue
such salary, benefits and bonuses of each such employee who accepts such offer of employment for a period of one year from the closing date of the REIT Merger, unless such employee voluntarily resigns or is terminated for cause; |
| Interview Prentiss corporate level employees with the goal of offering each such employee a position with Brandywine reasonably comparable to the position such employee currently holds with Prentiss. Offers of employment, if made, shall include compensation and
bonus, which are no less favorable than those under which such employee is currently employed and with other benefits in line with similar positions at Brandywine Operating Partnership or any of its Affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no legal obligation shall be
created on Brandywine Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates to hire any such executive employees of Prentiss. Brandywine has entered into employment agreements with four executive officers of Prentiss. Brandywine intends to enter into employment agreements
with two additional executive officers of Prentiss. These agreements will not become effective for any purpose unless and until the REIT Merger is consummated. See Interests of Prentiss Executive Officers and Trustees in the MergersEmployment of other Prentiss
Executive Level Employees; |
| Honor all Prentiss employment agreements, in accordance with their respective terms, as in effect on the date of the Mergers; |
| Honor in accordance with their terms all vested accrued benefit obligations to, and contractual rights of, current and former employees of Prentiss and its subsidiaries, including Prentiss recently instituted severance policy. Prentiss may make any required employee
matching contributions under the 401(k) Plan in a manner consistent with historical practices; |
| Waive any pre-existing exclusions and waiting periods under welfare plans maintained by Brandywine and its affiliates with respect to participant and coverage requirements applicable to Prentiss employees (except to the extent that any pre-existing condition or waiting
period would have been applicable under the comparable Prentiss plan immediately prior to the Mergers). Brandywine shall also recognize under its plans any co-payments or deductibles paid by the Prentiss employees under Prentiss plans during the calendar year in
which the Mergers occur; and |
| Grant the Prentiss employees, after the Mergers, full service credit for all purposes in any Brandywine employee benefit plan, to the extent that such a plan is made available to an employee of Prentiss, but only to such extent that the recognition of such service does not
result in the duplication of benefits. |
Prior to December 31, 2005, or at such later time as may be permitted under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code and the regulations and guidance issued thereunder (referred to as Section 409A), and in accordance with, and to the extent permitted under Section 409A, the participants in the Prentiss deferred compensation plans shall be permitted to amend the timing and form of payments to be made under the Prentiss deferred compensation plans, and thereafter, that Prentiss shall amend the Prentiss deferred compensation plans to the extent necessary to conform to Section 409A. All amounts currently deferred under the Prentiss deferred compensation plans shall become vested at the Effective Time except to the extent otherwise provided in the Disclosure Letter. Subject to Section 409A, Parent shall assume the Prentiss
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deferred compensation plans and maintain the Prentiss deferred compensation plans, as amended, in accordance with their respective terms for the benefit of the participants thereunder to the extent that such participants maintain account balances after the REIT Merger.
Prentiss employees as of October 3, 2005, with certain exceptions, participate in the Companys recently enacted and disclosed severance policy that provides benefits in the event they are not offered comparable positions by either Brandywine, Prudential, or Prudentials third-party management companies. Under defined conditions in both the Prentiss severance policy and in the merger agreement, covered participants may also receive severance protection in the event they are hired, but subsequently discharged, by either Brandywine, Prudential, or Prudentials third-party management companies. Benefit levels and benefit eligibility periods vary according to factors that include a participants position, location, title, and length of service. Prentiss employees who become Brandywine employees also will be credited for prior service for purposes of determining severance benefits under Brandywines general severance practices.
Limitation of Liability, Indemnification and Insurance
The merger agreement provides that, following completion of the REIT Merger, all past and present trustees and officers of Prentiss will be indemnified to the same extent these individuals were indemnified as of the date of the merger agreement pursuant to the Declaration of Trust and Bylaws of Prentiss for acts or omissions occurring at or prior to the completion of the REIT Merger and that certain indemnification agreements between Prentiss and trustees and officers will be assumed by Brandywine. In addition, for six years after the REIT Merger, Brandywine will maintain in effect provisions regarding elimination of liability of trustees, indemnification of officers, trustees and employees and advancement of expenses which are no less advantageous to the intended beneficiaries than those currently contained in the Declaration of Trust and Bylaws of Prentiss.
The merger agreement further provides for the maintenance of trustees and officers liability insurance for six years after completion of the REIT Merger with respect to claims arising from facts or events that occurred on or before completion of the REIT Merger, including events that are related to the merger agreement. However, Brandywine will not be required to expend more than 200% of annual premiums currently paid by Prentiss for such insurance. If the annual premiums exceed this amount, then Brandywine will be obligated to obtain a policy with the greatest coverage available subject to the above limit.
Listing of Shares
Brandywine has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Brandywine common shares to be issued in the REIT Merger, the Brandywine common shares to be reserved for issuance upon the exercise of Brandywine options issued in exchange for Prentiss options and the Brandywine common shares to be reserved for issuance upon the conversion of the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units, to be issued upon exchange of the Prentiss Operating Partnership common units in the Partnership Merger, to be approved for listing, upon official notice of issuance, on the New York Stock Exchange. Brandywine filed a supplemental listing application with the New York Stock Exchange on November 8, 2005 and received confirmation on November 11, 2005 that the New York Stock Exchange has authorized, upon official notice of issuance, the listing of these shares.
Coordination of Dividends
The merger agreement prohibits Prentiss and the Prentiss Operating Partnership from making any distribution or dividend without the prior written consent of Brandywine. Permission is not required, however, for (i) distributions required for Prentiss to maintain its REIT status, (ii) quarterly distributions of up to $0.56 per Prentiss common share and (iii) a distribution per common unit of the Prentiss Operating Partnership in the same amount as any dividend Prentiss common share permitted under the merger agreement.
Brandywine and Prentiss have agreed to coordinate setting the record and payment dates for each distribution with respect to the Prentiss common shares with the record and payment dates for quarterly dividends on the Brandywine common shares. On November 9, 2005, Prentiss and Brandywine each declared its fourth quarter 2005 dividend to be paid on January 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of November 18, 2005. Brandywine and Prentiss have agreed that the record date for the first quarter dividend for 2006 (if the
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closing of the REIT Merger shall not have occurred on or prior to December 31, 2005) shall be on or before the date which is ten days prior to the closing date of the REIT Merger.
The merger agreement provides that if a permitted distribution with respect to Prentiss common shares has a record date prior to the REIT Merger and has not been paid as of such effective time, the holders of the Prentiss common shares shall be entitled to receive such distribution at the time such shares are exchanged pursuant to the merger agreement.
Registration Rights
Brandywine has agreed to assume identified registration rights obligations of Prentiss after consummation of the REIT Merger, including the registration right of holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units. Brandywine has agreed that holders of registration rights under such agreements shall have substantially the same rights with respect to the registration of the Brandywine common shares that such holders may receive in the REIT Merger or upon conversion of securities received in the Mergers.
Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership and Michael V. Prentiss entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which Brandywine agreed to register the Brandywine common shares that Mr. Prentiss receives in the REIT Merger or upon conversion of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units received in the Partnership Merger. See Michael V. Prentiss Registration Rights Agreement.
Brandywine also agreed to use good faith commercially reasonable efforts to file, on or within thirty (30) days following the consummation of the REIT Merger, a shelf registration statement pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act registering the resale of Brandywine common shares issuable by Brandywine upon the conversion or redemption of any Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units received in the Partnership Merger. Brandywine agreed to use the recently approved automatic shelf registration process under Rule 415 and Rule 462 as promulgated under the Securities Act and use its best efforts to maintain its status as a well known seasoned issuer.
Brandywine Board of Trustees
Brandywine has agreed to use its best efforts to cause each of Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August to be elected as members of the Brandywine board of trustees. The merger agreement provides that each nominee will serve as a trustee for a term expiring at Brandywines next annual meeting of shareholders. Brandywine has agreed to use its best efforts to cause the Brandywine board of trustees to re-nominate each nominee as a trustee for election at Brandywines annual meeting of shareholders for each of 2006 and 2007.
Private Letter Ruling
Brandywine agreed to apply for, and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain, a private letter ruling from the IRS that confirms that the REIT Merger will (i) be treated for Federal income taxes as (x) a taxable sale of assets by Prentiss, immediately followed by (y) a taxable liquidation of Prentiss under Section 331 of the Internal Revenue Code, or (ii) that the Transactions do not constitute a reorganization as defined in Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. See Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of The REIT Merger and The Partnership Merger -Tax Consequences of the Merger-General-The Private Letter Ruling.
Other Covenants
The merger agreement contains certain other covenants, including covenants relating to cooperation between Brandywine and Prentiss in the preparation of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, public announcements, release of collateral, obtaining tenant estoppels and third party consents, suspension of dividend reinvestment plan and employee share purchase plan, assumption of indebtedness, assumption of obligations under registration rights agreements, redemption of certain securities, Section 16 matters and certain tax matters.
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Conditions to Completion of the REIT Merger
Conditions to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the REIT Merger
The obligations of each party to the merger agreement to complete the REIT Merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
| the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions by the requisite vote of Prentiss common shareholders; |
| the approval of the issuance of Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement by the requisite vote of Brandywines shareholders; |
| the absence of any temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other judgment issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition that has the effect of preventing the consummation of the REIT Merger, provided that
each party shall use its reasonable efforts to have any of the foregoing vacated, dismissed or withdrawn before the REIT Merger; |
| the approval of the listing on the New York Stock Exchange of the Brandywine common shares to be issued in or issuable as a result of the Mergers (which approval was obtained on November 11, 2005); and |
| the declaration of effectiveness of the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part by the SEC and the absence of any SEC stop order or any proceeding for such a stop order. |
Conditions to Obligation of Brandywine
The obligation of Brandywine to effect the REIT Merger is further subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
| each of the representations and warranties of Prentiss set forth in the merger agreement that is qualified as to materiality or material adverse effect shall have been true and correct as of the date of the merger agreement and at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger
as if made at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger and each of the representations and warranties of Prentiss that is not so qualified shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of the date of the merger agreement and at and as of the closing date of
the REIT Merger as if made at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger (except, in each case, for those representations and warranties which address matters only as of a particular date, in which case they shall have been true and correct, or true and correct in all
material respects, as applicable, as of such date); |
| Prentiss shall have performed in all material respects its obligations required to be performed by it at or prior to the closing of the REIT Merger; |
| there shall not have been any state of facts, change, development, effect, event, condition or occurrence since the date of the merger agreement that, individually or in the aggregate, constitutes, has had or would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on
Prentiss; |
| Brandywine shall have received an opinion of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, counsel to Prentiss, as to certain tax matters relating to Prentiss status as a REIT; |
| Prentiss shall have defeased the PPREFI portfolio loan and released the collateral securing such loan; |
| the general partner of Prentiss Operating Partnership shall be converted from a corporation to a limited liability company or shall have made a valid election on IRS Form 8875 to be treated as a taxable REIT subsidiary under Section 856(l) of the Internal Revenue Code;
and |
| Brandywine shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. |
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Conditions to Obligations of Prentiss
The obligation of Prentiss to effect the REIT Merger is further subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
| each of the representations and warranties of Brandywine set forth in the merger agreement that is qualified as to material adverse effect shall have been true and correct as of the date of the merger agreement and at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger as if made
at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger and each of the representations and warranties of Brandywine that is not so qualified shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of the date of the merger agreement and at and as of the closing date of the
REIT Merger as if made at and as of the closing date of the REIT Merger (except, in each case, for those representations and warranties which address matters only as of a particular date, in which case they shall have been true and correct, or true and correct in all material
respects, as applicable, as of such date); |
| Brandywine shall have performed in all material respects the obligations required to be performed by it at or prior to the closing of the REIT Merger; |
| there shall not have been any state of facts, change, development, effect, event, condition or occurrence since the date of the merger agreement that, individually or in the aggregate, constitutes, has had or would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on
Brandywine; |
| Prentiss shall have received
an opinion of Pepper Hamilton LLP, counsel to Brandywine, as to certain
tax matters relating to Brandywines status as a REIT; and |
| Prentiss shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. |
Waiver of Conditions to Closing of the REIT Merger
Where the law permits, a party to the merger agreement may elect to waive a condition to its obligation to complete the REIT Merger that has not been satisfied. We cannot be certain when (or if) the conditions to the REIT Merger will be satisfied or waived or that the REIT Merger will be completed. We expect to complete the REIT Merger as promptly as practicable after all of the conditions have been satisfied or waived.
Conditions to Closing of the Partnership Merger
The Partnership Merger is not subject to any conditions other than consummation of the REIT Merger.
Termination
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the REIT Merger is effected, whether before or after approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions by the Prentiss common shareholders, in any of the following ways:
| by mutual written agreement of Prentiss and Brandywine; |
| by either Prentiss or Brandywine if: |
| any governmental entity or authority shall have issued an order, decree or ruling or taken any other action in each case permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the Mergers substantially on the terms contemplated by the merger agreement and
such order, decree, ruling or other action shall have become final and non-appealable; |
| the REIT Merger shall not have been consummated on or before April 1, 2006, except that neither Prentiss nor Brandywine may terminate the merger agreement pursuant to this provision if its breach of any obligation under the merger agreement shall have been
the primary cause of the failure of the REIT Merger to occur on or before that date; or |
||
| approval for the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions shall not have been obtained by the required vote of the Prentiss common shareholders, or approval for |
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the issuance of the Brandywine common shares shall not have been obtained by the required vote of the Brandywine common shareholders; or |
| by Brandywine if: |
| the Prentiss board of trustees shall have withdrawn or materially modified its recommendation of the merger agreement or the REIT Merger in a manner adverse to Brandywine or shall have resolved to do so; |
| Prentiss shall have failed to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to vote on the REIT Merger and the merger agreement; |
| Prentiss shall have intentionally and materially breached any of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant; |
| Prentiss shall have entered into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; or |
| there shall have been a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by Prentiss which shall prevent satisfaction of the conditions to Brandywines obligation to close the REIT Merger and, in the case of a breach of a covenant that is reasonably
likely to be able to be cured, such breach shall not have been cured within 20 days following notice of breach or by April 1, 2006; or |
| by Prentiss if: |
| prior to the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions by the Prentiss common shareholders, the Prentiss board of trustees shall have approved, and Prentiss shall have concurrently entered into, a definitive agreement providing
for the implementation of a Superior Proposal, but only if Prentiss shall not then be in breach of the no solicitation provision of the merger agreement and shall concurrently pay Brandywine any termination fees required to be paid at that time; or |
| there shall have been a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by Brandywine which shall prevent satisfaction of the conditions to Prentiss obligation to close the REIT Merger and, in the case of a breach of a covenant that is reasonably
likely to be able to be cured, such breach shall not have been cured within 20 days following notice of breach or by April 1, 2006; or |
| Brandywine shall have failed
to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to approve
the issuance of the Brandywine common shares. |
If the merger agreement is validly terminated, it will become void and have no effect, without any liability or obligation on the part of any party unless the party is in willful breach thereof. However, the provisions of the merger agreement relating to the effects of termination and the payment of termination fees and expenses, as well as the confidentiality agreement entered into between Prentiss and Brandywine, will continue in effect notwithstanding termination of the merger agreement.
Termination Fees; Other Expenses
Payments to Brandywine
Prentiss has agreed to pay Brandywine a termination fee of $60 million if any of the following events occur:
| Brandywine terminates the merger agreement because: |
| the Prentiss board of trustees withdraws or materially modifies its recommendation of the merger agreement or the REIT Merger in a manner adverse to Brandywine or shall have resolved to do so; |
| Prentiss fails to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to vote on the REIT Merger and the merger agreement; |
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| Prentiss intentionally and materially breaches any of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant; or |
| Prentiss enters into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; |
| Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because the Prentiss board of trustees approves a definitive agreement providing for the implementation of a Superior Proposal prior to the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions; or |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because approval for the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions is not obtained by the required vote of the Prentiss common shareholders and a Takeover Proposal shall at the time of such
termination be publicly proposed or publicly announced and, within 9 months of the termination of the merger agreement, Prentiss or any subsidiary of Prentiss consummates a Takeover Proposal or enters into any definitive agreement with respect to any Takeover
Proposal that is subsequently consummated (whether or not such Takeover Proposal is the same Takeover Proposal which was received at the time of termination of the merger agreement) with any person. |
Prentiss has agreed to pay Brandywine a termination fee of $12.5 million if any of the following events occur:
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because approval for the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions is not obtained by the required vote of the Prentiss common shareholders and approval of the Brandywine common
shareholders for the issuance of the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement is obtained; or |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because it has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and Prentiss breach of any obligation under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the failure of the REIT Merger to occur on or before that date. |
If Brandywine qualifies to receive both the $60 million termination fee and the $12.5 million alternate fee, Brandywine will only receive the $60 million termination fee and not the $12.5 million alternate fee.
In addition to the termination fee, Prentiss has agreed to pay Brandywines out-of-pocket expenses up to $6,000,000 (including all fees and expenses of counsel, accountants, investment bankers, experts and consultants) incurred in connection with the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby if any of the following events occur:
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because approval for the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions is not obtained by the required vote of the Prentiss common shareholders; |
| Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because the Prentiss board of trustees approves a definitive agreement providing for the implementation of a Superior Proposal prior to the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions; |
| Brandywine terminates the merger agreement because: |
| the Prentiss board of trustees withdraws or materially modifies its recommendation of the merger agreement or the REIT Merger in a manner adverse to Brandywine or shall have resolved to do so; |
| Prentiss fails to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to vote on the REIT Merger and the merger agreement; |
| Prentiss intentionally and materially breaches any of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant; or |
| Prentiss enters into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; |
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| Brandywine terminates the merger agreement because there is a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by Prentiss which prevents the satisfaction of the conditions to Brandywines obligation to consummate the REIT Merger and such breach is not
reasonably likely to have been able to be cured or shall not have been cured within 20 days following notice of breach or by April 1, 2006; or |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because it has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and Prentiss breach of any obligation under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the failure of the REIT Merger to occur on or before that date. |
Payments to Prentiss
Brandywine has agreed to pay Prentiss an alternate termination fee of $12.5 million if any of the following events occur:
| Brandywine or Prentiss
terminates the merger agreement because approval for the issuance of
the Brandywine common shares is not have obtained by the required vote
of the Brandywine common shareholders and approval for the merger agreement,
the REIT Merger and the related transactions is obtained by the required
vote of the Prentiss common shareholders; |
| Prentiss terminates the
merger agreement because Brandywine fails to call or hold the special
meeting of its shareholders to vote on issuance of the Brandywine common
shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement;
or |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because it has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and Brandywines breach of any obligation under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the failure of the REIT Merger to occur on or before that date. |
In addition to the alternate termination fee, Brandywine has agreed to pay Prentiss out-of-pocket expenses up to $6,000,000 (including all fees and expenses of counsel, accountants, investment bankers, experts and consultants but excluding an identified amount incurred by Prentiss in connection with a specified loan deposit discussed below and which shall be payable in addition to the $6,000,000 in the circumstance provided below) incurred in connection with the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby if any of the following events occur:
| Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because there is a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by Brandywine prevents satisfaction of the conditions to Prentiss obligation to close the REIT Merger and such breach was not reasonably likely to
have been able to be cured or shall not have been cured within 20 days following notice of breach or by April 1, 2006; |
| Prentiss terminates the
merger agreement because Brandywine fails to call or hold the special
meeting of its shareholders to vote on issuance of the Brandywine common
shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement; |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because approval for the issuance of the Brandywine common shares is not obtained by the required vote of the Brandywine; or |
| Brandywine or Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because it has not been consummated by April 1, 2006 and Prentiss breach of any obligation under the merger agreement is the primary cause of the failure of the REIT Merger to occur on or before that date. |
Brandywine would be required to reimburse Prentiss for unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses and any lost deposits related to Prentiss termination of a proposed loan related to its Barton Skyway property if the merger agreement is terminated for any reason other than the following:
| Brandywine terminates the merger agreement because: |
| the Prentiss board of trustees withdraws or materially modifies its recommendation of the merger agreement or the REIT Merger in a manner adverse to Brandywine or shall have resolved to do so; |
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| Prentiss fails to call or hold the special meeting of its shareholders to vote on the REIT Merger and the merger agreement; |
| Prentiss intentionally and materially breaches any of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant; or |
| Prentiss enters into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; or |
| Brandywine terminates the merger agreement because there is a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by Prentiss which prevents satisfaction of the conditions to Brandywines obligation to close the REIT Merger and, in the case of a breach of a
covenant that is reasonably likely to be able to be cured, such breach is not cured within 20 days following notice of breach or by April 1, 2006; or |
| Prentiss terminates the merger agreement because, prior to the approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions by the Prentiss common shareholders, the Prentiss board of trustees approves, and Prentiss concurrently enters into, a definitive
agreement providing for the implementation of a Superior Proposal. |
Except as provided above or as otherwise provided in the merger agreement, all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the merger agreement will be paid by the party incurring such cost. However, each of Prentiss and Brandywine will pay 50% of any fees and expenses (other than attorneys and accounting fees and expenses) incurred in connection with the printing, filing and mailing of the registration statement, this joint proxy statement/prospectus and the Prentiss Operating Partnership common unitholder election materials.
Maximum Fee Amount
The termination fee or alternate termination fee shall not exceed the sum of (A) the maximum amount that can be paid to the party receiving the termination payment without causing the party receiving the termination payment to fail to meet the requirements of Sections 856(c)(2) and (3) of the Internal Revenue Code determined as if the payment of such amount did not constitute income described in Sections 856(c)(2)(A)-(H) and 856(c)(3)(A)-(I) of the Internal Revenue Code (Qualifying Income), as determined by independent accountants to the party receiving the termination payment, and (B) in the event the party receiving the termination payment receives and, prior to the date the termination fee is due to be paid to the party receiving the termination payment, provides a copy to the other party of, an opinion or a letter from outside counsel (the Termination Fee Tax Opinion) indicating that the party receiving the termination payment has received an opinion of counsel or a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service holding that such partys receipt of the termination fee or alternate termination fee would either constitute Qualifying Income or would be excluded from gross income of Brandywine within the meaning of Sections 856(c)(2) and (3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the REIT Requirements), the termination fee or alternate terminate fee less the amount payable under clause (A) above.
In the event that the party receiving the termination payment is not able to receive the full payment on the date the termination fee is due, the other party shall place the amount by which the termination fee or alternate termination fee exceeds the amount paid under clause (y)(A) of the preceding sentence above (the Unpaid Amount) in escrow and shall not release any portion thereof to the party receiving the termination payment unless and until such party provides the other with either one of the following: (A) a letter from the party receiving the termination payment independent accountants indicating the maximum portion of the Unpaid Amount that can be paid at that time to the party receiving the termination payment without causing such party to fail to meet the REIT Requirements or (B) a Termination Fee Tax Opinion, in either of which events Prentiss shall pay to Brandywine from the escrow the lesser of the Unpaid Amount and, if applicable, the maximum amount stated in the accountants letter referred to in clause (A) of this sentence. Prentiss obligation to pay any portion of the Unpaid Amount shall terminate three years from the date of the merger agreement. Amounts remaining in escrow after such obligation terminates shall be released to Prentiss.
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Amendments; Waivers
Any provision of the merger agreement may be amended before the effective time of the REIT Merger if, but only if, the amendment or waiver is in writing and signed by each party to the merger agreement. However, no amendment may be made after the Prentiss common shareholders have approved the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions that requires the approval of the Prentiss common shareholders unless such required approval is obtained.
At any time prior to the effective time of the REIT Merger, the parties to the merger agreement, by action taken or authorized by their respective boards of trustees (or other similar entity, as the case may be), may, to the extent legally allowed, (i) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other acts of the other parties, (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained in the merger agreement or in any document delivered pursuant thereto and (iii) waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained in the merger agreement. Any agreement on the part of a party to any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in a written instrument signed on behalf of such party. The failure of any party to assert any of its rights under the merger agreement or otherwise shall not constitute a waiver of those rights.
Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August Voting Agreements
Each of Michael V. Prentiss, Chairman of the Prentiss board of trustees, and Thomas F. August, President and Chief Executive Officer of Prentiss, have entered into a voting agreement with Brandywine and Brandywine Operating Partnership pursuant to which each of Messrs. Prentiss and August has agreed to vote all Prentiss common shares beneficially owned by such Prentiss common shareholder in favor of:
| approval of the merger agreement, the REIT Merger and the related transactions; and |
| any incidental matter reasonably determined by Brandywine and Brandywine Operating Partnership to be necessary in order to facilitate consummation of the REIT Merger. |
At any meeting of the Prentiss common shareholders, or at any adjournment thereof, or in any other circumstances upon which their vote, consent or other approval is sought, Messrs. Prentiss and August have each agreed to vote (or cause to be voted) all Prentiss common shares that such Prentiss common shareholder beneficially owns against:
| any Takeover Proposal or any action which is a component of any Takeover Proposal; |
| any merger agreement or merger (other than the merger agreement with Brandywine or the Mergers), reorganization, recapitalization, dissolution, liquidation or winding up of or by Prentiss; |
| any amendment of the Prentiss organizational documents, which amendment would result in a breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of Prentiss under the merger agreement or would in any manner prevent or materially impede, interfere with or delay the merger
agreement, the REIT Merger or any of the other transactions contemplated thereby; or |
| any other matter that is inconsistent with the prompt consummation of the REIT Merger, the Partnership Merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. |
Each of Messrs. Prentiss and August granted and appointed Gerard H. Sweeney and Walter DAlessio as each holders sole and exclusive attorneys and proxies, with full power of substitution and re-substitution to vote the Prentiss common shares beneficially owned by Messrs. Prentiss and August at every respective annual, special or adjourned meeting of the Prentiss common shareholders and in every written consent in lieu of such meeting, as to the matters described in the immediately preceding two paragraphs.
Each of Messrs. Prentiss and August has agreed that, other than by operation of law as part of the REIT Merger or the Partnership Merger or in any offer to exchange Prentiss common units, such holder shall not cause or permit any Transfer (as defined below) of any of Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership to be effected without Brandywines prior written consent to such Transfer and unless each person to which any of such Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership, or any interest in any of such Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating
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Partnership, is or may be Transferred shall have: (a) executed a counterpart of the voting agreement and (b) agreed in writing to hold such Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership (or interest in such Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership) subject to all of the terms and provisions of the voting agreement, except that the consent of Brandywine shall not be required for a Transfer to an immediate family member (or trust for the benefit of an immediate family member). A person shall be deemed to have effected a Transfer of a security for purposes of the voting agreements if such person directly or indirectly: (i) sells, pledges, encumbers, grants an option with respect to, transfers or disposes of such security or any interest in such security; or (ii) enters into an agreement or commitment providing for the sale of, pledge of, encumbrance of, grant of an option with respect to, transfer of or disposition of such security or any interest therein.
Each of Messrs. Prentiss and August has agreed that such holder shall not, and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates or representatives not to, directly or indirectly (i) solicit, initiate, encourage or take any other action to facilitate (including by the furnishing of information) the submission of any inquiry, proposal or offer from any person (other than Brandywine or its affiliates) relating to, or that could reasonably be expected to lead to, any Takeover Proposal, (ii) agree to, approve or recommend any Takeover Proposal or enter into any agreement with respect to any Takeover Proposal or (iii) enter into, continue or otherwise participate in any discussions or negotiations regarding, or furnish to any person any information with respect to, or take any other action to facilitate any inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to lead to, any Takeover Proposal; provided, however, that the foregoing prohibitions shall not restrict any holder that is a member of the Prentiss board of trustees or an officer of Prentiss from taking any actions in such capacity to the extent permitted by the merger agreement. Each such holder also agreed to notify Brandywine promptly (but in any event within 24 hours) after receipt or occurrence of (i) any Takeover Proposal, (ii) any request for information with respect to any Takeover Proposal, (iii) any inquiry, proposal, discussions or negotiation with respect to any Takeover Proposal and (iv) the material terms and conditions of any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry, proposal, discussion or negotiation and the identity of the Person making any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry or proposal or with whom discussions or negotiations are taking place.
The voting agreements also contain provisions relating to, among other things, representations and warranties by each unitholder a party thereto and specific enforcement of the voting agreements. The voting agreements terminate upon termination of the merger agreement in accordance with its terms.
Michael V. Prentiss Registration Rights Agreement
Brandywine, Brandywine Operating Partnership and Michael V. Prentiss entered into a registration rights agreement, effective at the effective time of the REIT Merger, which provides Mr. Prentiss with certain specified rights with respect to the registration under the Securities Act of the securities acquired by him in connection with the Mergers and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. Under the terms of the registration rights agreement:
At any time after the closing date of the REIT Merger, Mr. Prentiss may require Brandywine to file a registration statement on Form S-1 or Form S-3 (including a shelf registration statement under Rule 415), and use its reasonable best efforts to cause to become effective as soon thereafter as practicable, with respect to the registrable securities held by Mr. Prentiss or a permitted assignee.
Brandywine also has agreed to use good faith commercially reasonable efforts to file, on or within thirty days following the closing date of the REIT Merger, a shelf registration statement pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act to enable the resale of the registrable securities by Mr. Prentiss or a permitted assignee from time to time on a delayed or continuous basis.
The shelf registration statement shall be filed on Form S-3 and, if Brandywine is eligible, the shelf registration statement shall utilize the newly adopted automatic shelf registration process. Brandywine has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to maintain its status as a well known seasoned issuer as defined in the recent release describing the newly adopted automatic shelf registration process. If Brandywine is not a well known seasoned issuer or is otherwise ineligible to utilize the automatic shelf registration process, then Parent shall use its reasonable best efforts to have the Shelf Registration Statement declared effective
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under the Securities Act as expeditiously as practicable. Brandywine will use its reasonable best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the Shelf Registration Statement, including by filing any necessary post-effective amendments and prospectus supplements, or, alternatively, by filing new registration statements relating to the registrable Prentiss common shares as required by Rule 415 under the Securities Act to permit the disposition of all registrable Prentiss common shares pursuant hereto until the earliest date on which (i) all registrable Prentiss common shares registered pursuant to the shelf registration statement or any successors thereto have been sold or (ii) all registrable Prentiss common shares may be sold pursuant to Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act (Effectiveness Period). If Brandywine registers all of the registrable Prentiss common shares on a shelf registration statement and maintains the effectiveness of the shelf registration, and otherwise satisfies its obligations under registration rights agreement in all material respects, neither Mr. Prentiss nor any permitted assignee will be permitted to exercise ay demand registration rights provided in the registration rights agreement. All of these registration rights are subject to customary conditions and limitations.
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THE PRUDENTIAL ACQUISITION AND RELATED AGREEMENTS
The merger agreement and related Prudential Acquisition transaction documents (which includes a master agreement by and between Brandywine Operating Partnership and Prudential and a Prudential asset purchase agreement by and among Prentiss, Prentiss Operating Partnership and Prudential which are summarized below) provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of the Prudential Properties. The Prudential Properties contain an aggregate of approximately 4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration, payable in cash and through assumption of debt, of approximately $747.7 million.
Whether Prudential acquires the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger or on the day prior to the closing date depends on whether Brandywine has received a private letter ruling from the IRS, on or before the business day which is ten business days prior to the special meetings, that confirms that the REIT Merger will (i) be treated for Federal income taxes as a taxable sale of assets by Prentiss, immediately followed by a taxable liquidation of Prentiss under Section 331 of the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) that the REIT Merger and the related transactions do not constitute a reorganization as defined in Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.
If the private letter ruling described above is not obtained, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, Prentiss will cause Prentiss Operating Partnership to authorize a distribution payable to holders of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units on such date and the Prentiss board of trustees would, on such date, declare the Special Dividend that would be payable to holders of Prentiss common shares of record on such date and the cash portion of the per share REIT Merger consideration would be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger would be reduced. The amount of the Prentiss Operating Partnership distribution, if authorized, and the Special Divided, if declared, will be funded from net cash proceeds of the Prudential Acquisition.
If the private letter ruling described above is obtained, Prudential will acquire the Prudential Properties on the closing date of the REIT Merger, no Special Dividend will be declare and the cash portion of the per share REIT Merger consideration will not be reduced and the conversion ratio applicable to the Partnership Merger will not be reduced. Under this scenario, prior to the closing date, Prudential will contribute approximately $747.7 million to Brandywine Cognac I, LLC in exchange for an interest in such entity. This cash will be used to fund a portion of the cash consideration payable in the REIT Merger. After the Mergers are consummated, Prudentials interest in Brandywine Cognac I, LLC will be exchanged for the Prudential Properties.
The table below identifies the Prudential Properties.
Washington, D.C.
Prudential Property | Location | Net Rentable Square Feet | |
AMS BUILDING | 12601 Fair Lakes Circle | 263,990 | |
Fairfax, VA | |||
WILLOW OAKS I-II | 8260 & 8280 Willow Oaks Corp Drive | 387,469 | |
Fairfax, VA | |||
WILLOW OAKS III | 270 Willow Oaks Corp Drive | 182,605 | |
Fairfax, VA | |||
Total | 834,064 | ||
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Southern California | ||
Prudential Property | Location | Net Rentable Square Feet |
PLAZA I | Palomar Oaks Way | 43,389 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
PLAZA II | Palomar Oaks Way | 45,645 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
LA INDUSTRIAL | Torrance, CA | 1,252,708 |
DEL MAR GATEWAY | 11988 El Camino Real | 163,969 |
San Diego, CA | ||
EXECUTIVE CENTER DEL MAR | El Camino Real | 113,102 |
San Diego, CA | ||
HIGH BLUFF RIDGE AT DEL MAR | High Bluff Drive | 157,859 |
Del Mar, CA | ||
CARLSBAD PACIFICA | 5050 Avinida Encinas | 49,080 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
CARLSBAD I-III | 701, 703 & 705 Palomar Airport Road | 129,997 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
CAMPUS OFFICE | La Place Court | 45,173 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
CAMPUS INDUSTRIAL | La Place Court | 112,713 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
DEL CAMPO | 16868 Via del Campo | 86,952 |
Court Rancho Bernardo, CA | ||
PACIFIC CORPORATE CENTER | 5993 Avenida Encinas | 68,177 |
Carlsbad, CA | ||
Total | 2,268,764 | |
Northern California | |||
Prudential Property | Location | Net Rentable Square Feet | |
LAKE MERRIT TOWER | Lake Merritt Tower I | 204,277 | |
Oakland, CA | |||
5500 GREAT AMERICA PARKWAY | 5500 Great America Parkway | 219,721 | |
Santa Clara, CA | |||
5480 GREAT AMERICA PARKWAY | 5480 Great America Parkway | 87,329 | |
Santa Clara, CA | |||
Total | 511,327 | ||
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Denver | ||
Prudential Property | Location | Net Rentable Square Feet |
HIGHLAND COURT | 9000 East Nichols | 92,866 |
Engelwood, CO | ||
PACIFICARE | 6455 South Yosemite St. | 198,365 |
Engelwood, CO | ||
CARRARA PL | 6200 South Syracuse Way | 234,222 |
Engelwood, CO | ||
ORCHARD I & II | Greenwood Plaza Blvd | 105,779 |
Engelwood, CO | ||
PANORAMA | 9200 East Mineral Avenue | 79,175 |
Engelwood, CO | ||
Total | 710,407 | |
Land | ||
Prudential Property | Location | Buildable Square Feet |
GATEWAY AT TORREY HILLS | Located in Del Mar Heights | 200,000 |
San Diego, CA | ||
GREAT AMERICAN PARKWAY | Adjacent to 5500 Great America Parkway | 230,000 |
Santa Clara, CA | ||
Total | 430,000 | |
Total Square Feet | |
Total | 4,754,562 |
Neither Brandywine or Prentiss is affiliated with Prudential and the terms of the respective agreements with Prudential were determined by arms-length negotiation. | ||
The Master Agreement and the Prudential Purchase Agreement | ||
The following is a summary description of the material provisions of the master agreement and the Prudential purchase agreement. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the master agreement and the Prudential purchase agreement which are attached as Annex B and Annex C, respectively, to this joint proxy statement/prospectus which are incorporated by reference herein. | ||
Concurrently with the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, Brandywine entered into the master agreement with Prudential and Prentiss entered into the Prudential purchase agreement with Prudential. The master agreement provides for the acquisition by Prudential of the Prudential Properties if Brandywine receives the private letter ruling, and the Prudential purchase agreement provides for the acquisition by Prudential of the Prudential Properties if Brandywine does not receive the private letter ruling. Prudential will pay the same purchase price, and will acquire the same assets, whether Prudentials acquisition occurs pursuant to the master agreement or the Prudential purchase agreement. | ||
The master agreement also provides for: | ||
• | Prudentials payment of state and local transfer taxes associated with the transfer of the Prudential Properties up to the amount that Prudential would have paid if it acquired the Prudential Properties from Prentiss pursuant to the Prudential purchase agreement; | |
• | Prudentials engagement of Brandywine to lease and manage all of the Prudential Properties (other than Denver) after the Mergers; |
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• | Prudentials payment to Brandywine of $5 million on account of transaction costs of the Mergers; | |
• | Prudentials approval rights over waivers under the merger agreement pending consummation of the closings of the Mergers; | |
• | supplemental title, survey and other property-level due diligence on the Prentiss portfolio and the sharing by Brandywine and Prudential of eligible remediation costs relating to matters identified through this diligence; and | |
• | the sharing by Brandywine and Prudential of termination fees and expenses pursuant to the merger agreement. | |
The master agreement also provides Prudential with a limited right to change the composition of the portfolio of Prudential Properties. Generally, Prudentials right to change the composition of the portfolio, either by electing not to purchase a property, or to substitute a property for another Prentiss property, is subject to the occurrence of an uncured adverse change at a property and is limited to properties that have, in aggregate, an agreed upon value of $150 million. | ||
The master agreement also provides for representations and warranties in favor of Prudential regarding the Prudential Properties and closing pro rations. | ||
The Prudential purchase agreement will become effective only if the private letter ruling is not obtained and all conditions to the REIT Merger have been satisfied or waived. If the Prudential purchase agreement becomes effective then Prentiss will transfer the Prudential Properties to Prudential on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, with the rights and obligations otherwise applicable to Prudential in the master agreement continuing to be applicable. |
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MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGERS |
The following is a general discussion of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the REIT Merger and the Partnership Merger. The portion of this discussion pertaining to the REIT Merger is limited to U.S. Shareholders and Non-U.S. Shareholders who hold their Prentiss common shares and who will hold their Brandywine common shares received in the REIT Merger, as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes (in general, as an asset held for investment). The portion of this discussion pertaining to the Partnership Merger is limited to U.S. Unitholders. | ||
For the purpose of this discussion, a U.S. Shareholder is a Prentiss shareholder that participates in the REIT Merger and that is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes; (ii) a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia; (iii) an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (iv) any trust if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or more U.S. fiduciaries have the authority to control all substantial decisions relating to the trust or a trust that has a valid election in effect under application U.S. federal income tax law to be treated as a United States person. A Non-U.S. Shareholder is a Prentiss shareholder that participates in the REIT Merger other than a U.S. Shareholder. A U.S. Unitholder is a holder of common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership that participates in the Partnership Merger and that is described in one of the categories of persons set forth above in clauses (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) of the definition of U.S. Shareholder. | ||
This discussion considers neither the specific facts and circumstances that may be relevant to a particular shareholder or unitholder nor any U.S. state and local or non-U.S. tax consequences of the REIT Merger or the Partnership Merger. Moreover, except as provided herein, this discussion does not address special situations, such as the following: | ||
• | tax consequences to shareholders or unitholders who may be subject to special tax treatment, such as tax-exempt entities, dealers in securities or currencies, banks, other financial institutions or financial services entities, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, certain expatriates or former long-term residents of the United States or corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax; | |
• | tax consequences to persons holding Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership as part of a hedging, integrated, constructive sale or conversion transaction or a straddle or other risk reduction transaction; and | |
• | tax consequences to partnerships or similar pass-through entities or to persons who hold Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership through a partnership or similar pass-through entity. | |
If a partnership or other entity taxable as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such partners are urged to consult their tax advisors. This discussion is based upon current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, existing and proposed regulations thereunder and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all as in effect on the date hereof. All of the foregoing are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis, and any such change could affect the continuing validity of this discussion. |
ALL SHAREHOLDERS AND UNITHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE REIT MERGER AND THE PARTNERSHIP MERGER INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX LAWS TO THEIRPARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. | ||
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Tax Consequences of the REIT Merger General
The Private Letter Ruling
Pursuant to the merger agreement, Brandywine agreed to apply for, and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain, a private letter ruling from the IRS that (i) confirms that the REIT Merger in the form of the Forward REIT Merger will not be treated as a tax-free reorganization under Section 368 of the Code and (ii) confirms that the REIT Merger in the form of the Forward REIT Merger will be treated for Federal income tax purposes as (x) a taxable sale of assets by Prentiss, immediately followed by (y) a taxable liquidation of Prentiss under Section 331 of the Code.
Brandywine is requesting the ruling in order to provide certainty that the Forward REIT Merger and sale of Prudential Properties to Prudential does not result in multiple layers of tax on the transaction and does not jeopardize the REIT status of Brandywine. If the private letter ruling is received, then the REIT Merger will take the form of the Forward REIT Merger. If the private letter ruling is not received, then the REIT Merger will take the form of the Reverse REIT Merger, and Prentiss will declare the Special Dividend to Prentiss common shareholders on the day prior to the Reverse REIT Merger.
Whether the REIT Merger takes the form of the Forward REIT Merger or the Reverse REIT Merger, the REIT Merger will be a fully taxable transaction. The tax consequences of each alternative are set forth below.
The Forward REIT Merger
The Forward REIT Merger will be treated for Federal income tax purposes as (x) a taxable sale of assets by Prentiss in exchange for the Merger Consideration, immediately followed by (y) a taxable liquidation of Prentiss under Section 331 of the Code. Prentiss will recognize gain or loss on the taxable sale of its assets. Prentiss will be deemed to liquidate and to distribute the REIT Merger consideration to Prentiss shareholders in liquidation. The liquidating distribution will satisfy Prentiss requirement to distribute 90% of its REIT taxable income. Brandywine will have a basis in the assets acquired from Prentiss equal to their fair market value and will not recognize gain or loss as a result of the sale of assets to Prudential.
For U.S. Federal income tax purposes, the Forward REIT Merger will be a fully taxable transaction for Prentiss shareholders. U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss will recognize capital gain or loss on the deemed liquidation of Prentiss as described below in Consequences to U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger. Non-U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss will be treated as described below in Consequences to Non-U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger.
The Reverse REIT Merger
For U.S. Federal income tax purposes, the Reverse REIT Merger will be treated as a fully taxable exchange by Prentiss shareholders of Prentiss shares for the REIT Merger consideration. U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss will recognize capital gain or loss on the taxable exchange of their Prentiss shares as described below in Consequences to U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger. Non-U.S. Shareholders will be treated as described below in Consequences to Non-U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger.
In the Reverse REIT Merger, Prentiss will sell the Prudential Properties to Prudential on the day prior to the closing of the Reverse REIT Merger, and Prentiss will declare the Special Dividend to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. The cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend. The Special Dividend will be includible in the U.S. Shareholders taxable income in accordance with the normal rules applicable to dividends received from REITs.
Brandywine will have a basis in the Prentiss shares acquired from Prentiss shareholders equal to their fair market value. The basis of Prentiss in its assets will be the same as the basis prior to the Reverse REIT Merger (i.e., the basis of Prentiss assets will not be stepped up to fair market value). The lack of a basis step up in the Reverse REIT Merger may result in Prentiss recognizing additional taxable gain with respect to a subsequent sale of the Prentiss assets, which would likely increase the amount of taxable distributions paid to Brandywine shareholders. The lack of a basis step up will also reduce the amount of depreciation deductions
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available to Brandywine following the Mergers, which will likely increase the amount of taxable distributions to shareholders.
In the Reverse REIT Merger, Prentiss will remain in existence. In order to maintain the qualification of Prentiss and Brandywine as REITs, the Brandywine Operating Partnership will be required to cause Prentiss to issue additional shares to satisfy the requirement that shares of a REIT be held by 100 or more persons. The Brandywine Operating Partnership will have a period of 30 days following the REIT Merger to cause Prentiss to issue the shares necessary to meet the 100 shareholder requirement.
Consequences to U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger
General
In the REIT Merger, which is a fully taxable event for U.S. federal income tax purposes, U.S. Shareholders who own Prentiss common shares will exchange their shares for cash and Brandywine common shares. As a result, each such shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss in the REIT Merger equal to the difference between the fair market value of the consideration received in the REIT Merger and the tax basis in their surrendered Prentiss shares. In general, capital gains and losses arising from the REIT Merger will be long-term if the Prentiss shares surrendered had been held for more than one year as of the effective time of the REIT Merger. U.S. Shareholders who are individuals will generally be subject to a maximum rate of 15% on long-term capital gain arising in the REIT Merger, unless they are subject to the alternative minimum tax, in which case, they may be taxed at a rate of 25% on some or all of their long-term capital gain. A U.S. Shareholder who has held his or her Prentiss common shares for six months or less at the effective time of the REIT Merger, taking into account the holding period rules of Section 246(c)(3) and (4) of the Internal Revenue Code, and who recognizes a capital loss with respect to those shares will be treated as recognizing a long-term, rather than short-term, capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received from Prentiss with respect to those shares. The deductibility of capital losses, in general, is subject to limitations. In the case of shareholders who hold multiple blocks of Prentiss common shares (i.e., the shares were acquired separately at different times and/or different prices), gain or loss must be calculated and accounted for separately for each block of shares.
Basis and Holding Period in Brandywine Shares Received in the REIT Merger
A Prentiss shareholders tax basis in the Brandywine common shares received in the REIT Merger will be equal, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, to the fair market value of such shares on the effective date of the REIT Merger. The holding period with respect to such shares shall commence on the day after the effective date of the REIT Merger. For a discussion of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of owning and disposing of shares of such Brandywine common shares, please see Material Federal Income Tax Consequences Related to the Ownership and Disposition of Brandywines Common Shares.
Tax Consequences of the Special Dividend
If the private letter ruling is not obtained, the REIT Merger will take the form of the Reverse REIT Merger. In such event, Prentiss will sell the Prudential Properties to Prudential on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, and Prentiss will declare the Special Dividend to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. The cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend. The Special Dividend will be includible in the U.S. Shareholders taxable income in accordance with the normal rules applicable to dividends received from REITs. Prentiss expects that the Special Dividend will be designated in part as a long-term capital gain dividend and in part as a return of capital dividend. The portion of the Special Dividend that is designated as a long-term capital gain dividend will be taxable to the U.S. Shareholder in part at the rate of 15% and in part at a rate of 25%. The portion of the Special Dividend that is treated as a return of capital dividend will not be taxable but will reduce the U.S. Shareholders basis in the Prentiss common shares (and to the extent in excess of such basis will be taxable as capital gain). The amount of the basis reduction will increase the amount of capital gain (or reduce the amount of capital loss) recognized by the U.S. shareholder in the Reverse REIT Merger. See Material Federal Income Tax Consequences Related to the Ownership and Disposition of Brandywines Common SharesTaxation of Taxable U.S. Shareholders.
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A Portion of the Merger Consideration Consists of Common Shares in Brandywine, Which is a REIT
Brandywine, like Prentiss, has elected to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code. As a condition to the consummation of the REIT Merger, Pepper Hamilton LLP will deliver an opinion to Prentiss that Brandywine qualifies as a REIT as of the effective time of the REIT Merger. This opinion, however, will not be binding on the Internal Revenue Service or the courts. This opinion will rely on customary representations. If Brandywine did not qualify as a REIT in any of its prior taxable years, Brandywine would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates and to potentially significant tax liabilities. For a description of the U.S. federal income tax requirements for qualification as a REIT and a summary of certain material consequences of losing REIT status, please see Material Federal Income Tax Consequences Relating to Brandywines Taxation as a REIT.
Consequences to Non-U.S. Shareholders of Prentiss of the REIT Merger
Tax Consequences of the REIT Merger
Non-U.S. Shareholders are generally not subject to U.S. federal income tax on gains from disposition of their Prentiss common shares unless such shares are a U.S. real property interest in the hands of such shareholder under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, as amended, which Brandywine refer to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as FIRPTA. Prentiss common shares do not constitute U.S. real property interests subject to tax under FIRPTA if Prentiss is a domestically-controlled REIT, that is, if at all times during the five-year period preceding the consummation of the REIT Merger less than 50% in value of the shares of Prentiss has been held directly or indirectly by Non-U.S. Shareholders. Prentiss believes, based on the available public information, that it is a domestically-controlled REIT. Since Prentiss common shares are publicly traded, however, no assurance can be given that Prentiss is a domestically-controlled REIT. Even if Prentiss is not a domestically-controlled REIT, since Prentiss common shares are regularly traded on an established securities exchange, Prentiss common shares are not a U.S. real property interest subject to tax under FIRPTA to a Non-U.S. Shareholder, unless such shareholder owns, actually or constructively under the attribution rules provided in the Internal Revenue Code, more than 5% of all of the shares of Prentiss common shares outstanding at any time during the shorter of the five-year period preceding the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the REIT Merger or such Non-U.S. Shareholders holding period. If Brandywine or the exchange agent subsequently determined that Prentiss may, in fact, not be a domestically-controlled REIT, they may withhold 10% of any consideration to be received in the REIT Merger.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, capital gain not subject to FIRPTA will be taxable to a Non-U.S. Shareholder if, among other conditions, the Non-U.S. Shareholder is a nonresident alien individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year or is a former citizen or long-term resident of the United States subject to special rules that apply to expatriates. Gain from selling the shares may also be taxable to foreign corporations if such gain is effectively connected with their U.S. trade or business. The branch profits tax may also apply to such a foreign corporations effectively connected income under certain circumstances.
Tax Consequences of the Special Dividend
If the private letter ruling is not obtained, the REIT Merger will take the form of the Reverse REIT Merger. In such event, Prentiss will sell the Prudential Properties to Prudential on the day prior to the closing of the REIT Merger, and Prentiss will declare the Special Dividend to holders of record of Prentiss common shares on such date. The cash portion of the REIT Merger consideration will be reduced by the per share amount of the Special Dividend. The Special Dividend will be includible in the Non-U.S. Shareholders taxable income in accordance with the normal rules applicable to dividends received from REITs. Accordingly, the Special Dividend will be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax (subject to reduction under applicable treaty). See Material Federal Income Tax Consequences Related to the Ownership and Disposition of Brandywines Common SharesTaxation of Non-U.S. Shareholders.
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Backup Withholding
Under U.S. federal income tax laws, consideration to be received in the REIT Merger may be subject to a 28% backup withholding tax. Backup withholding generally will not apply to payments made to certain exempt recipients, such as a corporation or financial institution or to a shareholder who certifies such shareholders taxpayer identification number and certain other required information or provides a certificate of foreign status. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. If backup withholding applies, the amount withheld will be allowed as a refund or a credit against such shareholders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service on a timely basis.
Consequences to U.S. Unitholders of the Partnership Merger
General
Generally, gain or loss is not recognized for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the contribution of property to a partnership in exchange for interests in the partnership. It is intended, and this discussion assumes, that the Partnership Merger will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a contribution by the U.S. Unitholders of their common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership to the Brandywine Operating Partnership in exchange for Class A units in the Brandywine Operating Partnership. Accordingly, U.S. Unitholders that receive Class A units in the Brandywine Operating Partnership pursuant to the Partnership Merger should not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the consummation of the Partnership Merger.
If and to the extent a U.S. Unitholder chooses to exchange its common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership for Prentiss common shares (the Prentiss OP Unit Conversion), such U.S. Unitholder will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes equal to the excess of the value of the Prentiss common shares received (increased by such U.S. Unitholders share of liabilities of the Prentiss Operating Partnership, which is discussed below) over its tax basis in the common units exchanged therefor. Such gain or loss generally will constitute long-term capital gain or loss if the holder has held such common units for more than one year, but in certain circumstances (e.g., to the extent of recapture) a portion of any such gain may constitute ordinary income or be taxed at a 25% rate instead of the 15% rate generally applicable to long-term capital gain. Such U.S. Unitholders initial tax basis in the Prentiss common shares received in the Prentiss OP Unit Conversion will be equal to the fair market value of such shares on the effective date of the Prentiss OP Unit Conversion and such U.S. Unitholders holding period in those Prentiss common shares shall commence the day after the Prentiss OP Unit Conversion. U.S. Unitholders who choose to convert their common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership for Prentiss common shares may participate in the REIT Merger like the other Prentiss shareholders, the U.S. federal income tax consequences of which are described above.
Basis in Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units
Each U.S. Unitholder will have an initial basis in the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units it receives in the Partnership Merger equal to its basis in the Prentiss Operating Partnership common units it contributed to the Brandywine Operating Partnership in exchange therefor. Such basis shall be increased by the U.S. Unitholders allocable share of income of, and any additional capital contributions of money made (or deemed made) by the U.S. Unitholder to, the Brandywine Operating Partnership, and decreased by the U.S. Unitholders allocable share of losses of and distributions made (or deemed made) to the U.S.
Unitholder by the Brandywine Operating Partnership. For purposes of determining the amount of any contributions to or distributions from the Brandywine Operating Partnership, an increase in a U.S. Unitholders share of liabilities of the Brandywine Operating Partnership or the amount of any liabilities which are treated as assumed by a U.S. Unitholder will be treated as a contribution by such U.S. Unitholder of money to the Brandywine Operating Partnership and a reduction in a U.S. Unitholders share of liabilities and the amount of direct or indirect liabilities to which property (including the Prentiss Operating Partnership common units) contributed by a U.S. Unitholder is subject will be treated as a distribution of money to such U.S. Unitholder. A U.S. Unitholders share of liabilities is determined based on the nature of the liabilities and, in certain cases, the application of a three-tier allocation scheme set forth in applicable
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Treasury Regulations. Certain potentially adverse tax consequences to a U.S. Unitholder resulting from the application of these rules are described in the next paragraph.
Potential for Taxable Gain Resulting from Contributions of Prentiss Operating Partnership Common Units and the Reduction of a U.S. Unitholders Share of Liabilities
If cash is distributed (including in certain circumstances, distributions of certain marketable securities treated as cash distributions) to a partner in any year, including for this purpose any reduction in that partners share of the liabilities of the partnership, and the distribution exceeds that partners share of the taxable income of the partnership for that year, the excess will reduce the partners tax basis in its partnership interests and any distribution, or reduction in liabilities, in excess of such basis will result in taxable gain. To the extent a U.S. Unitholders net share of liabilities is reduced in connection with its contribution of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units to the Brandywine Operating Partnership or is subsequently reduced, such net reductions in liabilities can, depending on the amount of the U.S. Unitholders other income allocations and remaining tax basis, result in taxable gain to the U.S. Unitholder. Pursuant to a tax protection agreement, Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership will make available to U.S. Unitholders the opportunity to guaranty indebtedness or enter into similar arrangements providing limited protection from the recognition of such taxable gain. Each U.S. Unitholder is urged to consult with its own tax advisors regarding the potential for recognizing taxable gain as a result of decreases in such U.S. Unitholders share of liabilities.
Holding Period in Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units
Each U.S. Unitholder will have an initial holding period in the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units it receives in the Partnership Merger equal to the holding period in the Prentiss Operating Partnership common units it contributed to the Brandywine Operating Partnership in exchange therefor.
Tax Allocations with Respect to Contributed Prentiss Operating Partnership Common Units
Pursuant to Section 704(c) of the Code, income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to appreciated or depreciated property that is contributed to a partnership in exchange for an interest in the partnership must be allocated in a manner such that the contributing partner is charged with, or benefits from, the unrealized gain or unrealized loss inherent in such property at the time of the contribution. Because the U.S. Unitholders will have contributed appreciated property (i.e., their Prentiss Operating Partnership common units) to the Brandywine Operating Partnership, allocations with respect to the contributed Prentiss Operating Partnership common units must be made in a manner consistent with Section 704(c) of the Code.
The special allocation rules under Section 704(c) may cause a U.S. Unitholder to recognize taxable income in excess of the cash distributed to such U.S. Unitholder. Pursuant to a tax protection agreement, Brandywine and the Brandywine Operating Partnership have agreed to take (or refrain from taking) certain designated actions that will ameliorate the potential adverse effects to the U.S. Unitholders of the above described allocations under Section 704(c).
Disposition of Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units
A U.S. Unitholder will recognize gain or loss upon a disposition of its Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units, including a redemption of such interests or exchange of such interests for common shares of Brandywine, equal to the excess of any cash and the value of any Brandywine common shares or other property received (increased by such U.S. Unitholders share of the liabilities of the Brandywine Operating Partnership) over its tax basis in the interests exchanged or otherwise disposed. Such gain or loss generally will constitute long-term capital gain or loss if the holder has held such Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units for more than one year, but in certain circumstances (e.g., to the extent of recapture) a portion of any such gain may constitute ordinary income or be taxed at a 25% rate instead of the 15% rate generally applicable to long-term capital gain. A U.S. Unitholders initial tax basis in any Brandywine common shares received in exchange for Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A units will be equal to the fair market value of such shares on the day received and such U.S. Unitholders holding period in such shares shall commence on the following day.
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Backup Withholding
Under
U.S. federal income tax laws, consideration to be received in the Partnership
Merger and/or the Prentiss OP Unit Conversion may be subject to a backup withholding
tax (currently at a rate of 28%). Backup withholding generally will not apply
to payments made to certain exempt recipients, such as a corporation or financial
institution or to a person who certifies such persons taxpayer identification
number and certain other required information or provides a certificate of foreign
status. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. If backup withholding applies,
the amount withheld will be allowed as a refund or a credit against the U.S.
federal income tax liability of the
party whose consideration was subject to the backup withholding, provided the
required information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service on a timely
basis.
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO
BRANDYWINES TAXATION AS A REIT
The following discussion describes the material U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to the taxation of Brandywine as a REIT.
The information in this summary is based on the Code, current, temporary and proposed Treasury regulations, the legislative history of the Code, current administrative interpretations and practices of the Internal Revenue Service, including its practices and policies as endorsed in private letter rulings, which are not binding on the Internal Revenue Service, and existing court decisions. Future legislation, regulations, administrative interpretations and court decisions could change current law or adversely affect existing interpretations of current law. Any change could apply retroactively. Brandywine has not obtained any rulings from the Internal Revenue Service concerning the tax treatment of the matters discussed in this summary. Therefore, it is possible that the Internal Revenue Service could challenge the statements in this summary, which do not bind the Internal Revenue Service or the courts, and that a court could agree with the Internal Revenue Service.
On October 22, 2004, President Bush signed into law the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (the Act). The Act makes a number of changes to the REIT rules in the Code, generally taking effect in the taxable year beginning January 1, 2005. The following summary includes a discussion of the material changes made by the Act.
ALL SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE CONSEQUENCES OF BRANDYWINES TAXATION AS A REIT AND THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF BRANDYWINES FAILURE TO MEET REIT QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX LAWS.
Taxation of Brandywine as a REIT
Brandywine first elected to be taxed as a REIT for the taxable year ended December 31, 1986, and has operated and expects to continue to operate in such a manner so as to remain qualified as a REIT for Federal income tax purposes. An entity that qualifies for taxation as a REIT and distributes to its shareholders an amount at least equal to 90% of its REIT taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and by excluding any net capital gain) plus 90% of its income from foreclosure property (less the tax imposed on such income) is generally not subject to Federal corporate income taxes on net income that it currently distributes to shareholders. This treatment substantially eliminates the double taxation (at the corporate and shareholder levels) that generally results from investment in a corporation. However, Brandywine will be subject to Federal income tax as follows:
1. Brandywine will be taxed at regular corporate rates on any undistributed REIT taxable income, including undistributed net capital gains.
2. Under certain circumstances, Brandywine may be subject to the alternative minimum tax on its items of tax preference, if any.
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3. If Brandywine has net income from prohibited transactions (which are, in general, certain sales or other dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business) such income will be subject to a 100% tax. See Sale of Partnership Property.
4. If Brandywine should fail to satisfy the 75% gross income test or the 95% gross income test (as discussed below), and nonetheless has maintained its qualification as a REIT because certain other requirements have been met, Brandywine will be subject to a 100% tax on the net income attributable to the greater of the amount by which Brandywine fails the 75% or 95% test, multiplied by a fraction intended to reflect its profitability.
5. If Brandywine should fail to distribute during each calendar year at least the sum of (1) 85% of its REIT ordinary income for such year, (2) 95% of its REIT capital gain net income for such year, and (3) any undistributed taxable income from prior years, Brandywine would be subject to a 4% excise tax on the excess of such required distribution over the amounts actually distributed.
6. If Brandywine has (1) net income from the sale or other disposition of foreclosure property (which is, in general, property acquired by Brandywine by foreclosure or otherwise or default on a loan secured by the property) which is held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business or (2) other nonqualifying income from foreclosure property, Brandywine will be subject to tax on such income at the highest corporate rate.
7. If Brandywine were to acquire any asset from a taxable C corporation in a carry-over basis transaction, Brandywine could be liable for specified tax liability inherited from that C corporation with respect to that corporations built-in gain in its assets. Built-in gain is the amount by which an assets fair market value exceeds its adjusted tax basis. Brandywine would not be subject to tax on the built in gain, however, if Brandywine does not dispose of the acquired property within the 10-year period following acquisition of such property.
Qualification of Brandywine as a REIT
The Code defines a REIT as a corporation, trust or association:
1. that is managed by one or more trustees or directors;
2. the beneficial ownership of which is evidenced by transferable shares or by transferable certificates of beneficial interest;
3. that would be taxable as a domestic corporation but for Sections 856 through 859 of the Code;
4. that is neither a financial institution nor an insurance company subject to certain provisions of the Code;
5. the beneficial ownership of which is held by 100 or more persons;
6. during the last half of each taxable year not more than 50% in value of the outstanding shares of which is owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals (as defined in the Code to include specified entities);
7. that makes an election to be taxable as a REIT, or has made this election for a previous taxable year which has not been revoked or terminated, and satisfies all relevant filing and other administrative requirements established by the Internal Revenue Service that must be met to elect and maintain REIT status;
8. that uses a calendar year for federal income tax purposes and complies with the record keeping requirements of the Code and the Treasury Regulations; and
9. that meets other applicable tests, described below, regarding the nature of its income and assets and the amount of its distributions.
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Conditions (1) through (4) must be satisfied during the entire taxable year, and condition (5) must be satisfied during at least 335 days of a taxable year of 12 months, or during a proportionate part of a taxable year of less than 12 months. Brandywine has previously issued Common Shares in sufficient proportions to allow Brandywine to satisfy requirements (5) and (6) (the 100 Shareholder and five-or-fewer requirements). In addition, its Declaration of Trust provides restrictions regarding the transfer of its shares that are intended to assist Brandywine in continuing to satisfy the requirements described in conditions (5) and (6) above. See Description of Shares of Beneficial InterestRestrictions on Transfer. However, these restrictions may not ensure that Brandywine will, in all cases, be able to satisfy the requirements described in conditions (5) and (6) above. In addition, Brandywine has not obtained a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service as to whether the provisions of its Declaration of Trust concerning restrictions on transfer and conversion of Common Shares to Excess Shares will allow Brandywine to satisfy conditions (5) and (6). If Brandywine fails to satisfy such share ownership requirements, its status as a REIT will terminate. However, for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, the Act provides that if the failure to meet the share ownership requirements is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, Brandywine may avoid termination of its REIT status by paying a penalty of $50,000.
To monitor compliance with condition (6) above, a REIT is required to send annual letters to its shareholders requesting information regarding the actual ownership of its shares. If Brandywine complies with the annual letters requirement and do not know or, exercising reasonable diligence, would not have known of its failure to meet condition (6) above, then Brandywine will be treated as having met condition (6) above.
Qualified REIT Subsidiaries
Brandywine currently has several wholly-owned subsidiaries which are qualified REIT subsidiaries and Brandywine may have additional wholly-owned qualified REIT subsidiaries in the future. The Code provides that a corporation that is a qualified REIT subsidiary shall not be treated as a separate corporation, and all assets, liabilities and items of income, deduction and credit of a qualified REIT subsidiary shall be treated as assets, liabilities and items of income, deduction and credit of the REIT. A qualified REIT subsidiary is a corporation, other than a taxable REIT subsidiary (discussed below), all of the capital stock of which is owned by the REIT and that has not elected to be a Taxable REIT Subsidiary. In applying the requirements described herein, all of its qualified REIT subsidiaries will be ignored, and all assets, liabilities and items of income, deduction and credit of such subsidiaries will be treated as Brandywines assets, liabilities and items of income, deduction and credit. These subsidiaries, therefore, will not be subject to federal corporate income taxation, although they may be subject to state and local taxation.
Taxable REIT Subsidiaries
Brandywine currently has several taxable REIT subsidiaries, and may have additional taxable REIT subsidiaries in the future. A REIT may hold any direct or indirect interest in a corporation that qualifies as a taxable REIT subsidiary as long as the value of the REITs holdings of taxable REIT subsidiary securities do not exceed 20% of the value of the REITs total assets. To qualify as a taxable REIT subsidiary, the subsidiary and the REIT must make a joint election to treat the subsidiary as a taxable REIT subsidiary. A taxable REIT subsidiary also includes any corporation (other than a REIT or a qualified REIT subsidiary) in which a taxable REIT subsidiary directly or indirectly owns more than 35% of the total voting power or value. See Asset Tests below. A taxable REIT subsidiary will pay tax at regular corporate income rates on any taxable income it earns.
A taxable REIT subsidiary can perform tenant services without causing the REIT to receive impermissible tenant services income under the REIT income tests. However, several provisions regarding the arrangements between a REIT and its taxable REIT subsidiaries ensure that a taxable REIT subsidiary will be subject to an appropriate level of federal income taxation. For example, a taxable REIT subsidiary is limited in its ability to deduct interest payments made to a REIT. In addition, a REIT will be obligated to pay a 100% penalty tax on some payments that it receives or on certain expenses deducted by the taxable REIT subsidiary if the economic arrangements between the REIT, the REITs tenants and the taxable REIT subsidiary are not comparable to similar arrangements among unrelated parties.
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Ownership of Partnership Interests by a REIT
A REIT that is a partner in a partnership is deemed to own its proportionate share of the assets of the partnership and is deemed to receive the income of the partnership attributable to such share. In addition, the character of the assets and gross income of the partnership retains the same character in the hands of the REIT. Accordingly, Brandywines proportionate share of the assets, liabilities and items of income of the Brandywine Operating Partnership are treated as assets, liabilities and items of income of Brandywine for purposes of applying the requirements described herein. Brandywine has control over the Brandywine Operating Partnership and most of the partnership and limited liability company subsidiaries of the Brandywine Operating Partnership and intends to operate them in a manner that is consistent with the requirements for qualification of Brandywine as a REIT.
Income Tests
In order to qualify as a REIT, Brandywine must generally satisfy two gross income requirements on an annual basis. First, at least 75% of Brandywines gross income (excluding gross income from prohibited transactions) for each taxable year must be derived directly or indirectly from investments relating to real property or mortgages on real property (including rents from real property and, in certain circumstances, interest) or from certain types of temporary investments. Second, at least 95% of Brandywines gross income (excluding gross income from prohibited transactions) for each taxable year must be derived from the same items which qualify under the 75% gross income test, and from dividends, interest and gain from the sale or disposition of securities.
Rents received by a REIT will qualify as rents from real property in satisfying the gross income requirements described above only if several conditions are met. First, the amount of rent must not be based in whole or in part on the income or profits of any person. However, an amount received or accrued generally will not be excluded from the term rents from real property solely by reason of being based on a fixed percentage or percentages of gross receipts or sales. Second, subject to certain limited exceptions, rents received from a tenant will not qualify as rents from real property in satisfying the gross income tests if the REIT, or a direct or indirect owner of 10% or more of the REIT, directly or constructively, owns 10% or more of such tenant (a Related Party Tenant). Third, if rent attributable to personal property, leased in connection with a lease of real property, is greater than 15% of the total rent received under the lease, then the portion of rent attributable to such personal property will not qualify as rents from real property. Finally, in order for rents received with respect to a property to qualify as rents from real property, the REIT generally must not operate or manage the property or furnish or render services to tenants, except through an independent contractor who is adequately compensated and from whom the REIT derives no income, or through a taxable REIT subsidiary. The independent contractor requirement, however, does not apply to the extent the services provided by the REIT are usually or customarily rendered in connection with the rental of space for occupancy only, and are not otherwise considered rendered to the occupant. In addition, a de minimis rule applies with respect to non-customary services. Specifically, if the value of the non-customary service income with respect to a property (valued at no less than 150% of the direct costs of performing such services) is 1% or less of the total income derived from the property, then all rental income except the non-customary service income will qualify as rents from real property. A taxable REIT subsidiary may provide services (including noncustomary services) to a REITs tenants without tainting any of the rental income received by the REIT, and will be able to manage or operate properties for third parties and generally engage in other activities unrelated to real estate.
Brandywine does not anticipate receiving rent that is based in whole or in part on the income or profits of any person (except by reason of being based on a fixed percentage or percentages of gross receipts or sales consistent with the rules described above). Brandywine also does not anticipate receiving more than a de minimis amount of rents from any related party tenant or rents attributable to personal property leased in connection with real property that will exceed 15% of the total rents received with respect to such real property.
Brandywine provides services to the properties that Brandywine owns through the Brandywine Operating Partnership, and Brandywine believes that all of such services will be considered usually or customarily
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rendered in connection with the rental of space for occupancy only so that the provision of such services will not jeopardize the qualification of rent from the properties as rents from real property. In the case of any services that are not usual and customary under the foregoing rules, Brandywine will employ an independent contractor or a taxable REIT subsidiary to provide such services.
The Brandywine Operating Partnership may receive certain types of income that will not qualify under the 75% or 95% gross income tests. In particular, dividends received from a taxable REIT subsidiary will not qualify under the 75% test. Brandywine believes, however, that the aggregate amount of such items and other non-qualifying income in any taxable year will not cause Brandywine to exceed the limits on non-qualifying income under either the 75% or 95% gross income tests.
If Brandywine fails to satisfy one or both of the 75% of 95% gross income tests for any taxable year, Brandywine may nevertheless qualify as a REIT for such year if it is entitled to relief under certain provisions of the Code. These relief provisions will be generally available if (1) the failure to meet such tests was due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, (2) Brandywine has attached a schedule of the sources of its income to its return, and (3) any incorrect information on the schedule was not due to fraud with intent to evade tax. In addition, for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, the Act provides that Brandywine must also file a disclosure schedule with the IRS after Brandywine determines that Brandywine has not satisfied one of the gross income tests. It is not possible, however, to state whether in all circumstances Brandywine would be entitled to the benefit of these relief provisions. As discussed above in Taxation of Brandywine as a REIT, even if these relief provisions apply, a tax would be imposed based on the excess net income.
Any gain realized by Brandywine on the sale of any property held as inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business, including Brandywines share of this type of gain realized by the Brandywine Operating Partnership, will be treated as income from a prohibited transaction that is subject to a 100% penalty tax. Under existing law, whether property is held as inventory or primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business is a question of fact that depends on all the facts and circumstances of a particular transaction. Brandywine intends to hold properties for investment with a view to long-term appreciation, to engage in the business of acquiring, developing, owning and operating properties, and to make occasional sales of properties as are consistent with its investment objectives. Brandywine cannot provide any assurance, however, that the Internal Revenue Service might not contend that one or more of these sales are subject to the 100% penalty tax.
Asset Tests
At the close of each quarter of each taxable year, Brandywine must satisfy the following tests relating to the nature of its assets:
First, at least 75% of the value of its total assets must be represented by cash or cash items (which generally include receivables), government securities, real estate assets (which generally include interests in real property, interests in mortgages on real property and shares of other REITs), or, in cases where Brandywine receives proceeds from shares of beneficial interest or publicly offered long-term (at least five-year) debt, temporary investments in stock or debt instruments during the one-year period following its receipt of such proceeds.
Second, of the investments not included in the 75% asset class, the value of any one issuers securities Brandywine owns may not exceed 5% of the value of its total assets (5% test); and Brandywine may not own more than 10% of the vote or value of any one issuers outstanding securities (10% test), except for its interests in the Brandywine Operating Partnership, noncorporate subsidiaries, taxable REIT subsidiaries and any qualified REIT subsidiaries, and except (with respect to the 10% value test) certain straight debt securities.
Effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2000, the Act expands the safe harbor under which certain types of securities are disregarded for purposes of the 10% value limitation to include (i) straight debt securities (including straight debt securities that provides for certain contingent payments); (ii) any loan to an individual or an estate; (iii) any rental agreement described in Section 467 of the Code, other
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than with a related person; (iv) any obligation to pay rents from real property; (v) certain securities issued by a State or any political subdivision thereof, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; (vi) any security issued by a REIT; and (vii) any other arrangement that, as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, is excepted from the definition of a security. In addition, for purposes of applying the 10% value limitation, (a) a REITs interest as a partner in a partnership is not considered a security; (b) any debt instrument issued by a partnership is not treated as a security if at least 75% of the partnerships gross income is from sources that would qualify for the 75% REIT gross income test, and (c) any debt instrument issued by a partnership is not treated as a security to the extent of the REITs interest as a partner in the partnership.
Third, not more than 20% of the value of its assets may be represented by securities of one or more taxable REIT subsidiaries.
For purposes of the 75% asset test, the term interest in real property includes an interest in land and improvements thereon, such as buildings or other inherently permanent structures, including items that are structural components of such buildings or structures, a leasehold of real property, and an option to acquire real property, or a leasehold of real property.
For purposes of the asset tests, Brandywine is deemed to own its proportionate share of the assets of the Brandywine Operating Partnership, any qualified REIT subsidiary, and each noncorporate subsidiary, rather than its interests in those entities. At least 75% of the value of its total assets have been and will be represented by real estate assets, cash and cash items, including receivables and government securities. In addition, except for its interests in the Brandywine Operating Partnership, the noncorporate subsidiaries, another REIT, any taxable REIT subsidiary and any qualified REIT subsidiary, Brandywine has not owned, and will not own (1) securities of any one issuer the value of which exceeds 5% of the value of its total assets, or (2) more than 10% of the vote or value of any one issuers outstanding securities. Brandywine has not owned, and will not own, securities of taxable REIT subsidiaries with an aggregate value in excess of 20% of the value of its assets.
As noted above, one of the requirements for qualification as a REIT is that a REIT not own more than 10% of the vote or value of any corporation other than the stock of a qualified REIT subsidiary (of which the REIT is required to own all of such stock), a taxable REIT subsidiary and stock in another REIT. The Brandywine Operating Partnership owns all or substantially all of the voting securities of several entities that have elected to be taxed as corporations and are taxable REIT subsidiaries. Brandywine and each taxable REIT subsidiary have jointly made a taxable REIT subsidiary election and, therefore, ownership of such subsidiaries will not violate the 10% test.
Brandywine owns 100% of the common shares of Atlantic American Properties Trust, a Maryland business trust that has elected to be treated as a real estate investment trust (AAPT). Provided that AAPT continues to qualify as a REIT (including satisfaction of the ownership, income, asset and distribution tests discussed herein) the common shares of AAPT will qualify as real estate assets under the 75% test. However, if AAPT fails to qualify as a REIT in any year, then the common shares of AAPT will not qualify as real estate assets under the 75% test. In addition, because Brandywine owns more than 10% of the common shares of AAPT, Brandywine would not satisfy the 10% test if AAPT were to fail to qualify as a REIT. Accordingly, Brandywines qualification as a REIT depends upon the ability of AAPT to continue to qualify as a REIT.
After initially meeting the asset tests at the close of any quarter, Brandywine will not lose its status as a REIT for failure to satisfy the asset tests at the end of a later quarter solely by reason of changes in asset values. If the failure to satisfy the asset tests results from an acquisition of securities or other property during a quarter, the failure can be cured by disposition of sufficient nonqualifying assets within 30 days after the close of that quarter. Brandywine intends to maintain adequate records of the value of its assets to ensure compliance with the asset tests, and to take such other action within 30 days after the close of any quarter as may be required to cure any noncompliance. However, there can be no assurance that such other action will always be successful. If Brandywine fails to cure any noncompliance with the asset tests within such time period, its status as a REIT would be lost.
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For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, the Act provides relief from certain failures to satisfy the REIT asset tests. If the failure relates to the 5% test or 10% test, and if the failure is de minimis (does not exceed the lesser of $10 million or 1% of its assets as of the end of the quarter), Brandywine may avoid the loss of its REIT status by disposing of sufficient assets to cure the failure within 6 months after the end of the quarter in which the failure was identified. For failures to meet the asset tests that are more than a de minimis amount, Brandywine may avoid the loss of its REIT status if: the failure was due to reasonable cause, Brandywine files a disclosure schedule at the end of the quarter in which the failure was identified, Brandywine disposes of sufficient assets to cure the failure within 6 months after the end of the quarter, and Brandywine pays a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or the highest corporate tax rate multiplied by the net income generated by the non-qualifying assets.
Annual Distribution Requirements
In order to qualify as a REIT, Brandywine is required to distribute dividends (other than capital gain dividends) to its shareholders in an amount at least equal to (1) the sum of (a) 90% of its REIT taxable income (computed without regard to the dividends paid deduction and the REITs net capital gain) and (b) 90% of the net income (after tax), if any, from foreclosure property, minus (2) certain excess non-cash income. In addition, if Brandywine disposes of a built-in gain asset during the 10 year period following its acquisition, Brandywine will be required to distribute at least 90% of the built-in gain (after tax), if any, recognized on the disposition of such asset. Such distributions must be paid in the taxable year to which they relate, or in the following taxable year if declared before Brandywine timely files its tax return for such year and if paid on or before the first regular dividend payment after such declaration. To the extent that Brandywine does not distribute all of its net capital gain or Brandywine distributes at least 95%, but less than 100%, of its REIT taxable income, as adjusted, Brandywine will be subject to tax on the undistributed amount at regular corporate tax rates. Furthermore, if Brandywine should fail to distribute during each calendar year at least the sum of (1) 85% of its REIT ordinary income for such year, (2) 95% of its REIT net capital gain income for such year and (3) any undistributed taxable income from prior periods, Brandywine would be subject to a 4% excise tax on the excess of such required distribution over the amounts actually distributed.
Brandywine intends to make timely distributions sufficient to satisfy the annual distribution requirements. In this regard, the limited partnership agreement of the Brandywine Operating Partnership authorizes Brandywine, as general partner, to operate the partnership in a manner that will enable it to satisfy the REIT requirements and avoid the imposition of any federal income or excise tax liability. It is possible that Brandywine, from time to time, may not have sufficient cash or other liquid assets to meet the 90% distribution requirement due primarily to the expenditure of cash for nondeductible items such as principal amortization or capital expenditures. In order to meet the 90% distribution requirement, Brandywine may borrow or may cause the Brandywine Operating Partnership to arrange for short-term or other borrowing to permit the payment of required distributions or declare a consent dividend, which is a hypothetical distribution to shareholders out of its earnings and profits. The effect of such a consent dividend (which, in conjunction with distributions actually paid, must not be preferential to those shareholders who agree to such treatment) would be that such shareholders would be treated for federal income tax purposes as if they had received such amount in cash, and they then had immediately contributed such amount back to Brandywine as additional paid-in capital. This would result in taxable income to those shareholders without the receipt of any actual cash distribution but would also increase their tax basis in their shares by the amount of the taxable income recognized.
Under certain circumstances, Brandywine may be able to rectify a failure to meet the distribution requirement for a given year by paying deficiency dividends to shareholders in a later year that may be included in Brandywines deduction for distributions paid for the earlier year. Thus, Brandywine may be able to avoid being taxed on amounts distributed as deficiency dividends; however, Brandywine will be required to pay to the Internal Revenue Service interest based upon the amount of any deduction taken for deficiency dividends.
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Failure to Qualify
For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, the Act provides relief for many failures to satisfy the REIT requirements. In addition to the relief provisions for failures to satisfy the income and asset tests (discussed above), the Act provides additional relief for other failures to satisfy REIT requirements. If the failure is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, and Brandywine elects to pay a penalty of $50,000 for each failure, Brandywine can avoid the loss of its REIT status.
If Brandywine fails to qualify for taxation as a REIT in any taxable year and the relief provisions do not apply, it will be subject to tax (including any applicable corporate alternative minimum tax) on its taxable income at regular corporate rates. Distributions to shareholders in any year in which Brandywine fails to qualify will not be deductible to Brandywine. In such event, to the extent of Brandywines current and accumulated earnings and profits, all distributions to shareholders will be taxable to them generally as dividends, and, subject to certain limitations of the Code, corporate distributees may be eligible for the dividends received deduction. Under current law, such dividends should be taxable to individual shareholders at the 15% rate for qualified dividends provided that applicable holding period requirements are met. Unless entitled to relief under specific statutory provisions, Brandywine also will be disqualified from taxation as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which qualification was lost. It is not possible to state whether in all circumstances Brandywine would be entitled to such statutory relief.
Income Taxation of the Brandywine Operating Partnership, Subsidiary Partnerships and Their Partners
The following discussion summarizes certain Federal income tax considerations applicable to Brandywines investment in the Brandywine Operating Partnership and the Brandywine Operating Partnerships subsidiary partnerships and limited liability companies (referred to as the Subsidiary Partnerships).
Classification of the Brandywine Operating Partnership and Subsidiary Partnerships as Partnerships
Brandywine owns all of its Properties or the economic interests therein through the Brandywine Operating Partnership. Brandywine will be entitled to include in its income its distributive share of the income and to deduct its distributive share of the losses of the Brandywine Operating Partnership (including the Brandywine Operating Partnerships share of the income or losses of the Subsidiary Partnerships) only if the Brandywine Operating Partnership and the Subsidiary Partnerships (collectively, the Partnerships) are classified for Federal income tax purposes as partnerships rather than as associations taxable as corporations. For taxable periods prior to January 1, 1997, an organization formed as a partnership was treated as a partnership for Federal income tax purposes rather than as a corporation only if it had no more than two of the four corporate characteristics that the Treasury Regulations used to distinguish a partnership from a corporation for tax purposes. These four characteristics were continuity of life, centralization of management, limited liability and free transferability of interests.
Neither the Brandywine Operating Partnership nor any of the Subsidiary Partnerships requested a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service that it would be treated as a partnership for Federal income tax purposes.
Effective January 1, 1997, Treasury Regulations eliminated the four-factor test described above and, instead, permit partnerships and other non-corporate entities to be taxed as partnerships for federal income tax purposes without regard to the number of corporate characteristics possessed by such entity. Under those Treasury Regulations, both the Brandywine Operating Partnership and each of the Subsidiary Partnerships will be classified as partnerships for federal income tax purposes except for any entity for which an affirmative election is made by the entity to be taxed as a corporation. Under a special transitional rule in the Treasury Regulations, the Internal Revenue Service will not challenge the classification of an existing entity such as the Brandywine Operating Partnership or a Subsidiary Partnership for periods prior to January 1, 1997 if: (1) the entity has a reasonable basis for its classification; (2) the entity and each of its members recognized the federal income tax consequences of any change in classification of the entity made within the 60 months prior to January 1, 1997; and (3) neither the entity nor any of its members had been notified in writing on or before May 8, 1996 that its classification was under examination by the Internal Revenue
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Service. Neither the Brandywine Operating Partnership nor any of the Subsidiary Partnerships changed its classification within the 60 month period preceding May 8, 1996, nor was any one of them notified that its classification as a partnership for federal income tax purposes was under examination by the Internal Revenue Service.
If for any reason the Brandywine Operating Partnership or a Subsidiary Partnership were classified as an association taxable as a corporation rather than as a partnership for Federal income tax purposes, Brandywine would not be able to satisfy the income and asset requirements for REIT status. See Income Tests and Asset Tests. In addition, any change in any such Partnerships status for tax purposes might be treated as a taxable event, in which case Brandywine might incur a tax liability without any related cash distribution. See Annual Distribution Requirements. Further, items of income and deduction of any such Partnership would not pass through to its partner (e.g., Brandywine), and its partners would be treated as shareholders for tax purposes. Any such Partnership would be required to pay income tax at corporate tax rates on its net income and distributions to its partners would constitute dividends that would not be deductible in computing such Partnerships taxable income.
Partnership Allocations
Although a partnership agreement will generally determine the allocation of income and losses among partners, such allocations will be disregarded for tax purposes if they do not comply with the provisions of Section 704(b) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, which require that partnership allocations respect the economic arrangement of the partners.
If an allocation is not recognized for Federal income tax purposes, the item subject to the allocation will be reallocated in accordance with the partners interests in the partnership, which will be determined by taking into account all of the facts and circumstances relating to the economic arrangement of the partners with respect to such item. The Brandywine Operating Partnerships allocations of taxable income and loss are intended to comply with the requirements of Section 704(b) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder.
Tax Allocations With Respect to Contributed Properties
Brandywine believes that the fair market values of the properties contributed directly or indirectly to the Brandywine Operating Partnership in various transactions were different than the tax basis of such Properties. Pursuant to Section 704(c) of the Code, items of income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to appreciated or depreciated property that is contributed to a partnership in exchange for an interest in the partnership must be allocated for Federal income tax purposes in a manner such that the contributor is charged with or benefits from the unrealized gain or unrealized loss associated with the property at the time of the contribution. The amount of such unrealized gain or unrealized loss is generally equal to the difference between the fair market value of the contributed property at the time of contribution and the adjusted tax basis of such property at the time of contribution (the Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss). The partnership agreement of the Brandywine Operating Partnership requires allocations of income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to such contributed property to be made in a manner that is consistent with Section 704(c) of the Code. Thus, if the Brandywine Operating Partnership sells contributed property at a gain or loss, such gain or loss will be allocated to the contributing partners, and away from Brandywine, generally to the extent of the Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss.
The Treasury Department has issued final regulations under Section 704(c) of the Code which give partnerships flexibility in ensuring that a partner contributing property to a partnership receives the tax benefits and burdens of any Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss attributable to the contributed property. These regulations permit partnerships to use any reasonable method of accounting for Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss. These regulations specifically describe three reasonable methods, including (1) the traditional method under current law, (2) the traditional method with the use of curative allocations which would permit distortions caused by Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss to be rectified on an annual basis and (3) the remedial allocation method which is similar to the traditional method with curative allocations. The partnership
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agreement of the Brandywine Operating Partnership permits Brandywine, as general partner, to select one of these methods to account for Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss.
Depreciation
The Brandywine Operating Partnerships assets other than cash consist largely of appreciated property contributed by its partners. Assets contributed to a partnership in a tax-free transaction generally retain the same depreciation method and recovery period as they had in the hands of the partner who contributed them to the partnership. Accordingly, the Brandywine Operating Partnerships depreciation deductions for its real property are based largely on the historic tax depreciation schedules for the properties prior to their contribution to the Brandywine Operating Partnership. The properties are being depreciated over a range of 15 to 40 years using various methods of depreciation which were determined at the time that each item of depreciable property was placed in service. Any depreciable real property purchased by the Partnerships is currently depreciated over 40 years. In certain instances where a partnership interest rather than real property is contributed to the Partnership, the real property may not carry over its recovery period but rather may, similarly, be subject to the lengthier recovery period.
Section 704(c) of the Code requires that depreciation as well as gain and loss be allocated in a manner so as to take into account the variation between the fair market value and tax basis of the property contributed. Thus, because most of the property contributed to the Brandywine Operating Partnership is appreciated, Brandywine will generally receive allocations of tax depreciation in excess of its percentage interest in the Brandywine Operating Partnership. Depreciation with respect to any property purchased by the Brandywine Operating Partnership subsequent to the admission of its partners, however, will be allocated among the partners in accordance with their respective percentage interests in the Brandywine Operating Partnership.
As described previously, Brandywine, as a general partner of the Brandywine Operating Partnership, may select any permissible method to account for Pre-Contribution Gain or Loss. The use of certain of these methods may result in Brandywine being allocated lower depreciation deductions than if a different method were used. The resulting higher taxable income and earnings and profits, as determined for federal income tax purposes, should decrease the portion of distributions which may be treated as a return of capital. See Taxation of Taxable Domestic Shareholders.
Basis in Brandywine Operating Partnership Interest
Our adjusted tax basis in each of the partnerships in which Brandywine has an interest generally (1) will be equal to the amount of cash and the basis of any other property contributed to such partnership by Brandywine, (2) will be increased by (a) its allocable share of such partnerships income and (b) its allocable share of any indebtedness of such partnership, and (3) will be reduced, but not below zero, by its allocable share of (a) such partnerships loss and (b) the amount of cash and the tax basis of any property distributed to Brandywine and by constructive distributions resulting from a reduction in its share of indebtedness of such partnership.
If its allocable share of the loss (or portion thereof) of any partnership in which Brandywine has an interest would reduce the adjusted tax basis of its partnership interest in such partnership below zero, the recognition of such loss will be deferred until such time as the recognition of such loss (or portion thereof) would not reduce its adjusted tax basis below zero. To the extent that distributions to Brandywine from a partnership, or any decrease in its share of the nonrecourse indebtedness of a partnership (each such decrease being considered a constructive cash distribution to the partners), would reduce its adjusted tax basis below zero, such distributions (including such constructive distributions) would constitute taxable income to Brandywine. Such distributions and constructive distributions normally would be characterized as long-term capital gain if its interest in such partnership has been held for longer than the long-term capital gain holding period (currently 12 months).
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Sale of Partnership Property | ||
Generally, any gain realized by a partnership on the sale of property held by the partnership for more than 12 months will be long-term capital gain, except for any portion of such gain that is treated as depreciation or cost recovery recapture. However, under requirements applicable to REITs under the Code, its share as a partner of any gain realized by the Brandywine Operating Partnership on the sale of any property held as inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business will be treated as income from a prohibited transaction that is subject to a 100% penalty tax. See Taxation of Brandywine as a REIT. Such prohibited transaction income will also have an adverse effect upon its ability to satisfy the income tests for REIT status. See Income Tests. Whether property is held as inventory or primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business is a question of fact that depends on all the facts and circumstances with respect to the particular transaction. A safe harbor to avoid classification as a prohibited transaction exists as to real estate assets held for the production of rental income by a REIT if the following requirements are satisfied: (1) the REIT has held the property for at least four years, (2) aggregate expenditures of the REIT during the four-year period preceding the sale which are includible in basis do not exceed 30% of the net selling price of the property, (3) (a) during the taxable year the REIT has made no more than seven sales of property or, in the alternative, (b) the aggregate of the adjusted bases of all properties sold during the year does not exceed 10% of the adjusted bases of all of the REITs properties during the year, (4) in the case of property, not acquired through foreclosure or lease termination, the REIT has held the property for not less than four years for the production of rental income, and (5) if the requirement of clause (3) (a) is not satisfied, substantially all of the marketing and development expenditures were made through an independent contractor. Brandywine, as general partner of the Brandywine Operating Partnership, believes that the Brandywine Operating Partnership intends to hold its properties for investment with a view to long-term appreciation, to engage in the business of acquiring, developing, owning, operating and leasing properties and to make such occasional sales of the properties as are consistent with its and the Brandywine Operating Partnerships investment objectives. No assurance can be given, however, that every property sale by the Partnerships will constitute a sale of property held for investment. | ||
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO THE OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF BRANDYWINE COMMON SHARES |
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The following discussion describes the material U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to the ownership and disposition of Brandywine common shares. | ||
For the purpose of the following discussion, a U.S. Shareholder is a Brandywine shareholder that is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes; (ii) a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia; (iii) an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (iv) any trust if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or more U.S. fiduciaries have the authority to control all substantial decisions relating to the trust or a trust that has a valid election in effect under application U.S. federal income tax law to be treated as a United States person. A Non-U.S. Shareholder is a shareholder of Brandywine other than a U.S. Shareholder. | ||
This discussion considers neither the specific facts and circumstances that may be relevant to a particular shareholder or unitholder nor any U.S. state and local or non-U.S. tax consequences of the REIT Merger or the Partnership Merger. Moreover, except as provided herein, this discussion does not address special situations, such as the following: | ||
• | tax consequences to shareholders or unitholders who may be subject to special tax treatment, such as tax-exempt entities, dealers in securities or currencies, banks, other financial institutions or financial services entities, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, | |
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certain expatriates or former long-term residents of the United States or corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax; | ||
• | tax consequences to persons holding Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership as part of a hedging, integrated, constructive sale or conversion transaction or a straddle or other risk reduction transaction; and | |
• | tax consequences to partnerships or similar pass-through entities or to persons who hold Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership through a partnership or similar pass-through entity. | |
If a partnership or other entity taxable as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds Prentiss common shares or common units in the Prentiss Operating Partnership, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such partners are urged to consult their tax advisors. This discussion is based upon current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, existing and proposed regulations thereunder and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all as in effect on the date hereof. All of the foregoing are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis, and any such change could affect the continuing validity of this discussion. | ||
ALL SHAREHOLDERS AND UNITHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE REIT MERGER AND THE PARTNERSHIP MERGER INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX LAWS TO THEIRPARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. | ||
Taxation of Taxable U.S. Shareholders | ||
Taxation of Distributions |
As long as Brandywine qualifies as a REIT, distributions made to Brandywine taxable U.S. Shareholders out of current or accumulated earnings and profits (and not designated as capital gain dividends or qualified dividend income) will be dividends taxable to such U.S. Shareholders as ordinary income and will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporations. Distributions that are designated as long-term capital gain dividends will be taxed as long-term capital gains (to the extent they do not exceed Brandywines actual net capital gain for the taxable year) without regard to the period for which the U.S. Shareholder has held its shares of beneficial interest. However, corporate shareholders may be required to treat up to 20% of certain capital gain dividends as ordinary income. For calendar years 2003 through 2008, distributions that are designated as qualified dividend income will be taxed at the same rate as long-term capital gains. Brandywine may designate a distribution as qualified dividend income to the extent of (1) qualified dividend income Brandywine receives during the current year (for example, dividends received from a taxable REIT subsidiary), and (2) income on which Brandywine has been subject to corporate level tax during the prior year (for example, undistributed REIT taxable income) less the tax paid on that income. Brandywine expects that ordinary dividends paid by Brandywine generally will not be eligible for treatment as qualified dividend income to any significant extent. Distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits will not be taxable to a U.S. Shareholder to the extent that they do not exceed the adjusted basis of the shareholders shares, but rather will reduce the adjusted basis of such shares. To the extent that distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits exceed the adjusted basis of a U.S. Shareholders shares, such distributions will be included in income as long-term capital gain (or short-term capital gain if the shares have been held for 12 months or less) assuming the shares are a capital asset in the hands of the shareholder. In addition, any distribution declared by Brandywine in October, November or December of any year payable to a shareholder of record on a specified date in any such month shall be treated as both paid by Brandywine and received by the shareholder on December 31 of such year, provided that the distribution is actually paid by Brandywine not later than the end of January of the following calendar year. Shareholders may not include in their individual income tax returns any of Brandywines losses. | ||
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Disposition of Shares
In general, a U.S. Shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss on the disposition of common shares equal to the difference between the sales price for such shares and the adjusted tax basis for such shares. Gain or loss recognized upon a sale or exchange of common shares by a U.S. Shareholder who has held such shares for more than one year will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss, respectively, and otherwise will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss. However, any loss upon a sale or exchange of shares by a U.S. Shareholder who has held such shares for six months or less (after applying certain holding period rules) will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent such shareholder has received distributions from Brandywine required to be treated as long-term capital gain. U.S. Shareholders who realize a loss on the sale or exchange of shares may be required to file IRS Form 8886, Reportable Transaction Disclosure Statement, if the loss exceeds certain thresholds (for individual taxpayers, the threshold is $2,000,000 for a loss in a single taxable year). U.S. Shareholders should consult with their tax advisors regarding Form 8886 filing requirements.
Application of Passive Activity Rules
Distributions from Brandywine and gain from the disposition of shares will not be treated as passive activity income and, therefore, U.S. Shareholders will not be able to apply any passive losses against such income. Distributions from Brandywine (to the extent they do not constitute a return of capital or capital gain dividends) and, on an elective basis, capital gain dividends and gain from the disposition of shares will generally be treated as investment income for purposes of the investment income limitation.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
In general, Brandywine will report to its U.S. Shareholders and the Internal Revenue Service the amount of distributions paid (unless the U.S. Shareholder is an exempt recipient such as a corporation) during each calendar year, and the amount of tax withheld, if any. Under the backup withholding rules, a shareholder may be subject to backup withholding at the rate of 28% with respect to distributions paid unless such shareholder (a) is a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories and, when required, demonstrates this fact, or (b) provides a taxpayer identification number, certifies as to no loss of exemption from backup withholding and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. A shareholder that does not provide Brandywine with his correct taxpayer identification number may also be subject to penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Service. Any amount paid as backup withholding may be credited against the shareholders income tax liability. In addition, Brandywine may be required to withhold a portion of capital gain distributions to any shareholders who fail to certify their non-foreign status to Brandywine. See - Taxation of Foreign Shareholders.
Taxation of Tax-Exempt Shareholders
Distributions by Brandywine to a shareholder that is a tax-exempt entity should not constitute unrelated business taxable income (UBTI), as defined in Section 512(a) of the Code provided that the tax-exempt entity has not financed the acquisition of its shares with acquisition indebtedness within the meaning of the Code and the shares are not otherwise used in an unrelated trade or business of the tax-exempt entity.
In the case of a qualified trust (generally, a pension or profit-sharing trust) holding shares in a REIT, the beneficiaries of the trust are treated as holding shares in the REIT in proportion to their actuarial interests in the qualified trust, instead of treating the qualified trust as a single individual (the look-through exception). A qualified trust that holds more than 10% of the shares of a REIT is required to treat a percentage of REIT dividends as UBTI if the REIT incurs debt to acquire or improve real property. This rule applies, however, only if (1) the qualification of the REIT depends upon the application of the look through exception (described above) to the restriction on REIT shareholdings by five or fewer individuals, including qualified trusts (please see Description of Shares of Beneficial InterestRestrictions on Transfer) and (2) the REIT is predominantly held by qualified trusts, i.e., if either (a) a single qualified trust holds more than 25% by value of the interests in the REIT or (b) one or more qualified trusts, each owning more than 10% by value, holds in the aggregate more than 50% of the interests in the REIT. The percentage of any dividend paid (or treated as paid) to such a qualified trust that is treated as UBTI is equal to the amount of
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modified gross income (gross income less directly connected expenses) from the unrelated trade or business of the REIT (treating the REIT as if it were a qualified trust), divided by the total modified gross income of the REIT. A de minimis exception applies where the percentage is less than 5%.
Taxation of Non-U.S. Shareholders
The rules governing United States Federal income taxation of nonresident alien individuals, foreign corporations, foreign partnerships and other shareholders that are not U.S. Shareholders (collectively, Non-U.S. Shareholders) are complex and no attempt will be made herein to provide more than a summary of such rules. Prospective Non-U.S. Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisors to determine the impact of Federal, state and local income tax laws with regard to an investment in Brandywine shares, including any reporting requirements.
Distributions made by Brandywine that are not attributable to gain from sales or exchanges by Brandywine of United States real property interests and not designated by Brandywine as capital gains dividends will be treated as dividends of ordinary income to the extent that they are made out of current or accumulated earnings and profits of Brandywine. Such distributions will ordinarily be subject to a withholding tax equal to 30% of the gross amount of the distribution unless an applicable tax treaty reduces or eliminates that tax. However, if income from the investment in Brandywine shares is treated as effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Shareholders conduct of a United States trade or business, the Non-U.S. Shareholder generally will be subject to a tax at graduated rates, in the same manner as U.S. Shareholders are taxed with respect to such distributions (and may also be subject to the 30% branch profits tax in the case of a shareholder that is a foreign corporation). Brandywine expects to withhold United States income tax at the rate of 30% on the gross amount of any such distributions made to a Non-U.S. Shareholder unless (1) a lower treaty rate applies and the Non-U.S. Shareholder files a W-8BEN (or applicable substitute form) or (2) the Non-U.S. Shareholder files an IRS Form W-8ECI with Brandywine claiming that the distribution is effectively connected income. Distributions in excess of Brandywines current and accumulated earnings and profits will not be taxable to a shareholder to the extent that such distributions do not exceed the adjusted basis of the shareholders shares, but rather will reduce the adjusted basis of the shareholder in such shares. To the extent that distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits exceed the adjusted basis of a Non-Shareholders shares, such distributions will give rise to tax liability if the Non-U.S. Shareholder would otherwise be subject to tax on any gain from the sale or disposition of its shares, as described below. If it cannot be determined at the time a distribution is made whether or not such distribution will be in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits, the distributions will be subject to withholding at the same rate as dividends. However, amounts thus withheld are refundable to the shareholder if it is subsequently determined that such distribution was, in fact, in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits.
For any year in which Brandywine qualifies as a REIT, except as provided below for certain distributions after January 1, 2005, distributions that are attributable to gain from sales or exchanges by Brandywine of United States real property interests will be taxed to a Non-U.S. Shareholder under the provisions of the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980 (FIRPTA). Under FIRPTA, distributions attributable to gain from sales of United States real property interests are taxed to a Non-U.S. Shareholder as if such gain were effectively connected with a United States business. Individuals who are Non-U.S. Shareholders will be required to report such gain on a U.S. federal income tax return and such gain will taxed at the normal capital gain rates applicable to U.S. individual shareholders (subject to applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of nonresident alien individuals). Also, distributions subject to FIRPTA may be subject to a 30% branch profits tax in the hands of a foreign corporate shareholder not entitled to treaty relief. Brandywine is required by applicable Treasury Regulations to withhold 35% of any distribution that could be designated by Brandywine as a capital gains dividend. The amount is creditable against the Non-U.S. Shareholders U.S. tax liability.
For distributions after January 1, 2005, the Act provides that distributions attributable to gain from sales or exchanges by Brandywine of United States real property interests are treated as ordinary dividends (not subject to FIRPTA) if the distribution is made to a Non-U.S. Shareholder with respect to any class of stock which is regularly traded on an established securities market located in the United States and if the
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Non-U.S. Shareholder did not own more than 5% of such class of stock at any time during the taxable year. Accordingly, such distributions will generally be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax (subject to reduction under applicable treaty) and a Non-U.S. Shareholder will not be required to report the distribution on a U.S. tax return. In addition, the branch profits tax will not apply to such distributions.
Gain recognized by a Non-U.S. Shareholder upon a sale of shares generally will not be taxed under FIRPTA if Brandywine is a domestically controlled REIT, defined generally as a REIT in which at all times during a specified testing period less than 50% in value of the shares of beneficial interest was held directly or indirectly by foreign persons. It is currently anticipated that Brandywine will be a domestically controlled REIT, and therefore the sale of shares by a Non-U.S. Shareholder will not be subject to taxation under FIRPTA. However, because the shares may be traded, Brandywine cannot be sure that Brandywine will continue to be a domestically controlled REIT. Gain not subject to FIRPTA will be taxable to a Non-U.S. Shareholder if (1) investment in the shares is effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Shareholders United States trade or business, in which case the Non-U.S. Shareholder will be subject to the same treatment as U.S. Shareholders with respect to such gain or (2) the Non-U.S. Shareholder is a nonresident alien individual who was present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year, in which case the nonresident alien individual will be subject to a 30% tax on the individuals capital gains. If the gain on the sale of shares were to be subject to taxation under FIRPTA, the Non-U.S. Shareholder would be subject to the same treatment as U.S. Shareholders with respect to such gain (subject to applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of nonresident alien individuals).
If Brandywine were not a domestically controlled REIT, a sale of common shares by a Non-U.S. Shareholder would not be subject to taxation under FIRPTA as a sale of a U.S. real property interest if (1) Brandywines preferred shares or common shares were regularly traded on an established securities market within the meaning of applicable Treasury regulations and (2) the Non-U.S. Shareholder did not actually, or constructively under specified attribution rules under the Code, own more than 5% of Brandywines preferred shares or common shares at any time during the shorter of the five-year period preceding the disposition or the holders holding period.
Even if Brandywines common shares were not regularly traded on an established securities market, a Non-U.S. Shareholder would not be subject to taxation under FIRPTA as a sale of a U.S. real property interest if such Non-U.S. Shareholders common shares had a fair market value on the date of acquisition that was equal to or less than 5% of Brandywines regularly traded class of shares with the lowest fair market value. For purposes of this test, if a Non-U.S. Shareholder acquired shares of common shares and subsequently acquired additional shares at a later date, then all such shares would be aggregated and valued as of the date of the subsequent acquisition.
Statement of Share Ownership
Brandywine is required to demand annual written statements from the record holders of designated percentages of Brandywines shares disclosing the actual owners of the shares. Brandywine must also maintain, within the Internal Revenue District in which it is required to file its federal income tax return, permanent records showing the information Brandywine has received as to the actual ownership of such shares and a list of those persons failing or refusing to comply with such demand.
Other Tax Consequences
Brandywine, the Brandywine Operating Partnership, the Subsidiary Partnerships and Brandywines shareholders may be subject to state or local taxation in various state or local jurisdictions, including those in which it or they transact business or reside. The state and local tax treatment of Brandywine, the Brandywine Operating Partnership, the Subsidiary Partnerships and Brandywines shareholders may not conform to the Federal income tax consequences discussed above. Consequently, prospective shareholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the effect of state and local tax laws on an investment in Brandywines securities.
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DESCRIPTION OF BRANDYWINE SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST |
The following paragraphs summarize provisions of Brandywines shares of beneficial interest. This summary does not completely describe Brandywines shares of beneficial interest. For a complete description of Brandywines shares of beneficial interest, we refer you to Brandywines Declaration of Trust and Bylaws, each of which is incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information on page 137. | ||
General | ||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust provides that it is authorized to issue up to 220,000,000 shares of beneficial interest (which we refer to as shares) consisting of 200,000,000 common shares, par value $.01 per share, which are referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Brandywines common shares, and 20,000,000 preferred shares, par value $.01 per share, which are referred to in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus as Brandywines preferred shares. Of the preferred shares, 2,000,000 preferred shares, designated as 7.50% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares, are issued and outstanding and are referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as the Series C Preferred Shares, and an additional 2,300,000 preferred shares, designated as 7.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares, are issued and outstanding and are referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as the Series D Preferred Shares. | ||
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, 56,495,209 common shares, 2,000,000 Series C Preferred Shares and 2,300,000 Series D Preferred Shares are issued and outstanding. |
Brandywines Declaration of Trust generally may be amended by its board of trustees, without shareholder approval, to increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares or the number of shares of any class. The authorized common shares and undesignated preferred shares are generally available for future issuance without further action by Brandywines shareholders, unless such action is required by applicable law, the rules of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which Brandywines securities may be listed or traded or pursuant to the preferential rights of the Series C Preferred Shares or the Series D Preferred Shares. Holders of Series C Preferred Shares and Series D Preferred Shares have the right to approve certain additional issuances of preferred shares, such as shares that would rank senior to the Series C Preferred Shares or the Series D Preferred Shares as to distributions or upon liquidation. | ||
Both Maryland statutory law governing real estate investment trusts formed under Maryland law (the Maryland REIT Law) and Brandywines Declaration of Trust provide that none of its shareholders will be personally liable, by reason of status as a shareholder, for any of its obligations. Brandywines Bylaws further provide that it will indemnify any shareholder or former shareholder against any claim or liability to which such shareholder may become subject by reason of being or having been a shareholder, and that Brandywine shall reimburse each shareholder who has been successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of a proceeding to which the shareholder has been made a party by reason of status as such for all reasonable expenses incurred by the shareholder in connection with any such claim or liability. | ||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust provides that, subject to the provisions of any class or series of preferred shares then outstanding and to the mandatory provisions of applicable law, its shareholders are entitled to vote only on the following matters: | ||
• | election or removal of trustees; | |
• | amendment of the Declaration of Trust (other than an amendment to increase or decrease the number of authorized shares or the number of shares of any class); | |
• | a determination by the board of trustees to cause Brandywine to invest in commodities contracts (other than interest rate futures intended to hedge against interest rate risk), engage in securities trading (as compared to investment) activities or hold properties primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business; and | |
• | Brandywines merger with another entity. | |
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Except with respect to these matters, no action taken by Brandywines shareholders at any meeting binds the board of trustees.
Shares
Common Shares of Beneficial Interest
Each outstanding Brandywine common share entitles the holder to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders, including the election of trustees. There is no cumulative voting in the election of trustees. The Brandywine common shareholders vote as single class. In the future, Brandywine may issue a series of preferred shares that votes together with the Brandywine common shares as a single class. Holders of Brandywines outstanding preferred shares have voting rights only under limited circumstances and, in such circumstances, vote in a class separate from the Brandywine common shareholders. See Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest. Subject to (1) the preferential rights of the Series C Preferred Shares and the Series D Preferred Shares and (2) such preferential rights as may be granted by the Brandywine board of trustees in future issuances of additional series of preferred shares, holders of Brandywine common shares are entitled to such distributions as may be authorized from time to time by the Brandywine board of trustees and declared by Brandywine out of funds legally available therefor.
Holders of Brandywine common shares have no conversion, exchange or redemption rights or preemptive rights to subscribe to any Brandywine securities. All outstanding Brandywine common shares are fully paid and nonassessable. In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of Brandywines affairs, subject to (1) the preferential rights of the Brandywine Series C Preferred Shares and the Brandywine Series D Preferred Shares and (2) such preferential rights as may be granted by the board of trustees in future issuances of additional series of preferred shares, holders of Brandywine common shares will be entitled to share ratably in any of Brandywines assets remaining after provision for payment of liabilities to creditors. All Brandywine common shares have equal dividend, distribution, liquidation and other rights.
Brandywines common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BDN. The transfer agent and registrar for the common shares is currently Computershare Limited.
Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest
Brandywines Declaration of Trust authorizes it to issue up to 20,000,000 preferred shares, par value $0.01 per share. The Declaration of Trust generally may be amended by the board of trustees, without shareholder approval, to increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares or the number of shares of any class.
The holders of the Series C Preferred Shares and Series D Preferred Shares do not have voting rights, except (1) with respect to actions which would have a material adverse effect on holders of such shares, or (2) in the event that Brandywine fails to pay quarterly distributions for six or more quarters to the holders of Series C Preferred Shares or Series D Preferred Shares. If the conditions specified in clause (2) exist, then those holders will have the right, voting together as a single class with any other series of Brandywines preferred shares ranking on a parity with the Series C Preferred Shares and Series D Preferred Shares and upon which like voting rights have been conferred, to elect two additional members to Brandywines board of trustees.
If Brandywine issues preferred shares, the shares will be fully paid and non-assessable. Prior to the issuance of a new series of preferred shares, Brandywine will file, with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland, Articles Supplementary that will become part of Brandywines Declaration of Trust and that will set forth the terms of the new series.
Restrictions on Transfer
In order for Brandywine to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code, not more than 50% in value of its outstanding shares may be owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals (defined in the Internal Revenue Code to include certain entities such as qualified pension plans) during the last half of a taxable year and shares must be beneficially owned by 100 or more persons during at least 335 days of a taxable year of twelve months (or during a proportionate part of a shorter taxable year).
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Because Brandywines board of trustees believes it is at present important for it to continue to qualify as a REIT, the Declaration of Trust, subject to certain exceptions, contains provisions that restrict the number of shares that a person may own and that are designed to safeguard Brandywine against an inadvertent loss of REIT status. In order to prevent any shareholder from owning shares in an amount that would cause more than 50% in value of the outstanding shares to be held by five or fewer individuals, the board of trustees, pursuant to authority granted in Brandywines Declaration of Trust, has passed a resolution that, subject to certain exceptions, provides that no person may own, or be deemed to own by virtue of the attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 9.8% in value of the outstanding shares. This limitation is referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as the ownership limit. Brandywines board of trustees, subject to limitations, retains the authority to effect additional increases to, or establish exemptions from, the ownership limit.
In addition, pursuant to Brandywines Declaration of Trust, no purported transfer of shares may be given effect if it would result in ownership of all of the outstanding shares by fewer than 100 persons (determined without any reference to the rules of attribution) or result in Brandywine being closely held within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Internal Revenue Code. These restrictions are referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus as the ownership restrictions. In the event of a purported transfer or other event that would, if effective, result in the ownership of shares in violation of the ownership limit or the ownership restrictions, such transfer would be deemed void and such shares automatically would be exchanged for excess shares authorized by the Declaration of Trust, according to rules set forth in the Declaration of Trust, to the extent necessary to ensure that the purported transfer or other event does not result in the ownership of shares in violation of the ownership limit or the ownership restrictions.
Holders of excess shares are not entitled to voting rights (except to the extent required by law), dividends or distributions. If, after the purported transfer or other event resulting in an exchange of shares for excess shares and prior to the discovery by Brandywine of such exchange, dividends or distributions are paid with respect to shares that were exchanged for excess shares, then such dividends or distributions would be repayable to Brandywine upon demand. While outstanding, excess shares would be held in trust by Brandywine for the benefit of the ultimate transferee of an interest in such trust, as described below. While excess shares are held in trust, an interest in that trust may be transferred by the purported transferee or other purported holder with respect to such excess shares only to a person whose ownership of the shares would not violate the ownership limit or the ownership restrictions, at which time the excess shares would be exchanged automatically for shares of the same type and class as the shares for which the excess shares were originally exchanged. Brandywines Declaration of Trust contains provisions that are designed to ensure that the purported transferee or other purported holder of the excess shares may not receive in return for such a transfer an amount that reflects any appreciation in the shares for which such excess shares were exchanged during the period that such excess shares were outstanding. Any amount received by a purported transferee or other purported holder in excess of the amount permitted to be received would be required to be turned over to Brandywine.
Brandywines Declaration of Trust also provides that excess shares shall be deemed to have been offered for sale to Brandywine, or its designee, which shall have the right to accept such offer for a period of 90 days after the later of: (1) the date of the purported transfer or event which resulted in an exchange of shares for such excess shares; and (2) the date the board of trustees determines that a purported transfer or other event resulting in an exchange of shares for such excess shares has occurred if Brandywine does not receive notice of any such transfer. The price at which Brandywine may purchase such excess shares would be equal to the lesser of: (1) in the case of excess shares resulting from a purported transfer for value, the price per share in the purported transfer that caused the automatic exchange for such excess shares or, in the case of excess shares resulting from some other event, the market price of such shares on the date of the automatic exchange for excess shares; or (2) the market price of such shares on the date that Brandywine accepts the excess shares. Any dividend or distribution paid to a proposed transferee on excess shares prior to the discovery by Brandywine that such shares have been transferred in violation of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust shall be repaid to Brandywine upon its demand. If the foregoing restrictions are determined to be void or invalid by virtue of any legal decision, statute, rule or regulation, then the intended transferee or holder of any excess shares may be deemed, at Brandywines option, to have acted as
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Brandywines agent and on Brandywines behalf in acquiring or holding such excess shares and to hold such excess shares on Brandywines behalf.
Brandywines trustees may waive the ownership restrictions if evidence satisfactory to the trustees and its tax counsel or tax accountants is presented showing that such waiver will not jeopardize Brandywines status as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code. As a condition of such waiver, Brandywines trustees may require that an intended transferee give written notice to Brandywine, furnish such undertakings, agreements and information as may be required by Brandywines trustees and/or an undertaking from the applicant with respect to preserving Brandywines status. Any transfer of shares or any security convertible into shares that would create a direct or indirect ownership of shares in excess of the ownership limit or result in the violation of the ownership restrictions will be void with respect to the intended transferee and will result in excess shares as described above.
Neither the ownership restrictions nor the ownership limit will be removed automatically even if the REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code are changed so as no longer to contain any ownership concentration limitation or if the ownership concentration limitation is increased. Except as described above, any change in the ownership restrictions would require an amendment to Brandywines Declaration of the Trust. Amendments to Brandywines Declaration of Trust generally require the affirmative vote of holders owning not less than a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon. In addition to preserving Brandywines status as a REIT, the ownership restrictions and the ownership limit may have the effect of precluding an acquisition of control of Brandywine without the approval of its board of trustees.
All persons who own, directly or by virtue of the applicable attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 4.0% of the value of any class of outstanding shares, must file an affidavit with Brandywine containing the information specified in the Declaration of Trust by January 31 of each year. In addition, each shareholder shall upon demand be required to disclose to Brandywine in writing such information with respect to the direct, indirect and constructive ownership of shares as Brandywines trustees deem necessary to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to REITs, to comply with the requirements of any taxing authority or governmental agency or to determine any such compliance.
The ownership limit could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a transaction or a change in control of Brandywine that might involve a premium price for the common shares or otherwise be in the best interest of Brandywines shareholders.
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COMPARISON OF THE RIGHTS OF BRANDYWINE COMMON
SHAREHOLDERS AND PRENTISS COMMON SHAREHOLDERS
Upon the completion of the REIT Merger, the shareholders of Prentiss will become shareholders of Brandywine. The rights of Prentiss common shareholders are currently governed by Title 8 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, the Prentiss Declaration of Trust and the Prentiss Bylaws. The rights of Brandywines shareholders are presently governed by Title 8, the Brandywine Declaration of Trust and the Brandywine Bylaws. After the REIT Merger, the rights of former Prentiss common shareholders will be governed by Title 8, the Brandywine Declaration of Trust and the Brandywine Bylaws.
The following discussion summarizes certain significant differences between the rights of Prentiss common shareholders and the rights of Brandywine common shareholders. It is not a complete summary of the provisions affecting, and the differences between, the rights of Prentiss common shareholders and Brandywine common shareholders and is subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to Title 8, the Brandywine Declaration of Trust and Bylaws and the Prentiss Declaration of Trust and Bylaws.
Authorized and Issued Shares of Beneficial Interest
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust provides that it is authorized to issue up to 220,000,000 shares of beneficial interest, consisting of 200,000,000 common shares, par value $.01 per share, and 20,000,000 preferred shares, par value $.01 per share. Of the preferred shares, 2,000,000 preferred shares, designated as 7.50% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares, and an additional 2,300,000 preferred shares, designated as 7.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares, are issued and outstanding. | Prentiss is authorized to issue 120,000,000 shares of beneficial interest, consisting of 100,000,000 Company Common Shares and 20,000,000 preferred shares of beneficial interest, par value of $.01 per share, of which 1,000,000 have been designated Junior Participating Cumulative Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest and 3,773,585 shares have been designated as Series D Cumulative Convertible Redeemable Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest. |
Size of Board of Trustees
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
The Brandywine board of trustees currently consists of eight members. It is anticipated that the board will be increased to 10 members at the effective time of the REIT Merger. Brandywines Declaration of Trust provides that the number of its trustees shall not be less than three nor more than 15, and that the actual number of trustees may be changed from time to time by vote of the board of trustees. | The Prentiss board of trustees currently has seven members. Prentiss Bylaws provide that the number of its trustees shall not be less than three nor more than nine, and that the actual number of trustees may be changed from time to time by vote of at least 80% the board of trustees. |
Classes of Trustees
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywine does not have separate classes for members of its board of trustees. | The Prentiss board of trustees is divided into three classes. Trustees of each class are chosen for three-year terms upon the expiration of their current terms and each year one class of trustees will be elected by the shareholders. |
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Removal of Trustees
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust provides that a trustee may be removed by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than a majority of all of the shares entitled to vote in an election of trustees, provided that a trustee elected solely by a series of preferred shares may be removed solely by vote of a majority of the preferred shares of such series. | The Prentiss Declaration of Trust provides that a trustee may be removed, with or without cause, by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two-thirds of all of the shares entitled to vote in an election of trustees. |
Shareholder Action by Written Consent
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Bylaws provide that any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of shareholders must be effected at an annual or special meeting of shareholders and may not be affected by consent in writing by such shareholders. | The Prentiss Bylaws provide that any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of shareholders may be taken without a meeting if there is filed with the records of shareholders meetings a unanimous written consent that sets forth the action and is signed by each shareholder entitled to vote on the matter and a written waiver of any rights to dissent signed by each shareholder entitled to notice of the meeting but not entitled to vote at that meeting. |
Amendments to Declaration of Trust
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust may be amended only by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than a majority of the shares then outstanding and entitled to vote thereon, except for the provisions of Brandywines Declaration of Trust relating to (1) increases or decreases in the aggregate number of shares of any class, which may generally be made by the board of trustees without shareholder approval subject to approval rights of holders of Series C Preferred Shares and Series D Preferred Shares with respect to issuances of preferred shares that would rank senior as to distributions or in liquidation and (2) the removal of the inclusion by reference in the Brandywine Declaration of Trust of the provisions of the Maryland Business Combination Statute as in effect on June 4, 1986, amendment of which requires the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than 80% of the shares then outstanding and entitled to vote. In addition, if Brandywines board of trustees determines, with the advice of counsel, that any one or more of the provisions of its Declaration of Trust conflict with the Maryland REIT Law, the Code or other applicable Federal or state law(s), the conflicting provisions of Brandywines Declaration of Trust shall be deemed never to have constituted a part of its Declaration of Trust, even without any amendment thereof. | Prentiss reserves the right from time to time to make any amendment to the
Declaration of Trust, including any amendment altering the terms or contract
rights, as expressly set forth in the Declaration of Trust, of any Prentiss shares of
beneficial interest. All rights and powers conferred by the Declaration of Trust
on shareholders, trustees and officers are granted subject to this reservation. The trustees may amend the Declaration of Trust by a two-thirds vote, in the manner provided by Title 8, without any action by the shareholders, to qualify as a REIT under the Code or under Title 8. The Prentiss board of trustees may amend the Declaration of Trust to increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of any class which Prentiss may issue. Other than amendments pursuant to the paragraph above, any amendment to the Declaration of Trust shall be valid only if approved by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, except that any amendment to articles relating the board of trustees, restrictions on transfer and shares-in-trust, amendments by trustees and shareholders and termination of Prentiss shall be valid only if approved by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. |
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Special Meetings of Shareholders
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Bylaws provide that special meetings of shareholders may be called by the board of trustees, the president, or by the chairman of Brandywine and shall be called by the secretary upon written request of shareholders holding in the aggregate not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of Brandywine entitled to vote on the matter to be considered at the special meeting. Any written requests of shareholders for special meetings must state the purpose of the special meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at the special meeting. | The Prentiss Bylaws provide that special meetings of shareholders may be called by the one-third of the board trustees, the president, or by the chairman of Prentiss and shall be called by the secretary upon written request of shareholders holding in the aggregate not less than a majority of the outstanding shares of Prentiss entitled to cast votes at such meeting. Any written requests of shareholders for special meetings must state the purpose of the special meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at the special meeting. |
Business Combinations
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Under Maryland law, as applicable to Maryland
real estate investment trusts, certain business combinations (including certain mergers, consolidations, share exchanges, or, in certain circumstances,
asset transfers or issuances or reclassifications of equity securities) between a Maryland real estate investment trust and an interested shareholder or an affiliate of the interested shareholder are
prohibited for five years after the most recent date on which the interested shareholder becomes an interested shareholder. Thereafter, any such business combination must be recommended by the
trustees of such trust and approved by the affirmative vote of at least: (1) 80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of outstanding voting shares of beneficial interest of the trust, voting together as a
single voting group; and (2) two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of outstanding voting shares of beneficial interest other than shares held by the interested shareholder with whom or with
whose affiliate the business combination is to be effected or by the interested shareholders
affiliates or associates, voting together as a single voting group. |
The Prentiss board of trustees resolved to opt out of the provisions of the Maryland business combination statute in October 1996. As a result, the provisions of the Maryland business combinations statute do not apply to any Prentiss interested shareholder who became an interested shareholder after October 1996. The Prentiss board of trustees also resolved that the board of trustees shall not resolve to opt back in to the Maryland business combination statute unless the opt in resolution is conditioned upon Prentiss shareholder approval by a majority of the votes entitled to be cast. |
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Independent Trustees
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
The Brandywine Declaration of Trust has no requirements relating to the independence of the members of the board of trustees. | The Prentiss Declaration of Trust provides that a majority of the board of trustees must be composed of persons who are not affiliated with any member of the Prentiss family or officers or employees of Prentiss or affiliates of Prentiss or its subsidiaries. |
Termination of Trust
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Subject to the rights of any outstanding Brandywine preferred shares and the provisions of Maryland REIT law, Brandywines Declaration of Trust permits its board of trustees to terminate Brandywines existence and to discontinue its election to be taxed as a REIT. | Subject to the provision of any class or series of shares at the time outstanding, the Prentiss Declaration of Trust provides that the dissolution of Prentiss must be approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two-thirds of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. |
Restrictions on the Ownership, Transfer or Issuance of Shares
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Pursuant to Brandywines Declaration of Trust, the board of trustees has passed a resolution that, subject to certain exceptions, provides that no person may own, or be deemed to own by virtue of the
attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 9.8% in value of the outstanding Brandywine shares (the Brandywine ownership limit). Brandywines board of trustees, subject to
limitations, retains the authority to effect additional increases to, or establish exemptions from, the Brandywine ownership limit. In addition, no purported transfer of shares may be given effect if it would result in ownership of all of the outstanding Brandywine shares by fewer than 100 persons (determined without any reference to the rules of attribution) or result in Brandywine being closely held within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Internal Revenue Code. These restrictions are referred to in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus as the Brandywine ownership restrictions. In the event of a purported transfer or other event that would, if effective, result in the ownership of Brandywine shares in violation of the Brandywine ownership limit or the Brandywine ownership restrictions, such transfer would be deemed void and such shares automatically would be exchanged for excess shares authorized by the Declaration of Trust, to the extent necessary to ensure that the purported transfer or other event does not result in the ownership of Brandywine shares in violation of the Brandywine ownership limit or the Brandywine ownership restrictions. |
The Prentiss Declaration of Trust contains an ownership limitation that provides
that no person may own more than 8.5% of the number of outstanding Prentiss
common shares, other than Michael V. Prentiss, who currently may own up to
15% of the number of outstanding Prentiss common shares, or more than 9.8%
of the number of outstanding Prentiss preferred shares of any series. As long as the Prentiss board of trustees receives evidence that Prentiss REIT status will not be lost, the board of trustees may exempt a recipient of common shares from the Prentiss ownership limitation upon receipt of the following: (1) a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or (2) an opinion of counsel. The Prentiss board of trustees has exempted Security Capital from the Prentiss ownership limitation on the condition that Security Capital not own more than 11% of the number of outstanding Prentiss common shares. The Prentiss board of trustees may monitor, modify, suspend or revoke Security Capitals 11% Prentiss ownership limitation as may be required to maintain Prentiss REIT status. The board of trustees may not grant an exemption from the Prentiss ownership limitation to any proposed transferee if such exemption would result in the termination of Prentiss status as a REIT. |
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Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Holders of excess shares are not entitled to voting rights (except to the extent required by law), dividends or distributions. If, after the purported transfer or other event resulting in an exchange of shares for excess shares and prior to the discovery by Brandywine of such exchange, dividends or distributions are paid with respect to shares that were exchanged for excess shares, then such dividends or distributions would be repayable to Brandywine upon demand. While outstanding, excess shares would be held in trust by Brandywine for the benefit of the ultimate transferee of an interest in such trust, as described below. While excess shares are held in trust, an interest in that trust may be transferred by the purported transferee or other purported holder with respect to such excess shares only to a person whose ownership of the shares would not violate the Brandywine ownership limit or the Brandywine ownership restrictions, at which time the excess shares would be exchanged automatically for shares of the same type and class as the shares for which the excess shares were originally exchanged. Brandywines Declaration of Trust contains provisions that are designed to ensure that the purported transferee or other purported holder of the excess shares may not receive in return for such a transfer an amount that reflects any appreciation in the shares for which such excess shares were exchanged during the period that such excess shares were outstanding. Any amount received by a purported transferee or other purported holder in excess of the amount permitted to be received would be required to be turned over to Brandywine. | Any transfer of Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares that causes
any one of the following conditions to exist will be null and void, and the
intended transferee will acquire no rights in such Prentiss common shares or
Prentiss preferred shares: (1) any person owning, directly or indirectly, Prentiss
common shares or Prentiss preferred shares in excess of the Prentiss ownership
limitation; (2) Prentiss outstanding shares being owned by fewer than 100
persons, as determined without reference to any rules of attribution;
(3) Prentiss being closely held within the meaning of Section 856(h) of
the Internal Revenue Code; or (4) Prentiss owning, directly or constructively,
10% or more of the ownership interests in one of Prentiss tenants or the
operating partnerships real property within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B)
of the Internal Revenue Code. If any purported transfer of Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares results in any of the four above conditions, the Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares in excess of the applicable Prentiss ownership limitation will be designated as shares-in-trust and transferred automatically to a share trust effective on the day before the purported transfer of such Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares. The record holder of the Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares that are designated as shares-in-trust will be required to submit such number of Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares to Prentiss for registration in the name of the share trust. Prentiss will designate the trustee of the share trust, but the trustee of the share trust will not be affiliated with Prentiss. Prentiss will name one or more charitable organizations as the share trusts beneficiary. Shares-in-trust will remain issued and outstanding Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares and will be entitled to the same rights and privileges as all other shares of the same class or series. The share trust will receive all dividends and distributions on the shares-in-trust and will hold such dividends and distributions in trust for the benefit of the share trusts beneficiary. The share trustee will vote all shares-in-trust. The trustee of the share trust may transfer the shares-in-trust, provided the transferee: (1) purchases such shares-in-trust for valuable consideration, and (2) acquires such shares-in-trust without such acquisition resulting in a transfer to another share trust and resulting in the redesignation of such Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares as shares-in-trust. |
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Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywines Declaration of Trust also provides that excess shares shall be deemed to have been offered for sale to Brandywine, or its designee, which shall have the right to accept such offer for a
period of 90 days after the later of: (1) the date of the purported transfer or event which resulted in an exchange of shares for such excess shares; and (2) the date the Brandywine board of trustees
determines that a purported transfer or other event resulting in an exchange of shares for such excess shares has occurred if Brandywine does not receive notice of any such transfer. Any dividend or
distribution paid to a proposed transferee on excess shares prior to the discovery by Brandywine that such shares have been transferred in violation of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust shall be
repaid to Brandywine upon its demand. If the foregoing restrictions are determined to be void or invalid by virtue of any legal decision, statute, rule or regulation, then the intended transferee or holder of
any excess shares may be deemed, at Brandywines option, to have acted as Brandywines agent and on Brandywines behalf in acquiring or holding such excess shares and to hold such excess shares on
Brandywines behalf. Brandywines trustees may waive the Brandywine ownership restrictions if evidence satisfactory to the trustees and its tax counsel or tax accountants is presented showing that such waiver will not jeopardize Brandywines status as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code. Any transfer of shares or any security convertible into shares that would create a direct or indirect ownership of shares in excess of the Brandywine ownership limit or result in the violation of the Brandywine ownership restrictions will be void with respect to the intended transferee and will result in excess shares as described above. |
The prohibited owner with respect to shares-in-trust: (1) will be required to repay
to the share trust the amount of any dividends or distributions received by the
prohibited owner that are attributable to any shares-in-trust, and (2) will
generally receive from the share trustee the lower of (a) the amount paid by the
prohibited owner for the common shares designated as shares-in-trust, or, in the
case of a gift or devise, the market price, as defined in the Prentiss Declaration
of Trust, per share on the date of such transfer, or (b) the amount received by the
share trustee from the sale of such shares-in-trust. Any amounts received by the
trustee of the share trust in excess of the amounts to be paid to the prohibited
owner will be distributed to the share trusts beneficiary. The shares-in-trust will be deemed to have been offered for sale to Prentiss, or Prentiss designee, at a price per share equal to the lesser of the following: (1) the price per share in the transaction that created such shares-in-trust, or, in the case of a gift or devise, the market price per share on the date of such transfer, or (2) the market price per share on the date that Prentiss, or Prentiss designee, accepts such offer. Any person who acquires or attempts to acquire Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares in violation of the above restrictions, or any person who owned Prentiss common shares or Prentiss preferred shares that were transferred to a share trust, is required to immediately give written notice to Prentiss and to provide such other information to Prentiss as may be requested in order to determine the effect, if any, of such transfer on Prentiss status as a REIT. |
Disclosure by Shareholders
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
The Brandywine Declaration of Trust requires all persons who own, directly or by virtue of the applicable attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 4.0% of the value of any class of outstanding Brandywine shares, must file an affidavit with Brandywine containing the information specified in the Declaration of Trust by January 31 of each year. | The Prentiss Declaration of Trust requires all persons who own, directly or indirectly, more than 5.0%, or such lower percentages as required pursuant to regulations under the Internal Revenue Code, of the outstanding Prentiss common shares and preferred shares, within 30 days after January 1 of each year, to provide a written statement or affidavit to Prentiss containing the information specified in the Prentiss Declaration of Trust. |
Shareholder Rights Plan
Brandywine |
Prentiss | |||
Brandywine does not have a shareholder rights plan. |
Prentiss has a shareholder rights plan. |
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DEADLINE FOR FUTURE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Whether or not the REIT Merger is completed, Brandywine will hold an annual meeting of its shareholders in 2006. The deadline for receipt by Brandywine Secretary of shareholder proposals for inclusion in Brandywine proxy materials for the Brandywine 2006 annual shareholder meeting will be no later than the close of business on December 2, 2005. If a shareholder intends to timely submit a proposal at the Brandywine 2006 annual meeting, which is not required to be included by Brandywine in the proxy statement and form of proxy relating to that meeting, the shareholder must provide Brandywine with notice of the proposal no later than February 15, 2006. If such shareholder fails to do so, or if such shareholder fails to give timely notice of his intention to solicit proxies, the proxy holders will be allowed to use their discretionary voting authority when the proposal is raised at the Brandywine 2006 annual meeting. Shareholder proposals should be addressed to Brad A. Molotsky, Secretary, Brandywine Realty Trust, 401 Plymouth Road, Suite 500, Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462.
Prentiss will hold a 2006 annual meeting of its shareholders only if the REIT Merger is not completed. The deadline for receipt by Prentiss Secretary of shareholder proposals for inclusion in Prentiss proxy materials for the Prentiss 2006 annual shareholder meeting (if it is held) will be no earlier than the close of business on November 5, 2005 and no later than the close of business on December 6, 2005. Trustee nominations and shareholder proposals intended to be submitted for presentation at Prentiss 2006 annual meeting of shareholders but not included in Prentiss proxy statement must be in writing and must be received by Prentiss at its executive offices no earlier than November 5, 2005 and no later than December 6, 2005. Such proposals or nominations must also comply with the requirements of Prentiss bylaws, a copy of which will be provided upon request. Shareholder proposals should be addressed to Gregory S. Imhoff, Secretary, Prentiss Properties Trust, 3840 W. Northwest Hwy., Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75220.
LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the Brandywine common shares to be issued in the REIT Merger will be passed upon for Brandywine by Pepper Hamilton LLP. Pepper Hamilton LLP will also deliver its opinion to Prentiss as to certain federal income tax matters regarding the status of Brandywine as a REIT. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, counsel to Prentiss, will deliver its opinion to Brandywine as to certain federal income tax matters regarding the status of Prentiss as a REIT.
EXPERTS
The financial statements and managements assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting (which is included in Managements Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting) incorporated in this registration statement by reference to Brandywine Realty Trusts Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 have been so incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
The financial statements and managements assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting (which is included in Managements Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting) incorporated in this registration statement by reference to Prentiss Properties Trusts Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 have been so incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, neither the Brandywine nor the Prentiss board of trustees knows of any matters that will be presented for consideration at either special meeting other than those described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. If any other matters properly come before either of the special meetings or any adjournments or postponements of either of the special meetings, and are voted upon, the enclosed proxies will confer discretionary authority on the individuals named as proxies to vote the
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shares represented by those proxies as to any other matters. Those individuals named in the Brandywine proxies intend to vote or not vote consistent with the recommendation of the management of Brandywine. Those individuals named as proxies in the Prentiss proxies intend to vote or not vote consistent with the recommendation of the management of Prentiss.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Brandywine has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement under the Securities Act that registers the Brandywine common shares to be issued under and as contemplated by the merger agreement. That registration statement, including the attached exhibits and schedules, contains additional relevant information about Brandywine and Brandywine common shares. The rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission allow Brandywine to omit some of the information included in the registration statement from this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
In addition, Brandywine and Prentiss file reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. You may read and copy that information at the Securities and Exchange Commissions public reference room at the following location:
Public Reference Room
100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580
Washington, D.C. 20549
1-800-732-0330
You may also obtain copies of this information by mail from the Public Reference Section of the Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. Please call the Securities and Exchange Commission at 1-800-732-0330 for information on the operation of the public reference room.
The Securities and Exchange Commission also maintains an Internet world wide website that contains reports, proxy statements and other information about issuers, including Brandywine and Prentiss, that file electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The address of that site is http://www.sec.gov.
The Securities and Exchange Commission allows Brandywine and Prentiss to incorporate by reference information into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. This means that Brandywine and Prentiss can disclose important information by referring you to another document filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, except for any information that is superseded by information that is included directly in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
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This joint proxy statement/prospectus incorporates by reference the documents listed below that Brandywine and Prentiss have previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (other than those furnished pursuant to Item 2.02 or Item 7.01 on Current Report on Form 8-K). These filings contain important information about Brandywine and Prentiss and their respective financial conditions.
Brandywine Filings (File No. 001-09106) | Period | |||
Annual Report on Form 10-K | Year ended December 31, 2004 | |||
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q | Quarter ended March 31,
2005 Quarter ended June 30, 2005, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto filed on Form 10-Q/A on August 19, 2005 Quarter ended September 30, 2005 |
|||
Current Reports on Form 8-K | Filed on: | |||
November 2,
2005 October 4, 2005 June 21, 2005 May 26, 2005 May 6, 2005 April 25, 2005 February 15, 2005 |
The description of Brandywine shares of beneficial interest set forth in registration statements on Form 8-A filed by Brandywine with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 5, 2004, December 29, 2003 and October 14, 1997, respectively, including any amendment or report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the purpose of updating those descriptions.
Prentiss Filings (File No. 001-14516) | Period | |||
Annual Report on Form 10-K | Year ended December 31, 2004 | |||
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q | Quarter ended March 31,
2005 Quarter ended June 30, 2005 Quarter ended September 30, 2005 |
|||
Current Reports on Form 8-K | Filed on: | |||
November 14,
2005 October 19, 2005 October 4, 2005 October 3, 2005 September 22, 2005 August 31, 2005 as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto filed on Form 8-K/A on August 31, 2005 August 17, 2005 as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto filed on Form 8-K/A on October 24, 2005 August 4, 2005 August 1, 2005 July 20, 2005 June 2, 2005 April 19, 2005, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto filed on Form 8-K/A on April 20, 2005 February 2, 2005 |
The description of Prentiss capital stock set forth in the registration statements on Form 8-A/A and Form 8-A filed by Prentiss with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 6, 2005, February 16, 2005 and October 17, 1996, respectively, including any amendment or report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the purpose of updating those descriptions.
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Brandywine and Prentiss also incorporate by reference additional documents that either company may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 between the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus and the date of the Prentiss and Brandywine special meetings (excluding any information furnished pursuant to any Current Report on Form 8-K). Those documents include periodic reports such as Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, as well as proxy statements.
You may obtain any of the documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus through Brandywine or Prentiss, as the case may be, or from the Securities and Exchange Commissions website at http://www.sec.gov. Documents incorporated by reference are available from Brandywine and Prentiss without charge, excluding any exhibits to those documents unless the exhibit is specifically incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You may also obtain documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus by requesting them in writing or by telephone from the appropriate company as follows:
Brandywine Realty Trust Attention: Investor Relations 401 Plymouth Road Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462 Telephone: (610) 832-4907 |
Prentiss Properties Trust Attention: Investor Relations 3890 W. Northwest Hwy., Suite 400 Dallas, Texas 75220 Telephone: (214) 654-0886 |
If you would like to request documents incorporated by reference, please do so by December 14, 2005, to receive them before the special meeting. Please be sure to include your complete name and address in your request. If you request any documents, we will mail them to you by first class mail, or another equally prompt means, within one business day after we receive your request.
WARNING ABOUT FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
Brandywine and Prentiss have made forward-looking statements in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and in the documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Brandywine and Prentiss, as the case may be, and on the information currently available to them.
When used or referred to in this joint proxy statement/prospectus or the documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus, these forward-looking statements may be preceded by, followed by or otherwise include the words believes, expects, anticipates, intends, plans, estimates, projects or similar expressions, or statements that certain events or conditions will or may occur. Forward-looking statements in this joint proxy statement/prospectus also include:
| statements relating to the cost savings that Brandywine anticipates will result from the Mergers; |
| statement relating to the accretion to funds from operations per share that Brandywine expects from the Mergers; |
| statements regarding other perceived benefits expected to result from the Mergers; |
| statements with respect to various actions to be taken or requirements to be met in connection with completing the Mergers or integrating Brandywine and Prentiss; and |
| statements relating to revenue, income and operations of the combined company after the Mergers are completed. |
These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, including those discussed in the section of this joint proxy statement/prospectus entitled Risk Factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements:
| cost savings expected from the Mergers may not be fully realized; |
139
| revenue of the combined company following the Mergers may be lower than expected; |
| costs or difficulties related to the integration of the businesses of Brandywine and Prentiss following the Mergers may be greater than expected; |
| the combined company may not be able to contribute, or time the contribution of, certain of Prentiss development properties into property funds managed by the combined company on terms favorable to the combined company, or at all; |
| general economic conditions, either internationally or nationally or in the jurisdictions in which Brandywine or Prentiss is doing business, may be less favorable than expected; |
| legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in environmental regulation, may adversely affect the businesses in which Brandywine and Prentiss are engaged; |
| there may be environmental risks and liability under federal, state and foreign environmental laws and regulations; |
| costs to develop existing and future properties may be higher than expected; and |
| changes may occur in the securities or capital markets. |
Except for its ongoing obligations to disclose material information as required by the federal securities laws, neither Brandywine nor Prentiss has any intention or obligation to update these forward-looking statements after it distributes this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
WHAT INFORMATION YOU SHOULD RELY ON
No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representation that differs from, or adds to, the information discussed in this joint proxy statement/prospectus or in the annexes attached hereto which are specifically incorporated by reference. Therefore, if anyone gives you different or additional information, you should not rely on it.
This joint proxy statement/prospectus is dated November 16, 2005. The information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus speaks only as of its date unless the information specifically indicates that another date applies. This joint proxy statement/prospectus does not constitute an offer to exchange or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to exchange or purchase, Brandywine common shares or Prentiss common shares or to ask for proxies, to or from any person to whom it is unlawful to direct these activities.
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BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
INDEX TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
F-4 | |
F-5 | |
F-6 | |
F-7 |
F-1
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On October 3, 2005, Brandywine Realty Trust (Brandywine) and Prentiss Properties Trust (Prentiss) agreed to combine their businesses by merging Prentiss and a subsidiary of Brandywine under the terms of the merger agreement described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and attached as Annex A. We encourage you to read the merger agreement carefully and in its entirety.
Upon completion of the REIT Merger, each Prentiss common share will be converted into the right to receive $21.50 in cash, subject to reduction by the amount of a special pre-closing cash dividend if the special pre-closing cash dividend is paid, and 0.69 of a Brandywine common share. Cash will be paid in lieu of fractional shares. Because the portion of the merger consideration to be received in Brandywine common shares is fixed, the value of the consideration to be received by Prentiss common shareholders in the merger will depend upon the market price of Brandywine common shares at the time of the REIT Merger. The REIT Merger will be accounted for using the purchase method of accounting in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, Business Combinations.
As part of the merger transaction, Brandywine and Prentiss have entered into agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America (Prudential). These agreements provide for the acquisition by Prudential (either on the day prior to, or the day of, the closing of the REIT Merger) of Prentiss properties that contain up to an aggregate of approximately 4.32 million net rentable square feet for total consideration of up to approximately $747.7 million (including assumption of certain related secured debt obligations) (the Prudential Acquisition). Consummation of the Prudential Acquisition is contingent upon the approval of the REIT Merger.
The accompanying unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements have been prepared based on certain pro forma adjustments to the historical consolidated financial statements of Brandywine and Prentiss as of September 30, 2005 and for the nine months then ended and for the year ended December 31, 2004 to give effect for certain material transactions already completed or contemplated by Brandywine and Prentiss separately or as part of the REIT Merger/Prudential Acquisition including the following:
Brandywine
| Impact of material acquisitions completed in 2004 the acquisition of the Rubenstein portfolio in September of 2004 |
| Financing and capital transactions (including equity offerings) completed in connection with financing these acquisitions |
| Redemption of Brandywine preferred securities in 2004 |
Prentiss
| Impact of material acquisitions completed in 2004/2005 |
| Completed dispositions of properties including certain of the properties in Chicago, Illinois; Southfield, Michigan; and Dallas, Texas to which Prentiss had committed to a plan to sell |
| Financing and capital transactions completed in connection with financing these acquisitions or the use of proceeds from sales |
| Certain reclassifications to Prentisss historical financial statement presentations to conform with Brandywines financial statement presentation |
| Redemption of Prentiss preferred securities in 2004 |
REIT Merger/Prudential Acquisition
| Impact of Prudential Acquisition |
F-2
| Effects of REIT Merger including financing transactions, issuance of shares by Brandywine, issuance of Class A units by Brandywine Operating Partnership, assumption of debt and application of purchase accounting. |
The historical consolidated financial statements of Brandywine and Prentiss are contained in each companys respective annual reports on Form 10-K and/or Form 10-K/A, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and/or Form 10-Q/A, current reports on Form 8-K and other information on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated by reference into this document. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by, the notes thereto and the historical consolidated financial statements of both Brandywine and Prentiss, including the respective notes thereto, which are incorporated by reference in this document.
The accompanying unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2005 has been prepared as if the completed or proposed transactions described above occurred as of that date. The accompanying unaudited pro forma consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and for the year ended December 31, 2004 have been prepared as if the completed or proposed transactions described above had occurred as of January 1, 2004. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements do not purport to be indicative of the financial position or results of operations that would actually have been achieved had the completed or proposed transactions described above occurred on the dates indicated or which may be achieved in the future.
In the opinion of Brandywines management, all significant adjustments necessary to reflect the effects of the completed or proposed transactions described above that can be factually supported within the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations covering the preparation of pro forma financial statements have been made. The pro forma adjustments and the purchase price allocation as presented are based on estimates and certain information that is currently available to Brandywines management. Such pro forma adjustments and the purchase price allocation could change as additional information becomes available, as estimates are refined or as additional events occur. Brandywines management does not anticipate that there will be any significant changes in the total purchase price as presented in these unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements do not give effect to (i) any transaction other than those described above, (ii) the results of operations of Brandywine or Prentiss since September 30, 2005, (iii) certain cost savings and one-time charges expected to result from the transactions described above which have not already been completed and whose effects are not reflected in the historical financial statements of Brandywine or Prentiss and (iv) the results of final valuations of the assets and liabilities of Prentiss, including property and intangible assets. We are currently developing plans to integrate the operations of the companies, which may involve various costs and other charges that may be material. We will also revise the allocation of the purchase price when additional information becomes available. Accordingly, the pro forma consolidated financial information does not purport to be indicative of the financial position or results of operations as of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, as of the effective date of the Mergers and the Prudential Acquisition, any period ending at the effective date of the Mergers and the Prudential Acquisition or as of any other future date or period. The foregoing matters could cause both Brandywines pro forma financial position and results of operations, and Brandywines actual future financial position and results of operations, to differ materially from those presented in the following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
F-3
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
As of September 30, 2005
(in thousands)
Prentiss |
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Prentiss | Prudential | Pro Forma | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Brandywine | Prentiss | Reclassifica- | Dispositions | as | Acquisition | Adjustments | Brandywine | |||||||||||||||||
Historical | Historical | tions (A) | (B) | Adjusted | (C) | (C) | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||||
ASSETS |
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Real estate investments: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating properties |
$ | 2,568,070 | $ | 1,961,601 | $ | 205,314 | $ | | $ | 2,166,915 | $ | (525,534 | ) | $ | 481,272 | $ | 4,690,723 | |||||||
Accumulated depreciation |
(373,127 | ) | (211,686 | ) | (71,521 | ) | | (283,207 | ) | 76,748 | 206,459 | (373,127 | ) | |||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating real estate investments, net |
2,194,943 | 1,749,915 | 133,793 | | 1,883,708 | (448,786 | ) | 687,731 | 4,317,596 | |||||||||||||||
Properties and related assets held for sale |
| 321,365 | | (53,425 | ) | 267,940 | | 78,780 | 346,720 | |||||||||||||||
Construction-in-progress |
240,749 | 38,871 | | | 38,871 | (38,871 | ) | | 240,749 | |||||||||||||||
Land held for development |
86,086 | 63,786 | | | 63,786 | (24,916 | ) | 24,062 | 149,018 | |||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total real estate investments, net |
2,521,778 | 2,173,937 | 133,793 | (53,425 | ) | 2,254,305 | (512,573 | ) | 790,573 | 5,054,083 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
23,340 | 8,813 | | | 8,813 | 676,513 | (642,688 | ) | 65,978 | |||||||||||||||
Escrowed cash |
16,174 | 44,949 | | | 44,949 | | | 61,123 | ||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
7,955 | 45,141 | (35,457 | ) | | 9,684 | | | 17,639 | |||||||||||||||
Accrued rent receivable, net |
42,977 | | 35,457 | | 35,457 | (11,462 | ) | (23,995 | ) | 42,977 | ||||||||||||||
Marketable securities |
| 5,208 | | | 5,208 | | | 5,208 | ||||||||||||||||
Investment in real estate ventures |
13,335 | 7,139 | | | 7,139 | | 44,422 | 64,896 | ||||||||||||||||
Deferred costs, net |
34,624 | 253,137 | (190,893 | ) | | 62,244 | (13,830 | ) | (42,647 | ) | 40,391 | |||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net |
81,275 | | 42,011 | | 42,011 | | 281,173 | 404,459 | ||||||||||||||||
Other assets |
52,457 | 7,462 | 15,089 | | 22,551 | | | 75,008 | ||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 2,793,915 | $ | 2,545,786 | $ | | $ | (53,425 | ) | $ | 2,492,361 | $ | 138,648 | $ | 406,838 | $ | 5,831,762 | |||||||
LIABILITIES AND BENEFICIARIES EQUITY |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mortgage notes payable |
$ | 504,669 | $ | 1,356,630 | $ | (358,660 | ) | $ | (204,184 | ) | $ | 793,786 | $ | (78,585 | ) | $ | (96,282 | ) | $ | 1,123,588 | ||||
Unsecured notes |
636,582 | | | | | | | 636,582 | ||||||||||||||||
Unsecured credit facility |
340,000 | | 358,660 | 142,185 | 500,845 | | 678,543 | 1,519,388 | ||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued expenses |
60,294 | 85,487 | (30,199 | ) | | 55,288 | | | 115,582 | |||||||||||||||
Distributions payable |
27,712 | 28,476 | | | 28,476 | | (28,476 | ) | 27,712 | |||||||||||||||
Tenant security deposits and deferred rents |
21,621 | | 16,974 | | 16,974 | | | 38,595 | ||||||||||||||||
Acquired below market leases, net |
36,013 | | 11,439 | | 11,439 | (1,311 | ) | 26,324 | 72,465 | |||||||||||||||
Liabilities related to properties held for sale |
| 14,480 | | (2,615 | ) | 11,865 | | | 11,865 | |||||||||||||||
Other liabilities |
3,825 | 385 | 1,786 | | 2,171 | | | 5,996 | ||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
1,630,716 | 1,485,458 | | (64,614 | ) | 1,420,844 | (79,896 | ) | 580,109 | 3,551,773 | ||||||||||||||
Minority Interest |
38,333 | 87,118 | | | 87,118 | (3,670 | ) | 26,571 | 148,352 | |||||||||||||||
Beneficiaries equity: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred shares |
43 | 74,825 | | | 74,825 | | (74,825 | ) | 43 | |||||||||||||||
Common shares |
562 | 496 | | | 496 | | (155 | ) | 903 | |||||||||||||||
Additional paid in capital |
1,370,197 | 977,664 | | | 977,664 | | 28,766 | 2,376,627 | ||||||||||||||||
Cumulative earnings |
404,656 | | 648,349 | 11,189 | 659,538 | 222,214 | (881,752 | ) | 404,656 | |||||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) |
(2,810 | ) | 7,710 | | | 7,710 | | (7,710 | ) | (2,810 | ) | |||||||||||||
Cumulative distributions |
(647,782 | ) | (87,485 | ) | (648,349 | ) | | (735,834 | ) | | 735,834 | (647,782 | ) | |||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total beneficiaries equity |
1,124,866 | 973,210 | | 11,189 | 984,399 | 222,214 | (199,842 | ) | 2,131,637 | |||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total liabilities and beneficiaries equity |
$ | 2,793,915 | $ | 2,545,786 | $ | | $ | (53,425 | ) | $ | 2,492,361 | $ | 138,648 | $ | 406,838 | $ | 5,831,762 | |||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
F-4
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the year ended December 31, 2004
(in thousands, except per share data)
Brandywine |
Prentiss |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Redemption/ | Prentiss | Prudential | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brandywine | Acquisitions | Brandywine | Prentiss | Reclassifica | Acquisitions | Dispositions | as | Acquisition | Adjustments | Brandywine | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Historical | (D) | as Adjusted | Historical | tions (A) | (E) | (F) | Adjusted | (C) | (C) | Pro Forma | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rents |
$ | 275,631 | $ | 45,864 | $ | 321,495 | $ | 296,132 | $ | (39,210 | ) | $ | 44,002 | $ | | $ | 300,924 | $ | (59,830 | ) | $ | 2,798 | (I) | $ | 565,387 | |||||||||
Tenant Reimbursements |
37,572 | 9,725 | 47,297 | | 32,046 | 3,569 | | 35,615 | (6,956 | ) | | 75,956 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
10,389 | | 10,389 | 13,864 | 6,400 | 12 | | 20,276 | (26 | ) | | 30,639 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
323,592 | 55,589 | 379,181 | 309,996 | (764 | ) | 47,583 | | 356,815 | (66,812 | ) | 2,798 | 671,982 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Property operating expenses |
89,857 | 19,445 | 109,302 | 76,977 | 9,998 | 15,210 | | 102,185 | (16,115 | ) | | 195,372 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate taxes |
31,062 | 7,247 | 38,309 | 27,219 | | 4,379 | | 31,598 | (6,602 | ) | | 63,305 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
79,904 | 30,371 | 110,275 | 75,707 | | 17,067 | | 92,774 | (17,614 | ) | 22,532 | (J) | 207,967 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Administrative expenses |
15,100 | | 15,100 | 21,801 | (9,998 | ) | | | 11,803 | | | 26,903 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
215,923 | 57,063 | 272,986 | 201,704 | | 36,656 | | 238,360 | (40,331 | ) | 22,532 | (K) | 493,547 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
107,669 | (1,474 | ) | 106,195 | 108,292 | (764 | ) | 10,927 | | 118,455 | (26,481 | ) | (19,734 | ) | 178,435 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest Income |
2,469 | | 2,469 | | 764 | | | 764 | (5 | ) | | 3,228 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest Expense |
(55,061 | ) | (15,440 | ) | (70,501 | ) | (63,362 | ) | | (16,422 | ) | 16,881 | (62,903 | ) | 4,788 | (25,131 | )(L) | (153,747 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Loss on investment in securities |
| | | (420 | ) | | | | (420 | ) | | | (420 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from impairment of mortgage loan |
| | | (2,900 | ) | | | | (2,900 | ) | | | (2,900 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Equity in income of real estate ventures |
2,024 | | 2,024 | 2,429 | | 100 | | 2,529 | | | 4,553 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net gain on sale of real estate |
2,975 | | 2,975 | 1,222 | | | | 1,222 | | | 4,197 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before minority interest |
60,076 | (16,914 | ) | 43,162 | 45,261 | | (5,395 | ) | 16,881 | 56,747 | (21,698 | ) | (44,865 | ) | 33,346 | |||||||||||||||||||
Minority Interest attributable to continuing operations |
(2,472 | ) | 520 | (1,952 | ) | (2,002 | ) | | (185 | ) | (716 | ) | (2,903 | ) | 921 | 2,624 | (M) | (1,310 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
57,604 | (16,394 | ) | 41,210 | 43,259 | | (5,580 | ) | 16,165 | 53,844 | (20,777 | ) | (42,241 | ) | 32,036 | |||||||||||||||||||
Income allocated to Preferred Shares |
(9,720 | ) | | (9,720 | ) | (10,052 | ) | | | | (10,052 | ) | | 10,052 | (N) | (9,720 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Preferred Share redemption/ conversion benefit (charge) |
4,500 | (4,500 | ) | | | | | | | | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) allocated to Common Shares |
$ | 52,384 | $ | (20,894 | ) | $ | 31,490 | $ | 33,207 | $ | | $ | (5,580 | ) | $ | 16,165 | $ | 43,792 | $ | (20,777 | ) | $ | (32,189 | ) | $ | 22,316 | ||||||||
Per share data (O): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 1.10 | $ | 0.26 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 1.09 | $ | 0.25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding |
47,782 | (O) | 87,369 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding |
48,019 | (O) | 87,606 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
F-5
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the nine months ended September 30, 2005
(in thousands, except per share data)
Brandywine |
Prentiss |
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Prentiss | Prudential | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brandywine | Prentiss | Reclassifica | Acquisitions | Dispositions | as | Acquisition | Adjustments | Brandywine | |||||||||||||||||||
Historical | Historical | tions (A) | (G) | (H) | Adjusted | (C) | (C) | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||||||
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Revenue: |
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Rents |
$ | 244,232 | $ | 244,605 | $ | (31,045 | ) | $ | 11,903 | $ | | $ | 225,463 | $ | (45,584 | ) | $ | 1,677 | (I) | $ | 425,788 | ||||||
Tenant Reimbursements |
34,922 | | 25,840 | 1,595 | | 27,435 | (4,962 | ) | | 57,395 | |||||||||||||||||
Other |
10,612 | 10,054 | 4,932 | | | 14,986 | (228 | ) | | 25,370 | |||||||||||||||||
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Total revenue |
289,766 | 254,659 | (273 | ) | 13,498 | | 267,884 | (50,774 | ) | 1,677 | 508,553 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Property operating expenses |
84,652 | 66,745 | 8,646 | 3,630 | | 79,021 | (12,816 | ) | | 150,857 | |||||||||||||||||
Real estate taxes |
29,121 | 23,784 | | 1,127 | | 24,911 | (4,165 | ) | | 49,867 | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
84,790 | 64,354 | | 5,012 | | 69,366 | (13,908 | ) | 17,811 | (J) | 158,059 | ||||||||||||||||
Administrative expenses |
13,616 | 20,715 | (8,646 | ) | | | 12,069 | | | 25,685 | |||||||||||||||||
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Total operating expenses |
212,179 | 175,598 | | 9,769 | | 185,367 | (30,889 | ) | 17,811 | (K) | 384,468 | ||||||||||||||||
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Operating income (loss) |
77,587 | 79,061 | (273 | ) | 3,729 | | 82,517 | (19,885 | ) | (16,134 | ) | 124,085 | |||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest Income |
2,174 | | 273 | | | 273 | (40 | ) | | 2,407 | |||||||||||||||||
Interest Expense |
(53,366 | ) | (54,688 | ) | | (4,612 | ) | 11,130 | (48,170 | ) | 3,032 | (18,848 | ) (L) | (117,352 | ) | ||||||||||||
Equity in income of real estate ventures |
2,296 | (148 | ) | | 2,216 | | 2,068 | | | 4,364 | |||||||||||||||||
Net gain on sale of real estate |
4,640 | | | | | | | | 4,640 | ||||||||||||||||||
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Income (loss) before minority interest |
33,331 | 24,225 | | 1,333 | 11,130 | 36,688 | (16,893 | ) | (34,982 | ) | 18,144 | ||||||||||||||||
Minority Interest attributable to continuing operations |
(1,160 | ) | (487 | ) | | 72 | (458 | ) | (873 | ) | 695 | 600 | (M) | (738 | ) | ||||||||||||
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Income (loss) from continuing operations |
32,171 | 23,738 | | 1,405 | 10,672 | 35,815 | (16,198 | ) | (34,382 | ) | 17,406 | ||||||||||||||||
Income allocated to Preferred Shares |
(5,994 | ) | (5,807 | ) | | | | (5,807 | ) | | 5,807 | (N) | (5,994 | ) | |||||||||||||
Preferred Share redemption/conversion benefit |
| | | | | | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
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Income (loss) allocated to Common Shares |
$ | 26,177 | $ | 17,931 | $ | | $ | 1,405 | $ | 10,672 | $ | 30,008 | $ | (16,198 | ) | $ | (28,575 | ) | $ | 11,412 | |||||||
Per share data (O): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted earnings per Common Share from continuing operations |
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding |
55,734 | (O) | 89,816 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding |
55,969 | (O) | 90,050 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.
F-6
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(A) | Represents the reclassification of certain Prentiss balances as described below: |
Balance Sheet:
| Tenant improvements and associated accumulated depreciation balances were classified by Prentiss as a component of Deferred charges and other assets, net. These balances have been reclassified to Operating properties to conform to Brandywines financial
statement presentation. |
| Accrued rents receivable were classified by Prentiss as a component of Accounts Receivable, net. This balance has been reclassified to Accrued rent receivable, net to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Above market leases and other intangible assets were classified by Prentiss as a component of Deferred charges and other assets, net. These balances have been reclassified to Intangible assets, net to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Other assets were classified by Prentiss as a component of Deferred charges and other assets, net. These balances have been reclassified to Other assets to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Unsecured debt obligations were classified by Prentiss as a component of Mortgages and notes payable. These balances have been reclassified to Unsecured credit facility to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Tenant security deposits and deferred rents were classified by Prentiss as a component of Accounts payable and other liabilities. This balance has been reclassified to Tenant security deposits and deferred rents to conform to Brandywines financial statement
presentation. |
| Acquired below market leases, net of accumulated amortization, were classified by Prentiss as a component of Accounts payable and other liabilities. This balance has been reclassified to Acquired below market leases, net to conform to Brandywines financial
statement presentation. |
| A negative cash balance was classified by Prentiss as a component of Accounts payable and other liabilities. This balance has been reclassified to Other liabilities to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Cumulative earnings were classified by Prentiss as a component of Distributions in excess of earnings. This balance has been reclassified to Cumulative earnings to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
Statements of Operations:
| Prentiss includes lease termination fees as a component of Rental income. These amounts have been reclassified to Other revenue to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Tenant reimbursements were included by Prentiss as a component of Rental income. These amounts have been reclassified to Tenant reimbursements to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Interest income was included by Prentiss as a component of Service business and other income. These amounts have been reclassified to Interest income to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
| Administrative expenses related to the management services business were included by Prentiss in Expenses of service business. These amounts have been reclassified to Property operating expenses to conform to Brandywines financial statement presentation. |
F-7
(B) | Dispositions |
Subsequent to September 30, 2005, Prentiss sold six properties (the Dispositions) as detailed below. Prentiss recorded gains from the sale of the Dispositions totaling approximately $23.5 million. The sale proceeds totaling $74.3 million along with additional borrowings of $142.2 million from Prentisss revolving credit facility were used to defease two separate mortgage loans with a combined principal balance of $204.2 million and to fund $12.3 million of debt extinguishment costs.
Number | Net Rentable | Net | ||||||||||||||||||||
Month of | of | Square Feet | Assets | Liabilities | Proceeds | |||||||||||||||||
Dispositions |
Market | Disposition | Buildings | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | |||||||||||||||
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Chicago Industrial Properties |
Chicago, Illinois | Oct-05 | 4 | 682 | $ | 16,696 | $ | 1,471 | $ | 30,000 | ||||||||||||
Lakeview Center |
Dallas, Texas | Oct-05 | 1 | 101 | 8,254 | 326 | 12,800 | |||||||||||||||
One Northwestern |
Southfield, Michigan | Oct-05 | 1 | 242 | 28,475 | 818 | 31,500 | |||||||||||||||
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6 | 1,025 | $ | 53,425 | $ | 2,615 | $ | 74,300 | |||||||||||||||
The pro forma consolidated balance sheet is presented as if each of the Dispositions were sold as of September 30, 2005. The properties related to the Prudential Acquisition have not been reclassified as held for sale because the Prudential Acquisition is contingent upon the approval of the REIT Merger.
(C) | In the merger, each Prentiss common share (including shares held by Prentiss in trust or otherwise designated for participants in and beneficiaries of the Prentiss deferred compensation plan, but excluding any other shares owned by Prentiss, Brandywine or their direct or indirect
wholly owned subsidiaries) shall be converted into the right to receive: |
| $21.50 in cash, subject to reduction by the amount of a Special Dividend if the Special Dividend is declared prior to the merger, as discussed below; and |
| 0.69 of a Brandywine common share. |
No change will be made to the 0.69 exchange ratio for the exchange of Prentiss common shares for Brandywine common shares in the REIT Merger. Because the market value of Brandywine common shares will fluctuate before and after the closing of the REIT Merger, the value of the consideration that holders of Prentiss common shares will receive in the REIT Merger will fluctuate as well.
For purposes of the unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet presentation, the total purchase price is based on the number of outstanding Prentiss common shares, Prentiss Operating Partnership common units, restricted shares and share options outstanding at September 30, 2005, as adjusted below, and an average trading price per Brandywine common share of $29.54. The average trading price is based on the average of the high and low trading prices for each of the two trading days before, the day, and the two trading days after the merger was announced (September 29, September 30, October 3, October 4, and October 5, 2005).
The calculation of the pro forma outstanding Prentiss common shares and Prentiss Operating Partnership units included in the calculation of the merger consideration is as follows:
Shares | Units | ||||||
Issued and outstanding common Prentiss shares and operating partnership units at September 30, 2005 (excluding treasury) |
46,267,384 | 1,797,479 | |||||
Common shares in treasury at September 30, 2005 to be issued as part of Prentisss deferred compensation plan |
61,398 | | |||||
Shares issued subsequent to September 30, 2005 |
69,770 | | |||||
Remaining Series D Convertible Preferred Shares assumed to convert prior to closing of merger |
2,823,585 | | |||||
Units converted to shares by Unitholders subsequent to September 30, 2005 |
2,500 | (2,500 | ) | ||||
Shares expected to be issued prior to the merger relating to Prentisss employee share ownership plan, incentive share grants and Trustee share grants |
168,986 | | |||||
Total shares/units to be outstanding as of merger date expected to participate in merger |
49,393,623 | 1,794,979 | |||||
F-8
Prentiss has outstanding options that had been granted to its employees and trustees. The terms of the REIT Merger provide for a cash settlement or exchange of these options for Brandywine options. It is anticipated that the majority of holders will elect cash settlement and, accordingly, these pro forma financial statements assume the cash settlement is elected for all options and such amounts are financed with additional borrowings. As such neither shares nor related options relating to these grants are reflected in the outstanding basic or diluted shares.
Prentiss currently has outstanding 2,823,585 shares of Series D preferred shares which are convertible into Prentiss common shares at a rate of $26.50 per share. Prentiss may redeem these securities at $26.50 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends anytime after December 29, 2005. Based on the implied transaction value, it is anticipated that these securities would either be converted prior to or on the record date for the shareholder vote. Accordingly, for purposes of these pro forma financial statements, this conversion has been assumed.
Scenario 1-
Prudential Acquisition closes after completion of merger and no Special Dividend/distribution is made
If the Private Letter Ruling (PLR) is obtained, the Prudential Acquisition will close immediately after the merger and no Special Dividend would be declared. Accordingly, the Prentiss shareholders/unitholders would receive their respective transaction consideration as follows:
Cash to be received per share/unit |
||||||||||||||||
Merger | Implied | |||||||||||||||
Special | Cash | Cash | Share | |||||||||||||
Dividend | Consideration | Total | Value | Total | ||||||||||||
Prentiss Shareholders |
$ | | $ | 21.50 | $ | 21.50 | $ | 21.50 | (a) | $ | 43.00 | |||||
Prentiss Unitholders |
$ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 43.00 | (b) | $ | 43.00 |
Shares | Units | |||||||||
Prentiss shares/units to be outstanding |
49,393,623 | 1,794,979 | ||||||||
Exchange ratio |
0.690 | 1.380 | (c) | |||||||
Brandywine shares/units to be issued |
34,081,600 | 2,477,072 | ||||||||
(in thousands) | Total | |||||||||
Value (e) |
$ | 1,006,770 | $ | 73,173 | $ | 1,079,943 | ||||
Cash merger consideration |
1,061,963 | | 1,061,963 | |||||||
Total issued to holders |
$ | 2,068,733 | $ | 73,173 | $ | 2,141,906 | ||||
F-9
Scenario 2-
Prudential Acquisition closes day before merger and Special Dividend/distribution is made
If the PLR is not obtained, the Prudential Acquisition will close the business day prior to the REIT Merger and a Special Dividend/distribution will be declared and the appropriate adjustments made to total transaction consideration to be received by the Prentiss shareholders/unitholders as follows:
Total proceeds from Prudential Acquisition potentially to be distributed |
$ | 676,513 | ||
Ratio to be distributed |
95.0 | % | ||
Proceeds to be distributed |
$ | 642,688 | ||
Total Prentiss Shares expected to participate |
49,393,623 | |||
Total Prentiss Units expected to participate |
1,794,979 | |||
Total securities to participate in special dividend |
51,188,602 | |||
Estimated Special Dividend/distribution per share/unit |
$ | 12.56 | ||
Cash to be received per share/unit |
||||||||||||||||
Merger | Implied | |||||||||||||||
Special | Cash | Cash | Share | |||||||||||||
Dividend | Consideration | Total | Value | Total | ||||||||||||
Prentiss Shareholders |
$ | 12.56 | $ | 8.94 | $ | 21.50 | $ | 21.50 | (a) | $ | 43.00 | |||||
Prentiss Unitholders |
$ | 12.56 | $ | | $ | 12.56 | $ | 30.44 | (b) | $ | 43.00 |
Shares | Units | |||||||||
Prentiss shares/units to be outstanding |
49,393,623 | 1,794,979 | ||||||||
Exchange ratio |
0.690 | 0.977 | (d) | |||||||
Brandywine shares/units to be issued |
34,081,600 | 1,753,808 | ||||||||
(in thousands) | Total | |||||||||
Value (e) |
$ | 1,006,771 | $ | 51,807 | $ | 1,058,578 | ||||
Cash merger consideration |
441,812 | | 441,812 | |||||||
Total issued to holders |
$ | 1,448,583 | $ | 51,807 | $ | 1,500,390 | ||||
(a) | using implied conversion value of $31.1594 per Brandywine share |
(b) | using 0.69 shares per unit plus merger cash consideration to shareholders using an implied conversion value of $31.1594 |
(c) | Represents the exchange ratio for Prentiss units to Brandywine units if no Special Dividend |
(d) | Represents the adjusted conversion amount of (i) 0.69 plus (ii) the quotient obtained from dividing the per share amount of the cash consideration payable to the shareholders by $31.1594 per share |
(e) | Valued at $29.54 per Brandywine share/unit for accounting purposes, representing the average trading price based on average of the high and low trading prices for each of the two trading days before, the day of, and the two trading days after the merger was announced
(October 3, 2005). |
For purposes of the pro forma financial statements, it was considered more conservative to show the effects of the merger as if the PLR is not obtained, the Prudential Acquisition is closed on the day prior to the completion of the REIT Merger, and the required 95% portion of the net cash proceeds distributed as a Special Dividend/distribution to the then outstanding Prentiss shareholders/unitholders (i.e., Scenario 2 above). The effect of this assumption on the pro forma balance sheet is to increase borrowings to consummate the transaction by the amount of the additional cash distribution to the unit holders and reduce the number of units outstanding subsequent to the transaction. The common shareholders are unaffected as they receive the same total cash and same number of Brandywine common shares under either scenario. The impact of this
F-10
assumption on the pro forma statement of operations would be to increase interest expense and lower minority interest allocation. The net impact is not considered material to the pro forma earnings per common share.
Under Scenario 2, total purchase consideration is as follows (in thousands):
Total value of Brandywine shares/units issued and cash merger consideration |
$ | 1,500,390 | ||
Assumed cash settlement for Prentiss options outstanding |
8,392 | |||
Assumption of Prentiss, as adjusted for dispositions, mortgage notes payable at book value |
793,786 | |||
Assumption of Prentiss, as adjusted for dispositions, unsecured credit facilities at book value |
500,845 | |||
Adjustment to reflect the mortgage notes payable assumed in the Prudential Acquisition |
(78,585 | ) | ||
Reversal of Prentisss historical fair value adjustments to notes payable |
(3,836 | ) | ||
Adjustment to record Prentiss mortgages and unsecured notes payable at fair value |
11,572 | |||
Assumption of Prentisss accounts payable and other liabilities at book value |
114,774 | |||
Adjustment to record the fair value of acquired below market leases |
36,451 | |||
Fair value of Prentisss other minority interests |
58,212 | |||
Estimated fees and other expenses related to the merger |
95,846 | |||
Total purchase price of assets acquired |
$ | 3,037,847 | ||
The calculation of the estimated fees and other expenses related to the merger is as follows (in thousands):
Advisor fees |
$ | 14,250 | ||
Legal, accounting and other fees and costs |
4,750 | |||
Share registration and issuance costs |
1,000 | |||
Debt issuance, debt prepayment and debt assumption fees |
21,198 | |||
Real estate transfer taxes |
14,248 | |||
Termination, severance, change in control and other employee related costs |
40,400 | |||
Total |
$ | 95,846 | ||
F-11
(Footnote (C) continued):
Brandywine has allocated the purchase price to the estimated post transaction fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as follows:
Prentiss | ||||||||||||||||
Prentiss | Prudential | as | Post | |||||||||||||
as | Acquisition | Further | Transaction | Pro Forma | ||||||||||||
Adjusted | (C-1) | Adjusted | Fair Value | Adjustments | ||||||||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||||||||||
Real estate investments: |
||||||||||||||||
Operating properties |
$ | 2,166,915 | $ | (525,534 | ) | $ | 1,641,381 | $ | 2,122,653 | $ | 481,272 | C-2 | ||||
Accumulated depreciation |
(283,207 | ) | 76,748 | (206,459 | ) | | 206,459 | C-3 | ||||||||
Operating real estate investments, net |
1,883,708 | (448,786 | ) | 1,434,922 | 2,122,653 | 687,731 | ||||||||||
Properties and related assets held for sale, net |
267,940 | | 267,940 | 346,720 | 78,780 | |||||||||||
Construction-in-progress |
38,871 | (38,871 | ) | | | | ||||||||||
Land held for development |
63,786 | (24,916 | ) | 38,870 | 62,932 | 24,062 | ||||||||||
Total real estate investments, net |
2,254,305 | (512,573 | ) | 1,741,732 | 2,532,305 | 790,573 | ||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
8,813 | 676,513 | 685,326 | 42,638 | (642,688 | ) C-4 | ||||||||||
Escrowed cash |
44,949 | | 44,949 | 44,949 | | |||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
9,684 | | 9,684 | 9,684 | | |||||||||||
Accrued rent receivable, net |
35,457 | (11,462 | ) | 23,995 | | (23,995 | ) C-5 | |||||||||
Marketable securities |
5,208 | | 5,208 | 5,208 | | |||||||||||
Investment in real estate ventures |
7,139 | | 7,139 | 51,561 | 44,422 | C-6 | ||||||||||
Deferred costs, net |
62,244 | (13,830 | ) | 48,414 | 5,767 | (42,647 | ) C-7 | |||||||||
Intangible assets, net |
42,011 | | 42,011 | 323,184 | 281,173 | C-8 | ||||||||||
Other assets |
22,551 | | 22,551 | 22,551 | | |||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 2,492,361 | $ | 138,648 | $ | 2,631,009 | $ | 3,037,847 | $ | 406,838 | ||||||
LIABILITIES
AND BENEFICIARIES EQUITY |
||||||||||||||||
Mortgage notes payable |
$ | 793,786 | $ | (78,585 | ) | $ | 715,201 | $ | 618,919 | $ | (96,282 | ) C-9 | ||||
Unsecured notes |
| | | | | |||||||||||
Unsecured credit faculty |
500,845 | | 500,845 | 1,179,388 | 678,543 | C-10 | ||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued expenses |
55,288 | | 55,288 | 55,288 | | |||||||||||
Distribution payable |
28,476 | | 28,476 | | (28,476 | ) C-11 | ||||||||||
Tenant security deposits and deferred rents |
16,974 | | 16,974 | 16,974 | | |||||||||||
Acquired below market leases |
11,439 | (1,311 | ) | 10,128 | 36,452 | 26,324 | C-12 | |||||||||
Liabilities related to properties held for sale |
11,865 | | 11,865 | 11,865 | | |||||||||||
Other liabilities |
2,171 | | 2,171 | 2,171 | | |||||||||||
Total liabilities |
1,420,844 | (79,896 | ) | 1,340,948 | 1,921,057 | 580,109 | ||||||||||
Minority interest |
87,118 | (3,670 | ) | 83,448 | 110,019 | 26,571 | C-13 | |||||||||
Beneficiaries equity: |
||||||||||||||||
Preferred shares |
74,825 | | 74,825 | | (74,825 | ) C-14 | ||||||||||
Common shares |
496 | | 496 | 341 | (155 | ) C-14 | ||||||||||
Additional paid in capital |
977,664 | | 977,664 | 1,006,430 | 28,766 | C-14 | ||||||||||
Cumulative earnings |
659,538 | 222,214 | 881,752 | | (881,752 | ) C-14 | ||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
7,710 | | 7,710 | | (7,710 | ) C-14 | ||||||||||
Cumulative distributions |
(735,834 | ) | | (735,834 | ) | | 735,834 | C-14 | ||||||||
Total beneficiaries equity |
984,399 | 222,214 | 1,206,613 | 1,006,771 | (199,842 | ) | ||||||||||
Total
liabilities and beneficiaries equity |
$ | 2,492,361 | $ | 138,648 | $ | 2,631,009 | $ | 3,037,847 | $ | 406,838 | ||||||
C-1 | Adjustment to eliminate the historical carrying amount of assets and liabilities related to assets acquired by Prudential at the time of the merger. Amount presented as cash and cash equivalents represents the cash consideration from Prudential. |
C-2 | Fair market value adjustment to Prentisss real estate assets held for investment based on Brandywines purchase price allocation. |
C-3 | Adjustment to eliminate Prentisss historical accumulated depreciation. |
C-4 | As previously indicated, for purposes of these pro forma financial statements, it has been assumed that the Prudential Acquisition is consummated on the day prior to the REIT Merger and a Special Dividend/Distribution is declared to the Prentiss common shareholders and
unitholders in the aggregate amount of 95% of the net cash proceeds of the Prudential Acquisition. |
C-5 | Adjustment to eliminate Prentisss straight-line rent balance. |
C-6 | Prentisss investments in operating joint ventures have been adjusted to their estimated fair value as of September 30, 2005. The same valuation methods used for the direct owned real estate assets of Prentiss were used in calculating this adjustment. |
F-12
C-7 | Adjustment to eliminate Prentisss capitalized debt issuance costs and capitalized leasing costs totaling $48.4 million and to reflect the capitalization of issuance costs associated with debt issued and assumed in the merger of $5.8 million. |
C-8 | Adjustment to Prentisss historical balance of intangible assets are as follows: |
Elimination of historical Prentiss intangible amounts | $ | (42,011 | ) |
Recognition of intangible value of acquired in place leases / tenant relationships | 266,289 | ||
Recognition of asset associated with the acquired in place leases that have above market lease rates | 56,895 | ||
$ | 281,173 | ||
C-9 | Adjustments to Prentiss as Further Adjusted balance of mortgage notes payable are as follows: |
Elimination of historical Prentiss mortgage notes payable that will be repaid at closing of the merger |
(104,018 | ) | |
Elimination of historical Prentiss fair value adjustment on mortgage notes payable |
(3,836 | ) | |
Reflects the estimated fair value adjustment based on Brandywines estimates of the interest rates that would be available to Brandywine for the issuance of debt with similar terms and remaining maturities. The interest rates on the assumed debt are considered to be above market. |
11,572 | ||
(96,282 | ) | ||
C-10 | Net borrowings under lines of credit are assumed to: (i) fund the aggregate cash merger consideration of $441.8 million; (ii) other estimated fees and other expenses of the merger aggregating $95.8 million; (iii) fund the assumed payment of Prentisss accrued dividend payable as
of September 30, 2005 of $28.5 million; (iv) fund the assumed cash redemption of outstanding Prentiss options of approximately $8.4 million; and (v) fund the repayment of mortgage notes payable of $104.0 million. Brandywine expects to: (i) borrow $750 million on an
unsecured facility with a term of 364 days from the closing of the merger; (ii) borrow $175 million on an unsecured short-term bridge financing; and (iii) use its existing revolving line of credit. The bridge financing is expected to be repaid using the proceeds from the sale of the
assets and the $750 million unsecured facility is expected to be repaid from the proceeds of long term financings. |
C-11 | Adjustment to reflect the assumed payment of accrued dividends before closing. |
C-12 | Adjustment to eliminate Prentisss historical liability for acquired below market leases of $10.1 million and to reflect the recognition of a liability associated with the acquired in place leases that have below market lease rates of $36.5 million. |
F-13
C-13 | Adjustment to reflect the change in minority interest in the operating partnership based on the value of units to be issued to Prentiss unitholders and the fair market value of minority interest holders in other consolidated partnerships, as follows (in thousands): |
Prentiss | |||||||||
Operating | Other | ||||||||
Partnership | minority | ||||||||
Units | interests | Total | |||||||
Historical carrying value of minority interest at September 30, 2005 | $ | 34,856 | $ | 52,262 | $ | 87,118 | |||
Prudential Acquisition | | (3,670 | ) | (3,670 | ) | ||||
Adjustment to fair value | 16,951 | 9,620 | 26,571 | ||||||
Fair value in pro forma | $ | 51,807 | $ | 58,212 | $ | 110,019 | |||
C-14 | Adjustments represent the elimination of historical Prentiss balances and the issuance of Brandywine common shares in the merger. The Brandywine common shares issued are valued as follows: |
Number
of shares assumed to be issued |
34,081,600 | |||
Par
value, $0.01 par value per share |
$ | 341 | ||
Additional
paid in capital |
1,006,430 | |||
|
|
|||
Total
value of shares issued |
$ | 1,006,771 | ||
(D) On September 21, 2004, Brandywine completed the acquisition of 100% of the partnership interests in The Rubenstein Company, L.P. (the Rubenstein Acquisition). Pro forma information relating to the Rubenstein Acquisition is presented as if the acquisition and the related financing transactions occurred on January 1, 2004. Through the acquisition, Brandywine acquired 14 office properties (the TRC Properties) located in Pennsylvania and Delaware that contain approximately 3.5 million net rentable square feet. The results of TRCs operations have been included in Brandywines consolidated financial statements since that date.
The aggregate consideration for the Rubenstein Acquisition was $631.3 million including $29.3 million of closing costs, debt prepayment penalties and debt premiums that are included in the basis of the assets acquired. The consideration was paid with $540.4 million of cash, $79.3 million of debt assumed, $1.6 million of other liabilities assumed, and 343,006 Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units valued at $10.0 million. The value of the debt assumed was based on prevailing market rates at the time of acquisition. The value of the Brandywine Operating Partnership Class A Units was based on the average trading price of the Brandywines common shares immediately prior to closing.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information gives effect to:
| The Rubenstein Acquisition; |
| Brandywines September 2004 issuance of 7,750,000 common shares used to fund the Rubenstein Acquisition |
| Brandywine Operating Partnerships repayment of an existing $100 million term loan facility in September 2004 |
|
| Brandywine Operating Partnerships issuance in October 2004, of $275.0 million of its 2009 4.5% unsecured notes (the 2009 Notes) and $250.0 million of its 2014 5.4% unsecured notes (the 2014 Notes) in an underwritten public offering. The Operating Partnership
received net proceeds, after discounts, of approximately $520.1 million. Brandywine and certain of the wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership fully and unconditionally guaranteed the payment of principal and interest on the Notes. In anticipation of the
issuance of the Notes, Brandywine entered into treasury lock agreements with notional amounts totaling $194.8 million with an expiration of 5 |
F-14
years at an all-in rate of 4.8% and with notional amounts totaling $188.0 million with an expiration of 10 years at an all-in rate of 5.6%. Upon issuance of the Notes, Brandywine
terminated the treasury lock agreements at a total cost of $3.2 million that will be amortized to interest expense over the life of the respective Notes. |
| Brandywine Operating Partnerships sale in December 2004 of $113.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 2008 unsecured notes (the 2008 Notes) to a group of institutional investors. The 2008 Notes bear interest from their date of issuance at the fixed rate of
4.34% per annum and mature on December 14, 2008. |
| Actual repayments on Brandywines revolving credit facility of $200.0 million in October 2004 as a result of the above transactions to decrease interest expense. |
| Elimination of a preferred share redemption/conversion benefit of $4.5 million relating to the redemption of previously outstanding preferred shares of Brandywine in 2004. |
(E) During the year ended December 31, 2004, Prentiss acquired six office buildings totaling approximately 2.1 million net rentable square feet that are included in Prentisss income from continuing operations (collectively, the 2004 Acquired Properties). Two additional properties totaling approximately 0.2 million net rentable square feet were acquired by Prentiss in 2004, the operations of which are now classified in income from discontinued operations. During 2005, Prentiss acquired seven office buildings totaling approximately 1.2 million net rentable square feet (collectively, the 2005 Acquired Properties, and together with the 2004 Acquired Properties, the Acquired Properties). Information related to the Acquired Properties is included in the table below:
Market | Net Rentable | Acquisition | |||||||||||||
Month of | Number of | Square Feet | Price | ||||||||||||
Acquisition | Buildings | (in thousands) | (in thousands) | ||||||||||||
2004 Acquired Properties |
|||||||||||||||
Cityplace Center |
Dallas, Texas | Apr-04 | 1 | 1,296 | $ | 123,335 | |||||||||
The Bluffs |
San Diego, California | May-04 | 1 | 69 | 17,739 | ||||||||||
Great America Parkway |
Santa Clara, California | May-04 | 3 | 306 | 34,817 | ||||||||||
2101 Webster |
Oakland, California | Oct-04 | 1 | 459 | 65,674 | ||||||||||
6 | 2,130 | $ | 241,565 | ||||||||||||
2005 Acquired Properties |
|||||||||||||||
Presidents Plaza |
Herndon, Virginia | Feb-05 | 2 | 197 | $ | 51,818 | |||||||||
Tysons International Partners |
Tysons Corner, Virginia | May-05 | 2 | 456 | 103,222 | ||||||||||
1333 Broadway |
Oakland, California | Jul-05 | 1 | 238 | 40,027 | ||||||||||
Concord Airport Plaza |
Concord, California | Aug-05 | 2 | 350 | 69,457 | ||||||||||
7 | 1,241 | $ | 264,524 | ||||||||||||
Acquired Properties |
13 | 3,371 | $ | 506,089 | |||||||||||
Aggregate consideration for the Acquired Properties was paid with borrowings under Prentisss revolving credit facility of $327.4 million, debt assumed of $116.0 million, the issuance of Prentiss Operating Partnership common units valued at $21.2 million and contributions from limited partners of $41.5 million. The value of the debt assumed was based on prevailing market rates at the time of acquisition. The value of the Prentiss Operating Partnership common units was based on the closing price of Prentiss common shares on the acquisition date.
The operating results for the 2004 Acquired Properties since the date of acquisition are already included in Prentisss historical results from operations. The pro forma amounts below represent the additional amounts necessary to reflect the results of the Acquired Properties for the period from January 1, 2004 through the acquisition date for the 2004 Acquired Properties and for the entire year ended December 31, 2004 for the 2005 Acquired Properties.
F-15
Pro forma information for Prentiss acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2004 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2004 Acquired Properties |
2005 Acquired Properties |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Great | Tysons | Concord | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cityplace | The | America | 2101 | Presidents | International | 1333 | Airport | Pro Forma | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Center | Bluffs | Parkway | Webster | Plaza | Partners | Broadway | Plaza | Adjustments | Acquisitions | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rents |
$ | 12,895 | $ | 446 | $ | | $ | 7,070 | $ | 4,102 | $ | 11,209 | $ | 5,649 | $ | 7,238 | $ | (4,607 | ) E-1 | $ | 44,002 | ||||||||||
Tenant Reimbursements |
| | | 665 | 114 | 769 | 311 | 1,710 | | 3,569 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
12 | | | | | | | | | 12 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
12,907 | 446 | | 7,735 | 4,216 | 11,978 | 5,960 | 8,948 | (4,607 | ) | 47,583 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Property operating expenses |
2,873 | 205 | 106 | 3,579 | 1,021 | 3,302 | 2,811 | 2,763 | (1,450 | ) E-2 | 15,210 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate taxes |
1,096 | 69 | 128 | 671 | 393 | 982 | 459 | 581 | | 4,379 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| | | | | | | | 17,067 | E-3 | 17,067 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Administrative expenses |
| | | | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
3,969 | 274 | 234 | 4,250 | 1,414 | 4,284 | 3,270 | 3,344 | 15,617 | 36,656 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Income |
8,938 | 172 | (234 | ) | 3,485 | 2,802 | 7,694 | 2,690 | 5,604 | (20,224 | ) | 10,927 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest Expense |
| | | | | | | | (16,422 | ) E-4 | (16,422 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Loss on investment in securities |
| | | | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from impairment of mortgage loan |
| | | | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Equity in income of real estate ventures |
| | | | | | | | 100 | E-5 | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net gain on sale of real estate |
| | | | | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Income before minority interest |
8,938 | 172 | (234 | ) | 3,485 | 2,802 | 7,694 | 2,690 | 5,604 | (36,546 | ) | (5,395 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Minority Interest attributable to continuing operations |
| | | | | | | | (185 | ) E-6 | (185 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Income from continuing operations |
$ | 8,938 | $ | 172 | $ | (234 | ) | $ | 3,485 | $ | 2,802 | $ | 7,694 | $ | 2,690 | $ | 5,604 | $ | (36,731 | ) | $ | (5,580 | ) | ||||||||
E-1 | Reflects adjustments to revenue resulting from the new lease executed with 7-Eleven, Inc. upon Prentisss acquisition of Cityplace Center. Cityplace Center was 100% leased by 7-Eleven, Inc. under a master lease agreement with the previous owner, an affiliate of 7-Eleven, Inc. 7-Eleven, Inc. sublet approximately 42% of the buildings net rentable feet. Concurrent with the acquisition of Cityplace, 7-Eleven, Inc. executed a three year lease for annual rental revenues of approximately $10.3 million and Prentiss assumed the subleases. The historical revenues of Cityplace Center reflect 100% occupancy under the master lease agreement. | $ | (6,437 | ) | |
Reflects the adjustment necessary to record rental income for in-place leases on a straight-line basis beginning January 1, 2004 and amortization of the above and below market lease values from the Acquired Properties over the remaining noncancelable term of the leases ranging from 1 to 11 years. | 1,830 | ||||
$ | (4,607 | ) | |||
E-2 | Reflects adjustments to exclude historical property management fees paid to third parties (through the dates of acquisition) because the Acquired Properties subsequent to acquisition are managed by an entity affiliated with Prentiss. |
E-3 |
Reflects adjustments to reflect depreciation and amortization related to the Acquired Properties. Purchase price allocated to buildings and improvements is amortized over their estimated useful lives of 40 years. Purchase price allocated to other tangible and intangible real estate related assets is amortized over the estimated useful lives ranging from 1 to 11 years. |
F-16
E-4 | Reflects the additional interest costs for the year ended December 31, 2004 that would have been incurred had the Acquired Properties been acquired on January 1, 2004. The increased interest cost results from $116.0 million of debt assumed with the Acquired Properties and $327.4 million of borrowings under Prentisss revolving credit facility. The increase in interest cost from the debt assumptions is partially offset in the pro forma adjustments by the amortization of the fair value adjustment to the debt assumed. Interest costs from additional borrowings under Prentisss revolving credit facility are based on 30-day LIBOR of 4.10% plus 95 basis points. Each 1/8th of 1% increase in the annual interest rate of the revolving credit facility will increase interest expense by approximately $0.3 million. |
E-5 |
On May 2, 2005, Prentiss completed a transaction in which it acquired the remaining 75% interest in the properties owned by Tysons International Partners, a joint venture that prior to the transaction was owned 25% by Prentiss and 75% by an unrelated third party. Concurrent with the acquisition of the remaining 75%, the results of operations were consolidated with and into the accounts of Prentiss. The adjustment reflects the elimination of equity in income from Tyson International Partners that was recognized by Prentiss prior to the acquisition. |
E-6 |
Reflects the allocation of earnings to the minority interests in the Prentiss Operating Partnership and subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership as a result of the pro forma adjustments based on weighted average minority interest ownership percentages for the period. |
(F) As previously described in footnote (B) to the consolidated pro forma balance sheet, subsequent to September 30, 2005, Prentiss sold six properties containing approximately 1.0 million net rentable square feet (the Dispositions). In addition to the Dispositions, Prentiss disposed of 13 properties containing approximately 1.8 million net rentable square feet during the period January 1, 2004 through September 30, 2005, (which when combined with the Dispositions are referred to herein as the Disposition Properties). The operations of each of the Disposition Properties along with interest expense on mortgage loans collateralized by certain of the Disposition Properties is included in income from discontinued operations in the Prentiss historical consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2004 and thus is excluded from income from continuing operations in the both the Prentiss historical consolidated statement of operations and the pro forma consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2004.
The pro forma interest adjustment represents an interest expense savings for the period prior to sale, resulting from the extinguishment of debt obligations with $313.7 million of proceeds from the Disposition Properties. The extinguishment of debt included the defeasance of two loans totaling approximately $204.2 million along with related extinguishment cost of $12.3 million and the repayment of $97.2 million of Prentiss credit facility.
The pro forma adjustment to minority interest attributable to continuing operations reflects the allocation of earnings to the minority interests in the Prentiss Operating Partnership and subsidiaries of the Prentiss Operating Partnership as a result of the pro forma adjustments based on weighted average minority interest ownership percentages for the period.
F-17
(G) The operating results for the 2005 Acquired Properties since the date of acquisition are already included in Prentisss historical results from operations. The pro forma amounts below represent the additional amounts necessary to reflect the results of the 2005 Acquired Properties for the period from January 1, 2005 through the acquisition date for the 2005 Acquired Properties.
2005 Acquired Properties |
|||||||||||||||||||
Presidents Plaza |
Tysons International Partners |
1333 Broadway |
Concord Airport Plaza |
Pro Forma Adjustments |
Total Acquisitions |
||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
|||||||||||||||||||
Rents |
$ | 557 | $ | 3,881 | $ | 2,913 | $ | 4,515 | $ | 37 | G-1 | $ | 11,903 | ||||||
Tenant Reimbursements |
23 | 330 | 117 | 1,125 | | 1,595 | |||||||||||||
Other |
| | | | | | |||||||||||||
Total revenue |
580 | 4,211 | 3,030 | 5,640 | 37 | 13,498 | |||||||||||||
Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||||||||
Property operating expenses |
141 | 1,017 | 1,481 | 1,406 | (415) | G-2 | 3,630 | ||||||||||||
Real estate taxes |
58 | 452 | 247 | 370 | | 1,127 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| | | | 5,012 | G-3 | 5,012 | ||||||||||||
Administrative expenses |
| | | | | | |||||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
199 | 1,469 | 1,728 | 1,776 | 4,597 | 9,769 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income |
381 | 2,742 | 1,302 | 3,864 | (4,560 | ) | 3,729 | ||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
|||||||||||||||||||
Interest Income |
| | | | | | |||||||||||||
Interest Expense |
| (8,831 | ) | | | 4,219 | G-4 | (4,612 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity in income of real estate ventures |
| | | | 2,216 | G-5 | 2,216 | ||||||||||||
Net gain on sale of real estate |
| | | | | | |||||||||||||
381 | (6,089 | ) | 1,302 | 3,864 | 1,875 | 1,333 | |||||||||||||
Minority Interest attributable to continuing operations |
| | | | 72 | G-6 | 72 | ||||||||||||
$ | 381 | $ | (6,089 | ) | $ | 1,302 | $ | 3,864 | $ | 1,947 | $ | 1,405 | |||||||
G-1 | Reflects the adjustment necessary to record rental income for in-place leases on a straight-line basis beginning January 1, 2004 and amortization of the above and below market lease values from the 2005 Acquired Properties over the remaining noncancelable term of the leases
ranging from 1 to 9 years. |
G-2 | Reflects adjustments to exclude historical property management fees paid to third parties (through the dates of acquisition) as the 2005 Acquired Properties will be managed by an entity affiliated with Prentiss. |
G-3 | Reflects depreciation and amortization related to the 2005 Acquired Properties. Purchase price allocated to buildings and improvements is amortized over their estimated useful lives of 40 years. Purchase price allocated to other real estate assets is amortized over the estimated
useful lives ranging from 1 to 9 years. |
G-4 | Reflects the additional interest costs for the nine month period ended September 30, 2005 that would have been incurred by Prentiss had the properties been acquired on January 1, 2005, offset by an adjustment to remove an $8.8 million non-recurring charge resulting from
early prepayment of debt in connection with the acquisition of Tysons International Properties. The increased interest cost results from $68.3 million of debt assumed with the Acquired Properties and $156.9 million of borrowings under Prentisss revolving credit facility. The
increase in interest cost from the debt assumptions is partially offset in the pro forma adjustments by the amortization of the fair value adjustment to the debt assumed. Interest costs from additional borrowings under Prentisss revolving credit facility are based on 30-day LIBOR
of 4.10% plus 95 basis points. Each 1/8th of 1% increase in the annual interest rate of the revolving credit facility will increase interest expense by approximately $0.1 million. |
G-5 | Reflects the equity in income of Tysons International Properties before the acquisition. |
G-6 | Reflects the 49% minority interest in pro forma net income of the Presidents Plaza Properties and the 1333 Broadway Property. Also reflects the adjustment to minority interest due to holders of Prentiss |
F-18
Operating Partnership common units based on the pro forma net income change and the additional Operating Partnerships common units issued in the Concord Airport Plaza acquisition. |
(H) The operations of each of the Disposition Properties that were sold subsequent to December 31, 2004 along with interest expense on mortgage loans collateralized by the related Disposition Properties is included in income from discontinued operations in the Prentiss historical consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and thus is excluded from income from continuing operations in the both the Prentiss historical consolidated statement of operations and the pro forma consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005.
The pro forma interest adjustment represents an interest expense savings resulting from the extinguishment of debt obligations with $203.8 million of proceeds from the Disposition Properties sold subsequent to December 31, 2004. The extinguishment of debt included the defeasance of two loans totaling approximately $204.2 million along with related extinguishment cost of $12.3 million. The incremental portion of the defeasance was financed with additional borrowings of $12.7 million under Prentiss credit facility.
The pro forma adjustment to minority interest attributable to continuing operations reflects the allocation of earnings to the minority interests in the Prentiss Operating Partnership and subsidiaries of the Prentiss Operating Partnership as a result of the pro forma adjustments based on weighted average minority interest ownership percentages for the period.
(I) Rents are adjusted to: (i) remove Prentisss historical straight-line rent adjustment; (ii) recognize the total minimum lease payments provided under the acquired leases on a straight-line basis over the remaining term as if the merger had occurred on January 1, 2004; and (iii) include amortization of the asset and liability created at the merger date associated with acquired leases where the net present value was assumed to be favorable or unfavorable to relative estimated market rates as if the merger had occurred on January 1, 2004.
(J) Represents the increase in depreciation and amortization expense as a result of the step-up in basis to record Prentisss real estate at the estimated fair value as if the merger had occurred on January 1, 2004 and the increase in amortization expense related to intangible assets associated with acquired leases that were recognized under purchase accounting. Allocations of the step-up to fair value were estimated between depreciable and non-depreciable components based on the asset type and market conditions. An estimated useful life of 40 years was assumed to compute the adjustment to real estate depreciation. For assets and liabilities associated with the value of in place leases, the amortization expense was calculated over the remaining terms of the leases.
(K) Management of Brandywine expects that the merger will create operational and general and administrative cost savings, including property management costs, costs associated with corporate administrative functions and executive compensation. There can be no assurance that Brandywine will be successful in achieving these anticipated cost savings. No estimate of these expected future cost savings has been included in the pro forma financial statements. Such adjustments cannot be factually supported within the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations governing the preparation of pro forma financial statements until such time as the operations of the two companies have been fully integrated.
(L) Adjustments to interest expense are as follows (in thousands):
Weighted | Impact on Pro forma Interest Expense |
||||||||||||
Principal | Average | Year ended | Nine Months ended | ||||||||||
Balance | Interest Rate | December 31, 2004 | September 30, 2005 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
Estimated incremental unsecured borrowing at LIBOR plus spread |
$ | 678,543 | 5.00 | % | $ | 33,927 | $ | 25,445 | |||||
Impact of secured loans to be prepaid after September 30, 2005 |
(104,019 | ) | 6.40 | % | (6,654 | ) | (4,991 | ) | |||||
Eliminate historical premium amortization on assumed debt |
589 | 442 | |||||||||||
Amortization of new debt premium in purchase accounting |
(2,731 | ) | (2,048 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||
$ | 25,131 | $ | 18,848 | ||||||||||
F-19
The pro forma increase in interest expense as a result of the assumed issuance of new debt in the merger is calculated using current market rates (LIBOR of 4.10%) as if the borrowings had been outstanding as of January 1, 2004. Each 1/8 of 1% increase in the annual interest rate assumed with respect to the debt will increase the pro forma interest expense by $0.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2004 and $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2005.
(M) Adjustment to reflect the pro forma impact of the minority interest attributable to continuing operations assuming all Prentiss Operating Partnership units to be converted to Brandywine Operating Partnership units had been outstanding as of January 1, 2004.
(N) During the year ended December 31, 2004 and the nine months ended September 30, 2005, Prentiss had outstanding Series D preferred shares which are convertible into Prentiss common shares at a rate of $26.50 per share. Prentiss may redeem these securities at $26.50 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends anytime after December 29, 2005. Based on the implied transaction value, it is anticipated that these securities would either be converted prior to, or shortly after, the consummation of the REIT Merger upon call for redemption. Accordingly, for purposes of these pro forma financial statements, this conversion has been assumed to occur effective January 1, 2004 and the related preferred distributions have been removed. Also eliminated from the income allocated to preferred shares is a charge of approximately $1.6 million relating to the redemption of previously outstanding preferred shares of Prentiss in 2004.
(O) The calculations of basic and diluted earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shares per share are as follows:
For the year ended December 31, 2004 |
|||||||||||||
Brandywine Historical |
Brandywine Pro Forma |
||||||||||||
Basic | Diluted | Basic | Diluted | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
47,781,789 | 47,781,789 | 47,781,789 | 47,781,789 | |||||||||
Pro forma adjustment for additional common shares issued in September 2004 |
| | 5,505,464 | 5,505,464 | |||||||||
Options and warrants |
| 236,915 | | 236,915 | |||||||||
Pro forma adjustment for additional common shares issued as part of the merger |
| | 34,081,600 | 34,081,600 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
||||||||||
Total weighted average common shares outstanding |
47,781,789 | 48,018,704 | 87,368,853 | 87,605,768 | |||||||||
Earnings per Common Share, Continuing Operations |
$ | 1.10 | $ | 1.09 | $ | 0.26 | $ | 0.25 | |||||
For the nine months ended September 30, 2005 |
|||||||||||||
Brandywine Historical |
Brandywine Pro Forma |
||||||||||||
Basic | Diluted | Basic | Diluted | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
55,734,114 | 55,734,114 | 55,734,114 | 55,734,114 | |||||||||
Options and warrants |
| 234,543 | | 234,543 | |||||||||
Pro forma adjustment for additional common shares issued as part of the merger |
| | 34,081,600 | 34,081,600 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
||||||||||
Total weighted average common shares outstanding |
55,734,114 | 55,968,657 | 89,815,714 | 90,050,257 | |||||||||
Earnings per Common Share, Continuing Operations |
$ | 0.47 | $ | 0.47 | $ | 0.13 | $ | 0.13 | |||||
F-20
ANNEX A
EXECUTION COPY
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
DATED AS OF OCTOBER 3, 2005,
by and among
BRANDYWINE REALTY TRUST,
BRANDYWINE OPERATING PARTNERSHIP, L.P.
BRANDYWINE COGNAC I, LLC
BRANDYWINE COGNAC II, LLC
PRENTISS PROPERTIES TRUST
and
PRENTISS PROPERTIES ACQUISITION PARTNERS, L.P.
A-1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE | ||||
ARTICLE I THE MERGERS | A-7 | |||
Section 1.01. |
The Mergers | A-7 | ||
Section 1.02. |
Closings | A-7 | ||
Section 1.03. |
Effective Times | A-7 | ||
Section 1.04. |
Legal Effects of Mergers | A-8 | ||
Section 1.05. |
Effect of the REIT Merger on the Organizational Documents and Management of the Surviving Company | A-8 | ||
Section 1.06. |
Effect of the OP Merger on the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement | A-8 | ||
Section 1.07. |
Effect of REIT Merger on Company Shares | A-8 | ||
Section 1.08. |
Company Options | A-9 | ||
Section 1.09. |
Effect of OP Merger on Interests of Constituent Entities | A-10 | ||
Section 1.10. |
Structure | A-11 | ||
Section 1.11. |
Election by Limited Partners in Company L.P. to Exercise the Exchange Right; The OP Merger | A-11 | ||
ARTICLE II EXCHANGE OF SECURITIES | A-12 | |||
Section 2.01. |
Exchange Fund | A-12 | ||
Section 2.02. |
Exchange Procedures | A-12 | ||
Section 2.03. |
Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Securities | A-13 | ||
Section 2.04. |
No Further Ownership Rights in Company Common Shares, Company Series D Preferred Shares and Company Common Units | A-14 | ||
Section 2.05. |
No Fractional Shares | A-14 | ||
Section 2.06. |
Termination of Exchange Fund | A-14 | ||
Section 2.07. |
No Liability | A-14 | ||
Section 2.08. |
Investment of the Exchange Fund | A-14 | ||
Section 2.09. |
Lost Certificates | A-15 | ||
Section 2.10. |
Withholding Rights | A-15 | ||
Section 2.11. |
Further Assurances | A-15 | ||
Section 2.12. |
Share Transfer Books | A-15 | ||
ARTICLE III REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY AND COMPANY L.P. | A-16 | |||
Section 3.01. |
Organization, Standing and Power of the Company | A-16 | ||
Section 3.02. |
Company Subsidiaries | A-16 | ||
Section 3.03. |
Authority; No Violations; Consents and Approval | A-17 | ||
Section 3.04. |
Capital Structure | A-18 | ||
Section 3.05. |
Vote Required | A-20 | ||
Section 3.06. |
SEC Documents | A-20 | ||
Section 3.07. |
Absence of Certain Changes or Events | A-21 | ||
Section 3.08. |
Environmental Matters | A-22 | ||
Section 3.09. |
Properties | A-23 | ||
Section 3.10. |
No Undisclosed Material Liabilities | A-25 | ||
Section 3.11. |
No Default | A-26 | ||
Section 3.12. |
Compliance with Applicable Laws | A-26 | ||
Section 3.13. |
Litigation | A-26 | ||
Section 3.14. |
Taxes | A-26 | ||
Section 3.15. |
Pension and Benefit Plans; ERISA | A-28 | ||
Section 3.16. |
Labor and Employment Matters | A-30 | ||
Section 3.17. |
Contracts | A-31 | ||
Section 3.18. |
Intellectual Property | A-32 | ||
Section 3.19. |
Insurance | A-32 | ||
Section 3.20. |
Brokers | A-32 |
A-2
PAGE | ||||
Section 3.21. |
Related Party Transactions | A-33 | ||
Section 3.22. |
Opinion of Financial Advisor | A-33 | ||
Section 3.23. |
Investment Company Act of 1940 | A-33 | ||
Section 3.24. |
Board Recommendation | A-33 | ||
Section 3.25. |
Inapplicability of Takeover Statutes, Rights Agreement and Certain Charter and Bylaw Provisions | A-33 | ||
Section 3.26. |
Information Supplied by the Company | A-33 | ||
Section 3.27. |
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act | A-34 | ||
Section 3.28. |
Limitation | A-34 | ||
ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PARENT, PARENT L.P., MERGER SUB AND L.P. MERGER SUB | A-34 | |||
Section 4.01. |
Organization, Standing and Power of Parent | A-34 | ||
Section 4.02. |
Parent Subsidiaries | A-34 | ||
Section 4.03. |
Authority; No Violations; Consents and Approval | A-35 | ||
Section 4.04. |
Capital Structure | A-36 | ||
Section 4.05. |
Vote Required | A-38 | ||
Section 4.06. |
SEC Documents | A-38 | ||
Section 4.07. |
Absence of Certain Changes or Events | A-39 | ||
Section 4.08. |
Environmental Matters | A-40 | ||
Section 4.09. |
Properties | A-41 | ||
Section 4.10. |
No Undisclosed Material Liabilities | A-43 | ||
Section 4.11. |
No Default | A-43 | ||
Section 4.12. |
Compliance with Applicable Laws | A-43 | ||
Section 4.13. |
Litigation | A-44 | ||
Section 4.14. |
Taxes | A-44 | ||
Section 4.15. |
Pension and Benefit Plans; ERISA | A-46 | ||
Section 4.16. |
Labor and Employment Matters | A-48 | ||
Section 4.17. |
Contracts | A-48 | ||
Section 4.18. |
Intellectual Property | A-49 | ||
Section 4.19. |
Insurance | A-49 | ||
Section 4.20. |
Brokers | A-50 | ||
Section 4.21. |
Related Party Transactions | A-50 | ||
Section 4.22. |
Opinion of Financial Advisor | A-50 | ||
Section 4.23. |
Investment Company Act of 1940 | A-50 | ||
Section 4.24. |
Board Recommendation | A-50 | ||
Section 4.25. |
Inapplicability of Takeover Statutes, Rights Agreement and Certain Charter and By-law Provisions | A-50 | ||
Section 4.26. |
Information Supplied by Parent | A-50 | ||
Section 4.27. |
Merger Sub | A-51 | ||
Section 4.28. |
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act | A-51 | ||
ARTICLE V COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS | A-51 | |||
Section 5.01. |
Conduct of Business by the Company | A-51 | ||
Section 5.02. |
Conduct of Business by Parent | A-55 | ||
Section 5.03. |
Control of Other Partys Business | A-57 | ||
ARTICLE VI ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS | A-57 | |||
Section 6.01. |
Preparation of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus; Shareholder Meetings | A-57 | ||
Section 6.02. |
Access to Information | A-59 | ||
Section 6.03. |
Reasonable Best Efforts; Notification | A-59 | ||
Section 6.04. |
No Solicitation | A-60 | ||
Section 6.05. |
Employees and Benefit Plans | A-62 | ||
Section 6.06. |
Indemnification | A-63 |
A-3
PAGE | ||||
Section 6.07. |
Public Announcements | A-64 | ||
Section 6.08. |
Transfer Taxes | A-64 | ||
Section 6.09. |
Listing of Shares | A-64 | ||
Section 6.10. |
Affiliate Letter | A-64 | ||
Section 6.11. |
Coordination of Dividends | A-64 | ||
Section 6.12. |
Section 16(b) | A-65 | ||
Section 6.13. |
Redemption of Company Series D Preferred Shares | A-65 | ||
Section 6.14. |
Conversion of Company G.P. | A-65 | ||
Section 6.15. |
Repayment of PPREFI Portfolio Collateralized Loan | A-66 | ||
Section 6.16. |
Registration Rights | A-66 | ||
Section 6.17. |
Assumption of Existing Tax Protection Arrangements | A-66 | ||
Section 6.18. |
Director Nominees | A-66 | ||
Section 6.19. |
Tenants Estoppels and SNDAs | A-66 | ||
Section 6.20. |
Suspension of Dividend Reinvestment Plan; Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan | A-67 | ||
Section 6.21. |
Third Party Consents | A-67 | ||
Section 6.22. |
Private Letter Ruling | A-67 | ||
ARTICLE VII CONDITIONS PRECEDENT | A-67 | |||
Section 7.01. |
Conditions to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the REIT Merger | A-67 | ||
Section 7.02. |
Conditions to Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub | A-68 | ||
Section 7.03. |
Conditions to Obligation of the Company | A-68 | ||
ARTICLE VIII TERMINATION, AMENDMENT AND WAIVER | A-69 | |||
Section 8.01. |
Termination | A-69 | ||
Section 8.02. |
Effect of Termination | A-70 | ||
Section 8.03. |
Fees and Expenses | A-70 | ||
Section 8.04. |
Amendment | A-72 | ||
Section 8.05. |
Extension; Waiver | A-72 | ||
ARTICLE IX GENERAL PROVISIONS | A-72 | |||
Section 9.01. |
Nonsurvival of Representations and Warranties | A-72 | ||
Section 9.02. |
Notices | A-72 | ||
Section 9.03. |
Definitions | A-73 | ||
Section 9.04. |
Interpretation | A-82 | ||
Section 9.05. |
Severability | A-82 | ||
Section 9.06. |
Counterparts | A-82 | ||
Section 9.07. |
Entire Agreement; No Third-Party Beneficiaries | A-82 | ||
Section 9.08. |
Governing Law | A-83 | ||
Section 9.09. |
Assignment | A-83 | ||
Section 9.10. |
Enforcement | A-83 | ||
Section 9.11. |
Disclosure Letters | A-83 | ||
ARTICLE X SALE OF SPECIFIED ASSETS | A-83 | |||
Section 10.01. |
Final Condition Notice | A-83 | ||
Section 10.02. |
Entry into Prudential Asset Purchase Agreement | A-83 | ||
Section 10.03. |
Declaration of Distribution and Special Dividend | A-85 | ||
Section 10.04. |
Payment of Special Dividend | A-85 | ||
Section 10.05. |
Effects of the Execution of the Prudential Asset Purchase Agreement and the Payment of the Special Dividend | A-85 |
A-4
Schedules and Exhibits
Schedule I Principal Company Limited Partners
Exhibit A Form of Voting Agreement
Exhibit B Form of Registration Rights Agreement
Exhibit C Rule 145 Affiliate Letter
Exhibit D Prudential Asset Purchase Agreement
A-5
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of October 3, 2005 (this Agreement), among Brandywine Realty Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (Parent), Brandywine Operating Partnership, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (Parent L.P.), Brandywine Cognac I, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company (Merger Sub), Brandywine Cognac II, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (L.P. Merger Sub), Prentiss Properties Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the Company), and Prentiss Properties Acquisition Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (Company L.P.).
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the board of trustees of the Company (the Company Board) has approved and declared the merger (the REIT Merger) of the Company with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub to be the surviving entity (except as provided in Article X), on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, whereby each issued and outstanding common share of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share, of the Company (Company Common Shares) (except for shares owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., the Company or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries) shall be converted into the right to receive the REIT Merger Consideration in accordance with this Agreement, advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, the Company and its shareholders and desires to provide herein, in accordance with Title 8 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, as amended (Maryland REIT Law) and the Maryland Limited Liability Company Act (the MLLCA);
WHEREAS, the Company, as sole general partner (through a wholly-owned direct Subsidiary) of Company L.P., has approved and declared this Agreement advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, Company L.P. and its partners and desires to provide herein, in accordance with the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act (DRULPA) and the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act (DLLCA), for the merger (the OP Merger) of L.P. Merger Sub with and into Company L.P. immediately following the REIT Merger, with Company L.P. to be the surviving entity, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, whereby each Company Common Unit owned by the limited partners of Company L.P. (except for Company Common Units owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, L.P. Merger Sub, Company G.P., Company L.P. or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries) shall be converted automatically into the right to receive the OP Merger Consideration;
WHEREAS, as an alternative to receiving the OP Merger Consideration in connection with the OP Merger, each holder of Company L.P. Units (other than the Company) shall have the right to elect, effective immediately prior to the OP Merger, to exercise their exchange right under the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement, regardless of whether or not they would otherwise be entitled to exercise that exchange right under the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement, and the Company shall issue Company Common Shares in satisfaction of that right, thereby allowing former limited partners in Company L.P. (other than the Company) to participate in the REIT Merger as holders of the Company Common Shares;
WHEREAS, simultaneously with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, Parent, Parent L.P. and certain limited partners of Company L.P. set forth in Schedule I hereto (the Principal Company Limited Partners) have entered into voting agreements in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto (the Voting Agreements) pursuant to which the Principal Company Limited Partners have agreed to take specified actions in furtherance of the REIT Merger; and
WHEREAS Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, L.P. Merger Sub, the Company and Company L.P. desire to make certain representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in connection with the REIT Merger and the OP Merger and also to prescribe various conditions to the REIT Merger and the OP Merger.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in this Agreement, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:
A-6
ARTICLE I
The Mergers
Section 1.01. The Mergers.
(a) REIT Merger. Except as provided in Section 10.5, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, at the REIT Effective Time, the Company shall be merged with and into Merger Sub. Except as provided in Section 10.5, at the REIT Effective Time, the separate existence of the Company shall cease and Merger Sub shall continue as the surviving company (the Surviving Company).
(b) OP Merger. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, immediately following the REIT Merger, L.P. Merger Sub shall be merged with and into Company L.P. At such time, the separate existence of L.P. Merger Sub shall cease and Company L.P. shall continue as the surviving partnership (the Surviving L.P.).
Section 1.02. Closings.
(a) Unless this Agreement has been earlier terminated in accordance with its terms or the REIT Merger has been abandoned pursuant to Section 10.05(a), the closing (the REIT Closing) of the REIT Merger shall take place at the offices of Pepper Hamilton LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at 10:00 a.m. on the second business day following the satisfaction (or, to the extent permitted by Law, waiver by the party or parties entitled to the benefits thereof) of the conditions set forth in Article VII if Parent shall have received the Private Letter Ruling that confirms the matters referred to in Section 6.22 prior to the Final Condition Notice Date, or such other place, time and date as shall be agreed in writing between Parent and the Company.
(b) Unless this Agreement has been earlier terminated in accordance with its terms or the REIT Merger has been consummated pursuant to Section 1.02(a), the REIT Closing of the Reverse REIT Merger shall take place at the offices of Pepper Hamilton LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at 10:00 a.m. on the first business day following the Final Condition Satisfaction Date if Parent shall not have received the Private Letter Ruling that confirms the matters referred to in Section 6.22 before the Final Condition Satisfaction Date, or such other place, time and date as shall be agreed in writing between Parent and the Company.
(c) The closing of the OP Merger (the OP Closing and, together with the REIT Closing, the Closing) shall take place immediately after the effectiveness of the REIT Merger at the offices identified above. The date on which the Closing occurs is referred to in this Agreement as the Closing Date. If the REIT Closing and the OP Closing occur on different dates, then the term Closing Date shall mean, with respect to the REIT Merger, the date on which the REIT Closing occurs and, with respect to the OP Merger, the date on which the OP Closing occurs.
Section 1.03. Effective Times.
(a) Prior to the REIT Closing, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and the Company shall prepare, and, on the Closing Date, the Company shall file with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland articles of merger and/or such other appropriate documents (the Articles of Merger) executed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Maryland REIT Law and the MLLCA and shall make all other filings or recordings required under the Maryland REIT Law and the MLLCA to effect the REIT Merger. The REIT Merger shall become effective at such time as the Articles of Merger are accepted for record by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland, or at such later time as Parent L.P. and the Company shall agree and specify in the Articles of Merger; provided, however, that if Parent shall not have received the Private Letter Ruling that confirms the matters referred to in Section 6.22 before the Final Condition Satisfaction Date, the Company shall file the Articles of Merger with the State Department of Assessment and Taxation of Maryland on the Final Condition Satisfaction Date to be effective on the following business day at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (the time at which the REIT Merger becomes effective being the REIT Effective Time).
(b) Prior to the OP Closing, Parent L.P., L.P. Merger Sub and Company L.P. shall prepare, and, immediately after the REIT Effective Time or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, Company L.P.
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shall file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware a certificate of merger and/or such other appropriate documents (the OP Merger Certificate) executed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the DRULPA and the DLLCA and shall make all other filings or recordings required under the DRULPA and the DLLCA to effect the OP Merger. The OP Merger shall become effective at such time as the OP Merger Certificate is duly filed with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, or at such later time as Parent L.P. and Company L.P. shall agree and specify in the OP Merger Certificate; provided, however, that if Parent shall not have received the Private Letter Ruling that confirms the matters referred to in Section 6.22 before the Final Condition Satisfaction Date, Company L.P. shall file the OP Merger Certificate with the of Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on the Final Condition Satisfaction Date to be effective on the following business day at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (the time at which the OP Merger becomes effective being the OP Effective Time and, together with the REIT Effective Time, the Effective Time).
Section 1.04. Legal Effects of Mergers. The REIT Merger shall have the effects set forth in Section 8-501.1 of the Maryland REIT Law and Section 4A-709 of the MLLCA. The OP Merger shall have the effects set forth in Section 17-211 of the DRULPA and Section 18-209 of the DLLCA.
Section 1.05. Effect of the REIT Merger on the Organizational Documents and Management of the Surviving Company.
(a) Organizational Documents. Except as provided in Section 10.5, from and after the REIT Effective Time, the operating agreement of Merger Sub shall be the operating agreement of the Surviving Company until thereafter changed or amended as provided therein or by applicable Law.
(b) Management. The officers of Merger Sub as of the REIT Effective Time shall be the officers of the Surviving Company until the earlier of their resignation or removal or otherwise ceasing to be an officer or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified, as the case may be.
Section 1.06. Effect of the OP Merger on the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement. The Company L.P. Partnership Agreement shall be amended and restated as of the OP Effective Time in accordance with the instructions of Parent and, as so amended, shall be the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Surviving L.P. until thereafter changed or amended as provided therein or by applicable Law.
Section 1.07. Effect of REIT Merger on Company Shares.
(a) Each Company Common Share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time (other than Company Common Shares owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., the Company or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries, all of which shall be canceled as provided in Section 1.07(d)) shall be converted into the right to receive (i) $21.50 in cash minus the Cash Adjustment Amount (as the same may be adjusted pursuant to Section 10.5 the Cash Consideration) and (ii) a fraction of a fully paid and nonassessable Parent Common Share equal to the Common Exchange Ratio (which Common Exchange Ratio is subject to adjustment as set forth below), subject to Section 2.05 with respect to fractional shares (collectively, the REIT Merger Consideration). For purposes of this Agreement, the Common Exchange Ratio means 0.69, appropriately adjusted for any share splits, reverse share splits, share dividends, recapitalizations or other similar transactions.
(b) Each Company Series D Preferred Share issued and outstanding on the date hereof shall be redeemed, if subject to redemption, by the Company as provided in Section 6.13 unless earlier converted by the holder into a Company Common Share prior to such time; provided, however, that any Company Series D Preferred Share, which is not subject to redemption on or prior to the Closing Date, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time (other than Company Series D Preferred Shares owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., the Company or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries, all of which shall be canceled as provided in Section 1.07(d)), shall be converted into the right to receive one fully paid and nonassessable Parent Series E Cumulative Convertible Redeemable Preferred Share (the Parent Series E Preferred Shares). As a result of the REIT Merger and without any action on the part of the holders thereof, at the REIT Effective Time, all Company Series D Preferred Shares shall cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of a certificate which immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time evidenced any such Company Series D Preferred Share (a
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Series D Certificate) shall thereafter cease to have any rights with respect to such Company Series D Preferred Shares, except (i) the right to receive Parent Series E Preferred Shares, and (ii) any dividends or other distributions to which holders of Company Series D Preferred Shares become entitled, all in accordance with Article II upon the surrender of such Series D Certificate. If the Closing Date occurs prior to the date that the Company Series D Preferred Shares may be redeemed and any such shares remain issued and outstanding, prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Declaration of Trust of Parent shall be amended in accordance with Maryland law in order to create the Parent Series E Preferred Shares, which will have the same preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends, qualifications and terms or conditions of redemption thereof identical to that of a Company Series D Preferred Share (except for changes that do not materially and adversely affect the holders of the Company Series D Preferred Shares).
(c) As a result of the REIT Merger and without any action on the part of the holders thereof, at the REIT Effective Time, all Company Common Shares and Company Series D Preferred Shares, including those Company Common Shares held by the Company in trust, or otherwise designated, for the participants in and beneficiaries of the Company Deferred Compensation Plans (other than shares referred to in Section 1.07(d)) shall cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of a certificate which immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time evidenced any such shares (a Certificate) shall thereafter cease to have any rights with respect to such Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares except (i) the right to receive the REIT Merger Consideration or Parent Series E Preferred Shares, as the case may be, (ii) any cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares to be issued or paid in consideration for Company Common Shares and (iii) any dividends or other distributions to which holders become entitled, all in accordance with Article II upon the surrender of such Certificate.
(d) Each Company Common Share and Company Series D Preferred Share owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., the Company or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries at the REIT Effective Time (other than those Company Common Shares held by the Company in trust, or otherwise designated, for the participants in and beneficiaries of the Company Deferred Compensation Plans) shall, by virtue of the REIT Merger, cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist and no REIT Merger Consideration or other consideration shall be delivered in exchange therefor.
(e) Each Company Common Share held by the Company in trust, or otherwise designated, for participants in and beneficiaries of the Company Deferred Compensation Plans shall be converted into a number of fully paid and non-assessable Parent Common Shares equal to the Option Exchange Ratio.
(f) Except as provided in Section 10.5, the membership interests of Merger Sub issued and outstanding immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time shall remain issued and outstanding and unchanged by the REIT Merger.
(g) If prior to the REIT Effective Time, Parent or the Company, as the case may be, should split, combine or otherwise reclassify the Parent Common Shares or the Company Common Shares, or make a distribution in Parent Common Shares or Company Common Shares, as applicable, or otherwise change the Parent Common Shares or Company Common Shares into any other securities, or make any other such share dividend or distribution in shares of beneficial interest of Parent or the Company in respect of the Parent Common Shares or the Company Common Shares, respectively, then any number or amount contained herein which is based upon the price of the Parent Common Shares or the number of Company Common Shares or Parent Common Shares, as the case may be (including but not limited to the Cash Consideration and the Common Exchange Ratio), will be appropriately adjusted to reflect such split, combination, dividend or other distribution or change.
Section 1.08. Company Options.
(a) Except as otherwise set forth in Section 1.08(c), the Company shall take all actions necessary and appropriate to provide that at the REIT Effective Time each outstanding and unexercised option to purchase Company Common Shares granted under any of the Company Incentive Plans (each, a Company Option), whether or not exercisable or vested, shall be converted into an option to purchase Parent Common Shares (each, a New Parent Option), on the same terms and conditions as were applicable under the
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Company Option (but taking into account any changes thereto, including the acceleration thereof, provided for in the Company Incentive Plans or other agreement set forth on the Company Disclosure Letter). Each New Parent Option shall be exercisable for a number of Parent Common Shares equal to (i) the number of Company Common Shares subject to the Company Option to which such New Parent Option relates multiplied by (ii) the Option Exchange Ratio, rounded to the nearest share. The per share exercise price of each New Parent Option shall equal (A) the per share exercise price of the Company Option to which such New Parent Option relates divided by (B) the Option Exchange Ratio, rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent. For this purpose, the Option Exchange Ratio shall be equal to a fraction, the numerator of which is the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger Consideration on the Closing Date (with the portion of the REIT Merger Consideration that consists of Parent Common Shares valued at the Closing Date Market Price) and the denominator of which is the Closing Date Market Price; provided, however, that if a Special Dividend is declared pursuant to Section 10.3, the Option Exchange Ratio shall be an amount equal to the foregoing plus an amount equal to the quotient that results from dividing the Special Dividend Amount by the Closing Date Market Price.
(b) Subject to Section 1.08(c) and the terms of the Company Incentive Plans and applicable Laws, the Company and Parent shall take any actions necessary and appropriate to cause the Company Incentive Plans to be assumed by Parent at the REIT Effective Time, and from and after the REIT Effective Time, except as otherwise set forth herein, the terms of each Company Option and the Company Incentive Plan under which such Company Option was initially granted, in each case, as in effect immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time, shall continue to apply to the corresponding New Parent Option.
(c) Prior to the REIT Effective Time and subject to the terms of the Company Incentive Plans, the Company may, in its sole discretion, take all actions necessary and appropriate to allow each holder of a Company Option (whether or not exercisable or vested) to elect, in lieu of the treatment provided in Section 1.08(a), to convert each Company Option so held into the right to receive an amount of cash at the REIT Effective Time equal to the product of (i) the excess, if any, of the sum of the per share dollar value of the REIT Merger Consideration on the Closing Date (with the portion of the REIT Merger Consideration that consists of Parent Common Shares valued at the Closing Date Market Price) and the Special Dividend Amount, if any, over the per share exercise price of such Company Option and (ii) the number of Company Common Shares subject to such Company Option (such payment to be net of all applicable withholding taxes). The Company shall notify Parent not later than five days prior to the REIT Effective Time of the number of Company Options for which the treatment provided in this Section 1.08(c) has been elected and the total amount of cash payable pursuant to such elections.
(d) Prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Company shall take all necessary action for the adjustment of the Company Options under this Section 1.08. Parent shall reserve for issuance a number of Parent Common Shares at least equal to the number of Parent Common Shares that will be subject to the Company Options that are to be converted into New Parent Options pursuant to this Section 1.08. As soon as reasonably practicable following the REIT Effective Time, Parent shall file an amendment to the Form S-4 on Form S-8 or shall file a registration statement on Form S-8 (or any successor, or if Form S-8 is not available, other appropriate forms) with respect to the Parent Common Shares issuable upon exercise of the New Parent Options and shall maintain the effectiveness of such registration statement or registration statements (and maintain the current status of the prospectus or prospectuses contained therein) for so long as such options remain outstanding.
Section 1.09. Effect of OP Merger on Interests of Constituent Entities.
(a) As of the OP Effective Time, without any further action on the part of any holder of Company L.P. Units or any other party hereto:
(i) The Company GP Units issued and outstanding immediately prior to the OP Effective Time shall remain issued and outstanding and unchanged by the OP Merger.
(ii) Each Company Common Unit (other than any Company Common Units owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, L.P. Merger Sub, Company G.P., Company L.P. or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries which shall remain issued and outstanding and
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unchanged by the OP Merger) owned or held by the limited partners of Company L.P. immediately prior to the effectiveness of the OP Merger shall be converted into the right to receive a number of Parent Class A Units equal to the Common Interest Exchange Ratio (the OP Merger Consideration). For purposes of this Agreement, the Common Interest Exchange Ratio means the sum of (x) the Common Exchange Ratio plus (y) the quotient that results from dividing the Cash Consideration (giving effect to any decrease thereto as provided in Section 1.07(a)) by $31.1594. As a result of the OP Merger and without any action on the part of the holders thereof, at the OP Effective Time, all Company Common Units converted as provided in the preceding sentence shall cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of such Company Common Units shall thereafter cease to have any rights with respect to such Company Common Units, except the right to receive the OP Merger Consideration and any dividends or other distributions to which such holder becomes entitled, all in accordance with Article II upon the exchange of such Company Common Unit; and
(iii) The limited liability company interests in L.P. Merger Sub outstanding immediately prior to the effectiveness of the OP Merger shall be converted into a limited partnership interest in the Surviving L.P. representing 3% of the partnership interests therein, entitling the holder thereof to such rights, duties and obligations as are more fully set forth in the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Surviving L.P. All limited liability company interests in L.P. Merger Sub so converted shall cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist.
(b) If prior to the OP Effective Time, Parent L.P. or Company L.P., as the case may be, should split, combine or otherwise reclassify the Parent Class A Units or the Company L.P. Units, or pay a non-cash dividend or other non-cash distribution in Parent Class A Units, Parent Preferred Units or Company L.P. Units, as applicable, or make any other such non-cash dividend or non-cash distribution in interests of Parent L.P. or Company L.P. in respect of the Parent Class A Units or the Company L.P. Units, respectively, then any number or amount contained herein which is based upon the number of Parent Class A Units or Company L.P. Units, as the case may be, will be appropriately adjusted to reflect such split, combination, dividend or other distribution or change.
Section 1.10. Structure. The Company shall cooperate with Parent and agree to any reasonable changes requested by Parent regarding the structure of the transactions contemplated herein (such cooperation shall include entering into appropriate amendments to this Agreement) in order to enable Parent, Parent L.P. or Merger Sub to obtain a step up in the tax basis of the assets of the Company or any Company Subsidiary; provided that any such changes do not have an adverse effect on either the holders of the Company Common Shares or Company Common Units or jeopardize the intended qualifications of the REIT Merger as a taxable sale by the Company of all of the Companys assets to Merger Sub in exchange for the REIT Merger Consideration to be received by the shareholders of the Company and the assumption of all of the Companys liabilities, and the treatment of this Agreement as a plan of liquidation of the Company for federal income tax purposes pursuant to Section 331 of the Code. If the Closing occurs pursuant to Section 1.02(a), the execution of this Agreement shall constitute the adoption of a plan of liquidation of the Company pursuant to Section 331 of the Code.
Section 1.11. Election by Limited Partners in Company L.P. to Exercise the Exchange Right; The OP Merger. Notwithstanding any limitation or restriction contained in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement with respect to the right of a Limited Partner (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) to exercise the Exchange Right (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) (including, without limitation, any limitation or restriction contained in Section 8.05 of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement), every Limited Partner shall have the right to exercise the Exchange Right by submitting to Company L.P. (with a copy to the Company) during the period between the mailing date of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus for the Company Shareholders Meeting and 5:00 p.m., Eastern time, on the second business day prior to the date of the Company Shareholders Meeting a Notice of Exchange (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) specifying the number of Company Common Units which such Limited Partner desires to have exchanged pursuant to Section 8.05 of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement (as modified by this Section 1.11), which Notice of Exchange shall be conditioned upon the closing of the OP Merger and which Notice of Exchange may be conditioned on whether the REIT Merger occurs as contemplated by Section 1.01(a) or occurs as contemplated by Section 10.5; provided, that,
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(a) with respect to each Notice of Exchange (a copy of the form of which shall accompany or form a part of the form of election) properly submitted by a Limited Partner in accordance with this Section 1.11 (an Exercise), the Company shall elect in accordance with Section 8.05(b) of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement to purchase the Company Common Units relating to such Exercise by paying the REIT Shares Amount (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) and not the Cash Amount (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement);
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8.05(b) of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement, the Company shall not be required to notify the Exchanging Partner (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) of the Companys election to purchase the Company Common Units as described in the foregoing clause (a);
(c) The Specified Exchange Date (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) shall be the Closing Date (as defined herein) at a time prior to the consummation of the OP Merger; and
(d) Each Exchanging Partner shall be treated as an owner of the Company Common Shares issued pursuant to this Agreement at the REIT Effective Time.
ARTICLE II
Exchange of Securities
Section 2.01. Exchange Fund. On or prior to the Closing Date, Parent shall deposit with Computershare Limited or such other bank or trust company as Parent shall determine and which shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Company (the Exchange Agent), (i) in trust for the benefit of holders of Company Common Shares, for exchange in accordance with Section 1.07(a), all the cash and certificates evidencing Parent Common Shares to be paid or issued pursuant to this Agreement in exchange for outstanding Company Common Shares and cash sufficient to pay cash in lieu of fractional shares pursuant to Section 2.05, (ii) in trust for the benefit of holders of Company Series D Preferred Shares, for exchange in accordance with Section 1.07(e) all the certificates representing Parent Series E Preferred Shares, if any, to be issued pursuant to this Agreement in exchange for outstanding Company Series D Preferred Shares. Parent agrees to make available to the Exchange Agent from time to time as needed, cash sufficient to pay any dividends and other distributions pursuant to Section 2.03. Any cash and certificates of Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares deposited with the Exchange Agent shall hereinafter be referred to as the Exchange Fund.
Section 2.02. Exchange Procedures.
As promptly as practicable after the REIT Effective Time, the Exchange Agent will send to each record holder of Certificates other than Certificates to be canceled pursuant to Section 1.07(d): (i) a letter of transmittal (which shall specify that delivery shall be effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon delivery of the Certificates to the Exchange Agent and shall be in a form and have such other provisions as Parent may reasonably specify, subject to the Companys approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and (ii) instructions for use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates in exchange for the REIT Merger Consideration or the Parent Series E Preferred Shares, as the case may be. As soon as reasonably practicable after the REIT Effective Time: (i) each holder of a Certificate evidencing Company Common Shares, upon surrender of a Certificate to the Exchange Agent together with such letter of transmittal, duly executed, and such other documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent, shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor a certificate or certificates evidencing the number of full Parent Common Shares into which the aggregate number of Company Common Shares previously represented by such Certificate shall have been converted pursuant to this Agreement and the amount of cash that such holder is entitled to hereunder (including amounts to be paid pursuant to Section 1.07(a), in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares pursuant to Section 2.05 and in respect of any dividends or other distributions to which holders are entitled pursuant to Section 2.03), and (ii) each holder of a Certificate evidencing Company Series D Preferred Shares, upon surrender of a Certificate to the Exchange Agent together with such letter of transmittal, duly executed, and such other documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent, shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor a certificate or certificates evidencing the number of full
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Parent Series E Preferred Shares into which the aggregate number of Company Series D Common Shares previously represented by such Certificate shall have been converted pursuant to this Agreement. The Exchange Agent shall accept such Certificates upon compliance with such reasonable terms and conditions as the Exchange Agent may impose to effect an orderly exchange thereof in accordance with normal exchange practices. No interest will be paid or will accrue on any cash payable pursuant to Section 1.07, Section 2.03 or Section 2.05. In the event of a transfer of ownership of Company Common Shares which is not registered in the transfer records of the Company, one or more certificates of Parent Common Shares evidencing, in the aggregate, the proper number of Parent Common Shares, a check in the proper amount of cash pursuant to Section 1.07(a) and cash in lieu of any fractional Parent Common Shares pursuant to Section 2.05 and any dividends or other distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.03, may be issued with respect to such Company Common Shares to such a transferee if the Certificate representing such Company Common Shares is presented to the Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required to evidence and effect such transfer and to evidence that any applicable stock transfer taxes have been paid. In the event of a transfer of ownership of Company Series D Preferred Shares which is not registered in the transfer records of the Company, one or more certificates of Parent Series E Preferred Shares evidencing, in the aggregate, the proper number of Parent Series E Preferred Shares and any dividends or other distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.03 may be issued with respect to such Company Series D Preferred Share to such a transferee if the Certificate representing such Company Series D Preferred Shares is presented to the Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required to evidence and effect such transfer and to evidence that any applicable stock transfer taxes have been paid. Provision shall be made for holders of Certificates to procure in person immediately after the Effective Time a letter of transmittal and instructions and to deliver in person immediately after the Effective Time such letter of transmittal and Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares, as the case may be, in exchange for the REIT Merger Consideration or the Parent Series E Preferred Shares, as applicable, and cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares and dividends and distributions, if any, pursuant to Section 2.03.
Section 2.03. Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Securities.
(a) No dividends or other distributions declared or made with respect to Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares with a record date after the REIT Effective Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Certificate with respect to the Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares that such holder would be entitled to receive upon surrender of such Certificate and no cash payment in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares shall be paid to any such holder pursuant to Section 2.05 until such holder shall surrender such Certificate in accordance with Section 2.02.
(b) Subject to the effect of applicable Laws, following surrender of any such Certificate, there shall be paid to such holder of Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares issuable in exchange therefor, without interest, (a) promptly after the time of such surrender, the amount of any cash payable in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.05 and the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the REIT Effective Time theretofore paid with respect to such whole Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares, and (b) at the appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the REIT Effective Time but prior to such surrender and a payment date subsequent to such surrender payable with respect to such Parent Common Shares or Parent Series E Preferred Shares.
(c) Subject to the effect of applicable Laws, following the automatic conversion of Company Common Units in the OP Merger as provided in Section 1.09, there shall be paid to such holder of Parent Class A Units issuable in exchange therefor, without interest, (a) promptly after the time of such exchange, the amount of distributions with a record date after the OP Effective Time theretofore paid with respect to such Parent Class A Units, and (b) at the appropriate payment date, the amount of distributions with a record date after the OP Effective Time but prior to such exchange and a payment date subsequent to such exchange payable with respect to such Parent Class A Units.
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Section 2.04. No Further Ownership Rights in Company Common Shares, Company Series D Preferred Shares and Company Common Units.
(a) All Parent Common Shares issued and cash paid upon conversion of Company Common Shares in accordance with the terms of Article I and this Article II (including any cash paid pursuant to Section 1.07(a), 2.03 or 2.05) shall be deemed to have been issued or paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to the Company Common Shares.
(b) All Parent Series E Preferred Shares issued upon conversion of Company Series D Preferred Shares in accordance with the terms of Article I and this Article II (including any cash paid pursuant to Section 2.03) shall be deemed to have been issued or paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to the Company Series D Preferred Shares.
(c) The OP Merger Consideration issued upon conversion of Company Common Units in accordance with the terms of Article I shall be deemed to have been issued in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to such Company Common Units.
Section 2.05. No Fractional Shares.
(a) No fractional Parent Common Shares or certificates or scrip or Parent Common Shares evidencing fractional Parent Common Shares shall be issued upon the surrender for exchange of Certificates.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, each holder of Company Common Shares exchanged pursuant to the REIT Merger who would otherwise have been entitled to receive a fraction of a Parent Common Share (after taking into account all Certificates delivered by such holder) shall receive, in lieu thereof, cash (without interest) in an amount equal to the product of (i) such fractional part of a Parent Common Share multiplied by (ii) the Closing Date Market Price. As promptly as practicable after the determination of the amount of cash, if any, to be paid to holders of fractional interests, the Exchange Agent shall so notify Parent, and Parent shall cause the Exchange Agent to forward payments to such holders of fractional interests subject to and in accordance with the terms hereof.
Section 2.06. Termination of Exchange Fund. Any portion of the Exchange Fund which remains undistributed to the holders of Certificates for one year after the REIT Effective Time shall be delivered to the Surviving Company or otherwise on the instruction of the Surviving Company, and any holders of Certificates who have not theretofore complied with this Article II shall thereafter look only to the Surviving Company and Parent (subject to abandoned property, escheat or other similar laws) for (i) the REIT Merger Consideration with respect to Company Common Shares formerly represented thereby or the Parent Series E Preferred Shares with respect to the Company Series D Preferred Shares formerly represented thereby (as the case may be), in either case which such holders are entitled pursuant to Section 1.07, (ii) any cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares to which such holders are entitled pursuant to Section 2.05 and (iii) any dividends or distributions with respect to Parent Common Shares to which such holders are entitled pursuant to Section 2.03.
Section 2.07. No Liability. None of Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, L.P. Merger Sub, the Company, Company L.P. or the Exchange Agent shall be liable to any Person in respect of (i) any REIT Merger Consideration or Parent Series E Preferred Shares from the Exchange Fund or OP Merger Consideration, (ii) cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares pursuant to Section 2.05 or (iii) any dividends or distributions with respect to Parent Common Shares, Parent Class A Units or Parent Series E Preferred Shares pursuant to Section 2.03 delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
Section 2.08. Investment of the Exchange Fund. Any funds included in the Exchange Fund may be invested by the Exchange Agent, as directed by Parent; provided that such investments shall be in obligations of or guaranteed by the United States of America or backed by the full faith and credit of the United States of America; provided, further, that no such investment or loss thereon shall affect the amounts payable or the timing of the amounts payable to the Company shareholders pursuant to the other provisions of this Article II. Any interest and other income resulting from such investments shall promptly be paid to or at the discretion of Parent.
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Section 2.09. Lost Certificates. If any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the Person claiming such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and, if required by the Surviving Company, the posting by such Person of a bond in such reasonable amount as the Surviving Company may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against it with respect to such Certificate or other documentation (including an indemnity in customary form) reasonably requested by Parent, the Exchange Agent will deliver in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the applicable REIT Merger Consideration or Parent Series E Preferred Shares with respect to the Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares formerly evidenced thereby, any cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares, and unpaid dividends and distributions on Parent Common Shares or Parent Series D Preferred Shares deliverable in respect thereof, all pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 2.10. Withholding Rights. Each of the Surviving Company, the Surviving L.P., Parent and Parent L.P. shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the consideration otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement to any holder of Company Common Shares, any holder of Company Common Units and any holder of Company Options such amounts as it is required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making of such payment under the Code and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any provision of state, local or foreign tax law. To the extent that amounts are so withheld by the Surviving Company, the Surviving L.P., Parent or Parent L.P., as the case may be, and paid to the appropriate taxing authority, such withheld amounts shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to the holder of Company Common Shares, Company Common Units or Company Options, as the case may be, in respect of which such deduction and withholding was made by the Surviving Company, the Surviving L.P., Parent or Parent L.P., as the case may be.
Section 2.11. Further Assurances.
(a) At and after the REIT Effective Time, the officers of the Surviving Company will be authorized to execute and deliver, in the name and on behalf of the Company or Merger Sub, any deeds, bills of sale, assignments or assurances and to take and do, in the name and on behalf of the Company or Merger Sub, any other actions and things to vest, perfect or confirm of record or otherwise in the Surviving Company any and all right, title and interest in, to and under any of the rights, properties or assets acquired or to be acquired by the Surviving Company as a result of, or in connection with, the REIT Merger.
(b) At and after the OP Effective Time, Company G.P., as the general partner of Company L.P., and the officers of Company L.P. will be authorized to execute and deliver, in the name and on behalf of Company L.P. or L.P. Merger Sub, any deeds, bills of sale, assignments or assurances and to take and do, in the name and on behalf of Company L.P. or L.P. Merger Sub, any other actions and things to vest, perfect or confirm of record or otherwise in Company L.P. any and all right, title and interest in, to and under any of the rights, properties or assets acquired or to be acquired by Company L.P. as a result of, or in connection with, the OP Merger.
Section 2.12. Share Transfer Books.
(a) At the close of business, New York time, on the day the REIT Effective Time occurs, the share transfer books of the Company shall be closed and there shall be no further registration of transfers of Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares on the records of the Company. From and after the REIT Effective Time, the holders of Certificates shall cease to have any rights with respect to such Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares, except as otherwise provided herein or by Law. On or after the REIT Effective Time, any Certificates presented to the Exchange Agent, the Surviving Company or Parent for any reason shall be exchanged for the REIT Merger Consideration or Parent Series E Preferred Shares into which such Company Common Shares or Company Series D Preferred Shares have been converted, any cash in lieu of fractional Parent Common Shares to which the holders thereof are entitled pursuant to Section 2.05 and any dividends or other distributions to which the holders thereof are entitled pursuant to Section 2.03.
(b) At the close of business, New York time, on the day the OP Effective Time occurs, the transfer books of Company L.P. shall be closed and there shall be no further registration of transfers of Company L.P. Units thereafter on the records of Company L.P. (except as approved by Parent or Parent
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L.P.). From and after the OP Effective Time, the holders of Company L.P. Units shall cease to have any rights with respect to such Company L.P. Units, except as otherwise provided herein or by Law. On or after the OP Effective Time, any Company Common Units presented to Company L.P. or Parent L.P. for any reason shall be converted into the OP Merger Consideration. This Section shall not apply to Company L.P. Units owned or held by Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, Company G.P., Company L.P. or any of their respective direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiaries immediately after the OP Effective Time.
ARTICLE III
Representations and Warranties of the Company and Company L.P.
As an inducement to Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and L.P. Merger Sub to enter into this Agreement, except as disclosed in a section of the Company Disclosure Letter corresponding to the section of this Article III to which such disclosure applies, each of the Company and Company L.P. hereby jointly and severally represents and warrants to Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and L.P. Merger Sub as follows:
Section 3.01. Organization, Standing and Power of the Company. The Company is a real estate investment trust duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland and has the requisite real estate investment trust power, authority and all necessary government approvals or licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such real estate investment trust power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect. The Company is duly qualified or licensed to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the nature of the business it is conducting, or the ownership, operation or leasing of its properties or the management of properties for others makes such qualification or licensing necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified or licensed or in good standing would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect. The Company has heretofore made available to Parent complete and correct copies of the Charter and bylaws in each case, as currently in effect (the Company Organizational Documents). The Company Organizational Documents are in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
Section 3.02. Company Subsidiaries.
(a) Each Company Subsidiary that is a corporation is duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation and has the requisite corporate power, authority and all necessary government approvals and licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such corporate power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect. All outstanding shares of stock of each Company Subsidiary that is a corporation have been duly authorized, are validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, and are not subject to any rights of first offer, rights of first refusal, tag-along rights or any other preemptive rights and are, except as disclosed in Section 3.02(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter, (i) 100% owned by the Company and/or another Company Subsidiary and (ii) owned free and clear of all Encumbrances, preemptive rights, call rights, assessments or other adverse interests of any kind or nature whatsoever.
(b) Each Company Subsidiary that is a partnership, limited liability company, trust or other entity (including, without limitation, Company L.P.) is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of organization and has the requisite power, authority and all necessary government approvals and licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect. The Company has heretofore made available to Parent complete and correct copies of the Company L.P.s limited partnership agreement, as currently in effect which limited partnership agreement is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
(c) Each Company Subsidiary is duly qualified or licensed to do business and is, where applicable, in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or the ownership, operation or leasing of its properties or the management of properties for others makes such qualification or licensing necessary,
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except where the failure to be so qualified or licensed or in good standing would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 3.02(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no outstanding options, warrants or other rights to acquire ownership interests from or with respect to any Company Subsidiary. The Company has heretofore made available to Parent complete and correct copies of the charter, by-laws, partnership agreements, operating agreements or other organizational documents of each of the Company Subsidiaries, each as amended to date, and each such instrument or agreement is in full force and effect as of the date hereof. Section 3.02(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter sets forth (i) all Company Subsidiaries and their respective jurisdictions of incorporation or organization, and (ii) each owner and the respective amount of such owners equity interest in each Company Subsidiary. Except as set forth in Section 3.02(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company does not directly or indirectly own any equity or similar interests in any other Person, or any interest convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any equity or similar interests in any other Person.
Section 3.03. Authority; No Violations; Consents and Approval.
(a) The Company and Company L.P. each has all requisite real estate investment trust or partnership power and authority to enter into this Agreement and each of the other Transaction Documents and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, subject, with respect to the consummation of the REIT Merger and the Prudential Asset Sale, to receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of all votes entitled to be cast on the REIT Merger and the Prudential Asset Sale (the Required Company Vote) and the acceptance for record of the Articles of Merger by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland, and the acceptance for filing of the OP Merger Certificate by the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Each Company Subsidiary that is a party to any Transaction Document has all requisite power and authority to enter into such Transaction Document and to consummate the transactions contemplated thereby. The execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of the Company and each applicable Company Subsidiary, subject, with respect to the consummation of the REIT Merger and the Prudential Asset Sale, to receipt of the Required Company Vote. The Transaction Documents have been duly executed and delivered by the Company and each applicable Company Subsidiary and constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of the Company and each applicable Company Subsidiary, and assuming they are binding obligations of Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and L.P. Merger Sub in accordance with their terms, are enforceable against the Company and each Company Subsidiary in accordance with their terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and other Laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and by general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at Law).
(b) Except as set forth in Section 3.03(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents by the Company and each applicable Company Subsidiary do not, and, after obtaining the Required Company Vote, the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, and compliance with the provisions hereof or thereof, will not, conflict with, or result in any violation of, or default (with or without notice or lapse of time, or both) under, or give rise to a right of termination, cancellation or acceleration of any material obligation, or the material loss of a benefit under, or give rise to a right of purchase, first offer or forced sale, under, or result in the creation of any Encumbrance upon any of the properties or assets of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries under any provision of:
(i) the Company Organizational Documents or the comparable charter or organizational documents (including any operating agreement or limited partnership agreement) of any Company Subsidiary;
(ii) any Contract applicable to the Company or any Company Subsidiary, or their respective properties or assets or any guarantee by the Company or any Company Subsidiary of any of the foregoing, it being understood that no representation is being given as to whether the Surviving Company, the Surviving L.P. and their Subsidiaries will be in compliance with any financial covenants contained therein following the Mergers; or
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(iii) assuming the consents, approvals, authorizations, permits and filings or notifications referred to in Section 3.03(d) are duly and timely obtained or made and the Required Company Vote and Required Parent Vote each have been obtained, any judgment, order, decree, statute, Law, ordinance, rule or regulation applicable to the Company or any Company Subsidiary, or any of their respective properties or assets;
except as to clauses (ii) and (iii) as would not, individually or in the aggregate, cause a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Except as set forth on Section 3.03(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter, without limiting the generality of Section 3.03(b), the transactions contemplated herein do not violate any provision regarding direct or indirect transfers of interests in any Company Subsidiary that are set forth in any agreement relating to the operation of, or the ownership of interests in, any Company Subsidiary, even if such transactions result in a termination under Section 708 of the Code of any Company Subsidiary.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 3.03(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, no consent, approval, order or authorization of, or registration, declaration or filing with, or permit from, any Governmental Entity, is required by or on behalf of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries in connection with the execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents by the Company and each of the applicable Company Subsidiaries or the consummation by the Company or the applicable Company Subsidiaries of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, except for:
(i) as to the REIT Merger, the filing of the Articles of Merger with the Department of Assessment and Taxation of the State of Maryland, and as to the OP Merger, the filing of the OP Merger Certificate with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware;
(ii) a proxy statement relating to the Required Company Vote (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the Company Proxy Statement) and the Registration Statement (as defined below);
(iii) rules and regulations of the NYSE;
(iv) such reports under Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), as may be required in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
(v) such filings and approvals as are required to be made or obtained under the securities or Blue Sky laws of various states in connection with the issuance of Parent Common Shares and Parent Class A Units pursuant to this Agreement; and
(vi) such other consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations, declarations, filings or permits that (1) may be required in connection with the payment of any transfer and gains taxes or under federal, state or local environmental laws or (2) the failure to obtain or make, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.04. Capital Structure.
(a) The Company is authorized to issue 120,000,000 shares of beneficial interest, consisting of 100,000,000 Company Common Shares and 20,000,000 preferred shares of beneficial interest, par value of $.01 per share (the Company Preferred Shares), of which 1,000,000 have been designated Junior Participating Cumulative Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest and 3,773,585 shares have been designated as Series D Cumulative Convertible Redeemable Preferred Shares of Beneficial Interest (Company Series D Preferred Shares). As of the date hereof, (i) 46,328,782 Company Common Shares (excluding shares held by the Company but including Common Shares held by the Company in trust or otherwise designated for the participants in and beneficiaries of the Company Deferred Compensation Plans) were issued and outstanding, (ii) 2,823,583 Company Series D Preferred Shares were issued and outstanding; (iii) 2,823,583 Company Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon conversion of the Company Series D Preferred Shares, (iv) 3,233,553 Company Common Shares were held by the Company, (v) 5,455,186 Company Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon exercise of Company Options issued and outstanding pursuant to Company Incentive Plans, (vi) 1,594,814 Company Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon exercise of
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Company Options available for future grant pursuant to Company Incentive Plans (but, for the sake of clarity, no such Options will be awarded without Parents consent) and (vii) 1,797,479 Company Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon exchange of Company Common Units. The conversion price per share of the Company Series D Preferred Shares is $26.50 and the quarterly dividend rate per share of the Company Series D Preferred Shares is $0.56.
(b) To the Knowledge of the Company, the issuance and sale of the issued and outstanding shares of beneficial interest described in this Section 3.04 have been made in compliance in all material respects with United States federal and state securities Laws. Section 3.04(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter accurately sets forth as of the date hereof the names of all holders of options or rights to purchase the Companys shares of beneficial interest (including but not limited to Company Options) and the number and type of shares issuable upon exercise of such options, the exercise price and vesting schedule with respect thereto. Except as set forth in Section 3.04(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter, neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary has agreed to register any securities under the Securities Act or under any state securities Law or granted registration rights to any Person, and complete and correct copies of any such agreements have previously been made available to Parent. Except as set forth in Section 3.04(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof, there are no outstanding share or stock-appreciation rights, security-based performance units, phantom stock or other security rights or other agreements, arrangements or commitments of any character (contingent or otherwise) pursuant to which any Person is or may be entitled to receive any payment or other value based on the revenues, earnings or financial performance, share or stock price performance or other attribute of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or assets or calculated in accordance therewith.
(c) (i) As of the date hereof, the issued and outstanding partnership interests of Company L.P. consist of (A) 47,152 units of general partner interest (the Company GP Units), all of which are owned by Prentiss Properties I, Inc., a Delaware corporation (Company G.P.), a wholly owned Subsidiary of the Company and (B) 48,079,109 common units of limited partner interest (Company Common Units) of which 46,281,630 Common Units are owned by the Company and Company G.P.
(ii) Company G.P. is a wholly owned Subsidiary of the Company and is the sole general partner of Company L.P. and as of the date hereof holds Company GP Units representing 100% of the outstanding Company GP Units. Section 3.04(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter sets forth the name of each partner and the number of Company Common Units held by such partner in Company L.P.
(iii) Each Company Common Unit may, under certain circumstances and subject to certain conditions set forth in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement, be exchanged into Company Common Shares on a one-for-one basis. To the Knowledge of the Company, as of the date hereof, no notice has been received by the Company or Company L.P. of the exercise of any of the rights set forth in this Section 3.04(c)(iii), which are not reflected in this Section. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, except as otherwise restricted pursuant to the Voting Agreements for certain holders, the holders of Company Common Units may at any time and from time to time prior to the REIT Effective Time convert such interests into Company Common Shares.
(d) Except as set forth in Sections 3.04(a) or (c) hereof or in Section 3.04(b) or 3.04(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof there are issued and outstanding or reserved for issuance: (i) no Company Common Shares or other shares of beneficial interest, Voting Debt or other voting securities of the Company; (ii) no restricted Company Common Shares or other shares of beneficial interest, capital stock or equity interests of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, performance share awards or dividend equivalent rights relating to the equity interests of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, (iii) no securities of the Company or any Company Subsidiary or securities or assets of any other entity convertible into or exchangeable for Company Common Shares, other shares of beneficial interest, Voting Debt or other voting securities of the Company or any Company Subsidiary; and (iv) no subscriptions, options, warrants, conversion rights, share appreciation rights, calls, claims, rights of first refusal, rights (including preemptive rights), commitments, arrangements or agreements to which the Company or any Company Subsidiary is a party or by which it is bound in any case obligating the Company or any Company Subsidiary to issue, deliver, sell, purchase, redeem or acquire, or cause to be issued, delivered, sold, purchased, redeemed or
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acquired, additional Company Common Shares, other shares of beneficial interest or stock, Voting Debt or other voting securities of the Company or of any Company Subsidiary, or obligating the Company or any Company Subsidiary to grant, extend or enter into any such subscription, option, warrant, conversion right, share appreciation right, call, right, commitment, arrangement or agreement. All outstanding shares of beneficial interest or capital stock of the Company and each Company Subsidiary (including Company L.P.) are, and all shares reserved for issuance will be, upon issuance in accordance with the terms specified in the instruments or agreements pursuant to which they are issuable, duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and, with respect to Company Subsidiaries that are corporations, nonassessable and not subject to or issued in violation of, any preemptive right, purchase option, call option, right of first refusal, subscription or any other similar right or Encumbrance and with respect to each Company Subsidiary, 100% owned by the Company and/or another Company Subsidiary except as disclosed in Section 3.04(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter.
(e) Except as disclosed in the Company SEC Documents, all dividends or distributions on securities of the Company or any Company Subsidiary that have been declared or authorized prior to the date of this Agreement have been paid in full (except to the extent such dividends have been publicly announced and are not yet due and payable).
(f) Except for the Transaction Documents, except as set forth in Section 3.04(f) of the Company Disclosure Letter and except as disclosed in the Company SEC Documents, to the Knowledge of the Company, there are not any (i) shareholder agreements, voting trusts, proxies or other agreements or understandings relating to the voting of any shares of beneficial interest or stock of the Company or any Company Subsidiary or (ii) agreements or understandings relating to the sale or transfer (including agreements imposing transfer restrictions) of any Company Common Shares or Company Preferred Shares or any ownership interests in any Company Subsidiary, to which the Company or any Company Subsidiary is a party or by which it is bound. Except as set forth in Section 3.04(f) of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no restrictions on the Companys ability to vote the equity interests of any of the Company Subsidiaries.
(g) Except as set forth in Section 3.04(g) of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no Company Subsidiaries (other than Company L.P.) in which any officer, trustee or director of the Company or any Company Subsidiary owns any shares of beneficial interest, stock or other securities. To the Knowledge of the Company, as of the date hereof, there are no agreements or understandings between the Company or any Company Subsidiary and any Person that could cause such Person to be treated as holding any shares of beneficial interest, stock or security in the Company or any Company Subsidiary as an agent for, or nominee of, the Company or any Company Subsidiary.
Section 3.05. Vote Required. The Required Company Vote is the only vote of the holders of any class or series of the Companys or the Company Subsidiaries shares of beneficial interest or capital stock necessary to approve this Agreement, the REIT Merger, the Prudential Asset Sale and the OP Merger.
Section 3.06. SEC Documents.
(a) The Company has filed with the SEC, and has heretofore made available to Parent (by public filing with the SEC or otherwise) true and complete copies of, all reports, schedules, forms, statements and other documents required to be filed with the SEC by the Company since December 31, 2001 (collectively, the Company SEC Documents). The Company does not have any outstanding and unresolved comments from the SEC with respect to any of the Company SEC Documents. None of the Company SEC Documents is the subject of any confidential treatment request by the Company.
(b) As of its respective date, each Company SEC Document complied in all material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act or the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), as the case may be, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the Sarbanes-Oxley Act), as and to the extent applicable thereto, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder applicable to such Company SEC Document. Except to the extent that information contained in any Company SEC Document filed and publicly available prior to the date of this Agreement has been revised or superseded by a later filed Company SEC Document, which later filed Company SEC Document was filed prior to the date of this Agreement, none of the Company SEC Documents at the time of filing contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements
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therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The financial statements of the Company included in the Company SEC Documents comply as to form in all material respects with applicable accounting requirements and the published rules and regulations of the SEC with respect thereto, have been prepared in accordance with GAAP (except, in the case of unaudited statements, and to the extent as permitted by Form 10-Q of the SEC) applied on a consistent basis during the periods involved (except as and to the extent may be indicated in the notes thereto) and fairly present the financial position of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries as of the dates thereof and the results of its operations and cash flows for the periods shown (subject, in the case of unaudited statements, to normal year-end audit adjustments).
(c) The management of the Company has (i) implemented disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act) to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to the management of the Company by others within those entities, and (ii) has disclosed, based on its most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act), to the Companys outside auditors and the audit committee of the Company Board (A) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Companys ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information and (B) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Section 3.07. Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Except as and to the extent disclosed in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or as disclosed in Section 3.07 of the Company Disclosure Letter or as otherwise permitted pursuant to this Agreement to occur after the date hereof, since December 31, 2004, the Company and the Company Subsidiaries have conducted their business only in the ordinary course and there has not been:
(a) other than (x) as permitted pursuant to Section 6.11 or for dividends from a wholly owned Subsidiary to its parent entity or (y) for distributions pursuant to the joint venture agreements or other documents identified on Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter, any declaration, setting aside or payment of any dividends on, or any other distributions in respect of, any of their shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Company L.P. Units;
(b) any amendment of any term of any material outstanding debt or equity security of the Company or any Company Subsidiary other than in the ordinary course of business;
(c) any split, combination or reclassification of any Company Common Shares or the stock of any Company Subsidiary (other than the stock of Subsidiaries wholly-owned, directly or indirectly, by the Company), or any issuance or the authorization of any issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for, or giving the right to acquire by exchange or exercise, shares of stock or any ownership interest in, the Company or any Company Subsidiary other than in connection with (1) the conversion, redemption or exchange of the Company Series D Preferred Shares or Company L.P. Units in accordance with their terms, (2) the exercise of Company Options in accordance with their terms or (3) any dividend reinvestment or share purchase program;
(d) any material change in accounting methods, principles or practices of the Company or Company Subsidiaries, except as may be required by a change in industry practice, Law, GAAP or by a Governmental Entity;
(e) to the Knowledge of the Company, any amendment of any employment, consulting, severance, incentive stock, stock option, deferred compensation, bonus, retirement, retention or any other agreement, or the adoption of any new such agreement, between (i) the Company or any Company Subsidiary, on the one hand and (ii) any officer, trustee or director of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, on the other hand, earning more than $150,000 per year; other than as required by any contract, agreement or Company Employee Benefit Plan;
(f) any change in the lines of business in which the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries participates or is engaged;
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(g) any direct or indirect acquisition (whether through merger or consolidation with, the purchase of a substantial equity interest in, the purchase of a substantial portion of the assets of, or otherwise) any business or any corporation, partnership, association or other business organization or a division thereof or any significant assets other than in the ordinary course of business in an amount not involving more than $1,000,000 individually or $5,000,000 in the aggregate or as otherwise specified in the Company Corporate Budget;
(h) any incurrence of indebtedness for borrowed money or guarantee for such indebtedness, in each case by the Company or any Company Subsidiary, other than to meet (i) the current cash needs of the Company and Company Subsidiaries not exceeding the amount contemplated by the Company Corporate Budget for such period, a copy of which has been previously provided to Parent, (ii) for projects currently under construction in amounts disclosed in the Company Corporate Budget and (iii) as needed for the conversion, redemption or exchange of Company Series D Preferred Shares or Company L.P. Units in accordance with their terms;
(i) any change, event, effect, damage, destruction or loss relating to the business or operations of the Company or any Company Subsidiary that has had a Company Material Adverse Effect; or
(j) any Contract, commitment or arrangement to do or engage in any action the consummation of which would effect any of the events listed in this Section 3.07.
Section 3.08. Environmental Matters. Except as disclosed in Section 3.08 of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect:
(a) The Company has not received written notice that any judicial, administrative or compliance order has been issued, any unresolved complaint has been filed, any unpaid penalty has been assessed, or that any investigation or review is pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened by any Governmental Entity with respect to any alleged failure by the Company or any Company Subsidiary to comply with any Environmental Law;
(b) To the Knowledge of the Company, neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary nor, any previous owner or lessee of any property currently owned, operated or leased by the Company or any Company Subsidiary, has used, generated, stored, treated or handled any Hazardous Material in a manner that would reasonably be expected to result in liability under Environmental Laws. In addition, to the Companys Knowledge: (i) there are no asbestos-containing materials or Microbial Matter present on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by the Company or any Company Subsidiary not in compliance with applicable Law, (ii) there are no PCBs present on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by the Company or any Company Subsidiary not in compliance with applicable Law, (iii) there are no environmental conditions, including without limitation any wetlands or endangered species, that will impede use of the Company Properties as currently used, and (iv) there are currently no leaking underground storage tanks, active or abandoned, used for the storage of Hazardous Materials on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by the Company or any Company Subsidiary;
(c) The Company and the Company Subsidiaries have not received notice of any unresolved claim, investigation, litigation, proceeding, notice of violation, complaint, or request for information, to the effect that it is or may be liable to a Third Party, including a Governmental Entity, as a result of a violation of any Environmental Law or a Release or threatened Release of a Hazardous Material at any property currently or formerly owned, leased or operated by the Company or a Company Subsidiary;
(d) To the Knowledge of the Company, the Company and the Company Subsidiaries have not transported or arranged for the transportation of any Hazardous Material to any location which is the subject of any action, suit or proceeding that would be reasonably expected to result in claims against the Company or any Company Subsidiary related to such Hazardous Material;
(e) There are no Encumbrances threatened or attached to any Company Property arising under or pursuant to any applicable Environmental Law, and no action of any Governmental Entity has been taken or,
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to the Knowledge of the Company, is in process which could subject any of such properties to such Encumbrances;
(f) Neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary has in its possession or control or knows of the existence of any environmental assessment or investigation reports or environmental testing results relating to Microbial Matter prepared within the last four years that have not been made available to Parent prior to the execution of this Agreement;
(g) To the Knowledge of the Company, each of the Company Properties and operations conducted thereon is in compliance in all material respects with all Environmental Laws and the Company and all Company Subsidiaries are in compliance in all material respects with all Environmental Laws applicable to any of their owned or leased properties;
(h) To the Knowledge of the Company, there has been no Release or threatened Release of Hazardous Material in violation of any Environmental Law or which would reasonably be expected to result in liability on any property owned, leased or operated by the Company or any Company Subsidiary; and
(i) There are no claims pending relating to alleged personal injury attributable to air quality or Microbial Matter at the Company Properties. To the Knowledge of the Company, there have been no indications of improper design or construction of any structure at the Company Properties or any system contained therein that has led or would reasonably be expected to lead to the growth of Microbial Matter. The Company is not subject to any material capital expenditures or material obligations (contractual or otherwise) arising under or relating to Environmental Laws.
Section 3.09. Properties.
(a) Except as described in Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company or a Company Property Owner owns fee simple title to each of the real properties (or the applicable portion thereof) listed on Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter as being owned in fee (collectively, the Company Owned Properties). Except as described in Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company or a Company Property Owner has a valid leasehold interest in each of the real properties (or the applicable portion thereof) listed on Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter as being ground leased or subleased (together with the Company Owned Properties, collectively, the Company Properties) pursuant to those certain ground leases or subleases (together with any amendments thereto, collectively, the Company Ground Leases) described on Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter. The Company Properties are all of the real properties owned or leased by Company and the Company Property Owners. To the Knowledge of the Company, the interests of the Company and the Company Property Owners in the Company Properties are good and insurable and the same are owned free and clear of Encumbrances except for (i) indebtedness for money borrowed and other matters specifically identified in Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter with reference to the particular property affected thereby, (ii) inchoate Encumbrances imposed for construction work in progress, including mechanics liens, workers or repairmens liens, or otherwise incurred in the ordinary course of business that do not adversely affect in any material respects the use or operation of the applicable Company Property, (iii) easement agreements disclosed and all other matters disclosed on the existing title policies which were previously provided (or made available) to Parent (a list of all of which title policies is included in Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter) (Existing Company Title Policies), (iv) matters as would be disclosed on current title reports or surveys that arise in the ordinary course and do not materially and adversely affect the value, use or operation of the applicable Company Property (restrictive covenants in forms generally created for office parks of the types or which Company Properties are located shall be deemed Permitted Company Encumbrances), (v) matters disclosed in Section 3.09(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter with reference to the particular property affected thereby, (vi) real estate Taxes and special assessments not yet delinquent (except as is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which a reserve in accordance with GAAP has been set forth on the books of the Company or a Company Property Owner, as applicable), (vii) Space Leases and (viii) in the case of a Company Property Owner identified in Section 3.17(e) as a joint venture in which a Company Subsidiary holds an ownership interest, the interest of the other member or partner in such Company Property Owner, as and to the extent such interest is disclosed in Section 3.17(e) of the Company
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Disclosure Letter (the matters in clauses (i) through (viii), inclusive, the Permitted Company Encumbrances) and (ix) Encumbrances being contested in good faith in the ordinary course of business.
(b) Except as listed in Section 3.09(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter or Existing Company Title Policies or which would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect, the Company Properties are not subject to any rights of way, restrictive covenants, written agreements, Laws, ordinances and regulations affecting building use, parking or occupancy, or reservations of an interest in title (including, without limitation, reciprocal easement and operating easement agreements) (collectively, Company Property Restrictions), except for (i) Company Property Restrictions imposed or promulgated by Law with respect to real property, including zoning regulations and (ii) Permitted Company Encumbrances. Except as listed in Section 3.09(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter or which would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of the Company, (i) each Company Property complies with the Company Property Restrictions, (ii) neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner, nor, to the Knowledge of the Company, any other party, is currently in default or violation of any Company Property Restriction and (iii) no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default thereunder.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 3.09(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter, (i) valid policies of title insurance or marked up title commitments have been issued insuring the Companys or a Company Property Owners fee simple title or leasehold estate to each of the Company Properties in amounts at least equal to the purchase price paid for the applicable Company Property and, to the Knowledge of the Company, such policies are in full force and effect and (ii) no material claim has been made against any such policies.
(d) Except as listed in Section 3.09(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of the Company, there is no certificate, permit or license from any Governmental Entity having jurisdiction over any of the Company Properties or any agreement, easement or any other right which is necessary to permit the current use and operation of the buildings and improvements on any of the Company Properties or which is necessary to permit the current use and operation of all driveways, roads and other means of egress and ingress to and from any of the Company Properties or which govern the use and operation of the Company Properties (collectively, the Company Property Agreements) that has not been obtained and is not in full force and effect, or any pending threat of modification or cancellation of any of same. Except as listed in Section 3.09(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect, (i) neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner, nor to the Knowledge of the Company, any other party, is currently in default or violation of any Company Property Agreement and (ii) to the Knowledge of the Company, no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default or violation thereunder.
(e) Except as listed in Section 3.09(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect, neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner has received written notice of any violation of any federal, state or municipal Law, ordinance, order, regulation or requirement affecting any portion of any of the Company Properties issued by any Governmental Entity that has not been heretofore remedied.
(f) Except as listed in Sections 3.09(f) and 3.13 of the Company Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect, the Company has not received notice of any, (i) condemnation or rezoning or proceedings that are pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened with respect to any portion of any of the Company Properties; or (ii) to the Knowledge of the Company, violation of zoning, building, land-use, fire, safety and signage or other applicable Laws (including, without limitation, to the Knowledge of the Company, the Americans With Disabilities Act) or orders that are presently being violated or will be violated by the continued maintenance, operation or use of any buildings or other improvements on any of the Company Properties or by the continued maintenance, operation or use of the parking areas.
(g) Except as listed in Section 3.09(g) of the Company Disclosure Letter, neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner is currently obligated under any option, right of first refusal or other
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contractual right to sell, dispose of any of the Company Properties or any material portion thereof or material interest therein to any Person other than Merger Sub.
(h) Each Company Ground Lease is valid, binding and enforceable against the Company (or any Company Property Owner, as applicable) and, to the Knowledge of the Company, the other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, and is in full force and effect. Except as listed in Section 3.09(h) of the Company Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect, (i) the Company has performed in all material respects all material obligations required to be performed by it to date under each of the Company Ground Leases and (ii) neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner, nor to the Knowledge of the Company, any other party, is in default under any Company Ground Lease (and no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute such a default). The Company has delivered (or made available) to Parent a true, correct and complete copy of each Company Ground Lease and all amendments thereto. No option has been exercised under any of such Company Ground Leases, except options whose exercise has been evidenced by a written document as described in Section 3.09(h) of the Company Disclosure Letter, a true, complete and accurate copy of which has been delivered to Parent with the corresponding Company Ground Lease.
(i) The rent rolls for each of the Company Properties as of September 30, 2005, copies of which dated September 30, 2005 were delivered to Parent (collectively, the Rent Roll) have been provided or made available to Parent. Except as disclosed in Section 3.09(i) of the Company Disclosure Letter and for discrepancies that, either individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of the Company, the information set forth in the Rent Roll is true, correct and complete as of the date thereof. Except as disclosed in Section 3.09(i) of the Company Disclosure Letter (i) to the Knowledge of the Company, neither the Company nor any Company Property Owner is in any monetary default under any Space Lease which default or defaults, individually or in the aggregate, would result in a Company Material Adverse Effect and (ii) neither a Company Property Owner nor the Company has received written notice or a copy of a notice from any tenant under any Space Lease claiming that the Company or the applicable Company Property Owner is currently in default under its obligations as landlord under any such lease which monetary default or defaults would result in a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(j) To the Knowledge of the Company, the Company and each of the Company Property Owners have good and sufficient title to, or are permitted to use under valid and existing leases, personal and non-real properties and assets sufficient for the conduct and operation of their respective businesses and properties.
(k) Section 3.09(k) of the Company Disclosure Letter identifies the Company Properties that consist of or include undeveloped land and any Company Properties that are in the process of being developed, expanded or rehabilitated or that are being held for future development (each such Company Property, a Company Development Property) and a brief description of the development, expansion or rehabilitation being carried out by or on behalf of the Company or a Company Property Owner or intended by the Company or a Company Property Owner to be carried out or completed thereon (collectively, the Projects), including the budget and development, expansion or rehabilitation schedule therefor prepared as of respective dates thereof by or for the Company or Company Property Owner (collectively, the Development Budget and Schedule). In the case of each Project, the implementation of which has been commenced as of the date hereof, the costs or expenses incurred in connection with such Project and the progress thereof are consistent in all material respects with the Development Budget and Schedule applicable thereto, as modified from time to time.
Section 3.10. No Undisclosed Material Liabilities. Except as set forth in Section 3.10 of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no liabilities or obligations of the Company or any Subsidiary thereof of any kind whatsoever, whether accrued, contingent, absolute, determined, determinable or otherwise, and there is no existing condition, situation or set of circumstances that would be reasonably expected to result in such a liability or obligation, other than (i) liabilities or obligations disclosed and provided for in the consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of June 30, 2005 included in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or referred to in the notes thereto; (ii) liabilities or obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice since June 30, 2005; and (iii) liabilities or
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obligations which, in case of (i), (ii) and (iii), would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.11. No Default. Except as set forth in Section 3.11 of the Company Disclosure Letter, neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries is in default or violation (and to the Knowledge of the Company no event has occurred which, with notice or the lapse of time or both, would constitute a default or violation) of any term, condition or provision of:
(a) the Company Organizational Documents or the comparable charter or organizational documents (including any operating agreement or limited partnership agreement) of any of the Company Subsidiaries, or
(b) any Contract applicable to the Company or any Company Subsidiary or their respective properties or assets or any guarantee by the Company or any Company Subsidiary of any of the foregoing; except, in the case of clause (b), for defaults and violations which, individually or in the aggregate, have not constituted and would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Company Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.12. Compliance with Applicable Laws. The Company and the Company Subsidiaries hold, and are in compliance with, all permits, licenses, certificates, registrations, variances, exemptions, orders, franchises and approvals of all Governmental Entities necessary for the lawful conduct of their respective businesses (the Company Permits), except where the failure so to hold or be in compliance, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect. All applications required to have been filed for the renewal of the Company Permits have been duly filed on a timely basis with the appropriate Governmental Entities, and all other filings required to have been made with respect to such Company Permits have been duly made on a timely basis with the appropriate Governmental Entities, except for failures to file which, individually or in the aggregate, have not constituted and would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Company Material Adverse Effect. Except as disclosed in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement and as, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Company Material Adverse Effect, the businesses of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries are not being conducted in violation of any Law.
Section 3.13. Litigation. Except as set forth in Section 3.13 of the Company Disclosure Letter or the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, and other than bodily injury and other tort litigation arising from the ordinary course of operations of Company and the Company Subsidiaries (a) which are substantially covered by insurance or (b) for which all material costs and liabilities arising therefrom are reimbursable pursuant to common area maintenance or similar agreements, there is no action, order, writ, injunction, judgment or decree outstanding or claim, suit, litigation, proceeding, arbitration, investigation or inquiry by or before any court, governmental or other regulatory or administrative agency or commission or any other Person instituted, pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened, in each case against the Company or any Company Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties or assets that would cause a Company Material Adverse Effect, nor is there any outstanding judgment, decree or injunction, in each case against the Company or any Company Subsidiaries, or any order of any Governmental Entity applicable to the Company or any Company Subsidiary that would cause a Company Material Adverse Effect. To the Knowledge of the Company, there are no SEC inquiries or investigations, other governmental inquiries or investigations or internal investigations pending or threatened, in each case regarding any accounting practices of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or any malfeasance by any executive officer of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
Section 3.14. Taxes. Except as set forth in Section 3.14 of the Company Disclosure Letter:
(a) The Company and each Company Subsidiary has (i) timely and duly filed with the appropriate Governmental Entities all material Tax Returns required to be filed by them (after giving effect to validly obtained extensions of time in which to make such filings) and each such Tax Return is accurate and complete in all material respects and (ii) timely paid all material Taxes due and, with respect to any period for which Tax Returns have not yet been filed or for which Taxes are not yet due or owing, have made adequate accruals for the projected amount of such Taxes in their books and records and in the balance sheet
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dated December 31, 2004 contained in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement.
(b) The Company and the Company Subsidiaries have complied in all material respects with all applicable Laws relating to the payment and withholding of Taxes (including Taxes required to have been withheld in connection with amounts paid or owing to an employee, independent contractor, creditor or stockholder), have duly and timely withheld and paid over to the appropriate Governmental Entity all amounts so withheld and paid under all applicable Laws, and have duly and timely filed all material Tax Returns with respect to such withheld Taxes.
(c) The Company has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, (i) a real estate investment trust within the meaning of Section 856 of the Code (a REIT), and (ii) to its Knowledge, a domestically-controlled REIT within the meaning of Section 897(h)(4)(B) of the Code. To its Knowledge, the Company has neither taken nor omitted to take any action that could result in a successful challenge to its status as a REIT and no such challenge is pending or threatened in writing.
(d) Section 3.14(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter sets forth each Company Subsidiary (for purposes of this Section 3.14(d), the definition of Subsidiary contained in Section 9.03 shall be applied by substituting 9.9% for 50% in clause (i) of such definition) and designates which Company Subsidiaries are taxable REIT subsidiaries within the meaning of Section 856(1) of the Code. Each Company Subsidiary that is a partnership, joint venture, or limited liability company (i) has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, a partnership or disregarded entity for federal income tax purposes, as the case may be, and not a corporation or an association taxable as a corporation and (ii) is controlled or managed by the Company. Each Company Subsidiary that is a corporation has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, a qualified REIT subsidiary within the meaning of Section 856(i) of the Code or a taxable REIT subsidiary within the meaning of Section 856(1) of the Code.
(e) Since January 1, 2002, the Company has incurred no liability for Taxes under Sections 856(c)(7)(B), 856(g)(5)(C), 857(b), 860(c) or 4981 of the Code, including without limitation any Tax arising from a prohibited transaction described in Section 857(b)(6) of the Code or any Tax arising from redetermined rents, redetermined deductions and excess interest described in Section 857(b)(7) of the Code, and neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary has incurred any material liability for Taxes other than in the usual, regular and ordinary course of business. To the Companys Knowledge, no event has occurred and no condition or circumstance exists which presents a material risk that any material Tax described in the preceding sentence will be imposed upon the Company or any Company Subsidiary.
(f) Neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary holds any asset (i) the disposition of which would be subject to rules similar to Section 1374 of the Code as a result of (A) an election under IRS Notice 88-19 or Treasury Regulation 1 1.337(d)-5 or 1 1.337(d)-6 or (B) the application of Treasury Regulation 1 1.337(d)-7 or (ii) that would cause the Company to fail to satisfy the requirements of Section 856(c)(4) of the Code.
(g) Since January 1, 2002, the Company and the Company Subsidiaries have not taken or omitted to take any action which would reasonably be expected to result in any amounts treated by the Company and/or the Company Subsidiaries as rents paid by tenants of the Company Properties to be excluded from the definition of rents from real property within the meaning of Section 856(d) of the Code and Treasury Regulations thereunder.
(h) All material deficiencies for Taxes asserted against the Company or any Company Subsidiary (i) have been paid or (ii) are being contested in good faith and are disclosed on Section 3.14(h) of the Company Disclosure Letter. Since January 1, 2002, neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary has been the subject of any audit, suit, proceeding, claim, examination, or assessment by any Governmental Entity regarding Taxes, and no such audit, suit, proceeding, claim, examination, or assessment is currently pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened or proposed. No claim has been made in writing by a Governmental Entity in a jurisdiction where the Company or any Company Subsidiary does not file Tax Returns such that the Company or any Company Subsidiary is or may be subject to taxation by that jurisdiction.
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(i) Neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries (i) has any liability for the Taxes of any Person, other than the Company or the Company Subsidiaries, under Treasury Regulation 1 1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of state, local or foreign Law) or as a transferee or successor or (ii) has entered into or is subject, directly or indirectly, to any Tax Protection Arrangement, Tax sharing agreement, Tax indemnification agreement or similar contract or arrangement; and Section 3.14 of the Company Disclosure Letter identifies the maximum amounts that could become payable under any such agreements.
(j) Neither the Company nor any Company Subsidiary has constituted either a distributing corporation or a controlled corporation (within the meaning of Section 355(a)(1)(A) of the Code) in a distribution of stock qualifying for tax-free treatment under Section 355 of the Code (i) in the two (2) years prior to the date of this Agreement or (ii) in a distribution which could otherwise constitute part of a plan or series of related transactions (within the meaning of Section 355(e) of the Code) in conjunction with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(k) The Company and each Company Subsidiary has disclosed to the IRS on the appropriate Tax Returns any Reportable Transaction, as defined in Treasury Regulation 11.6011-4(b), in which it has participated. The Company and each Company Subsidiary has retained all documents and other records pertaining to any Reportable Transaction in which it has participated, in accordance with Treasury Regulation 1 1.6011-4(g).
(l) The Company and each Company Subsidiary has disclosed on their federal income Tax Returns all positions taken therein which could give rise to a substantial understatement of income Tax under Section 6662 of the Code.
(m) There are no Encumbrances for Taxes upon the assets of the Company or the Company Subsidiaries except for Taxes not yet due and payable.
(n) Neither the Company nor any other Person on its behalf has (i) agreed to or is required to make any adjustments pursuant to Section 481(a) of the Code or any similar provision of Law or has any Knowledge that any Governmental Entity has proposed any such adjustment, or has any application pending with any Governmental Entity requesting permission for any changes in accounting methods that relate to the Company or any Company Subsidiary, (ii) executed or entered into a closing agreement pursuant to Section 7121 of the Code or any similar provision of Law with respect to the Company or any Company Subsidiary, (iii) requested any extension of time within which to file any Tax Return, which Tax Return has since not been filed, (iv) granted any extension of the statute of limitations for the assessment or collection of Taxes, or otherwise entered into or filed any agreements, arrangements, waivers or objections extending the statutory period or providing for an extension of time with respect to the assessment or reassessment of Taxes or the filing of any Tax Return, or any payment of Taxes, (v) granted to any Person any power of attorney that is currently in force with respect to any Tax matter, or (vi) received a ruling from any Governmental Entity in respect of Taxes or signed an agreement in respect of Taxes with any Governmental Entity.
Section 3.15. Pension and Benefit Plans; ERISA.
(a) Section 3.15(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter sets forth (i) all employee benefit plans, as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, and all material employee compensation and benefit plans, policies, arrangements or payroll practices, including, without limitation, severance pay, severance agreements, employment agreements, sick leave, vacation pay, salary continuation for disability, consulting or other compensation agreements, retirement, deferred compensation, bonus (including, without limitation, any retention bonus plan), long-term incentive, stock option, stock purchase, hospitalization, medical insurance, life insurance and scholarship programs maintained by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries or with respect to which the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries has any liability; and (ii) all employee pension benefit plans, as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA, maintained or contributed to by the Company or any trade or business (whether or not incorporated) which is under common control, or which is treated as a single employer, with the Company under Section 4.14(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Code (a Company ERISA Affiliate) or to which the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries or any Company ERISA Affiliate contributed or is obligated to contribute thereunder within six years prior to the Closing (the
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Company Pension Plans) (all such plans listed in clauses (i) and (ii) being hereinafter referred to as the Company Employee Benefit Plans).
(b) Except as set forth on Section 3.15(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter, true and complete copies of each Company Employee Benefit Plan, related trust (or other funding or financing arrangement) and all amendments thereto have been made available to Parent, as have the most recent summary plan descriptions, administrative service agreements, investment management or advisory agreements, audit reports, fidelity bonds, and fiduciary liability policies for such Company Employee Benefit Plans, as well as (i) Form 5500s for each Company Employee Benefit Plan for each of the past three (3) years, (ii) all material correspondence with any Governmental Entity relating to any Company Employee Benefit Plan, and (iii) with respect to any Company Employee Benefit Plan intended to be qualified pursuant to Section 401(a) of the Code, a current IRS determination letter.
(c) All individual employment, consulting, termination, severance, change in control, retention, bonus, post employment and other compensation agreements, arrangements and plans existing prior to the execution of this Agreement or which will exist prior to the Closing, which are between the Company or a Company Subsidiary and any current or former trustee, director, officer or employee thereof, including the name of such current or former trustee, director, officer or employee, the type of agreement and the amount of any estimated severance payment (including estimated gross-up, if applicable) owed thereunder due to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and any subsequent termination of employment, are listed in Section 3.15(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter (collectively, the Company Employment Agreements).
(d) The Company Pension Plans intended to qualify under Section 401 of the Code have received a favorable determination letter from the IRS and such determination has not been modified, revoked or limited, and, to the Knowledge of the Company, as of the Closing Date, nothing has occurred with respect to the operation of the Company Pension Plans that could reasonably be expected to cause the loss of such qualification or the imposition of any material liability, penalty or Tax under ERISA or the Code.
(e) Except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect or except as disclosed in Section 3.15(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter:
(i) All Company Employee Benefit Plans have been maintained in accordance with the terms of such plan and with all provisions of ERISA and the Code (including rules and regulations thereunder) and other applicable Law.
(ii) None of the Company Pension Plans is a multiemployer plan, as defined in Section 3(37) of ERISA (Company Multiemployer Plan), and neither the Company nor any Company ERISA Affiliate has at any time in the past sponsored, contributed to any such Company Multiemployer Plan, or has any liabilities with respect to any such Company Multiemployer Plan.
(iii) Neither the Company nor any Company ERISA Affiliate has ever maintained, sponsored, contributed to or otherwise incurred any present or contingent liability with respect to any single-employer plan, as defined in Section 4001(a)(15) of ERISA, and neither the Company nor any Company ERISA Affiliate has any present or contingent liability that is subject to Title IV of ERISA to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or to a trustee appointed under Section 4042 of ERISA, and no events have occurred and no circumstances exist that could reasonably be expected to result in any such liability to the Company or any Company ERISA Affiliate.
(iv) There is no liability for breaches of fiduciary duty in connection with Company Employee Benefit Plans, and neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries or any party in interest or disqualified person with respect to Company Employee Benefit Plans has engaged in a non-exempt prohibited transaction within the meaning of Section 4975 of the Code or Section 406 of ERISA.
(v) There are no actions, disputes, suits, claims, arbitration or legal, administrative or other proceeding or governmental investigation pending (other than routine claims for benefits) or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened, alleging any breach of the terms of any Company Employee Benefit
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Plan or of any fiduciary duties thereunder or violation of any applicable Law with respect to any such Company Employee Benefit Plan.
(vi) All contributions, premiums and other payments required by Law or any Company Employee Benefit Plan or applicable collective bargaining agreement have been made under any such plan to any fund, trust or account established thereunder or in connection therewith by the due date thereof, and no amounts are or will be due to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation as of the Closing Date (except for premiums in the ordinary course of business, which will be payable by the Company); and any and all contributions, premiums and other payments with respect to compensation or service before and through the Closing Date, or otherwise with respect to periods before and through the Closing Date, due from any of the Company or its Company ERISA Affiliates to, under or on account of each Company Employee Benefit Plan shall have been paid prior to the Closing Date or shall have been fully reserved and provided for or accrued on the Company financial statements.
(vii) The Company and Company ERISA Affiliates have complied with the requirements of Section 4980B of the Code and Parts 6 and 7 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA regarding health care coverage under Company Employee Benefit Plans.
(viii) No amount has been paid by the Company or any Company Subsidiaries, and no amount is expected to be paid by the Company or any Company Subsidiaries, which would be subject to the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Code such that all or a part of such payments would not be deductible by the payor.
(ix) Each Company Employee Benefit Plan may be unilaterally amended or terminated in its entirety by the Company except as to benefits accrued thereunder prior to amendment or termination and except for the rights of third-party administrators under the Companys Contracts with such administrators, which Contracts have been previously provided to Parent.
(f) Except as set forth in Section 3.15(f) of the Company Disclosure Letter, neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, whether alone, or in connection with any other event, will (i) result in any payment (including, but not limited to, any retention bonuses, parachute payments or noncompetition payments) becoming due to any employee or former employee or group of employees or former employees of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries; (ii) increase any benefits otherwise payable under any Company Employee Benefit Plan or any Company Employment Agreement; (iii) result in the acceleration of the time of payment or vesting of any Company Options or any other rights or benefits; or (iv) result in the payment of any excess parachute payment within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code with respect to a current or former employee of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
Section 3.16. Labor and Employment Matters. Except as to clauses (b), (c), (e) and (f) of this Section 3.16, which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect and except as disclosed in Section 3.16 of the Company Disclosure Letter:
(a) Neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries is a party to any collective bargaining agreement or other current labor agreement with any labor union or organization, and there is no question involving current union representation of employees of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries, nor does the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries have any Knowledge of any activity or proceeding of any labor organization (or representative thereof) or employee group (or representative thereof) to organize any such employees.
(b) There is no unfair labor practice charge or grievance arising out of a collective bargaining agreement or other grievance procedure pending, or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened against the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
(c) There is no complaint, lawsuit or proceeding in any forum by or on behalf of any present or former employee, any applicant for employment or any classes of the foregoing, or any written threat to initiate any of the foregoing, alleging breach of any express or implied contract of employment, any Law or regulation governing employment or the termination thereof or other discriminatory, wrongful or tortious
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conduct in connection with the employment relationship pending, or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened against the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
(d) There is no strike, slowdown, work stoppage or lockout pending, or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened, against or involving the Company, any of the Company Subsidiaries, or any Company Development Property.
(e) The Company and each of the Company Subsidiaries are in compliance with all applicable Laws in respect of employment and employment practices, terms and conditions of employment, wages, hours of work and occupational safety and health.
(f) As of the date of this Agreement, there is no proceeding, claim, suit, action or governmental investigation pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, threatened, with respect to which any current or former trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries is claiming indemnification from the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
Section 3.17. Contracts.
(a) As of the date hereof, Section 3.17(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter lists all Material Contracts of the Company and all Company Subsidiaries, other than those Material Contracts filed as exhibits to the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement. Except as set forth in Section 3.17(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter or as set forth in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, each Material Contract of the Company or a Company Subsidiary is valid, binding and enforceable and in full force and effect and there are no defaults or violations thereunder by the Company or the Company Subsidiaries party thereto or, to the Companys Knowledge, any other party thereto, nor does there exist any condition which upon the passage of time or the giving of notice or both would cause such a violation of or a default thereunder, except those defaults or violations that have not and would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(b) All mortgages, deeds of trust, loan agreements or other similar documents encumbering any of the Assets, or to which the Company or a Company Subsidiary is a party, are listed in Section 3.17(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter; and Section 3.17(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter also identifies each interest rate cap, interest rate collar, interest rate swap, currency hedging transaction and any other agreement relating to a similar transaction to which the Company or a Company Subsidiary is a party. The transactions contemplated hereby and by the Transaction Documents will not trigger any due-on-sale provision on any of such mortgages, deeds of trust, loan agreements or other documents or agreements, except as set forth in Section 3.17(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter, and will not require the consent of any lender or other Person, except as set forth in Section 3.17(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 3.17(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter, there is no confidentiality agreement, non-competition agreement or other contract or agreement that contains covenants that materially restrict the Companys or any of the Company Subsidiaries ability to conduct its business in any location.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 3.17(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no indemnification agreements entered into by and between the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries and any trustee, director or officer of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries.
(e) All joint venture agreements applicable to the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries are listed in Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter or are filed as exhibits to the Company SEC Documents. The transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Transaction Documents will not trigger any termination, buy-sell, transfer, option, right of first refusal, right of first offer, tag-along or any similar right by any party under any of such joint venture agreements, except as set forth in Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter, and will not require the consent of any joint venture partner, except as set forth in Section 3.17 of the Company Disclosure Letter. Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter discloses the ownership interests in each joint venture; the capital accounts of each partner or member of each joint venture; any outstanding loans by a partner or member to a joint venture; and any capital calls made by a partner or member in a joint venture, but not fully funded as of the date of this Agreement.
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(f) Except as set forth in Section 3.17(f) of the Company Disclosure Letter, none of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement which would restrict any of them from prepaying any of their indebtedness without penalty or premium at any time or which requires any of them to maintain any amount of indebtedness with respect to any of the Company Properties.
(g) Except as set forth in Section 3.17(g) of the Company Disclosure Letter or except as disclosed in the Company SEC Documents, none of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement relating to the management of any Company Property by any Person other than the Company or a Company Subsidiary.
(h) None of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement pursuant to which the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries manages or provides services with respect to any real properties other than Company Properties, except for the agreements listed in Section 3.17(h) of the Company Disclosure Letter or filed as exhibits to the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement. No party to any such agreement has given written notice of its intention to terminate or cancel any such agreements.
(i) Section 3.17(i) of the Company Disclosure Letter lists all Material Contracts entered into by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries providing for the sale of, or option to sell, any Company Properties or the purchase of, or option to purchase, by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries, on the one hand, or the other party thereto, on the other hand, any real estate not yet consummated as of the date hereof except where such termination or cancellation would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(j) Section 3.17(j) of the Company Disclosure Letter lists all agreements entered into by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries with any investment bankers or financial advisors that are currently in effect.
Section 3.18. Intellectual Property. All Company Intellectual Property is owned or licensed by the Company or the Company Subsidiaries free and clear of any and all Encumbrances, except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect, and neither the Company nor any such Company Subsidiary has forfeited or otherwise relinquished any Company Intellectual Property, except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.19. Insurance. Section 3.19 of the Company Disclosure Letter sets forth a true, correct and complete schedule of the insurance policies (including the type, amount of coverage and premiums and expiration dates of such policies) held by, or for the benefit of, the Company, the Company Subsidiaries and any Company Property Owner. The Company or the applicable Company Subsidiary has paid, or caused to be paid, all premiums due under such policies and is not in default with respect to any obligations under such policies in any respect except to the extent that such failure to pay would not have a Company Material Adverse Effect. Section 3.19 of the Company Disclosure Letter also includes a list of five years of loss runs for losses in excess of $10,000 for every line of insurance, including large-loss descriptions on any such policies. None of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries has received any insurance company notice of any material defects or deficiencies affecting the insurability of the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries or any of their respective assets thereunder. Except as set forth in Section 3.19 of the Company Disclosure Letter, (i) neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries has received any written notice of cancellation or termination with respect to any existing insurance policy held by or for the benefit of the Company, any of the Company Subsidiaries or any Company Property Owner, and (ii) there are no outstanding or to the Companys Knowledge, threatened, requirements for any repairs or alterations to be made to any Company Property by any (x) insurance company that has issued an insurance policy covering any Company Property, or (y) board of fire underwriters or other body exercising similar functions. The Company and Company Subsidiaries maintain insurance in form and amount and with carriers that meet requirements for insurance included in loan agreements and other Material Contracts.
Section 3.20. Brokers. Except for the fees and expenses payable to the Company Financial Advisor (which engagement letter with respect to the Company Financial Advisor has been made available to Parent), no broker, investment banker or other Person is entitled to any brokers, finders or other similar fee or
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commission in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Documents based upon arrangements made by or on behalf of the Company or any Company Subsidiary.
Section 3.21. Related Party Transactions. Except as disclosed in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or as set forth in Section 3.21 of the Company Disclosure Letter, there are no material arrangements, agreements or contracts entered into by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and any Person who is an officer, trustee, director or Affiliate of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, any relative of the foregoing or an entity of which any of the foregoing is an Affiliate or an Associate, on the other hand. Copies of all such documents listed on Section 3.21 of the Company Disclosure Letter have been made available to Parent.
Section 3.22. Opinion of Financial Advisor. The Company Board has received the written opinion of the Company Financial Advisor to the effect that, based on, and subject to the various assumptions and qualifications set forth in such opinion, as of the date of such opinion, the REIT Merger Consideration to be received by the Companys shareholders (or, if the Reverse REIT Merger is to be consummated pursuant to Article X of this Agreement, the Special Dividend, together with the REIT Merger Consideration) is fair from a financial point of view to the Companys public holders of Company Common Shares. A copy of the written opinion of the Company Financial Advisor has been delivered to Parent.
Section 3.23. Investment Company Act of 1940. Neither the Company nor any of the Company Subsidiaries is, or on the Closing Date will be, required to be registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
Section 3.24. Board Recommendation. The Company Board, at a meeting duly called and held, has, by unanimous vote of all its members, (i) determined that this Agreement and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are advisable, fair to and in the best interests of the Company and the shareholders of the Company, and (ii) resolved to recommend that the holders of Company Common Shares approve and adopt this Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the REIT Merger.
Section 3.25. Inapplicability of Takeover Statutes, Rights Agreement and Certain Charter and Bylaw Provisions.
(a) The Company has taken all action required to be taken by it in order to exempt this Agreement and the REIT Merger from, and this Agreement and the REIT Merger are exempt from, the requirements of any moratorium, control share, fair price, affiliate transaction, business combination or other takeover Laws and regulations of any state (collectively, Takeover Statutes), including the Maryland Business Combination Act and Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act and any takeover provision in the Company Organizational Documents.
(b) The Company and the Company Board have taken all appropriate and necessary actions to render any and all limitations on ownership of (i) Company Common Shares and Company Preferred Shares as set forth in the Charter and (2) Company L.P. Units as set forth in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement, including the Ownership Limit (as defined in the Charter), inapplicable to the REIT Merger, the OP Merger, the Transaction Documents and the other transactions contemplated thereby.
(c) The Company Board has amended the Company Rights Agreement prior to the execution of this Agreement so as to provide that (i) (A) none of Parent, Parent L.P. or any of their Affiliates or associates will become an Acquiring Person (as defined in the Company Rights Agreement) and (B) no Share Acquisition Date or Distribution Date or Section 11(a)(ii) Event or Section 13 Event (each as defined in the Company Rights Agreement) will occur or be deemed to have occurred, in each case, as a result of the approval, execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and (ii) the Company Rights Agreement will terminate immediately prior to the REIT Effective Time.
Section 3.26. Information Supplied by the Company.
(a) The information supplied or to be supplied by the Company for inclusion or incorporation in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the Partner Exchange Materials, and any other documents filed with the SEC in connection herewith, will not, at the time the Registration Statement is declared effective by the
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SEC, on the date the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus is first mailed to shareholders of the Company and first mailed to shareholders of Parent, or at the time of either of the Company Shareholders Meeting or Parent Shareholders Meeting, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The Company Proxy Statement included in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus will, at the time of the Company Shareholders Meeting, comply as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations or warranties with respect to information that has been or will be supplied by Parent or Merger Sub, or their auditors, attorneys, financial advisers, other consultants or advisers, specifically for use in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
Section 3.27. Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act. The transactions contemplated hereby are exempt from any requirement to make any filings under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, and the implementing regulations thereto, 16 C.F.R. parts 801-803, because (a) the Company is a REIT; and (b) the Company has determined that the aggregate fair market value of the non-exempt assets of the Company and the entities controlled by the Company is less than $53.1 million.
Section 3.28. Limitation. The representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement were made in contemplation of the REIT Merger and the Reverse REIT Merger and Company and Company L.P. are not responsible for any breach of a representation or warranty that results from the consummation of the Prudential Purchase Agreement.
ARTICLE IV
Representations and Warranties of Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and L.P. Merger Sub
As an inducement to the Company and Company L.P. to enter into this Agreement, except as disclosed in a section of the Parent Disclosure Letter corresponding to the section of this Article IV to which such disclosure applies, each of Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub and L.P. Merger Sub hereby jointly and severally represents and warrants to the Company and Company L.P. as follows:
Section 4.01. Organization, Standing and Power of Parent. Parent is a real estate investment trust duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland and has the requisite real estate investment trust power, authority and all necessary government approvals or licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such real estate investment trust power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. Parent is duly qualified or licensed to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the nature of the business it is conducting, or the ownership, operation or leasing of its properties or the management of properties for others makes such qualification or licensing necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified or licensed or in good standing would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. Parent has heretofore made available to the Company complete and correct copies of Parents Declaration of Trust and bylaws in each case, as currently in effect (the Parent Organizational Documents) and Parent Organizational Documents Organizational Documents are in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
Section 4.02. Parent Subsidiaries.
(a) Each Parent Subsidiary that is a corporation is duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation and has the requisite corporate power, authority and all necessary government approvals and licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such corporate power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. All outstanding shares of stock of each of the Parent Subsidiaries that is a corporation have been duly authorized, are validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, and are not subject to any rights of first offer, rights of first refusal, tag-along rights or any other preemptive rights and are, except as disclosed in 4.02(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, (i) 100% owned by Parent and/or another Parent Subsidiary and (ii) owned free
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and clear of all Encumbrances, preemptive rights, call rights, assessments or other adverse interests of any kind or nature whatsoever.
(b) Each Parent Subsidiary that is a partnership, limited liability company, trust or other entity (including, without limitation, Parent, L.P., Merger Sub, and Merger L.P.) is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of organization and has the requisite power, authority and all necessary government approvals and licenses to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now being conducted, except where the failure to have such power, authority, government approvals or licenses would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. Parent has heretofore made available to the Company complete and correct copies of (i) the Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement, (ii) Merger Subs certificate of formation and operating agreement as currently in effect (the Merger Sub Organizational Documents) and (iii) L.P. Merger Subs certificate of formation and operating agreement as currently in effect (the L.P. Merger Sub Organizational Documents). The Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement, the Merger Sub Organizational Documents and the L.P. Merger Sub Organizational Documents are in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
(c) Each Parent Subsidiary is duly qualified or licensed to do business and is, where applicable, in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or the ownership, operation or leasing of its properties or the management of properties for others makes such qualification or licensing necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified or licensed or in good standing would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 4.02(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter and except for any interest in Merger Sub or Merger L.P. that Prudential or an Affiliate of Prudential may acquire, there are no outstanding options, warrants or other rights to acquire ownership interests from or with respect to any Parent Subsidiary. Parent has heretofore made available to the Company complete and correct copies of the charter, by-laws, partnership agreements, operating agreements or other organizational documents of each of the Parent Subsidiaries, each as amended to date, and each such instrument or agreement is in full force and effect as of the date hereof. Section 4.02(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter sets forth (i) all Parent Subsidiaries and their respective jurisdictions of incorporation or organization, and (ii) each owner and the respective amount of such owners equity interest in each Parent Subsidiary. Except as set forth in Section 4.02(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, Parent does not directly or indirectly own any equity or similar interests in any other Person, or any interest convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any equity or similar interests in any other Person.
Section 4.03. Authority; No Violations; Consents and Approval.
(a) Each of Parent and any Parent Subsidiary party hereto or thereto has all requisite real estate investment trust, limited partnership or limited liability company power and authority to enter into this Agreement and each of the other Transaction Documents and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, subject with respect to the consummation of the REIT Merger, to receipt of the approval by a majority of the votes cast by the holders of outstanding Parent Common Shares entitled to vote on the REIT Merger (provided that the total vote cast on the proposal represents over 50% in interest of all securities entitled to vote on the REIT Merger) (the Required Parent Vote) and the acceptance for recording of the Articles of Merger by the State of Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation. The execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of Parent and each applicable Parent Subsidiary, subject with respect to the consummation of the REIT Merger, to receipt of the Required Parent Vote. The Transaction Documents have been duly executed and delivered by Parent and each applicable Parent Subsidiary and constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of Parent and each applicable Parent Subsidiary, and assuming they are binding obligations of the Company and Company L.P. in accordance with their terms, are enforceable against Parent and each applicable Parent Subsidiary in accordance with their terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and other Laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and by general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at Law).
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(b) Except as set forth in Section 4.03(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, the execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents by each of Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub, L.P. Merger Sub and each other Parent Subsidiary party thereto do not, and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, and compliance with the provisions hereof or thereof, will not, conflict with, or result in any violation of, or default (with or without notice or lapse of time, or both) under, or give rise to a right of termination, cancellation or acceleration of any material obligation, or the material loss of a benefit under, or give rise to a right of purchase, first offer or forced sale, under, or result in the creation of any Encumbrance upon any of the properties or assets of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries under, any provision of:
(i) the Parent Organizational Documents or the comparable charter or organizational documents (including any operating agreement or limited partnership agreement) of any Parent Subsidiary;
(ii) any Contract applicable to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, or their respective properties or assets or any guarantee by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary of any of the foregoing; or
(iii) assuming the consents, approvals, authorizations, permits and filings or notifications referred to in Section 4.02(c) are duly and timely obtained or made and the Required Company Vote and Required Parent Vote each have been obtained, any judgment, order, decree, statute, Law, ordinance, rule or regulation applicable to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, or any of their respective properties or assets;
except as to clauses (ii) and (iii) as would not individually or in the aggregate, cause a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Without limiting the generality of Section 4.03(b), the transactions contemplated herein do not violate any provision regarding direct or indirect transfers of interests in any Parent Subsidiary that are set forth in any agreement relating to the operation of, ownership of interests in, any Parent Subsidiary, even if such transactions result in a termination under Section 708 of the Code of any Parent Subsidiary.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 4.03(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, no consent, approval, order or authorization of, or registration, declaration or filing with, or permit from any Governmental Entity is required by or with respect to Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub L.P., Merger Sub and each other Parent Subsidiary in connection with the execution and delivery by such entity of the Transaction Documents to which such entity is a party or the consummation by such entity of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, except for:
(i) as to the REIT Merger, the filing of the Articles of Merger with the Department of Assessment and Taxation of the State of Maryland, and as to the OP Merger, the filing of the OP Merger Certificate with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware;
(ii) a proxy statement relating to the Required Parent Vote (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the Parent Proxy Statement) and the Registration Statement;
(iii) rules and regulations of the NYSE;
(iv) such reports under Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act as may be required in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
(v) such filings and approvals as are required to be made or obtained under the securities or Blue Sky laws of various states in connection with the issuance of Parent Common Shares and Parent Class A Units pursuant to this Agreement; and
(vi) such other consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations, declarations, filings or permits that (1) may be required in connection with the payment of any transfer and gains taxes or under federal, state or local environmental laws or (2) the failure to obtain or make, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.04. Capital Structure.
(a) Parent is authorized to issue 110,000,000 shares of beneficial interest, consisting of 100,000,000 common shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share (Parent Common Shares) and 10,000,000 preferred shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share of which 2,000,000 shares have
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been designated as 7.50% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares and 2,300,000 shares have been designated as 7.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares. As contemplated by this Agreement, Parent intends to designate a class of Parent Series E Preferred Shares. As of the date hereof, (i) 56,495,269 Parent Common Shares (excluding shares held by Parent) were issued and outstanding, (ii) 2,000,000 7.50% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares were issued and outstanding, (iii) 2,300,000 7.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares were issued and outstanding, (iv) no Parent Common Shares were held by Parent, (v) 1,276,722 Parent Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding options to purchase Parent Common Shares (each, a Parent Option), (vi) 2,743,521 Parent Common Shares were available for future grant pursuant to Parents Amended and Restated 1997 Long-Term Incentive Plan and (vii) 3,749,717 Parent Common Shares were reserved for issuance upon exchange of Parent Class A Units.
(b) To the Knowledge of Parent, the issuance and sale of the issued and outstanding shares of beneficial interest described in this Section 4.04 have been made in compliance in all material respects with United States federal and state securities Laws. Section 4.04(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter accurately sets forth as of the date hereof the names of all holders of options or rights to purchase the Parents shares of beneficial interest (including but not limited to Parent Options) and the number and type of shares issuable upon exercise of such options, the exercise price and vesting schedule with respect thereto. Except as set forth in Section 4.04(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, neither the Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary has agreed to register any securities under the Securities Act or under any state securities Law or granted registration rights to any Person, and complete and correct copies of any such agreements have previously been made available to Company. Except as set forth in the Parent SEC Documents or Section 4.04(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof, there are no outstanding share or stock-appreciation rights, security-based performance units, phantom stock or other security rights or other agreements, arrangements or commitments of any character (contingent or otherwise) pursuant to which any Person is or may be entitled to receive any payment or other value based on the revenues, earnings or financial performance, share or stock price performance or other attribute of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries or assets or calculated in accordance therewith.
(c) (i) As of the date hereof, the issued and outstanding partnership interests of Parent L.P. consist of (A) 54,690,817 units of general partner interests in Parent L.P., all of which are owned by Parent, (B) 3,749,717 Class A units of limited partner interests in Parent L.P. (Parent Class A Units), 1,804,452 of which are owned by Parent and 1,945,265 of which are owned by Persons who are not Subsidiaries of Parent, (C) 2,000,000 Series D Preferred Mirror Units, all of which are owned by Parent, and (D) 2,300,000 Series E Preferred Mirror Units (together with the Series D Preferred Mirror Units, the Parent Preferred Units), all of which are owned by Parent.
(ii) Parent is the sole general partner of Parent L.P.
(iii) The holders of Parent Class A Units have the right, under certain circumstances, to exchange such units for Parent Common Shares on a one-for-one basis pursuant to the terms of the Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement. To the Knowledge of Parent, as of the date hereof, no notice has been received by Parent or Parent L.P. of the exercise of any of the rights set forth in this Section 4.04(c)(iii), which are not reflected in this Section.
(d) Except as set forth in Sections 4.04(a) or (c) hereof or in Sections 4.04(b) or 4.04(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof there are issued and outstanding or reserved for issuance: (i) no Parent Common Shares or other shares of beneficial interest, Voting Debt or other voting securities of Parent; (ii) no restricted Parent Common Shares or other shares of beneficial interest, capital stock or equity interests of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, performance share awards or dividend equivalent rights relating to the equity interests of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, (iii) no securities of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary or securities or assets of any other entity convertible into or exchangeable for Parent Common Shares, shares of stock, Voting Debt or other voting securities of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary; and (iv) no subscriptions, options, warrants, conversion rights, shares appreciation rights, calls, claims, rights of first refusal, rights (including preemptive rights), commitments, arrangements or agreements to which Parent or any Parent Subsidiary is a party or by which it is bound in any case obligating Parent or any Parent Subsidiary to issue,
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deliver, sell, purchase, redeem or acquire, or cause to be issued, delivered, sold, purchased, redeemed or acquired, additional Parent Common Shares, other shares of beneficial interest or stock, Voting Debt or other voting securities of Parent or of any Parent Subsidiary, or obligating Parent or any Parent Subsidiary to grant, extend or enter into any such subscription, option, warrant, conversion right, share appreciation right, call, right, commitment, arrangement or agreement. All outstanding shares of beneficial interest or capital stock of Parent and each Parent Subsidiary (including Parent L.P.) are, and all shares reserved for issuance will be, upon issuance in accordance with the terms specified in the instruments or agreements pursuant to which they are issuable, duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and, with respect to Parent Subsidiaries that are corporations, nonassessable and not subject to or issued in violation of, any preemptive right, purchase option, call option, right of first refusal, subscription or any other similar right or Encumbrance and with respect to each Parent Subsidiary, 100% owned by the Parent and/or another Parent Subsidiary except as disclosed in Section 4.04(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter.
(e) Except as set forth in the Parent SEC Documents, all dividends or distributions on securities of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary that have been declared or authorized prior to the date of this Agreement have been paid in full (except to the extent such dividends have been publicly announced and are not yet due and payable).
(f) Except for the Transaction Documents and except as set forth in Section 4.04(f) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, to the Knowledge of Parent, as of the date hereof there are not any (i) shareholder agreements, voting trusts, proxies or other agreements or understandings relating to the voting of any shares of beneficial interest of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary or (ii) agreements or understandings relating to the sale or transfer (including agreements imposing transfer restrictions) of any Parent Common Shares or any preferred shares of Parent or any ownership interests in any Parent Subsidiary, to which Parent or any Parent Subsidiary is a party or by which it is bound. Except as set forth in Section 4.04(f) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof there are no restrictions on Parents ability to vote the equity interests of any Parent Subsidiary.
(g) Except as set forth in the Parent SEC Documents or in Section 4.04(g) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, as of the date hereof there are no material Parent Subsidiaries (other than Parent L.P.) in which any officer, trustee or director of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary owns any shares of beneficial interest, stock or other securities. To the Knowledge of Parent, as of the date hereof, there are no agreements or understandings between Parent or any material Parent Subsidiary and any Person that could cause such Person to be treated as holding any stock or security in Parent or any material Parent Subsidiary as an agent for, or nominee of, Parent or any material Parent Subsidiary.
Section 4.05. Vote Required. The Required Parent Vote is the only vote of the holders of any class or series of Parents shares of beneficial interest or the Parent Subsidiaries capital stock necessary to approve this Agreement, the REIT Merger and the OP Merger.
Section 4.06. SEC Documents.
(a) Parent has filed with the SEC, and has heretofore made available to the Company (by public filing with the SEC or otherwise) true and complete copies of, all reports, schedules, forms, statements and other documents required to be filed with the SEC by Parent since December 31, 2001 (collectively, the Parent SEC Documents). Parent does not have any outstanding and unresolved comments from the SEC with respect to any of the Parent SEC Documents. None of the Parent SEC Documents is the subject of any confidential treatment request by Parent.
(b) As of its respective date, each Parent SEC Document complied in all material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act or the Securities Act, as the case may be, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as and to the extent applicable thereto, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder applicable to such Parent SEC Document. Except to the extent that information contained in any Parent SEC Document filed and publicly available prior to the date of this Agreement has been revised or superseded by a later filed Parent SEC Document, none of the Parent SEC Documents at the time of filing contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made,
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not misleading. The financial statements of Parent included in the Parent SEC Documents comply as to form in all material respects with applicable accounting requirements and the published rules and regulations of the SEC with respect thereto, have been prepared in accordance with GAAP (except, in the case of unaudited statements, and to the extent as permitted by Form 10-Q of the SEC) applied on a consistent basis during the periods involved (except as and to the extent may be indicated in the notes thereto) and fairly present the financial position of Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries as of the dates thereof and the results of its operations and cash flows for the periods shown (subject, in the case of unaudited statements, to normal year-end audit adjustments).
(c) The management of Parent has (i) implemented disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act) to ensure that material information relating to Parent, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to the management of Parent by others within those entities, and (ii) has disclosed, based on its most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act), to Parents outside auditors and the audit committee of the board of trustees of Parent (the Parent Board) (A) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect Parents ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information and (B) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in Parents internal control over financial reporting.
Section 4.07. Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Except as and to the extent disclosed in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or as disclosed in Section 4.07 of the Parent Disclosure Letter or as otherwise permitted pursuant to this Agreement to occur after the date hereof, since December 31, 2004, Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries have conducted their business only in the ordinary course and there has not been:
(a) other than (x) as permitted pursuant to Section 6.11 or for dividends from a wholly owned Subsidiary to its parent entity or (y) for distributions pursuant to the joint venture agreements or other documents identified on Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, any declaration, setting aside or payment of any dividends on, or any other distributions in respect of, any of their shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Parent L.P. Units;
(b) any amendment of any term of any material outstanding debt or equity security of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary other than in the ordinary course of business;
(c) any split, combination or reclassification of any Parent Common Shares or the stock of any Parent Subsidiary (other than the stock of Subsidiaries wholly-owned, directly or indirectly, by Parent), or any issuance or the authorization of any issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for, or giving the right to acquire by exchange or exercise, shares of stock or any ownership interest in, Parent or any Parent Subsidiary other than in connection with (1) the conversion, redemption or exchange of Parent L.P. Units in accordance with their terms, (2) the exercise of Parent Options in accordance with their terms or (3) any dividend reinvestment or share purchase program;
(d) any material change in accounting methods, principles or practices of Parent or Parent Subsidiaries, except as may be required by a change in industry practice, Law, GAAP or by a Governmental Entity;
(e) to the Knowledge of Parent, any amendment of any employment, consulting, severance, incentive stock, stock option, deferred compensation, bonus, retirement, retention or any other agreement between (i) Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, on the one hand and (ii) any officer, trustee or director of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, earning more than $150,000 per year other than as required by any contract, agreement or Parent Employee Benefit Plan;
(f) any change in the lines of business in which Parent or any the Parent Subsidiaries participates or is engaged;
(g) any direct or indirect acquisition (whether through merger or consolidation with, the purchase of a substantial equity interest in, the purchase of a substantial portion of the assets of, or otherwise) of any
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business or any corporation, partnership, association or other business organization or a division thereof or any significant assets other than in the ordinary course of business in an amount not involving more than $1,000,000 individually or $5,000,000 in the aggregate or as otherwise specified in the Parent Corporate Budget;
(h) any incurrence of indebtedness for borrowed money or guarantee for such indebtedness, in each case by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, other than to meet (i) the current cash needs of Parent and Parent Subsidiaries not exceeding the amount contemplated by the Parent Corporate Budget for such period, a copy of which has been previously provided to the Company, (ii) for projects currently under construction in amounts disclosed in the Parent Corporate Budget and (iii) as needed for the conversion, redemption or exchange of Parent L.P. Units in accordance with their terms;
(i) any change, event, effect, damage, destruction or loss relating to the business or operations of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary that has had a Parent Material Adverse Effect; or
(j) any Contract, commitment or arrangement to do or engage in any action the consummation of which would effect any of the events listed in this Section 4.07.
Section 4.08. Environmental Matters. Except as disclosed in Section 4.08 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect:
(a) Parent has not received written notice that any judicial, administrative or compliance order has been issued, any unresolved complaint has been filed, any unpaid penalty has been assessed, or that any investigation or review is pending or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened by any Governmental Entity with respect to any alleged failure by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary to comply with any Environmental Law;
(b) To the Knowledge of Parent, neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary nor any previous owner or lessee of any property currently owned, operated or leased by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, has used, generated, stored, treated or handled any Hazardous Material in a manner that would reasonably be expected to result in liability under Environmental Laws. In addition, to Parents Knowledge: (i) there are no asbestos-containing materials or Microbial Matters present on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary not in compliance with applicable Law, (ii) there are no PCBs present on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary not in compliance with applicable Law, and (iii) there are currently no leaking underground storage tanks, active or abandoned, used for the storage of Hazardous Materials on, in or under any property owned, leased or operated by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary;
(c) Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries have not received notice of any unresolved claim, investigation, litigation, proceeding, notice of violation, complaint, or request for information, to the effect that it is or may be liable to a Third Party, including a Governmental Entity, as a result of a violation of any Environmental Law or a Release or threatened Release of a Hazardous Material at any property currently or formerly owned, leased or operated by Parent or a Parent Subsidiary;
(d) To the Knowledge of Parent, Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries have not transported or arranged for the transportation of any Hazardous Material to any location which is the subject of any action, suit or proceeding that would be reasonably expected to result in claims against Parent or any Parent Subsidiary related to such Hazardous Material;
(e) There are no Encumbrances threatened or attached to any Parent Property arising under or pursuant to any applicable Environmental Law, and no action of any Governmental Entity has been taken or, to the Knowledge of Parent, is in process which could subject any of such properties to such Encumbrances;
(f) Neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary has in its possession or control or knows of the existence of any environmental assessment or investigation reports or environmental testing results relating to Microbial Matter prepared within the last four years that have not been provided to the Company prior to the execution of this Agreement;
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(g) To the Knowledge of Parent, each of the Parent Properties and operations conducted thereon is in compliance in all material respects with all Environmental Laws and Parent and all Parent Subsidiaries are in compliance in all material respects with all Environmental Laws applicable to any of their owned or leased properties; and
(h) To the Knowledge of Parent, there has been no Release or threatened Release of Hazardous Material in violation of any Environmental Law or which would reasonably be expected to result in liability on any property owned, leased or operated by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary.
(i) There have been no complaints relating to air quality or Microbial Matter at the Parent Properties and there have been no significant incidents of water damage at the Parent Properties or visual evidence of Microbial Matter in any structure or system at the Parent Properties. To the Knowledge of the Parent, there have been no indications of improper design or construction of any structure at the Parent Properties or any system contained therein that has led or would reasonably be expected to lead to the growth of Microbial Matter. Parent is not subject to any material capital expenditures or material obligations (contractual or otherwise) arising under or relating to Environmental Laws.
Section 4.09. Properties.
(a) Except as described in Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, Parent or a Parent Property Owner owns fee simple title to each of the real properties (or the applicable portion thereof) listed on Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter as being owned in fee (collectively, the Parent Owned Properties). Except as described in Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, Parent or a Parent Property Owner has a valid leasehold interest in each of the real properties (or the applicable portion thereof) listed on Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter as being ground leased or subleased (together with the Parent Owned Properties, collectively, the Parent Properties) pursuant to those certain ground leases or subleases (together with any amendments thereto, collectively, the Parent Ground Leases) described on Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter. The Parent Properties are all of the real properties owned or leased by Parent and the Parent Property Owners. To the Knowledge of Parent, the interests of Parent and the Parent Property Owners in the Parent Properties are good and insurable and the same are owned free and clear of Encumbrances except for (i) indebtedness for money borrowed and other matters specifically identified in Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter with reference to the particular property affected thereby, (ii) inchoate Encumbrances imposed for construction work in progress, including mechanics liens, workers or repairmens liens, or otherwise incurred in the ordinary course of business that do not adversely affect in any material respects the use or operation of the applicable Parent Property, (iii) easement agreements disclosed and all other matters disclosed on the existing title policies (Existing Parent Title Policies), (iv) matters as would be disclosed on current title reports or surveys that arise in the ordinary course and do not materially and adversely affect the value, use or operation of the applicable Parent Property (restrictive covenants in forms generally created for office parks of the types of which Parent Properties are located shall be deemed Permitted Parent Encumbrances), (v) matters disclosed in Section 4.09(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter with reference to the particular property affected thereby, (vi) real estate Taxes and special assessments not yet delinquent (except as is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which a reserve in accordance with GAAP has been set forth on the books of Parent or a Parent Property Owner, as applicable), (vii) Space Leases and (viii) in the case of a Parent Property Owner identified in Section 4.17(e) as a joint venture in which a Parent Subsidiary holds an ownership interest, the interest of the other member or partner in such Parent Property Owner, as and to the extent such interest is disclosed in Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter (the matters in clauses (i) through (viii), inclusive, the Permitted Parent Encumbrances) and (ix) Encumbrances being contested in good faith in the ordinary course of business.
(b) Except as listed in Section 4.09(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or Existing Parent Title Policies or which would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, Parent Properties are not subject to any rights of way, restrictive covenants, written agreements, Laws, ordinances and regulations affecting building use, parking or occupancy, or reservations of an interest in title (including, without limitation, reciprocal easement and operating easement agreements) (collectively, Parent Property Restrictions), except for (i) Parent Property Restrictions imposed or promulgated by Law with respect to real property, including zoning
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regulations and (ii) Permitted Parent Encumbrances. Except as listed in Section 4.09(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of Parent, (i) each Parent Property complies with the Parent Property Restrictions, (ii) neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner, nor, to the Knowledge of Parent, any other party, is currently in default or violation of any Parent Property Restriction and (iii) no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default thereunder.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 4.09(c) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, (i) valid policies of title insurance or marked up title commitments have been issued insuring Parents or a Parent Property Owners fee simple title or leasehold estate to each of the Parent Properties in amounts at least equal to the purchase price paid for the applicable Parent Property and, to the Knowledge of Parent, such policies are in full force and effect and (ii) no material claim has been made against any such policies.
(d) Except as listed in Section 4.09(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of Parent, there is no certificate, permit or license from any Governmental Entity having jurisdiction over any of the Parent Properties or any agreement, easement or any other right which is necessary to permit the current use and operation of the buildings and improvements on any of the Parent Properties or which is necessary to permit the current use and operation of all driveways, roads and other means of egress and ingress to and from any of the Parent Properties or which govern the use and operation of the Parent Properties (collectively, the Parent Property Agreements) that has not been obtained and is not in full force and effect, or any pending threat of modification or cancellation of any of same. Except as listed in Section 4.09(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, (i) neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner, nor to the Knowledge of Parent, any other party, is currently in default or violation of any Parent Property Agreement and (ii) to the Knowledge of Parent no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default or violation thereunder.
(e) Except as listed in Section 4.09(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner has received written notice of any violation of any federal, state or municipal Law, ordinance, order, regulation or requirement affecting any portion of any of the Parent Properties issued by any Governmental Entity that has not been heretofore remedied.
(f) Except as listed in Sections 4.09(f) and 4.13 of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, Parent has not received notice of any: (i) condemnation or rezoning or proceedings that are pending or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened with respect to any portion of any of the Parent Properties; or (ii) to the Knowledge of Parent, violation of zoning, building, land-use, fire, safety and signage or other applicable Laws (including, without limitation, to the Knowledge of Parent the Americans With Disabilities Act) or orders that are presently being violated or will be violated by the continued maintenance, operation or use of any buildings or other improvements on any of the Parent Properties or by the continued maintenance, operation or use of the parking areas.
(g) Except as listed in Section 4.09(g) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner is currently obligated under any option, right of first refusal or other contractual right to sell, dispose of any of the Parent Properties or any material portion thereof or material interest therein to any Person other than Merger Sub.
(h) Each Parent Ground Lease is valid, binding and enforceable against Parent (or any Parent Property Owner, as applicable) and, to the Knowledge of Parent, the other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, and is in full force and effect. Except as listed in Section 4.09(h) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, (i) Parent has performed in all material respects all material obligations required to be performed by it to date under each of the Parent Ground Leases and (ii) neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner, nor to the Knowledge of Parent, any other party, is in default under any Parent Ground Lease (and no event has occurred which, with due notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute such a default). Parent has
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delivered (or made available) to the Company a true, correct and complete copy of each Parent Ground Lease and all amendments thereto. No option has been exercised under any of such Parent Ground Leases, except options whose exercise has been evidenced by a written document as described in Section 4.09(h) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, a true, complete and accurate copy of which has been delivered to Parent with the corresponding Parent Ground Lease.
(i) The rent rolls for each of the Parent Properties as of September 23, 2005, copies of which dated September 23, 2005 were delivered to the Company (collectively, the Parent Rent Roll) have been provided or made available to the Company. Except as disclosed in Section 4.09(i) of the Parent Disclosure Letter and for discrepancies that, either individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, to the Knowledge of Parent, the information set forth in the Parent Rent Roll is true, correct and complete as of the date thereof. Except as disclosed in Section 4.09(i) of the Parent Disclosure Letter (i) to the Knowledge Parent, neither Parent nor any Parent Property Owner is in any monetary default under any Space Lease which default or defaults, individually or in the aggregate, would result in a Parent Material Adverse Effect and (ii) neither a Parent Property Owner nor Parent has received written notice or a copy of a notice from any tenant under any Space Lease claiming that Parent or the applicable Parent Property Owner is currently in default under its obligations as landlord under any such lease which monetary default or defaults would result in a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
(j) To the Knowledge of Parent, Parent and each of the Parent Property Owners have good and sufficient title to, or are permitted to use under valid and existing leases, personal and non-real properties and assets sufficient for the conduct and operation of their respective businesses and properties.
(k) Section 4.09(k) of the Parent Disclosure Letter identifies the Parent Properties that consist of or include undeveloped land and any Parent Properties that are in the process of being developed, expanded or rehabilitated or that are being held for future development) (each such Parent Property, a Parent Development Property) and a brief description of the development, expansion or rehabilitation being carried out by or on behalf of Parent or a Parent Property Owner or intended by Parent or a Parent Property Owner to be carried out or completed thereon, including the status thereof.
Section 4.10. No Undisclosed Material Liabilities. Except as set forth in Section 4.10 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, there are no liabilities or obligations of Parent or any Subsidiary thereof of any kind whatsoever, whether accrued, contingent, absolute, determined, determinable or otherwise, and there is no existing condition, situation or set of circumstances that would be reasonably expected to result in such a liability or obligation, other than (i) liabilities or obligations disclosed and provided for in the consolidated balance sheet of Parent as of June 30, 2005 included in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or referred to in the notes thereto; (ii) liabilities or obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice since June 30, 2005; and (iii) liabilities or obligations which, in case of (i), (ii) and (iii), would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.11. No Default. Except as set forth in Section 4.11 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries is in default or violation (and to the Knowledge of Parent no event has occurred which, with notice or the lapse of time or both, would constitute a default or violation) of any term, condition or provision of:
(a) the Parent Organizational Documents or the comparable charter or organizational documents (including any operating agreement or limited partnership agreement) of any of the Parent Subsidiaries, or
(b) any Contract applicable to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary or their respective properties or assets or any guarantee by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary of any of the foregoing;
except, in the case of clause (b), for defaults and violations which, individually or in the aggregate, have not constituted and would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.12. Compliance with Applicable Laws. Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries hold, and are in compliance with, all permits, licenses, certificates, registrations, variances, exemptions, orders, franchises and approvals of all Governmental Entities necessary for the lawful conduct of their respective businesses (the Parent Permits), except where the failure so to hold or be in compliance, individually or in the aggregate,
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would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. All applications required to have been filed for the renewal of the Parent Permits have been duly filed on a timely basis with the appropriate Governmental Entities, and all other filings required to have been made with respect to such Parent Permits have been duly made on a timely basis with the appropriate Governmental Entities, except for failures to file which, individually or in the aggregate, have not constituted and would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Parent Material Adverse Effect. Except as disclosed in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement and as, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to constitute a Parent Material Adverse Effect, the businesses of Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries are not being conducted in violation of any Law.
Section 4.13. Litigation. Except as set forth in Section 4.13 of the Parent Disclosure Letter or the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, and other than bodily injury and other tort litigation arising from the ordinary course of operations of Company and the Company Subsidiaries (a) which are substantially covered by insurance or (b) for which all material costs and liabilities arising therefrom are reimbursable pursuant to common area maintenance or similar agreements, there is no action, order, writ, injunction, judgment or decree outstanding or claim, suit, litigation, proceeding, arbitration, investigation or inquiry by or before any court, governmental or other regulatory or administrative agency or commission or any other Person instituted, pending or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened, in each case against Parent or any Parent Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties or assets that would cause a Parent Material Adverse Effect, nor is there any outstanding judgment, decree or injunction, in each case against Parent or any Parent Subsidiaries, or any order of any Governmental Entity applicable to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary that would cause a Parent Material Adverse Effect. To the Knowledge of Parent, there are no SEC inquiries or investigations, other governmental inquiries or investigations or internal investigations pending or threatened, in each case regarding any accounting practices of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries or any malfeasance by any executive officer of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
Section 4.14. Taxes. Except as set forth in Section 4.14 of the Parent Disclosure Letter:
(a) Parent and each Parent Subsidiary has (i) timely and duly filed with the appropriate Governmental Entities all material Tax Returns required to be filed by them (after giving effect to validly obtained extensions of time in which to make such filings) and each such Tax Return is accurate and complete in all material respects and (ii) timely paid all material Taxes due and, with respect to any period for which Tax Returns have not yet been filed or for which Taxes are not yet due or owing, have made adequate accruals for the projected amount of such Taxes in their books and records and in the balance sheet dated December 31, 2004 contained in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement.
(b) Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries have complied in all material respects with all applicable Laws relating to the payment and withholding of Taxes (including Taxes required to have been withheld in connection with amounts paid or owing to an employee, independent contractor, creditor or stockholder), have duly and timely withheld and paid over to the appropriate Governmental Entity all amounts so withheld and paid under all applicable Laws, and have duly and timely filed all material Tax Returns with respect to such withheld Taxes.
(c) Parent has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, (i) a REIT, and (ii) to its Knowledge, a domestically-controlled REIT within the meaning of Section 897(h)(4)(B) of the Code. To its Knowledge, Parent has neither taken nor omitted to take any action that could result in a successful challenge to its status as a REIT and no such challenge is pending or threatened in writing.
(d) Section 4.14(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter sets forth each Parent Subsidiary (for purposes of this Section 4.14(d), the definition of Subsidiary contained in Section 9.03 shall be applied by substituting 9.9% for 50% in clause (i) of such definition) and designates which Parent Subsidiaries are taxable REIT subsidiaries within the meaning of Section 856(1) of the Code. Each Parent Subsidiary that is a partnership, joint venture, or limited liability company (i) has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, a partnership or disregarded entity for federal income tax purposes, as the case may be, and not a corporation or an association taxable as a corporation and (ii) is controlled or managed by Parent. Each Parent Subsidiary that is a corporation has always been, and will be through the Closing Date, a qualified
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REIT subsidiary within the meaning of Section 856(i) of the Code or a taxable REIT subsidiary within the meaning of Section 856(1) of the Code.
(e) Since January 1, 2002, Parent has incurred no liability for Taxes under Sections 856(c)(7)(B), 856(g)(5)(C), 857(b), 860(c) or 4981 of the Code, including without limitation any Tax arising from a prohibited transaction described in Section 857(b)(6) of the Code or any Tax arising from redetermined rents, redetermined deductions and excess interest described in Section 857(b)(7) of the Code, and neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary has incurred any material liability for Taxes other than in the usual, regular and ordinary course of business. To Parents Knowledge, no event has occurred and no condition or circumstance exists which presents a material risk that any material Tax described in the preceding sentence will be imposed upon Parent or any Parent Subsidiary.
(f) Neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary holds any asset (i) the disposition of which would be subject to rules similar to Section 1374 of the Code as a result of (A) an election under IRS Notice 88-19 or Treasury Regulation 1 1.337(d)-5 or 1 1.337(d)-6 or (B) the application of Treasury Regulation § 1.337(d)-7 or (ii) that would cause Parent to fail to satisfy the requirements of Section 856(c)(4) of the Code.
(g) Since January 1, 2002, Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries have not taken or omitted to take any action which would reasonably be expected to result in any amounts treated by Parent and/or the Parent Subsidiaries as rents paid by tenants of the Parent Properties to be excluded from the definition of rents from real property within the meaning of Section 856(d) of the Code and Treasury Regulations thereunder.
(h) All material deficiencies for Taxes asserted against Parent or any Parent Subsidiary (i) have been paid or (ii) are being contested in good faith and are disclosed on Section 4.14(h) of the Parent Disclosure Letter. Since January 1, 2002, neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary has been the subject of any audit, suit, proceeding, claim, examination, or assessment by any Governmental Entity regarding Taxes, and no such audit, suit, proceeding, claim, examination, or assessment is currently pending or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened or proposed. No claim has been made in writing by a Governmental Entity in a jurisdiction where Parent or any Parent Subsidiary does not file Tax Returns such that Parent or any Parent Subsidiary is or may be subject to taxation by that jurisdiction.
(i) Neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries (i) has any liability for the Taxes of any Person, other than Parent or the Parent Subsidiaries, under Treasury Regulation 1 1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of state, local or foreign Law) or as a transferee or successor or (ii) has entered into or is subject, directly or indirectly, to any Tax Protection Arrangement, Tax sharing agreement, Tax indemnification agreement or similar contract or arrangement except as set forth on Section 4.14(i) of the Parent Disclosure Letter.
(j) Neither Parent nor any Parent Subsidiary has constituted either a distributing corporation or a controlled corporation (within the meaning of Section 355(a)(1)(A) of the Code) in a distribution of stock qualifying for tax-free treatment under Section 355 of the Code (i) in the two (2) years prior to the date of this Agreement or (ii) in a distribution which could otherwise constitute part of a plan or series of related transactions (within the meaning of Section 355(e) of the Code) in conjunction with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(k) Parent and each Parent Subsidiary has disclosed to the IRS on the appropriate Tax Returns any Reportable Transaction, as defined in Treasury Regulation § 1.6011-4(b), in which it has participated. Parent and each Parent Subsidiary has retained all documents and other records pertaining to any Reportable Transaction in which it has participated, in accordance with Treasury Regulation § 1.6011-4(g).
(l) Parent and each Parent Subsidiary has disclosed on their federal income Tax Returns all positions taken therein which could give rise to a substantial understatement of income Tax under Section 6662 of the Code.
(m) There are no Encumbrances for Taxes upon the assets of Parent or the Parent Subsidiaries except for Taxes not yet due and payable.
(n) Neither Parent nor any other Person on its behalf has (i) agreed to or is required to make any adjustments pursuant to Section 481(a) of the Code or any similar provision of Law or has any Knowledge
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that any Governmental Entity has proposed any such adjustment, or has any application pending with any Governmental Entity requesting permission for any changes in accounting methods that relate to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, (ii) executed or entered into a closing agreement pursuant to Section 7121 of the Code or any similar provision of Law with respect to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, (iii) requested any extension of time within which to file any Tax Return, which Tax Return has since not been filed, (iv) granted any extension of the statute of limitations for the assessment or collection of Taxes, or otherwise entered into or filed any agreements, arrangements, waivers or objections extending the statutory period or providing for an extension of time with respect to the assessment or reassessment of Taxes or the filing of any Tax Return, or any payment of Taxes, (v) granted to any Person any power of attorney that is currently in force with respect to any Tax matter, or (vi) received a ruling from any Governmental Entity in respect of Taxes or signed an agreement in respect of Taxes with any Governmental Entity.
Section 4.15. Pension and Benefit Plans; ERISA.
(a) Section 4.15(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter sets forth (i) all employee benefit plans, as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, and all material employee compensation and benefit plans, policies, arrangements or payroll practices, including, without limitation, severance pay, severance agreements, employment agreements, sick leave, vacation pay, salary continuation for disability, consulting or other compensation agreements, retirement, deferred compensation, bonus (including, without limitation, any retention bonus plan), long-term incentive, stock option, stock purchase, hospitalization, medical insurance, life insurance and scholarship programs maintained by Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries or with respect to which Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries has any liability; and (ii) all employee pension benefit plans, as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA, maintained or contributed to by Parent or any trade or business (whether or not incorporated) which is under common control, or which is treated as a single employer, with Parent under Section 4.14(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Code (a Parent ERISA Affiliate) or to which Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries or any Parent ERISA Affiliate contributed or is obligated to contribute thereunder within six years prior to the Closing (the Parent Pension Plans) (all such plans listed in clauses (i) and (ii) being hereinafter referred to as the Parent Employee Benefit Plans).
(b) True and complete copies of each Parent Employee Benefit Plan, related trust (or other funding or financing arrangement) and all amendments thereto have been made available to Parent, as have the most recent summary plan descriptions, administrative service agreements, investment management or advisory agreements, audit reports, fidelity bonds, and fiduciary liability policies for such Parent Employee Benefit Plans, as well as (i) Form 5500s for each Parent Employee Benefit Plan for each of the past three (3) years, (ii) all material correspondence with any Governmental Entity relating to any Parent Employee Benefit Plan, and (iii) with respect to any Parent Employee Benefit Plan intended to be qualified pursuant to Section 401(a) of the Code, a current IRS determination letter.
(c) All individual employment, consulting, termination, severance, change in control, retention, bonus, post employment and other compensation agreements, arrangements and plans existing prior to the execution of this Agreement or which will exist prior to the Closing, which are between Parent or a Parent Subsidiary and any current or former trustee, director, officer or employee thereof, including the name of such current or former trustee, director, officer or employee, the type of agreement and the amount of any estimated severance payment (including estimated gross-up, if applicable) owed thereunder due to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and any subsequent termination of employment, are listed in Section 4.15(c) of the Parent Disclosure Letter (collectively, the Parent Employment Agreements).
(d) Parent Pension Plans intended to qualify under Section 401 of the Code have received a favorable determination letter from the IRS and such determination has not been modified, revoked or limited, and, to the Knowledge of Parent as of the Closing Date, nothing has occurred with respect to the operation of the Parent Pension Plans that could reasonably be expected to cause the loss of such qualification or the imposition of any material liability, penalty or Tax under ERISA or the Code.
(e) Except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect or except as disclosed in Section 4.15(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter:
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(i) All Parent Employee Benefit Plans have been maintained in accordance with their express terms and with all provisions of ERISA and the Code (including rules and regulations thereunder) and other applicable Law.
(ii) None of the Parent Pension Plans is a multiemployer plan, as defined in Section 3(37) of ERISA (Parent Multiemployer Plan), and neither Parent nor any Parent ERISA Affiliate has at any time in the past sponsored, contributed to any such Parent Multiemployer Plan, or has any liabilities with respect to any such Parent Multiemployer Plan.
(iii) Neither Parent nor any Parent ERISA Affiliate has ever maintained, sponsored, contributed to or otherwise incurred any present or contingent liability with respect to any single-employer plan, as defined in Section 4001(a)(15) of ERISA, and neither Parent nor any Parent ERISA Affiliate has any present or contingent liability under Title IV of ERISA to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or to a trustee appointed under Section 4042 of ERISA, and no events have occurred and no circumstances exist that could reasonably be expected to result in any such liability to Parent or any Parent ERISA Affiliate.
(iv) There is no liability for breaches of fiduciary duty in connection with Parent Employee Benefit Plans, and neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries or any party in interest or disqualified person with respect to Parent Employee Benefit Plans has engaged in a non-exempt prohibited transaction within the meaning of Section 4975 of the Code or Section 406 of ERISA.
(v) There are no actions, disputes, suits, claims, arbitration or legal, administrative or other proceeding or governmental investigation pending (other than routine claims for benefits) or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened, alleging any breach of the terms of any Parent Employee Benefit Plan or of any fiduciary duties thereunder or violation of any applicable Law with respect to any such Parent Employee Benefit Plan.
(vi) All contributions, premiums and other payments required by Law or any Parent Employee Benefit Plan or applicable collective bargaining agreement have been made under any such plan to any fund, trust or account established thereunder or in connection therewith by the due date thereof, and no amounts are or will be due to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation as of the Closing Date (except for premiums in the ordinary course of business, which will be payable by Parent); and any and all contributions, premiums and other payments with respect to compensation or service before and through the Closing Date, or otherwise with respect to periods before and through the Closing Date, due from any of Parent or its Parent ERISA Affiliates to, under or on account of each Parent Employee Benefit Plan shall have been paid prior to the Closing Date or shall have been fully reserved and provided for or accrued on Parent financial statements.
(vii) Parent and Parent ERISA Affiliates have complied with the requirements of Section 4980B of the Code and Parts 6 and 7 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA regarding health care coverage under Parent Employee Benefit Plans.
(viii) No amount has been paid by Parent or any Parent Subsidiaries, and no amount is expected to be paid by Parent or any Parent Subsidiaries, which would be subject to the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Code such that all or a part of such payments would not be deductible by the payor.
(ix) Each Parent Employee Benefit Plan may be unilaterally amended or terminated in its entirety by Parent except as to benefits accrued thereunder prior to amendment or termination and except for the rights of third-party administrators under Parents Contracts with such administrators, which Contracts have been previously provided to the Company.
(f) Except as set forth in Section 4.15(f) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, whether alone, or in connection with any other event, will (i) result in any payment (including, but not limited to, any retention bonuses, parachute payments or noncompetition payments) becoming due to any employee or former employee or group of employees or former employees of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries; (ii) increase any benefits otherwise payable under any Parent Employee Benefit Plan or any Parent Employment Agreement; (iii) result in the acceleration of the time of payment or vesting of any Parent Options or any
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other rights or benefits; or (iv) result in the payment of any excess parachute payment within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code with respect to a current or former employee of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
Section 4.16. Labor and Employment Matters. Except as to clauses (b), (c), (e) and (f) of this Section 4.16, which, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect:
(a) Neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries is a party to any collective bargaining agreement or other current labor agreement with any labor union or organization, and there is no question involving current union representation of employees of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries, nor does Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries have any Knowledge of any activity or proceeding of any labor organization (or representative thereof) or employee group (or representative thereof) to organize any such employees.
(b) There is no unfair labor practice charge or grievance arising out of a collective bargaining agreement or other grievance procedure pending, or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened against Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
(c) There is no complaint, lawsuit or proceeding in any forum by or on behalf of any present or former employee, any applicant for employment or any classes of the foregoing, or any written threat to initiate any of the foregoing, alleging breach of any express or implied contract of employment, any Law or regulation governing employment or the termination thereof or other discriminatory, wrongful or tortious conduct in connection with the employment relationship pending, or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened against Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
(d) There is no strike, slowdown, work stoppage or lockout pending, or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened, against or involving Parent, any of the Parent Subsidiaries, or any Parent Development Property.
(e) Parent and each of the Parent Subsidiaries are in compliance with all applicable Laws in respect of employment and employment practices, terms and conditions of employment, wages, hours of work and occupational safety and health.
(f) As of the date of this Agreement, there is no proceeding, claim, suit, action or governmental investigation pending or, to the Knowledge of Parent, threatened, with respect to which any current or former trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries is claiming indemnification from Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
Section 4.17. Contracts.
(a) As of the date hereof, Section 4.17(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter lists all Material Contracts of Parent and all Parent Subsidiaries, other than those Material Contracts filed as exhibits to the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement. Except as set forth in Section 4.17(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or as set forth in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, each Material Contract of Parent or a Parent Subsidiary is valid, binding and enforceable and in full force and effect and there are no defaults or violations thereunder by Parent or the Parent Subsidiaries party thereto or, to Parents Knowledge, any other party thereto, nor does there exist any condition which upon the passage of time or the giving of notice or both would cause such a violation of or a default thereunder, except those defaults or violations that have not and would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Parent Material Adverse Effect. Parent has made available, or caused to be made available, to the Company true and complete copies of each Material Contract and all ancillary documents pertaining thereto.
(b) All mortgages, deeds of trust, loan agreements or other similar documents encumbering any of the assets, or to which Parent or a Parent Subsidiary is a party, are listed in Section 4.17(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter; and Section 4.17(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter also identifies each interest rate cap, interest rate collar, interest rate swap, currency hedging transaction and any other agreement relating to a similar transaction to which Parent or a Parent Subsidiary is a party. The transactions contemplated hereby and by the Transaction Documents will not trigger any due-on-sale provision on any of such mortgages, deeds of trust, loan agreements or other documents or agreements, except as set forth in Section 4.17(b) of
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the Parent Disclosure Letter, and will not require the consent of any lender or other Person, except as set forth in Section 4.17(b) of the Parent Disclosure Letter.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 4.17(c) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, there is no confidentiality agreement, non-competition agreement or other contract or agreement that contains covenants that materially restrict Parents or any of the Parent Subsidiaries ability to conduct its business in any location.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 4.17(d) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, there are no indemnification agreements entered into by and between Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries and any trustee, director or officer of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries.
(e) All joint venture agreements applicable to Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries are listed in Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or are filed as exhibits to the Parent SEC Documents. The transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Transaction Documents will not trigger any termination, buy-sell, transfer, option, right of first refusal, right of first offer, tag-along or any similar right by any party under any of such joint venture agreements, except as set forth in Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, and will not require the consent of any joint venture partner, except as set forth in Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter. Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter discloses the ownership interests in each joint venture; the capital accounts of each partner or member of each joint venture; any outstanding loans by a partner or member to a joint venture; and any capital calls made by a partner or member in a joint venture, but not fully funded as of the date of this Agreement.
(f) Except as set forth in Section 4.17(f) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or except as disclosed in the Parent SEC Documents, none of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement relating to the management of any Parent Property by any Person other than Parent or a Parent Subsidiary.
(g) None of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement pursuant to which Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries manages or provides services with respect to any real properties other than Parent Properties, except for the agreements listed in Section 4.17(g) of the Parent Disclosure Letter or filed as exhibits to the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement. No party to any such agreement has given written notice of its intention to terminate or cancel any such agreements except where such termination or cancellation would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
(h) Section 4.17(h) of the Parent Disclosure Letter lists all agreements entered into by Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries providing for the sale of, or option to sell, any Parent Properties or the purchase of, or option to purchase, by Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries, on the one hand, or the other party thereto, on the other hand, any real estate not yet consummated as of the date hereof except where such termination or cancellation would not have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
(i) Section 4.17(i) of the Parent Disclosure Letter lists all agreements entered into by Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries with any investment bankers or financial advisors that are currently in effect.
Section 4.18. Intellectual Property. All Parent Intellectual Property is owned or licensed by Parent or the Parent Subsidiaries free and clear of any and all Encumbrances, except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect, and neither Parent nor any such Parent Subsidiary has forfeited or otherwise relinquished any Parent Intellectual Property, except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.19. Insurance. Section 4.19 of the Parent Disclosure Letter sets forth a true, correct and complete schedule of the insurance policies (including the type, amount of coverage and premiums and expiration dates of such policies) held by, or for the benefit of, Parent, the Parent Subsidiaries and any Parent Property Owner. Parent or the applicable Parent Subsidiary has paid, or caused to be paid, all premiums due under such policies and is not in default with respect to any obligations under such policies in any material respect. Section 4.19 of the Parent Disclosure Letter also includes a list of five years of loss runs for every line of insurance, including large-loss descriptions on any such policies. None of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries has received any insurance company notice of any material defects or deficiencies affecting the insurability of Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries or any of their respective assets thereunder. Except as set forth in Section 4.19 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, (i) neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries
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has received any written notice of cancellation or termination with respect to any existing insurance policy held by or for the benefit of Parent, any of the Parent Subsidiaries or any Parent Property Owner, and (ii) there are no outstanding or to Parents Knowledge, threatened, requirements for any repairs or alterations to be made to any Parent Property by any (x) insurance company that has issued an insurance policy covering any Parent Property, or (y) board of fire underwriters or other body exercising similar functions. Parent and Parent Subsidiaries maintain insurance in form and amount and with carriers that meet requirements for insurance included in loan agreements and other Material Contracts.
Section 4.20. Brokers. Except for the fees and expenses payable to the Parent Financial Advisor (which engagement letter with respect to the Parent Financial Advisor has been made available to the Company), no broker, investment banker or other Person is entitled to any brokers, finders or other similar fee or commission in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Documents based upon arrangements made by or on behalf of Parent, for which fee or commission Parent or any Parent Subsidiary may be liable.
Section 4.21. Related Party Transactions. Except as disclosed in the Parent SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement or as set forth in Section 4.21 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, there are no arrangements, agreements or contracts entered into by Parent or any of the Parent Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and any Person who is an officer, trustee, director or Affiliate of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, any relative of the foregoing or an entity of which any of the foregoing is an Affiliate or an Associate, on the other hand. Copies of all such documents listed on Section 4.21 of the Parent Disclosure Letter have been made available to the Company.
Section 4.22. Opinion of Financial Advisor. The Parent Board has received the written opinion of the Parent Financial Advisor to the effect that, based on, and subject to the various assumptions, limitations and qualifications set forth in such opinion, as of the date of such opinion, the Parent and Parent L.P. consideration to be paid for the pro forma Company in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (and certain related agreements with Prudential) is fair from a financial point of view to Parent. A copy of the written opinion of the Parent Financial Advisor will be delivered to Company.
Section 4.23. Investment Company Act of 1940. Neither Parent nor any of the Parent Subsidiaries is, or on the Closing Date will be, required to be registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
Section 4.24. Board Recommendation. The Parent Board, at a meeting duly called and held, has, by unanimous vote of all its members, (i) determined that this Agreement and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are advisable, fair to and in the best interests of Parent and the shareholders of Parent, and (ii) resolved to recommend that the holders of Parent Common Shares approve and adopt this Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the REIT Merger.
Section 4.25. Inapplicability of Takeover Statutes, Rights Agreement and Certain Charter and By-law Provisions.
(a) Parent has taken all action required to be taken by it in order to exempt this Agreement and the REIT Merger from, and this Agreement and the REIT Merger are exempt from Takeover Statutes, including the Maryland Business Combination Act and Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act and any takeover provision in the Parent Organizational Documents.
(b) Parent and the Parent Board have taken all appropriate and necessary actions to render any and all limitations on ownership of (i) Parent Common Shares and Parents preferred shares as set forth in Parents Declaration of Trust and (2) partnership interests in Parent L.P. as set forth in the Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement, including the Ownership Limit (as defined in Parents Declaration of Trust), inapplicable to the REIT Merger, the OP Merger, the Transaction Documents and the other transactions contemplated thereby.
Section 4.26. Information Supplied by Parent.
(a) The information supplied or to be supplied by Parent for inclusion or incorporation in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and any other documents filed with the SEC in connection herewith, will not, at
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the time the Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC, on the date the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus is first mailed to shareholders of Parent and first mailed to shareholders of Parent, or at the time of either of the Company Shareholders Meeting or Parent Shareholders Meeting, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The Parent Proxy Statement included in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus will, at the time of the Parent Shareholders Meeting, comply as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act.
(b) The information supplied or to be supplied by Parent for inclusion or incorporation in the Partner Exchange Materials will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, Parent makes no representations or warranties with respect to information that has been or will be supplied by the Company, or their auditors, attorneys, financial advisers, other consultants or advisers, specifically for use in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
Section 4.27. Merger Sub. Neither Merger Sub nor L.P. Merger Sub has incurred nor will it incur any liabilities or obligations, except those incurred in connection with its organization and with the negotiation of this Agreement and the performance hereof, and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, including the REIT Merger and the OP Merger. Except as contemplated by this Agreement, including by Article X, neither Merger Sub nor L.P. Merger Sub has engaged in any business activities of any type or kind whatsoever, or entered into any agreements or arrangements with any person or entity, or become subject to or bound by any obligation or undertaking. As of the date hereof, and except as set forth in Section 4.27 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, all of the issued and outstanding equity interests of Merger Sub are owned beneficially and of record by Parent L.P., free and clear of all Encumbrances (other than those created by this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby). As of the date hereof, and except as set forth in Section 4.27 of the Parent Disclosure Letter, all of the issued and outstanding equity interests of L.P. Merger Sub are owned beneficially and of record by Parent L.P., free and clear of all Encumbrances (other than those created by this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby).
Section 4.28. Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act. The transactions contemplated hereby are exempt from any requirement to make any filings under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, and the implementing regulations thereto, 16 C.F.R. parts 801-803, because (a) the Parent is a REIT; and (b) the Parent has determined that the aggregate fair market value of the non-exempt assets of the Parent and entities controlled by Parent, is less than $53.1 million.
ARTICLE V
Covenants Relating to Conduct of Business
Section 5.01. Conduct of Business by the Company.
(a) Conduct of Business by the Company and the Company Subsidiaries. Except with respect to the sale of the Subject Properties at a price for each Subject Property no less than the price set forth next to the name of such Subject Property on Section 5.01(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter or for matters set forth in Section 5.01(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter or as contemplated by the Company SEC Documents or otherwise expressly permitted by this Agreement, from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, the Company and the Company Subsidiaries shall conduct their business in the usual, regular and ordinary course in substantially the same manner as previously conducted (except as otherwise contemplated by the corporate budget included in Section 5.01 of the Company Disclosure Letter (the Company Corporate Budget)), and use their commercially reasonable efforts to preserve their current business organization, assets and technology, keep available the services of their current officers and employees and maintain their relationships with tenants, customers, joint venture partners, collaborators, suppliers, licensors, licensees, distributors and others having business dealings with them. In addition, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, except in connection with the sale of the Subject Properties at a price for each Subject Property no less than the price set forth next to the name of such Subject Property
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on Section 5.01(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter or for matters set forth in Section 5.01(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter or as contemplated by the Company SEC Documents or otherwise expressly permitted by this Agreement, from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, the Company and the Company Subsidiaries shall not authorize, commit or agree to do any of the following without the prior written consent of Parent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned:
(i) (A) other than (x) as permitted pursuant to Section 6.11 or pursuant to Section 10.03 or for dividends from a wholly owned Subsidiary to its parent entity or (y) for distributions pursuant to the joint venture agreements identified on Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter, declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other distributions in respect of, any of their shares of beneficial interest (including Company Common Shares) or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Company L.P. Units, (B) split, combine or reclassify any of their shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Company L.P. Units, (C) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire (other than in connection with (1) the conversion or redemption of the Company Series D Preferred Shares in accordance with their terms or the conversion or redemption of Company L.P. Units outstanding on the date hereof in accordance with their terms (and solely for the REIT Shares Amount (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement)), (2) the redemption of Company Common Shares under the Charter in order to preserve the status of the Company as a REIT under the Code, (3) the exercise of Company Options outstanding on the date hereof in accordance with their terms or (4) the use of Company Common Shares to pay the exercise price or tax withholding in connection with equity-based employee benefit plans by the participants therein) any shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Company L.P. Units, of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries or any other securities thereof or any rights, warrants or options to acquire any such shares or other securities, (D) take any action the result of which is that the Company acquires, forms or creates a Subsidiary of the Company or (E) except as permitted in Section 5.01(a)(iv), take any action the result of which is that the Company or a Company Subsidiary acquires or otherwise owns any equity interest in any other Person other than the Company Subsidiaries identified in Section 3.02(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter;
(ii) Other than issuances of Company Common Shares in connection with (1) the conversion of the Company Series D Preferred Shares in accordance with their terms or the redemption or conversion of Company L.P. Units outstanding on the date hereof in accordance with their terms (and solely for the REIT Shares Amount (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement)), (2) the exercise of Company Options outstanding on the date hereof in accordance with their terms or (3) the Company Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan or the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan (provided that all such issuances shall be subject to Section 6.21 below), issue, deliver, sell, pledge, grant or otherwise encumber (A) any Company Common Shares or any other shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, (B) any Voting Debt or other voting securities, (C) any securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or any options, warrants, calls or rights to acquire, any such shares or capital stock, Voting Debt, voting securities or convertible or exchangeable securities or (D) any phantom stock, phantom stock rights, stock appreciation rights, stock-based performance units, or other rights or interests based on or linked to the value of Company Common Shares;
(iii) except to the extent required to comply with applicable Law and except for changes or amendments to reflect the conversion or redemption of the Company Series D Preferred Shares in accordance with their terms or the redemption or exchange of Company L.P. Units in accordance with their terms or as provided in Section 1.11, amend the Company Organizational Documents or any organizational documents of any Company Subsidiary including, without limitation, Company L.P.;
(iv) except as provided in Section 5.01(a)(x), directly or indirectly acquire or agree to acquire (A) by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing all or a portion of the assets of, or equity interests in, or by any other manner, any business or any corporation, partnership, trust, joint venture, association or other business organization or division thereof or (B) any assets, in each case other than purchases in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $1,000,000 individually or $5,000,000 in the aggregate or as otherwise specifically provided for in the Company Corporate Budget;
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(v) except as required by applicable Law or written contractual commitments existing on the date hereof and that are disclosed on Section 5.01(a)(v) of the Company Disclosure Letter or as otherwise disclosed on Section 5.01(a)(v) of the Company Disclosure Letter, (A) increase the compensation or benefits payable or to become payable to the trustees, directors, officers or employees of the Company, any Company Subsidiary or any Affiliate thereof; provided that, without the Parents consent, between the date of this Agreement and the Closing Date, the Company shall be permitted to increase the compensation payable to employees of the Company, any Company Subsidiary or any Affiliate thereof by up to, in the aggregate for all employees, $100,000, (B) establish, adopt, enter into or amend any collective bargaining, bonus, profit sharing, thrift, compensation, employment, termination, severance, stock incentive or other plan, agreement, trust, fund, policy or arrangement for the benefit of any trustee, director, officer or employee, except as provided in this Agreement or to the extent required by Law, (C) increase the benefits payable under any existing severance or termination pay policies or employment or other agreements (except that the Company Board or Compensation Committee thereof may provide for vesting of the Company Options outstanding on the Closing Date by reason of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby), (D) make any material determinations not in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice under any collective bargaining agreement or Company Employee Benefit Plan, (E) amend or modify any Company Incentive Plan, other than pursuant to the provisions of Sections 1.08 or 6.05 hereof, (F) grant or promise any tax offset payment award under any Company Incentive Plan, (G) except in the ordinary course of business, make any loan or cash advance to, or engage in any transaction with, any current or former trustee, director, officer or employee or (H) make any loan or cash advance to any current or former consultant or independent contractor;
(vi) (A) enter into any employment, consulting or severance agreement with or grant any severance or termination pay to any officer, trustee or director of the Company or any Company Subsidiary or enter into any material employment, consulting or severance agreement with or grant any material severance or termination pay to any employee who is not an officer of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, (B) hire or agree to hire any new or additional employees or officers other than employees hired in the ordinary course of business, consistent with past practice who are not hired as officers of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, provided, however, that if any non-officer employee of the Company or any Company Subsidiary who is not a party to an employment agreement or other similar agreement resigns after the date hereof but prior to Closing, such entity may hire a person to replace such employee on substantially similar terms consistent with past practice, provided that the Company or any Company Subsidiary does not enter into any employment, consulting or severance agreement with such new hire, or (C) otherwise enter into, amend or modify any material agreement or arrangement with any person that is an Affiliate of the Company (other than agreements with Company Subsidiaries) or, as of the date of this Agreement, is an employee, officer, trustee or director of the Company or any Company Subsidiary;
(vii) make any material change in accounting methods, principles or practices of the Company or Company Subsidiaries, except as may be required by a change in industry practice, Law, GAAP or by a Governmental Entity;
(viii) directly or indirectly transfer, sell, lease (as lessor) (other than as provided in Section 5.01(a)(x)(D)), license, sell and leaseback, mortgage or otherwise dispose of or encumber or subject to any Encumbrance any properties or assets or any interest therein, except sales in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $3,000,000 in one transaction or series of related transactions or as otherwise specifically provided for in the Company Corporate Budget, or enter into or amend, modify or terminate any Material Contract or waive, release or assign any material rights or claims thereunder.
(ix) (A) except with respect to arrangements made with respect to the defeasance of the PPREFI Portfolio Loan, the loan secured by the Company Property known as Corporetum and prepayment of debt related to loans secured by the Subject Properties (in each case including any prepayment penalties, legal costs or defeasance costs) in accordance with the applicable loan documents in effect as of the date of this Agreement and except to meet the current cash needs of the Company and Company Subsidiaries not exceeding the amount provided for in the Company Corporate Budget for the period specified therein, incur any indebtedness (including the $135,000,000 proposed loan to be secured by the Barton Skyway I-IV
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property (the Proposed Barton Skyway Loan)) or guarantee any indebtedness of another Person, issue or sell any debt securities or warrants or other rights to acquire any debt securities, guarantee any debt securities of another Person, enter into any keep well or other agreement to maintain any financial statement condition of another Person or enter into any arrangement having the economic effect of any of the foregoing except as needed for the conversion, redemption or exchange of the Company Series D Preferred Shares or Company L.P. Units in accordance with their terms or (B) except as disclosed in the Development Budget and Schedule or in Section 5.01(a)(ix) of the Company Disclosure Letter, make any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other Person, except loans or investments by the Company or a wholly owned Company Subsidiary to or in the Company or any wholly owned Company Subsidiary;
(x) except as disclosed in the Development Budget and Schedule or in Section 5.01(a)(x) of the Company Disclosure Letter, (A) enter into any commitments obligating the Company or any Company Subsidiary to make capital expenditures in excess of $500,000 individually or $2,000,000 in the aggregate, not including tenant allowances under new or existing leases, (B) acquire, enter into any option to acquire, or exercise an option or other right or election or enter into any other commitment or contractual obligation (each, a Commitment) for, the acquisition of any real property or other transaction in excess of $1,000,000 individually or $3,500,000 in the aggregate (provided that with respect to the projects identified in Section 5.01(a)(x) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company shall be authorized to incur predevelopment expenditures not in excess of $750,000 per individual project and $2,500,000 in the aggregate), (C) commence construction of, or enter into any Commitment to develop or construct, other real estate projects involving in excess of $3,500,000, or (D) enter into or amend or waive rights of the Company or any Company Subsidiary under any lease in excess of 25,000 square feet or incur or commit to incur any tenant allowances or landlord funded construction expenditures related thereto; provided that, if Parent fails to respond to any request made in writing by the Company to approve any of the lease transactions described in this Section 5.01(a)(x)(D) within two business days from such request, such request will be deemed to have been agreed to by Parent.
(xi) (A) settle or compromise any material Tax liability or waive or extend the statute of limitations with respect to any Taxes of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, (B) take or omit to take any action that could cause the termination or revocation of the Companys REIT status or the status of any Company Subsidiary as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes where such Company Subsidiary presently files Tax Returns as a partnership or the status of any Company Subsidiary as a REIT where such Company Subsidiary has elected to be taxed as a REIT, (C) make or rescind any material election relating to Taxes of the Company or any Company Subsidiary, except as provided in the preceding clause (B) or (D) enter into, or permit any Company Subsidiary to enter into, any Tax Protection Arrangement;
(xii) (A) settle or compromise any claim, litigation or other legal proceeding, other than those wholly-covered by insurance or in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $200,000 individually or $1,000,000 in the aggregate (and other than settlement of tenant receivables disclosed in Section 5.01(a)(xii) of the Company Disclosure Letter), (B) pay, discharge, settle or satisfy any claims (including claims of shareholders), liabilities or obligations (absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), other than the payment, discharge or satisfaction in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice or as required by their terms in effect on the date of this Agreement of claims, liabilities or obligations reflected or reserved against in the most recent audited consolidated financial statements (or the notes thereto) of the Company included in the Company SEC Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement (for amounts not in excess of such reserves) or incurred since the date of such audited financial statements in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, (C) cancel any indebtedness or waive, release, grant or transfer any claims or rights of material value or (D) waive any benefit of, or agree to modify in any adverse respect, or fail to enforce, or consent to any matter with respect to which its consent is required under, any confidentiality, standstill or similar agreement to which the Company is a party unless Company simultaneously and similarly waives any such similar provisions applicable to Parent or its Affiliates;
(xiii) in connection with any Company Development Property, fail to diligently pursue the development, rehabilitation, renovation, addition or expansion of each such Company Development Property
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in a manner that is (i) in accordance with the Companys past development practices and (ii) consistent in all material respects with the applicable Development Budget and Schedule;
(xiv) commence any lawsuit, arbitration or any administrative proceeding against any Third Party, excluding actions brought in the ordinary course of business; provided that with respect to the Company Properties identified in Section 5.01(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter, the Company shall not authorize, commit or agree to commence any lawsuit, arbitration or any administrative proceeding against any Third Party, excluding, for purposes of this proviso, (A) actions against tenants under Space Leases in such properties that do not involve eviction proceedings or (B) actions to enforce any contractual rights;
(xv) make any payments or incur any liability or obligation for the purpose of obtaining any consent from any person to the REIT Merger or the OP Merger;
(xvi) permit any insurance policy naming the Company or any Company Subsidiary as a beneficiary or a loss payable payee to be canceled or terminated without notice to Parent unless such entity shall have obtained, prior to or simultaneous with such cancellation or termination, an insurance policy with substantially similar terms and conditions to the canceled or terminated policy; or
(xvii) take any action that would reasonably be expected to (A) result in any condition to the REIT Merger set forth in Article VII not being satisfied in all material respects or (B) prevent, materially delay or materially impede the consummation of the REIT Merger or the OP Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement or (C) result in (i) any representation and warranty of the Company and Company L.P. set forth in this Agreement that is qualified as to materiality becoming untrue or (ii) any such representation and warranty that is not so qualified becoming untrue in any material respect.
(b) Notice of Changes; Filings. Each party shall confer with the other party on a regular and frequent basis to report on operational matters and other matters reasonably requested by such party. Parent and the Company shall promptly advise the other orally and in writing of any change or event that could reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect or Parent Material Adverse Effect, as applicable. The Company and Parent shall each promptly provide the other copies of all filings made by such party with any Governmental Entity in connection with this Agreement and the Transactions, other than the portions of such filings, if any, that include confidential information not directly related to the Transactions.
(c) Certain Tax Matters. During the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, the Company shall, and shall cause each Company Subsidiary to, (i) furnish all material Tax Returns required to be filed by the Company or any Company Subsidiary after the date hereof (Post-Signing Returns) to Parent for review and comment at least twenty (20) days before the due date for such Tax Returns and shall promptly file such Tax Returns after receiving approval from Parent, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned; (ii) timely pay all Taxes due and payable by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries in respect of such Post-Signing Returns that are so filed, other than those being contested in good faith for which appropriate reserves have been made; (iii) accrue a reserve in the books and records and financial statements of the Company in accordance with past practice for all projected Taxes payable by the Company for which no Post-Signing Return is due prior to the Effective Time; and (iv) promptly notify Parent of any suit, claim, action, investigation, proceeding or audit (collectively, Actions) pending against or with respect to the Company in respect of any Tax and not settle or compromise any such Action without Parents prior written consent.
Section 5.02. Conduct of Business by Parent. Except for matters expressly permitted by this Agreement or as contemplated by the Parent SEC Documents, from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, the Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries shall conduct their business in the usual, regular and ordinary course in substantially the same manner as previously conducted (except as otherwise contemplated by the corporate budget included in Section 5.02 of the Parent Disclosure Letter (the Parent Corporate Budget)) and use their commercially reasonable efforts to preserve their current business organization, assets and technology, keep available the services of their current officers and employees and maintain their relationships with tenants, customers, joint venture partners, collaborators, suppliers, licensors, licensees, distributors and others having business dealings with them. In addition, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, except for matters expressly permitted by this Agreement or as contemplated by the Parent
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SEC Documents, from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, Parent and its Subsidiaries shall not do any of the following without the prior written consent of the Company, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned:
(i) Except as set forth in Section 5.02(a)(i) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, (A) other than (x) as permitted pursuant to Section 6.11 or for dividends from a wholly owned Subsidiary to its parent entity or (y) for distributions pursuant to the joint venture agreements identified on Section 4.17(e) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other distributions in respect of, any of their shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Parent Class A Units, (B) split, combine or reclassify any of their shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Parent Class A Units, (C) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire (other than in connection with (1) the redemption of the Parent Series C Preferred Shares, Parent Series D Preferred Shares or Parent Class A Units in accordance with their terms, (2) the redemption of Parent Common Shares under the Parent charter in order to preserve the status of Parent as a REIT under the Code, (3) the exercise of Parent Options in accordance with their terms or (4) the use of Parent Common Shares to pay the exercise price or tax withholding in connection with equity-based employee benefit plans by the participants therein or to fund any transactions pursuant to Parents dividend reinvestment and share purchase plan) any shares of beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, including, without limitation, Parent Class A Units, of Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries or any other securities thereof or any rights, warrants or options to acquire any such shares or other securities, (D) take any action the result of which is that Parent acquires, forms or creates a Subsidiary of Parent or (E) take any action the result of which is that Parent or a Parent Subsidiary acquires or otherwise owns any equity interest in any other Person;
(ii) Other than in connection with (1) the exercise of Parent Options in accordance with their terms or (2) issuances and deliveries pursuant to any Parent dividend reinvestment or share purchase program or (3) the redemption or exchange of Parent Class A Units, issue, deliver, sell, pledge, grant or otherwise encumber (A) any shares of their beneficial interest or capital stock or other ownership interests, (B) any Voting Debt or other voting securities, (C) any securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or any options, warrants, calls or rights to acquire, any such shares or capital stock, Voting Debt, voting securities or convertible or exchangeable securities or (D) any phantom stock, phantom stock rights, stock appreciation rights, stock-based performance units, or other rights or interests based on or linked to the value of Parent Common Shares except as set forth in Section 5.02(a)(ii) of the Parent Disclosure Letter;
(iii) except to the extent required to comply with applicable Law, to increase the authorized shares of beneficial interest of Parent or to provide for the issuance of Parent Class A Units or the Parent Series E Preferred Shares as described in this Agreement, amend Parents Declaration of Trust or by-laws or amend the Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement or the organizational documents of any Parent Subsidiary including, without limitation, Parent L.P.;
(iv) Except as set forth in Section 5.02(a)(iv) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, directly or indirectly acquire or agree to acquire (A) by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing all or a portion of the assets of, or equity interests in, or by any other manner, any business or any corporation, partnership, trust, joint venture, association or other business organization or division thereof or (B) any assets, in each case other than purchases in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice in an amount not involving more than $1,000,000 individually or $5,000,000 in the aggregate or as otherwise provided for in the Parent Corporate Budget;
(v) make any material change in accounting methods, principles or practices of Parent or Parent Subsidiaries, except as may be required by a change in industry practice, Law, GAAP or by a Governmental Entity;
(vi) (A) settle or compromise any material Tax liability or waive or extend the statute of limitations with respect to any Taxes of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary, (B) take or omit to take any action that could cause the termination or revocation of Parents REIT status or the status of any Parent Subsidiary as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes where such Parent Subsidiary presently files Tax Returns as a partnership or the status of any Parent Subsidiary as a REIT where such Parent Subsidiary has
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elected to be taxed as a REIT or (C) make or rescind any material election relating to Taxes of Parent or any Parent Subsidiary; or
(vii) take any action that would reasonably be expected to (A) result in any condition to the REIT Merger or the OP Merger set forth in Article VII not being satisfied in all material respects or (B) prevent, materially delay or materially impede the consummation of the REIT Merger or the OP Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 5.03. Control of Other Partys Business. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall give the Company, directly or indirectly, the right to control or direct Parents operations or give Parent, directly or indirectly, the right to control or direct the Companys operations prior to the Effective Time. Prior to the Effective Time, Parent and the Company shall exercise, consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, complete control and supervision over its respective operations.
ARTICLE VI
Additional Agreements
Section 6.01. Preparation of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus; Shareholder Meetings.
(a) As promptly as practicable after the execution of this Agreement, the Company and Parent shall prepare and file with the SEC a joint proxy statement in preliminary form relating to the Company Shareholders Meeting and the Parent Shareholders Meeting and, in connection therewith, Parent shall prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) (together, the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus) and each of Parent and the Company shall use their reasonable best efforts to respond to comments, if any, of the SEC as promptly as practicable, and cause the Registration Statement to become effective under the Securities Act as soon after such filing as practicable and to keep the Registration Statement effective as long as necessary to consummate the REIT Merger. The Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus shall include the recommendation of the Company Board in favor of approval and adoption of this Agreement and the REIT Merger, except to the extent the Company Board shall have withdrawn or modified its approval or recommendation of this Agreement as permitted by Section 6.04(e). The parties shall promptly provide copies, consult with each other and prepare written responses with respect to any written comments received from the SEC with respect to the Joint Proxy Statement/ Prospectus and advise one another of any oral comments received from the SEC. The Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus shall comply as to form in all material respects with the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, respectively.
(b) Parent and the Company shall make all necessary filings with respect to the REIT Merger and the transactions contemplated thereby under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and applicable blue sky laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Each party will advise the other, promptly after it receives notice thereof, of the time when the Registration Statement has become effective or any supplement or amendment has been filed, the issuance of any stop order, the suspension of the qualification of the Parent Common Shares issuable in connection with the REIT Merger for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, or any request by the SEC for amendment of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus or requests by the SEC for additional information. No amendment or supplement to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus shall be filed without the approval of both parties hereto, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed; provided that, with respect to documents filed by a party which are incorporated by reference in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus, this right of approval by the other party shall apply only with respect to information relating to such other party and its Affiliates, their business, financial condition or results of operations or the Transactions; and provided, further, that the Company, in connection with a Subsequent Determination, may amend or supplement the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (including by incorporation by reference) pursuant to a Qualifying Amendment to effect such a Subsequent Determination, and in such event, this right of approval shall apply only with respect to information relating to the Parent and its Affiliates or their business, financial condition or results of operations. Qualifying Amendment means an amendment or supplement to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (including by incorporation by reference) to the extent it contains (i) a Subsequent Determination, (ii) a statement of the reasons of the Company Board for making such Subsequent Determination and (iii) additional information reasonably related to the
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foregoing. If at any time prior to the Effective Time, any information relating to Parent or the Company, or any of their respective Affiliates, officers, trustees or directors, should be discovered by Parent or the Company that should be set forth in an amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement or the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus, so that such documents would not include any misstatement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, the party which discovers such information shall promptly notify the other parties hereto and an appropriate amendment or supplement describing such information shall be promptly filed with the SEC and, to the extent required by law, disseminated to the shareholders of the Company and Parent.
(c) The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus to be mailed to its shareholders as promptly as practicable after the Registration Statement becomes effective and shall duly call and hold a meeting of its shareholders (the Company Shareholders Meeting) for the purpose of obtaining the Required Company Vote as promptly as practicable after the mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus. In connection with the Company Shareholder Meeting, the Company will (i) subject to Section 6.04(e), use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the Required Company Vote and (ii) otherwise comply with all legal requirements applicable to such meeting.
(d) Parent shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus to be mailed to its shareholders as promptly as practicable after the Registration Statement becomes effective and shall duly call and hold a meeting of its shareholders (the Parent Shareholders Meeting) for the purpose of obtaining the Required Parent Vote as promptly as practicable after the mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus. In connection with the Parent Shareholder Meeting, Parent will (i) use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the Required Parent Vote and (ii) otherwise comply with all legal requirements applicable to such meeting.
(e) It shall be a condition to the mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus that (i) Parent and Parent L.P. shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent public accountants for the Company and Company L.P., of the kind contemplated by the Statement of Auditing Standards with respect to Letters to Underwriters promulgated by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (the AICPA Statement), dated a date within two business days before the effective date of the Registration Statement, addressed to Parent and Parent L.P., in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Parent and Parent L.P., concerning the procedures undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP with respect to the financial statements and information of the Company, Company L.P. and the Company Subsidiaries contained in the Registration Statement and the other matters contemplated by the AICPA Statement and otherwise customary in scope and substance for letters delivered by independent public accountants in connection with transactions such as those contemplated by this Agreement and (ii) the Company shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent public accountants for Parent and Parent L.P., of the kind contemplated by the AICPA Statement, dated a date within two business days before the effective date of the Registration Statement, addressed to the Company and Company L.P., in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Company, concerning the procedures undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP with respect to the financial statements and information of Parent, Parent L.P. and the Parent Subsidiaries contained in the Registration Statement and the other matters contemplated by the AICPA Statement and otherwise customary in scope and substance for letters delivered by independent public accountants in connection with transactions such as those contemplated by this Agreement.
(f) As promptly as practicable after the execution of this Agreement, the Company and Company L.P. shall prepare certain materials (the Partner Exchange Materials), which will be used by the Company and Company L.P. to notify each Limited Partner (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) of such Limited Partners right to exercise the Exchange Right (as defined in the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement) in the manner described in Section 1.11 of this Agreement. The Partner Exchange Materials shall be prepared by the Company and Company L.P. in compliance with applicable Law and shall include information about Parent and Parent L.P., a description of the Transactions, a general description of the federal income Tax consequences of receiving the OP Merger Consideration, and such other information as the parties reasonably determine. All Partner Exchange Materials, and all mailings to holders of Company Common Units in connection with the OP Merger, shall be subject to the prior review, comment and consent
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of Parent and Parent L.P. (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). Parent and the Company shall make all necessary filings with respect to the OP Merger and the transactions contemplated thereby under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and applicable blue sky laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Each party hereto shall use its reasonable best efforts, after consultation with the other parties hereto, to respond promptly to any comments made by any Governmental Entity with respect to the Partner Exchange Materials and to cause such Partner Exchange Materials to be mailed to the holders of Company Common Units at or about the same time as the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus is mailed to the shareholders of the Company.
(g) Parent and the Company agree to schedule the Parent Shareholders Meeting and Company Shareholders Meeting for the same date.
Section 6.02. Access to Information. Subject to applicable Law, including any applicable competition, merger control, antitrust or similar Law, or confidentiality obligations owed to third parties, upon reasonable notice each party shall afford to each other party and to Prudential and their respective Affiliates and Representatives, reasonable and prompt access during normal business hours during the period prior to the Effective Time or the termination of this Agreement to all its properties, assets, books, contracts, commitments, Representatives and records, and during such period, (x) such party and Prudential shall have the right, subject to the terms of this Section 6.02, to prepare or cause to be prepared surveys, inspections, engineering studies, environmental assessments and other tests, examinations or studies with respect to the Company Properties or the Parent Properties, as the case may be; provided that such party and Prudential may not do any destructive testing of the Company Properties or the Parent Properties, as the case may be, (y) each party shall provide a monthly review of the revenues, capital spending and performance data of it and its Subsidiaries to the other party within 20 days after the end of each such month, and (z) each party shall make available to the other party on a prompt basis (i) a copy of each report, schedule, form, statement and other document filed or received by it during such period pursuant to the requirements of domestic or foreign (whether national, federal, state, provincial, local or otherwise) Laws and (ii) all other information concerning its business, properties and personnel as such party may reasonably request. In addition, upon reasonable notice the Company and the Company Subsidiaries shall afford to each of Parent, Merger Sub and Prudential and to their respective Affiliates and Representatives, reasonable and prompt access, during normal business hours during the period prior to the Effective Time or the termination of this Agreement to tenants at Company Owned Properties. Each of the parties will hold any such information that is non-public in confidence to the extent required by, and in accordance with, the provisions of the confidentiality agreement between the Company and Parent entered into in 2005 (the Confidentiality Agreement). Any investigation by the parties shall not affect the representations and warranties or the conditions to the obligations of the Company or Parent, as the case may be.
Section 6.03. Reasonable Best Efforts; Notification.
(a) Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, each of the parties agrees to use reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and do, or cause to be done, and to assist and cooperate with the other parties in doing, all things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective, in the most expeditious manner practicable, the REIT Merger and the other Transactions, including using reasonable best efforts to obtain all necessary actions or nonactions, waivers, consents, approvals, orders and authorizations from Governmental Entities and to make all necessary registrations, declarations and filings (including filings with Governmental Entities, if any) and to take all steps as may be necessary to obtain an approval or waiver from, or to avoid an action or proceeding by, any Governmental Entity; provided, however, that Parent will not be required to agree to, or proffer to, (A) divest or hold separate, or enter into any licensing or similar arrangement with respect to, any assets (whether tangible or intangible) or any of Parents, the Companys or any of their respective Affiliates businesses or (B) cease to conduct business or operations in any jurisdiction in which Parent, the Company or any of their respective Affiliates conducts business or operations as of the date of this Agreement. Each party shall use its reasonable best efforts (i) to obtain consents of all third parties necessary, proper or advisable for the consummation by such party or any of its Affiliates of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (including without limitation obtaining the consents required under the agreements set forth on Section 3.03(b) of the Company Disclosure Letter or Section 4.03(b) of Parent Disclosure Letter, as the case may be);
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provided that, without the prior written consent of Parent, the Company shall not agree to any significant modification to any contractual arrangement to obtain such consents or certificates; (ii) to provide any material notices to third parties required to be provided by the Company or any of its Affiliates prior to the Effective Time, including under any leases or insurance policies; and (iii) to comply in all material respects with the terms of the insurance policies.
(b) In connection with and without limiting the foregoing, the Company, Company L.P. and the Company Board shall (i) take all action necessary to ensure that no state takeover statute or similar statute or regulation is or becomes applicable to this Agreement, the Voting Agreements, the REIT Merger, the OP Merger or any of the other Transactions and (ii) if any state takeover statute or similar statute or regulation becomes applicable to this Agreement, the Voting Agreements, the REIT Merger, the OP Merger or any of the other Transactions, take all action necessary to ensure that the REIT Merger, the OP Merger and the other Transactions may be consummated as promptly as practicable on the terms contemplated by this Agreement and the Voting Agreements and otherwise to minimize the effect of such statute or regulation on the REIT Merger, the OP Merger and the other Transactions.
(c) The Company shall give notice to Parent within 48 hours of becoming aware of any representation or warranty made by it and contained in this Agreement becoming untrue or inaccurate such that the condition set forth in Section 7.02(a) would not be satisfied; provided that no such notification shall affect the representations, warranties, covenants or agreements of the parties or the conditions to the obligations of the parties under this Agreement.
(d) Parent shall give notice to the Company within 48 hours of becoming aware of any representation or warranty made by it or Merger Sub contained in this Agreement becoming untrue or inaccurate such that the condition set forth in Section 7.03(a) would not be satisfied; provided that no such notification shall affect the representations, warranties, covenants or agreements of the parties or the conditions to the obligations of the parties under this Agreement.
Section 6.04. No Solicitation.
(a) Neither the Company or any of its Subsidiaries shall, nor shall the Company or any of its Subsidiaries authorize or permit any of their Representatives to, directly or indirectly, (i) solicit, initiate, encourage or knowingly take any other action to facilitate (including by the furnishing of non-public information) the submission of any inquiry, proposal or offer from any Person (other than Parent, Merger Sub or their Affiliates) relating to, or that could reasonably be expected to lead to, any Takeover Proposal, (ii) agree to, approve or recommend any Takeover Proposal or enter into any agreement with respect to any Takeover Proposal or (iii) enter into, continue or otherwise participate in any discussions or negotiations regarding, or furnish to any Person any non-public information with respect to, or take any other action to facilitate any inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to lead to, any Takeover Proposal. Takeover Proposal means any offer or proposal for any direct or indirect acquisition or purchase, in one transaction or a series of transactions, of (i) 30% or more of the assets of the Company and the Subsidiaries of the Company, taken as a whole, or (ii) 30% or more in voting power of the outstanding Company Common Shares, (iii) any tender offer or exchange offer that if consummated would result in any Person beneficially owning 30% or more in voting power of the outstanding Company Common Shares, or (iv) any merger, consolidation, business combination, recapitalization, reclassification, share exchange, liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction or series of transactions involving the Company or any Significant Subsidiary; provided, however, the sale of the Subject Properties shall not be a Takeover Proposal.
(b) In addition to the obligations of the Company set forth in paragraph (a) of this Section 6.04, the Company shall notify Parent promptly (but in any event within two business days) after receipt or occurrence of (i) any Takeover Proposal, (ii) any request for information with respect to any Takeover Proposal or (iii) any inquiry, proposal, discussions or negotiation with respect to any Takeover Proposal, and such notice shall include the material terms and conditions of any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry, proposal, discussion or negotiation and the identity of the Person making any such Takeover Proposal, request for information, inquiry or proposal or with whom discussions or negotiations are
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taking place. The Company shall keep Parent informed in all material respects of the status and details (including amendments or proposed amendments) of any such inquiry, request or Takeover Proposal.
(c) Nothing contained in this Section 6.04 shall prohibit the Company and the Company Board from (i) taking and disclosing to its shareholders a position contemplated by Rule 14d-9 or Rule 14e-2 promulgated under the Exchange Act or (ii) making any disclosure to the Companys shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of the Company Board (after having obtained sufficient preliminary information upon which to make such judgment), after consultation with outside counsel, failure so to disclose would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of its duties under applicable Law. Subject to Sections 6.04(e) and 8.01(d), in no event shall the Company, the Company Board or any committee thereof withdraw (or modify in a manner adverse to Parent), or propose publicly to withdraw (or modify in a manner adverse to Parent), its position with respect to this Agreement, the Voting Agreements, the REIT Merger, the OP Merger or the other Transactions or adopt, approve or recommend, or propose to adopt, approve or recommend, a Takeover Proposal.
(d) Notwithstanding anything in this Section 6.04 to the contrary, prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Company may negotiate and participate in discussions and negotiations with such Person that has made an unsolicited bona fide written Takeover Proposal not resulting from or arising out of a breach of Section 6.04(a) (provided that the Company shall not agree to any exclusive right to negotiate with such Person) and may furnish information concerning its business, properties or assets to such Person pursuant to appropriate confidentiality agreements (on terms not less favorable to the Company than the terms (including standstill terms) of the Confidentiality Agreement, as such may be waived in accordance with Section 5.01(a)(xii)); provided that the Company Board shall be permitted to take any such action if, and only if, prior to taking such action, the Company Board (after having obtained sufficient preliminary information upon which to make such determination) has determined by the affirmative vote of a majority of all of the members of the Company Board or any committee thereof to which the power to consider such matters has been delegated that (i) such Takeover Proposal would result in, or would be reasonably likely to result in, a Superior Proposal and (ii) after consultation with outside legal counsel, the failure to provide information to such Person or access or to engage in discussions or negotiations with such Person would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of the duties of the Company Board under applicable Law. Superior Proposal means a Takeover Proposal (as defined in Section 6.04(a), except that the reference to 30% in such definition shall be deemed to be a reference to 50%) whereby the Person making such proposal has on an unsolicited basis submitted a bona fide written proposal to the Company relating to any such transaction on terms that the Company Board determines in its good faith judgment (after consultation with a nationally recognized financial advisor, taking into account all the terms and conditions of the Takeover Proposal, including any break-up fees, expense reimbursement provisions and conditions to consummation) is more favorable to the Companys shareholders, from a financial point of view, than this Agreement and the REIT Merger, taken as a whole, and that is reasonably capable of being completed. The Company shall not provide any nonpublic information, which was not previously provided to Parent, regarding the Company to any other Person pursuant to this Section 6.04(d) unless such information is simultaneously provided to Parent.
(e) If the Company Board, after consultation with outside legal counsel, determines that failure to accept a Superior Proposal would be reasonably likely to cause a breach of the duties of the trustees of the Company to the Company and its shareholders under applicable Law, the Company Board may inform the holders of Company Common Shares that it no longer believes that the REIT Merger is advisable and no longer recommends approval (a Subsequent Determination), but only at a time that is prior to the Company Shareholders Meeting and after the third business day following Parents receipt of written notice advising Parent that the Company has received a Superior Proposal specifying the terms and conditions of such Superior Proposal (and including a copy thereof with all accompanying documentation), identifying the person making the Superior Proposal and stating that it is considering a Subsequent Determination; provided, that (i) during such three business day period Parent does not make an offer that the Company Board shall have reasonably concluded in good faith (following consultation with its nationally recognized financial advisors and outside counsel) is more favorable to the shareholders of the Company than such Superior Proposal and (ii) at the end of such three business day period such Takeover Proposal continues to be a Superior Proposal. At any time after the three business day period following notification to Parent of the
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Companys consideration to do so and if the Company has otherwise complied with the terms of this Section 6.04 (but in no event following approval of the REIT Merger pursuant to this Agreement at the Company Shareholders Meeting), the Company may terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 8.01(e) and enter into an agreement with respect to the Superior Proposal; provided that prior to such termination the Company shall have made payment to Parent of the full amounts, if any, required under Sections 8.03(c) and (d) to be paid at that time.
Section 6.05. Employees and Benefit Plans.
(a) Parent L.P. intends to interview Company employees and may in its discretion (taking into account the views of the Company) offer employment as of the Closing Date to employees of the Company (the Company Employees) on terms and conditions, including salary and bonus, which are no less favorable than those under which the Company Employees are currently employed, and with benefits that are no less favorable in the aggregate to those applicable to similarly situated employees of Parent L.P. as in effect from time to time. Parent L.P. shall continue such salary, benefits and bonuses of each Company Employee who accepts such offer of employment for a period of one year from the Closing Date, unless such Company Employee voluntarily resigns or is terminated for cause.
(b) Parent L.P. agrees that it shall interview Company executive employees (the Corporate Employees) with the goal of offering each such Corporate Employee a position with Parent L.P. or any of its Affiliates reasonably comparable to the position such Corporate Employee currently holds with the Company or any of its Affiliates. Parent L.P. shall act in good faith taking into account the staffing needs of Parent L.P. or any of its Affiliates and the qualifications of the applicable Corporate Employee. Parent L.P. shall use reasonable efforts to complete such interviews and make the offers contemplated by this Section 6.05(b) no later than ten days prior to the Closing and, at such time, shall provide a written notice to the Company identifying the Corporate Employees that have received offers of employment. Offers, if made, shall include compensation and bonus, which are no less favorable than those under which Corporate Employees are currently employed and with other benefits in line with similar positions at Parent L.P. or any of its Affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no legal obligation shall be created on Parent L.P. or any of its Affiliates to hire any such Corporate Employees.
(c) From and after the Effective Time, Parent shall, and shall cause the Surviving Company to, honor in accordance with their respective terms (as in effect on the date of this Agreement) the Company Employment Agreements and the Companys obligations under the change of control arrangements and Company employee severance policies identified, listed or described in Section 3.15(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter.
(d) Parent will honor in accordance with their terms, all vested accrued benefit obligations to, and contractual rights of, current and former employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries which are disclosed in Section 3.15(c) of the Company Disclosure Letter. To the extent such agreements and policies were adopted or executed on or before the date of this Agreement, Parent acknowledges that a change of control within the meaning of the Company Incentive Plans will occur on the Effective Time and as a result, except as provided in Section 6.05(d) of the Company Disclosure Letter, all vesting of unvested options will be accelerated and all of them will vest. The Company may make any required employee matching contributions under its 401(k) Plan in a manner consistent with historical practices.
(e) With respect to any employee benefit plan, as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, maintained by Parent or any of its Subsidiaries, to the extent such plan is made available to an employee of the Company, for all purposes (other than benefit accrual), service with the Company, its Subsidiaries or their predecessors shall be treated as service with Parent or any of its Subsidiaries as applicable.
(f) Parent shall waive or cause to be waived any pre-existing condition limitation under any welfare benefit plan maintained by Parent or any of its Affiliates (other than the Company) in which employees of the Company (and their eligible dependents) will be eligible to participate from and after the Effective Time, except to the extent that such preexisting condition limitation would have been applicable under the comparable Company welfare benefit plan immediately prior to the Effective Time. Parent shall recognize, or cause to be recognized, the dollar amount of all expenses incurred by each Company employee
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(and his or her eligible dependents) during the calendar year in which the Effective Time occurs for purposes of satisfying such years deductible and co-payment limitations under the relevant welfare benefit plans in which they will be eligible to participate from and after the Effective Time.
(g) Without limiting the Companys obligations in Section 6.21, the Company shall take all actions necessary and appropriate to ensure that (i) the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan is terminated prior to the REIT Effective Time, and that no Company employee shall thereafter have any rights under the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan and (ii) participation in the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan is suspended as of the end of the first Option Period (as defined in the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan) that occurs following the date of this Agreement.
(h) Subject to Section 6.05(a), nothing contained in this Section 6.05 or elsewhere in this Agreement shall be construed to prevent, from and after the Effective Time, the termination of employment of any individual employee of the Company or any change in the employee benefits available to any such individual employee or the amendment or termination of any particular Company Employee Benefit Plan or other employee benefit plan, program, policy or arrangement.
(i) Parent acknowledges that, prior to December 31, 2005, or at such later time as may be permitted under Section 409A of the Code and the regulations and guidance issued thereunder (collectively Section 409A), and in accordance with, and to the extent permitted under Section 409A, the participants in the Company Deferred Compensation Plans shall be permitted to amend the timing and form of payments to be made under the Company Deferred Compensation Plans, and thereafter, that the Company shall amend the Company Deferred Compensation Plans to the extent necessary to conform to Section 409A. To the extent not already vested, the parties acknowledge that all amounts currently deferred under the Company Deferred Compensation Plans shall become vested at the Effective Time except to the extent otherwise provided in Section 6.05(i) of the Company Disclosure Letter. Subject to Section 409A, Parent shall assume the Company Deferred Compensation Plans and maintain the Company Deferred Compensation Plans in accordance with their respective terms for the benefit of the participants thereunder to the extent that such participants maintain account balances after the Effective Time.
Section 6.06. Indemnification.
(a) Parent and Merger Sub agree that all rights to indemnification and exculpation from liabilities for acts or omissions occurring at or prior to the Effective Time now existing in favor of the current or former trustees or officers of the Company as provided in the Company Organizational Documents and indemnification agreements of the Company identified in Section 6.06 of the Company Disclosure Letter shall be assumed by the Surviving Company in the REIT Merger, without further action, at the REIT Effective Time and shall survive the REIT Merger and shall continue in full force and effect in accordance with their terms.
(b) The Surviving Company shall (i) for a period of six years after the REIT Effective Time cause to be maintained in effect in the Surviving Companys (or any successor) charter and by-laws (or similar governing documents), provisions regarding elimination of liability of trustees, indemnification of officers, trustees and employees and advancement of expenses which are no less advantageous to the intended beneficiaries as those currently contained in the declaration of trust and by-laws of the Company and (ii) maintain for a period of at least six years the current policies of trustees and officers liability insurance maintained by the Company (provided that the Surviving Company may substitute therefor policies of at least the same coverage and amounts containing terms and conditions which are, in the aggregate, no less advantageous to the insured, provided that such substitution shall not result in gaps or lapses of coverage with respect to matters occurring before the REIT Effective Time) with respect to claims arising from facts or events that occurred on or before the REIT Effective Time; including, without limitation, in respect of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided, however, that in no event shall the Surviving Company be required to expend in excess of 200% of the annual premiums currently paid by the Company for such insurance; and, provided, further, that if the aggregate premiums of such insurance coverage would exceed such amount, the Surviving Company shall be obligated to obtain a policy with the greatest coverage available for a cost not exceeding such amount. The provisions of this subsection (b) shall be deemed to have been satisfied if prepaid policies have been obtained by the Surviving Company for purposes of this Section
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6.06, which policies (together with the Companys existing policy) provide such trustees and officers with the coverage described in this subsection (b) for an aggregate period of not less than six years with respect to claims arising from facts or events that occurred on or before the REIT Effective Time, including, without limitation, in respect of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(c) If the Surviving Company or any of its successors or assigns (i) consolidates with or merges with or into any other Person and shall not be the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or merger or (ii) transfers or conveys all or substantially all of its properties and assets to any Person, then, and in each such case, to the extent necessary, proper provision shall be made so that the successors and assigns of the Surviving Company assume the obligations set forth in this Section 6.06. The parties acknowledge and agree that Parent guarantees the payment and performance of the Surviving Companys obligations pursuant to this Section 6.06.
(d) The provisions of this Section 6.06 shall not be terminated or modified in such a manner as to adversely affect any indemnitee to whom this Section 6.06 applies without the consent of such affected indemnitee and are intended to be for the benefit of, and will be enforceable by, each indemnified party, his or her heirs and his or her legal representatives.
Section 6.07. Public Announcements. Each of Parent, on the one hand, and the Company, on the other hand, shall consult with each other before issuing, and provide each other a reasonable opportunity to review and comment upon, any press release or other public statements with respect to this Agreement, the OP Merger, the REIT Merger and the other Transactions and shall not issue any such press release or make any such public statement prior to such consultation, except as may be required by applicable Law, court process or by obligations pursuant to any listing agreement with any national securities exchange, in which case the party required to make the release or announcement shall use its reasonable best efforts to allow each other party reasonable time to comment on such release or announcement in advance of such issuance, it being understood that the final form and content of any such release or announcement, to the extent so required, shall be at the final discretion of the disclosing party.
Section 6.08. Transfer Taxes. Parent and the Company shall cooperate in the preparation, execution and filing of all returns, questionnaires, applications or other documents regarding any real property transfer or gains, sales, use, transfer, value added, stock transfer or stamp taxes, any transfer, recording, registration and other fees and any similar taxes that become payable in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (together with any related interests, penalties or additions to Tax, Transfer Taxes), and shall cooperate in attempting to minimize the amount of Transfer Taxes. From and after the Effective Time, the Surviving Company shall pay or cause to be paid, without deduction or withholding from any consideration or amounts payable to holders of the Company Common Shares, Company Series D Preferred Shares, Company L.P. Units and/or Company Options, all Transfer Taxes.
Section 6.09. Listing of Shares. Parent shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Parent Common Shares to be issued in the REIT Merger and the Parent Common Shares to be reserved for issuance upon exercise of Company Options and upon conversion of Parent Class A Units to be approved for listing, upon official notice of issuance, on the NYSE.
Section 6.10. Affiliate Letter. On or prior to the date of the Company Shareholders Meeting, the Company will deliver to Parent a letter (the Company Affiliate Letter) identifying all persons who are affiliates of the Company for purposes of Rule 145 under the Securities Act (Rule 145). On or prior to the Closing Date, the Company will use all reasonable efforts to cause each person identified as an affiliate in the Company Affiliate Letter to deliver a written agreement, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C, in connection with restrictions on affiliates under Rule 145.
Section 6.11. Coordination of Dividends. From and after the date of this Agreement, except as provided in Article X, the Company shall not make any dividend or distribution to its shareholders, and Company L.P. shall not make any dividend or distribution to its partners, in each case without the prior written consent of Parent in its sole discretion; provided, however, that the written consent of Parent shall not be required for the authorization and payment of (i) distributions required for the Company to maintain its status as a REIT under the Code, (ii) quarterly distributions of up to $0.56 per Company Common Share to
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the holders thereof for the quarter ending September 30, 2005 (the Initial Dividend) and for each quarter thereafter ending prior to the REIT Effective Time; provided that the record and payment dates for each distribution with respect to the Company Common Shares pursuant to this clause (ii) (other than the Initial Dividend) shall be the same date as the record and payment dates for the quarterly distributions for the Parent Common Shares, as provided by Parent to the Company by written notice not less than twenty (20) business days prior to the record date for each such quarterly Parent distribution; provided, however, that the record date for the fourth quarter dividend for 2005 shall be on or before the date which is ten days prior to the Closing Date and the record date for the first quarter dividend for 2006 (if the Closing shall not have occurred on or prior to December 31, 2005) shall be on or before the date which is ten days prior to the Closing Date, (iii) a distribution per Company Common Unit in the same amount as a dividend per Company Common Share permitted pursuant to clauses (i) or (ii) above, with the same record and payment dates as such dividends on Company Common Shares and (iv) regular quarterly dividends of $0.56 per share on the Company Series D Preferred Shares in accordance with the requirements of the Charter and corresponding dividend on the Company L.P. Series D Convertible Preferred Units in accordance with the requirements of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement. In the event that a distribution with respect to the Company Common Shares permitted by this Section 6.11 has (x) a record date prior to the REIT Effective Time and (y) has not been paid as of the REIT Effective Time, the holders of Company Common Shares shall be entitled to receive such distribution from the Company at the time such shares are exchanged pursuant to Article II of this Agreement.
Section 6.12. Section 16(b). Assuming that the Company delivers to Parent the Company Section 16 Information (as hereinafter defined) in a timely fashion prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Parent Board, or a committee of Non-Employee Directors thereof (as such term is defined for purposes of Rule 16b-3(d) under the Exchange Act), shall reasonably promptly thereafter and in any event prior to the Effective Time adopt a resolution providing in substance that the receipt by the Company Insiders (as hereinafter defined) of Parent Common Shares in exchange for Company Common Shares, of Parent Class A Units in exchange for Company Common Units, and of options to purchase Parent Common Shares in exchange for options to purchase Company Common Shares, in each case pursuant to the transactions contemplated hereby and to the extent such securities are listed in the Company Section 16 Information, are intended to be exempt from liability pursuant to Section 16(b) under the Exchange Act in accordance with Rule 16b-3 and interpretations of the SEC thereunder. Company Section 16 Information shall mean information accurate in all material respects regarding Company Insiders, the number of shares of Company Common Shares held by each such Company Insider and expected to be exchanged for Parent Common Shares in the REIT Merger, the number of Company Common Units held by each such Company Insider and expected to be exchanged for Parent Class A Units in the OP Merger, the number and description of the options to purchase shares of Company Common Shares held by each such Company Insider and expected to be converted into options to purchase Parent Common Shares in connection with the REIT Merger and any other information that may be required under applicable interpretations of the SEC under Rule 16b-3. Company Insiders shall mean those officers and trustees of the Company who are subject to the reporting requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act and who are listed in the Company Section 16 Information.
Section 6.13. Redemption of Company Series D Preferred Shares. After December 29, 2005 (if the REIT Merger has not occurred) and prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Company shall redeem all of the outstanding Company Series D Preferred Shares, if any, for a cash amount equal to $26.50 per share plus accrued but unpaid dividends thereon at the rate specified in Charter (except for any such shares which are converted by the holder into Company Common Shares prior to such time).
Section 6.14. Conversion of Company G.P. Prior to the REIT Effective Time, at Parents election exercised by written notice to Company not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the REIT Effective Time, either (i) the Company shall cause Company G.P., its wholly owned subsidiary to convert from a corporation to a Delaware limited liability company or (ii) the Company and Company GP shall make a valid election on IRS Form 8875 to treat Company GP as a taxable REIT subsidiary under Section 856(l) of the Code effective prior to the REIT Effective Time (the conversion or election under (i) or (ii) is referred to herein as the Company GP Conversion). In the absence of such written notice by Parent to Company, Parent shall be
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deemed to have elected alternative (i) above, and the Company shall cause Company G.P. to convert from a corporation to a Delaware limited liability company prior to the REIT Effective Time.
Section 6.15. Repayment of PPREFI Portfolio Collateralized Loan. Prior to the REIT Effective Time, the Company shall cause all mortgages and other liens securing the Companys PPREFI Portfolio collateralized loan (the PPREFI Portfolio Loan) to be released such that they are free of any obligations relating to the PPREFI Portfolio Loan on or before Closing.
Section 6.16. Registration Rights. The Companys registration rights agreements identified in Section 6.16 of the Company Disclosure Letter and registration rights of holders of Company L.P. Units pursuant to the terms of the Company L.P. Partnership Agreement will be assumed by Parent in accordance with their terms and the holders of registration rights under such agreements shall have substantially the same rights with respect to the registration of the securities of Parent that such holders may receive on the Closing Date as a result of the REIT Merger or the OP Merger as they currently possess under such agreements. On the date hereof, Parent shall enter into a Registration Rights Agreement with Michael V. Prentiss in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B. Parent agrees to use good faith commercially reasonable efforts to file, on or within thirty (30) days following the Closing Date, a shelf registration statement (the Shelf Registration Statement) pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act registering the resale of the Parent Common Shares (the Registrable Securities) issuable by Parent upon the conversion or redemption of any Parent Class A Units received by persons who were holders of Company Common Units of Company L.P. immediately prior to the OP Merger. The Shelf Registration Statement shall be filed on Form S-3 and, if Parent is eligible, the Shelf Registration Statement shall utilize the automatic shelf registration process under Rule 415 and Rule 462 as amended by Securities Act Release No. 8591. Parent will use its best efforts to maintain its status as a well known seasoned issuer as defined in Rule 405 as amended by Securities Act Release No. 8591. If Parent is not a well known seasoned issuer or is otherwise ineligible to utilize the automatic shelf registration process, then Parent shall use its best efforts to have the Shelf Registration Statement declared effective under the Securities Act as expeditiously as practicable. Parent will maintain the effectiveness of the Shelf Registration Statement, including by filing any necessary post-effective amendments and prospectus supplements, or, alternatively, by filing new registration statements relating to the Registrable Securities as required by Rule 415 under the Securities Act to permit the disposition of all Registrable Securities pursuant hereto until the earliest date on which (i) all Registrable Securities registered pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement or any successors thereto have been sold or (ii) all Registrable Securities may be sold pursuant to Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act. Parent acknowledges that the holders of the Company Common Units are third party beneficiaries of this Section 6.16.
Section 6.17. Assumption of Existing Tax Protection Arrangements. Parent and Parent L.P. shall assume the obligations of the Company, Company L.P. or the applicable Company Subsidiary, as the case may be, under the Companys Tax Protection Arrangements described in Section 3.14 to the Company Disclosure Letter.
Section 6.18. Director Nominees. Parent shall use its best efforts to cause the Director Nominees to be elected as members of the Parent Board by the existing trustees of the Parent Board simultaneous with Closing, subject to applicable Law. Each Director Nominee shall serve as a trustee for a term expiring at Parents next annual meeting of shareholders following the Effective Time and until his successor is elected and qualified, provided that Parent shall use its best efforts to cause the Parent Board to re-nominate each Director Nominee as a trustee for election at the Parents annual meeting of shareholders for each of 2006 and 2007. Parent shall take such action, including amending its bylaws, as may be required to cause the number of trustees constituting the Parent Board immediately after the Effective Time to be increased by two members in furtherance of its agreements in this Section 6.18. Director Nominees means Michael V. Prentiss and Thomas F. August.
Section 6.19. Tenants Estoppels and SNDAs. The Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain prior to the Closing Date tenant estoppels from all tenants at Company Properties who have Space Leases which cover more than 25% of the square footage of any Company Property, each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Parent. The Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain prior to the Closing Date, if requested by Prudential, subordination, non-disturbance and attornment
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agreements from all tenants at Company Properties which are to be acquired by Prudential who have Space Leases which cover more than 25% of the square footage of any Company Property, each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Prudential. The Company shall not be obligated to expend any funds in connection with its obligations under this Section 6.19.
Section 6.20. Suspension of Dividend Reinvestment Plan; Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan. The Company has suspended, and shall not reinstate, the Company Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan, and the Company will not hereafter allow any participants in the Company Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan to elect to purchase Company Common Shares pursuant to such plan. Without limiting the foregoing, the Company shall not waive any maximum investment restrictions contained in the Company Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan. The Company shall not waive any restrictions contained in the Companys Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan and shall not permit any participant in the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan to increase the number of Company Common Shares to be purchased by such participant under the Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan.
Section 6.21. Third Party Consents. Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain, prior to Closing, and each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Prudential: (i) the third party consents set forth in Section 6.21 of the Company Disclosure Letter, (ii) an estoppel certificate from Shell Oil Company for the benefit of Prudential and its transferees pursuant to Section 3.6 of the Release and Settlement Agreement dated September 12, 1996 among Shell Oil Company, Cadillac Fairview/California, Inc., GP Holdings, Inc. and The Prentiss/Copley Investment Group, (iii) an agreement from Collins Corporate Center, LLC that acknowledges that Prudential or its transferee shall upon Closing become the Managing Member under the Operating Agreement of Prentiss/Collins Del Mar Heights, LLC and confirming such other matters as Prudential may reasonably request, (iv) the Required Debt Consents (as defined in the Prudential Asset Purchase Agreement) and (v) such documents and instruments in recordable form as will remove from title any option or other right under a Space Lease that is no longer in effect and any documents securing debt that has been repaid, but shall not be obligated to expend any funds in connection therewith.
Section 6.22. Private Letter Ruling. Parent shall apply for, and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain, a private letter ruling from the IRS that confirms that the REIT Merger will (i) be treated for Federal income taxes as (x) a taxable sale of assets by the Company, immediately followed by (y) a taxable liquidation of the Company under Section 331 of the Code, or (ii) that the Transactions do not constitute a reorganization as defined in Section 368(a) of the Code. (the Private Letter Ruling).
ARTICLE VII
Conditions Precedent
Section 7.01. Conditions to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the REIT Merger. The respective obligation of each party to effect the REIT Merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:
(a) Shareholder Approval. The Company shall have obtained the Required Company Vote in connection with the approval and adoption of the REIT Merger, the Prudential Asset Sale and this Agreement by the shareholders of the Company. Parent shall have obtained the Required Parent Vote in connection with the approval and adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of Parent.
(b) No Injunctions or Restraints. No temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other judgment issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition that has the effect of preventing the consummation of the REIT Merger shall be in effect; and Parent and the Company shall use their reasonable efforts to have any of the foregoing vacated, dismissed or withdrawn prior to the REIT Effective Time.
(c) NYSE Listing. The Parent Common Shares to be issued in the REIT Merger and the Parent Common Shares to be reserved for issuance upon exercise of Company Options and conversion of Parent Class A Units issued in the OP Merger shall have been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance.
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(d) Effectiveness of the Registration Statement. The Registration Statement shall have been declared effective by the SEC under the Securities Act. No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have been issued by the SEC and no proceedings for that purpose shall have been initiated and not concluded or withdrawn.
Section 7.02. Conditions to Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub. The obligations of Parent and Merger Sub to effect the REIT Merger are further subject to the satisfaction or waiver on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:
(a) Representations and Warranties. (i) Each of the representations and warranties of the Company set forth in this Agreement that is qualified as to materiality or Material Adverse Effect shall have been true and correct as of the date hereof and at and as of the Closing Date as if made at and as of the Closing Date, and (ii) each of the representations and warranties of the Company that is not so qualified shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of the date hereof and at and as of the Closing Date as if made at and as of the Closing Date (except, in each case, for those representations and warranties which address matters only as of a particular date, in which case, they shall be true and correct, or true and correct in all material respects, as applicable, as of such date).
(b) Performance of Obligations of the Company. The Company shall have performed in all material respects all obligations required to be performed by it under this Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date.
(c) Material Adverse Effect. Since the date of this Agreement, there shall not have been any state of facts, change, development, effect, event, condition or occurrence that, individually or in the aggregate, constitutes, has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Company Material Adverse Effect.
(d) Tax Opinion. Parent shall have received an opinion of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, dated as of the Closing Date, that, commencing with its taxable year ended December 31, 1996, the Company has been organized and has operated in conformity with the requirements for qualification as a REIT within the meaning of the Code (such opinion shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Parent and shall be subject to customary assumptions, qualifications and representations).
(e) Payment of PPREFI Portfolio Loan. The Company shall have defeased the PPREFI Portfolio Loan and released the collateral.
(f) LLC Conversion. The Company shall have effected the LLC Conversion and delivered evidence of the LLC Conversion to Parent.
(g) Comfort Letter. Parent and Parent L.P. shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, as described in Section 6.01(e).
Section 7.03. Conditions to Obligation of the Company. The obligation of the Company to effect the REIT Merger is further subject to the following conditions:
(a) Representations and Warranties. (i) Each of the representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub set forth in this Agreement that is qualified as to Material Adverse Effect shall have been true and correct as of the date hereof and at and as of the Closing Date as if made at and as of the Closing Date, and (ii) each of the representations and warranties of each of Parent and Merger Sub that is not so qualified shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of the date hereof and at and as of the Closing Date as if made at and as of the Closing Date (except, in each case, for those representations and warranties which address matters only as of a particular date, in which case, they shall be true and correct, or true and correct in all material respects, as applicable, as of such date).
(b) Performance of Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub. Each of Parent and Merger Sub shall have performed in all material respects all obligations required to be performed by them under this Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date.
(c) Material Adverse Effect. Since the date of this Agreement, there shall not have been any state of facts, change, development, effect, event, condition or occurrence that, individually or in the aggregate, constitutes, has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Parent Material Adverse Effect.
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(d) Tax Opinion. The Company shall have received an opinion of Pepper Hamilton LLP, dated as of the Closing Date, that, commencing with its taxable year ended December 31, 1986, Parent has been organized and has operated in conformity with the requirements for qualification as a REIT within the meaning of the Code (such opinion shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Company and shall be subject to customary assumptions, qualifications and representations).
(e) Comfort Letter. Company and Company L.P. shall have received a comfort letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, as described in Section 6.01(e).
ARTICLE VIII
Termination, Amendment and Waiver
Section 8.01. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the REIT Effective Time, whether before or after receipt of the Required Company Vote:
(a) by the mutual written consent of Parent and the Company;
(b) by either Parent or the Company, if any Governmental Entity of competent authority shall have issued an order, decree or ruling or taken any other action in each case permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the REIT Merger or the OP Merger substantially on the terms contemplated by this Agreement and such order, decree, ruling or other action shall have become final and non-appealable;
(c) by either Parent or the Company, if the REIT Merger has not been consummated by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on April 1, 2006 (the Drop-Dead Date); provided, however, that the right to terminate this Agreement under this Section 8.01(c) shall not be available to any party whose failure to fulfill any obligation under this Agreement has been the primary cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the REIT Effective Time to occur on or before such date and such action or failure to perform constitutes a breach of this Agreement;
(d) by Parent, if (i) the Company Board shall have withdrawn or materially modified its recommendation of this Agreement or the REIT Merger in a manner adverse to Parent or shall have resolved to do so; (ii) the Company shall fail to call or hold the Company Shareholders Meeting in accordance with Section 6.01; (iii) the Company shall have intentionally and materially breached its obligations under Section 6.04; or (iv) the Company shall have entered into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal;
(e) by the Company, if prior to the approval of the REIT Merger pursuant to this Agreement at the Company Shareholders Meeting, the Company Board shall have approved, and the Company shall concurrently enter into, a definitive agreement providing for the implementation of a Superior Proposal; but only if (i) the Company is not then in breach of Section 6.04, and (ii) concurrently with such termination the Company shall have made payment to Parent of the full amounts, if any, required by Sections 8.03(c) and (d) to be paid at that time;
(f) by the Company or Parent, if either (i) the approval by the shareholders of the Company required for the consummation of the REIT Merger shall not have been obtained by reason of the failure to obtain the Required Company Vote at the Company Shareholders Meeting (or any adjournment or postponement thereof) or (ii) the approval by the shareholders of Parent required for the consummation of the REIT Merger shall not have been obtained by reason of the failure to obtain the Required Parent Vote at the Parent Shareholders Meeting (or any adjournment or postponement thereof);
(g) by the Company, if there shall have been a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of Parent or Merger Sub contained in this Agreement such that the conditions set forth in Sections 7.03(a) or (b) would not be satisfied and (A) such breach is not reasonably capable of being cured or (B) in the case of a breach of a covenant or agreement, if such breach is reasonably capable of being cured, such breach shall not have been cured prior to the earlier of (x) 20 business days following notice of such breach and (y) the Drop-Dead Date; provided that the Company shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Section 8.01(g) if the Company or Company L.P. is then in material breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained in this Agreement; and
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(h) by Parent, if there shall have been a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of the Company contained in this Agreement such that the conditions set forth in Sections 7.02(a) or (b) would not be satisfied and (A) such breach is not reasonably capable of being cured or (B) in the case of a breach of a covenant or agreement, if such breach is reasonably capable of being cured, such breach shall not have been cured prior to the earlier of (x) 20 business days following notice of such breach and (y) the Drop-Dead Date; provided that Parent shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Section 8.01(h) if Parent or Merger Sub is then in material breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained in this Agreement.
(i) by Company, if Parent shall fail to call or hold the Parent Shareholders Meeting in accordance with Section 6.01.
Section 8.02. Effect of Termination. In the event of termination of this Agreement by either the Company or Parent as provided in Section 8.01, this Agreement shall forthwith become void and have no effect, without any liability or obligation on the part of any of Parent or the Company, other than the provisions of the Confidentiality Agreement, this Section 8.02, Section 8.03 and Article IX, which provisions shall survive such termination; provided that nothing herein shall relieve any party from any liability for any willful breach by a party of any of its representations, warranties or covenants set forth in this Agreement.
Section 8.03. Fees and Expenses.
(a) Except as otherwise set forth in this Section 8.03, whether or not the REIT Merger and the OP Merger is consummated, all Expenses (as hereinafter defined) incurred in connection with this Agreement and the other transactions contemplated hereby shall be paid by the party incurring such Expenses, provided that Parent and the Company shall each bear and pay one-half of the Expenses incurred in connection with the filing, printing and mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the Partner Exchange Materials; provided, further, however, that the registration fee for the Registration Statement shall be paid by Parent and the filing fee for the Company Proxy Statement shall be paid by the Company. As used in this Agreement, Expenses includes all documented reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including all documented reasonable fees and expenses of counsel, accountants, investment bankers, experts and consultants to a party hereto and its Affiliates) incurred by a party or on its behalf in connection with or related to the authorization, approval, preparation, negotiation, execution and performance of this Agreement and the other transactions contemplated hereby. For the Company, Expenses shall also include any unrecoverable out-of-pocket expenses paid by the Company to terminate the Proposed Barton Skyway Loan and any lost deposits related thereto (such expenses being herein referred to as the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses).
(b) In the event that this Agreement is terminated by (x) the Company pursuant to Section 8.01(g) or Section 8.01(i), (y) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(f)(ii), or (z) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(c) and Parents failure to comply with any obligation under this Agreement has been the primary cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the REIT Effective Time to occur on or before the Drop-Dead Date, then Parent shall promptly (but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination) pay the Company an amount equal to the Companys Expenses (other than the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses) up to $6,000,000, by wire transfer of same day funds to an account designated by the Company. In addition, in the event this Agreement is terminated pursuant to any provision in Section 8.01 other than Section 8.01(d), Section 8.01(e) or Section 8.01(h), then Parent shall promptly (but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination) pay the Company an amount equal to the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses by wire transfer of same day funds to an account designated by the Company which obligation to pay the Company an amount equal to the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses shall be in addition to the Companys obligation under the immediately preceding sentence.
(c) In the event that this Agreement is terminated by (w) the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(f)(i), (x) by the Company pursuant to Section 8.01(e), (y) by Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(d) or (h) or (z) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(c) and Companys failure to comply with any obligation under this Agreement has been the primary cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the REIT Effective Time to occur on or before the Drop-Dead Date, then the Company shall promptly (but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination) pay Parent an amount equal to Parents Expenses up to $6,000,000 by wire transfer of same day funds to an account designated by Parent.
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(d) In addition to any amounts payable to Parent pursuant to Section 8.03(c), in the event that this Agreement is terminated (i) by Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(d) or by the Company pursuant to Section 8.01(e) or (ii) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(f)(i) and (for purposes of this clause (ii)) a Takeover Proposal shall at the time of such termination be publicly proposed or publicly announced and not withdrawn prior to the Company Shareholder Meeting and within 9 months of the termination of this Agreement the Company consummates a Takeover Proposal or enters into any definitive agreement with respect to any Takeover Proposal that is subsequently consummated (whether or not such Takeover Proposal is the same Takeover Proposal which had been received at the time of termination of this Agreement) with any Person, then the Company shall pay Parent an amount equal to $60,000,000 (the Termination Fee) (in addition to the prior or concurrent payment of Parents Expenses pursuant to Section 8.03(c), if applicable), by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account designated by Parent, in the case of a payment as a result of any event referred to in Section 8.03(d)(ii), within three business days after the consummation of the Takeover Proposal, and in the case of a payment as a result of any event referred to in Sections 8.03(d)(i), promptly, but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination.
(e) In addition to any amounts payable to Parent pursuant to Section 8.03(c), in the event that this Agreement is terminated (y) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(f)(i) and the approval by the shareholders of Parent required for the consummation of the REIT Merger was obtained at the Parent Shareholders Meeting (or any adjournment or postponement hereof) or (z) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(c) and Companys failure to comply with any obligation under this Agreement has been the primary cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the REIT Effective Time to occur on or before the Drop-Dead Date, then the Company shall pay Parent an amount equal to the Alternate Fee (as hereinafter defined) (in addition to the prior or concurrent payment of Parents Expenses pursuant to Section 8.03(c), if applicable), by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account designated by Parent, promptly, but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination. Notwithstanding any provisions contained herein to the contrary, if Parent qualifies to receive payment of both the Termination Fee and the Alternate Fee, it shall receive only the Termination Fee and shall not be entitled to the Alternate Fee. The Alternate Fee shall be an amount equal to $12,500,000. In addition to any amounts payable to the Company pursuant to Section 8.03(b), in the event that this Agreement is terminated (x) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(f)(ii) and the approval by the shareholders of the Company required for the consummation of the REIT Merger was obtained at the Company Shareholders Meeting (or any adjournment or postponement hereof), (y) by Company pursuant to Section 8.01(i) or (z) by the Company or Parent pursuant to Section 8.01(c) and Parents failure to comply with any obligation under this Agreement has been the primary cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the REIT Effective Time to occur on or before the Drop-Dead Date, then Parent shall pay the Company an amount equal to the Alternate Fee (in addition to the prior or concurrent payment of Companys Expenses (other than the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses) and/or the Barton Skyway Loan Expenses, as applicable, pursuant to Section 8.03(b)), by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account designated by Company, promptly, but in no event later than three business days after the date of such termination.
(f) The Termination Fee or the Alternate Fee, as the case may be, which is required to be paid pursuant to this Section 8.03 shall not exceed the sum of (A) the maximum amount that can be paid to a party (the Payee) without causing Payee to fail to meet the requirements of Sections 856(c)(2) and (3) of the Code determined as if the payment of such amount did not constitute income described in Sections 856(c)(2)(A)-(H) and 856(c)(3)(A)-(I) of the Code (Qualifying Income), as determined by independent accountants to Payee, and (B) in the event Payee receives and, prior to the date the Termination Fee or the Alternate Fee, as the case may be, is due to be paid to Payee as described above, provides a copy to the paying party (the Payor) of, an opinion or a letter from outside counsel (the Fee Tax Opinion) indicating that Payee has received an opinion of counsel or a ruling from the IRS holding that Payees receipt of the Termination Fee or Alternate Fee, as the case may be, would either constitute Qualifying Income or would be excluded from gross income of Payee within the meaning of Sections 856(c)(2) and (3) of the Code (the REIT Requirements), the amount of the Termination Fee or Alternate Fee, as the case may be, less the amount payable under clause (A) above. In the event that Payee is not able to receive the full amount of the Termination Fee or the Alternate Fee, as the case may be, on the date such fee is due as described above, Payor shall place the amount by which such fee exceeds the amount paid under clause (A) of the preceding
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sentence above (the Unpaid Fee Amount) in escrow and shall not release any portion thereof to Payee unless and until Payee provides the Payor with either one of the following: (x) a letter from Payees independent accountants indicating the maximum portion of the Unpaid Fee Amount that can be paid at that time to Payee without causing Payee to fail to meet the REIT Requirements or (y) a Fee Tax Opinion, in either of which events the Payor shall pay to Payee from the escrow the lesser of the Unpaid Fee Amount and, if applicable, the maximum amount stated in the accountants letter referred to in clause (x) of this sentence. The Payors obligation to pay any portion of the Unpaid Fee Amount shall terminate three (3) years from the date of this Agreement. Amounts remaining in escrow after such obligation terminates shall be released to the Payor.
(g) The Company and Parent agree that the agreements contained in Section 8.03 above are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and that the payments to be made thereunder shall be compensation for the loss suffered by the applicable party as a result of the failure of the REIT Merger to be consummated and constitute liquidated damages and not a penalty.
Section 8.04. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended by the parties hereto, by action taken or authorized by their respective boards of trustees or managers (or other similar entity, as the case may be), at any time before or after approval of the matters presented in connection with the REIT Merger by the shareholders of the Company or Parent, but, after any such approval, no amendment shall be made which by law or in accordance with the rules of the relevant stock exchange requires further approval by such shareholders, partners or members without such further approval. This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.
Section 8.05. Extension; Waiver. At any time prior to the Effective Time, the parties hereto, by action taken or authorized by their respective boards of trustees or managers (or other similar entity, as the case may be), may, to the extent legally allowed, (i) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other acts of the other parties hereto, (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained herein or in any document delivered pursuant hereto and (iii) waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained herein. Any agreement on the part of a party hereto to any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in a written instrument signed on behalf of such party. The failure of any party to this Agreement to assert any of its rights under this Agreement or otherwise shall not constitute a waiver of those rights.
ARTICLE IX
General Provisions
Section 9.01. Nonsurvival of Representations and Warranties. None of the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in this Agreement or in any instrument delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Effective Time, except that this Section 9.01 shall not limit any covenant or agreement of the parties which by its terms contemplates performance after the Effective Time.
Section 9.02. Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed duly given (a) on the date of delivery if delivered personally, or by facsimile, upon confirmation of receipt, (b) on the first business day following the date of dispatch if delivered by a recognized next-day courier service, or (c) on the fifth business day following the date of mailing if delivered by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid. All notices hereunder shall be delivered as set forth below, or pursuant to such other instructions as may be designated in writing by the party to receive such notice:
(a) | if to Parent, Parent L.P., Merger Sub or L.P. Merger Sub, to: |
401 Plymouth Road Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 Attn: Brad A. Molotsky, Senior Vice President and General Counsel Facsimile: (610) 832-4928 |
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with a copy to: | |
Pepper Hamilton LLP 3000 Two Logan Square Philadelphia, PA 19103 Attention: Michael H. Friedman, Esq. Facsimile: (215) 981-4750 |
|
(b) |
if to the Company or Company L.P., to: 3890 West Northwest Highway Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75220 Attention: Gregory S. Imhoff, SVP, Chief Administrative Officer, General Counsel and Secretary Facsimile: (214) 358-6443 |
with a copy to: | |
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 4100 Dallas, Texas 75201 Attention: Michael E. Dillard, P.C. Fax No.: (214) 969-4343 |
|
(c) | if to Prudential,
to: c/o Prudential Real Estate Investors 8 Campus Drive Parsippany, NJ 07054 Attention: James P. Walker Facsimile: (973) 683-1752 |
with a copy to: | |
c/o Prudential
Real Estate Investors 8 Campus Drive Parsippany, NJ 07054 Attention: Joan Hayden, Esq. Fax No.: (973) 683-1778 |
|
and | |
Goodwin Procter
LLP Exchange Place Boston, MA 02109 Attention: Minta E. Kay, P.C. Fax No.: (617) 523-1231 |
Section 9.03. Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement: Actions shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.01(c). Affiliate of any Person means another Person that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such first Person. Agreement shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. A-73 AICPA Statement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(e). Alternate Fee shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(e). Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan shall mean the Companys Amended and Restated Share Purchase Plan dated as of July 1, 2000, as amended by Amendment No. 1 dated as of October 23, 2002, as amended prior to the date hereof. Articles of Merger shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.03(a). Assets means the material properties and assets of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries including, without limitation, the Company Properties. Associate of any Person has the meaning given thereto by Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act. Barton Skyway Loan Expenses shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(a). Cash Adjustment Amount shall mean the aggregate amount of distributions, if any, payable by the Company pursuant to clause (i) of Section 6.11 unless and solely to the extent that any such distributions pursuant to clause (i) also are included within clause (ii) of
Section 6.11. Cash Consideration shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.07(a). CERCLA means the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, 42 U.S.C. Sections 9601 et seq., as amended. Certificate shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.07(c). Charter means the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of the Company, as amended and supplemented prior to the date hereof. Closing shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.02. Closing Date shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.02. Closing Date Market Price means the average closing prices of Parent Common Shares for the ten trading day period ending on the trading date immediately prior to the Closing Date. Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Commitment shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.01(a)(x). Common Exchange Ratio shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.07(a). Common Interest Exchange Ratio shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.09(a)(ii). Company shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. Company Affiliate Letter shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.10. Company Board shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Company Common Shares shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Company Common Units shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.04(c). Company Corporate Budget shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.01(a). Company Deferred Compensation Plan shall mean the (i) Prentiss Property Executive Choice Share Deferral Plan for Trustees, effective February 12, 2003, (ii) Prentiss Properties Executive Choice Share Deferral Plan, effective February 12, 2003, (iii) Prentiss
Properties Executive Choice Deferred Compensation Plan for Trustees, effective February 12, 2003, (iv) Prentiss Properties Limited Inc. Key Employee Share Option Plan, effective February 9, 2000, (v) Prentiss Properties Executive Choice Deferred Compensation Plan,
effective February 12, 2003, (vi) Prentiss Properties Executive Choice Deferred Compensation Plan Trust Agreement, effective June 23, 2003, as each such plan or agreement may have been modified prior to the date hereof, and (vii) any other plan identified in Section
3.15(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter A-74 sponsored or maintained by the Company which permits directors, officers or other key employees of either the Company or Company Subsidiaries to defer compensation as defined under such
plans. Company Development Property shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(k). Company Disclosure Letter means the disclosure letter dated as of the date of this Agreement and delivered to Parent by the Company in connection with the execution hereof. Company Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan means the Companys Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan as in effect on the date hereof. Company Employee Benefit Plans shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.15(a). Company Employees shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.05(a). Company Employment Agreements shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.15(c). Company ERISA Affiliate shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.15(a). Company Financial Advisor means Lazard Freres & Co. LLC Company G.P. shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.04(c). Company GP Conversion shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.14. Company GP Units shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.04(c). Company Ground Leases shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(a). Company Incentive Plans means the Companys (i) 1996 Share Incentive Plan, as amended prior to the date hereof, (ii) 2005 Share Incentive Plan, as amended prior to the date hereof, and (iii) the Trustee Share Incentive Plan. Company Insiders shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.12. Company Intellectual Property shall mean all of the following owned or used by the Company or any Company Subsidiaries in the operation of their respective businesses: (i) trademarks, service marks, trade dress, trade names, designs and logos, all applications or
registrations in any jurisdiction pertaining to the foregoing and all goodwill associated therewith; (ii) inventions, discoveries, improvements, ideas, know-how, processes, technology, computer programs and software (including source code, object code, documentation,
programming tools, drawings, specifications and data) and applications and patents in any jurisdiction pertaining to the foregoing, including re-issues, continuations, divisions, continuations-in-part, renewals or extensions; (iii) trade secrets, including confidential and other
non-public information, and the right in any jurisdiction to limit the use or disclosure thereof; (iv) copyrights in writings, designs, software programs and software, applications or registrations in any jurisdiction for the foregoing and moral rights related thereto; (v) databases
and database rights; and (vi) Internet Web sites, domain names and applications and registrations pertaining thereto and all intellectual property used in connection with or contained in all versions of such Internet Web sites, together with all licenses and other agreements
providing the Company and any Company Subsidiary with the right to use any item of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (vi). Company L.P. shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. Company L.P. Partnership Agreement means the Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Company L.P., dated as of October 1, 2001, as amended prior to the date hereof. Company L.P. Units means Company Common Units and Company GP Units. Company Material Adverse Effect means a material adverse effect on the business, properties, liabilities, financial condition or results of operations of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or which materially impairs or materially delays the
ability of any such Person to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided, however, that a Company Material Adverse Effect shall not include any change with respect to the Company or any Company Subsidiary resulting from or attributable to (i)
general national, international or regional economic conditions or securities markets in A-75 general, (ii) the announcement, execution or consummation of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, or (iii) conditions generally affecting the industry in which the Company
and the Company Subsidiaries operate (except to the extent disproportionately affecting such Person, relative to other industry participants). Company Multiemployer Plan shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.15(e)(ii). Company Option shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.08(a). Company Organizational Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.01. Company Owned Properties shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(a). Company Pension Plans shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.15(a). Company Permits shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.12. Company Preferred Shares shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.04(a). Company Properties shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(a). Company Property Agreements shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(d). Company Property Owner means the Company, each Company Subsidiary and each joint venture (whether formed as a joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability company or otherwise) identified in Section 3.17(e) of the Company Disclosure Letter, which
owns or leases any Company Property. Company Property Restrictions shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(b). Company Proxy Statement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.03(d). Company Rights Agreement means the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of January 22, 2002 between the Company and Computer Share, f.k.a. EquiServe Trust Company, N.A., as amended prior to the date hereof. Company SEC Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.06(a). Company Section 16 Information shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.12. Company Series D Preferred Shares shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.04(a). Company Shareholders Meeting shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(c). Company Subsidiaries means all of the Subsidiaries of the Company. Confidentiality Agreement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.02. Contract means any lease, license, loan or credit agreement, indenture, note, bond, agreement, guarantee, permit, concession, franchise or other contract, commitment, agreement, instrument, arrangement, understanding, obligation, undertaking, permit, license, whether
oral or written (each, including all amendments thereto). Corporate Employees shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.05(b). Development Budget and Schedule shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(k). Director Nominees shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.18. DLLCA shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Drop-Dead Date shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.01(c). DRULPA shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Effective Time shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.03(b). A-76 Encumbrance means all pledges, claims, liens, charges, restrictions, controls, easements, rights of way, exceptions, reservations, licenses, grants, covenants and conditions, encumbrances and security interests of any kind or nature whatsoever. Environmental Law means any Law of any Governmental Entity, with jurisdiction over the Company Subsidiaries, relating to the protection of human health, safety, natural resources or the environment. ERISA means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and such regulations issued thereunder. Exchange Act shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.03(d)(iv). Exchange Agent shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 2.01. Exchange Fund shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 2.01. Exercise shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.11(a). Existing Company Title Policies shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(a). Existing Parent Title Policies shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(a). Expenses shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(a). Fee Tax Opinion shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(f). Final Condition Notice shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.01. Final Condition Notice Date shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.01. Final Condition Satisfaction Date shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.02. GAAP means generally accepted accounting principles. Governmental Entity means any United States federal, state or local or foreign government, governmental, regulatory or administrative authority, agency or commission or any court, tribunal, or judicial or arbitral body. Hazardous Material means (i) any petroleum or petroleum products, radioactive materials, asbestos-containing materials, urea formaldehyde foam insulation and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); (ii) any chemicals, materials, substances or wastes which are defined
as or included in the definition of hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, hazardous materials, extremely hazardous wastes, restricted hazardous wastes, toxic substances, toxic pollutants, pollutant, contaminant or words of similar import, or regulated as
such, under any Environmental Law or for which a Person may be subject to liability under any Environmental Law. Initial Dividend shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.11. IRS means the United States Internal Revenue Service. Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(a). Knowledge, or any similar expression, means with respect to a Person, the actual knowledge of any of the individuals set forth on Section 9.03 to the Company Disclosure Letter with respect to the Company and Section 9.03 of the Parent Disclosure Letter with
respect to Parent. Law means any statute, law, regulation, order, interpretation, permit, license, approval, authorization, rule or ordinance of any Governmental Entity applicable to Parent, Merger Sub or the Company or any of their respective Subsidiaries. LLC Conversion shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.14. L.P. Merger Sub shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. L.P. Merger Sub Organizational Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.02(b). A-77 Maryland REIT Law shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Material Contracts means (i) any loan agreement, indenture, note, bond, debenture, mortgage or any other document, agreement or instrument evidencing a capitalized lease obligation or other indebtedness to any Person, other than indebtedness in a principal amount
less than $750,000 and (ii) each commitment, contractual obligation, capital expenditure or transaction entered into by the Company or any Company Subsidiary which may result in total payments to or by or liability of the Company or any Company Subsidiary in excess of
$750,000 in any one fiscal year, other than the Company Ground Leases or Space Leases; provided, however, that any contract, agreement or other arrangement under clause (ii) above that, by its terms, is terminable within 30 days (without termination fee or penalty) of the
date of this Agreement shall not be deemed to be a Material Contract. Merger Sub shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. Merger Sub Organizational Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.02(b). Microbial Matter means fungi, bacterial or viral matter which reproduces through the release of spores or the splitting of cells or other means, including, but not limited to, mold, mildew and viruses, whether or not such Microbial Matter is living, which is likely to
result in serious injury to any person or serious damage to any property. MLLCA shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. New Parent Option shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.08(a). NYSE shall mean the New York Stock Exchange. OP Closing shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.02. OP Effective Time shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.03(b). OP Merger shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. OP Merger Certificate shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.03(b). OP Merger Consideration shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.09(a)(ii). Option Exchange Ratio shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.08(a). Parent shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. Parent Board shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.06(c). Parent Class A Units shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.04(c). Parent Common Shares shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.04(a). Parent Corporate Budget shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.02. Parent Development Property shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(k). Parent Disclosure Letter means the disclosure letter dated as of the date of this Agreement and delivered to the Company by Parent in connection with the execution hereof. Parent Employee Benefit Plans shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.15(a). Parent Employment Agreements shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.15(c). Parent ERISA Affiliate shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.15(a). Parent Financial Advisor means J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. Parent Ground Leases shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(a). Parent Intellectual Property shall mean all of the following owned or used by Parent or any Parent Subsidiary in the operation of their respective businesses: (i) trademarks, service marks, trade dress, trade A-78 names, designs and logos, all applications or registrations in any jurisdiction pertaining to the foregoing and all goodwill associated therewith; (ii) inventions, discoveries, improvements, ideas,
know-how, processes, technology, computer programs and software (including source code, object code, documentation, programming tools, drawings, specifications and data) and applications
and patents in any jurisdiction pertaining to the foregoing, including re-issues, continuations, divisions, continuations-in-part, renewals or extensions; (iii) trade secrets, including confidential and
other non-public information, and the right in any jurisdiction to limit the use or disclosure thereof; (iv) copyrights in writings, designs, software programs and software, applications or
registrations in any jurisdiction for the foregoing and moral rights related thereto; (v) databases and database rights; and (vi) Internet Web sites, domain names and applications and registrations
pertaining thereto and all intellectual property used in connection with or contained in all versions of such Internet Web sites, together with all licenses and other agreements providing Parent
and any Parent Subsidiary with the right to use any item of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (vi). Parent L.P. shall have the meaning given thereto in the Introduction. Parent L.P. Partnership Agreement means the Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Parent, as amended and supplemented from time to time. Parent Material Adverse Effect means a material adverse effect on the business, properties, liabilities, financial condition or results of operations of Parent and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or which materially impairs or materially delays the ability of Parent to
consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided, however, that a Parent Material Adverse Effect shall not include any change with respect to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary resulting from or attributable to (i) general national, international or regional
economic conditions or securities markets in general, (ii) the announcement, execution or consummation of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, or (iii) conditions generally affecting the industry in which Parent and Parent Subsidiaries operate (except to
the extent disproportionately affecting such Person, relative to other industry participants). Parent Multiemployer Plan shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.15(e)(ii). Parent Options shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.04(a). Parent Organizational Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.01. Parent Owned Properties shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(a). Parent Pension Plans shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.15(a). Parent Permit shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.12. Parent Preferred Units shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.04(c). Parent Properties shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(a). Parent Property Agreements shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(d). Parent Property Owner means the Parent, each Parent Subsidiary and each joint venture (whether formed as a joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability company or otherwise) identified on Section 4.9(a) of the Parent Disclosure Letter, which owns or leases
any Parent Property. Parent Property Restrictions shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(b). Parent Proxy Statement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.03(d). Parent Rent Roll shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(i). Parent SEC Documents shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.06(a). Parent Series E Preferred Shares shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.07(d). Parent Shareholders Meeting shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(d). Parent Subsidiaries means all of the Subsidiaries of Parent. A-79 Partner Exchange Materials shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(f). Payee shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(f). Payor shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(f). Permitted Company Encumbrances shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(a). Permitted Parent Encumbrances shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.09(a). Person means any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, company, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, unincorporated organization, Governmental Entity or other entity. Post-Signing Returns shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.01(c). PPREFI Portfolio Loan shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.15. Principal Company Limited Partners shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. Private Letter Ruling shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.22. Projects shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(k). Proposed Barton Skyway Loan shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 5.01(a)(ix). Prudential means The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a New Jersey corporation. Prudential Asset Purchase Agreement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.02. Prudential Asset Purchase Closing Date shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.02. Prudential Asset Sale shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.02. Qualifying Amendment shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(b). Qualifying Income shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(f). Registrable Securities shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.16. Registration Statement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.01(a). REIT shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.14(c). REIT Closing shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.02. REIT Effective Time shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.03(a). REIT Merger shall have the meaning given thereto in the Recitals. REIT Merger Consideration shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.07(a). REIT Requirements shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 8.03(f). Release means any past or present release, spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, escaping, injecting, dumping or disposing into the environment (including, without limitation, ambient air, surface water, groundwater, and surface or
subsurface strata) as regulated by CERCLA or any other applicable Environmental Laws. Rent Roll shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.09(i). Representatives of a Person means such Persons officers, trustees, directors, employees, investment bankers, attorneys, accountants, auditors or other advisors or representatives. Required Company Vote shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.03(a). Required Parent Vote shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 4.03(a). Reverse REIT Merger shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.05(a). A-80 Rule 145 shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.10. Sarbanes-Oxley Act shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.06(b). SEC shall mean the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Section 409A shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.05(i). Securities Act shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.06(b). Shelf Registration Statement shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.16. Significant Subsidiary means any Subsidiary of the Company whose assets constitute 10% or more of the assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole. Space Lease means any lease or other occupancy agreement affecting a Company Property. Special Company L.P. Distribution shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.03. Special Dividend shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.03. Special Dividend Amount shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 10.03. Subject Properties means the Company Properties identified under the caption Subject Properties in Section 5.01(a)(viii) of the Company Disclosure Letter. Subsequent Determination shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.04(e). Subsidiary of any Person shall mean any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, real estate investment trust, joint venture or other legal entity of which such Person (either directly or through or together with another Subsidiary of such Person) (i) owns at
least 50% of the voting stock or value of such corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture or other legal entity, or (ii) otherwise has the ability to elect a majority of the directors, trustees or managing members thereof. Superior Proposal shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.04(d). Surviving Company shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.01(a), subject to Section 10.5. Surviving L.P. shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 1.01(b). Takeover Proposal shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 6.04(a). Takeover Statutes shall have the meaning given thereto in Section 3.25(a). Tax or Taxes means (i) any and all taxes, fees, levies, duties, tariffs, imposts, and other charges of any kind whatsoever imposed by any Governmental Entity (including, without limitation, taxes or other charges on or with respect to income, alternative minimum
tax, franchises, windfall or other profits, gross receipts, excise, excess distributions, impositions, property, sales, use, capital stock, payroll, employment, social security, workers compensation, unemployment compensation, or net worth; withholding, ad valorem, stamp, transfer,
mortgage recording, value added, or gains taxes; license, registration and documentation fees; and customs duties, tariffs, and similar charges), (ii) any interest or penalties, additions to tax or additional amounts imposed by any Governmental Entity in connection with (A) any
item described in clause (i) or (B) the failure to comply with any requirement imposed with respect to any Tax Return, and (iii) any obligation with respect to Taxes described in clause (i) and/or (ii) above payable by reason of contract, assumption, transferee liability,
operation of Law, Treasury Regulation 1 1.1502-6 (or any predecessor or successor thereof or any analogous or similar provision under Law) or otherwise. Tax Protection Arrangement means an agreement or arrangement, oral or written, (A) that has as one of its purposes to permit a Person or entity to take the position that such Person or entity could defer federal taxable income that otherwise might have been
recognized upon a transfer of property to the Company or any Company Subsidiary that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and (B) that (i) prohibits or restricts in any manner the disposition of any assets of the Company or any Company
Subsidiary, (including, without limitation, requiring the Company or any Company Subsidiary to indemnify any Person for any Tax liabilities resulting from any such disposition), (ii) requires that the Company or any Company A-81