Post Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON MAY 22, 2003
Registration No. 333-104502
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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
POST EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
FORM S-3
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
MONMOUTH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
Delaware 22-1897375
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
Juniper Business Plaza, Suite 3-C, 3499 Route 9 North,
Freehold, New Jersey 07728
732-577-9996
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of
registrant's principal executive offices)
Anna T. Chew
Juniper Business Plaza, Suite 3-C, 3499 Route 9 North,
Freehold, New Jersey 07728
732-577-9996
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)
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Copies to:
Gary D. Gilson
Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin, LLP
Two Pershing Square
2300 Main Street, Suite 1000
Kansas City, Missouri 64108
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Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:
From time to time after the Registration Statement becomes effective
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If the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered
pursuant to dividend or interest reinvestment plans, please check the following
box. [ ]
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, other than securities offered only in connection with dividend or interest
reinvestment plans, check the following box. [X]
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please 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(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registrations statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [ ] ___________
If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box. [ ]
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The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates
as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file
a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement
shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the
Securities Act of 1933 or until this Registration Statement shall become
effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.
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EXPLANATORY NOTE
On May 15, 2003, Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, a
Maryland corporation ("Monmouth Maryland") became the successor issuer to
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Monmouth
Delaware"), as a result of the merger of Monmouth Delaware with and into
Monmouth Maryland, with Monmouth Maryland being the surviving corporation.
Immediately prior to the merger, Monmouth Maryland had no assets or liabilities
other than nominal assets or liabilities. Monmouth Maryland acquired all of the
assets and assumed all of the liabilities and obligations of Monmouth Delaware
in the merger. Pursuant to Rule 414(d) promulgated under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, Monmouth Maryland, as a successor issuer to Monmouth Delaware,
hereby expressly adopts the Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No.
333-104502) as its own Registration Statement for all purposes of the Securities
Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. These
securities may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer
to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these
securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
Subject to Completion
Preliminary Prospectus dated May 22, 2003
PROSPECTUS
1,257,253 Shares
MONMOUTH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION
Common Stock
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This prospectus relates to 1,257,253 shares of our common stock, par
value $.01 per share that may be offered by Palisade Concentrated Equity
Partnership, L.P., the selling stockholder, from time to time in transactions on
the Nasdaq Stock Market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise at
fixed prices or prices which may be changed, at market prices prevailing at the
time of the sale, at prices related to market prices prevailing at the time of
the sale, or at negotiated prices. We originally issued these shares to the
selling stockholder in a private placement transaction exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act pursuant to rule 506 promulgated
under the Securities Act.
We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the shares by
the selling stockholder. All proceeds will go to the selling stockholder. All
expenses of registration incurred in connection with this offering are being
borne by us, but all selling and other expenses incurred by the selling
stockholder will be borne by the selling stockholder.
Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol
"MNRTA." On May 21, 2003, the closing price of our common stock on the Nasdaq
Stock Market was $8.15 a share.
An investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. See
"Risk Factors" beginning on page 5 of this prospectus for a discussion of risk
factors that you should consider in connection with an investment in our common
stock.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the
adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.
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The date of this prospectus is May 22, 2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS..................................................1
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION....................................1
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE........................2
MONMOUTH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION............................4
RISK FACTORS...........................................................6
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.......................11
USE OF PROCEEDS.......................................................11
SELLING STOCKHOLDER...................................................12
DESCRIPTION OF COMMON STOCK...........................................13
MATERIAL UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES................16
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION..................................................31
LEGAL MATTERS.........................................................32
EXPERTS...............................................................32
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ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we filed with
the SEC using a "shelf" registration process. You should rely only on the
information contained in this prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to
provide you with information different from that which is contained in this
prospectus. The information in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date
of this prospectus, regardless of the time of delivery of the prospectus or any
sale of common stock.
Under this process, from time to time the selling stockholder may sell
in one or more offerings up to 1,257,253 shares of our common stock. We will not
receive any proceeds from any sale of shares by the selling stockholder. You
should read this prospectus together with the additional information described
under the heading "Where you Can Find More Information" in this prospectus. The
registration statement that contains this prospectus and the exhibits to that
registration statement contain additional important information about us and the
common stock offered under this prospectus. Specifically, we have filed certain
legal documents that control the terms of the common stock as exhibits to the
registration statement. We may file certain other legal documents that control
the terms of the common stock as exhibits to reports we file with the SEC. That
registration statement and the other reports can be read at the SEC's website or
at the SEC offices mentioned under the heading "Where You Can Find More
Information," or can be obtained by writing or telephoning us at the following
address and telephone number:
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation
Attention: Shareholder Relations
3499 Route 9 N, Suite 3-C
Juniper Business Plaza
Freehold, NJ 07728
(732) 577-9996
In this prospectus, "we," us," "our," "Monmouth," or the "Company"
refers to Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, together with its
predecessors and subsidiaries unless the context requires otherwise.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement under the
Securities Act with respect to the securities offered hereunder. As permitted by
the SEC's rules and regulations, this prospectus does not contain all the
information set forth in the registration statement. For further information
regarding our company and our common stock, please refer to the registration
statement and the contracts, agreements and other documents filed as exhibits to
the registration statement. Additionally, we file annual, quarterly and special
reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.
You may read and copy all or any portion of the registration statement
or any other materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC's public reference
room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference
rooms. Our SEC filings, including the registration statement,
are also available to you on the SEC's website (http://www.sec.gov). We also
have a website (www.mreic.com) through which you may access our recent SEC
filings. Information contained on our website is not part of this prospectus. In
addition, you may look at our SEC filings at the offices of the Nasdaq Stock
Market, Inc., which is located at 1500 Broadway, New York, New York 10036. Our
SEC filings are available through the Nasdaq Stock Market because our Common
Stock is listed and traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol "MNRTA".
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
The SEC allows us to "incorporate by reference" the information
contained in documents that we file with them. That means we can disclose
important information to you by referring you to those documents. The
information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this
prospectus, and information that we later file with the SEC will automatically
update and supersede this information.
As a successor to Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, a
Delaware corporation ("Monmouth Delaware"), we incorporate by reference the
documents listed below and any future filings we make with the SEC pursuant to
Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, until all the securities offered by this prospectus are sold.
o Annual Report on Form 10-K of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the SEC
on December 23, 2002.
o Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the
SEC on February 13, 2003.
o Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the
SEC on May 14, 2003.
o Current Report on Form 8-K of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the SEC
on November 18, 2002.
o Current Report on Form 8-K of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the SEC
on February 28, 2003.
o Current Report on Form 8-K of Monmouth Delaware, as filed with the SEC
on April 4, 2003.
o Our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on May 15, 2003.
o Our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on May 20, 2003.
o Our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on May 21, 2003.
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You may request a free copy of these filings (other than exhibits,
unless they are specifically incorporated by reference in the documents) by
writing or telephoning us at the following address and telephone number:
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation
Attention: Shareholder Relations
3499 Route 9 N, Suite 3-C
Juniper Business Plaza
Freehold, NJ 07728
(732) 577-9996
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MONMOUTH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation is a Maryland corporation
operating as a qualified real estate investment trust under Sections 856 through
858 of the Internal Revenue Code. Currently, we seek to invest in well-located,
modern buildings leased to creditworthy tenants on long-term leases and derive
our income primarily from the rental of these facilities. At September 30, 2002,
we owned approximately 2,986,000 square feet of property, of which approximately
944,000 square feet, or 32%, is leased to Federal Express Corporation and its
subsidiaries and approximately 301,000 square feet, or 10%, is leased to Keebler
Company. During fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 rental and occupancy charges from
properties leased to these companies approximated 52%, 55% and 52%,
respectively, of total rental and occupancy charges.
At September 30, 2002, we had investments in thirty properties. These
properties are located in Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas,
Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey,
New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. All
properties are managed by a management company. All properties are leased on a
net basis except the property located in Monaca, Pennsylvania.
We compete with other investors in real estate for attractive
investment opportunities. These investors include other "equity" real estate
investment trusts, limited partnerships, syndications and private investors,
among others.
We have a flexible investment policy concentrating our investments in
the area of net-leased industrial properties. Our strategy is to obtain a
favorable yield spread between the yield from the net-leased industrial
properties and mortgage interest costs. We continue to purchase net-leased
industrial properties, since our management believes that there is a potential
for long-term capital appreciation through investing in well-located industrial
properties. There is the risk that, on expiration of current leases, the
properties can become vacant or re-leased at lower rents. The results we obtain
by re-leasing the properties will depend on the market for industrial properties
at that time.
We also continue to invest in both debt and equity securities of other
real estate investment trusts (REITs). We from time to time may purchase these
securities on margin when the interest and dividend yields exceed the cost of
the funds. Such securities are subject to risk arising from adverse changes in
market rates and prices, primarily interest rate risk relating to debt
securities and equity price risk relating to equity securities.
We are a Maryland corporation. Our executive offices are located at
Juniper Business Plaza, Suite 3-C, 3499 Route 9 North, Freehold, New Jersey
07728, and our telephone number is (732) 577-9996. Our website is located at
www.mreic.com. Information contained on our website is not a part of this
prospectus.
Recent Developments
On May 19, 2003, we secured a line of credit from UnitedTrust Bank to
replace a $6,256,000 line of credit that was to expire in November, 2003. The
amount of the new line of credit is $10,000,000 during the first year and
$15,000,000 thereafter.
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On May 15, 2003, we became the successor issuer to Monmouth Real Estate
Investment Corporation, a Delaware corporation, as a result of the merger of
Monmouth Delaware with and into us. We were the surviving corporation.
Immediately prior to the merger, we had no assets
or liabilities other than nominal assets or liabilities. We acquired all of the
assets and assumed all of the liabilities and obligations of Monmouth Delaware
in the merger.
On April 1, 2003, we purchased a 179,280 square foot industrial
building in Edwardsville, Kansas from BODU Partners. This property is 100% net
leased to Carlisle Tire and Wheel Company, a subsidiary of Carlisle Companies,
Inc., for 10 years. The purchase price was approximately $7,000,000. We used
approximately $2,200,000 of our revolving line of credit with Fleet Bank and
obtained a mortgage of approximately $4,800,000. The purchase of this property
represents our third acquisition of an industrial property since our fiscal year
began on October 1, 2002.
On February 27, 2003, we issued 1,257,233 shares of our common stock to
Palisade Concentrated Equity Partnership, L.P. for $8,324,900.70 in a private
placement transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the
Securities Act pursuant to Rule 506 promulgated under the Securities Act. We
used the proceeds from that transaction to repay outstanding indebtedness and
for working capital purposes.
On November 6, 2002, we purchased a 288,211 square foot manufacturing
and warehouse facility in Tolleson, Arizona from Centex Industrial Buckeye I,
LLC. This warehouse facility is 100% net leased to Western Container
Corporation, which manufactures plastic bottles for Coca-Cola soft drink
products. The lease is guaranteed by Coca-Cola Enterprises. The purchase price
was approximately $14,800,000. We paid approximately $550,000 in cash, borrowed
approximately $2,200,000 against our security portfolio with Prudential
Securities, used approximately $1,100,000 of our revolving line of credit with
Fleet Bank and obtained a mortgage of approximately $10,950,000. This mortgage
payable is at an interest rate of 5.8% and is due November 1, 2012.
On November 21, 2002, we purchased a 90,020 square foot warehouse
facility in Ft. Myers, Florida from Jones Development Company, LLC. This
warehouse facility is 100% net leased to Fed Ex Ground Package System, Inc., a
subsidiary of Federal Express Corporation. The purchase price was approximately
$4,400,000. We paid approximately $1,200,000 in cash and obtained a mortgage of
approximately $3,200,000. This mortgage payable is at an interest rate of 6.33%
and is due November 1, 2012. This purchase resulted in an additional
concentration of our properties leased to Federal Express and its subsidiaries,
and as a result our financial condition is further dependent on Federal Express.
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RISK FACTORS
Set forth below are the risks that we believe are important to
investors in our common stock. Before you decide to purchase our common stock,
you should consider carefully the risks described below, together with the
information provided in the other parts of this prospectus. From time to time,
we may make forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act and Section 21F of the Exchange Act) in documents filed under the
Securities Act, the Exchange Act, press releases or other public statements. If
we make forward-looking statements, we assume no obligation to update
forward-looking statements. Potential investors should not place undue reliance
on forward-looking statements as they involve numerous risks and uncertainties
that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results stated or
implied in the forward-looking statements. In addition to specific factors that
may be disclosed simultaneously with any forward-looking statement, some of the
factors related to us and our businesses that could cause actual results to
differ materially from a forward-looking statement are set forth below, and
elsewhere in this prospectus and in the documents we incorporate by reference.
Real Estate Industry Risks
We face risks associated with local real estate conditions in areas
where we own properties. We may be affected adversely by general economic
conditions and local real estate conditions. For example, an oversupply of
industrial properties in a local area or a decline in the attractiveness of our
properties to tenants would have a negative effect on us.
Other factors that may affect general economic conditions or local real
estate conditions include:
o population and demographic trends;
o zoning, use and other regulatory restrictions;
o income tax laws;
o changes in interest rates and availability and costs of
financing;
o competition from other available real estate;
o our ability to provide adequate maintenance and insurance; and
o increased operating costs, including insurance premiums and real
estate taxes.
We may be unable to compete with our larger competitors and other
alternatives available to tenants or potential tenants of our properties. The
real estate business is highly competitive. We compete for properties with other
real estate investors, including other real estate investment trusts, limited
partnerships, syndications and private investors, many of whom have greater
financial resources, revenues, and geographical diversity than we have.
Furthermore, we compete for tenants with other property owners. All of our
industrial properties are subject to significant local competition. We also
compete with a wide variety of institutions
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and other investors for capital funds necessary to support our investment
activities and asset growth.
We are subject to significant regulation that inhibits our activities
and increases our costs. Local zoning and use laws, environmental statutes and
other governmental requirements may restrict expansion, rehabilitation and
reconstruction activities. These regulations may prevent us from taking
advantage of economic opportunities. Legislation such as the Americans with
Disabilities Act may require us to modify our properties. Future legislation may
impose additional requirements. We cannot predict what requirements may be
enacted or what changes may be implemented to existing legislation.
Risks Associated with Our Properties
We may be unable to renew leases or relet space as leases expire. While
we seek to invest in well-located, modern buildings leased to credit-worthy
tenants on long term leases, a number of our properties are subject to short
term leases. When a lease expires, a tenant may elect not to renew it. We may
not be able to relet the property on similar terms, if we are able to relet the
property at all. We have established an annual budget for renovation and
reletting expenses that we believe is reasonable in light of each property's
operating history and local market characteristics. This budget, however, may
not be sufficient to cover these expenses.
We have been and may continue to be affected negatively by tenant
financial difficulties and leasing delays. A general decline in the economy may
result in a decline in the demand for industrial space. As a result, our tenants
may delay lease commencement, fail to make rental payments when due, or declare
bankruptcy. Any such event could result in the termination of that tenant's
lease and losses to us. We receive a substantial portion of our income as rents
under long-term leases. If tenants are unable to comply with the terms of their
leases because of rising costs or falling sales, we, in our sole discretion, may
deem it advisable to modify lease terms to allow tenants to pay a lower rental
or a smaller share of operating costs, taxes and insurance.
We may be unable to sell properties when appropriate because real
estate investments are illiquid. Real estate investments generally cannot be
sold quickly and, therefore, will tend to limit our ability to vary our property
portfolio promptly in response to changes in economic or other conditions. The
inability to respond promptly to changes in the performance of our property
portfolio could adversely affect our financial condition and ability to serve
debt and make distributions to our stockholders.
Environmental liabilities could affect our profitability. We face
possible environmental liabilities. Current and former real estate owners and
operators may be required by law to investigate and clean up hazardous
substances released at the properties they own or operate. They may also be
liable to the government or to third parties for property damage, investigation
costs and cleanup costs. Contamination may affect adversely the owner's ability
to sell or lease real estate or to borrow using the real estate as collateral.
We have no way of determining at this time the magnitude of any
potential liability to which we may be subject arising out of unknown
environmental conditions or violations with
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respect to the properties we own or formerly owned. Environmental laws today can
impose liability on a previous owner or operator of a property that owned or
operated the property at a time when hazardous or toxic substances were disposed
on, or released from, the property. A conveyance of the property, therefore,
does not relieve the owner or operator from liability.
We are not aware of any environmental liabilities relating to our
investment properties which would have a material adverse effect on our
business, assets, or results of operations. However, we cannot assure you that
environmental liabilities will not arise in the future.
If our insurance coverage is inadequate or we cannot obtain acceptable
insurance coverage, our operations could be materially adversely affected. We
generally maintain insurance policies related to our business, including
casualty, general liability and other policies covering business operations,
employees and assets. We may be required to bear all losses that are not
adequately covered by insurance. Although our management believes that our
insurance programs are adequate, no assurance can be given that we will not
incur losses in excess of our insurance coverage, or that we will be able to
obtain insurance in the future at acceptable levels and reasonable cost.
Financing Risks
We face risks generally associated with our debt. We finance a portion
of our investments through debt. This debt creates risks, including:
o rising interest rates on our floating rate debt;
o failure to repay or refinance existing debt as it matures, which
may result in forced disposition of assets on disadvantageous
terms;
o refinancing terms less favorable than the terms of existing debt;
and
o failure to meet required payments of principal and/or interest.
We face risks associated with the use of debt to fund acquisitions,
including refinancing risk. We are subject to the risks normally associated with
debt financing, including the risk that our cash flow will be insufficient to
meet required payments of principal and interest. We anticipate that a portion
of the principal of our debt will not be repaid prior to maturity. Therefore, we
will likely need to refinance at least a portion of our outstanding debt as it
matures. There is a risk that we may not be able to refinance existing debt or
that the terms of any refinancing will not be as favorable as the terms of the
existing debt. If principal payments due at maturity cannot be refinanced,
extended or repaid with proceeds from other sources, such as new equity capital
or sales of properties, our cash flow will not be sufficient to repay all
maturing debt in years when significant "balloon" payments come due. As a
result, we may be forced to dispose of properties on disadvantageous terms.
We may amend our business policies without your approval. Our board of
directors determines our growth, investment, financing, capitalization,
borrowing, REIT status, operations and distributions policies. Although our
board of directors has no present intention to amend or reverse any of these
policies, they may be amended or revised without notice to stockholders.
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Accordingly, stockholders may not have control over changes in our policies. We
cannot assure you that changes in our policies will serve fully the interests of
all stockholders.
Other Risks
The market value of our common stock could decrease based on our
performance and market perception and conditions. The market value of our common
stock may be based primarily upon the market's perception of our growth
potential and current and future cash dividends, and may be secondarily based
upon the real estate market value of our underlying assets. The market price of
our common stock is influenced by the dividend on our common stock relative to
market interest rates. Rising interest rates may lead potential buyers of our
common stock to expect a higher dividend rate, which would adversely affect the
market price of our common stock. In addition, rising interest rates would
result in increased expense, thereby adversely affecting cash flow and our
ability to service our indebtedness and pay dividends.
There are restrictions on the transfer of our common stock. To maintain
our qualification as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the
"Code"), no more than 50% in value of our outstanding capital stock may be
owned, actually or by attribution, by five or fewer individuals, as defined in
the Code to also include certain entities, during the last half of a taxable
year. Accordingly, our charter and bylaws contain provisions restricting the
transfer of our capital stock. See "Description of Common Stock - REIT Related
Restrictions."
Our earnings are dependent, in part, upon the performance of our
investment portfolio. As permitted by the Code, we invest in and own securities
of other real estate investment trusts. To the extent that the value of those
investments declines or those investments do not provide a return, our earnings
could be adversely affected.
We are subject to restrictions that may impede our ability to effect a
change in control. Certain provisions contained in our charter and bylaws, and
certain provisions of Maryland law may have the effect of discouraging a third
party from making an acquisition proposal for us and thereby inhibit a change in
control.
We may fail to qualify as a REIT. If we fail to qualify as a REIT, we
will not be allowed to deduct distributions to stockholders in computing our
taxable income and will be subject to Federal income tax, including any
applicable alternative minimum tax, at regular corporate rates. In addition, we
might be barred from qualification as a REIT for the four years following
disqualification. The additional tax incurred at regular corporate rates would
reduce significantly the cash flow available for distribution to stockholders
and for debt service.
Furthermore, we would no longer be required to make any distributions
to our stockholders as a condition to REIT qualification. Any distributions to
stockholders that otherwise would have been subject to tax as capital gain
dividends would be taxable as ordinary income to the extent of our current and
accumulated earnings and profits. Corporate distributees, however, may be
eligible for the dividends received deduction on the distributions, subject to
limitations under the Code.
To qualify as a REIT, and to continue to qualify as a REIT, we must
comply with certain highly technical and complex requirements. We cannot be
certain we have complied,
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and will always be able to comply, with these requirements. In addition, facts
and circumstances that may be beyond our control may affect our ability to
continue to qualify as a REIT. We cannot assure you that new legislation,
regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions will not change
the tax laws significantly with respect to our qualification as a REIT or with
respect to the federal income tax consequences of qualification. We believe that
we have qualified as a REIT since our inception and intend to continue to
qualify as a REIT. However, we cannot assure you that we are qualified or will
remain qualified.
We may be unable to comply with the strict income distribution
requirements applicable to REITs. To obtain the favorable tax treatment
associated with qualifying as a REIT, among other requirements, we are required
each year to distribute to our stockholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable
income. We will be subject to corporate income tax on any undistributed REIT
taxable income. In addition, we will incur a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the
amount by which our distributions in any calendar year are less than the sum of
(i) 85% of our ordinary income for the year, (ii) 95% of our capital gain net
income for the year, and (iii) any undistributed taxable income from prior
years. We could be required to borrow funds on a short-term basis to meet the
distribution requirements that are necessary to achieve the tax benefits
associated with qualifying as a REIT (and to avoid corporate income tax and the
4% excise tax), even if conditions were not favorable for borrowing.
Notwithstanding our status as a REIT, we are subject to various
federal, state and local taxes on our income and property. For example, we will
be taxed at regular corporate rates on any undistributed taxable income,
including undistributed net capital gains, provided, however, that properly
designated undistributed capital gains will effectively avoid taxation at the
stockholder level. We may be subject to other federal income taxes as more fully
described in "Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences-Taxation of
Us as a REIT." We may also have to pay some state income or franchise taxes
because not all states treat REITs in the same manner as they are treated for
federal income tax purposes.
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DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We have made forward-looking statements with respect to our financial
condition, results of operations and business. Words such as "anticipates,"
"expects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar
expressions as they relate to us or our management are intended to identify
forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees
of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including
those described under "Risk Factors" in this prospectus and those in the
documents we incorporate by reference that could cause actual results to differ
materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements.
In evaluating the securities offered by this prospectus, you should
carefully consider the discussion of risks and uncertainties in the section
entitled "Risk Factors" beginning on page 5 of this prospectus.
USE OF PROCEEDS
The selling stockholder, Palisade Concentrated Equity Partnership, L.P.
is selling all of the shares covered by this prospectus for its own account.
Accordingly, we will not receive any proceeds from the resale of the shares
covered by this prospectus. We will bear all expenses of registration incurred
in connection with this offering, but all selling and other expenses incurred by
the selling stockholder will be borne by the selling stockholder.
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SELLING STOCKHOLDER
On February 27, 2003, we issued 1,257,253 shares of our common stock to
Palisade Concentrated Equity Partnership, L.P. for $8,324,900.70 in a private
placement transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the
Securities Act pursuant to Rule 506 promulgated under the Securities Act.
Prior to the private placement, the selling stockholder did not hold
any of our shares or have any other relationship with us. No officer or director
of the selling stockholder also serves as an officer or director of Monmouth or
any predecessor or affiliate of ours. In connection with the investment by the
selling stockholder in us, we agreed to allow a representative of the selling
stockholder to attend, subject to certain limitations, all meetings of our board
of directors and all committees of our board of directors, in a non-voting,
observer capacity. In addition, that representative will be provided a copy of
all materials delivered to the members of our board of directors.
The following table lists information with respect to the selling
stockholder's ownership of shares of our common stock. This information is based
on information provided by or on behalf of the selling stockholder. To our
knowledge, the selling stockholder has sole voting and investment power over the
shares owned.
Shares Beneficially Owned Shares Beneficially Owned
Prior to the Offering After the Offering
----------------------------- Number of Shares -------------------------
Being
Name Number Percent Offered Number Percent
---- ------ ------- -------------- ------ -------
Palisade Concentrated
Equity Partnership,
L.P. 1,257,253 9.6% 1,257,253 -0- -0-
12
DESCRIPTION OF COMMON STOCK
The following description is only a summary of certain terms and
provisions of our common stock. You should refer to our charter and bylaws for a
complete description.
General. Our authorized capital stock consists of 25,000,000 shares,
initially classified as 20,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share, and 5,000,000 shares of excess stock, par value $0.01 per share. The
excess stock is designed to protect our status as a REIT under the Internal
Revenue Code. See "- REIT Related Restrictions."
Under Maryland General Corporation Law ("MGCL") and our charter, our
board of directors has the power, without action by the stockholders, to
increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of stock or the number of
shares of stock of any class that we have the authority to issue. Also, our
board of directors has the power, without any action by the stockholders, to
classify or reclassify any unissued capital stock including classification into
a class or classes of preferred stock, preference stock, special stock or other
stock and to divide or classify shares into one or more series of such class
approval. Our board of directors may exercise its power to increase the number
of authorized shares or to reclassify any unissued shares in connection with a
merger or acquisition, a future underwritten public offering or private
placement or a potential hostile takeover. As a holder of our common stock, you
will have no preferences or sinking fund or preemptive rights to subscribe for
any of our securities.
As of April 30, 2003, 14,533,511 shares of common stock were issued and
outstanding and no shares of excess stock were issued or outstanding. Our
outstanding shares of common stock are currently listed on the Nasdaq Stock
Market under the symbol "MNRTA". We intend to apply the Nasdaq Stock Market to
list any additional shares of common stock offered pursuant to any prospectus
supplement, and we anticipate that such shares will be so listed.
Voting Rights. As a holder of common stock, you will have one vote per
share on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election
of directors. There is no cumulative voting in the election of directors, which
means that the holders of a plurality of the outstanding shares of common stock
can elect all of the directors then standing for election and the holders of the
remaining shares of common stock, if any, will not be able to elect any
directors. Holder of excess stock will not have any voting rights.
Classified Board of Directors. Our charter provides that the members of
our board of directors are divided, as evenly as possible, into three classes,
with approximately one-third of the directors elected by the stockholders
annually. Each director is to serve for a three year term or until his or her
successor is duly elected and has qualified. Consequently, members of our board
of directors will serve staggered three-year terms.
Distributions. Subject to any preferential rights granted to any class
of capital stock, as a holder of our common stock, you will be
entitled to receive dividends or other distributions as may be authorized from
time to time by our board of directors and declared by us out of funds legally
available for dividends or other distributions to stockholders. We currently pay
regular quarterly distributions on our common stock. In the event of our
liquidation, after payment of any preferential amounts to any class of capital
stock which may be outstanding and after
13
payment of, or adequate provision for, all of our known debts and liabilities,
holders of common stock and, subject to the provisions of our charter, excess
stock will be entitled to share ratably in all assets that we may legally
distribute to our stockholders.
REIT Related Restrictions. To qualify as a REIT under the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, we must satisfy a number of statutory requirements,
including a requirement that no more than 50% in value of our outstanding shares
of stock may be owned, actually or constructively, by five or fewer individuals
(as defined by the Code to include certain entities) during the last half of a
taxable year (other than the first taxable year of REIT status). In addition, if
we, or an actual or constructive owner of 10% or more of us, actually or
constructively owns 10% or more of a tenant of ours (or a tenant of any
partnership in which we are a partner), the rent we receive (either directly or
through any such partnership) from such tenant will not be qualifying income for
purposes of the REIT gross income tests of the Code. Our capital stock must also
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.
Because we intend to qualify as a REIT under the Code, our charter
contains limitations designed to protect our status as a REIT. Under our
charter, any person who acquires or attempts to acquire shares of our common
stock in violation of the ownership limitations and transfer restrictions must
give written notice to us. In addition, every stockholder of more than 5% of the
number or value of our outstanding common stock must give written notice to us
of the number of shares of common stock beneficially or constructively owned.
Under our charter, if a transfer of our capital stock or a change in our capital
structure would result in (i) any person directly or indirectly acquiring
beneficial ownership of more than 9.8% of our capital stock; (ii) our
outstanding capital stock being constructively or beneficially owned by fewer
than 100 persons; or (iii) us being "closely held" within the meaning of Section
856 of the Code or us otherwise failing to qualify as a REIT under the Code,
then: (a) our board of directors may take any action it deems advisable to
refuse to give effect to, or to prevent, such transfer; (b) any proposed
transfer will be void ab initio and will not be recognized by us; (c) we will
have the right to redeem the shares proposed to be transferred at a price equal
to the lesser of the price per share paid in the transaction which created the
violation and the last reported sales price on the Nasdaq Stock Market on the
trading date immediately prior to the date we give notice of redemption; and (d)
the shares proposed to be transferred will be automatically converted into and
exchanged for shares of a separate class of stock, excess stock, having no
voting rights. Holder of excess stock do have certain rights in the event of any
liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the corporation. Our charter further
proves that the excess stock will be held by a trustee appointed by us in trust
(i) for the person or persons to whom the shares are ultimately transferred,
until such time as the shares are re-transferred to a person or persons in whose
hands the shares would not be excess stock and certain price-related
restrictions are satisfied, and (ii) with respect to dividend rights (and rights
to funds in excess of the amounts paid to the holder), for the benefit of a
charitable beneficiary appointed by us. Our board of directors may, in its sole
and absolute discretion, exempt certain persons from the ownership limitations
contained in our charter if ownership of shares of common stock by such persons
would not disqualify us as a REIT under the Code.
Certain Anti-Takeover Effects. Our charter and bylaws also contain
provisions that may be deemed to have anti-takeover effects. For example, our
charter (i) does not allow for
14
cumulative voting by stockholders; (ii) provides for a classified board of
directors, and (iii) contains limitations on the amount of our securities that
any person can own. In addition, our bylaws contain provisions that (i) give our
board of directors the exclusive power to fill vacancies on the board and
provide that any director so appointed will serve for the remaining term of that
directorship; (ii) give our board the exclusive power to determine the numbers
of directors; (iii) require advance notice of any stockholder nominations for
director and proposals of business by stockholders to be conducted at the
meeting; (iv) limit stockholders' ability to call a special meeting; (v) give
our board of directors the exclusive power to amend our bylaws; (vi) require
approval of two-thirds of the shares to remove directors for cause; (vii)
require our board of directors to have at least three independent directors as
defined by Section 3-802 of the MGCL which allows us to opt into certain
statutory anti-takeover provisions; and (viii) specifically opt-into the
business combination provisions of the MGCL (with the exception that such
provisions do not apply to transactions with United Mobile Homes, Inc. or
Monmouth Capital Corporation, which are affiliates of us). Additionally, our
charter provides that our board of directors may authorize additional shares of
capital stock and may classify or reclassify only unissued capital stock,
including classification into shares of preference stock, without stockholder
action. Such stock could be issued in such a way as to have anti-takeover
effects.
15
MATERIAL UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
Introductory Notes
The following is a description of the material Federal income tax
considerations to a holder of our common stock. An applicable prospectus
supplement will contain information about additional Federal income tax
considerations, if any, relating to particular offerings of our common stock.
The following discussion is not exhaustive of all possible tax considerations
and does not provide a detailed discussion of any state, local or foreign tax
considerations, nor does it discuss all of the aspects of Federal income
taxation that may be relevant to a prospective stockholder in light of his or
her particular circumstances or to stockholders (including insurance companies,
tax-exempt entities, financial institutions or broker-dealers, foreign
corporations, and persons who are not citizens or residents of the United
States) who are subject to special treatment under the Federal income tax laws.
Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP has provided an opinion to the
effect that this discussion, to the extent that it contains descriptions of
applicable Federal income tax law, is correct in all material respects and
fairly summarizes the Federal income tax laws referred to herein. This opinion
is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is
a part. This opinion, however, does not purport to address the actual tax
consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common stock to
any particular holder. The opinion, and the information in this section, 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, and court decisions. The reference to
Internal Revenue Service interpretations and practices includes Internal Revenue
Service practices and policies as endorsed in private letter rulings, which are
not binding on the Internal Revenue Service except with respect to the taxpayer
that receives the ruling. In each case, these sources are relied upon as they
exist on the date of this prospectus. No assurance can be given that future
legislation, regulations, administrative interpretations and court decisions
will not significantly change current law, or adversely affect existing
interpretations of existing law, on which the opinion and the information in
this section are based. Any change of this kind could apply retroactively to
transactions preceding the date of the change. Moreover, opinions of counsel
merely represent counsel's best judgment with respect to the probable outcome on
the merits and are not binding on the Internal Revenue Service or the courts.
Accordingly, even if there is no change in applicable law, no assurance can be
provided that such opinion, or the statements made in the following discussion,
will not be challenged by the Internal Revenue Service or will be sustained by a
court if so challenged.
Each prospective purchaser is advised to consult the applicable
prospectus supplement, as well as his or her own tax advisor, regarding the
specific tax consequences to him or her of the acquisition, ownership and sale
of securities of an entity electing to be taxed as a real estate investment
trust, including the federal, state, local, foreign, and other tax consequences
of such acquisition, ownership, sale, and election and of potential changes in
applicable tax laws.
16
Taxation of Us as a REIT
General. We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856
through 859 of the Code, commencing with our taxable year which ended September
30, 1968. Our qualification and taxation as a REIT depends upon our ability to
meet on a continuing basis, through actual annual operating results,
distribution levels and diversity of stock ownership, the various qualification
tests and organizational requirements imposed under the Code, as discussed
below. We believe that we are organized and have operated in such a manner as to
qualify under the Code for taxation as a REIT since our inception, and we intend
to continue to operate in such a manner. No assurances, however, can be given
that we will operate in a manner so as to qualify or remain qualified as a REIT.
See "Failure to Qualify" below.
The following is a general summary of the material Code provisions that
govern the Federal income tax treatment of a REIT and its stockholders. These
provisions of the Code are highly technical and complex. This summary is
qualified in its entirety by the applicable Code provisions, the regulations
promulgated thereunder ("Treasury Regulations"), and administrative and judicial
interpretations thereof.
Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP has provided to us an opinion to the
effect that we have been organized and have operated in conformity with the
requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT, effective for each of our
taxable years ended September 30, 2000 through September 30, 2002, and our
current and proposed organization and method of operation will enable us to
continue to meet the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT for
taxable year 2003 and thereafter. This opinion is filed as an exhibit to the
registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. It must be emphasized
that this opinion is conditioned upon certain assumptions and representations
made by us to Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP as to factual matters relating
to our organization and operation. In addition, this opinion is based upon our
factual representations concerning our business and properties as described in
the reports filed by us under the federal securities laws.
Qualification and taxation as a REIT depends upon our ability to meet
on a continuing basis, through actual annual operating results, the various
requirements under the Code described in this prospectus with regard to, among
other things, the sources of our gross income, the composition of our assets,
our distribution levels, and our diversity of stock ownership. Blackwell Sanders
Peper Martin LLP will not review our operating results on an ongoing basis.
While we intend to operate so that we qualify as a REIT, given the highly
complex nature of the rules governing REITs, the ongoing importance of factual
determinations, and the possibility of future changes in our circumstances, no
assurance can be given that we satisfy all of the tests for REIT qualification
or will continue to do so.
If we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we generally will not be subject
to Federal corporate income taxes on net income that we currently distribute to
stockholders. This treatment substantially eliminates the "double taxation" (at
the corporate and stockholder levels) that generally results from investment in
a corporation.
Notwithstanding our REIT election, however, we will be subject to
Federal income tax in the following circumstances. First, we will be taxed at
regular corporate rates on any
17
undistributed taxable income, including undistributed net capital gains,
provided, however, that properly designated undistributed capital gains will
effectively avoid taxation at the shareholder level. Second, under certain
circumstances, we may be subject to the "alternative minimum tax" on any items
of tax preference and alternative minimum tax adjustments. Third, if we have (i)
net income from the sale or other disposition of "foreclosure property" (which
is, in general, property acquired by foreclosure or otherwise on default of a
loan secured by the property) that is held primarily for sale to customers in
the ordinary course of business or (ii) other nonqualifying income from
foreclosure property, we will be subject to tax at the highest corporate rate on
such income. Fourth, if we have 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 on prohibited
transactions. Fifth, if we should fail to satisfy the 75% gross income test or
the 95% gross income test (as discussed below), and have nonetheless maintained
our qualification as a REIT because certain other requirements have been met, we
will be subject to a 100% tax equal to the gross income attributable to the
greater of either (i) the amount by which 75% of our gross income exceeds the
amount qualifying under the 75% test for the taxable year or (ii) the amount by
which 90% of our gross income exceeds the amount of our income qualifying under
the 95% test for the taxable year, multiplied in either case by a fraction
intended to reflect our profitability. Sixth, if we should fail to distribute
during each calendar year at least the sum of (i) 85% of our REIT ordinary
income for such year; (ii) 95% of our REIT capital gain net income for such year
(for this purpose such term includes capital gains which we elect to retain but
which we report as distributed to our stockholders. See "Annual Distribution
Requirements" below); and (iii) any undistributed taxable income from prior
years, we would be subject to a 4% excise tax on the excess of such required
distribution over the amounts actually distributed. Seventh, if we acquire any
asset from a C corporation (i.e., a corporation generally subject to full
corporate level tax) in a transaction in which the basis of the asset in our
hands is determined by reference to the basis of the asset (or any other
property) in the hands of the C corporation, and we recognize gain on the
disposition of such asset during the 10-year period beginning on the date on
which such asset was acquired by us, then, to the extent of such property's
built-in gain (the excess of the fair market value of such property at the time
of acquisition by us over the adjusted basis of such property at such time),
such gain will be subject to tax at the highest regular corporate rate
applicable assuming that we made or would make an election pursuant to Notice
88-19 or Treasury Regulations that were promulgated in 2000. Eighth, we would be
subject to a 100% penalty tax on amounts received (or on certain expenses
deducted by a taxable REIT subsidiary) if arrangements among us, our tenants and
a taxable REIT subsidiary were not comparable to similar arrangements among
unrelated parties.
Requirements for Qualification
The Code defines a REIT as a corporation, trust or association (i)
which is managed by one or more trustees or directors; (ii) the beneficial
ownership of which is evidenced by transferable shares or by transferable
certificates of beneficial interest; (iii) which would be taxable as a domestic
corporation but for Code Sections 856 through 859; (iv) which is neither a
financial institution nor an insurance company subject to certain provisions of
the Code; (v) the beneficial ownership of which is held by 100 or more persons;
(vi) of which not more than 50% in value of the outstanding capital stock is
owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals (as defined in the
Code to include certain entities) during the last half of each taxable
18
year after applying certain attribution rules; (vii) that makes an election to
be treated as a REIT for the current taxable year or has made an election for a
previous taxable year which has not been revoked and (viii) which meets certain
other tests, described below, regarding the nature of its income and assets. The
Code provides that conditions (i) through (iv), inclusive, must be met during
the entire taxable year and that condition (v) must be met 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. Condition (vi) must be met during the last half of
each taxable year. For purposes of determining stock ownership under condition
(vi), a supplemental unemployment compensation benefits plan, a private
foundation or a portion of a trust permanently set aside or used exclusively for
charitable purposes generally is considered an individual. However, a trust that
is a qualified trust under Code Section 401(a) generally is not considered an
individual, and beneficiaries of a qualified trust are treated as holding shares
of a REIT in proportion to their actuarial interests in the trust for purposes
of condition (vi). Conditions (v) and (vi) do not apply until after the first
taxable year for which an election is made to be taxed as a REIT. We have issued
sufficient Common Stock with sufficient diversity of ownership to allow us to
satisfy requirements (v) and (vi). In addition, our Charter contains
restrictions regarding the transfer of our stock intended to assist in
continuing to satisfy the stock ownership requirements described in (v) and (vi)
above. See "Description of Common Stock - REIT Related Restrictions." These
restrictions, however, may not ensure that we will be able to satisfy these
stock ownership requirements. If we fail to satisfy these stock ownership
requirements, we will fail to qualify as a REIT.
In addition, if a corporation elected to be a REIT subsequent to
October 4, 1976, it must have as its taxable year, the calendar year. We elected
to be classified as a REIT prior to that date. Consequently, our taxable year
ends September 30.
To qualify as a REIT, we cannot have at the end of any taxable year any
undistributed earnings and profits that are attributable to a non-REIT taxable
year. We believe that we have complied with this requirement.
For our tax years beginning prior to January 1, 1998, pursuant to
applicable Treasury Regulations, to be taxed as a REIT, we were required to
maintain certain records and request on an annual basis certain information from
our stockholders designed to disclose the actual ownership of our outstanding
shares. We have complied with such requirements. For our tax years beginning
January 1, 1998 and after, these records and informational requirements are no
longer a condition to REIT qualification. Instead, a monetary penalty will be
imposed for failure to comply with these requirements. If we comply with these
regulatory rules, and we do not know, or exercising reasonable diligence would
not have known, whether we failed to meet requirement (vi) above, we will be
treated as having met the requirement.
Qualified REIT Subsidiaries
If a REIT owns a corporate subsidiary that is a "qualified REIT
subsidiary," the separate existence of that subsidiary will be disregarded for
federal income tax purposes. Generally, a qualified REIT subsidiary is a
corporation, other than a taxable REIT subsidiary, all of the capital stock of
which is owned by the REIT. All assets, liabilities and items of income,
deduction and credit of the qualified REIT subsidiary will be treated as assets,
liabilities and
19
items of income, deduction and credit of the REIT itself. A qualified REIT
subsidiary of ours will not be subject to federal corporate income taxation,
although it may be subject to state and local taxation in some states.
Taxable REIT Subsidiaries
A "taxable REIT subsidiary" is an entity taxable as a corporation in
which we own stock and that elects with us to be treated as a taxable REIT
subsidiary under Section 856(l) of the Code. In addition, if one of our taxable
REIT subsidiaries owns, directly or indirectly, securities representing more
than 35% of the vote or value of a subsidiary corporation, that subsidiary will
also be treated as a taxable REIT subsidiary of ours. A taxable REIT subsidiary
is subject to federal income tax, and state and local income tax where
applicable, as a regular "C" corporation.
Generally, a taxable REIT subsidiary can perform impermissible tenant
services without causing us 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 us. In addition, we will be
obligated to pay a 100% penalty tax on some payments that we receive or on
certain expenses deducted by the taxable REIT subsidiary if the economic
arrangements among us, our tenants and the taxable REIT subsidiary are not
comparable to similar arrangements among unrelated parties. We currently do not
have any taxable REIT subsidiaries.
Income Tests
In order for us to maintain qualification as a REIT, certain separate
percentage tests relating to the source of our gross income must be satisfied
annually. First, at least 75% of our gross income (excluding gross income from
prohibited transactions) for each taxable year generally must be derived
directly or indirectly from investments relating to real property or mortgages
on real property (including "rents from real property," gain, and, in certain
circumstances, interest) or from certain types of temporary investments. Second,
at least 95% of our gross income (excluding gross income from prohibited
transactions) for each taxable year must be derived from such real property
investments described above, dividends, interest and gain from the sale or
disposition of stock or securities, some payments under hedging instruments, or
from any combination of the foregoing.
Rents received by us will qualify as "rents from real property" in
satisfying the above gross income tests 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, amounts received or accrued generally will not
be excluded from "rents from real property" solely by reason of being based on a
fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales.
Second, rents received from a tenant will not qualify as "rents from
real property" if we, or a direct or indirect owner of 10% or more of our stock,
actually or constructively owns 10% or more of such tenant (a "Related Party
Tenant"). We may, however, lease our properties to a
20
taxable REIT subsidiary and rents received from that subsidiary will not be
disqualified from being "rents from real property" by reason of our ownership
interest in the subsidiary if at least 90% of the property in question is leased
to unrelated tenants and the rent paid by the taxable REIT subsidiary is
substantially comparable to the rent paid by the unrelated tenants for
comparable space.
Third, if rent attributable to personal property that is 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." This 15% test is based
on relative fair market value of the real and personal property.
Generally, for rents to qualify as "rents from real property" for the
purposes of the gross income tests, we are only allowed to provide services that
are both "usually or customarily rendered" in connection with the rental of real
property and not otherwise considered "rendered to the occupant." Income
received from any other service will be treated as "impermissible tenant service
income" unless the service is provided through an independent contractor that
bears the expenses of providing the services and from whom we derive no revenue
or through a taxable REIT subsidiary, subject to specified limitations. The
amount of impermissible tenant service income we receive is deemed to be the
greater of the amount actually received by us or 150% of our direct cost of
providing the service. If the impermissible tenant service income exceeds 1% of
our total income from a property, then all of the income from that property will
fail to qualify as rents from real property. If the total amount of
impermissible tenant service income from a property does not exceed 1% of our
total income from that property, the income will not cause the rent paid by
tenants of that property to fail to qualify as rents from real property, but the
impermissible tenant service income itself will not qualify as rents from real
property.
If we fail to satisfy one or both of the 75% or 95% gross income tests
for any taxable year, we may nevertheless qualify as a REIT for such year if we
are entitled to relief under certain provisions of the Code. These relief
provisions generally will be available if our failure to meet such tests was due
to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, if we attach a schedule of
the sources of our income to our federal income tax return for such years, and
if any incorrect information on the schedules was not due to fraud with intent
to evade tax. It is not possible, however, to state whether in all circumstances
we would be entitled to the benefit of these relief provisions. As discussed
above in "General," even if these relief provisions were to apply, a tax would
be imposed with respect to the excess net income.
Asset Tests
At the close of each quarter of our taxable year, we must satisfy six
tests relating to the nature of our assets.
1. At least 75% of the value of our total assets must be represented
by "real estate assets," cash, cash items and government
securities. Our real estate assets include, for this purpose, our
allocable share of real estate assets held by the partnerships in
which we own an interest, and the non-corporate subsidiaries of
21
these partnerships, as well as stock or debt instruments held for
less than one year purchased with the proceeds of an offering of
shares or long term debt.
2. Not more than 25% of our total assets may be represented by
securities, other than those in the 75% asset class.
3. Except for certain investments in REITs, qualified REIT
subsidiaries, and taxable REIT subsidiaries, the value of any one
issuer's securities owned by us may not exceed 5% of the value of
our total assets.
4. Except for certain investments in REITs, qualified REIT
subsidiaries and taxable REIT subsidiaries, we may not own more
than 10% of any one issuer's outstanding voting securities.
5. Except for certain investments in REITs, qualified REIT
subsidiaries and taxable REIT subsidiaries, we may not own more
than 10% of the total value of the outstanding securities of any
one issuer, other than securities that qualify as "straight debt"
under the Internal Revenue Code.
6. Not more than 20% of our total assets may be represented by the
securities of one or more taxable REIT subsidiaries.
For purposes of these asset tests, any shares of qualified REIT
subsidiaries are not taken into account, and any assets owned by the qualified
REIT subsidiary are treated as owned directly by the REIT.
Securities, for purposes of the assets tests, may include debt we hold.
However, debt we hold in an issuer will not be taken into account for purposes
of the 10% value test if the debt securities meet the "straight debt" safe
harbor and either (1) the issuer is an individual, (2) the only securities of
the issuer that we hold are straight debt or (3) if the issuer is a partnership,
we hold at least a 20 percent profits interest in the partnership. Debt will
meet the "straight debt" safe harbor if the debt is a written unconditional
promise to pay on demand or on a specified date a sum certain in money (1) which
is not convertible, directly or indirectly, into stock and (2) the interest rate
(or the interest payment dates) of which is not contingent on the profits, the
borrower's discretion or similar factors.
With respect to each issuer in which we currently own an interest that
does not qualify as a REIT, a qualified REIT subsidiary or a taxable REIT
subsidiary, we believe that our pro rata share of the value of the securities,
including unsecured debt, of any such issuer does not exceed 5% of the total
value of our assets and that we comply with the 10% voting securities limitation
and 10% value limitation (taking into account the "straight debt" exceptions
with respect to certain issuers). With respect to our compliance with each of
these asset tests, however, we cannot provide any assurance that the Internal
Revenue Service might not disagree with our determinations.
After initially meeting the asset tests after the close of any quarter,
we will not lose our status as a REIT if we fail to satisfy the 25%, 20% or 5%
asset tests or the 10% value limitation at the end of a later quarter solely by
reason of changes in the relative values of our assets. If the
22
failure to satisfy the 25%, 20%, or 5% asset tests or the 10% value limitation
results from an increase in the value of our assets after the acquisition of
securities or other property during a quarter, the failure can be cured by a
disposition of sufficient non-qualifying assets within 30 days after the close
of that quarter. We have maintained and intend to continue to maintain adequate
records of the value of our assets to ensure compliance with the asset tests and
to take any available actions within 30 days after the close of any quarter as
may be required to cure any noncompliance with the 25%, 20%, or 5% asset tests
or the 10% value limitation. We cannot ensure that these steps always will be
successful. If we were to fail to cure the noncompliance with the asset tests
within this 30 day period, we could fail to qualify as a REIT.
Annual Distribution Requirements
We, in order to qualify as a REIT, are required to distribute dividends
(other than capital gain dividends) to our stockholders in an amount at least
equal to (i) the sum of (a) 90% of our "REIT taxable income" (computed without
regard to the dividends paid deduction and our net capital gain) and (b) 90% of
the net income (after tax), if any, from foreclosure property, minus (ii) the
sum of certain items of noncash income. Such distributions generally must be
paid in the taxable year to which they relate. Dividends may be paid in the
following year in two circumstances. First, dividends may be declared in the
following year if the dividends are declared before we timely file our tax
return for the year and paid within 12 months of the end of the tax year but
before the first regular dividend payment made after such declaration. Second,
if we declare a dividend in October, November or December of any year with a
record date in one of these months and pay the dividend on or before January 31
of the following year, we will be treated as having paid the dividend on
December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared. To the extent that
we do not distribute all of our net capital gain or distribute at least 90%, but
less than 100%, of our "REIT taxable income," as adjusted, we will be subject to
tax on the nondistributed amount at regular capital gains and ordinary corporate
tax rates. Furthermore, if we should fail to distribute during each calendar
year at least the sum of (i) 85% of our REIT ordinary income for such year; (ii)
95% of our REIT capital gain income for such year; and (iii) any undistributed
taxable income from prior periods, we will be subject to a 4% excise tax on the
excess of such required distribution over the amounts actually distributed.
We may elect to retain and pay tax on net long-term capital gains and
require our stockholders to include their proportionate share of such
undistributed net capital gains in their income. If we make such election,
stockholders would receive a tax credit attributable to their share of the
capital gains tax paid by us, and would receive an increase in the basis of
their shares in us in an amount equal to the stockholder's share of the
undistributed net long-term capital gain reduced by the amount of the credit.
Further, any undistributed net long-term capital gains that are included in the
income of our stockholders pursuant to this rule will be treated as distributed
for purposes of the 4% excise tax.
We have made and intend to continue to make timely distributions
sufficient to satisfy the annual distribution requirements. It is possible,
however, that we, from time to time, may not have sufficient cash or liquid
assets to meet the distribution requirements due to timing differences between
the actual receipt of income and actual payment of deductible expenses and the
inclusion of such income and deduction of such expenses in arriving at our
taxable income, or if the amount of nondeductible expenses such as principal
amortization or capital expenditures
23
exceeds the amount of noncash deductions. In the event that such timing
differences occur, in order to meet the distribution requirements, we may
arrange for short-term, or possibly long-term, borrowing to permit the payment
of required dividends. If the amount of nondeductible expenses exceeds noncash
deductions, we may refinance our indebtedness to reduce principal payments and
may borrow funds for capital expenditures.
Under certain circumstances, we may be able to rectify a failure to
meet the distribution requirement for a year by paying "deficiency dividends" to
stockholders in a later year that may be included in our deduction for dividends
paid for the earlier year. Thus, we may avoid being taxed on amounts distributed
as deficiency dividends; however, we will be required to pay interest to the
Internal Revenue Service based upon the amount of any deduction taken for
deficiency dividends.
Failure to Qualify
If we fail to qualify for taxation as a REIT in any taxable year and no
relief provisions apply, we will be subject to tax (including any applicable
alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate rates.
Distributions to stockholders in any year in which we fail to qualify will not
be deductible by us, nor will such distributions be required to be made. In such
event, to the extent of current and accumulated earnings and profits, all
distributions to stockholders will be taxable as ordinary income, and, subject
to certain limitations in the Code, corporate distributees may be eligible for
the dividends received deduction. Unless entitled to relief under specific
statutory provisions, we will also 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 we would be entitled to
such statutory relief.
Taxation of Stockholders
Taxation of Taxable U.S. Stockholders. As used in the remainder of
this discussion, the term "U.S. Stockholder" means a beneficial owner of our
common stock that is for United States federal income tax purposes:
1. a citizen or resident, as defined in Section 7701(b) of the Code,
of the United States;
2. a corporation or partnership, or other entity treated as a
corporation or partnership for federal income tax purposes,
created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or
any state or the District of Columbia;
3. an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal
income taxation regardless of its source; or
4. in general, a trust subject to the primary supervision of a
United States court and the control of one or more United States
persons.
Generally, in the case of a partnership that holds our common stock,
any partner that would be a U.S. Stockholder if it held the common stock
directly is also a U.S. Stockholder. As long as we qualify as a REIT,
distributions made to our taxable U.S. Stockholders out of current
24
or accumulated earnings and profits (and not designated as capital gain
dividends or retained capital gains) will be taken into account by them as
ordinary income, and corporate stockholders will not be eligible for the
dividends received deduction as to such amounts. Distributions in excess of
current and accumulated earnings and profits will not be taxable to a
stockholder to the extent that they do not exceed the adjusted basis of such
stockholder's common stock, but rather will reduce the adjusted basis of such
shares as a return of capital. To the extent that such distributions exceed the
adjusted basis of a stockholder's common stock, they will be included in income
as long-term capital gain (or short-term capital gain if the shares have been
held for one year or less), assuming the shares are a capital asset in the hands
of the stockholder. In addition, any dividend declared by us in October,
November or December of any year payable to a stockholder of record on a
specific date in any such month shall be treated as both paid by us and received
by the stockholder on December 31 of such year, provided that the dividend is
actually paid by us during January of the following calendar year. For purposes
of determining what portion of a distribution is attributable to current or
accumulated earnings and profits, earnings and profits will first be allocated
to distributions made to holders of the shares of preferred stock. Stockholders
may not include in their individual income tax returns any net operating losses
or capital losses of ours.
In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of
shares by a stockholder who is not a dealer in securities will be treated as a
long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than one
year, otherwise as short-term capital gain or loss. However, any loss upon a
sale or exchange of common stock by a stockholder who has held such shares for
six months or less (after applying certain holding period rules) generally will
be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of distributions from us
required to be treated by such stockholder as long-term capital gain.
Distributions that we properly designate as capital gain dividends will
be taxable to stockholders as gains (to the extent that they do not exceed our
actual net capital gain for the taxable year) from the sale or disposition of a
capital asset held for greater than one year. If we designate any portion of a
dividend as a capital gain dividend, a U.S. Stockholder will receive an Internal
Revenue Service Form 1099-DIV indicating the amount that will be taxable to the
stockholder as capital gain. However, stockholders that are corporations may be
required to treat up to 20% of certain capital gain dividends as ordinary
income. A portion of capital gain dividends received by noncorporate taxpayers
may be subject to tax at a 25% rate to the extent attributable to certain gains
realized on the sale of real property. In addition, noncorporate taxpayers are
generally taxed at a maximum rate of 20% on net long-term capital gain
(generally, the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital
loss) attributable to gains realized on the sale of property held for greater
that one year.
Distributions we make and gain arising from the sale or exchange by a
stockholder of shares of our stock will not be treated as passive activity
income, and, as a result, stockholders generally will not be able to apply any
"passive losses" against such income or gain. Distributions we make (to the
extent they do not constitute a return of capital) generally will be treated as
investment income for purposes of computing the investment interest limitation.
Gain arising from the sale or other disposition of our stock (or distributions
treated as such) will not be treated as investment income under certain
circumstances.
25
Upon any taxable sale or other disposition of our common stock, a U.S.
Stockholder will recognize gain or loss for federal income tax purposes on the
disposition of our stock in an amount equal to the difference between
o the amount of cash and the fair market value of any property
received on such disposition; and
o the U.S. Stockholder's adjusted basis in such stock for tax
purposes.
Gain or loss will be capital gain or loss if the common stock has been
held by the U.S. Stockholder as a capital asset. The applicable tax rate will
depend on the stockholder's holding period in the asset (generally, if an asset
has been held for more than one year it will produce long-term capital gain) and
the stockholder's tax bracket. A U.S. Stockholder who is an individual or an
estate or trust and who has long-term capital gain or loss will be subject to a
maximum capital gain rate of 20%. U.S. Stockholders that acquire, or are deemed
to acquire, stock after December 31, 2000 and who hold the stock for more than
five years and certain low income taxpayers may be eligible for a lower
long-term capital gains rate. However, to the extent that the capital gain
realized by a non-corporate stockholder on the sale of REIT stock corresponds to
the REIT's "unrecaptured Section 1250 gain," such gain would be subject to tax
at a rate of 25%. Stockholders are advised to consult with their own tax
advisors with respect to their capital gain tax liability.
Taxation of Tax-Exempt Stockholders. Provided that a tax-exempt
stockholder has not held our common stock as "debt financed property" within the
meaning of the Internal Revenue Code, the dividend income from us will not be
unrelated business taxable income, referred to as UBTI, to a tax-exempt
stockholder. Similarly, income from the sale of common stock will not constitute
UBTI unless the tax-exempt stockholder has held its stock as debt financed
property within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code or has used the common
stock in a trade or business. However, for a tax-exempt stockholder that is a
social club, voluntary employee benefit association, supplemental unemployment
benefit trust, or qualified group legal services plan exempt from federal income
taxation under Internal Revenue Code Sections 501(c)(7), (c)(9), (c)(17) and
(c)(20), respectively, or a single parent title-holding corporation exempt under
Section 501(c)(2) the income of which is payable to any of the aforementioned
tax-exempt organizations, income from an investment in us will constitute UBTI
unless the organization properly sets aside or reserves such amounts for
purposes specified in the Internal Revenue Code. These tax exempt stockholders
should consult their own tax advisors concerning these "set aside" and reserve
requirements.
A "qualified trust" (defined to be any trust described in Code Section
401(a) and exempt from tax under Code Section 501(a)) that holds more than 10%
of the value of the shares of a REIT may be required, under certain
circumstances, to treat a portion of distributions from the REIT as UBTI. This
requirement will apply for a taxable year only if (i) the REIT satisfies the
requirement that not more than 50% of the value of its shares be held by five or
fewer individuals (the "five or fewer requirement") only by relying on a special
"look-through" rule under which shares held by qualified trust stockholders are
treated as held by the beneficiaries of such trusts in proportion to their
actuarial interests therein; and (ii) the REIT is "predominantly held" by
qualified trusts. A REIT is "predominantly held" by qualified trusts if either
(i) a single qualified
26
trust holds more than 25% of the value of the REIT shares, or (ii) one or more
qualified trusts, each owning more than 10% of the value of the REIT shares,
hold in the aggregate more than 50% of the value of the REIT shares. If the
foregoing requirements are met, the percentage of any REIT dividend treated as
UBTI to a qualified trust that owns more than 10% of the value of the REIT
shares is equal to the ratio of (i) the UBTI earned by the REIT (computed as if
the REIT were a qualified trust and therefore subject to tax on its UBTI) to
(ii) the total gross income (less certain associated expenses) of the REIT for
the year in which the dividends are paid. A de minimis exception applies where
the ratio set forth in the preceding sentence is less than 5% for any year.
The provisions requiring qualified trusts to treat a portion of REIT
distributions as UBTI will not apply if the REIT is able to satisfy the five or
fewer requirement without relying on the "look-through" rule. The restrictions
on ownership of stock in our charter should prevent application of the foregoing
provisions to qualified trusts purchasing our stock, absent a waiver of the
restrictions by the Board of Directors.
Taxation of Non-U.S. Stockholders. The rules governing U.S. Federal
income taxation of nonresident alien individuals, foreign corporations, foreign
partnerships and other foreign stockholders (collectively, "Non-U.S.
Stockholders") are complex, and no attempt will be made herein to provide more
than a limited summary of such rules. The discussion does not consider any
specific facts or circumstances that may apply to a particular Non-U.S.
Stockholder. Prospective Non-U.S. Stockholders should consult with their own tax
advisors to determine the impact of U.S. Federal, state and local income tax
laws with regard to an investment in our common stock, including any reporting
requirements.
Distributions that are not attributable to gain from sales or exchanges
by us of U.S. real property interests and not designated by us as capital gain
dividends or retained capital gains will be treated as dividends of ordinary
income to the extent that they are made out of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits. Such distributions ordinarily will be subject to a
withholding tax equal to 30% of the gross amount of the distribution unless an
applicable tax treaty reduces such rate. However, if income from the investment
in our stock is treated as effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Stockholder's
conduct of a U.S. trade or business, the Non-U.S. Stockholder generally will be
subject to a tax at graduated rates in the same manner as U.S. stockholders are
taxed with respect to such dividends (and may also be subject to a branch
profits tax of up to 30% if the stockholder is a foreign corporation). We expect
to withhold U.S. income tax at the rate of 30% on the gross amount of any
dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Stockholder that are not designated as capital gain
dividends, unless (i) a lower treaty rate applies and the Non-U.S. Stockholder
files an IRS Form W-8BEN evidencing eligibility for that reduced rate is filed
with us or (ii) the Non-U.S. Stockholder files an IRS Form W-8ECI with us
claiming that the distribution is income treated as effectively connected to a
U.S. trade or business.
Distributions in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and
profits will not be taxable to a stockholder to the extent that they do not
exceed the adjusted basis of the stockholder's stock, but rather will reduce the
adjusted basis of such shares. To the extent that such distributions exceed the
adjusted basis of a Non-U.S. Stockholder's shares, they will give rise to tax
liability if the Non-U.S. Stockholder would otherwise be subject to tax on any
gain from the sale or disposition of his or her stock as described below. We may
be required to
27
withhold U.S. income tax at the rate of at least 10% on distributions to
Non-U.S. Stockholders that are not paid out of current or accumulated earnings
and profits unless the Non-U.S. Stockholders provide us with withholding
certificates evidencing their exemption from withholding tax. If it cannot be
determined at the time that such a distribution is made whether or not such
distribution will be in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits,
the distribution will be subject to withholding at the rate applicable to
dividends. However, the Non-U.S. Stockholder may seek a refund of such amounts
from the Service if it is subsequently determined that such distribution was, in
fact, in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits.
For any year in which we qualify as a REIT, distributions that are
attributable to gain from sales or exchanges by us of U.S. real property
interests will be taxed to a Non-U.S. Stockholder under the provisions of the
Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980 ("FIRPTA"). Under FIRPTA,
these distributions are taxed to a Non-U.S. Stockholder as if such gain were
effectively connected with a U.S. business. Thus, Non-U.S. Stockholders will be
taxed on such distributions at the normal capital gain rates applicable to U.S.
stockholders (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 corporate Non-U.S. Stockholder not entitled to treaty relief or
exemption. We are required by applicable Treasury Regulations to withhold 35% of
any distribution that could be designated by us as a capital gain dividend. This
amount is creditable against the Non-U.S. Stockholder's FIRPTA tax liability.
Gain recognized by a Non-U.S. Stockholder upon the sale or exchange of
our stock generally would not be subject to United States taxation unless:
o the investment in our stock is effectively connected with the
Non-U.S. Stockholder's U.S. trade or business, in which case the
Non-U.S. Stockholder will be subject to the same treatment as
domestic stockholders with respect to any gain;
o the Non-U.S. Stockholder is a non-resident alien individual who
is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the
taxable year and has a tax home in the United States, in which
case the non-resident alien individual will be subject to a 30%
tax on the individual's net capital gains for the taxable year;
or
o our stock constitutes a U.S. real property interest within the
meaning of FIRPTA, as described below.
Our common stock will not constitute a United States real property
interest if we are a domestically-controlled REIT. We will be a
domestically-controlled REIT if, at all times during a specified testing period,
less than 50% in value of our stock is held directly or indirectly by Non-U.S.
Stockholders.
We believe that, currently, we are a domestically controlled REIT and,
therefore, that the sale of our common stock would not be subject to taxation
under FIRPTA. Because our
28
common stock is publicly traded, however, we cannot guarantee that we are or will
continue to be a domestically-controlled REIT.
Even if we do not qualify as a domestically-controlled REIT at the time
a Non-U.S. Stockholder sells our common stock, gain arising from the sale still
would not be subject to FIRPTA tax if:
o the class or series of shares sold is considered regularly traded
under applicable Treasury regulations on an established
securities market, such as the NYSE; and
o the selling Non-U.S. Stockholder owned, actually or
constructively, 5% or less in value of the outstanding class or
series of stock being sold throughout the five-year period ending
on the date of the sale or exchange.
If gain on the sale or exchange of our common stock were subject to
taxation under FIRPTA, the Non-U.S. Stockholder would be subject to regular U.S.
income tax with respect to any gain in the same manner as a taxable U.S.
Stockholder, subject to any applicable alternative minimum tax and special
alternative minimum tax in the case of non-resident alien individuals.
State and Local Taxes. We and our stockholders may be subject to state
or local taxation in various state or local jurisdictions, including those in
which we or they transact business or reside (although U.S. Stockholders who are
individuals generally should not be required to file state income tax returns
outside of their state of residence with respect to our operations and
distributions). The state and local tax treatment of us and our stockholders may
not conform to the Federal income tax consequences discussed above.
Consequently, prospective stockholders should consult their own tax advisors
regarding the effect of state and local tax laws on an investment in our common
stock.
Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting
U.S. Holders. In general, information-reporting requirements will apply
to certain U.S. holders with regard to payments of dividends on our stock, OID,
interest, and payments of the proceeds of the sale of our common stock, unless
an exception applies.
The payor will be required to withhold tax on such payments at the rate
of 27% (scheduled to be reduced incrementally to 25% by 2006) if (i) the payee
fails to furnish a taxpayer identification number, or TIN, to the payor or to
establish an exemption from backup withholding, or (ii) the Internal Revenue
Service notifies the payor that the TIN furnished by the payor is incorrect.
In addition, a payor of dividends on our common stock will be required
to withhold tax at a rate of 27% (scheduled to be reduced incrementally to 25%
by 2006) if (i) there has been a notified payee under-reporting with respect to
interest, dividends or original issue discount described in Section 3406(c) of
the Code, or (ii) there has been a failure of the payee to certify under the
penalty of perjury that the payee is not subject to backup withholding under the
Internal Revenue Code.
29
Some holders, including corporations, may be exempt from backup
withholding. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a
payment to a holder will be allowed as a credit against the holder's United
States Federal income tax and may entitle the holder to a refund, provided that
the required information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.
Non-U.S. Holders. Generally, information reporting will apply to
payments of dividends on our common stock, interest, including OID, and backup
withholding as described above for a U.S. holder, unless the payee certifies
that it is not a U.S. person or otherwise establishes an exemption.
The payment of the proceeds from the disposition of our common stock to
or through the U.S. office of a U.S. or foreign broker will be subject to
information reporting and backup withholding as described above for U.S. holders
unless the non-U.S. holder satisfies the requirements necessary to be an exempt
non-U.S. holder or otherwise qualifies for an exemption. The proceeds of a
disposition by a non-U.S. holder of stock to or through a foreign office of a
broker generally will not be subject to information reporting or backup
withholding. However, if the broker is a U.S. person, a controlled foreign
corporation for U.S. tax purposes, a foreign person 50% or more of whose gross
income from all sources for specified periods is from activities that are
effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business, a foreign partnership if
partners who hold more than 50% of the interests in the partnership are U.S.
persons, or a foreign partnership that is engaged in the conduct of a trade or
business in the U.S., then information reporting generally will apply as though
the payment was made through a U.S. office of a U.S. or foreign broker.
Applicable Treasury Regulations provide presumptions regarding the
status of holders when payments to the holders cannot be reliably associated
with appropriate documentation provided to the payor. Under these Treasury
Regulations, some holders are required to provide new certifications with
respect to payments made after December 31, 2000. Because the application of
these Treasury Regulations varies depending on the stockholder's particular
circumstances, you are advised to consult your tax advisor regarding the
information reporting requirements applicable to you.
30
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
The selling stockholder may offer its shares of common stock at various
times in one or more of the following transactions:
o in transactions on the Nasdaq Stock Market or such other markets
on which our common stock may be listed at the time of such sale;
o in privately negotiated transactions; or
o through a combination of these or other methods.
The selling stockholder may offer its shares of common stock at fixed
prices or prices which may be changed, at market prices prevailing at the time
of the sale, at prices related to such market prices or at negotiated prices.
The selling stockholder may use broker-dealers to sell its shares of
common stock. If this occurs, broker-dealers will either receive discounts or
commission from the selling stockholder, or they will receive commissions from
the purchasers of shares of common stock. Broker-dealers may act as brokers by
purchasing any or all of the shares covered by this prospectus as agents for
others or as dealers by purchasing any or all of the shares covered by this
prospectus as principals for their own accounts and reselling such securities
under the prospectus.
The selling stockholder and any broker-dealers or other persons acting
on the behalf of parties that participate in the distribution of the shares may
be considered underwriters under the Securities Act. As such, any commissions or
profits they receive on the resales of the shares may be considered underwriting
discounts and commissions under the Securities Act.
As of the date of this prospectus, we are not aware of any agreement,
arrangement or understanding between any broker or dealer and the selling
stockholder with respect to the offer to sell the shares under this prospectus.
If we become aware of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, to the extent
required under the Securities Act, we will file a supplemental prospectus to
disclose:
o names of such broker-dealers;
o the number of shares involved;
o the price at which such shares are to be sold;
o the commissions paid or discounts or concessions allowed to such
broker-dealers, where applicable; and
o other facts material to the transaction.
The selling stockholder may also transfer the common stock held by it
by gift or other non-sale related transfer, in which case the donees,
transferees or other successors-in-interest will be deemed to be selling
stockholders. In that event, the number of shares offered by Palisade
31
Concentrated Equity Partnership, L.P. will decrease as and when it takes any of
the above actions, although the aggregate number of shares offered under this
prospectus will remain unchanged. The plan of distribution will also remain
unchanged. In addition, any shares covered by this prospectus that qualify for
sale pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act may be sold by any selling
stockholder under Rule 144 rather than pursuant to this prospectus.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters in connection with the common stock offered
hereby will be passed upon for us by Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP. The
discussion of legal matters under "Material United States Federal Income Tax
Consequences" is based upon an opinion of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements and schedules of Monmouth Real
Estate Investment Corporation as of September 30, 2002 and 2001, and for each of
the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2002, have been
incorporated by reference herein in reliance upon the report of KPMG LLP,
independent accountants, incorporated by reference herein, and upon the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
32
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 14. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution
The following is an itemized statement of estimated expenses to be paid
by the Registrant in connection with the issuance and sale of the securities
being registered.
Securities and Exchange Commission registration fee........ $ 775
Accounting fees and expenses............................... 5,000*
Printing fees.............................................. 3,000*
Legal fees and expenses.................................... 5,000*
Transfer agent, registrar and trustee fees................. -0-
Miscellaneous.............................................. 5,000*
----------
Total............................................. $ 1,875*
==========
*Estimated
Item 15. Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Company (the "Company") is organized in
the State of Maryland. The Maryland General Corporation Law ("MGCL") permits a
corporation to include in its charter a provision limiting the liability of its
directors and officers to the corporation and its stockholders for money damages
except for liability resulting from (i) actual receipt of an improper personal
benefit or profit in money, property or services or (ii) active and deliberate
dishonesty established by a final judgment as being material to the cause of
action.
The MGCL requires a corporation to indemnify its present and former
directors or officers who have been successful, on the merits or otherwise, in
the defense of any proceeding to which the person is made a party by reason of
his or her service in that capacity. The MGCL permits a corporation to indemnify
its present and former directors and officers in connection with any proceeding
to which they may be made a party by reason of their service in those or other
capacities unless it is established that (i) the act or omission of the
indemnified party was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and
(a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate
dishonesty, (ii) the indemnified party actually received an improper personal
benefit in money, property or services or (iii) in the case of any criminal
proceeding, the indemnified party had reasonable cause to believe that the act
or omission was unlawful.
The indemnification may be against judgments, penalties, fines,
settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by the director or officer
in connection with the proceeding; provided, however, that if the proceeding is
one by or in the right of the Maryland corporation, indemnification may not be
made in respect of any proceeding in which the director or officer has been
adjudged to be liable to the corporation.
II-1
In addition, a director or officer of a Maryland corporation may not be
indemnified with respect to any proceeding charging improper personal benefit to
the director or officer in which the director or officer was adjudged to be
liable on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received. The
termination of any proceeding by conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere or
its equivalent or an entry of an order of probation prior to judgment creates a
rebuttal presumption that the director or officer did not meet the requisite
standard of conduct required for permitted indemnification. The termination of
any proceeding by judgment, order or settlement, however, does not create a
presumption that the director or officer did not meet the requisite standard of
conduct for permitted indemnification.
As a condition to advancing expenses to a director who is a party to a
proceeding, the MGCL requires the Company to obtain (a) a written affirmation by
the director or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or she has met
the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the Company and (b) a
written statement by or on his or her behalf to repay the amount paid or
reimbursed by the Company if it is ultimately determined that the standard of
conduct was not met.
The Company's Articles of Incorporation provide that the Company must
indemnify its directors and officers, whether serving the Company or at its
request any other entity, to the full extent required or permitted by Maryland
law, including the advance of expenses under the procedures and to the full
extent permitted by law. The Company's Articles of Incorporation contain a
provision which limits a director's or officer's liability for monetary damages
to the Company or its stockholders.
The Company has entered into Indemnification Agreements with its
directors and certain officers which generally provide that the Company is
required to indemnify any director or officer who was, is or becomes a party to
or witness or other participant in: (i) any threatened, pending or completed
action, suit or proceeding in which any director or officer may be or may have
been involved, as a party or otherwise, by reason of the fact that the director
or officer was acting in his or her capacity as a director or officer of the
Company; or (ii) any inquiry, hearing or investigation that such director or
officer in good faith believes might lead to the institution of any such action,
suit or proceeding against any and all expenses, to the fullest extent
permitted by law.
Item 16. Exhibits.
Exhibit Description of Exhibit
Number Filed herewith:
------ --------------
(4.1) Articles of Incorporation of Monmouth Real Estate
Investment Corporation (incorporated by reference
from Appendix B of Monmouth Real Estate Investment
Corporation's Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with
the SEC on April 7, 2003).
(4.2) Bylaws of Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation
(incorporated by reference from Appendix C of Monmouth Real
Estate Investment Corporation's Definitive Proxy
Statement, filed with the SEC on April 7, 2003).
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(5) Opinion of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP.
(23.1) Consent of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP (included in Exhibit 5).
(23.2) Consent of KPMG LLP.
(24) Power of Attorney.
Item 17. Undertakings.
The Registrant hereby undertakes:
1. To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:
(i) To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3)of
the Securities Act of 1933.
(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising
after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most
recent post-effective amendment thereto) which, individually or in the
aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth
in the registration statement;
(iii) To include any material information with respect to the
plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration
statement or any material change to such information in the
registration statement, including (but not limited to) any addition or
deletion of a managing underwriter;
Provided, however, that paragraphs 1(i) and (1)(ii) of this
section do not apply if the registration statement is on Form S-3, Form
S-8 or Form F-3, and the information required to be included in a
post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in periodic
reports filed with or furnished to the Commission by the Registrant
pursuant to section 13 or section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 that are incorporated by reference in the registration
statement.
2. That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be
a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.
3. To remove from registration by means of a post-effective
amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering.
4. The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that, for
purposes of determining liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing
of the registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference in the
registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating
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to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities
shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
5. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise,
the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and
Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed
in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent,
submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will
be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
[The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank.]
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Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all
the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in the Township of Freehold, State of New Jersey on the 21st day of
May, 2003:
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation
By: /s/ EUGENE W. LANDY
------------------------------------------
Printed Name: Eugene W. Landy
Title: Chairman of the Board and President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities indicated on this 21st day of May, 2003.
/s/ EUGENE W. LANDY /s/ MATTHEW I. HIRSCH
------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Eugene W. Landy Matthew I. Hirsch
Chairman of the Board, Director
President and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ CYNTHIA J. MORGENSTERN /s/ CHARLES P. KAEMPFFER
------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Cynthia J. Morgenstern Charles P. Kaempffer
Executive Vice President and Director Director
/s/ ERNEST V. BENCIVENGA /s/ SAMUEL A. LANDY
------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Ernest V. Bencivenga Samuel A. Landy
Treasurer and Director Director
/s/ ANNA T. CHEW /s/ JOHN R. SAMPSON
------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Anna T. Chew John R. Sampson
Controller and Director Director
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
/s/ DANIEL D. CRONHEIM /s/ PETER J. WEIDHORN
------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Daniel D. Cronheim Peter J. Weidhorn
Director Director
Index to Exhibits
Exhibit Description of Exhibit
Number Filed herewith:
------ --------------
(4.1) Articles of Incorporation of Monmouth Real Estate
Investment Corporation (incorporated by reference
from Appendix B of Monmouth Real Estate Investment
Corporation's Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with
the SEC on April 7, 2003).
(4.2) Bylaws of Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation (incorporated
by reference from Appendix C of Monmouth Real Estate Investment
Corporation's Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with the SEC on
April 7, 2003).
(5) Opinion of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP.
(23.1) Consent of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP (included in Exhibit 5).
(23.2) Consent of KPMG LLP.
(24) Power of Attorney.