As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 24, 2003



================================================================================
                                                    1933 Act File No. 333-104599
                                                    1940 Act File No. 811-21333


                    U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            Washington, D.C. 20549
                                   Form N-2

                       (Check appropriate box or boxes)


[ ]  REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

[X]  Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2


[ ]  Post-Effective Amendment No. _

          and

[X]  REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940

[X]  Amendment No. 3



                 Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2
          Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Declaration of Trust

                 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606
 Address of Principal Executive Offices (Number, Street, City, State, Zip Code)

                                 (800) 257-8787
               Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code

                               Jessica R. Droeger
                          Vice President and Secretary
                              333 West Wacker Drive
                             Chicago, Illinois 60606
  Name and Address (Number, Street, City, State, Zip Code) of Agent for Service

                          Copies of Communications to:


      Stacy H. Winick               Eric F. Fess         Sarah E. Cogan
Bell, Boyd & Lloyd PLLC        Chapman and Cutler Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
1615 L Street, N.W., Suite 1200    111 W. Monroe         425 Lexington Ave
    Washington, DC 20036         Chicago, IL 60603      New York, NY 10017


                  Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:

 As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement

                              --------------------

     If any of the securities being registered on this form are offered on a
delayed or continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, other than securities offered in connection with a dividend reinvestment
plan, check the following box. [ ]

     It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate
box)

     [X] when declared effective pursuant to section 8(c)

                             --------------------

       CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933






==============================================================================================================================
                                                                                     Proposed Maximum
   Title of Securities Being            Amount             Proposed Maximum         Aggregate Offering         Amount of
          Registered               Being Registered     Offering Price Per Unit         Price (1)          Registration Fee(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                               
Common Shares, $0.01 par value    140,000,000 Shares           $15.00                  $2,100,000,000            $169,890
==============================================================================================================================




(1) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee.
(2) $4,854 of which has already been paid.

     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 this Registration Statement
shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the
Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become
effective on such dates as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.

================================================================================



The information in this Prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may
not sell these securities 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, DATED         , 2003

PROSPECTUS
[LOGO] NUVEEN
Investments


                                         Shares


                Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2

                                 Common Shares
                               $15.00 per share
                                 -------------
   Investment Objectives. The Fund is a newly organized, diversified,
closed-end management investment company.
  .  The Fund's primary investment objective is high current income; and
  .  The Fund's secondary objective is total return.
   No Prior History.  Because the Fund is newly organized, its common shares
have no history of public trading. Shares of closed-end investment companies
frequently trade at a discount from their net asset value. This risk may be
greater for investors who expect to sell their shares in a relatively short
period after completion of the public offering.
                                                  (continued on following page)
                                 -------------
   Investing in common shares involves certain risks. See "Risks" beginning on
page 45.

   Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if
this Prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is
a criminal offense.
                                 -------------


                                              Per Share Total /(3)/
                                              --------- ----------
                                                  
             Public Offering Price             $15.000
             Sales Load/(1)/                   $ 0.675
             Estimated Offering Expenses/(2)/  $ 0.030
             Proceeds to the Fund              $14.295

--------
(1)Certain underwriters that may also participate in any future offering of
   preferred shares of the Fund may receive additional compensation in that
   offering based on their participation in this offering. See "Underwriting."
(2)Total expenses of issuance and distribution (other than underwriting
   discounts and commissions) are estimated to be $         . Nuveen
   Investments, LLC has agreed to reimburse offering expenses in excess of
   $0.03 per share.
(3)The Fund has granted the underwriters an option to purchase up to
   additional common shares at the Public Offering Price less the Sales Load,
   solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If such option is exercised in
   full, the total Public Offering Price, Sales Load, Estimated Offering
   Expenses and Proceeds to the Fund will be $             , $          ,
   $          and $             , respectively. See "Underwriting."


The underwriters expect to deliver the common shares to purchasers on or about
      , 2003.

                                 -------------

                        
Citigroup                                Nuveen Investments, LLC
A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.                  Prudential Securities
                Wachovia Securities
Advest, Inc.                               Robert W. Baird & Co.
H&R Block Financial                        Crowell, Weedon & Co.
Advisors, Inc.
Fahnestock & Co. Inc.                        Ferris, Baker Watts

                                                    Incorporated
Janney Montgomery Scott                   Legg Mason Wood Walker
LLC
                                                  Incorporated
McDonald Investments Inc.                   Quick & Reilly, Inc.
RBC Capital Markets                              Ryan Beck & Co.
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company                         TD Waterhouse
          Incorporated
Wedbush Morgan Securities                Wells Fargo Securities,
Inc.                                                         LLC


       , 2003



   The common shares have been approved for listing on the New York Stock
Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. The trading or "ticker" symbol of the
common shares is "JQC ."

   Adviser and Subadvisers.  Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. will be the
Fund's investment adviser, responsible for determining the Fund's overall
investment strategy, including allocating the portion of the Fund's assets to
be invested in preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments, and also for managing the portion of the Fund's assets allocated
to other debt instruments. Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. and Froley, Revy
Investment Co., Inc. will be the Fund's subadvisers. The Fund's assets
allocated to preferred securities will be managed by Spectrum Asset Management,
Inc. and the Fund's assets allocated to convertible securities will be managed
by Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc.

   Portfolio Contents. Under normal circumstances, the Fund:

  .  will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets (as defined on page 5 of
     this Prospectus) in preferred securities, convertible securities and
     related instruments; and

  .  may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in other securities, including
     debt instruments and common stocks acquired upon conversion of a
     convertible security (such common stocks not normally to exceed 5% of the
     Fund's Managed Assets).

   Initially, Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. will allocate approximately
60%, 30% and 10% of the Fund's Managed Assets to preferred securities,
convertible securities and other debt instruments, respectively. Thereafter,
the portion of the Fund's Managed Assets invested in preferred securities,
convertible securities and other debt instruments will vary from time to time
consistent with the Fund's investment objectives, although the Fund will
normally invest at least 50% of its Managed Assets in preferred securities and
at least 20% of its Managed Assets in convertible securities (so long as the
combined total equals at least 80% of the Fund's Managed Assets). In making
allocation decisions, Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. will consider factors
such as interest rate levels, conditions and developing trends in the bond and
equity markets, analysis of relative valuations for preferred, convertible and
other debt instruments, and other economic and market factors, including the
overall outlook for the economy and inflation.

  .  The Fund will invest at least 65% of its Managed Assets in securities
     that, at the time of investment, are investment grade quality, which
     includes securities that are unrated but judged to be of comparable
     quality. Split-rated securities (as defined on page 5 of this Prospectus)
     are considered to be investment grade quality securities, except that to
     the extent the Fund owns split-rated securities that exceed 10% of its
     Managed Assets, the excess over 10% will not be considered to be
     investment grade quality.

  .  The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at
     the time of investment, are not investment grade quality. The Fund will
     only invest in securities that, at the time of investment, are rated B or
     higher by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating
     organization or that are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality,
     except, however, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its Managed Assets in
     securities with a highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but judged to
     be of comparable quality.

   The Fund intends that most or all of the preferred securities in which it
invests will be fully taxable and will not be eligible for the dividends
received deduction. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its
investment objectives. See "The Fund's Investments" and "Risks."

   You should read this Prospectus, which contains important information about
the Fund, before deciding whether to invest and retain it for future reference.
A Statement of Additional Information, dated          , 2003, and as it may be
supplemented, containing additional information about the Fund, has been filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is incorporated by reference in
its entirety into this Prospectus. You may request a free copy of the Statement
of Additional Information, the table of contents of which is on page 70 of this
Prospectus, by calling (800) 257-8787 or by writing to the Fund, or you may
obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Fund) from the Securities
and Exchange Commission's web site (http://www.sec.gov).

   The Fund's common shares do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and
are not guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other insured depository
institution, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.

                                      2



   You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by
reference in this Prospectus. The Fund has not authorized anyone to provide you
with different information. The Fund is not making an offer of these securities
in any state where the offer is not permitted. You should not assume that the
information contained in this Prospectus is accurate as of any date other than
the date on the front of this Prospectus.

                                 -------------

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS



                                                                     Page
                                                                     ----
                                                                  
       Prospectus Summary...........................................   4
       Summary of Fund Expenses.....................................  20
       The Fund.....................................................  22
       Use of Proceeds..............................................  22
       The Fund's Investments.......................................  22
       Use of Leverage..............................................  35
       Hedging Transactions.........................................  37
       Risks........................................................  45
       Management of the Fund.......................................  53
       Net Asset Value..............................................  56
       Distributions................................................  57
       Dividend Reinvestment Plan...................................  59
       Description of Shares........................................  60
       Certain Provisions in the Declaration of Trust...............  62
       Repurchase of Fund Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund.......  63
       Tax Matters..................................................  64
       Underwriting.................................................  66
       Custodian and Transfer Agent.................................  69
       Legal Opinions...............................................  69
       Table of Contents for the Statement of Additional Information  70


                                 -------------

   Until         , 2003 (25 days after the date of this Prospectus), all
dealers that buy, sell or trade the common shares, whether or not participating
in this offering, may be required to deliver a Prospectus. This is in addition
to the dealers' obligation to deliver a Prospectus when acting as underwriters
and with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.

                                       3



                              PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

   This is only a summary. You should review the more detailed information
contained elsewhere in this Prospectus and in the Statement of Additional
Information to understand the offering fully.

The Fund..............   Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2 (the
                           "Fund") is a newly organized, diversified,
                           closed-end management investment company.


The Offering..........   The Fund is offering            common shares of
                           beneficial interest at $15.00 per share through a
                           group of underwriters (the "Underwriters") led by
                           Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Nuveen Investments,
                           LLC ("Nuveen"), A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.,
                           Prudential Securities Incorporated, Wachovia
                           Securities, LLC, Advest, Inc., Robert W. Baird & Co.
                           Incorporated, H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc.,
                           Crowell, Weedon & Co., Fahnestock & Co. Inc.,
                           Ferris, Baker Watts, Incorporated, Janney Montgomery
                           Scott LLC, Legg Mason Wood Walker, Incorporated,
                           McDonald Investments Inc., a KeyCorp Company, Quick
                           & Reilly, Inc. A FleetBoston Financial Company, RBC
                           Dain Rauscher Inc., Ryan Beck & Co., Inc., Stifel,
                           Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, TD Waterhouse
                           Investor Services, Inc., Wedbush Morgan Securities
                           Inc. and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC. The common
                           shares of beneficial interest are called "Common
                           Shares" in this Prospectus. You must purchase at
                           least 100 Common Shares in this offering. The Fund
                           has given the Underwriters an option to purchase up
                           to            additional Common Shares to cover
                           orders in excess of            Common Shares. See
                           "Underwriting." Nuveen has agreed to pay (i) all
                           organizational expenses and (ii) offering costs
                           (other than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per Common
                           Share.


Investment Objectives
and Policies..........   The Fund's primary investment objective is high
                           current income. The Fund's secondary investment
                           objective is total return. The Fund's investment
                           objectives and certain investment policies are
                           considered fundamental and may not be changed
                           without shareholder approval. The Fund cannot assure
                           you that it will attain its investment objectives.
                           See "The Fund's Investments" and "Risks."

                         Under normal circumstances the Fund:

                            .   will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets
                                in preferred securities, convertible securities
                                and related instruments. The Fund intends that
                                most or all of the preferred securities in
                                which it invests will be fully taxable and will
                                not be eligible for the dividends received
                                deduction; and

                            .   may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in
                                other securities, including debt instruments
                                and common stocks acquired upon conversion of a
                                convertible security (such common stocks not
                                normally to exceed 5% of the Fund's Managed
                                Assets).

                                      4



                         The Fund's average daily net assets (including assets
                           attributable to any FundPreferred(TM) shares (as
                           defined below) that may be outstanding and the
                           principal amount of any Borrowings (as defined
                           below)) is called "Managed Assets."

                         The Fund's assets allocated to preferred securities
                           will be managed by Spectrum Asset Management, Inc.
                           ("Spectrum"). The Fund's assets allocated to
                           convertible securities will be managed by Froley,
                           Revy Investment Co., Inc. ("Froley, Revy"). The
                           Fund's assets allocated to other debt instruments
                           will be managed by Nuveen Institutional Advisory
                           Corp. ("NIAC").

                         NIAC will be responsible for determining the Fund's
                           overall investment strategy, including allocating
                           the portion of the Fund's assets to be invested in
                           preferred securities, convertible securities and
                           other debt instruments. Initially, NIAC will
                           allocate approximately 60%, 30% and 10% of the
                           Fund's Managed Assets to preferred securities,
                           convertible securities, and other debt instruments,
                           respectively. Thereafter, the portion of the Fund's
                           Managed Assets invested in preferred securities,
                           convertible securities and other debt instruments
                           will vary from time to time consistent with the
                           Fund's investment objectives, although the Fund will
                           normally invest at least 50% of its Managed Assets
                           in preferred securities and at least 20% of its
                           Managed Assets in convertible securities (so long as
                           the combined total equals at least 80% of the Fund's
                           Managed Assets). See "The Fund's Investments" and
                           "Management of the Fund."

                            .   The Fund will invest at least 65% of its
                                Managed Assets in securities that, at the time
                                of investment, are investment grade quality.
                                Initially, the Fund intends to invest
                                approximately 75% of its Managed Assets in
                                investment grade quality securities. Investment
                                grade quality securities are those securities
                                that, at the time of investment, are (i) rated
                                by at least one nationally recognized
                                statistical rating organization ("NRSRO")
                                within the four highest grades (Baa or BBB or
                                better by Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
                                ("Moody's"), Standard & Poor's Corporation, a
                                division of The McGraw-Hill Companies ("S&P"),
                                or Fitch Ratings ("Fitch")), or (ii) unrated
                                but judged to be of comparable quality.

                                Securities that, at the time of investment, are
                                rated below investment grade by Moody's, S&P or
                                Fitch, so long as at least one NRSRO rates such
                                securities within the four highest grades (such
                                securities are called "split-rated
                                securities"), are considered to be investment
                                grade quality securities, except that to the
                                extent the Fund owns split-rated securities
                                that exceed 10% of its Managed Assets, the
                                excess over 10% will not be considered to be
                                investment grade quality.

                                      5



                            .   The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed
                                Assets in securities that, at the time of
                                investment, are not investment grade quality.
                                The Fund will only invest in securities that,
                                at the time of investment, are rated B or
                                higher by at least one NRSRO or that are
                                unrated but judged to be of comparable quality,
                                except, however, the Fund may invest up to 5%
                                of its Managed Assets in securities with a
                                highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but
                                judged to be of comparable quality.

                         Securities of below investment grade quality are
                           regarded as having predominately speculative
                           characteristics with respect to capacity to pay
                           interest and repay principal, and are commonly
                           referred to as junk bonds. See "The Fund's
                           Investments--Investment Objectives and Policies" and
                           "Risks--High Yield Risk."

                         In addition, under normal circumstances:

                            .   The Fund intends to invest at least 25% of its
                                Managed Assets in the securities of companies
                                principally engaged in financial services. See
                                "The Fund's Investments--Portfolio
                                Composition--Financial Services Company
                                Securities."

                            .   The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed
                                Assets in securities that, at the time of
                                investment, are illiquid (i.e., securities that
                                are not readily marketable). All securities and
                                other instruments in which the Fund invests
                                will be subject to this 10% limitation to the
                                extent they are deemed to be illiquid.
                                Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest
                                more than 5% of its Managed Assets in illiquid
                                securities.

                            .   The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed
                                Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers.
                                Subject to this 35% limitation, up to 10% of
                                the Fund's Managed Assets may be invested in
                                securities that are denominated in Japanese
                                yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros
                                and which may be offered, traded or listed in
                                markets other than U.S. markets. The remainder
                                of the Fund's Managed Assets that may be
                                invested in securities of non-U.S. issuers will
                                be invested in U.S. dollar denominated
                                securities offered, traded or listed in U.S.
                                markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to
                                invest more than 20% of its Managed Assets in
                                securities of non-U.S. issuers, and does not
                                currently intend to invest in the non-U.S.
                                dollar denominated securities described above.

                         For a more complete discussion of the Fund's initial
                           portfolio composition, see "The Fund's
                           Investments--Initial Portfolio Composition."


                         The taxable preferred securities in which the Fund
                           intends to invest generally do not pay dividends
                           that qualify for reduced rates of federal income
                           taxation available to noncorporate investors on
                           "qualified dividend income" or the dividends
                           received deduction (the "Dividends Received
                           Deduction") under Section 243 of the Internal


                                      6




                           Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The
                           Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of
                           2003 reduced to 15% the maximum tax rate on
                           "qualified dividend income" of noncorporate
                           investors for taxable years beginning before January
                           1, 2009. The Dividends Received Deduction generally
                           allows corporations to deduct from their income 70%
                           of dividends received. Accordingly, any noncorporate
                           shareholder who otherwise may be entitled to reduced
                           tax rates on "qualified dividend income" and any
                           corporate shareholder who otherwise would qualify
                           for the Dividends Received Deduction should not
                           assume that the distributions received from the Fund
                           will qualify for the reduced tax rates or the
                           Dividends Received Deduction. See "Tax Matters."


Proposed Use of
Leverage..............   The Fund, if market conditions are deemed favorable,
                           likely will use leverage by issuing preferred stock
                           ("FundPreferred/TM/ shares"), commercial paper or
                           notes and/or borrowing in an aggregate amount of
                           approximately 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital after
                           such issuance and/ or borrowing. There is no
                           assurance that the Fund will issue FundPreferred
                           shares, commercial paper or notes or engage in
                           borrowing transactions.

                         Subject to market conditions and the Fund's receipt of
                           a AA/Aa credit rating or better from a NRSRO on
                           FundPreferred shares, within approximately one and
                           one-half to two months after completion of this
                           offering, the Fund intends to offer FundPreferred
                           shares. FundPreferred shares will have seniority
                           over the Common Shares. The issuance of
                           FundPreferred shares will leverage your investment
                           in Common Shares.

                         Any issuance of commercial paper or notes or borrowing
                           will have seniority over the Common Shares.
                           Throughout this Prospectus, commercial paper, notes
                           or borrowings sometimes may be collectively referred
                           to as "Borrowings."

                         There is no guarantee that the Fund's leverage
                           strategy will be successful. See "Risks--Leverage
                           Risk." FundPreferred shares will pay dividends based
                           on short-term rates, which will be reset frequently.
                           Borrowings may be at a fixed or floating rate and
                           generally will be based on short-term rates. So long
                           as the rate of return, net of applicable Fund
                           expenses, on the Fund's portfolio investments
                           exceeds the then current FundPreferred share
                           dividend rate or the interest rate on any
                           Borrowings, the investment of the proceeds of
                           FundPreferred shares or Borrowings will generate
                           more income than will be needed to pay such
                           dividends or interest payment. If so, the excess
                           will be available to pay higher dividends to holders
                           of Common Shares ("Common Shareholders").

Proposed Use of Hedging
Transactions..........   The Fund may use derivatives or other transactions for
                           purposes of hedging the portfolio's exposure to the
                           risk of increases in interest

                                      7



                           rates, common stock risk, high yield credit risk and
                           foreign currency exchange rate risk. The specific
                           derivative instruments to be used, or other
                           transactions to be entered into, each for hedging
                           purposes may include (i) options and futures
                           contracts, including options on common stock, stock
                           indexes, bonds and bond indexes, stock index
                           futures, bond index futures and related instruments,
                           (ii) short sales of securities that the Fund owns or
                           has the right to acquire through the conversion of
                           securities, (iii) structured notes and similar
                           instruments, (iv) credit derivative instruments and
                           (v) currency exchange transactions. Some, but not
                           all, of the derivative instruments may be traded and
                           listed on an exchange. The positions in derivatives
                           will be marked-to-market daily at the closing price
                           established on the relevant exchange or at a fair
                           value. See "The Fund's Investments--Portfolio
                           Composition--Hedging Transactions," "Risks--Hedging
                           Risk" and "Risks--Counterparty Risk." Except for
                           investing in synthetic convertible securities, the
                           Fund will use derivatives or other transactions
                           described above solely for purposes of hedging the
                           Fund's portfolio risks.

Interest Rate
Transactions..........   In connection with the Fund's likely use of leverage
                           through the sale of FundPreferred shares or
                           Borrowings, the Fund, if market conditions are
                           deemed favorable, likely will enter into interest
                           rate swap or cap transactions to attempt to protect
                           itself from increasing dividend or interest expenses
                           on its FundPreferred Shares or Borrowings. The use
                           of interest rate swaps and caps is a highly
                           specialized activity that involves investment
                           techniques and risks different from those associated
                           with ordinary portfolio security transactions.

                         In an interest rate swap, the Fund would agree to pay
                           to the other party to the interest rate swap (which
                           is known as the "counterparty") a fixed rate payment
                           in exchange for the counterparty agreeing to pay to
                           the Fund a payment at a variable rate that is
                           expected to approximate the rate on the Fund's
                           variable rate payment obligation on FundPreferred
                           shares or any variable rate Borrowings. The payment
                           obligations would be based on the notional amount of
                           the swap.

                         In an interest rate cap, the Fund would pay a premium
                           to the counterparty to the interest rate cap and, to
                           the extent that a specified variable rate index
                           exceeds a predetermined fixed rate, would receive
                           from the counterparty payments of the difference
                           based on the notional amount of such cap. Depending
                           on the state of interest rates in general, the
                           Fund's use of interest rate swap or cap transactions
                           could enhance or harm the overall performance of the
                           Common Shares. To the extent there is a decline in
                           interest rates, the value of the interest rate swap
                           or cap could decline, and could result in a decline
                           in the net asset value of the Common Shares. In
                           addition, if the counterparty to an interest rate
                           swap or cap defaults, the Fund

                                      8



                           would not be able to use the anticipated net
                           receipts under the swap or cap to offset the
                           dividend payments on FundPreferred shares or
                           interest payments on Borrowings.

                         Depending on whether the Fund would be entitled to
                           receive net payments from the counterparty on the
                           swap or cap, which in turn would depend on the
                           general state of short-term interest rates at that
                           point in time, such a default could negatively
                           impact the performance of the Common Shares. In
                           addition, at the time an interest rate swap or cap
                           transaction reaches its scheduled termination date,
                           there is a risk that the Fund would not be able to
                           obtain a replacement transaction or that the terms
                           of the replacement would not be as favorable as on
                           the expiring transaction. If either of these events
                           occurs, it could have a negative impact on the
                           performance of the Common Shares. If the Fund fails
                           to maintain a required 200% asset coverage of the
                           liquidation value of the outstanding FundPreferred
                           shares or if the Fund loses its expected rating on
                           FundPreferred shares of at least AA/Aa or fails to
                           maintain other covenants with respect to the
                           FundPreferred shares, the Fund may be required to
                           redeem some or all of the FundPreferred shares.
                           Similarly, the Fund could be required to prepay the
                           principal amount of any Borrowings. Such redemption
                           or prepayment would likely result in the Fund
                           seeking to terminate early all or a portion of any
                           swap or cap transaction. Early termination of a swap
                           could result in a termination payment by or to the
                           Fund. Early termination of a cap could result in a
                           termination payment to the Fund. The Fund intends to
                           maintain in a segregated account with its custodian
                           cash or liquid securities having a value at least
                           equal to the Fund's net payment obligations under
                           any swap transaction, marked-to-market daily. The
                           Fund will not enter into interest rate swap or cap
                           transactions having a notional amount that exceeds
                           the outstanding amount of the Fund's leverage.

                         See "Use of Leverage" and "Hedging Transactions" for
                           additional information.

Investment Adviser and
Subadvisers...........   NIAC will be the Fund's investment adviser,
                           responsible for determining the Fund's overall
                           investment strategy, including allocating the
                           portion of the Fund's assets to be invested in
                           preferred securities, convertible securities and
                           other debt instruments, and also for managing a
                           portion of the Fund's assets. In making allocation
                           decisions, NIAC will consider factors such as
                           interest rate levels, conditions and developing
                           trends in the bond and equity markets, analysis of
                           relative valuations for preferred, convertible and
                           other debt instruments, and other economic and
                           market factors, including the overall outlook for
                           the economy and inflation.

                         The Fund's assets allocated to preferred securities
                           will be managed by Spectrum. The Fund's assets
                           allocated to convertible securities will

                                      9



                           be managed by Froley, Revy. The Fund's assets
                           allocated to other debt instruments will be managed
                           by NIAC. Spectrum and Froley, Revy will sometimes
                           individually be referred to as a "Subadviser" and
                           collectively be referred to as the "Subadvisers."
                           NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy will sometimes
                           individually be referred to as an "Adviser" and
                           collectively be referred to as the "Advisers."

                         NIAC, a registered investment adviser, is a wholly
                           owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc. Founded
                           in 1898, Nuveen Investments, Inc. and its affiliates
                           had approximately $83 billion of assets under
                           management as of April 30, 2003. According to
                           Thomson Wealth Management, Nuveen is the leading
                           sponsor of closed-end exchange-traded funds as
                           measured by the number of funds (103) and the amount
                           of fund assets under management (approximately $42
                           billion) as of April 30, 2003.

                         Spectrum, a registered investment adviser, is an
                           independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of
                           Principal Global Investors, LLC. Founded in 1987,
                           Spectrum had approximately $8 billion in assets
                           under management as of April 30, 2003. Spectrum
                           specializes in the management of diversified
                           preferred security portfolios primarily for
                           institutional clients. Collectively, subsidiaries
                           and affiliates of Principal Global Investors, LLC
                           managed over $98 billion in combined assets
                           worldwide as of April 30, 2003.

                         Froley, Revy, a registered investment adviser, is an
                           independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of
                           First Republic Bank. Founded in 1975, Froley, Revy
                           had approximately $2.5 billion in assets under
                           management as of April 30, 2003. Froley, Revy
                           specializes in the management of convertible
                           securities. Collectively, subsidiaries and
                           affiliates of First Republic Bank, including Froley,
                           Revy, managed approximately $7 billion in combined
                           assets as of April 30, 2003.

                         NIAC will receive an annual fee, payable monthly, in a
                           maximum amount equal to .90% of the Fund's Managed
                           Assets (as previously defined, Managed Assets
                           include assets attributable to any FundPreferred
                           shares that may be outstanding and the principal
                           amount of any Borrowings), with lower fee levels for
                           assets that exceed $500 million. NIAC will pay a
                           portion of that fee to each of the Subadvisers based
                           on each Subadviser's allocated portion of Managed
                           Assets. The Advisers have contractually agreed to
                           reimburse the Fund for fees and expenses in the
                           amount of .32% of average daily Managed Assets of
                           the Fund for the first five full years of the Fund's
                           operations (through June 30, 2008), and for a
                           declining amount for an additional three years
                           (through June 30, 2011).  For more information on
                           fees and expenses, including fees attributable to
                           Common Shares, see "Management of the Fund."

Distributions.........   Subject to the discussion in the following paragraph,
                           commencing with the Fund's first dividend, the Fund
                           intends to make regular monthly cash distributions
                           to Common Shareholders at a level rate (stated in

                                      10



                           terms of a fixed cents per Common Share dividend
                           rate) based on the projected performance of the Fund
                           ("Level Rate Dividend Policy"). The Fund's ability
                           to maintain a Level Rate Dividend Policy will depend
                           on a number of factors, including the stability of
                           income received from its investments and dividends
                           payable on the FundPreferred shares or interest and
                           required principal payments on Borrowings. As
                           portfolio and market conditions change, the rate of
                           dividends on the Common Shares and the Fund's
                           dividend policy could change. Over time, the Fund
                           will distribute all of its net investment income
                           (after it pays accrued dividends on, or redeems or
                           liquidates, any outstanding FundPreferred shares, if
                           any, and interest and required principal payments on
                           Borrowings, if any). In addition, at least annually,
                           the Fund intends to distribute net capital gain and
                           taxable ordinary income, if any, to you so long as
                           the net capital gain and taxable ordinary income are
                           not necessary to pay accrued dividends on, or redeem
                           or liquidate, any FundPreferred shares, or pay
                           interest on or repay any Borrowings. Your initial
                           distribution is expected to be declared
                           approximately 45 days and paid approximately 60 to
                           90 days, from the completion of this offering,
                           depending on market conditions. In most
                           circumstances, you may elect to automatically
                           reinvest some or all of your distributions in
                           additional Common Shares under the Fund's Dividend
                           Reinvestment Plan. See "Distributions" and "Dividend
                           Reinvestment Plan."

                         In June 2002, NIAC, on behalf of itself and certain
                           funds, filed an exemptive application with the
                           Securities and Exchange Commission seeking an order
                           under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940
                           Act") facilitating the implementation of a dividend
                           policy calling for monthly distributions of a fixed
                           percentage of its net asset value ("Managed Dividend
                           Policy"). The application will be amended to include
                           the Fund as a party. If, and when, NIAC, on behalf
                           of itself and other parties, receives the requested
                           relief, the Fund may, subject to the determination
                           of its Board of Trustees, implement a Managed
                           Dividend Policy. See "Distributions."

Listing...............   The Common Shares have been approved for listing on
                           the New York Stock Exchange, subject to notice of
                           issuance. See "Description of Shares--Common
                           Shares." The trading or "ticker" symbol of the
                           Common Shares is "JQC." Because of this exchange
                           listing, the Fund may sometimes be referred to in
                           public communications as a "closed-end
                           exchange-traded fund" or "exchange-traded fund."

Custodian and Transfer
Agent.................   State Street Bank and Trust Company will serve as
                           custodian and transfer agent for the Fund. See
                           "Custodian and Transfer Agent."

Market Discount from
Net Asset Value.......   Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently
                           trade at prices lower than net asset value. This
                           characteristic is a risk separate and distinct from
                           the risk that the Fund's net asset value could
                           decrease

                                      11



                           as a result of investment activities and may be a
                           greater risk for investors expecting to sell their
                           shares in a relatively short period of time
                           following the completion of this offering. The Fund
                           cannot predict whether Common Shares will trade at,
                           above or below net asset value. Net asset value of
                           the Fund will be reduced immediately following the
                           offering by the sales load and the amount of
                           organization and offering expenses paid by the Fund.
                           See "Use of Proceeds," "Use of Leverage," "Risks,"
                           "Description of Shares," "Repurchase of Fund Shares;
                           Conversion to Open-End Fund" and the Statement of
                           Additional Information under "Repurchase of Fund
                           Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund." The Common
                           Shares are designed primarily for long-term
                           investors, and you should not view the Fund as a
                           vehicle for trading purposes.

Special Risk
Considerations........   No Operating History.  The Fund is a newly organized,
                           diversified, closed-end management investment
                           company with no history of operations.

                         Investment and Market Risk.  An investment in the
                           Fund's Common Shares is subject to investment risk,
                           including the possible loss of the entire principal
                           amount that you invest. Your investment in Common
                           Shares represents an indirect investment in the
                           securities owned by the Fund, most of which are
                           traded on a national securities exchange or in the
                           over-the-counter markets. The value of these
                           securities, like other market investments, may move
                           up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably.

                         Your Common Shares at any point in time may be worth
                           less than your original investment, even after
                           taking into account the reinvestment of Fund
                           dividends and distributions. The Fund likely will
                           use leverage, which magnifies the stock market and
                           interest rate risks. See "Use of Leverage" and
                           "Risks--Investment and Market Risk."

                         Interest Rate Risk.  Interest rate risk is the risk
                           that fixed-income securities such as preferred,
                           convertible and other debt securities will decline
                           in value because of changes in market interest
                           rates. When market interest rates rise, the market
                           value of such securities generally will fall. The
                           Fund's investment in such securities means that the
                           net asset value and market price of Common Shares
                           will tend to decline if market interest rates rise.
                           Market interest rates currently are at historically
                           low levels.

                         During periods of declining interest rates, an issuer
                           may exercise its option to prepay principal earlier
                           than scheduled, forcing the Fund to reinvest in
                           lower yielding securities. This is known as call or
                           prepayment risk. During periods of rising interest
                           rates, the average life of certain types of
                           securities may be extended because of slower than
                           expected principal payments. This may lock in a
                           below market

                                      12



                           interest rate, increase the security's duration and
                           reduce the value of the security. This is known as
                           extension risk. See "Risks--Investment and Market
                           Risk" and "Risks--Interest Rate Risk."

                         Credit Risk; Subordination.  Credit risk is the risk
                           that a security in the Fund's portfolio will decline
                           in price or fail to make dividend or interest
                           payments when due because the issuer of the security
                           experiences a decline in its financial status.
                           Preferred and convertible securities are typically
                           subordinated to bonds and other debt instruments in
                           a company's capital structure, in terms of priority
                           to corporate income, and therefore will be subject
                           to greater credit risk than those debt instruments.
                           See "Risks--Credit Risk; Subordination" and
                           "Risks--High Yield Risk."

                         High Yield Risk.   The Fund may invest up to 35% of
                           its Managed Assets in securities that, at the time
                           of investment, are not investment grade quality. The
                           Fund will only invest in securities that, at the
                           time of investment, are rated B or higher by at
                           least one NRSRO or that are unrated but judged to be
                           of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for
                           the investment, except, however, the Fund may invest
                           up to 5% of its Managed Assets in securities with a
                           highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but judged
                           to be of comparable quality by the Adviser
                           responsible for the investment. Securities of below
                           investment grade quality are regarded as having
                           predominately speculative characteristics with
                           respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
                           principal, and are commonly referred to as junk
                           bonds. Issuers of high yield securities may be
                           highly leveraged and may not have available to them
                           more traditional methods of financing. The prices of
                           these lower grade securities are typically more
                           sensitive to negative developments, such as a
                           decline in the issuer's revenues or a general
                           economic downturn, than are the prices of higher
                           grade securities. The secondary market for high
                           yield securities may not be as liquid as the
                           secondary market for more highly rated securities, a
                           factor which may have an adverse effect on the
                           Fund's ability to dispose of a particular security.
                           See "Risks--Credit Risk; Subordination" and
                           "Risks--High Yield Risk."

                         Convertible Security Risk.  Convertible securities
                           generally offer lower interest or dividend yields
                           than non-convertible fixed-income securities of
                           similar credit quality because of the potential for
                           capital appreciation. The market values of
                           convertible securities tend to decline as interest
                           rates increase and, conversely, to increase as
                           interest rates decline. However, a convertible
                           security's market value also tends to reflect the
                           market price of the common stock of the issuing
                           company, particularly when that stock price is
                           greater than the convertible security's "conversion
                           price." The conversion price is defined as the
                           predetermined price or exchange ratio at which the
                           convertible security can be converted or exchanged
                           for the

                                      13



                           underlying common stock. As the market price of the
                           underlying common stock declines below the
                           conversion price, the price of the convertible
                           security tends to be increasingly influenced more by
                           the yield of the convertible security. Thus, it may
                           not decline in price to the same extent as the
                           underlying common stock. In the event of a
                           liquidation of the issuing company, holders of
                           convertible securities would be paid before that
                           company's common stockholders. Consequently, an
                           issuer's convertible securities generally entail
                           less risk than its common stock. However,
                           convertible securities fall below debt obligations
                           of the same issuer in order of preference or
                           priority in the event of a liquidation and are
                           typically unrated or rated lower than such debt
                           obligations. See "Risks--Credit Risk; Subordination."

                         Mandatory convertible securities are distinguished as
                           a subset of convertible securities because the
                           conversion is not optional and the conversion price
                           at maturity is based solely upon the market price of
                           the underlying common stock, which may be
                           significantly less than par or the price (above or
                           below par) paid. For these reasons, the risks
                           associated with investing in mandatory convertible
                           securities most closely resemble the risks inherent
                           in common stocks. Mandatory convertible securities
                           customarily pay a higher coupon yield to compensate
                           for the potential risk of additional price
                           volatility and loss upon conversion. Because the
                           market price of a mandatory convertible security
                           increasingly corresponds to the market price of its
                           underlying common stock, as the convertible security
                           approaches its conversion date, there can be no
                           assurance that the higher coupon will compensate for
                           a potential loss. See "Risks--Convertible Security
                           Risk" and "Risks--Common Stock."

                         Synthetic Convertible Security Risk.  Although the
                           Fund does not currently intend to invest in
                           synthetic convertible securities, it may invest up
                           to 10% of its Managed Assets in such securities. The
                           Fund may invest in synthetic convertible securities
                           created by third parties that, similar to true
                           convertible securities, typically trade as a single
                           security with a unitary value. The Fund also may
                           invest in synthetic convertible securities by
                           acquiring separate securities, one possessing a
                           fixed-income component and the other possessing an
                           equity component. The value of a synthetic
                           convertible security that is comprised of separate
                           securities may respond differently to market
                           fluctuations than a true convertible security or a
                           synthetic convertible security traded as a single
                           security because each separate security comprising
                           such a synthetic convertible security has its own
                           market value. In addition, because the equity
                           component may be synthetically achieved by investing
                           in warrants or options to buy common stock at a
                           certain exercise price, or options on a common stock
                           index, synthetic convertible securities are subject
                           to the risks associated with warrants and options,
                           as discussed below. In

                                      14



                           addition, if the value of the underlying common
                           stock or the level of the index involved in the
                           equity component falls below the exercise price of
                           the warrant or option, the warrant or option may
                           lose all value. See "Risks--Convertible Security
                           Risk" and "Risks--Synthetic Convertible Security
                           Risk."

                         The Fund will be subject to the risks of warrants and
                           options to the extent it invests in synthetic
                           convertible securities that use warrants or options
                           on common stocks or common stock indexes as their
                           equity components. Warrants and options are subject
                           to a number of risks associated with derivative
                           instruments generally and described elsewhere in
                           this Prospectus, such as illiquidity risks and risks
                           associated with investments in common stocks. They
                           also involve the risk of mispricing or improper
                           valuation, the risk of ambiguous documentation, and
                           the risk that changes in the value of a warrant or
                           option may not correlate perfectly with its
                           underlying common stock or common stock index.

                         Leverage Risk.  The use of leverage through the Fund's
                           issuance of FundPreferred shares or Borrowings
                           creates an opportunity for increased Common Share
                           net income and returns but also creates special
                           risks for Common Shareholders as described below. In
                           addition, there is no assurance that the Fund's
                           leveraging strategy will be successful. The Fund
                           will pay (and Common Shareholders will bear) any
                           costs and expenses relating to any Borrowings and to
                           the issuance and ongoing maintenance of
                           FundPreferred shares (for example, distribution
                           related expenses such as a participation fee paid at
                           what the Fund expects will be an annual rate of
                           0.25% of FundPreferred share liquidation preference
                           to broker-dealers successfully participating in
                           FundPreferred share auctions).

                         Leverage creates two major types of risks for Common
                           Shareholders:

                            .   the likelihood of greater volatility of net
                                asset value and market price of Common Shares
                                because changes in the value of the Fund's
                                portfolio investments, including investments
                                purchased with the proceeds of the issuance of
                                FundPreferred shares or Borrowings, are borne
                                entirely by the Common Shareholders; and

                            .   the possibility either that Common Share income
                                will fall if the dividend rate on FundPreferred
                                shares or the interest rate on any Borrowings
                                rises, or that Common Share income will
                                fluctuate because the dividend rate on
                                FundPreferred shares or the interest rate on
                                any Borrowings varies.

                         See "Risks--Leverage Risk."

                         Concentration Risk.  The Fund intends to invest at
                           least 25% of its Managed Assets in securities of
                           companies principally engaged in

                                      15



                           financial services. This policy makes the Fund more
                           susceptible to adverse economic or regulatory
                           occurrences affecting that sector.

                         A company is "principally engaged" in financial
                           services if it has financial services-related
                           businesses that generate at least 50% of its
                           revenues. Companies in the financial services sector
                           include commercial banks, industrial banks, savings
                           institutions, finance companies, diversified
                           financial services companies, investment banking
                           firms, securities brokerage houses, investment
                           advisory companies, leasing companies, insurance
                           companies and companies providing similar services.
                           Concentration of investments in the financial
                           services sector includes the following risks:

                            .   financial services companies may suffer a
                                setback if regulators change the rules under
                                which they operate;

                            .   unstable interest rates can have a
                                disproportionate effect on the financial
                                services sector;

                            .   financial services companies whose securities
                                the Fund may purchase may themselves have
                                concentrated portfolios, such as a high level
                                of loans to real estate developers, which makes
                                them vulnerable to economic conditions that
                                affect that sector; and

                            .   financial services companies have been affected
                                by increased competition, which could adversely
                                affect the profitability and viability of such
                                companies.

                         See "Risks--Concentration Risk."

                         Non-U.S. Securities Risk.  The Fund may invest up to
                           35% of its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S.
                           issuers. Subject to this 35% limitation, up to 10%
                           of the Fund's Managed Assets may be invested in
                           securities that are denominated in Japanese yen,
                           Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros and which
                           may be offered, traded or listed in markets other
                           than U.S. markets. The remainder of the Fund's
                           Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of
                           non-U.S. issuers will be invested in U.S. dollar
                           denominated securities offered, traded or listed in
                           U.S. markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to
                           invest more than 20% of its Managed Assets in
                           securities of non-U.S. issuers and does not
                           currently intend to invest in the non-U.S. dollar
                           denominated securities described above. Investments
                           in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve special
                           risks not presented by investments in securities of
                           U.S. issuers, including the following: less publicly
                           available information about non-U.S. issuers or
                           markets due to less rigorous disclosure or
                           accounting standards or regulatory practices; many
                           non-U.S. markets are smaller, less liquid and more
                           volatile; potential adverse effects of fluctuations
                           in currency exchange rates or controls on the value
                           of the Fund's investments; the economies of non-U.S.
                           countries may grow at slower rates than expected or
                           may

                                      16



                           experience a downturn or recession; the impact of
                           economic, political, social or diplomatic events;
                           possible seizure; and economic withholding and other
                           non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Fund's return. These
                           risks are more pronounced to the extent that the
                           Fund invests a significant amount of its assets in
                           companies located in one region. See
                           "Risks--Non-U.S. Securities Risk."

                         Common Stock Risk.  The Fund will have exposure to
                           common stocks by virtue of the equity component of
                           the convertible securities in which the Fund
                           invests. The Fund may hold common stocks in its
                           portfolio upon conversion of a convertible security,
                           such holdings not normally to exceed 5% of the
                           Fund's Managed Assets. In addition, in keeping with
                           the income focus of the Fund, the Fund expects to
                           sell any common stock holdings as soon as
                           practicable after conversion of a convertible
                           security. Although common stocks historically have
                           generated higher average returns than fixed-income
                           securities, common stocks also have experienced
                           significantly more volatility in those returns. An
                           adverse event, such as an unfavorable earnings
                           report, may depress the value of a particular common
                           stock held by the Fund. Also, prices of common
                           stocks are sensitive to general movements in the
                           stock market and a drop in the stock market may
                           depress the prices of common stocks held by the Fund
                           or to which it has exposure.

                         Hedging Risk.  The Fund may use derivatives or other
                           transactions for purposes of hedging the portfolio's
                           exposure to the risk of increases in interest rates,
                           common stock risk, high yield credit risk and
                           foreign currency exchange rate risk that could
                           result in poorer overall performance for the Fund.
                           The Fund's use of derivatives or other transactions
                           to reduce risk involves costs and will be subject to
                           an Adviser's ability to predict correctly changes in
                           the relationships of such hedge instruments to the
                           Fund's portfolio holdings or other factors. No
                           assurance can be given that such Adviser's judgment
                           in this respect will be correct. In addition, no
                           assurance can be given that the Fund will enter into
                           hedging or other transactions at times or under
                           circumstances in which it may be advisable to do so.
                           See "Hedging Transactions" and "Risks--Hedging
                           Risk." Except for investing in synthetic convertible
                           securities, the Fund will use derivatives or other
                           transactions described above solely for purposes of
                           hedging the Fund's portfolio risks.

                         Interest Rate Transactions Risk.  The Fund may enter
                           into an interest rate swap or cap transaction to
                           attempt to protect itself from increasing dividend
                           or interest expenses on its FundPreferred shares or
                           Borrowings resulting from increasing short-term
                           interest rates. A decline in interest rates may
                           result in a decline in the value of the swap or cap,
                           which may result in a decline in the net asset value
                           of

                                      17



                           the Common Shares.  See "Use of Leverage" and
                           "Hedging Transactions."

                         Limited Voting Rights of Preferred
                           Securities.  Generally, preferred security holders
                           (such as the Fund) have no voting rights with
                           respect to the issuing company unless preferred
                           dividends have been in arrears for a specified
                           number of periods, at which time the preferred
                           security holders may elect a number of directors to
                           the issuer's board. Generally, once all the
                           arrearages have been paid, the preferred security
                           holders no longer have voting rights. In the case of
                           taxable preferred securities (as described under
                           "The Fund's Investments--Portfolio Composition"),
                           holders generally have no voting rights, except if
                           (i) the issuer fails to pay dividends for a
                           specified period of time or (ii) a declaration of
                           default occurs and is continuing.

                         Special Redemption Rights of Preferred Securities.  In
                           certain varying circumstances, an issuer of
                           preferred securities may redeem the securities prior
                           to a specified date. For instance, for certain types
                           of preferred securities, a redemption may be
                           triggered by a change in federal income tax or
                           securities laws. As with call provisions, a special
                           redemption by the issuer may negatively impact the
                           return of the security held by the Fund.

                         See "Risks--Certain Risks Related to Preferred
                           Securities."

                         Corporate Loan Risk.  The Fund may invest up to 20% of
                           its Managed Assets in other debt instruments,
                           including corporate loans. Corporate loans in which
                           the Fund may invest may not be rated by an NRSRO at
                           the time of investment, generally will not be
                           registered with the Securities and Exchange
                           Commission and generally will not be listed on a
                           securities exchange. In addition, the amount of
                           public information available with respect to
                           corporate loans generally will be less extensive
                           than that available for more widely rated,
                           registered and exchange-listed securities. Because
                           the interest rates of corporate loans reset
                           frequently, if market interest rates fall, the
                           loans' interest rates will be reset to lower levels,
                           potentially reducing the Fund's income. No active
                           trading market currently exists for many corporate
                           loans in which the Fund may invest and, thus, they
                           are relatively illiquid. As a result, corporate
                           loans generally are more difficult to value than
                           more liquid securities for which a trading market
                           exists. The Fund also may purchase a participation
                           interest in a corporate loan and by doing so acquire
                           some or all of the interest of a bank or other
                           lending institution in a loan to a corporate
                           borrower. A participation typically will result in
                           the Fund having a contractual relationship only with
                           the lender, not the borrower. In this instance, the
                           Fund will have the right to receive payments of
                           principal, interest and any fees to which it is
                           entitled only from the lender selling the
                           participation and only upon receipt by the lender of
                           the payments

                                      18



                           from the borrower. See "Risks--High Yield
                           Securities" and "Risks--Corporate Loans."

                         Tax Risk.  The Fund may invest in preferred
                           securities, convertible securities or other
                           securities the federal income tax treatment of which
                           may not be clear or may be subject to
                           recharacterization by the Internal Revenue Service.
                           It could be more difficult for the Fund to comply
                           with the tax requirements applicable to regulated
                           investment companies if the tax characterization of
                           the Fund's investments or the tax treatment of the
                           income from such investments were successfully
                           challenged by the Internal Revenue Service. See "Tax
                           Matters."

                         Illiquid Securities Risk.  The Fund may invest up to
                           10% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at the
                           time of investment, are illiquid. Illiquid
                           securities are not readily marketable and may
                           include some restricted securities. Illiquid
                           securities involve the risk that the securities will
                           not be able to be sold at the time desired by the
                           Fund or at prices approximating the value at which
                           the Fund is carrying the securities on its books.


                         Market Disruption Risk.  Certain events have a
                           disruptive effect on the securities markets, such as
                           terrorist attacks (including the terrorist attacks
                           in the U.S. on September 11, 2001), war and other
                           geopolitical events. The Fund cannot predict the
                           effects of similar events in the future on the U.S.
                           economy. High yield securities and securities of
                           issuers with smaller market capitalizations tend to
                           be more volatile than higher rated securities and
                           securities of issuers with larger market
                           capitalizations so that these events and any actions
                           resulting from them may have a greater impact on the
                           prices and volatility of high yield securities and
                           securities of issuers with smaller market
                           capitalization than on higher rated securities and
                           securities of issuers with larger market
                           capitalization.


                         Inflation Risk.  Inflation risk is the risk that the
                           value of assets or income from investment will be
                           worth less in the future as inflation decreases the
                           value of money. As inflation increases, the real
                           value of the Common Shares and distributions can
                           decline. In addition, during any periods of rising
                           inflation, FundPreferred share dividend rates would
                           likely increase, which would tend to further reduce
                           returns to Common Shareholders.

                         Anti-Takeover Provisions.  The Fund's Declaration of
                           Trust (the "Declaration") includes provisions that
                           could limit the ability of other entities or persons
                           to acquire control of the Fund or convert the Fund
                           to open-end status. These provisions could have the
                           effect of depriving the Common Shareholders of
                           opportunities to sell their Common Shares at a
                           premium over the then current market price of the
                           Common Shares. See "Certain Provisions in the
                           Declaration of Trust" and "Risks--Anti-Takeover
                           Provisions."

                                      19



                           SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES

   The Annual Expenses table below assumes the issuance of FundPreferred shares
in an amount equal to 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital (after their issuance), and
shows Fund expenses as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares.


                                                              
Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Sales Load Paid by You (as a percentage of offering price)......         4.50%
Offering Expenses Borne by the Fund (as a percentage of offering
  price)/(1)(2)/................................................          .20%
Dividend Reinvestment Plan Fees.................................      None/(3)/

                                                                   Percentage of
                                                                    Net Assets
                                                                  Attributable to
                                                                 Common Shares/(5)/
                                                                 -----------------
Annual Expenses
Management Fees/(4)/............................................         1.35%
Other Expenses/(4)/.............................................          .30%
Interest Payments on Borrowed Funds/(4)/........................         None
                                                                      -------
Total Annual Expenses/(4)/......................................         1.65%
Fee and Expense Reimbursement (Years 1-5).......................         (.48)%/(6)/
                                                                      -------
Total Net Annual Expenses (Years 1-5)/(4)/......................         1.17%/(6)/
                                                                      =======

--------

(1)Nuveen has agreed to pay offering costs (other than sales load) that exceed
   $0.03 per Common Share.


(2)If the Fund offers FundPreferred shares, costs of that offering, estimated
   to be approximately 2.09% of the total amount of the FundPreferred share
   offering, will effectively be borne by the Common Shareholders and result in
   a reduction of the net asset value of the Common Shares. Assuming the
   issuance of FundPreferred shares in the amount equal to 33 1/3% of the
   Fund's total capital (after issuance), those offering costs are estimated to
   be approximately $.15 per Common Share (1.03% of the estimated proceeds from
   the Fund's Common Share offering, after deducting offering costs).


(3)You will be charged a $2.50 service charge and pay brokerage charges if you
   direct State Street Bank and Trust Company, as agent for the Common
   Shareholders (the "Plan Agent") to sell your Common Shares held in a
   dividend reinvestment account.


(4)In the event the Fund, as an alternative to issuing FundPreferred shares,
   utilizes leverage through Borrowings in an amount equal to 33 1/3% of the
   Fund's total assets (including the amount obtained from leverage), it is
   estimated that, as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares,
   the Management Fee would be 1.35%, Other Expenses would be .30%, Interest
   Payments on Borrowed Funds (assuming an interest rate of 2.50%, which
   interest rate is subject to change based on prevailing market conditions)
   would be 1.25%, Total Annual Expenses would be 2.90% and Total Net Annual
   Expenses would be 2.42%. Based on the total net annual expenses and in
   accordance with the example below, the expenses for years 1, 3, 5 and 10
   would be $70, $119, $170 and $329, respectively.


                                      20



(5)Stated as percentages of net assets attributable to Common Shares. Assuming
   no issuance of FundPreferred shares or Borrowings, the Fund's expenses would
   be estimated to be as follows:



                                                      Percentage of
                                                       Net Assets
                                                     Attributable to
                                                      Common Shares
                                                     ---------------
                                                  
          Annual Expenses
          Management Fees...........................       .90%
          Other Expenses............................       .20%
          Interest Payments on Borrowed Funds.......      None
                                                          ----
          Total Annual Expenses.....................      1.10%
          Fees and Expense Reimbursement (Years 1-5)      (.32)%/(6)/
                                                          ----
          Total Net Annual Expenses (Years 1-5).....       .78%/(6)/
                                                          ====


(6)The Advisers have contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund for fees and
   expenses in the amount of .32% of average daily Managed Assets for the first
   5 full years of the Fund's operations, .24% of average daily Managed Assets
   in year 6, .16% in year 7 and .08% in year 8. Assuming the issuance of
   FundPreferred shares or Borrowings in an amount equal to 33 1/3% of the
   Fund's total assets (including the amount obtained from leverage) and
   calculated as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares,
   those amounts would be .48% for the first 5 full years, .36% in year 6, .24%
   in year 7 and .12% in year 8. Without the reimbursement, "Total Annual
   Expenses" would be estimated to be 1.65% of average daily net assets
   attributable to Common Shares (or, assuming no issuance of FundPreferred
   shares or Borrowings, 1.10% of average daily net assets).


   The purpose of the table above is to help you understand all fees and
expenses that you, as a Common Shareholder, would bear directly or indirectly.
The expenses shown in the table are based on estimated amounts for the Fund's
first year of operations and assume that the Fund issues approximately
80,000,000 Common Shares. See "Management of the Fund" and "Dividend
Reinvestment Plan."


   The following example illustrates the expenses (including the sales load of
$45, estimated offering expenses of this offering of $2 and the estimated
FundPreferred share offering costs assuming FundPreferred shares are issued
representing 33 1/3% of the Fund's total capital (after issuance) of $10) that
you would pay on a $1,000 investment in Common Shares, assuming (1) total
annual expenses of 1.17% of net assets attributable to Common Shares in years 1
through 5, increasing to 1.65% in years 9 and 10 and (2) a 5% annual
return:/(1)/



                      1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years/(2)/
                      ------ ------- ------- ------------
                                    
                       $68     $92    $118       $212


   The example should not be considered a representation of future expenses.
Actual expenses may be higher or lower.
--------
(1)The example assumes that the estimated Other Expenses set forth in the
   Annual Expenses table are accurate, that fees and expenses increase as
   described in note 2 below and that all dividends and distributions are
   reinvested at Common Share net asset value. Actual expenses may be greater
   or less than those assumed. Moreover, the Fund's actual rate of return may
   be greater or less than the hypothetical 5% return shown in the example.

                                      21



(2)Assumes reimbursement of fees and expenses of .24% of average daily Managed
   Assets in year 6, .16% in year 7 and .08% in year 8. The Advisers have not
   agreed to reimburse the Fund for any portion of its fees and expenses beyond
   June 30, 2011. See footnote 6 above and "Management of the Fund--Investment
   Management Agreement."

                                   THE FUND

   The Fund is a newly organized, diversified, closed-end management investment
company registered under the 1940 Act. The Fund was organized as a
Massachusetts business trust on March 17, 2003, pursuant to a Declaration
governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. As a newly organized
entity, the Fund has no operating history. The Fund's principal office is
located at 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606, and its telephone
number is (800) 257-8787.

                                USE OF PROCEEDS

   The net proceeds of the offering of Common Shares will be approximately
$              ($              if the Underwriters exercise the over-allotment
option in full) after payment of the estimated organization and offering costs.
Nuveen has agreed to pay (i) all organizational expenses and (ii) offering
costs (other than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per Common Share. The Fund will
invest the net proceeds of the offering in accordance with the Fund's
investment objectives and policies as stated below. It is presently anticipated
that the Fund will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds in
preferred, convertible and other debt instruments that meet those investment
objectives and policies within approximately two to three months after the
completion of the offering. Pending such investment, it is anticipated that the
proceeds will be invested in short-term or long-term securities issued by the
U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities or in high quality,
short-term money market instruments.

                            THE FUND'S INVESTMENTS

Investment Objectives and Policies

   The Fund's primary investment objective is high current income. The Fund's
secondary objective is total return. There can be no assurance that the Fund's
investment objectives will be achieved.

   Under normal circumstances, the Fund:

  .  will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in preferred securities,
     convertible securities and related instruments; and

  .  may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in other securities, including
     debt instruments and common stocks acquired upon conversion of a
     convertible security (such common stocks not normally to exceed 5% of the
     Fund's Managed Assets).

   NIAC will be responsible for determining the Fund's overall investment
strategy, including allocating the portion of the Fund's assets to be invested
in preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt instruments. See
"Management of the Fund."

                                      22



   The Fund's assets allocated to preferred securities will be managed by
Spectrum. The Fund's assets allocated to convertible securities will be managed
by Froley, Revy. The Fund's assets allocated to other debt instruments will be
managed by NIAC.

   Under normal circumstances, portfolio allocations will conform to the
following guidelines:



                                      Minimum % of   Maximum % of
              Type of Investment     Managed Assets Managed Assets
              ------------------     -------------- --------------
                                              
              Preferred Securities..       50             80
              Convertible Securities       20             50
              Other Debt Instruments        0             20


   Initially, NIAC will allocate approximately 60%, 30% and 10% of the Fund's
Managed Assets to preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments, respectively. Thereafter, the portion of the Fund's Managed Assets
invested in preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments will vary from time to time consistent with the Fund's investment
objectives, although the Fund will normally invest at least 50% of its Managed
Assets in preferred securities and at least 20% of its Managed Assets in
convertible securities (so long as the combined total equals at least 80% of
the Fund's Managed Assets). Convertible preferred securities will be regarded
as convertible securities for purposes of these limits. In making allocation
decisions, NIAC will consider factors such as interest rate levels, conditions
and developing trends in the bond and equity markets, analysis of relative
valuations for preferred, convertible and other debt instruments and other
economic and market factors, including the overall outlook for the economy and
inflation.

   The Fund will invest at least 65% of its Managed Assets in securities that,
at the time of investment, are investment grade quality. Investment grade
quality securities are those securities that, at the time of investment, are
(i) rated by at least one of the NRSROs within the four highest grades (Baa or
BBB or better by Moody's, S&P or Fitch) or (ii) unrated but judged to be of
comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the investment. Split-rated
securities are considered to be investment grade quality securities, except
that to the extent the Fund owns split-rated securities that exceed 10% of its
Managed Assets, the excess over 10% will not be considered to be investment
grade quality. Initially, the Fund intends to invest approximately 75% of its
Managed Assets in investment grade quality securities. The Fund may invest up
to 35% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at the time of investment, are
not investment grade quality. The Fund will only invest in securities that, at
the time of investment, are rated B or higher by at least one NRSRO or that are
unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for
the investment, except, however, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its Managed
Assets in securities with a highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but
judged to be of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the
investment. Securities of below investment grade quality are commonly referred
to as junk bonds and are regarded as having predominately speculative
characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal.
See "Risks--High Yield Risk." See Appendix A in the Statement of Additional
Information for a description of security ratings.

   The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at
the time of investment, are illiquid (i.e., securities that are not readily
marketable). Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more than 5% of its
Managed Assets in illiquid securities. In addition, the Fund may invest up to
35% of its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Subject to this
35% limitation, up to 10% of the

                                      23



Fund's Managed Assets may be invested in securities that are denominated in
Japanese yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros and which may be
offered, traded or listed in markets other than U.S. markets. The remainder of
the Fund's Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of non-U.S.
issuers will be invested in U.S. dollar denominated securities offered, traded
or listed in U.S. markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more
than 20% of its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers and does not
currently intend to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities
described above.

   For a more complete discussion of the Fund's initial portfolio composition,
see "--Initial Portfolio Composition."

   The Fund cannot change its investment objectives without the approval of the
holders of a "majority of the outstanding" Common Shares and FundPreferred
shares voting together as a single class, and of the holders of a "majority of
the outstanding" FundPreferred shares voting as a separate class. When used
with respect to particular shares of the Fund, a "majority of the outstanding"
shares means (i) 67% or more of the shares present at a meeting, if the holders
of more than 50% of the shares are present or represented by proxy or (ii) more
than 50% of the shares, whichever is less. See "Description of
Shares--FundPreferred Shares--Voting Rights" and the Statement of Additional
Information under "Description of Shares--FundPreferred Shares--Voting Rights"
for additional information with respect to the voting rights of holders of
FundPreferred shares.

Investment Philosophy and Process

   Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. (NIAC)

   Asset Allocation Philosophy. NIAC is responsible for the overall strategy
and asset allocation decisions among the three primary asset classes in which
the Fund invests - preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments. The goal of the allocation decision is to effectively capture the
diversification benefits provided by the low return-correlation across these
asset classes and provide the potential for high income generation, an
opportunity to participate in rising equity markets and some protection against
risks associated with rising interest rates. NIAC believes that the opportunity
will exist from time to time to potentially enhance the Fund's total return by
over-weighting or under-weighting these asset classes as the relative
attractiveness of the asset classes changes.

   Asset Allocation Process. In determining the Fund's asset allocation, NIAC
will periodically consult with the Fund's Subadvisers and other investment
manager affiliates of NIAC. NIAC will consider factors such as interest rate
levels, market conditions and developing trends in the bond and equity markets,
analysis of relative valuations for preferred securities, convertible
securities and other debt instruments, and other economic and market factors,
including the overall outlook for the economy and inflation.

   Investment Philosophy. NIAC is responsible for managing the other debt
instruments in which the Fund may invest. NIAC believes that managing risk,
particularly in a volatile asset class such as high yield debt, is of paramount
importance. NIAC believes that a combination of fundamental credit analysis and
valuation information that is available from the equity markets provide a means
of identifying what it believes to be superior investment candidates.
Additionally, NIAC focuses primarily on liquid securities to help ensure that
exit strategies remain available under different market conditions.

                                      24



   Investment Process. NIAC begins with a quantitative screening of other debt
instruments to identify investment candidates with favorable capital
structures, and then factors in valuation and other equity market indicators.
NIAC screens this universe of securities for liquidity constraints and relative
value opportunities to determine investment candidates. Subsequently, the
investment team performs rigorous fundamental analysis to identify investments
with sound industry fundamentals, cash flow sufficiency and asset quality. The
final portfolio is constructed using proprietary risk factors and monitoring
systems to ensure proper diversification.

   Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. (Spectrum)

   Investment Philosophy. Spectrum's investment philosophy with respect to
preferred securities is centered on several underlying themes:

    .  High levels of current income are the primary return contributor to the
       total return potential of preferred securities.

    .  Investing in the subordinated preferred securities of stronger,
       solidly-rated issuers is potentially more advantageous than owning the
       senior debt of weaker, potentially deteriorating issuers.

    .  Investment grade quality preferred securities, over time, present an
       attractive risk/return opportunity.

    .  Diversifying across a large number of different industries and issuers
       helps insulate an overall portfolio of preferred securities from events
       that affect any particular company or sector.

    .  Inefficiencies in the preferred securities market, particularly in the
       pricing and trading of securities, can create opportunities to enhance
       portfolio value.

   Investment Process. Spectrum's investment process begins with macroeconomic
and fundamental credit analysis to identify sectors, industries and companies
that are potential investments. In its fundamental analysis, Spectrum employs a
value-oriented style that considers the relative attractiveness of the security
to other preferred securities and to the same issuer's senior debt. In
addition, Spectrum evaluates the structural features of each security as well
as its liquidity. In its investment decisions, Spectrum also considers the
contribution of sectors and individual securities to the overall goal of
achieving a well-diversified portfolio.

    Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. (Froley, Revy)

   Investment Philosophy. Froley, Revy's investment philosophy with respect to
convertible securities is centered on the belief that convertible securities
are a total return vehicle that afford the opportunity to earn common
stock-like returns with substantially reduced risk relative to equities, while
providing some current income. The firm believes that focusing on the
mid-market sector of the convertible securities market (i.e., securities that
have both common stock-like and bond-like investment qualities) while investing
opportunistically in the bond-like and equity-like areas of the convertible
securities market may enhance total return potential. In addition, the firm
believes that because of the hybrid nature of convertible securities, research
that emphasizes both fundamental credit analysis and equity valuation analysis
can help identify investment opportunities with the greatest potential for
enhancing a portfolio's overall total return.

   Investment Process. Froley, Revy's investment process begins with screening
convertible securities on certain valuation and structural parameters,
including price, yield, premium, calls, equity sensitivity and other factors.
On this pool of potential investments, Froley, Revy then conducts credit (bond)

                                      25



analysis and valuation (equity) analysis to identify what it believes to be the
most attractive candidates within the universe. Additional inputs into the
sector and security selection decisions are top down, macroeconomic analysis of
economic, interest rate and other trends and the analysis of the structural
characteristics of the individual securities.

   Froley, Revy monitors all securities and sectors on an on-going basis to
identify those that fall outside the intended investment range. Positions in
securities that have increased in value and common stock-like qualities may be
reduced to normal position weights or sold entirely based on the fundamental
outlook for the underlying equity. In addition, Froley, Revy considers
significant declines from the purchase prices of securities in determining
whether to purchase or sell a particular security.

Portfolio Composition

   The Fund's portfolio will be composed principally of the following
investments. A more detailed description of the Fund's investment policies and
restrictions and more detailed information about the Fund's portfolio
investments are contained in the Statement of Additional Information.

   Preferred Securities.  Preferred securities generally pay fixed or
adjustable rate dividends to investors, and have a "preference" over common
stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of a company's assets.
This means that a company must pay dividends on preferred stock before paying
any dividends on its common stock. Preferred stockholders usually have no right
to vote for corporate directors or on other matters. The Fund intends that all
of the preferred securities in which it will invest will be investment grade
quality at the time of investment. The average call protection of the Fund's
portfolio allocated to preferred securities is expected to be approximately
three to four years.

   The Fund intends to invest at least 25% of its Managed Assets in the
securities of companies principally engaged in financial services, which are
prominent issuers of preferred securities, and is subject to the risks of such
concentration. See "--Financial Services Company Securities."


   Taxable Preferred Securities.  The Fund intends that most or all of the
preferred securities in which it invests will be fully taxable and will not pay
dividends that qualify for the Dividends Received Deduction or treatment as
"qualified dividend income." Pursuant to the Dividends Received Deduction,
corporations may generally deduct 70% of the dividend income they receive.
Noncorporate shareholders are generally entitled to reduced tax rates on
"qualified dividend income." Corporate shareholders of a regulated investment
company like the Fund generally are permitted to claim a deduction with respect
to that portion of their distributions attributable to amounts received by the
regulated investment company that qualify for the Dividends Received Deduction.
Similarly, noncorporate shareholders are generally entitled to treat as
"qualified dividend income" a portion of their distribution attributable to
"qualified dividend income" received by the regulated investment company.
Taxable preferred securities that do not pay dividends eligible for the
Dividends Received Deduction or treatment as "qualified dividend income" (often
referred to as "hybrid" preferred securities) typically offer additional yield
spread versus other types of preferred securities due to this lack of special
tax treatment.


   Taxable preferred securities are a comparatively new asset class. Taxable
preferred securities are typically issued by corporations, generally in the
form of interest-bearing notes or preferred securities, or by an affiliated
business trust of a corporation, generally in the form of beneficial interests
in subordinated debentures or similarly structured securities. The taxable
preferred securities market consists of both fixed and adjustable coupon rate
securities that are either perpetual in nature or have

                                      26



stated maturity dates. The taxable preferred securities market is divided into
the "$25 par" and the "institutional" segments. The $25 par segment is typified
by securities that are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, which trade and
are quoted "flat", i.e., without accrued dividend income, and which are
typically callable at the issuer's option at par value five years after their
original issuance date. The institutional segment is typified by $1,000 par
value securities that are not exchange-listed, which trade and are quoted on an
"accrued income" basis, and which typically have a minimum of 10 years of call
protection (at premium prices) from the date of their original issuance.

   Taxable preferred securities are typically junior and fully subordinated
liabilities of an issuer or the beneficiary of a guarantee that is junior and
fully subordinated to the other liabilities of the guarantor. In addition,
taxable preferred securities typically permit an issuer to defer the payment of
interest for eighteen months or more without triggering an event of default.
Generally, the deferral period is five years or more. Because of their
subordinated position in the capital structure of an issuer, the ability to
defer payments for extended periods of time without adverse consequence to the
issuer, and certain other features (such as restrictions on common dividend
payments by the issuer or ultimate guarantor when cumulative payments on the
taxable preferred securities have not been made), these taxable preferred
securities are often treated as close substitutes for traditional preferred
securities, both by issuers and investors. Taxable preferred securities have
many of the key characteristics of equity due to their subordinated position in
an issuer's capital structure and because their quality and value are heavily
dependent on the profitability of the issuer rather than on any legal claims to
specific assets or cash flows.

   Taxable preferred securities include, but are not limited to:/(1)/

  .  trust originated preferred securities ("TOPRS(R)");

  .  monthly income preferred securities ("MIPS(R)");

  .  quarterly income bond securities ("QUIBS(R)");

  .  quarterly income debt securities ("QUIDS(R)");

  .  quarterly income preferred securities ("QUIPS/SM/");

  .  corporate trust securities ("CORTS(R)");

  .  public income notes ("PINES(R)"); and

  .  other trust preferred securities.
--------
(1)TOPRS is a registered service mark owned by Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. MIPS
   and QUIDS are registered service marks and QUIPS is a service mark owned by
   Goldman, Sachs & Co. QUIBS is a registered service mark owned by Morgan
   Stanley Dean Witter & Co. CORTS and PINES are registered service marks owned
   by Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

   Taxable preferred securities are typically issued with a final maturity
date, although some are perpetual in nature. In certain instances, a final
maturity date may be extended and/or the final payment of principal may be
deferred at the issuer's option for a specified time without any adverse
consequence to the issuer. No redemption can typically take place unless all
cumulative payment obligations have been met, although issuers may be able to
engage in open-market repurchases without regard to any cumulative dividends
payable. A portion of the portfolio may include investments in non-cumulative
preferred securities, whereby the issuer does not have an obligation to make up
any arrearages to its shareholders. Should an issuer default on its obligations
under such a security, the amount of dividends the Fund pays may be adversely
affected.

                                      27




   Many taxable preferred securities are issued by trusts or other special
purpose entities established by operating companies and are not a direct
obligation of an operating company. At the time a trust or special purpose
entity sells its preferred securities to investors, the trust or special
purpose entity purchases debt of the operating company (with terms comparable
to those of the trust or special purpose entity securities), which enables the
operating company to deduct for tax purposes the interest paid on the debt held
by the trust or special purpose entity. The trust or special purpose entity is
generally required to be treated as transparent for federal income tax purposes
such that the holders of the taxable preferred securities are treated as owning
beneficial interests in the underlying debt of the operating company.
Accordingly, payments on the taxable preferred securities are treated as
interest rather than dividends for federal income tax purposes and, as such,
are not eligible for the Dividends Received Deduction or treatment as
"qualified dividend income." The trust or special purpose entity in turn would
be a holder of the operating company's debt and would have priority with
respect to the operating company's earnings and profits over the operating
company's common shareholders, but would typically be subordinated to other
classes of the operating company's debt. Typically a taxable preferred share
has a rating that is slightly below that of its corresponding operating
company's senior debt securities.


   Convertible Securities.  Convertible securities are bonds, debentures,
notes, preferred securities or other securities that may be converted or
exchanged (by the holder or the issuer) into shares of the underlying common
stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio or
predetermined price (the "conversion price"). Convertible securities have
general characteristics similar to both debt securities and common stocks. The
interest paid on convertible securities may be fixed or floating rate. Floating
rate convertible securities may specify an interest rate or rates that are
conditioned upon changes to the market price of the underlying common stock.
Convertible securities also may be issued in zero coupon form with an original
issue discount. See "Risks-Convertible Security Risk." Although to a lesser
extent than with debt securities, the market value of convertible securities
tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase
as interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion feature, the
market value of convertible securities tends to vary with fluctuations in the
market value of the underlying common stocks and, therefore, will also react to
the variations in the general market for common stocks. Depending upon the
relationship of the conversion price to the market value of the underlying
common stock, a convertible security may trade more like a common stock than a
debt instrument.

   Mandatory convertible securities are distinguished as a subset of
convertible securities because they may be called for conversion by the issuer
after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including at a
specified price) established upon its issuance. If a mandatory convertible
security is called for conversion, the Fund will be required to either convert
it into the underlying common stock or sell it to a third party.

   Convertible securities are investments that typically provide for a stable
stream of income with generally higher yields than common stocks. There can be
no assurance of current income because the issuers of the convertible
securities may default on their obligations. The convertible securities in
which the Fund may invest may be below investment grade quality. See "--High
Yield Securities."

   Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields
than non-convertible securities of similar credit quality because of the
potential for capital appreciation. A convertible security, in addition to
providing current income, offers the potential for capital appreciation through
the conversion feature, which enables the holder to benefit from any increases
in the market price of the underlying common stock.

                                      28



   Synthetic Convertible Securities.  Although the Fund does not currently
intend to invest in synthetic convertible securities, it may invest up to 10%
of its Managed Assets in such securities. Synthetic convertible securities
possess the two principal characteristics of a true convertible security, i.e.,
a fixed-income security ("fixed-income component") and the right to acquire an
equity security ("equity component"). If the Fund invests in synthetic
convertible securities, it is expected that the Fund will invest in such
synthetic convertible securities that are created by third parties, typically
investment banks or other financial institutions. Synthetic convertible
securities created by other parties typically trade as a single security with a
unitary value, similar to a true convertible security. The Fund may also invest
in synthetic convertible securities by acquiring separate securities, one
possessing a fixed-income component and the other possessing an equity
component. The fixed-income component is achieved by investing in
non-convertible, fixed-income securities such as bonds, debentures, notes,
preferred stocks and money market instruments. The equity component is achieved
by investing in warrants or options to buy common stock at a certain exercise
price, or options on a common stock index. The fixed-income and equity
components of such a synthetic convertible security may be issued separately by
different issuers and at different times. Unlike a true convertible security or
a synthetic convertible security created by third parties, each of which is a
single security having a unitary market value, a synthetic convertible security
that is comprised of two or more separate securities will have a "market value"
that is the sum of the values of its fixed-income component and its equity
component. For this reason, the value of such a synthetic convertible security
may respond differently to market fluctuations than would a true convertible
security or synthetic convertible security created by a third party. The Fund's
holdings of synthetic convertible securities, including those created by third
parties, are considered convertible securities for purposes of the Fund's
policy to invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in preferred securities and
convertible securities and the maximum and minimum allocations to preferred
securities and convertible securities set forth in "--Investment Objectives and
Policies" above.

   Warrants and Options on Securities and Indexes.  In connection with its
investments in synthetic convertible securities, the Fund may purchase
warrants, call options on common stock and call options on common stock
indexes. A warrant is a certificate that gives the holder of the warrant the
right to buy, at a specified time or specified times, from the issuer of the
warrant, the common stock of the issuer at a specified price. A call option is
a contract that gives the holder of the option, in return for a premium, the
right to buy from the writer of the option the common stock underlying the
option (or the cash value of the common stock index) at a specified exercise
price at any time during the term of the option.

   Other Debt Instruments.  The Fund may invest in other debt instruments
including, but not limited to, corporate bonds, notes and debentures and other
similar types of corporate debt instruments, including corporate loans. The
form of such other debt instruments may include zero coupon bonds,
payment-in-kind securities and structured notes. The debt instruments in which
the Fund may invest may be below investment grade quality. See "--High Yield
Securities." The Fund may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in these types
of other debt securities, as described in more detail below.

   Corporate Bonds.  Corporate bonds generally are used by corporations as well
as governments and other issuers to borrow money from investors. The issuer
pays the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest and normally must repay
the amount borrowed on or before maturity.

                                      29



   Corporate Loans.   The Fund may invest (i) in loans made by banks or other
financial institutions to corporate issuers or (ii) participation interests in
such loans. Corporate loans generally bear interest at rates set at a margin
above a generally recognized base lending rate that may fluctuate on a
day-to-day basis, in the case of the prime rate of a U.S. bank. Consequently,
the value of corporate loans held by the Fund may be expected to fluctuate
significantly less than the value of other fixed rate high yield instruments as
a result of changes in the interest rate environment. On the other hand, the
secondary dealer market for certain corporate loans may not be as well
developed as the secondary dealer market for high yield debt and, therefore,
presents increased market risk relating to liquidity and pricing concerns. By
purchasing a participation interest in a loan, the Fund acquires some or all of
the interest of a bank or other financial institution in a loan to a corporate
borrower. Purchasing a participation in a corporate loan typically will result
in the Fund having a contractual relationship with the lender, not the
borrower. In this instance, the Fund would have the right to receive payments
of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the
lender selling the participation and only upon receipt by the lender of the
payments from the borrower. If the Fund only acquires a participation in a loan
made by a third party, the Fund may not be able to control the exercise of any
remedies that the lender would have under the corporate loan.

   Zero Coupon Bonds and Payment-In-Kind Securities.  A zero coupon bond is a
bond that does not pay interest either for the entire life of the obligation or
for an initial period after the issuance of the obligation. When held to its
maturity, its return comes from the difference between the purchase price and
its maturity value. Payment-in-kind securities ("PIKs") are debt obligations
that pay "interest" or dividends in the form of additional securities of the
issuer, instead of in cash. Each of these instruments is normally issued and
traded at a deep discount from face value. Zero-coupon bonds and PIKs allow an
issuer to avoid or delay the need to generate cash to meet current interest
payments and, as a result, may involve greater credit risk than bonds that pay
interest currently or in cash. The Fund would be required to distribute the
income on any of these instruments as it accrues, even though the Fund will not
receive all of the income on a current basis or in cash. Thus, the Fund may
have to sell other investments, including when it may not be advisable to do
so, to make income distributions to its shareholders.

   Structured Notes.  The Fund may utilize structured notes and similar
instruments for investment purposes and also for hedging purposes. Structured
notes are privately negotiated debt obligations where the principal and/or
interest is determined by reference to the performance of a benchmark asset,
market or interest rate (an "embedded index"), such as selected securities, an
index of securities or specified interest rates, or the differential
performance of two assets or markets. The terms of such structured instruments
normally provide that their principal and/or interest payments are to be
adjusted upwards or downwards (but not ordinarily below zero) to reflect
changes in the embedded index while the structured instruments are outstanding.
As a result, the interest and/or principal payments that may be made on a
structured product may vary widely, depending on a variety of factors,
including the volatility of the embedded index and the effect of changes in the
embedded index on principal and/or interest payments. The rate of return on
structured notes may be determined by applying a multiplier to the performance
or differential performance of the referenced index(es) or other asset(s).
Application of a multiplier involves leverage that will serve to magnify the
potential for gain and the risk of loss.

   No Inverse Floating Rate Securities.  The Fund will not invest in inverse
floating rate securities, which are securities that pay interest at rates that
vary inversely with changes in prevailing interest rates and which represent a
leveraged investment in an underlying security.

                                      30



   High Yield Securities.  The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets
in securities that, at the time of investment, are not investment grade
quality. The Fund will only invest in securities that, at the time of
investment, are rated B or higher by at least one NRSRO or that are unrated but
judged to be of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the
investment, except, however, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its Managed Assets
in securities with a highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but judged to be
of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the investment. Below
investment grade quality securities are regarded as having predominately
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal, and are commonly referred to as junk bonds. Issuers of high yield
securities may be highly leveraged and may not have available to them more
traditional methods of financing. The prices of these lower grade securities
typically are more sensitive to negative developments, such as a decline in the
issuer's revenues or a general economic downturn, than the prices of higher
grade securities. The secondary market for high yield securities may not be as
liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated securities, a factor which
may have an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to dispose of a particular
security. There are fewer dealers in the market for high yield securities than
for investment grade obligations. The prices quoted by different dealers may
vary significantly and the spread between the bid and ask price is generally
much larger than for higher quality instruments. Under adverse market or
economic conditions, the secondary market for high yield securities could
contract further, independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition
of a particular issuer, and these instruments may become illiquid. As a result,
the Fund could find it more difficult to sell these securities or may be able
to sell the securities only at prices lower than if such securities were widely
traded. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities
under these circumstances may be less than the prices used in calculating the
Fund's net asset value.

   Non-U.S. Securities.  The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets in
securities of non-U.S. issuers. Subject to this 35% limitation, up to 10% of
the Fund's Managed Assets may be invested in securities that are denominated in
Japanese yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros and which may be
offered, traded or listed in markets other than U.S. markets. The remainder of
the Fund's Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of non-U.S.
issuers will be invested in U.S. dollar denominated securities offered, traded
or listed in U.S. markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more
than 20% of its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers and does not
currently intend to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities
described above. The Fund may invest in any region of the world and invest in
companies operating in developed countries such as Canada, Japan, Australia,
New Zealand and most Western European countries. The Fund does not intend to
invest in companies based in emerging markets such as the Far East, Latin
America and Eastern Europe. The World Bank and other international agencies
define emerging markets based on such factors as trade initiatives, per capita
income and level of industrialization. For purposes of the 35% limitation
described above, non-U.S. securities include securities represented by American
Depository Receipts.

   Financial Services Company Securities.  The Fund intends to invest at least
25% of its Managed Assets in securities issued by companies "principally
engaged" in financial services. A company is "principally engaged" in financial
services if it has financial services-related businesses that generate at least
50% of its revenues. Companies in the financial services sector include
commercial banks, industrial banks, savings institutions, finance companies,
diversified financial services companies, investment banking firms, securities
brokerage houses, investment advisory companies, leasing companies, insurance
companies and companies providing similar services.

                                      31



   Common Stocks.  The Fund does not intend to purchase common stock as part of
its investment strategy. The Fund will have exposure to common stock risks by
virtue of the equity component of the convertible securities in which the Fund
invests. The Fund may hold common stocks in its portfolio upon conversion of a
convertible security, such holdings not normally to exceed 5% of its Managed
Assets. In addition, in keeping with the income focus of the Fund, the Fund
expects to sell any common stock holdings as soon as practicable after
conversion of a convertible security. Common stock generally represents an
ownership interest in an issuer. Although common stocks historically have
generated higher average returns than fixed-income securities, common stocks
also have experienced significantly more volatility in those returns. An
adverse event, such as an unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of
a particular common stock held by the Fund. Also, prices of common stocks are
sensitive to general movements in the stock market. A drop in the stock market
may depress the prices of common stocks held by the Fund or to which it has
exposure.

   Hedging Transactions.  The Fund may use derivatives or other transactions
for the purpose of hedging the portfolio's exposure to the risk of increases in
interest rates, common stock risk, high yield credit risk and foreign currency
exchange rate risk. The specific derivative instruments to be used, or other
transactions to be entered into, each for hedging purposes may include
(i) options and futures contracts, including options on common stock, stock
indexes, bonds and bond indexes, stock index futures, bond index futures and
related instruments, (ii) short sales of securities that the Fund owns or has
the right to acquire through the conversion of securities, (iii) structured
notes and similar instruments, (iv) credit derivative instruments and
(v) currency exchange transactions. Some, but not all, of the derivative
instruments may be traded and listed on an exchange. The positions in
derivatives will be marked-to-market daily at the closing price established on
the exchange or at a fair value. Except for investing in synthetic convertible
securities, the Fund will use derivatives or other transactions described in
this paragraph solely for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio risks. See
"Risks--Hedging Risk," "Risks--Counterparty Risk," "--Synthetic Convertible
Securities" and "Other Investment Policies and Techniques" in the Fund's
Statement of Additional Information for further information on hedging
transactions.

   Illiquid Securities.  The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed Assets in
securities that, at the time of investment, are illiquid (i.e., securities that
are not readily marketable), however, initially, the Fund does not intend to
invest more than 5% of its Managed Assets in such securities. All securities
and other instruments in which the Fund invests will be subject to the 10%
limitation referred to above to the extent they are deemed to be illiquid. For
this purpose, illiquid securities may include, but are not limited to,
restricted securities (securities the disposition of which is restricted under
the federal securities laws), securities that may only be resold pursuant to
Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"),
that are deemed to be illiquid, and repurchase agreements with maturities in
excess of seven days. The Board of Trustees or its delegate has the ultimate
authority to determine, to the extent permissible under the federal securities
laws, which securities are liquid or illiquid for purposes of this 10%
limitation. The Board of Trustees has delegated to the Advisers the day-to-day
determination of the illiquidity of any security held by the Fund, although it
has retained oversight and ultimate responsibility for such determinations.
Although no definitive liquidity criteria are used, the Board of Trustees has
directed the Advisers to look for such factors as (i) the nature of the market
for a security (including the institutional private resale market; the
frequency of trades and quotes for the security; the number of dealers willing
to purchase or sell the security; the amount of time normally needed to dispose
of the security; and the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of
transfer), (ii) the terms of certain securities or other instruments allowing
for the disposition to a third party or the issuer thereof (e.g., certain
repurchase obligations and demand instruments), and (iii) other relevant
factors.

                                      32



   Restricted securities may be sold only in privately negotiated transactions
or in a public offering with respect to which a registration statement is in
effect under the Securities Act. Where registration is required, the Fund may
be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expenses and a considerable
period may elapse between the time of the decision to sell and the time the
Fund may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration
statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop,
the Fund might obtain a less favorable price than that which prevailed when it
decided to sell. Illiquid securities will be priced at fair value as determined
in good faith by the Board of Trustees or its delegate. If, through the
appreciation of illiquid securities or the depreciation of liquid securities,
the Fund should be in a position where more than 10% of the value of its
Managed Assets is invested in illiquid securities, including restricted
securities that are not readily marketable, the Fund will take such steps as
are deemed advisable, if any, to protect liquidity.

   Short-Term/Long-Term Debt Securities; Defensive Position; Invest-Up
Period.  Upon an Adviser's recommendation and during temporary defensive
periods or in order to keep the Fund's cash fully invested, including the
period during which the net proceeds of the offering of Common Shares or
FundPreferred shares are being invested, the Fund may deviate from its
investment objectives and invest all or any portion of its assets in investment
grade debt securities. In such a case, the Fund may not pursue or achieve its
investment objectives. In addition, during the temporary periods when the net
proceeds of the offering of Common Shares or FundPreferred shares are being
invested, the Fund may invest all or a portion of its assets in debt securities
of long-term maturities issued by the U.S. Government or its agencies or
instrumentalities.

   When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Transactions.  The Fund may buy and sell
securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, making payment or taking
delivery at a later date, normally within 15 to 45 days of the trade date. This
type of transaction may involve an element of risk because no interest accrues
on the securities prior to settlement and, because securities are subject to
market fluctuations, the value of the securities at time of delivery may be
less (or more) than cost. A separate account of the Fund will be established
with its custodian consisting of cash equivalents or liquid securities having a
market value at all times at least equal to the amount of the commitment.

   Other Investment Companies.  The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed
Assets in securities of other open- or closed-end investment companies that
invest primarily in securities of the types in which the Fund may invest
directly, or short-term debt securities. The Fund generally expects to invest
in other investment companies either during periods when it has large amounts
of uninvested cash, such as the period shortly after the Fund receives the
proceeds of the offering of its Common Shares or FundPreferred shares, or
during periods when there is a shortage of attractive securities of the types
in which the Fund may invest in directly available in the market. As an
investor in an investment company, the Fund will bear its ratable share of that
investment company's expenses, and would remain subject to payment of the
Fund's advisory and administrative fees with respect to assets so invested.
Common Shareholders would therefore be subject to duplicative expenses to the
extent the Fund invests in other investment companies. The Advisers will take
expenses into account when evaluating the investment merits of an investment in
the investment company relative to available securities of the types in which
the Fund may invest directly. In addition, the securities of other investment
companies also may be leveraged and therefore will be subject to the same
leverage risks described herein. As described in the section entitled "Risks,"
the net asset value and market value of leveraged shares will be more volatile
and the yield to shareholders will tend to fluctuate more than the yield
generated by unleveraged shares.

                                      33



   Initial Portfolio Composition.  If current market conditions persist, the
Fund expects that its initial portfolio of preferred securities, convertible
securities and other debt instruments will be comprised of securities with the
following ratings, or in unrated securities judged by the Adviser responsible
for the investment to be of comparable credit quality: 5% in AA or better, 35%
in A, 35% in Baa/BBB, 15% in Ba/BB and 10% in B. Initially, the Fund intends to
invest approximately 75% of its Managed Assets in investment grade quality
securities. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more than 5% of its
Managed Assets in illiquid securities or more than 20% of its Managed Assets in
securities of non-U.S. issuers. In addition, the Fund does not currently intend
to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities described in this
Prospectus. The Fund also intends that all of the preferred securities in which
it will invest will be investment grade quality at the time of investment. The
Fund's intentions may change over time based on market and other conditions
beyond the Fund's control and there can be no assurance that the parameters of
the initial portfolio composition as described above will be achieved.

   Lending of Portfolio Securities.  The Fund may lend its portfolio securities
to broker-dealers and banks. Any such loan must be continuously secured by
collateral in cash or cash equivalents maintained on a current basis in an
amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned by the Fund.
The Fund would continue to receive the equivalent of the interest or dividends
paid by the issuer on the securities loaned, and would also receive an
additional return that may be in the form of a fixed fee or a percentage of the
collateral. The Fund may pay reasonable fees to persons unaffiliated with the
Fund for services in arranging these loans. The Fund would have the right to
call the loan and obtain the securities loaned at any time on notice of not
more than five business days. The Fund would not have the right to vote the
securities during the existence of the loan but would call the loan to permit
voting of the securities, if, in an Adviser's judgment, a material event
requiring a shareholder vote would otherwise occur before the loan was repaid.
In the event of bankruptcy or other default of the borrower, the Fund could
experience both delays in liquidating the loan collateral or recovering the
loaned securities and losses, including (a) possible decline in the value of
the collateral or in the value of the securities loaned during the period while
the Fund seeks to enforce its rights thereto, (b) possible subnormal levels of
income and lack of access to income during this period, and (c) expenses of
enforcing its rights.

   Portfolio Turnover.  The Fund may engage in portfolio trading when
considered appropriate, but short-term trading will not be used as the primary
means of achieving the Fund's investment objectives. Although the Fund cannot
accurately predict its annual portfolio turnover rate, it is not expected to
exceed 75% under normal circumstances. However, there are no limits on the rate
of portfolio turnover, and investments may be sold without regard to length of
time held when, in the opinion of an Adviser, investment considerations warrant
such action. A higher portfolio turnover rate results in correspondingly
greater brokerage commissions and other transactional expenses that are borne
by the Fund. High portfolio turnover may result in the realization of net
short-term capital gains by the Fund which, when distributed to shareholders,
will be taxable as ordinary income. See "Tax Matters."

                                      34



                                USE OF LEVERAGE

   The Fund, if market conditions are deemed favorable, likely will use
leverage by issuing FundPreferred shares, commercial paper or notes and/or
borrowing in an aggregate amount of approximately 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital
after such issuance and/or borrowing. Unless and until the Fund uses leverage,
this section will not apply.

   The Fund intends to apply for ratings for the FundPreferred shares from a
NRSRO (most likely Moody's, S&P and/or Fitch). The Fund presently anticipates
that any FundPreferred shares that it intends to issue initially would be given
ratings of at least AA/Aa by such NRSROs as Moody's ("Aa"), S&P ("AA") or Fitch
("AA").

   Subject to market conditions and the Fund's receipt of at least a AA/Aa
credit rating on FundPreferred shares, within approximately one and one-half to
two months after the completion of the offering of the Common Shares, the Fund
intends to offer FundPreferred shares representing approximately 33 1/3% of the
Fund's capital immediately after their issuance. FundPreferred shares will have
seniority over the Common Shares. The issuance of FundPreferred shares will
leverage the Common Shares. Any Borrowings would also leverage, and have
seniority over, the Common Shares. There is no assurance that the Fund's
leveraging strategy will be successful.

   Changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio securities, including costs
attributable to FundPreferred shares or Borrowings, will be borne entirely by
the Common Shareholders. If there is a net decrease (or increase) in the value
of the Fund's investment portfolio, the leverage will decrease (or increase)
the net asset value per Common Share to a greater extent than if the Fund were
not leveraged. During periods in which the Fund uses leverage, the fees paid to
NIAC (and to the Subadvisers) for advisory services will be higher than if the
Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid will be calculated on the basis
of the Fund's Managed Assets.

   Under the 1940 Act, the Fund is not permitted to issue its own preferred
shares unless immediately after the issuance the value of the Fund's asset
coverage is at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding preferred
shares (i.e., such liquidation value may not exceed 50% of the Fund's asset
coverage less liabilities other than borrowings). In addition, the Fund is not
permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on its Common
Shares unless, at the time of such declaration, the value of the Fund's asset
coverage less liabilities other than borrowings is at least 200% of such
liquidation value. If FundPreferred shares are issued, the Fund intends, to the
extent possible, to purchase or redeem FundPreferred shares from time to time
to the extent necessary in order to maintain coverage of any FundPreferred
shares of at least 200%. If FundPreferred shares are outstanding, two of the
Fund's trustees will be elected by the holders of FundPreferred shares, voting
separately as a class. The remaining trustees of the Fund will be elected by
holders of Common Shares and FundPreferred shares voting together as a single
class. In the event the Fund failed to pay dividends on FundPreferred shares
for two years, FundPreferred shares would be entitled to elect a majority of
the trustees of the Fund. The failure to pay dividends or make distributions
could result in the Fund ceasing to qualify as a regulated investment company
under the Code, which could have a material adverse effect on the value of the
Common Shares.

   Under the 1940 Act, the Fund generally is not permitted to issue commercial
paper or notes or borrow unless immediately after the borrowing or commercial
paper or note issuance the value of the Fund's total assets less liabilities
other than the principal amount represented by commercial paper,

                                      35



notes or borrowings, is at least 300% of such principal amount. In addition,
the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on
its Common Shares unless, at the time of such declaration, the value of the
Fund's total assets, less liabilities other than the principal amount
represented by commercial paper, notes or borrowings, is at least 300% of such
principal amount. If the Fund borrows, the Fund intends, to the extent
possible, to prepay all or a portion of the principal amount of any outstanding
commercial paper, notes or borrowing to the extent necessary in order to
maintain the required asset coverage. Failure to maintain certain asset
coverage requirements could result in an event of default and entitle the debt
holders to elect a majority of the Board of Trustees.

   The Fund may be subject to certain restrictions imposed by either guidelines
of one or more NRSROs that may issue ratings for FundPreferred shares or, if
the Fund borrows from a lender, by the lender. These guidelines may impose
asset coverage or portfolio composition requirements that are more stringent
than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. It is not anticipated that
these covenants or guidelines will impede the Advisers from managing the Fund's
portfolio in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives and policies. In
addition to other considerations, to the extent that the Fund believes that the
covenants and guidelines required by the NRSROs would impede its ability to
meet its investment objectives, or if the Fund is unable to obtain the rating
on FundPreferred shares (expected to be at least AA/Aa), the Fund will not
issue FundPreferred shares.

   Assuming that FundPreferred shares or Borrowings will represent in the
aggregate approximately 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital and pay dividends or
interest or a payment rate set by an interest rate transaction at an annual
average rate of 3.25%, the income generated by the Fund's portfolio (net of
estimated expenses) must exceed 1.08% in order to cover such dividend payments
or interest or payment rates and other expenses specifically related to
FundPreferred shares or Borrowings. Of course, these numbers are merely
estimates, used for illustration. Actual FundPreferred share dividend rates,
interest or payment rates may vary frequently and may be significantly higher
or lower than the rate estimated above.

   The following table is furnished in response to requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. It is designed to illustrate the effect of
leverage on Common Share total return, assuming investment portfolio total
returns (comprised of income and changes in the value of investments held in
the Fund's portfolio net of expenses) of -10%, -5%, 0%, 5% and 10%. These
assumed investment portfolio returns are hypothetical figures and are not
necessarily indicative of the investment portfolio returns expected to be
experienced by the Fund. The table further reflects the issuance of
FundPreferred shares or Borrowings representing approximately 33 1/3% of the
Fund's total capital, and the Fund's currently projected annual FundPreferred
share dividend rate, borrowing interest rate or payment rate set by an interest
rate transaction of 3.25%. See "Risks--Leverage Risk."


                                                         
  Assumed Portfolio Total Return (Net of
    Expenses)........................... (10.00)% (5.00)%  0.00 % 5.00% 10.00%
  Common Share Total Return............. (16.63)% (9.13)% (1.63)% 5.88% 13.38%


   Common Share total return is comprised of two elements -- the Common Share
dividends paid by the Fund (the amount of which is largely determined by the
net investment income of the Fund after paying dividends on FundPreferred
shares) and gains or losses on the value of the securities the Fund owns. As
required by the Securities and Exchange Commission rules, the table assumes
that the Fund is more likely to suffer capital losses than to enjoy capital
appreciation.

                                      36



                             HEDGING TRANSACTIONS

   The Fund may use derivatives or other transactions for the purpose of
hedging a portion of its portfolio holdings or in connection with the Fund's
anticipated use of leverage through its sale of FundPreferred shares or
Borrowings.

   Portfolio Hedging Transactions.  The Fund may use derivatives or other
transactions for purposes of hedging the portfolio's exposure to the risk of
increases in interest rates, common stock risk, high yield credit risk and
foreign currency exchange rate risk. The specific derivative instruments to be
used, or other transactions to be entered into, each for hedging purposes may
include (i) options and futures contracts, including options on common stock,
stock indexes, bonds and bond indexes, stock index futures, bond index futures
and related instruments, (ii) short sales of securities that the Fund owns or
has the right to acquire through the conversion of securities, (iii) structured
notes and similar instruments, (iv) credit derivative instruments and (v)
currency exchange transactions. Some, but not all, of the derivative
instruments may be traded and listed on an exchange. The positions in
derivatives will be marked-to-market daily at the closing price established on
the relevant exchange or at a fair value. Except for investing in synthetic
convertible securities, the Fund will use derivatives or other transactions
described in this paragraph solely for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio
risks. See "The Fund's Investments--Portfolio Composition--Synthetic
Convertible Securities."

   There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of the
Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund, which
may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to
risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedging instruments is
subject to an Adviser's ability to predict correctly changes in the
relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings or
other factors, and there can be no assurance that an Adviser's judgment in this
respect will be correct. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might
result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted
for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings. In addition,
there can be no assurance that the Fund will enter into hedging or other
transactions at times or under circumstances in which it which it would be
advisable to do so. See "Risks--Hedging Risk."

   Options on Securities.  In order to hedge against adverse market shifts, the
Fund may purchase put and call options on stock, bonds or other securities. In
addition, the Fund may seek to hedge a portion of its portfolio investments
through writing (i.e., selling) covered put and call options. A put option
embodies the right of its purchaser to compel the writer of the option to
purchase from the option holder an underlying security or its equivalent at a
specified price at any time during the option period. In contrast, a call
option gives the purchaser the right to buy the underlying security covered by
the option or its equivalent from the writer of the option at the stated
exercise price at any time during the option period.

   As a holder of a put option, the Fund will have the right to sell the
securities underlying the option and as the holder of a call option, the Fund
will have the right to purchase the securities underlying the option, in each
case at their exercise price at any time prior to the option's expiration date.
The Fund may choose to exercise the options it holds, permit them to expire or
terminate them prior to their expiration by entering into closing sale or
purchase transactions. In entering into a closing sale transaction, the Fund
would sell an option of the same series as the one it has purchased. The
ability of the Fund to enter into a closing sale transaction with respect to
options purchased and to enter into a

                                      37



closing purchase transaction with respect to options sold depends on the
existence of a liquid secondary market. There can be no assurance that a
closing purchase or sale transaction can be effected when the Fund so desires.
The Fund's ability to terminate option positions established in the
over-the-counter market may be more limited than in the case of exchange-traded
options and may also involve the risk that securities dealers participating in
such transactions would fail to meet their obligations to the Fund.

   In purchasing a put option, the Fund will seek to benefit from a decline in
the market price of the underlying security, while in purchasing a call option,
the Fund will seek to benefit from an increase in the market price of the
underlying security. If an option purchased is not sold or exercised when it
has remaining value, or if the market price of the underlying security remains
equal to or greater than the exercise price, in the case of a put, or remains
equal to or below the exercise price, in the case of a call, during the life of
the option, the option will expire worthless. For the purchase of an option to
be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must decline
sufficiently below the exercise price, in the case of a put, and must increase
sufficiently above the exercise price, in the case of a call, to cover the
premium and transaction costs. Because option premiums paid by the Fund are
small in relation to the market value of the instruments underlying the
options, buying options can result in additional amounts of leverage to the
Fund. The leverage caused by trading in options could cause the Fund's net
asset value to be subject to more frequent and wider fluctuation than would be
the case if the Fund did not invest in options.

   The Fund will receive a premium when it writes put and call options, which
increases the Fund's return on the underlying security in the event the option
expires unexercised or is closed out at a profit. By writing a call, the Fund
will limit its opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value of
the underlying security above the exercise price of the option for as long as
the Fund's obligation as the writer of the option continues. Upon the exercise
of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss equal
to the difference between the price at which the Fund is required to purchase
the underlying security and its market value at the time of the option
exercise, less the premium received for writing the option. Upon the exercise
of a call option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss
equal to an amount not less than the excess of the security's market value at
the time of the option exercise over the Fund's acquisition cost of the
security, less the sum of the premium received for writing the option and the
difference, if any, between the call price paid to the Fund and the Fund's
acquisition cost of the security. Thus, in some periods the Fund might receive
less total return and in other periods greater total return from its hedged
positions than it would have received from its underlying securities unhedged.

   Options on Stock and Bond Indexes.  The Fund may purchase put and call
options on stock and bond indexes to hedge against risks of market-wide price
movements affecting its assets. In addition, the Fund may write covered put and
call options on stock and bond indexes. A stock or bond index measures the
movement of a certain group of stocks or bonds by assigning relative values to
the stocks or bonds included in the index. Options on a stock or bond index are
similar to options on securities. Because no underlying security can be
delivered, however, the option represents the holder's right to obtain from the
writer, in cash, a fixed multiple of the amount by which the exercise price
exceeds (in the case of a put) or is less than (in the case of a call) the
closing value of the underlying index on the exercise date. The advisability of
using stock or bond index options to hedge against the risk of market-wide
movements will depend on the extent of diversification of the Fund's
investments and the sensitivity of its investments to factors influencing the
underlying index. The effectiveness of

                                      38



purchasing or writing stock or bond index options as a hedging technique will
depend upon the extent to which price movements in the Fund's investments
correlate with price movements in the stock or bond index selected. In
addition, successful use by the Fund of options on stock or bond indexes will
be subject to the ability of an Adviser to predict correctly changes in the
relationship of the underlying index to the Fund's portfolio holdings. No
assurance can be given that the Adviser's judgment in this respect will be
correct.

   When the Fund writes an option on a stock or bond index, it will establish a
segregated account with its custodian in which the Fund will deposit liquid
securities in an amount equal to the market value of the option, and will
maintain the account while the option is open.

   Stock and Bond Index Futures Contracts.  The Fund may purchase and sell
stock index futures as a hedge against movements in the equity markets. Stock
and bond index futures contracts are agreements in which one party agrees to
deliver to the other an amount of cash equal to a specific dollar amount times
the difference between the value of a specific stock or bond index at the close
of the last trading day of the contract and the price at which the agreement is
made. No physical delivery of securities is made.

   For example, if an Adviser expects general stock or bond market prices to
decline, it might sell a futures contract on a particular stock or bond index.
If that index does in fact decline, the value of some or all of the securities
in the fund's portfolio may also be expected to decline, but that decrease
would be offset in part by the increase in the value of the Fund's position in
such futures contract. If, on the other hand, an Adviser expects general stock
or bond market prices to rise, it might purchase a stock or bond index futures
contract as a hedge against an increase in prices of particular securities it
wants ultimately to buy. If in fact the stock or bond index does rise, the
price of the particular securities intended to be purchased may also increase,
but that increase would be offset in part by the increase in the value of the
Fund's futures contract resulting from the increase in the index.

   Under regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission currently in
effect, which may change from time to time, with respect to futures contracts
purchased by the Fund, the Fund will set aside in a segregated account liquid
securities with a value at least equal to the value of instruments underlying
such futures contracts less the amount of initial margin on deposit for such
contracts. The current view of the staff of the Securities and Exchange
Commission is that the Fund's long and short positions in futures contracts
must be collateralized with cash or certain liquid assets held in a segregated
account or "covered" in order to counter the impact of any potential leveraging.

   There are several risks associated with the use of futures contracts and
futures options. A purchase or sale of a futures contract may result in losses
in excess of the amount invested in the futures contract. While the Fund may
enter into futures contracts and options on futures contracts for hedging
purposes, the use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts might
result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged
in any such transactions. There may be an imperfect correlation between the
Fund's portfolio holdings and futures contracts or options on futures contracts
entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the
intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. The degree of imperfection
of correlation depends on circumstances such as: variations in speculative
market demand for futures, futures options and the related securities,
including technical influences in futures and futures options trading and
differences between the securities markets and the securities underlying the
standard contracts available for trading. Further,

                                      39



the Fund's use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts to reduce
risk involves costs and will be subject to an Adviser's ability to predict
correctly changes in interest rate relationships or other factors.

   Short Sales.  The Fund may make short sales of securities if, at all times
when a short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of such
securities or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment
of any further consideration, securities of the same issuer as, and equal in
amount to, the securities sold short. This technique is called selling short
"against the box."

   In a short sale, the Fund will not deliver from its portfolio the securities
sold and will not receive immediately the proceeds from the short sale.
Instead, the Fund will borrow the securities sold short from a broker-dealer
through which the short sale is executed and the broker-dealer will deliver
such securities, on behalf of the Fund, to the purchaser of such securities.
Such broker-dealer will be entitled to retain the proceeds from the short sale
until the Fund delivers to such broker-dealer the securities sold short. In
addition, the Fund will be required to pay the broker-dealer the amount of any
dividends paid on shares sold short. Finally, to secure its obligation to
deliver to such broker-dealer the securities sold short, the Fund must deposit
and continuously maintain in a separate account with its custodian an
equivalent amount of the securities sold short or securities convertible into
or exchangeable for such securities without the payment of additional
consideration. The Fund is said to have a short position in the securities sold
until it delivers to the broker-dealer the securities sold, at which time the
Fund will receive the proceeds of the sale. Because the Fund ordinarily will
want to continue to hold securities in its portfolio that are sold short, the
Fund will normally close out a short position by purchasing on the open market
and delivering to the broker-dealer an equal amount of the securities sold
short, rather than by delivering portfolio securities.

   Short sales may protect the Fund against the risk of losses in the value of
its portfolio securities because any unrealized losses with respect to such
portfolio securities should be wholly or partially offset by a corresponding
gain in the short position. However, any potential gain in such portfolio
securities should be wholly or partially offset by a corresponding loss in the
short position. The extent to which such gains or losses are offset will depend
upon the amount of securities sold short relative to the amount the Fund owns,
either directly or indirectly, and, in the case where the Fund owns convertible
securities, changes in the conversion premium. The Fund will incur transaction
costs in connection with short sales.

   In addition to enabling the Fund to hedge against market risk, short sales
may afford the Fund an opportunity to earn additional current income to the
extent the Fund is able to enter into arrangements with broker-dealers through
which the short sales are executed to receive income with respect to the
proceeds of the short sales during the period the Fund's short positions remain
open.

   The Code imposes constructive sale treatment for federal income tax purposes
on certain hedging strategies with respect to appreciated financial positions.
Under these rules, taxpayers will recognize gain, but not loss, with respect to
securities if they enter into short sales or "offsetting notional principal
contracts" (as defined by the Code) with respect to, or futures or forward
contracts to deliver, the same or substantially identical property, or if they
enter into such transactions and then acquire the same or substantially
identical property. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to promulgate
regulations that will treat as constructive sales certain transactions that
have substantially the same effect as these transactions. See "Tax Matters."

                                      40



   Structured Notes.  The Fund may use structured notes and similar instruments
for hedging purposes. Structured notes are privately negotiated debt
obligations where the principal and/or interest is determined by reference to
the performance of a benchmark asset, market or interest rate (an "embedded
index"), such as selected securities, an index of securities or specified
interest rates or the differential performance of two assets or markets. The
terms of such structured instruments normally provide that their principal
and/or interest payments are to be adjusted upwards or downwards (but not
ordinarily below zero) to reflect changes in the embedded index while the
structured instruments are outstanding. As a result, the interest and/or
principal payments that may be made on a structured product may vary widely,
depending on a variety of factors, including the volatility of the embedded
index and the effect of changes in the embedded index on principal and/or
interest payments. The rate of return on structured notes may be determined by
applying a multiplier to the performance or differential performance of the
referenced index(es) or other asset(s). Application of a multiplier involves
leverage that will serve to magnify the potential for gain and the risk of loss.

   Credit Derivative Instruments.  The Fund may purchase credit derivative
instruments for the purpose of hedging the Fund's credit risk exposure to
certain issuers of securities that the Fund owns. For example, the Fund may
enter into credit swap default contracts for hedging purposes where the Fund
would be the buyer of such a contract. The Fund would be entitled to receive
the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt obligation from the
counterparty to the contract in the event of a default by a third party, such
as a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer, on the debt obligation. In return, the
Fund would pay to the counterparty a periodic stream of payments over the term
of the contract provided that no event of default has occurred. If no default
occurs, the Fund would have spent the stream of payments and received no
benefit from the contract.

   Currency Exchange Transactions.  The Fund may enter into currency exchange
transactions to hedge the Fund's exposure to foreign currency exchange rate
risk in the event the Fund invests in non-U.S. denominated securities of
non-U.S. issuers as described in this Prospectus. The Fund's currency
transactions will be limited to portfolio hedging involving portfolio
positions. Portfolio hedging is the use of a forward contract with respect to a
portfolio security position denominated or quoted in a particular currency. A
forward contract is an agreement to purchase or sell a specified currency at a
specified future date (or within a specified time period) and price set at the
time of the contract. Forward contracts are usually entered into with banks,
foreign exchange dealers or broker-dealers, are not exchange-traded, and are
usually for less than one year, but may be renewed.

   At the maturity of a forward contract to deliver a particular currency, the
Fund may either sell the portfolio security related to such contract and make
delivery of the currency, or it may retain the security and either acquire the
currency on the spot market or terminate its contractual obligation to deliver
the currency by purchasing an offsetting contract with the same currency trader
obligating it to purchase on the same maturity date the same amount of the
currency.

   It is impossible to forecast with absolute precision the market value of
portfolio securities at the expiration of a forward contract. Accordingly, it
may be necessary for the Fund to purchase additional currency on the spot
market (and bear the expense of such purchase) if the market value of the
security is less than the amount of currency that the Fund is obligated to
deliver and if a decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the
currency. Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on the spot market some of
the currency received upon the sale of the portfolio security if its market
value exceeds the amount of currency the Fund is obligated to deliver.

                                      41



   If the Fund retains the portfolio security and engages in an offsetting
transaction, the Fund will incur a gain or a loss to the extent that there has
been movement in forward contract prices. If the Fund engages in an offsetting
transaction, it may subsequently enter into a new forward contract to sell the
currency. Should forward prices decline during the period between the Fund's
entering into a forward contract for the sale of a currency and the date it
enters into an offsetting contract for the purchase of the currency, the Fund
will realize a gain to the extent the price of the currency it has agreed to
sell exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase. Should
forward prices increase, the Fund will suffer a loss to the extent the price of
the currency it has agreed to purchase exceeds the price of the currency it has
agreed to sell. A default on the contract would deprive the Fund of unrealized
profits or force the Fund to cover its commitments for purchase or sale of
currency, if any, at the current market price.

   Hedging against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate
fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities or prevent losses if the
prices of such securities decline. Such transactions also preclude the
opportunity for gain if the value of the hedged currency should rise. Moreover,
it may not be possible for the Fund to hedge against a devaluation that is so
generally anticipated that the Fund is not able to contract to sell the
currency at a price above the devaluation level it anticipates. The cost to the
Fund of engaging in currency exchange transactions varies with such factors as
the currency involved, the length of the contract period, and prevailing market
conditions. Since currency exchange transactions are usually conducted on a
principal basis, no fees or commissions are involved.

   The Fund also may invest in relatively new instruments without a significant
trading history for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio risks. See "Other
Investment Policies and Techniques" in the Fund's Statement of Additional
Information for further information on hedging transactions.

   Interest Rate Transactions.  In connection with the Fund's likely use of
leverage through its sale of FundPreferred shares or Borrowings, the Fund, if
market conditions are deemed favorable, likely will enter into interest rate
swap or cap transactions to attempt to protect itself from increasing dividend
or interest expenses on its FundPreferred shares or Borrowings. Interest rate
swaps involve the Fund's agreement with the swap counterparty to pay a fixed
rate payment in exchange for the counterparty agreeing to pay the Fund a
payment at a variable rate that is expected to approximate the rate on the
Fund's variable rate payment obligation on FundPreferred shares or any variable
rate Borrowings. The payment obligations would be based on the notional amount
of the swap.

   The Fund may use an interest rate cap, which would require it to pay a
premium to the cap counterparty and would entitle it, to the extent that a
specified variable rate index exceeds a predetermined fixed rate, to receive
from the counterparty payment of the difference based on the notional amount of
such cap. The Fund would use interest rate swaps or caps only with the intent
to reduce or eliminate the risk that an increase in short-term interest rates
could have on Common Share net earnings as a result of leverage.

   The Fund will usually enter into swaps or caps on a net basis; that is, the
two payment streams will be netted out in a cash settlement on the payment date
or dates specified in the instrument, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the
case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. The Fund intends to
maintain in a segregated account with its custodian cash or liquid securities
having a value at least equal to the Fund's net payment obligations under any
swap transaction, marked-to-market daily.

                                      42



   The use of interest rate swaps and caps is a highly specialized activity
that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated
with ordinary portfolio security transactions. Depending on the state of
interest rates in general, the Fund's use of interest rate swaps or caps could
enhance or harm the overall performance of the Common Shares. To the extent
that there is a decline in interest rates for maturities equal to the remaining
maturity on the Fund's fixed rate payment obligation under the interest rate
swap or equal to the remaining term of the interest rate cap, the value of the
swap or cap (which initially has a value of zero) could decline, and could
result in a decline in the net asset value of the Common Shares. If, on the
other hand, such rates were to increase, the value of the swap or cap could
increase, and thereby increase the net asset value of the Common Shares. As
interest rate swaps or caps approach their maturity, their positive or negative
value due to interest rate changes will approach zero.

   In addition, if the short-term interest rates effectively received by the
Fund during the term of an interest rate swap are lower than the Fund's fixed
rate of payment on the swap, the swap will increase the Fund's operating
expenses and reduce Common Share net earnings. For example, if the Fund were to
(A) issue FundPreferred shares representing 33 1/3% of the Fund's total capital
and (B) enter into one or more interest rate swaps in a notional amount equal
to 75% of its outstanding FundPreferred shares under which the Fund would
receive a short-term swap rate of 1.50% and pay a fixed swap rate of 3.50% over
the term of the swap, the swap would effectively increase Fund expenses and
reduce Fund Common Share net earnings by approximately .77% as a percentage of
net assets attributable to Common Shares and approximately .51% as a percentage
of Managed Assets. If, on the other hand, the short-term interest rates
effectively received by the Fund are higher than the Fund's fixed rate of
payment on the interest rate swap, the swap would enhance Common Share net
earnings. In either case, the swap would have the effect of reducing
fluctuations in the Fund's cost of leverage due to changes in short-term
interest rates during the term of the swap. The example above is purely for
illustrative purposes and is not predictive of the actual percentage of the
Fund's leverage that will be hedged by a swap, the actual fixed rates that the
Fund will pay under the swap (which will depend on market interest rates for
the applicable maturities at the time the Fund enters into swaps) or the actual
short-term rates that the Fund will receive on any swaps (which fluctuate
frequently during the term of the swap, and may change significantly from
initial levels), or the actual impact such swaps will have on the Fund's
expenses and Common Share net earnings.

   Buying interest rate caps could enhance the performance of the Common Shares
by providing a ceiling to all or part of the Fund's leverage expense during the
terms of the cap. Buying interest rate caps could also increase the operating
expenses of the Fund and decrease the net earnings of the Common Shares in the
event that the premium paid by the Fund to the counterparty exceeds the
additional amount the Fund would have been required to pay on its FundPreferred
shares or Borrowings due to increases in short-term interest rates during the
term of the cap had it not entered into the cap agreement.

   The Fund will not enter into interest rate swap or cap transactions in an
aggregate notional amount that exceeds the outstanding amount of the Fund's
leverage. The Fund has no current intention of selling an interest rate swap or
cap.

   Interest rate swaps and caps do not involve the delivery of securities or
other underlying assets or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with
respect to interest rate swaps is limited to the net amount of interest
payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to make. If the counterparty
defaults, the

                                      43



Fund would not be able to use the anticipated net receipts under the swap or
cap to offset the dividend payments on FundPreferred shares or interest
payments on Borrowings. Depending on whether the Fund would be entitled to
receive net payments from the counterparty on the swap or cap, which in turn
would depend on the general state of short-term interest rates at that point in
time, such a default could negatively impact the performance of the Common
Shares.

   Although this will not guarantee that the counterparty does not default, the
Fund will not enter into an interest rate swap or cap transaction with any
counterparty that NIAC believes does not have the financial resources to honor
its obligation under the interest rate swap or cap transaction. Further, NIAC
will regularly monitor the financial stability of a counterparty to an interest
rate swap or cap transaction in an effort to proactively protect the Fund's
investments.

   In addition, at the time the interest rate swap or cap transaction reaches
its scheduled termination date, there is a risk that the Fund will not be able
to obtain a replacement transaction or that the terms of the replacement will
not be as favorable as on the expiring transaction. If this occurs, it could
have a negative impact on the performance of the Common Shares.

   The Fund may choose or be required to redeem some or all FundPreferred
shares or prepay any Borrowings. This redemption would likely result in the
Fund seeking to terminate early all or a portion of any swap or cap
transaction. Such early termination of a swap could result in a termination
payment by or to the Fund. An early termination of a cap could result in a
termination payment to the Fund.

                                      44



                                     RISKS

   The Fund is a diversified, closed-end management investment company designed
primarily as a long-term investment and not as a trading vehicle. The Fund is
not intended to be a complete investment program and, due to the uncertainty
inherent in all investments, there can be no assurance that the Fund will
achieve its investment objectives. Your Common Shares at any point in time may
be worth less than your original investment, even after taking into account the
reinvestment of Fund dividends and distributions.

No Operating History

   The Fund is a newly organized, diversified, closed-end management investment
company and has no operating history.

Investment and Market Risk

   An investment in the Fund's Common Shares is subject to investment risk,
including the possible loss of the entire principal amount that you invest.
Your investment in Common Shares represents an indirect investment in the
securities owned by the Fund, most of which are traded on a national securities
exchange or in the over-the-counter markets. The value of these securities,
like other market investments, may move up or down, sometimes rapidly and
unpredictably.

   Your Common Shares at any point in time may be worth less than your original
investment, even after taking into account the reinvestment of Fund dividends
and distributions. The Fund likely will use leverage, which magnifies the stock
market and interest rate risks. See "Use of Leverage."

Interest Rate Risk


   Interest rate risk is the risk that fixed-income securities such as
preferred, convertible and other debt securities will decline in value because
of changes in market interest rates. When market interest rates rise, the
market value of such securities generally will fall. The Fund's investment in
such securities means that the net asset value and market price of Common
Shares will tend to decline if market interest rates rise. Market interest
rates currently are at historically low levels.


   During periods of declining interest rates, the issuer of a security may
exercise its option to prepay principal earlier than scheduled, forcing the
Fund to reinvest in lower yielding securities. This is known as call or
prepayment risk. Preferred and debt securities frequently have call features
that allow the issuer to repurchase the security prior to its stated maturity.
An issuer may redeem an obligation if the issuer can refinance the debt at a
lower cost due to declining interest rates or an improvement in the credit
standing of the issuer. During periods of rising interest rates, the average
life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower than
expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate,
increase the security's duration and reduce the value of the security. This is
known as extension risk. Market interest rates for investment grade
fixed-income securities have recently declined significantly below the recent
historical average rates for such securities. This decline may have increased
the risk that these rates will rise in the future (which would cause the value
of the Fund's net assets to decline) and the degree to which asset values may
decline in such event; however, historical interest rate levels are not
necessarily predictive of future interest rate levels.

                                      45



Credit Risk; Subordination

   Credit risk is the risk that a security in the Fund's portfolio will decline
in price or fail to make dividend or interest payments when due because the
issuer of the security experiences a decline in its financial status. Such
credit risk is generally greater for issuers of high yield securities. The Fund
may also invest in split-rated securities. Split-rated securities are those
securities that, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade by
Moody's, S&P or Fitch, so long as at least one NRSRO rates such securities
within the four highest grades. Split-rated securities are considered to be
investment grade quality securities, except that to the extent the Fund owns
split-rated securities that exceed 10% of its Managed Assets, the excess over
10% will not be considered to be investment grade quality. A split-rated
security may be regarded by one NRSRO (but by definition not by all NRSROs) as
having predominately speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer's
capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and accordingly subject to a
greater risk of default. The prices of split-rated securities, in the view of
one but not all NRSROs, may be more sensitive to negative developments, than
securities without a split-rating such as a decline in the issuer's revenues or
a general economic downturn.

   Preferred and convertible securities are typically subordinated to bonds and
other debt instruments in a company's capital structure, in terms of priority
to corporate income, and therefore will be subject to greater credit risk than
those debt instruments.

High Yield Risk

   The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at
the time of investment, are not investment grade quality. The Fund will only
invest in securities that, at the time of investment, are rated B or higher by
at least one NRSRO or that are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality
by the Adviser responsible for the investment, except, however, the Fund may
invest up to 5% of its Managed Assets in securities with a highest rating of
CCC or that are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Adviser
responsible for the investment. Securities of below investment grade quality
are regarded as having predominately speculative characteristics with respect
to capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and are commonly referred to
as junk bonds. Issuers of high yield securities may be highly leveraged and may
not have available to them more traditional methods of financing. The prices of
these lower grade securities are typically more sensitive to negative
developments, such as a decline in the issuer's revenues or a general economic
downturn, than are the prices of higher grade securities. The secondary market
for high yield securities may not be as liquid as the secondary market for more
highly rated securities, a factor which may have an adverse effect on the
Fund's ability to dispose of a particular security. There are fewer dealers in
the market for high yield securities than for investment grade obligations. The
prices quoted by different dealers may vary significantly and the spread
between the bid and ask price is generally much larger than for higher quality
instruments. Under adverse market or economic conditions, the secondary market
for high yield securities could contract further, independent of any specific
adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer, and these instruments
may become illiquid. As a result, the Fund could find it more difficult to sell
these securities or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower
than if such securities were widely traded. Prices realized upon the sale of
such lower rated or unrated securities, under these circumstances, may be less
than the prices used in calculating the Fund's net asset value.

Convertible Security Risk

   Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields
than non-convertible fixed-income securities of similar credit quality because
of the potential for capital appreciation. The market

                                      46



values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates increase
and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, a convertible
security's market value also tends to reflect the market price of the common
stock of the issuing company, particularly when the stock price is greater than
the convertible security's conversion price. The conversion price is defined as
the predetermined price or exchange ratio at which the convertible security can
be converted or exchanged for the underlying common stock. As the market price
of the underlying common stock declines below the conversion price, the price
of the convertible security tends to be increasingly influenced more by the
yield of the convertible security than by the market price of the underlying
common stock. Thus, it may not decline in price to the same extent as the
underlying common stock, and convertible securities generally have less
potential for gain or loss than common stocks. However, mandatory convertible
securities (as discussed below) generally do not limit the potential for loss
to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. In
the event of a liquidation of the issuing company, holders of convertible
securities would be paid before that company's common stockholders.
Consequently, an issuer's convertible securities generally entail less risk
than its common stock. However, convertible securities fall below debt
obligations of the same issuer in order of preference or priority in the event
of a liquidation and are typically unrated or rated lower than such debt
obligations. See "--Credit Risk; Subordination." In addition, contingent
payment convertible securities allow the issuer to claim deductions based on
its nonconvertible cost of debt, which generally will result in deductions in
excess of the actual cash payments made on the securities (and accordingly,
holders will recognize income in amounts in excess of the cash payments
received).

   Mandatory convertible securities are distinguished as a subset of
convertible securities because the conversion is not optional and the
conversion price at maturity is based solely upon the market price of the
underlying common stock, which may be significantly less than par or the price
(above or below par) paid. For these reasons, the risks associated with
investing in mandatory convertible securities most closely resemble the risks
inherent in common stocks. Mandatory convertible securities customarily pay a
higher coupon yield to compensate for the potential risk of additional price
volatility and loss upon conversion. Because the market price of a mandatory
convertible security increasingly corresponds to the market price of its
underlying common stock as the convertible security approaches its conversion
date, there can be no assurance that the higher coupon will compensate for the
potential loss. See "--Common Stock Risk" below.

Synthetic Convertible Security Risk

   Although the Fund does not currently intend to invest in synthetic
convertible securities, it may invest up to 10% of its Managed Assets in such
securities. The Fund may invest in synthetic convertible securities created by
third parties that, similar to true convertible securities, typically trade as
a single security with a unitary value. The Fund may also invest in synthetic
convertible securities by acquiring separate securities, one possessing a
fixed-income component and the other possessing an equity component. The value
of a synthetic convertible security that is comprised of separate securities,
may respond differently to market fluctuations than a true convertible security
or a synthetic convertible security traded as a single security because each
separate security comprising such a synthetic convertible security has its own
market value. In addition, because the equity component may be synthetically
achieved by investing in warrants or options to buy common stock at a certain
exercise price, or options on a common stock index, synthetic convertible
securities are subject to the risks associated with warrants and options. In
addition, if the value of the underlying common stock or the level of the index
involved in the equity component falls below the exercise price of the warrant
or option, the warrant or option may lose all value. See "--Convertible
Security Risk."

                                      47



   The Fund will be subject to the risks of warrants and options to the extent
it invests in synthetic convertible securities that use warrants or options on
common stocks or common stock indexes as their equity components. The Fund's
investments in warrants and options involve risks different from, and possibly
greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in convertible
securities. Warrants and options are subject to a number of risks associated
with derivative instruments generally and described elsewhere in this
Prospectus such as illiquidity risks and risks associated with investments in
common stocks. They also involve the risk of mispricing or improper valuation,
the risk of ambiguous documentation, and the risk that changes in the value of
a warrant or option may not correlate perfectly with the underlying common
stock or common stock index.

Market Discount From Net Asset Value

   Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount
from their net asset value. This characteristic is a risk separate and distinct
from the risk that the Fund's net asset value could decrease as a result of its
investment activities and may be greater for investors expecting to sell their
shares in a relatively short period of time following completion of this
offering. The net asset value of the Common Shares will be reduced immediately
following the offering as a result of the payment of certain offering costs.
Whether investors will realize gains or losses upon the sale of the Common
Shares will depend not upon the Fund's net asset value but entirely upon
whether the market price of the Common Shares at the time of sale is above or
below the investor's purchase price for the Common Shares. Because the market
price of the Common Shares will be determined by factors such as relative
supply of and demand for the Common Shares in the market, general market and
economic conditions, and other factors beyond the control of the Fund, the Fund
cannot predict whether the Common Shares will trade at, below or above net
asset value or at, below or above the initial public offering price.

Leverage Risk

   Utilization of leverage is a speculative investment technique and involves
certain risks to the holders of Common Shares. These include higher volatility
of the net asset value of the Common Shares, the likelihood of potentially more
volatility in the market value of the Common Shares and the possibility either
that the Common Share income will fall if the dividend rate on FundPreferred
shares or the interest rate on any Borrowings rises, or that Common Share
income will fluctuate because the dividend rate on FundPreferred shares or the
interest rate of Borrowings varies.

   So long as the Fund is able to realize a higher net return on its investment
portfolio than the then current cost of any leverage together with other
related expenses, the effect of the leverage will be to cause holders of Common
Shares to realize higher net return than if the Fund were not so leveraged. On
the other hand, to the extent that the then current cost of any leverage,
together with other related expenses, approaches the net return on the Fund's
investment portfolio, the benefit of leverage to holders of Common Shares will
be reduced, and if the then current cost of any leverage were to exceed the net
return on the Fund's portfolio, the Fund's leveraged capital structure would
result in a lower rate of return to Common Shareholders than if the Fund were
not so leveraged. There can be no assurance that the Fund's leverage strategy
will be successful. The Fund will pay (and Common Shareholders will bear) any
costs and expenses relating to any Borrowings and to the issuance and ongoing
maintenance of FundPreferred shares (for example, distribution related expenses
such as a participation fee paid at what it expects will be an annual rate of
0.25% of FundPreferred share liquidation preference to broker-dealers
successfully participating in FundPreferred share auctions).

                                      48



   Any decline in the net asset value of the Fund's investments will be borne
entirely by Common Shareholders. Therefore, if the market value of the Fund's
portfolio declines, the leverage will result in a greater decrease in net asset
value to Common Shareholders than if the Fund were not leveraged. Such greater
net asset value decrease also will tend to cause a greater decline in the
market price for the Common Shares. To the extent that the Fund is required or
elects to redeem any FundPreferred shares or prepay any Borrowings, the Fund
may need to liquidate investments to fund such redemptions or prepayments.
Liquidation at times of adverse economic conditions may result in capital loss
and reduce returns to Common Shareholders.

   In addition, such redemption or prepayment would likely result in the Fund
seeking to terminate early all or a portion of any interest rate swap or cap
transaction. Early termination of an interest rate swap could result in a
termination payment by or to the Fund. An early termination of a cap could
result in a termination payment to the Fund. See "Hedging Transactions."

Concentration Risk

   The Fund intends to invest at least 25% of its Managed Assets in securities
of companies principally engaged in financial services. This policy makes the
Fund more susceptible to adverse economic or regulatory occurrences affecting
that sector.

   Concentration of investments in the financial services sector includes the
following risks:

  .  regulatory actions--financial services companies may suffer a setback if
     regulators change the rules under which they operate;

  .  changes in interest rates--unstable interest rates can have a
     disproportionate effect on the financial services sector;

  .  concentration of loans--financial services companies whose securities the
     Fund may purchase may themselves have concentrated portfolios, such as a
     high level of loans to real estate developers, which makes them vulnerable
     to economic conditions that affect that sector; and

  .  competition--financial services companies have been affected by increased
     competition, which could adversely affect the profitability and viability
     of such companies.

Non-U.S. Securities Risk

   The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets in securities of
non-U.S. issuers. Subject to this 35% limitation, up to 10% of the Fund's
Managed Assets may be invested in securities that are denominated in Japanese
yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros and which may be offered, traded
or listed in markets other than U.S. markets. The remainder of the Fund's
Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of non-U.S. issuers will be
invested in U.S. dollar denominated securities offered, traded or listed in
U.S. markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more than 20% of
its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers and does not currently
intend to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities described above.
Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve special risks not
presented by investments in securities of U.S. issuers, including the
following: (i) less publicly available information about non-U.S. issuers or
markets due to less rigorous disclosure or accounting standards or regulatory
practices; (ii) many non-U.S. markets are smaller, less liquid and more
volatile meaning that in a changing market, an Adviser may not be able to sell
the

                                      49



Fund's portfolio securities at times, in amounts and at prices it considers
reasonable; (iii) potential adverse effects of fluctuations in currency
exchange rates or controls on the value of the Fund's investments; (iv) the
economies of non-U.S. countries may grow at slower rates than expected or may
experience a downturn or recession; (v) the impact of economic, political,
social or diplomatic events; (vi) possible seizure; expropriation or
nationalization of the company or its assets; (vii) certain non-U.S. countries
may impose restrictions on the ability of non-U.S. issuers to make payments of
principal and/or interest to investors located outside the U.S., due to
blockage of foreign currency exchanges or otherwise; and (viii) withholding and
other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Fund's return. Although an Adviser may
hedge the Fund's exposure to certain of these risks, including the foreign
currency exchange rate risk, there can be no assurance that the Fund will enter
into hedging transactions at any time or at times or under circumstances in
which it might be advisable to do so.

   Economies and social and political climates in individual countries may
differ unfavorably from the United States. Non-U.S. economies may have less
favorable rates of growth of gross domestic product, rates of inflation,
currency valuation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance
of payments positions. Many countries have experienced substantial, and in some
cases extremely high, rates of inflation for many years. Unanticipated
political and social developments may also affect the values of the Fund's
investments and the availability to the Fund of additional investments in such
countries.

Common Stock Risk

   The Fund will have exposure to common stocks by virtue of the equity
component of the convertible securities in which the Fund invests. The Fund may
hold common stocks in its portfolio upon conversion of a convertible security,
such holdings not normally to exceed 5% of the Fund's Managed Assets. In
addition, in keeping with the income focus of the Fund, the Fund expects to
sell any common stock holdings as soon as practicable after conversion of a
convertible security. Although common stocks historically have generated higher
average returns than fixed-income securities, common stocks also have
experienced significantly more volatility in those returns. An adverse event,
such as an unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of a particular
common stock held by the Fund. Also, the price of common stock is sensitive to
general movements in the stock market. A drop in the stock market may depress
the price of common stocks held by the Fund or to which it has exposure.

Hedging Risk

   The Fund may use derivatives or other transactions for purposes of hedging
the portfolio's exposure to the risk of increases in interest rates, common
stock risk, high yield credit risk and foreign currency exchange rate risk that
could result in poorer overall performance for the Fund. There may be an
imperfect correlation between the Fund's portfolio holdings and such
derivatives, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended
consequences of the applicable transaction or expose the Fund to risk of loss.
Further, the Fund's use of derivatives or other transactions to reduce risk
involves costs and will be subject to an Adviser's ability to predict correctly
changes in the relationships of such hedging instruments to the Fund's
portfolio holdings or other factors. No assurance can be given that such
Adviser's judgment in this respect will be correct. Consequently, the use of
hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund,
whether or not adjusted for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio
holdings. In addition, no assurance can be given that the Fund will enter into
hedging transactions at times or under circumstances in which it would be
advisable to do so. See "Hedging Transactions" and "Other Investment Policies
and Techniques" in the Fund's Statement of

                                      50



Additional Information. Except for investing in synthetic convertible
securities, the Fund will use derivatives or other transactions described above
solely for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio risks.

Counterparty Risk

   The Fund may be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to
certain derivative agreements entered into by the Fund. If a counterparty
becomes bankrupt or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a
derivative contract due to financial difficulties, the Fund may experience
significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a
bankruptcy or other reorganization proceeding. The Fund may obtain only a
limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such circumstances.

Interest Rate Transactions Risk

   The Fund may enter into an interest rate swap or cap transaction to attempt
to protect itself from increasing dividend or interest expenses on its
FundPreferred shares or Borrowings resulting from increasing short-term
interest rates. A decline in interest rates may result in a decline in the
value of the swap or cap, which may result in a decline in the net asset value
of the Common Shares. See "Use of Leverage," "Hedging Transactions" and "Other
Investment Policies and Techniques" in the Fund's Statement of Additional
Information.

Certain Risks Related to Preferred Securities

   Limited Voting Rights.  Generally, preferred security holders (such as the
Fund) have no voting rights with respect to the issuing company unless
preferred dividends have been in arrears for a specified number of periods, at
which time the preferred security holders may elect a number of directors to
the issuer's board. Generally, once all the arrearages have been paid, the
preferred security holders no longer have voting rights. In the case of certain
taxable preferred securities, holders generally have no voting rights, except
(i) if the issuer fails to pay dividends for a specified period of time or (ii)
if a declaration of default occurs and is continuing. In such an event, rights
of preferred security holders generally would include the right to appoint and
authorize a trustee to enforce the trust or special purpose entity's rights as
a creditor under the agreement with its operating company.

   Special Redemption Rights.  In certain varying circumstances, an issuer of
preferred securities may redeem the securities prior to a specified date. For
instance, for certain types of preferred securities, a redemption may be
triggered by a change in federal income tax or securities laws. As with call
provisions, a redemption by the issuer may negatively impact the return of the
security held by the Fund.

New Types of Securities

   From time to time, preferred securities and convertible securities have
been, and may in the future be, offered having features other than those
described herein. The Fund reserves the right to invest in these securities if
the Adviser responsible for the investment believes that doing so would be
consistent with the Fund's investment objectives and policies. Because the
market for these instruments would be new, the Fund may have difficulty
disposing of them at a suitable price and time. In addition to limited
liquidity, these instruments may present other risks, such as high price
volatility.

                                      51



Corporate Loan Risk

   The Fund may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in other debt
instruments, including corporate loans. Corporate loans in which the Fund may
invest may not be rated by a NRSRO at the time of investment, generally will
not be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and generally
will not be listed on a securities exchange. In addition, the amount of public
information available with respect to corporate loans generally will be less
extensive than that available for more widely rated, registered and
exchange-listed securities. Because the interest rates of corporate loans reset
frequently, if market interest rates fall, the loans' interest rates will be
reset to lower levels, potentially reducing the Fund's income. No active
trading market currently exists for many corporate loans in which the Fund may
invest and, thus, they are relatively illiquid. As a result, corporate loans
generally are more difficult to value than more liquid securities for which a
trading market exists.

   The Fund also may purchase a participation interest in a corporate loan and
by doing so acquire some or all of the interest of a bank or other lending
institution in a loan to a corporate borrower. A participation typically will
result in the Fund having a contractual relationship only with the lender, not
the borrower. In this instance, the Fund will have the right to receive
payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from
the lender selling the participation and only upon receipt by the lender of the
payments from the borrower. If the Fund only acquires a participation in the
loan made by a third party, the Fund may not be able to control the exercise of
any remedies that the lender would have under the corporate loan. Such third
party participation arrangements are designed to give corporate loan investors
preferential treatment over high yield investors in the event of a
deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer. Even when these arrangements
exist, however, there can be no assurance that the principal and interest owed
on the corporate loan will be repaid in full.

Illiquid Securities Risk

   The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at
the time of investment, are illiquid. Illiquid securities are securities that
are not readily marketable and may include some restricted securities, which
are securities that may not be resold to the public without an effective
registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 or, if they are
unregistered, may be sold only in a privately negotiated transaction or
pursuant to an exemption from registration. Illiquid securities involve the
risk that the securities will not be able to be sold at the time desired by the
Fund or at prices approximating the value at which the Fund is carrying the
securities on its books.

Market Disruption Risk

   Certain events have a disruptive effect on the securities markets, such as
terrorist attacks (including the terrorist attacks in the U.S. on September 11,
2001), war and other geopolitical events. The Fund cannot predict the effects
of similar events in the future on the U.S. economy. High yield securities and
securities of issuers with smaller market capitalization tend to be more
volatile than higher rated securities and securities of issuers with larger
market capitalizations so that these events and any actions resulting from them
may have a greater impact on the prices and volatility of high yield securities
and securities of issuers with smaller market capitalization than on higher
rated securities and securities of issuers with larger market capitalization.

Inflation Risk

   Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from
investment will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of
money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Common

                                      52



Shares and distributions can decline. In addition, during any periods of rising
inflation, FundPreferred share dividend rates would likely increase, which
would tend to further reduce returns to Common Shareholders.

Certain Affiliations

   Certain broker-dealers may be considered to be affiliated persons of the
Fund, NIAC, Spectrum, Froley, Revy and/or Nuveen. Absent an exemption from the
Securities and Exchange Commission or other regulatory relief, the Fund is
generally precluded from effecting certain principal transactions with
affiliated brokers, and its ability to purchase securities being underwritten
by an affiliated broker or a syndicate including an affiliated broker, or to
utilize affiliated brokers for agency transactions, is subject to restrictions.
This could limit the Fund's ability to engage in securities transactions and
take advantage of market opportunities. In addition, unless and until the
underwriting syndicate is broken in connection with the initial public offering
of the Common Shares, the Fund will be precluded from effecting principal
transactions with brokers who are members of the syndicate.

Anti-Takeover Provisions

   The Fund's Declaration includes provisions that could limit the ability of
other entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund or convert the Fund to
open-end status. These provisions could have the effect of depriving the Common
Shareholders of opportunities to sell their Common Shares at a premium over the
then current market price of the Common Shares. See "Certain Provisions in the
Declaration of Trust."

                            MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND

Trustees and Officers

   The Board of Trustees is responsible for the management of the Fund,
including supervision of the duties performed by the Advisers. The names and
business addresses of the trustees and officers of the Fund and their principal
occupations and other affiliations during the past five years are set forth
under "Management of the Fund" in the Statement of Additional Information.

Investment Adviser and Subadvisers

   NIAC will be responsible for determining the Fund's overall investment
strategy, including portfolio allocations, and the use of leverage, hedging and
interest rate transactions. NIAC also is responsible for the selection of the
Subadvisers and ongoing monitoring of the Subadvisers, managing the Fund's
business affairs and providing certain clerical, bookkeeping and other
administrative services.

   NIAC, 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606, is the investment
adviser to the Fund and is responsible for managing the portion of the Fund's
assets allocated to other debt instruments. NIAC and its affiliate Nuveen
Advisory Corp. serve as investment advisers to investment portfolios with
approximately $54.1 billion in assets under management as of April 30, 2003.
See the Statement of Additional Information under "Investment Advisers."

                                      53



   NIAC, a registered investment adviser, is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Nuveen Investments, Inc. Founded in 1898, Nuveen Investments, Inc. and its
affiliates had approximately $83 billion of assets under management as of April
30, 2003. Nuveen Investments, Inc. is a publicly-traded company and a
majority-owned subsidiary of The St. Paul Companies, Inc., a publicly-traded
company that is principally engaged in providing property-liability insurance
through subsidiaries.


   Gunther Stein and Lenny Mason are the portfolio managers at NIAC responsible
for investing the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to other debt
instruments. Mr. Stein is a Vice President of NIAC. He also has been lead
portfolio manager for high yield strategies at Symphony Asset Management, LLC
("Symphony"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc., since
1999. Prior to joining Symphony in 1999, Mr. Stein was a high yield portfolio
manager at Wells Fargo. Mr. Mason is a Vice President of NIAC. He also is a
high yield portfolio manager at Symphony. Prior to joining Symphony in 2001,
Mr. Mason was a Managing Director of FleetBoston's Technology and
Communications Group.


   Spectrum, 4 High Ridge Park, Stamford, Connecticut 06905, is a Subadviser to
the Fund and is responsible for managing the portion of the Fund's assets
allocated to preferred securities.  Spectrum specializes in the management of
diversified preferred security portfolios for institutional investors,
including Fortune 500 companies, pension funds, insurance companies and
foundations. Spectrum, a registered investment adviser, commenced operations in
1987 and had approximately $8 billion in assets under management as of April
30, 2003.

   Spectrum is an independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of Principal
Global Investors, LLC, which is part of Principal Financial Group Inc., a
publicly traded, diversified, insurance and financial services company.
Collectively, subsidiaries and affiliates of Principal Global Investors, LLC
managed over $98 billion in combined assets worldwide as of April 30, 2003.

   A team of Spectrum professionals led by Mark A. Lieb, Bernard M. Sussman and
L. Phillip Jacoby, IV is responsible for investing the portion of the Fund's
assets allocated to preferred securities. Mr. Lieb is an Executive Director and
the Chief Financial Officer of Spectrum. Mr. Sussman is an Executive Director
and the Chief Investment Officer of Spectrum and is Chairman of Spectrum's
Investment Committee. Mr. Jacoby is a Senior Vice President of Spectrum. As a
subsidiary of Principal Global Investors, LLC, Spectrum also can take advantage
of Principal's extensive staff of internal credit analysts. See "The Fund's
Investments--Investment Philosophy and Process."

   Spectrum may act as broker for the Fund in connection with the purchase or
sale of preferred securities by or to the Fund if and to the extent permitted
by procedures adopted from time to time by the Board of Trustees of the Fund.
The Board of Trustees, including a majority of the trustees who are not
"interested" trustees, has determined that portfolio transactions for the Fund
may be executed through Spectrum if, in the judgment of NIAC and Spectrum, the
use of Spectrum is likely to result in prices and execution at least as
favorable to the Fund as would be available from other qualified brokers and
if, in such transactions, Spectrum charges the Fund commission rates at least
as favorable to the Fund as those charged by Spectrum to comparable
unaffiliated customers in similar transactions. The Board of Trustees also has
adopted procedures that are reasonably designed to provide that any commission,
fee or other remuneration paid to Spectrum is consistent with the foregoing
standard. The

                                      54



Fund will not effect principal transactions with Spectrum. In executing
transactions through Spectrum, the Fund will be subject to, and intends to
comply with, Section 17(e) of the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder. See
"Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage" in the Statement of Additional
Information.

   Froley, Revy, 10900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, California
90024, is a Subadviser to the Fund and is responsible for managing the portion
of the Fund's assets allocated to convertible securities. Froley, Revy
specializes in the management of convertible securities. Froley, Revy, a
registered investment adviser, commenced operations in 1975 and had
approximately $2.5 billion in assets under management as of April 30, 2003.

   Froley, Revy is an independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of First
Republic Bank, which is a publicly-traded commercial bank and wealth management
firm. Collectively, subsidiaries and affiliates of First Republic Bank,
including Froley, Revy, managed approximately $7 billion in combined assets as
of April 30, 2003.

   Andrea Revy O'Connell and Michael Revy are the portfolio managers at Froley,
Revy responsible for investing the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to
convertible securities. Ms. O'Connell is President and Chief Executive Officer
of Froley, Revy and has been a Managing Director and a Principal of Froley,
Revy since 1994. Mr. Revy is a Senior Vice President, Senior Portfolio Manager
and a Managing Director of Froley, Revy and is responsible for the development
and co-management of Froley, Revy's convertible arbitrage product. Before
joining Froley, Revy in 2002, Mr. Revy was a private banker at Wechsler & Co.,
Inc. since 1998, and prior thereto worked for Lehman Brothers for six years in
that firm's convertible bond group.

Investment Management Agreement

   Pursuant to an investment management agreement between NIAC and the Fund,
the Fund has agreed to pay an annual management fee for the services and
facilities provided by NIAC, payable on a monthly basis, according to the
following schedule:



                                                  Management
                   Average Daily Managed Assets//    Fee
                   ------------------------------ ----------
                                               
                   Up to $500 million............   .9000%
                   $500 million to $1 billion....   .8750%
                   $1 billion to $1.5 billion....   .8500%
                   $1.5 billion to $2.0 billion..   .8250%
                   Over $2.0 billion.............   .8000%


   If the Fund utilizes leverage through the issuance of FundPreferred shares
in an amount equal to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the amount
obtained from leverage), the management fee calculated as a percentage of net
assets attributable to Common Shares would be as follows:



                                                       Management
              Net Assets Attributable to Common Shares    Fee
              ---------------------------------------- ----------
                                                    
                    Up to $500 million................   1.3500%
                    $500 million to $1 billion........   1.3125%
                    $1 billion to $1.5 billion........   1.2750%
                    $1.5 billion to $2.0 billion......   1.2375%
                    Over $2.0 billion.................   1.2000%


                                      55



   Pursuant to investment sub-advisory agreements between NIAC and each of the
Subadvisers, each Subadviser will receive from NIAC a management fee equal to
40% of the management fee payable by the Fund to NIAC (net of the
reimbursements described below) with respect to that Subadviser's allocation of
Managed Assets up to the first $500 million of the average daily Managed Assets
of the Fund allocated to that Subadviser and 35% thereafter.

   In addition to the fee of NIAC, the Fund pays all other costs and expenses
of its operations, including compensation of its trustees (other than those
affiliated with NIAC), custodian, transfer agency and dividend disbursing
expenses, legal fees, expenses of independent auditors, expenses of
repurchasing shares, expenses of issuing any FundPreferred shares, expenses of
preparing, printing and distributing shareholder reports, notices, proxy
statements and reports to governmental agencies, and taxes, if any.

   For the first eight full years of the Fund's operation, the Advisers have
contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund for fees and expenses in the
amounts, and for the time periods, set forth below:



                  Percentage                                    Percentage
                  Reimbursed                                    Reimbursed
 Year Ending  (as a percentage of                           (as a percentage of
  June 30,      Managed Assets)     Year Ending June 30,      Managed Assets)
 -----------  -------------------   --------------------    -------------------
                                                   
    2003/(1)/        .32%                   2008                   .32%
      2004           .32%                   2009                   .24%
      2005           .32%                   2010                   .16%
      2006           .32%                   2011                   .08%
      2007           .32%

--------
(1)From the commencement of operations.

   The Advisers have not agreed to reimburse the Fund for any portion of its
fees and expenses beyond June 30, 2011.

                                NET ASSET VALUE

   The Fund will determine the net asset value of its shares daily, as of the
close of regular session trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00
p.m. eastern time). Net asset value is computed by dividing the value of all
assets of the Fund (including accrued interest and dividends), less all
liabilities (including accrued expenses and dividends declared but unpaid), by
the total number of shares outstanding. Any swap transaction that the Fund
enters into may, depending on the applicable interest rate environment, have a
positive or negative value for purposes of calculating net asset value. Any cap
transaction that the Fund enters into may, depending on the applicable interest
rate environment, have no value or a positive value. In addition, accrued
payments to the Fund under such transactions will be assets of the Fund and
accrued payments by the Fund will be liabilities of the Fund.

   For purposes of determining the net asset value of the Fund, readily
marketable portfolio securities listed on the New York Stock Exchange are
valued, except as indicated below, at the last sale price reflected on the
consolidated tape at the close of the New York Stock Exchange on the business
day as of which such value is being determined. If there has been no sale on
such day, the securities are valued

                                      56



at the mean of the closing bid and asked prices on such day. If no bid or asked
prices are quoted on such day, then the security is valued by such method as
the Board of Trustees shall determine in good faith to reflect its fair market
value. Readily marketable securities not listed on the New York Stock Exchange
but listed on other domestic exchanges or admitted to trading on the National
Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations, Inc. ("NASDAQ")
National List are valued in a like manner except that NASDAQ National List
securities are valued using the NASDAQ Official Closing Price for such
securities. Portfolio securities traded on more than one securities exchange
are valued at the last sale price on the business day as of which such value is
being determined as reflected on the tape at the close of the exchange
representing the principal market for such securities.

   Readily marketable securities traded in the over-the-counter market,
including listed securities whose primary market is believed by the investment
adviser to be over-the-counter, but excluding securities admitted to trading on
the NASDAQ National List, are valued at the mean of the current bid and asked
prices as reported by NASDAQ or, in the case of securities not quoted by
NASDAQ, the National Quotation Bureau or such other comparable source as the
Trustees deem appropriate to reflect their fair market value. However, certain
fixed-income securities may be valued on the basis of prices provided by a
pricing service when such prices are believed by the Board of Trustees to
reflect the fair market value of such securities. The prices provided by a
pricing service take into account institutional size trading in similar groups
of securities and any developments related to specific securities. Where
securities are traded on more than one exchange and also over-the-counter, the
securities will generally be valued using the quotations the Board of Trustees
believes reflect most closely the value of such securities.

                                 DISTRIBUTIONS

   Subject to the determination of the Board of Trustees to implement a Managed
Dividend Policy, as discussed below, commencing with the first dividend, the
Fund intends to make regular monthly cash distributions to Common Shareholders
at a level rate (stated in terms of a fixed cents per Common Share dividend
rate) that reflects the past and projected performance of the Fund.
Distributions can only be made from net investment income after paying any
accrued dividends to FundPreferred shareholders, if any, and interest and
required principal payments on Borrowings, if any. The Fund's ability to
maintain a Level Rate Dividend Policy will depend on a number of factors,
including the stability of income received from its investments and dividends
payable on the FundPreferred shares, if any, and interest and required
principal payments on Borrowings, if any. The net investment income of the Fund
consists of all income (other than net capital gain) less all expenses of the
Fund. Expenses of the Fund are accrued each day. Over time, all the net
investment income of the Fund will be distributed. At least annually, the Fund
also intends to distribute net capital gain and ordinary taxable income, if
any, after paying any accrued dividends or making any redemption or liquidation
payments to FundPreferred shareholders or making interest and required
principal payments on Borrowings, if any. Initial distributions to Common
Shareholders are expected to be declared approximately 45 days, and paid
approximately 60 to 90 days, from the completion of this offering, depending on
market conditions. Although it does not now intend to do so, the Board of
Trustees may change the Fund's dividend policy and the amount or timing of the
distributions, based on a number of factors, including the amount of the Fund's
undistributed net investment income and historical and projected net investment
income and the amount of the expenses and dividend rates on the outstanding
FundPreferred shares.

                                      57



   To permit the Fund to maintain a more stable monthly distribution, the Fund
will initially distribute less than the entire amount of net investment income
earned in a particular period. The undistributed net investment income would be
available to supplement future distributions. As a result, the distributions
paid by the Fund for any particular monthly period may be more or less than the
amount of net investment income actually earned by the Fund during the period.
Undistributed net investment income will be added to the Fund's net asset value
and, correspondingly, distributions from undistributed net investment income
will be deducted from the Fund's net asset value.

   In June 2002, NIAC, on behalf of itself and certain funds, filed an
exemptive application with the Securities and Exchange Commission seeking an
order under the 1940 Act facilitating the implementation of the Managed
Dividend Policy. The application will be amended to include the Fund as a
party. If, and when, NIAC, on behalf of itself and other parties, receives the
requested relief, the Fund may, subject to the determination of its Board of
Trustees, implement a Managed Dividend Policy.

   Under a Managed Dividend Policy, the Fund would intend to distribute a
monthly fixed percentage of net asset value to Common Shareholders. As with the
Level Dividend Rate Policy, distributions would be made only after paying any
accrued dividends or making any redemption or liquidation payments to
FundPreferred shares, if any, and interest and required principal payments on
Borrowings, if any. Under a Managed Dividend Policy, if, for any monthly
distribution, net investment income and net realized capital gain were less
than the amount of the distribution, the difference would be distributed from
the Fund's assets. In addition, in order to make such distributions, the Fund
might have to sell a portion of its investment portfolio at a time when
independent investment judgment might not dictate such action. The Fund's final
distribution for each calendar year would include any remaining net investment
income and net realized capital gain undistributed during the year.

   If, for any calendar year, the Fund's total distributions exceeded net
investment income and net realized capital gain (the "Excess"), the Excess,
distributed from the Fund's assets, would generally be treated as a tax-free
return of capital up to the amount of the Common Shareholder's tax basis in
Common Shares, with any amounts exceeding such basis treated as gain from the
sale of Common Shares. The Excess, however, would be treated as ordinary
dividend income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings
and profits. Pursuant to the requirements of the 1940 Act and other applicable
laws, a notice would accompany each monthly distribution with respect to the
estimated source of the distribution made.

   In the event the Fund distributed the Excess, such distribution would
decrease the Fund's total assets and, therefore, have the likely effect of
increasing the Fund's expense ratio. There is a risk that the Fund would not
eventually realize capital gains in an amount corresponding to a distribution
of the Excess.

   There is no guarantee that the Fund will receive an exemptive order
facilitating the implementation of a Managed Dividend Policy or, if received,
that the Board of Trustees will determine to implement a Managed Dividend
Policy. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to change the dividend policy
from time to time.

                                      58



                          DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN

   If your Common Shares are registered directly with the Fund or if you hold
your Common Shares with a brokerage firm that participates in the Fund's
Dividend Reinvestment Plan, you may elect to have all dividends, including any
capital gain dividends, on your Common Shares automatically reinvested by the
Plan Agent, in additional Common Shares under the Dividend Reinvestment Plan
(the "Plan"). You may elect to participate in the Plan by completing the
Dividend Reinvestment Plan Application Form. If you do not participate, you
will receive all distributions in cash paid by check mailed directly to you by
State Street Bank and Trust Company, as dividend paying agent.

   If you decide to participate in the Plan, the number of Common Shares you
will receive will be determined as follows:

      (1) If the Common Shares are trading at or above net asset value at the
   time of valuation, the Fund will issue new shares at a price equal to the
   greater of (i) net asset value per Common Share on that date or (ii) 95% of
   the market price on that date.

      (2) If Common Shares are trading below net asset value at the time of
   valuation, the Plan Agent will receive the dividend or distribution in cash
   and will purchase Common Shares in the open market, on the New York Stock
   Exchange or elsewhere, for the participants' accounts. It is possible that
   the market price for the Common Shares may increase before the Plan Agent
   has completed its purchases. Therefore, the average purchase price per share
   paid by the Plan Agent may exceed the market price at the time of valuation,
   resulting in the purchase of fewer shares than if the dividend or
   distribution had been paid in Common Shares issued by the Fund. The Plan
   Agent will use all dividends and distributions received in cash to purchase
   Common Shares in the open market within 30 days of the valuation date.
   Interest will not be paid on any uninvested cash payments.

   You may withdraw from the Plan at any time by giving written notice to the
Plan Agent. If you withdraw or the Plan is terminated, you will receive a
certificate for each whole share in your account under the Plan and you will
receive a cash payment for any fraction of a share in your account. If you
wish, the Plan Agent will sell your shares and send you the proceeds, minus
brokerage commissions and a $2.50 service fee.

   The Plan Agent maintains all shareholders' accounts in the Plan and gives
written confirmation of all transactions in the accounts, including information
you may need for tax records. Common Shares in your account will be held by the
Plan Agent in non-certificated form. Any proxy you receive will include all
Common Shares you have received under the Plan.

   There is no brokerage charge for reinvestment of your dividends or
distributions in Common Shares. However, all participants will pay a pro rata
share of brokerage commissions incurred by the Plan Agent when it makes open
market purchases.

   Automatically reinvesting dividends and distributions does not mean that you
do not have to pay income taxes due upon receiving dividends and distributions.

   If you hold your Common Shares with a brokerage firm that does not
participate in the Plan, you will not be able to participate in the Plan and
any dividend reinvestment may be effected on different terms than those
described above. Consult your financial advisor for more information.

   The Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan if in the
judgment of the Board of Trustees the change is warranted. There is no direct
service charge to participants in the Plan; however, the Fund reserves the
right to amend the Plan to include a service charge payable by the
participants. Additional information about the Plan may be obtained from State
Street Bank and Trust Company, Attn: Equiserve Nuveen Investments, P.O. Box
43071, Providence, Rhode Island 02940-3071, (800) 257-8787.

                                      59



                             DESCRIPTION OF SHARES

Common Shares

   The Declaration authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of Common
Shares. The Common Shares being offered have a par value of $0.01 per share
and, subject to the rights of holders of FundPreferred shares if issued, have
equal rights to the payment of dividends and the distribution of assets upon
liquidation. The Common Shares being offered will, when issued, be fully paid
and, subject to matters discussed in "Certain Provisions in the Declaration of
Trust," non-assessable, and will have no preemptive or conversion rights or
rights to cumulative voting. At any time when FundPreferred shares are
outstanding, Common Shareholders will not be entitled to receive any cash
distributions from the Fund unless all accrued dividends on FundPreferred
shares have been paid, and unless asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act)
with respect to FundPreferred shares would be at least 200% after giving effect
to the distributions. See "--FundPreferred Shares" below.

   The Common Shares have been approved for listing on the New York Stock
Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. The Fund intends to hold annual
meetings of shareholders so long as the Common Shares are listed on a national
securities exchange and such meetings are required as a condition to such
listing.

   The Fund's net asset value per share generally increases when interest rates
decline, and decreases when interest rates rise, and these changes are likely
to be greater because the Fund, if market conditions are deemed favorable,
likely will have a leveraged capital structure. Net asset value will be reduced
immediately following the offering by the amount of the sales load and offering
expenses paid by the Fund. Nuveen has agreed to pay (i) all organizational
expenses and (ii) offering costs (other than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per
Common Share. See "Use of Proceeds."

   Unlike open-end funds, closed-end funds like the Fund do not continuously
offer shares and do not provide daily redemptions. Rather, if a shareholder
determines to buy additional Common Shares or sell shares already held, the
shareholder may conveniently do so by trading on the exchange through a broker
or otherwise. Shares of closed-end investment companies may frequently trade on
an exchange at prices lower than net asset value. Shares of closed-end
investment companies like the Fund have during some periods traded at prices
higher than net asset value and during other periods have traded at prices
lower than net asset value. Because the market value of the Common Shares may
be influenced by such factors as dividend levels (which are in turn affected by
expenses), call protection, dividend stability, portfolio credit quality, net
asset value, relative demand for and supply of such shares in the market,
general market and economic conditions, and other factors beyond the control of
the Fund, the Fund cannot assure you that Common Shares will trade at a price
equal to or higher than net asset value in the future. The Common Shares are
designed primarily for long-term investors, and investors in the Common Shares
should not view the Fund as a vehicle for trading purposes. See "Use of
Leverage" and the Statement of Additional Information under "Repurchase of Fund
Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund."

FundPreferred Shares

   The Declaration authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of
FundPreferred shares in one or more classes or series, with rights as
determined by the Board of Trustees, by action of the Board of Trustees without
the approval of the Common Shareholders.

                                      60



   The Fund's Board of Trustees has authorized an offering of FundPreferred
shares (representing approximately 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital immediately
after the time the FundPreferred shares are issued) that the Fund expects will
likely be issued within approximately one and one-half to two months after
completion of the offering of Common Shares. Any such decision is subject to
market conditions and to the Board's continuing belief that leveraging the
Fund's capital structure through the issuance of FundPreferred shares is likely
to achieve the benefits to the Common Shareholders described in this
Prospectus. The Board has determined that the FundPreferred shares, at least
initially, would likely pay cumulative dividends at rates determined over
relatively shorter-term periods (such as 7 days), by providing for the periodic
redetermination of the dividend rate through an auction or remarketing
procedure. The Board of Trustees has indicated that the preference on
distribution, liquidation preference, voting rights and redemption provisions
of the FundPreferred shares will likely be as stated below.

   Limited Issuance of FundPreferred Shares.  Under the 1940 Act, the Fund can
issue FundPreferred shares with an aggregate liquidation value of up to
one-half of the value of the Fund's total net assets, measured immediately
after issuance of the FundPreferred shares. "Liquidation value" means the
original purchase price of the shares being liquidated plus any accrued and
unpaid dividends. In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash
dividend or other distribution on its Common Shares unless the liquidation
value of the FundPreferred shares is less than one-half of the value of the
Fund's total net assets (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend
or distribution) immediately after the distribution. If the Fund sells all the
Common Shares and FundPreferred shares discussed in this Prospectus, the
liquidation value of the FundPreferred shares is expected to be approximately
33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total net assets. The Fund intends to
purchase or redeem FundPreferred shares, if necessary, to keep that fraction
below one-half.

   Distribution Preference.  The FundPreferred shares have complete priority
over the Common Shares as to distribution of assets.

   Liquidation Preference.  In the event of any voluntary or involuntary
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the affairs of the Fund, holders of
FundPreferred shares will be entitled to receive a preferential liquidating
distribution (expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus
accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon, whether or not earned or declared)
before any distribution of assets is made to holders of Common Shares.

   Voting Rights.  FundPreferred shares are required to be voting shares and to
have equal voting rights with Common Shares. Except as otherwise indicated in
this Prospectus or the Statement of Additional Information and except as
otherwise required by applicable law, holders of FundPreferred shares will vote
together with Common Shareholders as a single class.

   Holders of FundPreferred shares, voting as a separate class, will be
entitled to elect two of the Fund's trustees (following the establishment of
the Fund by an initial trustee, the Declaration provides for a total of no less
than two and no more than twelve trustees). The remaining trustees will be
elected by Common Shareholders and holders of FundPreferred shares, voting
together as a single class. In the unlikely event that two full years of
accrued dividends are unpaid on the FundPreferred shares, the holders of all
outstanding FundPreferred shares, voting as a separate class, will be entitled
to elect a majority of the Fund's trustees until all dividends in arrears have
been paid or declared and set apart for payment. In order for the Fund to take
certain actions or enter into certain transactions, a separate class

                                      61



vote of holders of FundPreferred shares will be required, in addition to the
single class vote of the holders of FundPreferred shares and Common Shares. See
the Statement of Additional Information under "Description of
Shares--FundPreferred Shares--Voting Rights."

   Redemption, Purchase and Sale of FundPreferred Shares.  The terms of the
FundPreferred shares provide that they may be redeemed by the issuer at certain
times, in whole or in part, at the original purchase price per share plus
accumulated dividends. Any redemption or purchase of FundPreferred shares by
the Fund will reduce the leverage applicable to Common Shares, while any
issuance of shares by the Fund will increase such leverage. See "Use of
Leverage."

   The discussion above describes the Board of Trustees' present intention with
respect to a possible offering of FundPreferred shares. The terms of the
FundPreferred shares may be the same as, or different from, the terms described
above, subject to applicable law and the Fund's Declaration.

                CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN THE DECLARATION OF TRUST

   Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain circumstances, be
held personally liable for the obligations of the Fund. However, the
Declaration contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for debts
or obligations of the Fund and requires that notice of such limited liability
be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed
by the Fund or the trustees. The Declaration further provides for
indemnification out of the assets and property of the Fund for all loss and
expense of any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the
Fund. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund would be
unable to meet its obligations. The Fund believes that the likelihood of such
circumstances is remote.

   The Declaration includes provisions that could limit the ability of other
entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund or to convert the Fund to
open-end status. Specifically, the Declaration requires a vote by holders of at
least two-thirds of the Common Shares and FundPreferred shares, voting together
as a single class, except as described below, to authorize (1) a conversion of
the Fund from a closed-end to an open-end investment company, (2) a merger or
consolidation of the Fund, or a series or class of the Fund, with any
corporation, association, trust or other organization or a reorganization of
the Fund, or a series or class of the Fund, (3) a sale, lease or transfer of
all or substantially all of the Fund's assets (other than in the regular course
of the Fund's investment activities), (4) in certain circumstances, a
termination of the Fund, or a series or class of the Fund, or (5) a removal of
trustees by shareholders, and then only for cause, unless, with respect to (1)
through (4), such transaction has already been authorized by the affirmative
vote of two-thirds of the total number of trustees fixed in accordance with the
Declaration or the By-laws, in which case the affirmative vote of the holders
of at least a majority of the Fund's Common Shares and FundPreferred shares
outstanding at the time, voting together as a single class, is required,
provided, however, that where only a particular class or series is affected
(or, in the case of removing a trustee, when the trustee has been elected by
only one class), only the required vote by the applicable class or series will
be required. Approval of shareholders is not required, however, for any
transaction, whether deemed a merger, consolidation, reorganization or
otherwise whereby the Fund issues shares in connection with the acquisition of
assets (including those subject to liabilities) from any other investment
company or

                                      62



similar entity. In the case of the conversion of the Fund to an open-end
investment company, or in the case of any of the foregoing transactions
constituting a plan of reorganization which adversely affects the holders of
FundPreferred shares, the action in question will also require the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the FundPreferred shares
outstanding at the time, voting as a separate class, or, if such action has
been authorized by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the total number of
trustees fixed in accordance with the Declaration or the By-laws, the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the FundPreferred
shares outstanding at the time, voting as a separate class. None of the
foregoing provisions may be amended except by the vote of at least two-thirds
of the Common Shares and FundPreferred shares, voting together as a single
class. The votes required to approve the conversion of the Fund from a
closed-end to an open-end investment company or to approve transactions
constituting a plan of reorganization which adversely affects the holders of
FundPreferred shares are higher than those required by the 1940 Act. The Board
of Trustees believes that the provisions of the Declaration relating to such
higher votes are in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders. See the
Statement of Additional Information under "Certain Provisions in the
Declaration of Trust."

   The provisions of the Declaration described above could have the effect of
depriving the Common Shareholders of opportunities to sell their Common Shares
at a premium over the then current market price of the Common Shares by
discouraging a third party from seeking to obtain control of the Fund in a
tender offer or similar transaction. The overall effect of these provisions is
to render more difficult the accomplishment of a merger or the assumption of
control by a third party. They provide, however, the advantage of potentially
requiring persons seeking control of the Fund to negotiate with its management
regarding the price to be paid and facilitating the continuity of the Fund's
investment objectives and policies. The Board of Trustees of the Fund has
considered the foregoing anti-takeover provisions and concluded that they are
in the best interests of the Fund and its Common Shareholders.

   Reference should be made to the Declaration on file with the Securities and
Exchange Commission for the full text of these provisions.

            REPURCHASE OF FUND SHARES; CONVERSION TO OPEN-END FUND

   The Fund is a closed-end investment company and as such its shareholders
will not have the right to cause the Fund to redeem their shares. Instead, the
Common Shares will trade in the open market at a price that will be a function
of several factors, including dividend levels (which are in turn affected by
expenses), net asset value, call protection, dividend stability, portfolio
credit quality, relative demand for and supply of such shares in the market,
general market and economic conditions and other factors. Because shares of
closed-end investment companies may frequently trade at prices lower than net
asset value, the Fund's Board of Trustees has currently determined that, at
least annually, it will consider action that might be taken to reduce or
eliminate any material discount from net asset value in respect of Common
Shares, which may include the repurchase of such shares in the open market or
in private transactions, the making of a tender offer for such shares at net
asset value, or the conversion of the Fund to an open-end investment company.
The Fund cannot assure you that its Board of Trustees will decide to take any
of these actions, or that share repurchases or tender offers will actually
reduce market discount.

   If the Fund converted to an open-end investment company, it would be
required to redeem all FundPreferred shares then outstanding (requiring in turn
that it liquidate a portion of its investment portfolio), and the Common Shares
would no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. In

                                      63



contrast to a closed-end investment company, shareholders of an open-end
investment company may require the company to redeem their shares at any time
(except in certain circumstances as authorized by the 1940 Act or the rules
thereunder) at their net asset value, less any redemption charge that is in
effect at the time of redemption. See the Statement of Additional Information
under "Repurchase of Fund Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund" for a discussion
of the voting requirements applicable to the conversion of the Fund to an
open-end investment company.

   Before deciding whether to take any action if the Common Shares trade below
net asset value, the Board would consider all relevant factors, including the
extent and duration of the discount, the liquidity of the Fund's portfolio, the
impact of any action that might be taken on the Fund or its shareholders, and
market considerations. Based on these considerations, even if the Fund's shares
should trade at a discount, the Board of Trustees may determine that, in the
interest of the Fund and its shareholders, no action should be taken. See the
Statement of Additional Information under "Repurchase of Fund Shares;
Conversion to Open-End Fund" for a further discussion of possible action to
reduce or eliminate such discount to net asset value.

                                  TAX MATTERS

   The following discussion of federal income tax matters is based on the
advice of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC, special counsel to the Fund.

   The discussions below and in the Statement of Additional Information provide
general tax information related to an investment in the Common Shares. Because
tax laws are complex and often change, you should consult your tax advisor
about the tax consequences of an investment in the Fund. The following tax
discussion assumes that you are a U.S. shareholder and that you hold the Common
Shares as a capital asset.

   Dividends paid to you out of the Fund's "investment company taxable income"
(which includes dividends the Fund receives, interest income, and net
short-term capital gain) will be taxable to you as ordinary income to the
extent of the Fund's earnings and profits. Distributions of net capital gain
(the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss), if
any, are taxable to you as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long you
have held the Common Shares. A distribution of an amount in excess of the
Fund's earnings and profits is treated as a non-taxable return of capital that
reduces your tax basis in your Common Shares; any such distributions in excess
of your basis are treated as gain from a sale of your shares. The tax treatment
of your dividends and distributions will be the same regardless of whether they
were paid to you in cash or reinvested in additional Common Shares.


   Because the Fund does not intend to invest its assets in securities a
significant portion of whose dividends would qualify for treatment as
"qualified dividend income" or the Dividends Received Deduction, any
shareholder who otherwise would qualify for reduced tax rates on "qualified
dividend income" or for the Dividends Received Deduction should not assume that
dividends paid to it out of the Fund generally will qualify for treatment as
"qualified dividend income" or the Dividends Received Deduction. To the extent
that the Fund holds common stocks that pay dividends, a portion of the
distributions from the Fund may qualify for treatment as "qualified dividend
income" or the Dividends Received Deduction.


   A distribution will be treated as paid to you on December 31 of the current
calendar year if it is declared by the Fund in October, November or December
with a record date in such a month and paid during January of the following
year.

                                      64



   Each year, we will notify you of the tax status of dividends and other
distributions.

   If you sell Common Shares, you may realize a capital gain or loss which will
be long-term or short-term, depending on your holding period for the shares.

   We may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax from all taxable
distributions payable if you:

  .  fail to provide us with your correct taxpayer identification number;

  .  fail to make required certifications; or

  .  have been notified by the Internal Revenue Service that you are subject to
     backup withholding.


   As modified by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003,
the backup withholding rate is 28% for amounts paid through 2010, after which
time the rate will increase to 31% absent legislative change. This withholding
is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against your
U.S. federal income tax liability.


   Federal tax law imposes an alternative minimum tax with respect to
individuals and corporations. Under current law, it is not expected that you
will be subject to alternative minimum tax as a result of your investment in
the Fund.

   The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify as a regulated
investment company under the Code. If the Fund so qualifies and distributes
each year to its shareholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable
income, the Fund will not be required to pay federal income taxes on any income
it distributes to shareholders. If the Fund distributes less than an amount
equal to the sum of 98% of its ordinary income and 98% of its capital gain net
income and such amounts from previous years that were not distributed, then the
Fund will be subject to a 4% excise tax on the undistributed amounts. Fund
distributions also may be subject to state and local taxes. You should consult
with your own tax advisor regarding the particular consequences to you of
investing in the Fund.

   The Fund may invest in preferred or convertible securities or other
securities the federal income tax treatment of which is uncertain or subject to
recharacterization by the Internal Revenue Service. To the extent the tax
treatment of such securities or their income differs from the tax treatment
expected by the Fund, it could affect the timing or character of income
recognized by the Fund, requiring the Fund to purchase or sell securities, or
otherwise change its portfolio, in order to comply with the tax rules
applicable to regulated investment companies under the Code.


   The Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (the "Act")
reduced the maximum tax rate on long-term capital gains of noncorporate
investors from 20% to 15%. The Act also reduced to 15% the maximum tax rate on
"qualified dividend income" received by noncorporate shareholders; to be
eligible for this reduced rate, a shareholder must satisfy certain holding
period requirements. In the case of a regulated investment company, the amount
of dividends paid by the company that may be eligible for the reduced rate may
not exceed the amount of aggregate qualifying dividends received by the
company. To the extent the Fund distributes amounts of dividends, including
capital gain dividends, eligible for the reduced rates, it will identify the
relevant amounts in its annual tax information reports to its shareholders.
Without further legislative change, the rate reductions enacted by the Act will
lapse, and the previous rates will be reinstated, for taxable years beginning
on or after January 1, 2009.


                                      65



                                 UNDERWRITING

   Subject to the terms and conditions stated in the underwriting agreement
dated the date hereof, each Underwriter named below has severally agreed to
purchase, and the Fund has agreed to sell to such Underwriter, the number of
Common Shares set forth opposite the name of such Underwriter.




                                                                         Number of
Underwriters                                                              Shares
------------                                                            -----------
                                                                     
Citigroup Global Markets Inc...........................................
Nuveen Investments, LLC................................................
A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc...............................................
Prudential Securities Incorporated.....................................
Wachovia Securities, LLC...............................................
Advest, Inc............................................................
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated.....................................
H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc......................................
Crowell, Weedon & Co...................................................
Fahnestock & Co. Inc...................................................
Ferris, Baker Watts, Incorporated......................................
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC............................................
Legg Mason Wood Walker, Incorporated...................................
McDonald Investments Inc., a KeyCorp Company...........................
Quick & Reilly, Inc. A FleetBoston Financial Company...................
RBC Dain Rauscher Inc..................................................
Ryan Beck & Co., Inc...................................................
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated...............................
TD Waterhouse Investor Services, Inc...................................
Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc..........................................
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC............................................
                                                                        -----------
   Total...............................................................
                                                                        ===========



   The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the several
Underwriters to purchase the Common Shares included in this offering are
subject to approval of certain legal matters by counsel and to certain other
conditions. The Underwriters are obligated to purchase all the Common Shares
(other than those covered by the over-allotment option described below) if they
purchase any of the Common Shares. The representatives have advised the Fund
that the Underwriters do not intend to confirm any sales to any accounts over
which they exercise discretionary authority.


   The Underwriters, for whom Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Nuveen
Investments, LLC, A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc., Prudential Securities
Incorporated, Wachovia Securities, LLC, Advest, Inc., Robert W. Baird & Co.
Incorporated, H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc., Crowell, Weedon & Co.,
Fahnestock & Co. Inc., Ferris, Baker Watts, Incorporated, Janney Montgomery
Scott LLC, Legg Mason Wood Walker, Incorporated, McDonald Investments Inc., a
KeyCorp Company, Quick & Reilly, Inc. A FleetBoston Financial Company, RBC Dain
Rauscher Inc., Ryan Beck & Co., Inc., Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated,
TD Waterhouse Investor Services, Inc., Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc. and Wells
Fargo Securities, LLC are acting as representatives, propose to offer some of
the Common Shares directly to the public at the public offering price set forth
on the cover page of this Prospectus and some of the Common Shares to certain
dealers at the public offering price less a concession not in excess of $0.45
per Common Share. The sales load the Fund will pay of $0.675 per share is equal
to 4.5% of the initial offering price. The Underwriters may allow, and such
dealers may reallow, a concession not in


                                      66



excess of $     per Common Share on sales to certain other dealers. If all of
the Common Shares are not sold at the initial offering price, the
representatives may change the public offering price and other selling terms.
Investors must pay for any Common Shares purchased on or before            ,
2003. In connection with this offering, Nuveen may perform clearing services
without charge for brokers and dealers for whom it regularly provides clearing
services that are participating in the offering as members of the selling group.

   The Fund has granted to the Underwriters an option, exercisable for 45 days
from the date of this Prospectus, to purchase up to            additional
Common Shares at the public offering price less the sales load. The
Underwriters may exercise such option solely for the purpose of covering
over-allotments, if any, in connection with this offering. To the extent such
option is exercised, each Underwriter will be obligated, subject to certain
conditions, to purchase a number of additional Common Shares approximately
proportionate to such Underwriter's initial purchase commitment.

   The Fund and the Advisers have each agreed that, for a period of 180 days
from the date of this Prospectus, they will not, without the prior written
consent of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., on behalf of the Underwriters,
dispose of or hedge any Common Shares or any securities convertible into or
exchangeable for Common Shares. Citigroup Global Markets Inc., in its sole
discretion may release any of the securities subject to these agreements at any
time without notice.

   Prior to the offering, there has been no public market for the Common
Shares. Consequently, the initial public offering price for the Common Shares
was determined by negotiation among the Fund, NIAC and the representatives.
There can be no assurance, however, that the price at which the Common Shares
will sell in the public market after this offering will not be lower than the
price at which they are sold by the Underwriters or that an active trading
market in the Common Shares will develop and continue after this offering. The
Common Shares have been approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange,
subject to official notice of issuance.

   The Fund and the Advisers have each agreed to indemnify the several
Underwriters or contribute to losses arising out of certain liabilities,
including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

   Nuveen has agreed to pay (i) all organizational expenses and (ii) offering
costs (other than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per share.

   In addition, the Fund has agreed to reimburse the Underwriters for certain
expenses incurred by the Underwriters in the offering.


   Certain Underwriters participating in the Common Share offering may be
invited, some period of time after completion of this offering, to participate
in the offering of the FundPreferred shares and will receive compensation for
their participation in that FundPreferred share offering. The number of Common
Shares purchased by each Underwriter in this offering may be a factor in
determining (i) whether that Underwriter is selected to participate in the
offering of the FundPreferred shares, (ii) the number of FundPreferred shares
allocated to that Underwriter in that offering, and (iii) the amount of certain
additional FundPreferred share underwriting compensation available to that
Underwriter. The offering costs associated with the issuance of FundPreferred
shares are currently estimated to be approximately 2.09% of the total amount of
the FundPreferred share offering. These costs will effectively be borne by the
Common Shareholders.


                                      67



   In connection with the requirements for listing the Fund's Common Shares on
the New York Stock Exchange, the Underwriters have undertaken to sell lots of
100 or more Common Shares to a minimum of 2,000 beneficial owners in the United
States. The minimum investment requirement is 100 Common Shares.

   Certain Underwriters may make a market in the Common Shares after trading in
the Common Shares has commenced on the New York Stock Exchange. No Underwriter
is, however, obligated to conduct market-making activities and any such
activities may be discontinued at any time without notice, at the sole
discretion of the Underwriter. No assurance can be given as to the liquidity
of, or the trading market for, the Common Shares as a result of any
market-making activities undertaken by any Underwriter. This Prospectus is to
be used by any Underwriter in connection with the offering and, during the
period in which a prospectus must be delivered, with offers and sales of the
Common Shares in market-making transactions in the over-the-counter market at
negotiated prices related to prevailing market prices at the time of the sale.

   The Underwriters have advised the Fund that, pursuant to Regulation M under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, certain persons participating
in the offering may engage in transactions, including stabilizing bids,
covering transactions or the imposition of penalty bids, which may have the
effect of stabilizing or maintaining the market price of the Common Shares on
the New York Stock Exchange at a level above that which might otherwise prevail
in the open market. A "stabilizing bid" is a bid for or purchase of the Common
Shares on behalf of an Underwriter for the purpose of fixing or maintaining the
price of the Common Shares. A "covering transaction" is a bid for or purchase
of the Common Shares on behalf of an Underwriter to reduce a short position
incurred by the Underwriters in connection with the offering. A "penalty bid"
is a contractual arrangement whereby if, during a specified period after the
issuance of the Common Shares, the Underwriters purchase Common Shares in the
open market for the account of the underwriting syndicate and the Common Shares
purchased can be traced to a particular Underwriter or member of the selling
group, the underwriting syndicate may require the Underwriter or selling group
member in question to purchase the Common Shares in question at the cost price
to the syndicate or may recover from (or decline to pay to) the Underwriter or
selling group member in question any or all compensation (including, with
respect to a representative, the applicable syndicate management fee)
applicable to the Common Shares in question. As a result, an Underwriter or
selling group member and, in turn, brokers may lose the fees that they
otherwise would have earned from a sale of the Common Shares if their customer
resells the Common Shares while the penalty bid is in effect. The Underwriters
are not required to engage in any of these activities, and any such activities,
if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.

   The underwriting agreement provides that it may be terminated in the
absolute discretion of the representatives without liability on the part of the
Underwriters to the Fund or the Advisers if, prior to the delivery of and
payment for the Common Shares, (i) trading in the Fund's Common Shares shall
have been suspended by the Securities and Exchange Commission or the New York
Stock Exchange or trading in securities generally on the New York Stock
Exchange shall have been suspended or limited or minimum prices for trading in
securities generally shall have been established on the New York Stock
Exchange, (ii) a commercial banking moratorium shall have been declared by
either federal or New York state authorities or (iii) there shall have occurred
any outbreak or escalation of hostilities, declaration by the United States of
a national emergency or war, or other calamity or crisis the effect of which on
financial markets in the United States is such as to make it, in the sole
judgment of the

                                      68



representatives, impracticable or inadvisable to proceed with the offering or
delivery of the Common Shares as contemplated by the Prospectus (exclusive of
any supplement thereto).

   The Fund anticipates that from time to time certain of the Underwriters may
act as brokers or dealers in connection with the execution of the Fund's
portfolio transactions after they have ceased to be Underwriters and, subject
to certain restrictions, may act as brokers while they are Underwriters.

   Prior to the public offering of Common Shares, NIAC purchased Common Shares
from the Fund in an amount satisfying the net worth requirements of Section
14(a) of the 1940 Act. As of the date of this Prospectus, NIAC owned 100% of
the outstanding Common Shares. NIAC may be deemed to control the Fund until
such time as it owns less than 25% of the outstanding Common Shares, which is
expected to occur as of the completion of the offering of Common Shares.

   Nuveen, 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606, one of the
representatives of the Underwriters, is an affiliate of NIAC.

   The principal business address of Citigroup Global Markets Inc. is 388
Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10013.

                         CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT

   The custodian of the assets of the Fund is State Street Bank and Trust
Company, One Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110. The Custodian
performs custodial, fund accounting and portfolio
accounting services. The Fund's transfer, shareholder services and dividend
paying agent is also State Street Bank and Trust Company, 225 Franklin Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02110.

                                LEGAL OPINIONS


   Certain legal matters in connection with the Common Shares will be passed
upon for the Fund by Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC, Chicago, Illinois, and for the
Underwriters by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, New York, New York. Bell, Boyd
& Lloyd LLC and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP may rely as to certain matters
of Massachusetts law on the opinion of Bingham McCutchen LLP, Boston,
Massachusetts.


                                      69



                           TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THE
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION



                                                                    Page
                                                                    ----
                                                                 
        Use of Proceeds............................................   3
        Investment Objectives......................................   3
        Investment Restrictions....................................   3
        Investment Policies and Techniques.........................   6
        Investment Philosophy and Process..........................   6
        Other Investment Policies and Techniques...................   9
        Management of the Fund.....................................  15
        Investment Advisers........................................  20
        Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage.......................  24
        Distributions..............................................  26
        Description of Shares......................................  26
        Certain Provisions in the Declaration of Trust.............  30
        Repurchase of Fund Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund.....  32
        Tax Matters................................................  34
        Performance Related and Comparative Information............  38
        Experts....................................................  41
        Custodian and Transfer Agent...............................  41
        Additional Information.....................................  41
        Report of Independent Auditors.............................  42
        Financial Statements.......................................  43
        Appendix A--Ratings of Investments......................... A-1
        Appendix B--Performance Related and Comparative Information B-1


                                      70



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                         Shares


                       Nuveen Preferred and Convertible
                                 Income Fund 2

                                 Common Shares

                                   --------

                                  PROSPECTUS

                                          , 2003

                                   --------

                                   Citigroup
                            Nuveen Investments, LLC
                           A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.
                             Prudential Securities
                              Wachovia Securities
                                 Advest, Inc.
                             Robert W. Baird & Co.
                      H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc.
                             Crowell, Weedon & Co.
                             Fahnestock & Co. Inc.
                              Ferris, Baker Watts
                                 Incorporated
                          Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
                            Legg Mason Wood Walker
                                 Incorporated
                           McDonald Investments Inc.
                             Quick & Reilly, Inc.
                              RBC Capital Markets
                                Ryan Beck & Co.
                          Stifel, Nicolaus & Company
                                 Incorporated
                                 TD Waterhouse
                        Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc.
                          Wells Fargo Securities, LLC

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   FRH-PC2-0503




                SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED       , 2003

     The information in this Statement of Additional Information is not complete
and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration
statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This
Statement of Additional Information 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.


                 NUVEEN PREFERRED AND CONVERTIBLE INCOME FUND 2

                       STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2 (the "Fund") is a newly
organized, diversified, closed-end management investment company.

     This Statement of Additional Information relating to common shares of the
Fund ("Common Shares") does not constitute a prospectus, but should be read in
conjunction with the Fund's Prospectus relating thereto dated _____ __, 2003,
(the "Prospectus"). This Statement of Additional Information does not include
all information that a prospective investor should consider before purchasing
Common Shares. Investors should obtain and read the Fund's Prospectus prior to
purchasing such shares. A copy of the Fund's Prospectus may be obtained without
charge by calling (800) 257-8787. You may also obtain a copy of the Fund's
Prospectus on the Securities and Exchange Commission's web site
(http://www.sec.gov). Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Statement
of Additional Information have the meanings ascribed to them in the Prospectus.




                                TABLE OF CONTENTS



                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
                                                                        
Use of Proceeds.............................................................. 3
Investment Objectives.........................................................3
Investment Restrictions ......................................................3
Investment Policies and Techniques............................................6
Investment Philosophy and Process ............................................6
Other Investment Policies and Techniques......................................9
Management of the Fund.......................................................15
Investment Advisers..........................................................20
Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage.........................................24
Distributions ...............................................................26
Description of Shares........................................................26
Certain Provisions in the Declaration of Trust...............................30
Repurchase of Fund Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund.......................32
Tax Matters..................................................................34
Performance Related and Comparative Information..............................38
Experts......................................................................41
Custodian and Transfer Agent.................................................41
Additional Information.......................................................41
Report of Independent Auditors...............................................42
Financial Statements.........................................................43
Ratings of Investments (Appendix A)........................................ A-1
Performance Related and Comparative Information (Appendix B)............... B-1



This Statement of Additional Information is dated _____ __, 2003.

                                        2




                                 USE OF PROCEEDS

     The net proceeds of the offering of Common Shares of the Fund will be
approximately: $________ ($________ if the Underwriters exercise the
over-allotment option in full) after payment of organization and offering costs.

     For the Fund, Nuveen has agreed to pay (i) all organizational expenses and
(ii) offering costs (other than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per Common Share.

     Pending investment in preferred, convertible and other debt instruments
that meet the Fund's investment objectives and policies, the net proceeds of the
offering will be invested in short-term or long-term U.S. government securities
or high quality, short-term money market instruments.

                              INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES

     The Fund's primary objective is high current income. The Fund's secondary
objective is total return. There can be no assurance that the Fund's investment
objectives will be achieved.

     The Fund cannot change its investment objectives without the approval of
the holders of a "majority of the outstanding" Common Shares and FundPreferred
shares voting together as a single class, and of the holders of a "majority of
the outstanding" FundPreferred shares voting as a separate class. When used with
respect to particular shares of the Fund, a "majority of the outstanding" shares
means (i) 67% or more of the shares present at a meeting, if the holders of more
than 50% of the shares are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than
50% of the shares, whichever is less. See "Description of Shares--FundPreferred
Shares--Voting Rights" in the Fund's Prospectus and "Description of
Shares--FundPreferred Shares--Voting Rights" in this Statement of Additional
Information for additional information with respect to the voting rights of
holders of FundPreferred shares.

                            INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS

     Except as described below, the Fund, as a fundamental policy, may not,
without the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding Common
Shares and, if issued, FundPreferred shares voting together as a single class,
and of the holders of a majority of the outstanding FundPreferred shares voting
as a separate class:

          (1) Issue senior securities, as defined in the Investment Company Act
     of 1940, other than (i) preferred shares which immediately after issuance
     will have asset coverage of at least 200%, (ii) indebtedness which
     immediately after issuance will have asset coverage of at least 300%, or
     (iii) the borrowings permitted by investment restriction (2) set forth
     below;

                                        3




                  (2) Borrow money, except as permitted by the Investment
         Company Act of 1940 and exemptive orders granted under the Investment
         Company Act of 1940;


                  (3) Act as underwriter of another issuer's securities, except
         to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter within
         the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in connection with the
         purchase and sale of portfolio securities or acting as an agent or one
         of a group of co-agents in originating corporate loans;


                  (4) Invest more than 25% of its total assets in securities of
         issuers in any one industry other than the financial services industry;
         provided, however, that such limitation shall not apply to obligations
         issued or guaranteed by the United States Government or by its agencies
         or instrumentalities, and provided further that for purposes of this
         limitation, the term "issuer" shall not include a lender selling a
         participation to the Fund together with any other person
         interpositioned between such lender and the Fund with respect to a
         participation;

                  (5) Purchase or sell real estate, except pursuant to the
         exercise by the Fund of its rights under loan agreements and except to
         the extent that interests in corporate loans the Fund may invest in are
         considered to be interests in real estate, and this shall not prevent
         the Fund from investing in securities of companies that deal in real
         estate or are engaged in the real estate business, including real
         estate investment trusts, and securities secured by real estate or
         interests therein and the Fund may hold and sell real estate or
         mortgages on real estate acquired through default, liquidation, or
         other distributions of an interest in real estate as a result of the
         Fund's ownership of such securities;

                  (6) Purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a
         result of ownership of securities or other instruments except pursuant
         to the exercise by the Fund of its rights under loan agreements and
         except to the extent that interests in corporate loans the Fund may
         invest in are considered to be interests in commodities and this shall
         not prevent the Fund from purchasing or selling options, futures
         contracts, derivative instruments or from investing in securities or
         other instruments backed by physical commodities;


                  (7) Make loans except as permitted by the Investment Company
         Act of 1940 and exemptive orders granted under the Investment Company
         Act of 1940; and


                  (8) With respect to 75% of the value of the Fund's total
         assets, purchase any securities (other than obligations issued or
         guaranteed by the United States Government or by its agencies or
         instrumentalities), if as a result more than 5% of the Fund's total
         assets would then be invested in securities of a single issuer or if as
         a result the Fund would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting
         securities of any single issuer, and provided further that for purposes
         of this restriction, the term "issuer" includes both the borrower under
         a loan agreement and the lender selling a participation to the Fund
         together with any other persons interpositioned between such lender and
         the Fund with respect to a participation.


         For purposes of the foregoing and "Description of Shares--
FundPreferred Shares--Voting Rights" below, "majority of the outstanding," when
used with respect to particular shares of the Fund, means (i) 67% or more of the
shares present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the shares are
present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the shares, whichever
is less.



         For the purpose of applying the limitation set forth in subparagraph
(8) above, an issuer shall be deemed the single issuer of a security when its
assets and revenues are separate from other governmental entities and its
securities are backed only by its assets and revenues. Similarly, in the case of
a non-governmental issuer, such as an industrial corporation or a privately
owned or operated hospital, if the security is backed only by the assets and
revenues of the non-governmental issuer, then such non-governmental issuer would
be deemed to be the single issuer. Where a security is also backed by the
enforceable obligation of a superior or unrelated governmental or other entity
(other than a bond insurer), it shall also be included in the

                                      4




computation of securities owned that are issued by such governmental or other
entity. Where a security is guaranteed by a governmental entity or some other
facility, such as a bank guarantee or letter of credit, such a guarantee or
letter of credit would be considered a separate security and would be treated as
an issue of such government, other entity or bank. When a municipal bond is
insured by bond insurance, it shall not be considered a security that is issued
or guaranteed by the insurer; instead, the issuer of such municipal bond will be
determined in accordance with the principles set forth above.




         Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Fund may invest only up
to 10% of its Managed Assets in the aggregate in shares of other investment
companies and only up to 5% of its Managed Assets in any one investment company,
provided the investment does not represent more than 3% of the voting stock of
the acquired investment company at the time such shares are purchased. As a
stockholder in any investment company, the Fund will bear its ratable share of
that investment company's expenses, and will remain subject to payment of the
Fund's management, advisory and administrative fees with respect to assets so
invested. Holders of Common Shares would therefore be subject to duplicative
expenses to the extent the Fund invests in other investment companies. In
addition, the securities of other investment companies may also be leveraged and
will therefore be subject to the same leverage risks described herein. As
described in the Prospectus in the section entitled "Risks," the net asset value
and market value of leveraged shares will be more volatile and the yield to
shareholders will tend to fluctuate more than the yield generated by unleveraged
shares.


         In addition to the foregoing fundamental investment policies, the Fund
is also subject to the following non-fundamental restrictions and policies,
which may be changed by the Board of Trustees. The Fund may not:


                  (1) Sell securities short, except that the Fund may make short
         sales of securities if, at all times when a short position is open, the
         Fund owns at least an equal amount of such securities or securities
         convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any further
         consideration, securities of the same issuer as, and equal in amount
         to, the securities sold short, and provided that transactions in
         options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, or other
         derivative instruments are not deemed to constitute selling securities
         short.



                  (2) Purchase securities of open-end or closed-end investment
         companies except in compliance with the Investment Company Act of 1940
         or any exemptive relief obtained thereunder. The Fund will rely on
         representations of borrowers in loan agreements in determining whether
         such borrowers are investment companies.



                  (3) Purchase securities of companies for the purpose of
         exercising control, except to the extent that exercise by the Fund of
         its rights under loan agreements would be deemed to constitute
         exercising control.


         The restrictions and other limitations set forth above will apply only
at the time of purchase of securities and will not be considered violated unless
an excess or deficiency occurs or exists immediately after and as a result of an
acquisition of securities.

         The Fund intends to apply for ratings for its FundPreferred shares
from a nationally recognized statistical rating organization ("NRSRO")
(typically, Moody's, S&P or Fitch). In order to obtain and maintain the required
ratings, the Fund may be required to comply with investment quality,
diversification and other guidelines established by the NRSRO. Such guidelines
will likely be more restrictive than the restrictions set forth above. The Fund
may also be subject to certain restrictions and guidelines imposed by


                                      5



lenders if the Fund engages in Borrowings. The Fund does not anticipate that
such guidelines would have a material adverse effect on its Common Shareholders
or the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objectives. The Fund presently
anticipates that any FundPreferred shares that it intends to issue initially
would be given at least a AA/Aa rating by such NRSRO -- Moody's ("Aa"), S&P
("AA") or Fitch ("AA") -- but no assurance can be given that such ratings will
be obtained. NRSROs receive fees in connection with their ratings issuances.

                       INVESTMENT POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES

     The following information supplements the discussion of the Fund's
investment objectives, policies, and techniques that are described in the Fund's
Prospectus.

     The Fund's primary investment objective is high current income. The Fund's
secondary objective is total return. There can be no assurance that the Fund's
investment objectives will be achieved.

     Under normal circumstances, the Fund:

     .    will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in preferred
          securities, convertible securities and related instruments. The Fund
          intends that most or all of the preferred securities in which it
          invests will be fully taxable and will not be eligible for the
          dividends received deduction; and

     .    may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in other securities,
          including debt instruments and common stocks acquired upon conversion
          of a convertible security (such common stocks not normally to exceed
          5% of the Fund's Managed Assets).

     NIAC will be responsible for determining the Fund's overall investment
strategy, including allocating the portion of the Fund's assets to be invested
in preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt instruments. The
Fund's assets allocated to preferred securities will be managed by Spectrum. The
Fund's assets allocated to convertible securities will be managed by Froley,
Revy. The Fund's assets allocated to other debt instruments will be managed by
NIAC. Initially, NIAC will allocate approximately 60%, 30% and 10% of the Fund's
Managed Assets to preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments, respectively. Thereafter, the portion of the Fund's Managed Assets
invested in preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments will vary from time to time consistent with the Fund's investment
objectives, although the Fund will normally invest at least 50% of its Managed
Assets in preferred securities and at least 20% of its Managed Assets in
convertible securities (so long as the combined total equals at least 80% of the
Fund's Managed Assets). Convertible preferred securities will be regarded as
convertible securities for purposes of these limits. In making allocation
decisions, NIAC will consider factors such as interest rate levels, conditions
and developing trends in the bond and equity markets, analysis of relative
valuations for preferred, convertible and other debt instruments, and other
economic and market factors, including the overall outlook for the economy and
inflation.

     The Fund will invest at least 65% of its Managed Assets in securities that,
at the time of investment, are investment grade quality. Investment grade
quality securities are those securities that, at the time of investment, are (i)
rated by at least one of the NRSROs within the four highest grades (Baa or BBB
or better by Moody's, S&P or Fitch) or (ii) unrated but judged to be of
comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the investment. Split-rated
securities are considered to be investment grade quality securities, except that
to the extent the Fund owns split-rated securities that exceed 10% of its
Managed Assets, the excess over 10% will not be considered to be investment
grade quality. Initially, the Fund intends to invest approximately 75% of its
Managed Assets in investment grade quality securities. The Fund may invest up to
35% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at the time of investment, are not
investment grade quality. The Fund will only invest in securities that, at the
time of investment, are rated B or higher by at least one NRSRO or that are
unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for
the investment, except, however, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its Managed
Assets in securities with a highest rating of CCC or that are unrated but judged
to be of comparable quality by the Adviser responsible for the investment.

     The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Managed Assets in securities that, at
the time of investment, are illiquid (i.e., securities that are not readily
marketable). All securities and other instruments in which the Fund invests will
be subject to this 10% limitation to the extent they are deemed to be illiquid.
Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more than 5% of its Managed Assets
in illiquid securities. In addition, the Fund may invest up to 35% of its
Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Subject to this 35%
limitation, up to 10% of the Fund's Managed Assets may be invested in securities
that are denominated in Japanese yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros
and which may be offered, traded or listed in markets other than U.S. markets.
The remainder of the Fund's Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of
non-U.S. issuers will be invested in U.S. dollar denominated securities offered,
traded or listed in U.S. markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest
more than 20% of its Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers and does
not currently intend to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities
described above.

                       INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY AND PROCESS


     Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. (NIAC)

     Asset Allocation Philosophy. NIAC is responsible for the overall strategy
and asset allocation decisions among the three primary asset classes in which
the Fund invests - preferred securities, convertible securities and other debt
instruments. The goal of the allocation decision is to effectively capture the
diversification benefits provided by the low-correlation across these asset
classes and provide the potential for high income generation, an opportunity to
participate in rising equity markets and some protection against risks
associated with rising interest rates. NIAC believes that the opportunity will
exist from time to time to potentially enhance the Fund's total return by
over-weighting or under-weighting these asset classes as the relative
attractiveness of the asset classes changes.

     Asset Allocation Process. In determining the Fund's asset allocation, NIAC
will periodically consult with the Fund's Subadvisers and other investment
manager affiliates of NIAC. NIAC will consider factors such as interest rate
levels, conditions and developing trends in the bond and equity markets,
analysis of relative valuations for preferred, convertible and other debt
instruments, and other economic and market factors, including the overall
outlook for the economy and inflation.

     Investment Philosophy. NIAC is responsible for managing the other debt
instruments in which the Fund may invest. NIAC believes that managing risk,
particularly in a volatile asset class such as high yield debt, is of paramount
importance. NIAC believes that a combination of fundamental credit analysis and
valuation information that is available from the equity markets provide a means
of identifying what it believes to be superior investment candidates.
Additionally, NIAC focuses on liquid securities to ensure that exit strategies
remain viable throughout market cycles.

     Investment Process. NIAC begins with a quantitative screening of the
universe to identify investment candidates with favorable capital structures,
factor valuation and other equity market indicators. NIAC screens this universe
of securities for liquidity constraints and relative value opportunities to
determine investment candidates. Subsequently, the investment team performs
rigorous fundamental analysis to ensure sound industry fundamentals, cash flow
sufficiency and asset quality. The final portfolio is constructed using
proprietary risk factor and monitoring systems to ensure proper diversification.

     Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. (Spectrum)

     Investment Philosophy. Spectrum's investment philosophy with respect to
preferred securities is centered on several underlying themes:


..    High levels of current income are the primary return contributor to the
     total return potential of preferred securities.
..    Investing in the subordinated preferred securities of stronger,
     highly-rated issuers is potentially more advantageous than owing the
     senior debt of weaker, potentially deteriorating issuers.
..    Investment grade quality preferred securities, over time, present a very
     attractive risk/return opportunity.
..    Diversifying across a large number of different industries and issuers
     helps insulate an overall portfolio of preferred securities from events
     that affect any particular company or sector.
..    Inefficiencies in the preferred securities market, particularly in the
     pricing and trading of securities, can create opportunities to enhance
     portfolio value.


     Investment Process. Spectrum's investment process begins with macroeconomic
and fundamental credit analysis to identify sectors, industries and companies
that are potential investments. In its fundamental analysis, Spectrum employs a
value-oriented style that considers the relative attractiveness of the security
to other preferred securities and to the same issuer's senior debt. In addition,
Spectrum evaluates the structural features of each security as well as its
liquidity. In its investment decision, Spectrum also considers the contribution
of sectors and individual securities to the overall goal of achieving a
well-diversified portfolio.

     Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. (Froley, Revy)

     Investment Philosophy. Froley, Revy's investment philosophy with respect to
convertible securities is centered on the belief that convertible securities are
a total return vehicle that afford the opportunity to earn equity-like returns
with substantially reduced risk relative to equities, while providing some
current income. The firm believes that focusing on the mid-market sector of the
convertibles market while investing opportunistically in the bond-like and
equity-like areas of the convertible securities market may enhance total return
potential. In addition, the firm believes that because of the hybrid nature of
the asset class, research that emphasizes both fundamental credit analysis and
equity valuation analysis can help identify investment opportunities with the
greatest potential for enhancing a portfolio's overall total return.

     Investment Process. Froley, Revy's investment process begins with screening
the universe of convertible securities on certain valuation and structural
parameters, including price, yield, premium, calls, equity sensitivity and other
factors. On this pool of potential investments, Froley, Revy then conducts
credit (bond) analysis and valuation (equity) analysis to identify what it
believes to be the most attractive candidates within the universe. Additional
inputs into the sector and security selection decision are top down,
macroeconomic analysis of economic, interest rate and other trends and the
analysis of the structural characteristics of the individual securities.

     Froley, Revy monitors all securities and sectors on an on-going basis to
identify those that fall outside the intended investment range. Positions in
securities that have increased in value and equity sensitivity may be reduced to
normal position weights or sold entirely based on the fundamental outlook for
the underlying equity. In addition, Froley, Revy considers significant declines
from the purchase prices of securities in determining whether to purchase or
sell a particular security.



                                        6




PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

     Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its
Managed Assets in preferred securities, convertible securities and related
instruments. The Fund will notify shareholders at least 60 days prior to any
change in the 80% policy.

     Preferred Securities. The Fund intends that most or all of the preferred
securities in which it invests will be fully taxable and will not generate
dividends that qualify for treatment as "qualified dividend income" or the
Dividends Received Deduction. Preferred securities generally pay fixed or
adjustable rate dividends to investors, and have a "preference" over common
stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of a company's assets.
This means that a company must pay dividends on preferred stock before paying
any dividends on its common stock. In order to be payable, distributions on
preferred securities must be declared by the issuer's board of directors. Income
payments on typical preferred securities currently outstanding are cumulative,
causing dividends and distributions to accrue even if not declared by the board
of directors or otherwise made payable. There is no assurance that dividends or
distributions on the preferred securities in which the Fund invests will be
declared or otherwise made payable.

     Preferred stockholders usually have no right to vote for corporate
directors or on other matters.

     Shares of preferred securities have a liquidation value that generally
equals the original purchase price at the date of issuance. The market value of
preferred securities may be affected by favorable and unfavorable changes
impacting companies in the utilities and financial services sectors, which are
prominent issuers of preferred securities, and by actual and anticipated changes
in tax laws, such as changes in corporate income tax rates, income tax rates
applicable to capital gains and dividend income, and in the Dividends Received
Deduction.

     Because the claim on an issuer's earnings represented by preferred
securities may become onerous when interest rates fall below the rate payable on
such securities, the issuer may redeem the securities. Thus, in declining
interest rate environments in particular, the Fund's holdings of higher
rate-paying fixed rate preferred securities may be reduced and the Fund would be
unable to acquire securities paying comparable rates with the redemption
proceeds.

     The Fund intends that all of the preferred securities in which it will
invest will be investment grade quality at the time of investment. The average
call protection of the Fund's portfolio allocated to preferred securities is
expected to be approximately three to four years.

     Taxable preferred securities are treated in a similar fashion to
traditional preferred securities by several regulatory agencies, including the
Federal Reserve Bank, and by credit rating agencies, for various purposes, such
as the assignment of minimum capital ratios, over-collateralization rates and
diversification limits.

     Additional Information on Taxable Preferred Securities. See "The Fund's
Investments - Portfolio Composition - Taxable Preferred Securities" in the
Fund's Prospectus for a general description of taxable preferred securities.


     Convertible Securities. Convertible securities are bonds, debentures,
notes, preferred securities or other securities that may be converted or
exchanged (by the holder or the issuer) into shares of the underlying common
stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio or
predetermined price (the "conversion price"). Convertible securities have
general characteristics similar to both debt securities and common stocks. The
interest paid on convertible securities may be fixed or floating rate. Floating
rate convertible securities also may be issued in zero coupon form with an
original issue discount. See "Other Investment Policies and Techniques-Zero
Coupon and Payment-In-Kind Securities." Although to a lesser extent than with
debt securities, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as
interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase as interest rates
decline. In addition, because of the conversion feature, the market value of
convertible securities tends to vary with fluctuations in the market value of
the underlying common stocks and, therefore, will also react to the variations
in the general market for common stocks. Depending upon the relationship of the
conversion price to the market value of the underlying common stock, a
convertible security may trade more like a common stock than a debt instrument.


     Mandatory convertible securities are distinguished as a subset of
convertible securities because they may be called for conversion by the issuer
after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including at a
specified price) established upon its issuance. If a mandatory convertible
security is called for conversion, the Fund will be required to either convert
it into the underlying common stock or sell it to a third party, which may have
an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective.

     A convertible security generally entitles the holder to receive interest
paid or accrued until the convertible security matures or is redeemed, converted
or exchanged. Convertible securities rank senior to common stock in a
corporation's capital structure and, therefore, generally entail less risk than
the corporation's common stock, although the extent to which such risk is
reduced depends in large measure upon the degree to which the convertible
security sells above its value as a debt obligation. Before conversion,
convertible securities have characteristics similar to non-convertible debt
obligations and can provide for a stable stream of income with generally higher
yields than common stocks. However, convertible securities fall below debt
obligations of the same issuer in order of preference or priority in the event
of a liquidation, and are typically unrated or rated lower than such debt
obligations. In addition, contingent payment convertible securities allow the
issuer to claim deductions based on its nonconvertible cost of debt which
generally will result in deductions in excess of the actual cash payments made
on the securities (and accordingly, holders will recognize income in amounts in
excess of the cash payments received). There can be no assurance of current
income because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their
obligations. The convertible securities in which the Fund may invest may be
below investment grade quality. See "--High Yield Securities" below.

     Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields
than non-convertible securities of similar credit quality because of the
potential for capital appreciation. A convertible security, in addition to
providing current income, offers the potential for capital appreciation through
the conversion feature, which enables the holder to benefit from any increases
in the market price of the underlying common stock. The common stock underlying
convertible securities may be issued by a different entity than the issuer of
the convertible securities.

     The value of convertible securities is influenced by both the yield of
non-convertible securities of comparable issuers and by the value of the
underlying common stock. The value of a convertible security viewed without
regard to its conversion feature (i.e., strictly on the basis of its yield) is
sometimes referred to as its "investment value." The investment value of the
convertible security typically will fluctuate based on the credit quality of the
issuer and will fluctuate inversely with changes in prevailing interest rates.
However, at the same time, the convertible security will be influenced by its
"conversion value," which is the market value of the underlying common stock
that would be obtained if the convertible security were converted. Conversion
value fluctuates directly with the price of the underlying common stock, and
will therefore be subject to risks relating to the activities of the issuer
and/or general market and economic conditions. Depending upon the relationship
of the conversion price to the market value of the underlying security, a
convertible security may trade more like an equity security than a debt
instrument.

     If, because of a low price of the common stock, the conversion value is
substantially below the investment value of the convertible security, the price
of the convertible security is governed principally by its investment value. If
the conversion value of a convertible security increases to a point that
approximates or exceeds its investment value, the value of the security will be
principally influenced by its conversion value. A convertible security will sell
at a premium over its conversion value to the extent investors place value on
the right to acquire the underlying common stock while holding a fixed-income
security.

     Mandatory convertible securities are distinguished as a subset of
convertible securities because the conversion is not optional and the conversion
price at maturity (or redemption) is based solely upon the market price of the
underlying common stock, which may be significantly less than par or the price
(above or below par) paid. For these reasons, the risks associated with the
investing in mandatory convertible securities most closely resemble the risks
inherent in common stocks. Mandatory convertible securities customarily pay a
higher coupon yield to compensate for the potential risk of additional price
volatility and loss upon redemption. Since the correlation of common stock risk
increases as the security approaches its redemption date, there can be no
assurance that the higher coupon will compensate for the potential loss.

     Synthetic Convertible Securities. Although the Fund does not currently
intend to invest in synthetic convertible securities, the Fund may invest up to
10% of its Managed Assets in such securities. Synthetic convertible securities
possess the two principal characteristics of a true convertible security, i.e.,
a fixed-income security ("fixed-income component") and the right to acquire an
equity security ("convertible component"). If the Fund invests in synthetic
convertible securities, it is expected that the Fund will invest in such
synthetic convertible securities that are created by third parties, typically
investment banks or other financial institutions. Synthetic convertible
securities created by third parties typically trade as a single security with a
unitary value, similar to a true convertible security. The Fund may also invest
in synthetic convertible securities by acquiring separate securities, one
possessing a fixed-income component and the other possessing an equity
component. The fixed-income component is achieved by investing in
non-convertible, fixed-income securities such as bonds, debentures, notes,
preferred stocks and money market instruments. The equity component is achieved
by investing in warrants or options to buy common stock at a certain exercise
price, or options on a common stock index. Unlike a true convertible security or
a synthetic convertible security created by third parties, each of which is a
single security having a unitary market value, a synthetic convertible security
that is comprised of two or more separate securities will have a "market value"
that is the sum of the values of its fixed-income component and its equity
component. For this reason, the value of a synthetic convertible security that
is comprised of separate securities may respond differently to market
fluctuations than would a true convertible security or synthetic convertible
security created by a third party. More flexibility is possible in the assembly
of a synthetic convertible security than in the purchase of a convertible
security. Although synthetic convertible securities may be selected where the
two components are issued by a single issuer, thus making the synthetic
convertible security similar to the true convertible security, the character of
a synthetic convertible security allows the combination of components
representing distinct issuers, when an Adviser believes that such a combination
would better promote the Fund's investment objective. A synthetic convertible
security also is a more flexible investment in that its two components may be
purchased separately. For example, the Fund may purchase a warrant for inclusion
in a synthetic convertible security but temporarily hold short-term investments
while postponing the purchase of a corresponding bond pending development of
more favorable market conditions.

     A holder of a synthetic convertible security faces the risk of a decline in
the price of the security or the level of the index involved in the equity
component, causing a decline in the value of the call option or warrant
purchased to create the synthetic convertible security. Should the price of the
stock fall below the exercise price and remain there throughout the exercise
period, the entire amount paid for the call option or warrant would be lost.
Because a synthetic convertible security includes the fixed-income component as
well, the holder of a synthetic convertible security also faces the risk that
interest rates will rise, causing a decline in the value of the fixed-income
instrument. Convertible structured notes are fixed-income debentures linked to
equity, which have the attributes of a convertible security; however, the
investment bank that issued the convertible note, rather than the issuer of the
underlying common stock into which the note is convertible, assumes the credit
risk associated with the investment. The Fund's holdings of synthetic
convertible securities, including those created by third parties, are considered
convertible securities for purposes of the Fund's policy to invest at least 80%
of its Managed Assets in preferred securities and convertible securities.

Warrants to Purchase Securities

     The Fund may invest in warrants to purchase debt securities or equity
securities in connection with its investments in synthetic convertible
securities. A warrant to purchase equity securities is a right to purchase
common stock at a specific price (usually at a premium above the market value of
the underlying common stock at time of issuance) during a specified period of
time. Such a warrant may have a life ranging from less than a year to twenty
years or longer, but the warrant becomes worthless unless it is exercised or
sole before expiration. In addition, if the market price of the common stock
does not exceed an equity security warrant's exercise price during the life of
the warrant, the warrant will expire worthless. Equity security warrants have no
voting rights, pay no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of
the corporation issuing them. The percentage increase or decrease in the value
of an equity security warrant may be greater than the percentage increase or
decrease in the value of the underlying common stock.

     Debt obligations with warrants attached to purchase equity securities have
many characteristics of convertible securities and their prices may, to some
degree, reflect the performance of the underlying stock. Debt obligations also
may be issued with warrants attached to purchase additional debt securities at
the same coupon rate. A decline in interest rates would permit the Fund to buy
additional bonds at the favorable rate or to sell such warrants at a profit. If
interest rates rise, these warrants would generally expire with no value.

Options on Securities and Indexes


     In connection with its investments in synthetic convertible securities, the
Fund may purchase call options on common stocks and call options on common stock
indexes. The Fund may purchase call options on common stocks or common stock
indexes in standardized contracts traded on domestic or other securities
exchanges, boards of trade, or similar entities, or quoted on NASDAQ or on an
over-the-counter market.


     A call option on a security (or an index) is a contract that gives the
holder of the option, in return for a premium, the right to buy from the writer
of the option the security underlying the option (or the cash value of the
common stock index) at a specified exercise price at any time during the term of
the option. The writer of an option on a security has the obligation upon
exercise of the option to deliver the underlying security upon payment of the
exercise price. Upon exercise, the writer of an option on an index is obligated
to pay the difference between the cash value of the index and the exercise price
multiplied by the specified multiplier for the index option. (An index is
designed to reflect features of a particular securities market, a specific group
of financial instruments or securities, or certain economic indicators.)

     If an option purchased by the Fund expires unexercised, the Fund realizes a
capital loss equal to the premium paid. Prior to the earlier of exercise or
expiration, an exchange-traded option may be closed out by an offsetting
purchase or sale of an option of the same series (type, exchange, underlying
security or index, exercise price, and expiration). There can be no assurance,
however, that a closing purchase or sale transaction can be effected when the
Fund desires.

     The Fund may sell call options it has previously purchased, which could
result in a net gain or loss depending on whether the amount realized on the
sale is more or less than the premium and other transaction costs paid on the
call option which is sold. The principal factors affecting the market value of a
call option include supply and demand, interest rates, the current market price
of the underlying security or index in relation to the exercise price of the
option, the volatility of the underlying security or index, and the time
remaining until the expiration date.

     The premium paid for a call option purchased by the Fund is an asset of the
Fund. The value of an option purchased is marked to market daily and is valued
at the closing price on the exchange on which it is traded or, if not traded on
an exchange or no closing price is available, at the mean between the last bid
and asked prices.

     There are several risks associated with transactions in options on
securities and on indexes. For example, there are significant differences
between the securities and options markets that could result in an imperfect
correlation between these markets, causing a given transaction not to achieve
its objectives. A decision as to whether, when and how to use options involves
the exercise of skill and judgment, and even a well-conceived transaction may be
unsuccessful to some degree because of market behavior or unexpected events.

     If a call option purchased by the Fund is not sold when it has remaining
value, and if the market price of the underlying security remains less than or
equal to the exercise price, the Fund will lose its entire investment in the
option.

     There can be no assurance that a liquid market will exist when the Fund
seeks to close out an option position. If the Fund were unable to close out an
option that it had purchased on a security, it would have to exercise the option
in order to realize any profit or the option may expire worthless.

     If trading were suspended in an option purchased by the Fund, the Fund
would not be able to close out the option. If restrictions on exercise were
imposed, the Fund might be unable to exercise an option it has purchased.

     Short-Term/Long-Term Debt Securities; Defensive Position; Invest-Up Period.
Upon an Adviser's recommendation and for temporary defensive purposes or to keep
cash on hand fully invested, including the period during which the net proceeds
of the offering are being invested, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its
Managed Assets in cash equivalents and investment grade fixed-income securities.
In such a case, the Fund may not pursue or achieve its investment objectives.
These investments are defined to include, without limitation, the following:

                                        7



                  (1) U.S. government securities, including bills, notes and
         bonds differing as to maturity and rates of interest that are either
         issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury or by U.S. government
         agencies or instrumentalities. U.S. government agency securities
         include securities issued by (a) the Federal Housing Administration,
         Farmers Home Administration, Export-Import Bank of the United States,
         Small Business Administration, and the Government National Mortgage
         Association, whose securities are supported by the full faith and
         credit of the United States; (b) the Federal Home Loan Banks, Federal
         Intermediate Credit Banks, and the Tennessee Valley Authority, whose
         securities are supported by the right of the agency to borrow from the
         U.S. Treasury; (c) the Federal National Mortgage Association, whose
         securities are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S.
         government to purchase certain obligations of the agency or
         instrumentality; and (d) the Student Loan Marketing Association, whose
         securities are supported only by its credit. While the U.S. government
         provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored agencies
         or instrumentalities, no assurance can be given that it always will do
         so since it is not so obligated by law. The U.S. government, its
         agencies, and instrumentalities do not guarantee the market value of
         their securities. Consequently, the value of such securities may
         fluctuate.

                  (2) Certificates of Deposit issued against funds deposited in
         a bank or a savings and loan association. Such certificates are for a
         definite period of time, earn a specified rate of return, and are
         normally negotiable. The issuer of a certificate of deposit agrees to
         pay the amount deposited plus interest to the bearer of the certificate
         on the date specified thereon. Under current FDIC regulations, the
         maximum insurance payable as to any one certificate of deposit is
         $100,000; therefore, certificates of deposit purchased by the Fund may
         not be fully insured.

                  (3) Repurchase agreements, which involve purchases of debt
         securities. At the time the Fund purchases securities pursuant to a
         repurchase agreement, it simultaneously agrees to resell and redeliver
         such securities to the seller, who also simultaneously agrees to buy
         back the securities at a fixed price and time. This assures a
         predetermined yield for the Fund during its holding period, since the
         resale price is always greater than the purchase price and reflects an
         agreed-upon market rate. Such actions afford an opportunity for the
         Fund to invest temporarily available cash. The Fund may enter into
         repurchase agreements only with respect to obligations of the U.S.
         government, its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposit;
         or bankers' acceptances in which the Fund may invest. Repurchase
         agreements may be considered loans to the seller, collateralized by the
         underlying securities. The risk to the Fund is limited to the ability
         of the seller to pay the agreed-upon sum on the repurchase date; in the
         event of default, the repurchase agreement provides that the Fund is
         entitled to sell the underlying collateral. If the seller defaults
         under a repurchase agreement when the value of the underlying
         collateral is less than the repurchase price, the Fund could incur a
         loss of both principal and interest. The Fund's investment adviser
         monitors the value of the collateral at the time the action is entered
         into and at all times during the term of the repurchase agreement. The
         investment adviser does so in an effort to determine that the value of
         the collateral always equals or exceeds the agreed-upon repurchase
         price to be paid to the Fund. If the seller were to be subject to a
         federal bankruptcy proceeding, the ability of

                                      8



         the Fund to liquidate the collateral could be delayed or impaired
         because of certain provisions of the bankruptcy laws.


                  (4) Commercial paper, which consists of short-term unsecured
         promissory notes, including variable rate master demand notes issued by
         corporations to finance their current operations. Master demand notes
         are direct lending arrangements between the Fund and a corporation.
         There is no secondary market for such notes. However, they are
         redeemable by the Fund at any time. An Adviser will consider the
         financial condition of the corporation (e.g., earning power, cash flow,
         and other liquidity measures) and will continuously monitor the
         corporation's ability to meet all of its financial obligations, because
         the Fund's liquidity might be impaired if the corporation were unable
         to pay principal and interest on demand. Investments in commercial
         paper will be limited to commercial paper rated in the highest
         categories by a NRSRO and which mature within one year of the date of
         purchase or carry a variable or floating rate of interest.


                    OTHER INVESTMENT POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES

NON-U.S. SECURITIES

     The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets in securities of
non-U.S. issuers. Subject to this 35% limitation, up to 10% of the Fund's
Managed Assets may be invested in securities that are denominated in Japanese
yen, Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros and which may be offered, traded
or listed in markets other than U.S. markets. The remainder of the Fund's
Managed Assets that may be invested in securities of non-U.S. issuers will be
invested in U.S. dollar denominated securities offered, traded or listed in U.S.
markets. Initially, the Fund does not intend to invest more than 20% of its
Managed Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers, and does not currently intend
to invest in the non-U.S. dollar denominated securities described above. For
this purpose, securities of non-U.S. issuers include American Depository
Receipts (ADRs), Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) or other securities
representing underlying shares of non-U.S. issuers. Positions in those
securities are not necessarily denominated in the same currency as the common
stocks into which they may be converted. ADRs are receipts typically issued by
an American bank or trust company evidencing ownership of the underlying
securities. GDRs are U.S. dollar-denominated receipts evidencing ownership of
non-U.S. securities. Generally, ADRs, in registered form, are designed for the
U.S. securities markets and GDRs, in bearer form, are designed for use in
non-U.S. securities markets. The Fund may invest in sponsored or unsponsored
ADRs. In the case of an unsponsored ADR, the Fund is likely to bear its
proportionate share of the expenses of the depository and it may have greater
difficulty in receiving shareholder communications than it would have with a
sponsored ADR.

     Investors should understand and consider carefully the risks involved in
investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Investing in securities of non-U.S.
issuers involves certain considerations comprising both risks and opportunities
not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These
considerations include: (i) less publicly available information about non-U.S.
issuers or markets due to less rigorous disclosure or accounting standards or
regulatory practices; (ii) many non-U.S. markets are smaller, less liquid and
more volatile meaning that in a changing market, an Adviser may not be able to
sell the Fund's portfolio securities at times, in amounts and at prices it
considers reasonable; (iii) potential adverse effects of fluctuations in
currency exchange rates or controls on the value of the Fund's investments; (iv)
the economies of non-U.S. countries may grow at slower rates than expected or
may experience a downturn or recession; (v) the impact of economic, political,
social or diplomatic developments may adversely affect the securities markets;
(vi) withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Fund's return; (vii)
certain non-U.S. countries may impose restrictions on the ability of non-U.S.
issuers to make payments of principal and/or interest to investors located
outside the U.S., due to blockage of foreign currency exchanges or otherwise;
and (viii) possible seizure, expropriation or nationalization of the company or
its assets. These risks are more pronounced to the extent that the Fund invests
a significant amount of its investments in issuers located in one region.
Although an Adviser may hedge the Fund's exposure to certain of these risks,
including the foreign currency exchange rate risk, there can be no assurance
that the Fund will enter into hedging transactions at any time or at times or
under circumstances in which it might be advisable to do so.

         Although the Fund intends to invest in companies and government
securities of countries having stable political environments, there is the
possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure or
nationalization of non-U.S. bank deposits or other assets,

                                      9



establishment of exchange controls, the adoption of non-U.S. government
restrictions, or other adverse political, social or diplomatic developments that
could affect investment in non-U.S. issuers.

     Debt Obligations of Non-U.S. Governments. An investment in debt obligations
of non-U.S. governments and their political subdivisions (sovereign debt)
involves special risks that are not present in corporate debt obligations. The
non-U.S. issuer of the sovereign debt or the non-U.S. governmental authorities
that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay
principal or interest when due, and the Fund may have limited recourse in the
event of a default. During periods of economic uncertainty, the market prices of
sovereign debt may be more volatile than prices of debt obligations of U.S.
issuers. In the past, certain non-U.S. countries have encountered difficulties
in servicing their debt obligations, withheld payments of principal and interest
and declared moratoria on the payment of principal and interest on their
sovereign debt.

     A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay
interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash
flow situation, the extent of its non-U.S. currency reserves, the availability
of sufficient non-U.S. currency, the relative size of the debt service burden,
the sovereign debtor's policy toward its principal international lenders and
local political constraints. Sovereign debtors may also be dependent on expected
disbursements from non-U.S. governments, multilateral agencies and other
entities to reduce principal and interest arrearages on their debt. The failure
of a sovereign debtor to implement economic reforms, achieve specified levels of
economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may result in the
cancellation of third-party commitments to lend funds to the sovereign debtor,
which may further impair such debtor's ability or willingness to service its
debts.

     Eurodollar Instruments and Yankee Bonds. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar
instruments and Yankee bonds. Yankee bonds are U.S. dollar denominated bonds
typically issued in the U.S. by non-U.S. governments and their agencies and
non-U.S. banks and corporations. These investments involve risks that are
different from investments in securities issued by U.S. issuers, including
potential unfavorable political and economic developments, non-U.S. withholding
or other taxes, seizure of non-U.S. deposits, currency controls, interest
limitations or other governmental restrictions which might affect payment of
principal or interest.

BONDS

     The Fund may invest in a wide variety of bonds and related debt obligations
of varying maturities issued by U.S. and foreign corporations (including banks)
and other business entities, as well as governments and other issuers to borrow
money from investors. Bonds are fixed or variable rate debt obligations,
including bills, notes, debentures, money market instruments and similar
instruments and securities. Bonds generally are used by corporations,
governments and other issuers to borrow money from investors. The issuer pays
the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest and normally must repay the
amount borrowed on or before maturity. Certain bonds are "perpetual" in that
they have no maturity date. The Fund may invest up to 35% of its Managed Assets
in securities of foreign issuers, including corporate debt securities of foreign
issuers in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as
described in the Prospectus. See "Non-U.S. Securities" above.

     The Fund may also invest in corporate bonds that are generally used by
corporations as well as governments and other issuers to borrow money from
investors. The issuer pays the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest and
normally must repay the amount borrowed on or before maturity. The Fund may also
invest in corporate bonds that are below investment grade quality. See "--High
Yield Securities" below.

     The Fund's investments in bonds are subject to a number of risks described
in the Prospectus and elaborated upon elsewhere in this section of the Statement
of Additional Information, including interest rate risk, credit risk, high yield
risk, issuer risk, foreign (non-U.S.) investment risk, inflation risk, liquidity
risk, smaller company risk and management risk.


STRUCTURED NOTES

     The Fund may use structured notes, which are privately negotiated debt
obligations where the principal and/or interest is determined by reference to
the performance of a benchmark asset, market or interest rate (an "embedded
index"), such as selected securities, an index of securities or specified
interest rates, or the differential performance of two assets or markets.
Structured notes may be issued by corporations, including banks, as well as by
governmental agencies. Structured notes frequently are assembled in the form of
medium-term notes, but a variety of forms are available and may be used in
particular circumstances. The terms of such structured notes normally provide
that their principal and/or interest payments are to be adjusted upwards or
downwards (but ordinarily not below zero) to reflect changes in the embedded
index while the structured notes are outstanding. As a result, the interest
and/or principal payments that may be made on a structured product may vary
widely, depending on a variety of factors, including the volatility of the
embedded index and the effect of changes in the embedded index on principal
and/or interest payments. The rate of return on structured notes may be
determined by applying a multiplier to the performance or differential
performance of the referenced index(es) or other asset(s). Application of a
multiplier involves leverage that will serve to magnify the potential for gain
and the risk of loss.

     An Adviser may utilize structured notes for investment purposes and also
for risk management purposes, such as to reduce the duration and interest rate
sensitivity of the Fund's portfolio. While structured notes may offer the
potential for a favorable rate of return from time to time, they also entail
certain risks. Structured notes may be less liquid than other debt securities,
and the price of structured notes may be more volatile. In some cases, depending
on the terms of the embedded index, a structured note may provide that the
principal and/or interest payments may be adjusted below zero. Structured notes
also may involve significant credit risk and risk of default by the
counterparty. Although structured notes are not necessarily illiquid, NIAC
believes that currently most structured notes are illiquid. Like other
sophisticated strategies, the Fund's use of structured notes may not work as
intended. If the value of the embedded index changes in a manner other than that
expected by an Adviser, principal and/or interest payments received on the
structured notes may be substantially less than expected. Also, if an Adviser
uses structured notes to reduce the duration of the Fund's portfolio, this may
limit the Fund's return when having a longer duration would be beneficial (for
instance, when interest rates decline)

NO INVERSE FLOATING RATE SECURITIES

     The Fund will not invest in inverse floating rate securities, which are
securities that pay interest at rates that vary inversely with changes in
prevailing interest rates and which represent a leveraged investment in an
underlying security.

HIGH YIELD SECURITIES


     Non-investment grade quality securities are sometimes referred to as "high
yield" securities or "junk bonds." See also "--Split-Rated Securities."

     Investments in high yield securities generally provide greater income and
increased opportunity for capital appreciation than investments in higher
quality securities, but they also typically entail greater price volatility and
principal and income risk, including the possibility of issuer default and
bankruptcy. High yield securities are regarded as predominantly speculative with
respect to the issuer's continuing ability to meet principal and interest
payments. Issuers of high yield securities may be highly leveraged and may not
have available to them more traditional methods of financing. Securities in the
lowest investment grade category also may be considered to possess some
speculative characteristics by certain rating agencies. In addition, analysis of
the creditworthiness of issuers of high yield securities may be more complex
than for issuers of higher quality securities.

     High yield securities may be more susceptible to real or perceived adverse
economic and competitive industry conditions than investment grade securities. A
projection of an economic downturn or of a period of rising interest rates, for
example, could cause a decline in high yield security prices because the advent
of a recession could lessen the ability of an issuer to make principal and
interest payments on its debt obligations. If an issuer of high yield securities
defaults, in addition to risking payment of all or a portion of interest and
principal, the Fund may incur additional expenses to seek recovery. In the case
of high yield securities structured as zero-coupon or payment-in-kind
securities, their market prices will normally be affected to a greater extent by
interest rate changes, and therefore tend to be more volatile than securities
which pay interest currently and in cash. Each Adviser seeks to reduce these
risks through diversification, credit analysis and attention to current
developments and trends in both the economy and financial markets.

     The secondary market for high yield securities may not be as liquid as the
secondary market for more highly rated securities, a factor which may have an
adverse effect on the Fund's ability to dispose of a particular security. There
are fewer dealers in the market for high yield securities than for investment
grade obligations. The prices quoted by different dealers may vary significantly
and the spread between the bid and ask price is generally much larger than for
higher quality instruments. Under adverse market or economic conditions, the
secondary market for high yield securities could contract further, independent
of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer, and
these instruments may become illiquid. As a result, the Fund could find it more
difficult to sell these securities or may be able to sell the securities only at
prices lower than if such securities were widely traded. Prices realized upon
the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities, under these circumstances,
may be less than the prices used in calculating the Fund's net asset value.

     Adverse publicity and investor perceptions, whether or not based on
fundamental analysis, may decrease the values and liquidity of high yield
securities, especially in a thinly traded market. When secondary markets for
high yield securities are less liquid than the market for investment grade
securities, it may be more difficult to value the securities because such
valuation may require more research, and elements of judgment may play a greater
role in the valuation because there is less reliable, objective data available.
During periods of thin trading in these markets, the spread between bid and
asked prices is likely to increase significantly and the Fund may have greater
difficulty selling its portfolio securities. The Fund will be more dependent on
an Adviser's research and analysis when investing in high yield securities. Each
Adviser seeks to minimize the risks of investing in all securities through
in-depth credit analysis and attention to current developments in interest rates
and market conditions.

     A general description of the ratings of securities by Moody's and S&P is
set forth in Appendix A to this Statement of Additional Information. The ratings
of Moody's and S&P represent their opinions as to the quality of the securities
they rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are
not absolute standards of quality. Consequently, in the case of debt
obligations, certain debt obligations with the same maturity, coupon and rating
may have different yields while debt obligations with the same maturity and
coupon with different ratings may have the same yield. For these reasons, the
use of credit ratings as the sole method of evaluating high yield securities can
involve certain risks. For example, credit ratings evaluate the safety of
principal and interest payments, not the market value risk of high yield
securities. Also, credit rating agencies may fail to change credit ratings in a
timely fashion to reflect events since the security was last rated. The Advisers
do not rely solely on credit ratings when selecting securities for the Fund, and
develop their own independent analysis of issuer credit quality.

     The Fund's credit quality policies apply only at the time a security is
purchased, and the Fund is not required to dispose of a security in the event
that a rating agency or an Adviser downgrades its assessment of the credit
characteristics of a particular issue. In determining whether to retain or sell
such a security, an Adviser may consider such factors as an Adviser's assessment
of the credit quality of the issuer of such security, the price at which such
security could be sold and the rating, if any, assigned to such security by
other rating agencies. However, analysis of the creditworthiness of issuers of
high yield securities may be more complex than for issuers of higher quality
debt securities.

COMMON STOCK

     The Fund does not intend to purchase common stock as part of its investment
strategy. The Fund will have exposure to common stock risks by virtue of the
equity component of the convertible securities in which the Fund invests. The
Fund may hold common stocks in its portfolio upon conversion of a convertible
security, such holdings not normally to exceed 5% of the Fund's Managed Assets.
In addition, in keeping with the income focus of the Fund, the Fund expects to
sell any common stock holdings as soon as practicable after conversion of a
convertible security. Common stock generally represents an ownership interest in
an issuer. Although common stocks historically have generated higher average
returns than debt securities, common stocks also have experienced significantly
more volatility in those returns. An adverse event, such as an unfavorable
earnings report, may depress the value of a particular common stock held by the
Fund or to which it has exposure. Also, prices of common stocks are sensitive to
general movements in the stock market. A drop in the stock market may depress
the prices of common stocks held by the Fund or to which it has exposure.

SPLIT-RATED SECURITIES

     Split-rated securities are those securities that, at the time of
investment, are rated below investment grade by Moody's, S&P or Fitch, so long
as at least one NRSRO rates such securities within the four highest grades
(i.e., investment grade quality). This means that a split-rated security may be
regarded by one NRSRO (but by definition not by all NRSROs or by an Adviser) as
having predominately speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer's
capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and accordingly subject to a
greater risk of default. The prices of split-rated securities, in the view of
one but not all NRSROs, may be more sensitive to negative developments, such as
a decline in the issuer's revenues or a general economic downturn, than
securities without a split-rating.

CORPORATE LOANS

     The Fund may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in other debt
instruments including corporate loans. Corporate loans, as with the other types
of securities in which the Fund may invest, are counted for purposes of various
other limitations described in this Statement of Additional Information,
including the limitation on investing no more than 10% of the Fund's Managed
Assets in illiquid securities, to the extent such corporate loans are deemed to
be illiquid.


     Corporate loans, like most other debt obligations, are subject to the risk
of default. Default in the payment of interest or principal on a corporate loan
results in a reduction in income to the Fund, a reduction in the value of the
corporate loan and a decrease in the Fund's net asset value. This decrease in
the Fund's net asset value would be magnified by the Fund's use of leverage. The
risk of default increases in the event of an economic downturn or a substantial
increase in interest rates. An increased risk of default could result in a
decline in the value of corporate loans and in the Fund's net asset value.

     The Fund may acquire corporate loans of borrowers that are experiencing, or
are more likely to experience, financial difficulty, including corporate loans
of borrowers that have filed for bankruptcy protection. Borrowers may have
corporate loans or other outstanding debt obligations that are rated below
investment grade or that are unrated but of comparable quality to such
securities. Debt securities rated below investment grade are viewed by the
rating agencies as speculative and are commonly known as junk bonds.

     Corporate loans may not be rated at the time that the Fund purchases them.
If a corporate loan is rated at the time of purchase, the Adviser responsible
for the investment may consider the rating when evaluating the corporate loan
but the Adviser responsible for the investment may not view ratings as a
determinative factor in investment decisions. As a result, the Fund is more
dependent on an Adviser's credit analysis abilities. Because of the protective
terms of most corporate loans, it is possible that the Fund is more likely to
recover more of its investment in a defaulted corporate loan than would be the
case for most other types of defaulted debt securities. The values of corporate
loans of borrowers that have filed for bankruptcy protection or that are
experiencing payment difficulty will reflect, among other things, the assessment
of the Adviser responsible for the investment of the likelihood that the Fund
ultimately will receive repayment of the principal amount of such corporate
loans, the likely duration, if any, of a lapse in the scheduled payment of
interest and repayment of principal and prevailing interest rates.

     In the case of collateralized corporate loans, there is no assurance that
sale of the collateral would raise enough cash to satisfy the borrower's payment
obligation or that the collateral can or will be liquidated. In the event of
bankruptcy, liquidation may not occur and the court may not give lenders the
full benefit of their senior positions. If the terms of a corporate loan do not
require the borrower to pledge additional collateral in the event of a decline
in the value of the original collateral, the Fund will be exposed to the risk
that the value of the collateral will not at all times equal or exceed the
amount of the borrower's obligations under the corporate loan. To the extent
that a corporate loan is collateralized by stock in the borrower or its
subsidiaries, such stock may lose all of its value in the event of bankruptcy of
the borrower. Uncollateralized corporate loans involve a greater risk of loss.
Some corporate loans in which the Fund may invest are subject to the risk that a
court, pursuant to fraudulent conveyance or other similar laws, could
subordinate such corporate loans to presently existing or future indebtedness of
the borrower or take other action detrimental to the holders of corporate loans,
such as the Fund, including, under certain circumstances, invalidating such
corporate loans. Lenders commonly have certain obligations pursuant to the loan
agreement, which may include the obligation to make additional loans or release
collateral in certain circumstances.

     Information about most corporate loans is less readily available and
reliable than is the case for many other types of securities. In addition, there
is no minimum rating or other independent evaluation of a borrower or its
securities limiting the Fund's investments. The Adviser responsible for the
investment may rely exclusively or primarily on its own evaluation of borrower
credit quality in selecting corporate loans for purchase. As a result, the Fund
is particularly dependent on the analytical abilities of the Adviser responsible
for the investment.

     No active trading market currently exists for many corporate loans.
Corporate loans are thus relatively illiquid. Liquidity relates to the ability
of the Fund to sell an investment in a timely manner at a price approximately
equal to its value on the Fund's books. The illiquidity of corporate loans may
impair the Fund's ability to realize the full value of its assets in the event
of a voluntary or involuntary liquidation of such assets. Because of the lack of
an active trading market, illiquid securities are also difficult to value and
prices provided by external pricing services may not reflect the true fair value
of the securities. However, many corporate loans are of a large principal amount
and are held by a large number of financial institutions. It is possible that
this should enhance their liquidity. In addition, in recent years the number of
institutional investors purchasing corporate loans has increased. The risks of
illiquidity are particularly important when the Fund's operations require cash,
and may in certain circumstances require that the Fund borrow to meet short-term
cash requirements. To the extent that a secondary market does exist for certain
corporate loans, the market may be subject to irregular trading activity, wide
bid/ask spreads and extended trade settlement periods. The market for corporate
loans could be disrupted in the event of an economic downturn or a substantial
increase or decrease in interest rates. This could result in increased
volatility in the market and in the Fund's net asset value and market price per
share.

     If legislation or state or federal regulators impose additional
requirements or restrictions on the ability of financial institutions to make
loans that are considered highly leveraged transactions, the availability of
corporate loans for investment by the Fund may be adversely affected. In
addition, such requirements or restrictions could reduce or eliminate sources of
financing for certain borrowers. This would increase the risk of default. If
legislation or federal or state regulators require financial institutions to
dispose of corporate loans that are considered highly leveraged transactions or
subject such corporate loans to increased regulatory scrutiny, financial
institutions may determine to sell such corporate loans. Such sales could result
in prices that, in the opinion of the Adviser, do not represent fair value. If
the Fund attempts to sell a corporate loan at a time when a financial
institution is engaging in such a sale, the price the Fund could get for the
corporate loan may be adversely affected.

     Some corporate loans are subject to the risk that a court, pursuant to
fraudulent conveyance or other similar laws, could subordinate the corporate
loans to presently existing or future indebtedness of the borrower or take other
action detrimental to lenders. Such court action could under certain
circumstances include invalidation of corporate loans. Any lender, which could
include the Fund, is subject to the risk that a court could find the lender
liable for damages in a claim by a borrower arising under the common laws of
tort or contracts or anti-fraud provisions of certain securities laws for
actions taken or omitted to be taken by the lenders under the relevant terms of
a loan agreement or in connection with actions with respect to the collateral
underlying in the corporate loan.

     The Fund may purchase participations in corporate loans. By purchasing a
participation interest in a loan, the Fund acquires some or all of the interest
of a bank or other financial institution in a loan to a corporate borrower.
Under a participation, the Fund generally will have rights that are more limited
than the rights of lenders or of persons who acquire a corporate loan by
assignment. In a participation, the Fund typically has a contractual
relationship with the lender selling the participation, but not with the
borrower. As a result, the Fund assumes the credit risk of the lender selling
the participation in addition to the credit risk of the borrower. In the event
of insolvency of the lender selling the participation, the Fund may be treated
as a general creditor of the lender and may not have a senior claim to the
lenders' interest in the corporate loan. A lender selling a participation and
other persons interpositioned between the lender and the Fund with respect to
participations will likely conduct their principal business activities in the
banking, finance and financial services industries.

WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY TRANSACTIONS

     The Fund may buy and sell securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery
basis, making payment or taking delivery at a later date, normally within 15-45
days of the trade date. On such transactions the payment obligation and the
interest rate are fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment.
Beginning on the date the Fund enters into a commitment to purchase securities
on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, the Fund is required under rules of
the Commission to maintain in a separate account liquid assets, consisting of
cash, cash equivalents or liquid securities having a market value at all times
of at least equal to the amount of the commitment. Income generated by any such
assets which provide taxable income for federal income tax purposes is
includable in the taxable income of the Fund. The Fund may enter into contracts
to purchase securities on a forward basis (i.e., where settlement will occur
more than 60 days from the date of the transaction) only to the extent that the
Fund specifically collateralizes such obligations with a security that is
expected to be called or mature within sixty days before or after the settlement
date of the forward transaction. The commitment to purchase securities on a
when-issued, delayed delivery or forward basis may involve an element of risk
because no interest accrues on the bonds prior to settlement and at the time of
delivery the market value may be less than cost.

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS

     As temporary investments, the Fund may invest in repurchase agreements. A
repurchase agreement is a contractual agreement whereby the seller of securities
(U.S. Government securities or municipal bonds) agrees to repurchase the same
security at a specified price on a future date agreed upon by the parties. The
agreed-upon repurchase price determines the yield during the Fund's holding
period. Repurchase agreements are considered to be loans collateralized by the
underlying security that is the subject of the repurchase contract. Income
generated from transactions in repurchase agreements will be taxable. See "Tax
Matters" for information relating to the allocation of taxable income between
Common Shares and FundPreferred shares, if any. The Fund will only enter into
repurchase agreements with registered securities dealers or domestic banks that,
in the opinion of an Adviser, present minimal credit risk. The risk to the Fund
is limited to the ability of the issuer to pay the agreed-upon repurchase price
on the delivery date; however, although the value of the underlying collateral
at the time the transaction is entered into always equals or exceeds the
agreed-upon repurchase price, if the value of the collateral declines there is a
risk of loss of both principal and interest. In the event of default, the
collateral may be sold but the Fund might incur a loss if the value of the
collateral declines, and might incur disposition costs or experience delays in
connection with liquidating the collateral. In addition, if bankruptcy
proceedings are commenced with respect to the seller of the security,
realization upon the collateral by the Fund may be delayed or limited. The
Adviser responsible for the investment will monitor the value of the collateral
at the time the transaction is entered into and at all times subsequent during
the term of the repurchase agreement in an effort to determine that such value
always equals or exceeds the agreed-upon repurchase price. In the event the
value of the collateral declines below the repurchase price, Spectrum will
demand additional collateral from the issuer to increase the value of the
collateral to at least that of the repurchase price, including interest.

ZERO COUPON BONDS AND PAYMENT-IN-KIND SECURITIES

Zero-coupon securities are debt obligations that do not entitle the holder to
any periodic payments of interest either for the entire life of the obligation
or for an initial period after the issuance of the obligation. When held to its
maturity, its return comes from the difference between the purchase price and
its maturity value. Payment-in-kind securities ("PIKs") pay dividends or
interest in the form of additional securities of the issuer, rather than in
cash. Each of these instruments is typically issued and traded at a deep
discount from its face amount. The amount of the discount varies depending on
such factors as the time remaining until maturity of the securities, prevailing
interest rates, the liquidity of the security and the perceived credit quality
of the issuer. The market prices of zero-coupon bonds and PIKs generally are
more volatile than the market prices of debt instruments that pay interest
currently and in cash and are likely to respond to changes in interest rates to
a greater degree than do other types of securities having similar maturities and
credit quality. In order to satisfy a requirement for qualification as a
"regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"), an investment company, such as the Fund, must distribute
each year at least 90% of its net investment income, including the original
issue discount accrued on zero-coupon bonds and PIKs. Because the Fund will not
on a current basis receive cash payments from the issuer of these securities in
respect of any accrued original issue discount, in some years the Fund may have
to distribute cash obtained from selling other portfolio holdings of the Fund in
order to avoid unfavorable tax consequences. In some circumstances, such sales
might be necessary in order to satisfy cash distribution requirements even
though investment considerations might otherwise make it undesirable for the
Fund to sell securities at such time. Under many market conditions, investments
in zero-coupon bonds and PIKs may be illiquid, making it difficult for the Fund
to dispose of them or determine their current value.


LENDING OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

     The Fund may lend its portfolio securities to broker-dealers and banks. Any
such loan must be continuously secured by collateral in cash or cash equivalents
maintained on a current basis in an amount at least equal to the market value of
the securities loaned by the Fund. The Fund would continue to receive the
equivalent of the interest or dividends paid by the issuer on the securities
loaned, and would also receive an additional return that may be in the form of a
fixed fee or a percentage of the collateral. The Fund may pay reasonable fees to
persons unaffiliated with the Fund for services in arranging these loans. The
Fund would have the right to call the loan and obtain the securities loaned at
any time on notice of not more than five business days. The Fund would not have
the right to vote the securities during the existence of the loan but would call
the loan to permit voting of the securities, if, in an Adviser's judgment, a
material event requiring a shareholder vote would otherwise occur before the
loan was repaid. In the event of bankruptcy or other default of the borrower,
the Fund could experience both delays in liquidating the loan collateral or
recovering the loaned securities and losses, including (a) possible decline in
the value of the collateral or in the value of the securities loaned during the
period while the Fund seeks to enforce its rights thereto, (b) possible
subnormal levels of income and lack of access to income during this period, and
(c) expenses of enforcing its rights.


PORTFOLIO TRADING AND TURNOVER RATE

     Portfolio trading may be undertaken to accomplish the investment objectives
of the Fund in relation to actual and anticipated movements in interest rates.
In addition, a security may be sold and another of comparable quality purchased
at approximately the same time to take advantage of what an Adviser believes to
be a temporary price disparity between the two securities. Temporary price
disparities between two comparable securities may result from supply and demand
imbalances where, for example, a temporary oversupply of certain securities may
cause a temporarily low price for such securities, as compared with other
securities of like quality and characteristics.

     The Fund may also engage to a limited extent in short-term trading
consistent with its investment objectives. Securities may be sold in
anticipation of a market decline (a rise in interest rates) or purchased in
anticipation of a market rise (a decline in interest rates) and later sold, but
the Fund will not engage in trading solely to recognize a gain. Subject to the
foregoing, the Fund will attempt to achieve its investment objectives by prudent
selection of preferred securities with a view to holding them for investment.
While there can be no assurance thereof, the Fund anticipates that its annual
portfolio turnover rate will generally not exceed 75%. However, the rate of
turnover will not be a limiting factor when the Fund deems it desirable to sell
or purchase securities. Therefore, depending upon market conditions, the annual
portfolio turnover rate of the Fund may exceed 75% in particular years. A higher
portfolio turnover rate results in correspondingly greater brokerage commissions
and other transactional expenses that are borne by the Fund. High portfolio
turnover may result in the realization of net short-term capital gains by the
Fund which, when distributed to shareholders, will be taxable as ordinary
income.


HEDGING TRANSACTIONS

     As a non-fundamental policy that can be changed by the Board of Trustees,
the use of derivatives and other transactions for purposes of hedging the
portfolio will be restricted to reducing the portfolio's exposure to the risk of
increases in interest rates, common stock risk, high yield credit risk and
foreign currency exchange risk. The specific derivative instruments to be used,
or other transactions to be entered into, for hedging purposes may include (i)
options and futures contracts, including options on common stock, stock indexes,
bonds and bond indexes, stock index futures, bond index futures and related
instruments, (ii) short sales of securities that the Fund owns or has the right
to acquire through the conversion of securities, (iii) structured notes and
similar instruments, (iv) credit derivative instruments, and (v) currency
exchange transactions. Some, but not all, of the derivative instruments may be
traded and listed on an exchange. The positions in derivatives will be
marked-to-market daily at the closing price established on the relevant exchange
or at a fair value. Except for investing in synthetic convertible securities,
the Fund will use derivatives or other transactions described in this paragraph
solely for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio risks.



                                     10




         There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of
the Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund,
which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund
to risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedging instruments is
subject to an Adviser's ability to predict correctly changes in the
relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings or
other factors, and there can be no assurance that an Adviser's judgment in this
respect will be correct. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might
result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted for
risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings. In addition, there
can be no assurance that the Fund will enter into hedging or other transactions
at times or under circumstances in which it would be advisable to do so. See
"Risks--Hedging Risks."

         Options on Securities. In order to hedge against adverse market shifts,
the Fund may purchase put and call options on stock, bonds or other securities.
In addition, the Fund may seek to hedge a portion of its portfolio investments
through writing (i.e., selling) covered put and call options. A put option
embodies the right of its purchaser to compel the writer of the option to
purchase from the option holder an underlying security or its equivalent at a
specified price at any time during the option period. In contrast, a call option
gives the purchaser the right to buy the underlying security covered by the
option or its equivalent from the writer of the option at the stated exercise
price at any time during the option period.

         As a holder of a put option, the Fund will have the right to sell the
securities underlying the option and as the holder of a call option, the Fund
will have the right to purchase the securities underlying the option, in each
case at their exercise price at any time prior to the option's expiration date.
The Fund may choose to exercise the options it holds, permit them to expire or
terminate them prior to their expiration by entering into closing sale or
purchase transactions. In entering into a closing sale or purchase transaction,
the Fund would sell an option of the same series as the one it has purchased.
The ability of the Fund to enter into a closing sale transaction with respect to
options purchased and to enter into a closing purchase transaction with respect
to options sold depends on the existence of a liquid secondary market. There can
be no assurance that a closing purchase or sale transaction can be effected when
the Fund so desires. The Fund's ability to terminate option positions
established in the over-the-counter market may be more limited than in the case
of exchange-traded options and may also involve the risk that securities dealers
participating in such transactions would fail to meet their obligations to the
Fund.

         In purchasing a put option, the Fund will seek to benefit from a
decline in the market price of the underlying security, while in purchasing a
call option, the Fund will seek to benefit from an increase in the market price
of the underlying security. If an option purchased is not sold or exercised when
it has remaining value, or if the market price of the underlying security
remains equal to or greater than the exercise price, in the case of a put, or
remains equal to or below the exercise price, in the case of a call, during the
life of the option, the option will expire worthless. For the purchase of an
option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must
decline sufficiently below the exercise price, in the case of a put, and must
increase sufficiently above the exercise price, in the case of a call, to cover
the premium and transaction costs. Because option premiums paid by the Fund are
small in relation to the market value of the instruments underlying the options,
buying options can result in additional amounts of leverage to the Fund. The
leverage caused by trading in options could cause the Fund's net asset value to
be subject to more frequent and wider fluctuation than would be the case if the
Fund did not invest in options.

         The Fund will receive a premium when it writes put and call options,
which increases the Fund's return on the underlying security in the event the
option expires unexercised or is closed out at a profit. By writing a call, the
Fund will limit its opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value
of the underlying security above the exercise price of the option for as long as
the Fund's obligation as the writer of the option continues. Upon the exercise
of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss equal
to the difference between the price at which the Fund is required to purchase
the underlying security and its market value at the time of the option exercise,
less the premium received for writing the option. Upon the exercise of a call
option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss equal to an
amount not less than the excess of the security's market value at the time of
the option exercise over the Fund's acquisition cost of the security, less the
sum of the premium received for writing the option and the difference, if any,
between the call price paid to the Fund and the Fund's acquisition cost of the
security. Thus, in some periods the Fund might receive less total return and in
other periods greater total return from its hedged positions than it would have
received from its underlying securities unhedged.

         Options on Stock and Bond Indexes. The Fund may purchase put and call
options on stock and bond indexes to hedge against risks of market-wide price
movements affecting its assets. In addition, the Fund may write covered put and
call options on stock and bond indexes. A stock or bond index measures the
movement of a certain group of stocks or bonds by assigning relative values to
the stocks or bonds included in the index. Options on a stock or bond index are
similar to options on securities. Because no underlying security can be
delivered, however, the option represents the holder's right to obtain from the
writer, in cash, a fixed multiple of the amount by which the exercise price
exceeds (in the case of a put) or is less than (in the case of a call) the
closing value of the underlying index on the exercise date. The advisability of
using stock or bond index options to hedge against the risk of market-wide
movements will depend on the extent of diversification of the Fund's investments
and the sensitivity of its investments to factors influencing the underlying
index. The effectiveness of purchasing or writing stock or bond index options as
a hedging technique will depend upon the extent to which price movements in the
Fund's investments correlate with price movements in the stock or bond index
selected. In addition, successful use by the Fund of options on stock or bond
indexes will be subject to the ability of an Adviser to predict correctly
changes in the relationship of the underlying index to the Fund's portfolio
holdings. No assurance can be given that the Adviser's judgment in this respect
will be correct.

         When the Fund writes an option on a stock or bond index, it will
establish a segregated account with its custodian in which the Fund will deposit
liquid securities in an amount equal to the market value of the option, and will
maintain the account while the option is open.

         Stock and Bond Index Futures Contracts. The Fund may purchase and sell
stock index futures as a hedge against movements in the equity markets. Stock
and bond index futures contracts are agreements in which one party agrees to
deliver to the other an amount of cash equal to a specific dollar amount times
the difference between the value of a specific stock or bond index at the close
of the last trading day of the contract and the price at which the agreement is
made. No physical delivery of securities is made.

         For example, if an Adviser expects general stock or bond market prices
to decline, it might sell a futures contract on a particular stock or bond
index. If that index does in fact decline, the value of some or all of the
securities in the fund's portfolio may also be expected to decline, but that
decrease would be offset in part by the increase in the value of the Fund's
position in such futures contract. If, on the other hand, an Adviser expects
general stock or bond market prices to rise, it might purchase a stock or bond
index futures contract as a hedge against an increase in prices of particular
securities it wants ultimately to buy. If in fact the stock or bond index does
rise, the price of the particular securities intended to be purchased may also
increase, but that increase would be offset in part by the increase in the value
of the Fund's futures contract resulting from the increase in the index. The
Fund may purchase futures contracts on a stock or bond index to enable an
Adviser to gain immediate exposure to the underlying securities market pending
the investment in individual securities of the portion of the Fund's portfolio
allocated to that Adviser.

         Under regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC")
currently in effect, which may change from time to time, with respect to futures
contracts purchased by the Fund, the Fund will set aside in a segregated account
liquid securities with a value at least equal to the value of instruments
underlying such futures contracts less the amount of initial margin on deposit
for such contracts. The current view of the staff of the Securities and Exchange
Commission is that the Fund's long and short positions in futures contracts must
be collateralized with cash or certain liquid assets held in a segregated
account or "covered" in order to counter the impact of any potential leveraging.

         Parties to a futures contract must make "initial margin" deposits to
secure performance of the contract. There are also requirements to make
"variation margin" deposits from time to time as the value of the futures
contract fluctuates. The Fund is not a commodity pool and, in compliance with
CFTC regulations currently in effect, may enter into any futures contracts and
related options for "bona fide hedging" purposes and, in addition, for other
purposes, provided that aggregate initial margin and premiums required to
establish positions other than those considered by the CFTC to be "bona fide
hedging" will not exceed 0.5% of the Fund's Managed Assets, after taking into
account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such contracts. The Fund
reserves the right to engage in transactions involving futures and options
thereon to the extent allowed by CFTC regulations in effect from time to time
and in accordance with the Fund's policies. In addition, certain provisions of
the Code may limit the extent to which the Fund may enter into futures contracts
or engage in options transactions. See "Tax Matters."


                                      11



         The potential loss related to the purchase of an option on a futures
contract is limited to the premium paid for the option (plus transaction costs).

         With respect to options purchased by the Fund, there are no daily cash
payments made by the Fund to reflect changes in the value of the underlying
contract; however, the value of the option does change daily and that change
would be reflected in the net asset value of the Fund.


         Risks Associated with Futures Contracts and Options on Futures
Contracts. Futures prices are affected by many factors, such as current and
anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying
instrument and the time remaining until expiration of the contract. A purchase
or sale of a futures contract may result in losses in excess of the amount
invested in the futures contract. While the Fund may enter into futures
contracts and options on futures contracts for hedging purposes, the use of
futures contracts and options on futures contracts might result in a poorer
overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in any such
transactions. If, for example, the Fund had insufficient cash, it might have to
sell a portion of its underlying portfolio of securities in order to meet daily
variation margin requirements on its futures contracts or options on futures
contracts at a time when it might be disadvantageous to do so. There may be an
imperfect correlation between the Fund's portfolio holdings and futures
contracts or options on futures contracts entered into by the Fund, which may
prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of
loss. The degree of imperfection of correlation depends on circumstances such
as: variations in speculative market demand for futures, futures options and the
related securities, including technical influences in futures and futures
options trading and differences between the securities markets and the
securities underlying the standard contracts available for trading. Futures
prices are affected by many factors, such as current and anticipated short-term
interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument and the time
remaining until the expiration of the contract. Further, the Fund's use of
futures contracts and options on futures contracts to reduce risk involves costs
and will be subject to an Adviser's ability to predict correctly changes in
interest rate relationships or other factors. A decision as to whether, when and
how to use futures contracts involves the exercise of skill and judgment, and
even a well-conceived transaction may be unsuccessful to some degree because of
market behavior or unexpected stock price or interest rate trends. No assurance
can be given that Spectrum's judgment in this respect will be correct.


         Futures exchanges may limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in
certain futures contract prices during a single trading day. The daily limit
establishes the maximum amount that the price of a futures contract may vary
either up or down from the previous day's settlement price at the end of the
current trading session. Once the daily limit has been reached in a futures
contract subject to the limit, no more trades may be made on that day at a price
beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movements during a
particular trading day and therefore does not limit potential losses because the
limit may work to prevent the liquidation of unfavorable positions. For example,
futures prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several
consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby preventing prompt
liquidation of positions and subjecting some holders of futures contracts to
substantial losses. Stock index futures contracts are not normally subject to
such daily price change limitations.

         The Fund may invest in other options. An option is an instrument that
gives the holder of the instrument the right, but not the obligation, to buy or
sell a predetermined number of specific securities (i.e. preferred stocks,
common stocks or bonds) at a stated price within the expiration period of the
instrument, which is generally less than 12 months from its issuance. If the
right is not exercised after a specified period but prior to the expiration, the
option expires. Both put and call options may be used by the Fund.

         Short Sales. The Fund may make short sales of securities if, at all
times when a short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of
such securities or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without
payment of any further consideration, securities of the same issue as, and equal
in amount to, the securities sold short. This technique is called selling short
"against the box."

         In a short sale against the box, the Fund will not deliver from its
portfolio the securities sold and will not receive immediately the proceeds from
the short sale. Instead, the Fund will borrow the securities sold short from a
broker-dealer through which the short sale is executed and the broker-dealer
will deliver such securities, on behalf of the Fund, to the purchaser of such
securities. Such broker-dealer will be entitled to retain the proceeds from the
short sale until the Fund delivers to such broker-dealer the securities sold
short. In addition, the Fund will be required to pay the broker-dealer the
amount of any dividends paid on shares sold short. Finally, to secure its
obligation to deliver to such broker-dealer the securities sold short, the Fund
must deposit and continuously maintain in a separate account with its custodian
an equivalent amount of the securities sold short or securities convertible into
or exchangeable for such securities without the payment of additional
consideration. The Fund is said to have a short position in the securities sold
until it delivers to the broker-dealer the securities sold, at which time the
Fund will receive the proceeds of the sale. Because the Fund ordinarily will
want to continue to hold securities in its portfolio that are sold short, the
Fund will normally close out a short position by purchasing on the open market
and delivering to the broker-dealer an equal amount of the securities sold
short, rather than by delivering portfolio securities.

         Short sales may protect the Fund against the risk of losses in the
value of its portfolio securities because any unrealized losses with respect to
such portfolio securities should be wholly or partially offset by a
corresponding gain in the short position. However, any potential gain in such
portfolio securities should be wholly or partially offset by a corresponding
loss in the short position. The extent to which such gains or losses are offset
will depend upon the amount of securities sold short relative to the amount the
Fund owns, either directly or indirectly, and, in the case where the Fund owns
convertible securities, changes in the conversion premium. The Fund will incur
transaction costs in connection with short sales.

         In addition to enabling the Fund to hedge against market risk, short
sales may afford the Fund an opportunity to earn additional current income to
the extent the Fund is able to enter into arrangements with broker-dealers
through which the short sales are executed to receive income with respect to the
proceeds of the short sales during the period the Fund's short positions remain
open.

         The Code imposes constructive sale treatment for federal income tax
purposes on certain hedging strategies with respect to appreciated financial
positions. Under these rules, taxpayers will recognize gain, but not loss, with
respect to securities if they enter into short sales or "offsetting notional
principal contracts" (as defined by the Code) with respect to, or futures or
forward contracts to deliver, the same or substantially identical property, or
if they enter into such transactions and then acquire the same or substantially
identical property. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to promulgate
regulations that will treat as constructive sales certain transactions that have
substantially the same effect as these transactions. See "Tax Matters."

         Structured Notes. The Fund may use structured notes and similar
instruments for hedging purposes. Structured notes are privately negotiated debt
obligations where the principal and/or interest is determined by reference to
the performance of a benchmark asset, market or interest rate (an "embedded
index"), such as selected securities, an index of securities or specified
interest rates or the differential performance of two assets or markets. The
terms of such structured instruments normally provide that their principal
and/or interest payments are to be adjusted upwards or downwards (but not
ordinarily below zero) to reflect changes in the embedded index while the
structured instruments are outstanding. As a result, the interest and/or
principal payments that may be made on a structured product may vary widely,
depending on a variety of factors, including the volatility of the embedded
index and the effect of changes in the embedded index on principal and/or
interest payments. The rate of return on structured notes may be determined by
applying a multiplier to the performance or differential performance of the
referenced index(es) or other asset(s). Application of a multiplier involves
leverage that will serve to magnify the potential for gain and the risk of loss.

         Credit Derivative Instruments. The Fund may purchase credit derivative
instruments for purposes of hedging the Fund's credit risk exposure to certain
issuers of securities that the Fund owns. For example, the Fund may enter into
credit swap default contracts for hedging purposes where the Fund would be the
buyer of such a default contract. The Fund would be entitled to receive the par
(or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt obligation from the
counterparty to the contract in the event of a default by a third party, such as
a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer, on the debt obligation. In return, the Fund
would pay to the counterparty a periodic stream of payments over the term of the
contract provided that no event of default has occurred. If no default occurs,
the Fund would have spent the stream of payments and received no benefit from
the contract.

         Currency Exchange Transactions. The Fund may enter into currency
exchange transactions to hedge the Fund's exposure to foreign currency exchange
rate risk in the event the Fund invests in non-U.S. dollar denominated
securities of non-U.S. issuers as described in this Statement of Additional
Information. The Fund's currency transactions will be limited to portfolio
hedging involving portfolio positions. Portfolio hedging is the use of a forward
contract with respect to a portfolio security position denominated or quoted in
a particular currency. A forward contract is an agreement to purchase or sell a
specified currency at a specified future date (or within a specified time
period) and price set at the time of the contract. Forward contracts are usually
entered into with banks, foreign exchange dealers or broker-dealers, are not
exchange-traded, and are usually for less than one year, but may be renewed.

         At the maturity of a forward contract to deliver a particular currency,
the Fund may either sell the portfolio security related to such contract and
make delivery of the currency, or it may retain the security and either acquire
the currency on the spot market or terminate its contractual obligation to
deliver the currency by purchasing an offsetting contract with the same currency
trader obligating it to purchase on the same maturity date the same amount of
the currency.

         It is impossible to forecast with absolute precision the market value
of portfolio securities at the expiration of a forward contract. Accordingly, it
may be necessary for the Fund to purchase additional currency on the spot market
(and bear the expense of such purchase) if the market value of the security is
less than the amount of currency that the Fund is obligated to deliver and if a
decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the currency.
Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on the spot market some of the currency
received upon the sale of the portfolio security if its market value exceeds the
amount of currency the Fund is obligated to deliver.

         If the Fund retains the portfolio security and engages in an offsetting
transaction, the Fund will incur a gain or a loss to the extent that there has
been movement in forward contract prices. If the Fund engages in an offsetting
transaction, it may subsequently enter into a new forward contract to sell the
currency. Should forward prices decline during the period between the Fund's
entering into a forward contract for the sale of a currency and the date it
enters into an offsetting contract for the purchase of the currency, the Fund
will realize a gain to the extent the price of the currency it has agreed to
sell exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase. Should forward
prices increase, the Fund will suffer a loss to the extent the price of the
currency it has agreed to purchase exceeds the price of the currency it has
agreed to sell. A default on the contract would deprive the Fund of unrealized
profits or force the Fund to cover its commitments for purchase or sale of
currency, if any, at the current market price.

         Hedging against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate
fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities or prevent losses if the
prices of such securities decline. Such transactions also preclude the
opportunity for gain if the value of the hedged currency should rise. Moreover,
it may not be possible for the Fund to hedge against a devaluation that is so
generally anticipated that the Fund is not able to contract to sell the currency
at a price above the devaluation level it anticipates. The cost to the Fund of
engaging in currency exchange transactions varies with such factors as the
currency involved, the length of the contract period, and prevailing market
conditions. Since currency exchange transactions are usually conducted on a
principal basis, no fees or commissions are involved.

                                      12




         The Fund may invest in relatively new instruments without a significant
trading history for purposes of hedging the Fund's portfolio risks. As a result,
there can be no assurance that an active secondary market will develop or
continue to exist.


INTEREST RATE TRANSACTIONS

         In connection with the Fund's likely use of leverage through its sale
of FundPreferred shares or Borrowings, the Fund, if market conditions are deemed
favorable, likely will enter into interest rate swap or cap transactions to
attempt to protect itself from increasing dividend or interest expenses on its
FundPreferred shares or Borrowings. Interest rate swaps involve the Fund's
agreement with the swap counterparty to pay a fixed rate payment in exchange for
the counterparty agreeing to pay the Fund a payment at a variable rate that is
expected to approximate the rate on the Fund's variable rate payment obligation
on FundPreferred shares or any variable rate Borrowings. The payment obligations
would be based on the notional amount of the swap. The Fund may use an interest
rate cap, which would require it to pay a premium to the cap counterparty and
would entitle it, to the extent that a specified variable rate index exceeds a
predetermined fixed rate, to receive from the counterparty payment of the
difference based on the notional amount. The Fund would use interest rate swaps
or caps only with the intent to reduce or eliminate the risk that an increase in
short-term interest rates could have on Common Share net earnings as a result of
leverage.

         The Fund will usually enter into swaps or caps on a net basis; that is,
the two payment streams will be netted out in a cash settlement on the payment
date or dates specified in the instrument, with the Fund receiving or paying, as
the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. The Fund intends to
maintain in a segregated account with its custodian cash or liquid securities
having a value at least equal to the Fund's net payment obligations under any
swap transaction, marked-to-market daily.

         The use of interest rate swaps and caps is a highly specialized
activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those
associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions. Depending on the state
of interest rates in general, the Fund's use of interest rate swaps or caps
could enhance or harm the overall performance on the Common Shares. To the
extent there is a decline in interest rates, the value of the interest rate swap
or cap could decline, and could result in a decline in the net asset value of
the Common Shares. In addition, if short-term interest rates are lower than the
Fund's fixed rate of payment on the interest rate swap, the swap will reduce
Common Share net earnings. If, on the other hand, short-term interest rates are
higher than the fixed rate of payment on the interest rate swap, the swap will
enhance Common Share net earnings. Buying interest rate caps could enhance the
performance of the Common Shares by providing a maximum leverage expense. Buying
interest rate caps could also decrease the net earnings of the Common Shares in
the event that the premium paid by the Fund to the counterparty exceeds the
additional amount the Fund would have been required to pay had it not entered
into the cap agreement. The Fund has no current intention of selling an interest
rate swap or cap. The Fund will not enter into interest rate swap or cap
transactions in an aggregate notional amount that exceeds the outstanding amount
of the Fund's leverage.

         Interest rate swaps and caps do not involve the delivery of securities
or other underlying assets or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with
respect to interest rate swaps is limited to

                                      13




the net amount of interest payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to
make. If the counterparty defaults, the Fund would not be able to use the
anticipated net receipts under the swap or cap to offset the dividend payments
on the FundPreferred shares or interest payments on Borrowings. Depending on
whether the Fund would be entitled to receive net payments from the counterparty
on the swap or cap, which in turn would depend on the general state of
short-term interest rates at that point in time, such a default could negatively
impact the performance of the Common Shares.

         Although this will not guarantee that the counterparty does not
default, the Fund will not enter into an interest rate swap or cap transaction
with any counter-party that NIAC believes does not have the financial resources
to honor its obligation under the interest rate swap or cap transaction.
Further, NIAC will continually monitor the financial stability of a counterparty
to an interest rate swap or cap transaction in an effort to proactively protect
the Fund's investments.

         In addition, at the time the interest rate swap or cap transaction
reaches its scheduled termination date, there is a risk that the Fund would not
be able to obtain a replacement transaction or that the terms of the replacement
would not be as favorable as on the expiring transaction. If this occurs, it
could have a negative impact on the performance of the Fund's Common Shares.

         The Fund may choose or be required to redeem some or all of the
FundPreferred shares or prepay any Borrowings. This redemption would likely
result in the Fund seeking to terminate early all or a portion of any swap or
cap transaction. Such early termination of a swap could result in termination
payment by or to the Fund. An early termination of a cap could result in a
termination payment to the Fund.

                                      14



                             MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND

TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS



         The management of the Fund, including general supervision of the duties
performed for the Fund under the Management Agreement, is the responsibility of
the Board of Trustees of the Fund. The number of trustees of the Fund is
currently set at 12. None of the trustees who are not "interested persons" of
the Fund has ever been a director or employee of, or consultant to, Nuveen,
Spectrum or Froley, Revy or their affiliates. The Trustees serve annual terms
until the next annual shareholder meeting. The names and business addresses of
the trustees and officers of the Fund, their principal occupations and other
affiliations during the past five years, the number of portfolios each oversees
and other directorships they hold are set forth below.







                                           Positions and Offices       Principal Occupations, Including       Number of Portfolios
                                        with the Fund and Year First   Other Directorships Held, During         in Fund Complex
     Name and Address       Birthdate       Elected or Appointed            Past Five Years                   Overseen by Trustee
     ----------------       ---------       --------------------            ---------------                   -------------------

Trustee who is an "interested person" of the Fund:

                                                                                                          
Timothy R.  Schwertfeger*   03/28/49      Chairman of the Board        Chairman and Director (since 1996)             142
333 West Wacker Drive                     and Trustee, 2003            of Nuveen Investments, Inc.,
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Nuveen Investments, LLC, Nuveen
                                                                       Advisory Corp. and Nuveen Institutional
                                                                       Advisory Corp.


_______________________________

*    Mr. Schwertfeger is an "interested person" of the Fund, as defined in the
     Investment Company Act of 1940, because he is an officer and director of
     Nuveen Investments, Inc., Nuveen Investments, LLC and NIAC.

                                      15






                                           Positions and Offices       Principal Occupations, Including       Number of Portfolios
                                        with the Fund and Year First   Other Directorships Held, During         in Fund Complex
     Name and Address        Birthdate     Elected or Appointed            Past Five Years                   Overseen by Trustee
     ----------------        ---------     --------------------            ---------------                   -------------------
                                                                                                  
                                                                       Chairman and Director (since 1997)
                                                                       of Nuveen Asset Management, Inc.;
                                                                       Director (since 1996) of Institutional
                                                                       Capital Corporation; Chairman and
                                                                       Director (since 1999) of Rittenhouse
                                                                       Asset Management, Inc.; Chairman of
                                                                       Nuveen Investments Advisers Inc. (since
                                                                       2002).

Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Fund:

William E.  Bennett          10/16/46     Trustee, 2003                Private Investor; previously,                    20
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  President and Chief Executive
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Officer, Draper & Kramer, Inc.,
                                                                       a private company that handles
                                                                       mortgage banking, real estate
                                                                       development, pension advisory
                                                                       and real estate management
                                                                       (1995 - 1998).


Robert P. Bremner             8/22/40     Trustee, 2003                Private Investor and Management Consultant.     122
333 West Wacker Drive
Chicago, Il 60606

Lawrence H. Brown             7/29/34     Trustee, 2003                Retired (since 1989) as Senior Vice President   122
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  of The Northern Trust Company; Director of the
Chicago, Il 60606                                                      United Way of Highland Park-Highwood (since
                                                                       2002).


Jack B.  Evans**             10/22/48     Trustee, 2003                President, The Hall-Perrine                      20
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Foundation, a private philanthropic
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      corporation (since 1996); Director,
                                                                       Alliant Energy; Director and Vice
                                                                       Chairman, United Fire & Casualty
                                                                       Company; Director, Federal Reserve
                                                                       Bank of Chicago; formerly, President and
                                                                       Chief Operating Officer, SCI
                                                                       Financial Group, Inc., a regional
                                                                       financial services firm.


Anne E. Impellizzeri          1/26/33     Trustee, 2003                Retired, formerly Executive Director (1998-     122
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  2001) of Manitoga (Center for Russel Wright's
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Design with Nature); formerly, President and
                                                                       Executive Officer of Blanton-Peale Institutes
                                                                       Chief of Religion and Health (since 1990);
                                                                       prior thereto, Vice President, Metropolitan
                                                                       Life Insurance Co.


William L.  Kissick           7/29/32     Trustee, 2003                Professor Emeritus, School of Medicine           20
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  and the Wharton School of Management and
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      former Chairman, Leonard Davis
                                                                       Institute of Health Economics,
                                                                       University of Pennsylvania; Adjunct Professor,
                                                                       Health Policy and Management, Yale University.

Thomas E. Leafstrand         11/11/31     Trustee, 2003                Retired; previously, Vice President              20
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  in charge of Municipal Underwriting
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      and Dealer Sales at The Northern
                                                                       Trust Company.


Peter R. Sawers                4/3/33     Trustee, 2003                Adjunct Professor of Business and Economics,    122
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  University of Dubuque, Iowa; formerly (1991-
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      2000) Adjunct Professor, Lake Forest Graduate
                                                                       School of Management, Lake Forest, Illinois;
                                                                       prior thereto, Executive Director, Towers
                                                                       Perrin Australia, a management consulting firm;
                                                                       Chartered Financial Analyst; Director, Executive
                                                                       Service Corps of Chicago, a not-for-profit
                                                                       organization; Certified Management Consultant.

William J. Schneider          9/24/44     Trustee, 2003                Senior Partner and Chief Operating Officer,     122
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Miller-Valentine Group, Vice President,
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Miller-Valentine Realty, a development and
                                                                       contract company; Chair, Miami Valley Hospital;
                                                                       Chair, Miami Valley Economic Development
                                                                       Coalition; formerly Member, Community Advisory
                                                                       Board, National City Bank, Dayton, Ohio and
                                                                       Business Advisory Council, Cleveland Federal
                                                                       Reserve Bank.

Judith M. Stockdale          12/29/47     Trustee, 2003                Executive Director, Gaylord and Dorothy         122
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Donnelley Foundation (since 1994); prior
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      thereto, Executive Director, Great Lakes
                                                                       Protection Fund (from 1990 to 1994)


Sheila W.  Wellington         2/24/32     Trustee, 2003                President (since 1993) of Catalyst (a            20
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  not-for-profit organization focusing
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      on women's leadership development in
                                                                       business and the professions).


** As a result of his ownership of securities issued by Wells Fargo & Co., the
parent company of Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, one of the principal underwriters
of the Fund, the Fund believes that Mr. Evans may be deemed to be an interested
person for as long as Wells Fargo Securities, LLC serves as principal
underwriter to the Fund and, therefore, for purposes of this offering he is
being treated as an interested person. Mr. Evans owns less than 1% of such
securities outstanding and has abstained from voting on any items involving the
appointment of Wells Fargo Securities, LLC as principal underwriter to the Fund.


                                       16






                                           Positions and Offices       Principal Occupations, Including       Number of Portfolios
                                        with the Fund and Year First      Directorships Held, During            in Fund Complex
     Name and Address       Birthdate       Elected or Appointed            Past Five Years                   Overseen by Officer
     ----------------       ---------       --------------------            ---------------                   -------------------
                                                                                                          
Officers of the Fund:

Gifford R. Zimmerman          9/9/56      Chief Administrative         Managing Director (since 2002), Assistant      142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Officer, 2003                Secretary and Associate General Counsel,
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      formerly, Vice President and Assistant General
                                                                       Counsel of Nuveen Investments, LLC; Managing
                                                                       Director (since 2002), General Counsel
                                                                       and Assistant Secretary, formerly, Vice
                                                                       President of Nuveen Advisory Corp. and Nuveen
                                                                       Institutional Advisory Corp.; Managing
                                                                       Director (since 2002), Assistant Secretary and
                                                                       Associate General Counsel, formerly, Vice President
                                                                       (since 2000), of Nuveen Asset Management, Inc.;
                                                                       Assistant Secretary of Nuveen Investments, Inc.
                                                                       (since 1994);  Assistant Secretary of NWQ
                                                                       Investment Management Company, LLC. (since 2002);
                                                                       Vice President and Assistant Secretary of Nuveen
                                                                       Investments Advisers Inc. (since 2002); Managing
                                                                       Director, Associate General Counsel and Assistant
                                                                       Secretary of Rittenhouse Asset Management, Inc.
                                                                       (since May 2003); Chartered Financial Analyst.


Michael T. Atkinson           2/3/66      Vice President and           Vice President (since January 2002),           142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Assistant Secretary,         formerly Assistant Vice President
Chicago, IL 60606                         2003                         (since 2000), previously, Associate
                                                                       of Nuveen Investments, LLC.

Peter H. D'Arrigo           11/28/67      Vice President and           Vice President of Nuveen Investments, LLC      142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Treasurer, 2003              (since 1999), prior thereto, Assistant
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Vice President (from 1997); Vice
                                                                       President and Treasurer (since 1999)
                                                                       of Nuveen Investments, Inc.; Vice President
                                                                       and Treasurer (since 1999) of Nuveen Advisory
                                                                       Corp. and Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.;
                                                                       Vice President and Treasurer of Nuveen Asset
                                                                       Management,  Inc. (since 2002) and of Nuveen
                                                                       Investments Advisers Inc.; Assistant Treasurer
                                                                       of NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC.
                                                                       (since 2002); Chartered Financial Analyst.

Susan M. DeSanto              9/8/54      Vice President, 2003         Vice President of Nuveen Advisory              142
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Corp. (since 2001); previously, Vice
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      President of Van Kampen Investment
                                                                       Advisory Corp. (since 1998); prior
                                                                       thereto, Assistant Vice President of
                                                                       Van Kampen Investment Advisory Corp.
                                                                       (since 1994).

Jessica R. Droeger           9/24/64      Vice President and           Vice President (since 2002)                    142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Secretary, 2003              and Assistant General Counsel (since
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      1998); formerly, Assistant Vice
                                                                       President (since 1998), of Nuveen Investments,
                                                                       LLC; Vice President (since 2002) and
                                                                       Assistant Secretary (since 1998), formerly
                                                                       Assistant Vice President, of Nuveen Advisory
                                                                       Corp. and Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.

Lorna C.  Ferguson          10/24/45      Vice President, 2003         Vice President of Nuveen Investments, LLC;     142
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Vice President (since 1998) of Nuveen Advisory
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Corp. and Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.

William M.  Fitzgerald        3/2/64      Vice President, 2003         Managing Director (since 2002) of Nuveen       142
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Investments, LLC; Managing Director (since
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      2001), formerly, Vice President of Nuveen
                                                                       Advisory Corp. and Nuveen Institutional
                                                                       Advisory Corp. (since 1995); Managing
                                                                       Director of Nuveen Asset Management, Inc.
                                                                       (since 2001); Vice President of Nuveen
                                                                       Investments Advisers Inc. (since 2002);
                                                                       Chartered Financial Analyst.

Stephen D. Foy               5/31/54      Vice President and           Vice President (since 1993) and Funds          142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Controller, 2003             Controller (since 1998) of Nuveen Investments,
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      LLC; Vice President and Funds Controller
                                                                       (since 1998) of Nuveen Investments, Inc.;
                                                                       Certified Public Accountant.

David J. Lamb                3/22/63      Vice President, 2003         Vice President (since 2000) of                 142
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Nuveen Investments, LLC, previously
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      Assistant Vice President (since
                                                                       1999); prior thereto, Associate
                                                                       of Nuveen Investments, LLC; Certified
                                                                       Public Accountant.

Tina M. Lazar                8/27/61      Vice President, 2003         Vice President (since 1999), previously        142
333 West Wacker Drive                                                  Assistant Vice President (since 1993)
Chicago, IL 60606                                                      of Nuveen Investments, LLC.

Larry W.  Martin             7/27/51      Vice President and           Vice President, Assistant Secretary            142
333 West Wacker Drive                     Assistant Secretary,         and Assistant General Counsel of
Chicago, IL 60606                         2003                         Nuveen Investments, LLC; Vice President and
                                                                       Assistant Secretary of Nuveen Advisory
                                                                       Corp. and Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.;



                                      17






                                       Positions and Offices       Principal Occupations, Including            Number of Portfolios
                                    with the Fund and Year First   Directorships Held, During                    in Fund Complex
     Name and Address   Birthdate       Elected or Appointed            Past Five Years                        Overseen by Officer
     ----------------   ---------       --------------------            ---------------                        -------------------
                                                                                                   
                                                                   Assistant Secretary of Nuveen Investments,
                                                                   Inc. and (since 1997) of Nuveen Asset
                                                                   Management, Inc.; Vice President (since
                                                                   2000), Assistant Secretary and Assistant
                                                                   General Counsel (since 1998) of Rittenhouse
                                                                   Asset Management, Inc.; Vice President and
                                                                   Assistant Secretary of Nuveen Investments
                                                                   Advisers Inc. (since 2002); Assistant
                                                                   Secretary of NWQ Investment Management
                                                                   Company, LLC. (since 2002).


Edward F. Neild, IV     7/7/65       Vice President, 2003          Managing Director (since 2002)                     142
333 W. Wacker Drive                                                of Nuveen Investments, LLC;
Chicago, IL 60606                                                  Managing Director (since 1997), formerly
                                                                   Vice President (since 1996) of Nuveen
                                                                   Advisory Corp. and Nuveen Institutional
                                                                   Advisory Corp.; Managing Director of Nuveen
                                                                   Asset Management, Inc. (since 1999); Chartered
                                                                   Financial Analyst.



         The Board of Trustees has five standing committees: the executive
committee, the audit committee, the nominating and governance committee, the
dividend committee and the valuation and risk committee. Because the Fund is
newly organized, none of the committees have met during the Fund's last fiscal
year. The executive committee met once prior to the commencement of the Fund's
operations.

         Robert P. Bremner, Anne E. Impellizzeri and Timothy R. Schwertfeger,
Chair, serve as members of the executive committee of the Board of Trustees of
the Fund. The executive committee, which meets between regular meetings of the
Board of Trustees, is authorized to exercise all of the powers of the Board of
Trustees.


         The audit committee monitors the accounting and reporting policies and
practices of the Funds, the quality and integrity of the financial statements of
the Funds, compliance by the Funds with legal and regulatory requirements and
the independence and performance of the external and internal auditors. The
members of the audit committee are William E. Bennett, Robert P. Bremner,
Lawrence H. Brown, Jack B. Evans, Thomas E. Leafstrand, William J. Schneider,
Chair, and Peter R. Sawers.


         The nominating and governance committee is responsible for Board
selection and tenure; selection and review of committees; and Board education
and operations. In addition, the committee monitors performance of legal counsel
and other service providers; periodically reviews and makes recommendations
about any appropriate changes to trustee compensation; and has the resources and
authority to discharge its responsibilities--including retaining special counsel
and other experts or consultants at the expense of the Fund. In the event of a
vacancy on the Board, the nominating and governance committee receives
suggestions from various sources (including shareholders) as to suitable
candidates. Suggestions should be sent in writing to Lorna Ferguson, Vice
President for Board Relations, Nuveen Investments, LLC, 333 West Wacker Drive,
Chicago, IL 60606. The nominating and governance committee sets appropriate
standards and requirements for nominations for new trustees and reserves the
right to interview all candidates and to make


                                      18




the final selection of any new trustees. The members of the nominating and
governance committee are William E. Bennett, Robert P. Bremner, Chair, Lawrence
H. Brown, Jack B. Evans, Anne E. Impellizzeri, William L. Kissick, Thomas E.
Leafstrand, Peter R. Sawers, William J. Schneider, Judith M. Stockdale and
Sheila W. Wellington.

         The dividend committee is authorized to declare distributions on the
Fund's shares including, but not limited to, regular and special dividends,
capital gains and ordinary income distributions. The members of the dividend
committee are Timothy R. Schwertfeger, Chair, Lawrence H. Brown, Jack B. Evans
and Thomas E. Leafstrand.

         The valuation committee oversees the Fund's pricing procedures
including, but not limited to, the review and approval of fair value pricing
determinations made by Nuveen's Valuation Group. The members of the valuation
committee are William E. Bennett, Chair, Lawrence H. Brown, Thomas E.
Leafstrand, and Judith M. Stockdale.

          Trustees Bennett, Evans, Kissick, Leafstrand and Wellington are also
trustees of 8 Nuveen open-end funds and 12 Nuveen closed-end funds managed by
NIAC. Trustees Bremner, Brown, Impellizzeri, Sawers, Schneider and Stockdale are
also directors or trustees, as the case may be, of 30 open-end and 92 closed-end
funds managed by Nuveen Advisory Corp. Mr. Schwertfeger is also a director or
trustee, as the case may be, of 38 Nuveen open-end funds and 104 closed-end
funds managed by NIAC or Nuveen Advisory Corp. None of the independent trustees,
nor any of their immediate family members, has ever been a director, officer, or
employee of, or a consultant to, NIAC, Nuveen or their affiliates. In addition,
none of the independent trustees owns beneficially or of record, any security of
NIAC, Nuveen or any person (other than a registered investment company) directly
or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with NIAC or
Nuveen.

         The Common Shareholders of the Fund will elect trustees at the next
annual meeting of Common Shareholders, unless any FundPreferred shares are
outstanding at that time, in which event holders of FundPreferred shares,
voting as a separate class, will elect two trustees, and the remaining trustees
shall be elected by Common Shareholders and holders of FundPreferred shares,
voting together as a single class. Holders of FundPreferred shares will be
entitled to elect a majority of the Fund's trustees under certain circumstances.
See "Description of Shares - FundPreferred Shares - Voting Rights." The
following table sets forth the dollar range of equity securities beneficially
owned by each trustee as of December 31, 2002:



                                                                  Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All
                             Dollar Range of Equity Securities   Registered Investment Companies Overseen by Trustee
      Name of Trustee                   in the Fund                       in Family of Investment Companies
      ---------------                   -----------                       ---------------------------------
                                                           
Timothy R. Schwertfeger                      $0                                     Over $100,000

William E. Bennett                           $0                                   $50,001 - $100,000

Robert P. Bremner                            $0                                   $10,001 - $50,000

Lawrence H. Brown                            $0                                   $50,001 - $100,000

Jack B. Evans                                $0                                     Over $100,000

Anne E. Impellizzeri                         $0                                   $10,001 - $50,000

William L. Kissick                           $0                                   $50,001 - $100,000

Thomas E. Leafstrand                         $0                                     Over $100,000

Peter R. Sawers                              $0                                     Over $100,000

William S. Schneider                         $0                                     Over $100,000

Judith M. Stockdale                          $0                                   $10,001 - $50,000

Sheila W. Wellington                         $0                                     Over $100,000


         No trustee who is not an interested person of the Fund owns
beneficially or of record, any security of NIAC, Nuveen, Spectrum, Froley, Revy,
Citigroup Global Markets Inc. or any person (other than a registered investment
company) directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common
control with NIAC, Nuveen, Spectrum, Froley, Revy or Citigroup Global Markets
Inc.

         The following table sets forth estimated compensation to be paid by the
Fund projected during the Fund's first full fiscal year after commencement of
operation. The Fund does not have a retirement or pension plan. The officers and
trustees affiliated with Nuveen serve without any compensation from the Fund.
The Fund has a deferred compensation plan (the "Plan") that

                                      19



permits any trustee who is not an "interested person" of the Fund to elect to
defer receipt of all or a portion of his or her compensation as a trustee. The
deferred compensation of a participating trustee is credited to a book reserve
account of the Fund when the compensation would otherwise have been paid to the
trustee. The value of the trustee's deferral account at any time is equal to the
value that the account would have had if contributions to the account had been
invested and reinvested in shares of one or more of the eligible Nuveen funds.
At the time for commencing distributions from a trustee's deferral account, the
trustee may elect to receive distributions in a lump sum or over a period of
five years. The Fund will not be liable for any other fund's obligations to make
distributions under the Plan.




                              Estimated Aggregate      Total Compensation from    Amount of Total Compensation
     Name of Trustee        Compensation from Fund*    Fund and Fund Complex**       That Has Been Deferred
     ---------------        -----------------------    -----------------------    ----------------------------
                                                                         
Timothy R. Schwertfeger               $  0                     $     0                      $      0

William E. Bennett                     501                      53,050                        41,564

Robert P. Bremner                      501                      77,500                         8,780

Lawrence H. Brown                      521                      82,000                             -

Jack B. Evans                          521                      49,100                        19,357

Anne E. Impellizzeri                   480                      77,500                        58,535

William L. Kissick                     480                      49,000                        18,000

Thomas E. Leafstrand                   521                      52,300                        20,542

Peter R. Sawers                        501                      79,250                        58,785

William S. Schneider                   516                      77,500                        58,535

Judith M. Stockdale                    480                      77,750                        14,690

Sheila W. Wellington                   480                      47,600                        37,403



____________________________


* Based on the estimated compensation to be earned by the independent trustees
for the 12-month period ending 7/31/2004, representing the Fund's first full
fiscal year, for services to the Fund.


**Based on the compensation paid to the trustees for the one year period ending
12/31/02 for services to the Nuveen open-end and closed-end funds.


         The Fund has no employees. Its officers are compensated by Nuveen
Investments, Inc. or its affiliates.

      Nuveen Investments, Inc. maintains charitable contributions programs
to encourage the active support and involvement of individuals in the civic
activities of their community. These programs include a matching contributions
program and a direct contributions program. The Independent Board Members of the
funds managed by NIAC are eligible to participate in the charitable
contributions program of Nuveen Investments, Inc. Under the matching program,
Nuveen Investments, Inc. will match the personal contributions of a Board Member
to Section 501(c)(3) organizations up to an aggregate maximum amount of $10,000
during any calendar year. Under its direct (non-matching) program, Nuveen
Investments, Inc. makes contributions to qualifying Section 501(c)(3)
organizations, as approved by the Corporate Contributions Committee of Nuveen
Investments, Inc. The Independent Board Members are also eligible to submit
proposals to the committee requesting that contributions be made under this
program to Section 501(c)(3) organizations identified by the Board Member,
in an aggregate amount not to exceed $5,000 during any calendar year. Any
contribution made by Nuveen Investments, Inc. under the direct program is made
solely at the discretion of the Corporate Contributions Committee.



                                 INVESTMENT ADVISERS

         NIAC, 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606, will be
responsible for determining the Fund's overall investment strategy, including
portfolio allocations, and the use of leverage, hedging and interest rate
transactions. NIAC also is responsible for selection of the Fund's Subadvisers
and ongoing monitoring of the Subadvisers, managing the Fund's business affairs
and providing day-to-day administrative services to the Fund. For additional
information regarding the management services performed by NIAC, see "Management
of the Fund" in the Fund's Prospectus.

         NIAC serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and is responsible
for managing the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to other debt
instruments.


         NIAC, a registered investment adviser, is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Nuveen Investments, Inc. According to data from Thomson Wealth Management,
Nuveen Investments, Inc. is the leading sponsor of exchange-traded funds as
measured by number of funds 103 and fund assets under


                                       20




management (approximately $42 billion) as of April 30, 2003. Founded in 1898,
Nuveen Investments, Inc. and its affiliates had approximately $83 billion in
assets under management as of April 30, 2003. Nuveen Investments, Inc. is a
publicly-traded company that is approximately 79% owned by The St. Paul
Companies, Inc. ("St. Paul"). St. Paul is a publicly-traded company located in
St. Paul, Minnesota, and is principally engaged in providing property-liability
insurance through subsidiaries.

          Gunther Stein and Lenny Mason are the portfolio managers for NIAC
responsible for investing the Fund's assets allocated to other debt instruments.
Mr. Stein is a Vice President of NIAC. He also has been lead portfolio manager
for high yield strategies at Symphony Asset Management, LLC ("Symphony"), a
wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc., since 1999. Prior to
joining Symphony in 1999, Mr. Stein was a high yield portfolio manager at Wells
Fargo. Mr. Mason is a Vice President of NIAC. He also is a high yield portfolio
manager at Symphony. Prior to joining Symphony in 2001, Mr. Mason was a Managing
Director in FleetBoston's Technology and Communications Group.

          Nuveen Investments, Inc. provides investment services to financial
advisors serving high-net-worth clients and institutional clients. Nuveen
Investments today markets its capabilities--which include tax-free investing,
separately-managed accounts and market-neutral alternative investment
portfolios--under four distinct brands: Nuveen, NWQ, Rittenhouse and Symphony.
Nuveen Investments, Inc. is listed on The New York Stock Exchange and trades
under the symbol "JNC."


          Spectrum, 4 High Ridge Park, Stamford, Connecticut 06905, is a
Subadviser to the Fund and is responsible for managing the portion of the Fund's
assets allocated to preferred securities. As one of the leading managers of
preferred securities in the U.S., Spectrum specializes in the management of
diversified preferred security portfolios for institutional investors, including
Fortune 500 companies, pension funds, insurance companies and foundations.
Spectrum also serves as a sub-adviser for a large offshore fund. Spectrum, a
registered investment adviser, commenced operations in 1987 and had
approximately $8 billion in assets under management as of April 30, 2003.

          Spectrum is an independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of
Principal Global Investors, LLC, which is part of Principal Financial Group
Inc., a publicly traded, diversified, insurance and financial services company.
Collectively, subsidiaries and affiliates of Principal Global Investors, LLC
managed over $98 billion in combined assets worldwide as of April 30, 2003.
As a subsidiary of Principal Global Investors, LLC, Spectrum also can take
advantage of Principal's extensive staff of internal credit analysts.


          A team of Spectrum professionals led by Mark A. Lieb, Bernard M.
Sussman and L. Phillip Jacoby, IV is responsible for investing the portion of
the Fund's assets allocated to preferred securities.

          Mr. Lieb is an Executive Director and the Chief Financial Officer of
Spectrum. Mr. Lieb is responsible for business development of Spectrum. Prior to
founding Spectrum in 1987, Mr. Lieb was a founder, director and partner of DBL
Preferred Management, Inc., a wholly owned corporate cash management subsidiary
of Drexel Burnham Lambert, Inc. Mr. Lieb was instrumental in the formation and
continual development of all aspects of DBL Preferred Management, Inc.,
including the daily management of preferred stock portfolio for institutional
clients, general hedging strategies, and market strategies employed by the firm.
Mr. Lieb's prior employment included the development of the preferred stock
trading desk at Mosley Hallgarten & Estabrook. Mr. Lieb has a B.A. in economics
from Central Connecticut State College and an M.B.A. in finance from the
University of Hartford.

          Mr. Sussman is an Executive Director and the Chief Investment Officer
of Spectrum and is Chairman of Spectrum's Investment Committee. Prior to joining
Spectrum in 1995, Mr. Sussman was employed by Goldman Sachs & Co. for nearly 18
years. A general partner and head of the Preferred Stock Department, he was in
charge of sales, trading and underwriting for all preferred products and was
instrumental in the development of the hybrid (MIPS) market. Mr. Sussman was a
limited partner at Goldman Sachs from December 1994 through November 1996. He
has a B.S. in industrial relations and an M.B.A. in finance from Cornell
University.

          Mr. Jacoby is a Senior Vice President of Spectrum. He joined Spectrum
in 1995 as a Portfolio Manager.  Previously, Mr. Jacoby worked as a senior
investment officer at USL Capital Corporation (a subsidiary of Ford Motor
Corporation) and was a co-manager of a $600 million preferred stock portfolio.
Mr. Jacoby has a B.S. in finance from Boston University.


          Froley, Revy, 10900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles,
California 90024, is a Subadviser to the Fund and is responsible for managing
the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to convertible securities. Froley,
Revy specializes in the management of convertible securities. Froley, Revy
commenced operations in 1975 and had approximately $2.5 billion in assets under
management as of April 30, 2003.

         Froley, Revy is an independently managed wholly owned subsidiary of
First Republic Bank, which is a publicly-traded commercial bank and wealth
management firm. Collectively, subsidiaries and affiliates of First Republic
Bank, including Froley, Revy, managed approximately $7 billion in combined
assets as of April 30, 2003.


         Andrea Revy O'Connell and Michael Revy are the portfolio managers at
Froley, Revy responsible for investing the portion of the Fund's assets
allocated to convertible securities. Ms. O'Connell is President and Chief
Executive Officer of Froley, Revy and has been Managing Director and a Principal
of Froley, Revy since 1994. Mr. Revy is a Senior Vice President, Senior
Portfolio Manager and a Managing Director of Froley, Revy and is responsible for
the development and co-management of Froley, Revy's convertible arbitrage
product. Before joining Froley, Revy in 2002, Mr. Revy was a private banker at
Wechsler & Co., Inc. since 1998, and prior thereto worked for Lehman Brothers
for six years in that firm's convertible bond group.


                                      21



         Pursuant to an investment management agreement between NIAC and the
Fund, the Fund has agreed to pay an annual management fee for the services and
facilities provided by NIAC, payable on a monthly basis, according to the
following schedule:

Average Daily Managed Assets                                        Management
                                                                        Fee
                                                                        ---
Up to $500 million..................................................   .9000%
$500 million to $1 billion..........................................   .8750%
$1 billion to $1.5 billion..........................................   .8500%
$1.5 billion to $2.0 billion........................................   .8250%
Over $2.0 billion...................................................   .8000%

         If the Fund utilizes leverage through the issuance of FundPreferred
shares in an amount equal to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the
amount obtained from leverage), the management fee calculated as a percentage of
net assets attributable to Common Shares would be as follows:

Net Assets Attributable to Common Shares                            Management
----------------------------------------                                Fee
                                                                        ---

Up to $500 million ....................................................1.3500%
$500 million to $1 billion ............................................1.3125%
$1 billion to $1.5 billion ............................................1.2750%
$1.5 billion to $2.0 billion ..........................................1.2375%
Over $2.0 billion .....................................................1.2000%

         Pursuant to investment subadvisory agreements between NIAC and each of
the Subadvisers, each Subadviser will receive from NIAC a management fee equal
to 40% of the management fee payable by the Fund to NIAC (net of the
reimbursements described below) with respect to the Subadviser's allocation of
Managed Assets up to the first $500 million of the average daily Managed Assets
of the Fund allocated to that Subadviser and 35% thereafter.

         In addition to the fee of NIAC, the Fund pays all other costs and
expenses of its operations, including compensation of its trustees (other than
those affiliated with NIAC), custodian, transfer agency and dividend disbursing
expenses, legal fees, expenses of independent auditors, expenses of repurchasing
shares, expenses of issuing any FundPreferred shares, expenses of preparing,
printing and distributing shareholder reports, notices, proxy statements and
reports to governmental agencies, and taxes, if any. All fees and expenses are
accrued daily and deducted before payment of dividends to investors.

         For the first eight full years of the Fund's operation, the Advisers
have contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund for fees and expenses
in the amounts, and for the time periods, set forth below:




                          Percentage                               Percentage
                          Reimbursed                               Reimbursed
                       (as a percentage                         (as a percentage
Year Ending               of Managed          Year Ending          of Managed
  June 30                    Assets)            June 30               Assets)
 ------------             ------------       ------------          ------------
                                                        
    2003(1)                   .32%              2008                   .32%
    2004                      .32%              2009                   .24%
    2005                      .32%              2010                   .16%
    2006                      .32%              2011                   .08%
    2007                      .32%



                                      22



_______________

(1)      From the commencement of operations.


         Reducing Fund expenses in this manner will tend to increase the amount
of income available for the Common Shareholders. The Advisers have not agreed to
reimburse the Fund for any portion of its fees and expenses beyond June 30,
2011.



         Unless earlier terminated as described below, the Fund's investment
management agreement with NIAC and the Fund's investment sub-advisory agreements
(the "management agreements") will remain in effect until August 1, 2004. The
management agreements continue in effect from year to year so long as such
continuation is approved at least annually by (1) the Board of Trustees or the
vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, and (2) a
majority of the trustees who are not interested persons of any party to the
investment management agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the
purpose of voting on such approval. The investment management agreement may be
terminated at any time, without penalty, by either the Fund or NIAC upon 60 days
written notice, and is automatically terminated in the event of its assignment
as defined in the 1940 Act. Each investment sub-advisory agreement may be
terminated at any time, without penalty, by the Fund, NIAC or the Subadviser
party thereto upon 60 days written notice, and is automatically terminated in
the event of its assignment as defined in the 1940 Act.


         The management agreements have been approved by a majority of the
independent trustees of the Fund and the sole shareholder of the Fund. The
independent trustees have determined that the terms of the Fund's management
agreements are fair and reasonable and that the agreements are in the Fund's
best interests. The independent trustees believe that the management agreements
will enable the Fund to obtain high quality investment management services at a
cost that they deem appropriate, reasonable, and in the best interests of the
Fund and its shareholders. In making such determination, the independent
trustees met independently from the interested trustee of the Fund and any
officers of NIAC, Spectrum, Froley, Revy and their affiliates. The independent
trustees also relied upon the assistance of counsel to the independent trustees.


         In evaluating the investment management agreement between the Fund and
NIAC, the independent trustees reviewed materials furnished by NIAC at the
annual advisory contract renewal meeting held in May 2003, including information
regarding NIAC, its affiliates and its personnel, operations and financial
condition. In evaluating the investment sub-advisory agreements, the independent
trustees reviewed materials furnished by Spectrum in May, 2003, including
information regarding Spectrum, its affiliates and its personnel, operations and
financial condition. The independent trustees also reviewed materials previously
furnished by Froley, Revy, including information regarding Froley, Revy, its
affiliates and its personnel, operations and financial condition. The
independent trustees also reviewed, among other things, the nature and quality
of services to be provided by NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy, the proposed fees
to be charged by NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy for investment management
services, the profitability to NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy of their
relationships with the Fund, fall-out benefits to NIAC, Spectrum and Froley,
Revy from that relationship, economies of scale achieved by NIAC, Spectrum and
Froley, Revy, the experience of the investment advisory and other personnel
providing services to the Fund, the historical quality of the services provided
by NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy and comparative fees and expense ratios of
investment companies with similar objectives and strategies managed by other
investment advisers, and other factors that the independent trustees deemed
relevant. The independent trustees, at various times, discussed with
representatives of NIAC, Spectrum and Froley, Revy the Fund's operations and
each of NIAC's, Spectrum's and Froley, Revy's ability to provide advisory and
other services to the Fund.


                                       23




         The Fund, NIAC, Nuveen, Spectrum, Froley, Revy, Citigroup Global
Markets Inc. and other related entities have adopted codes of ethics which
essentially prohibit certain of their personnel, including the Fund's portfolio
managers, from engaging in personal investments which compete or interfere with,
or attempt to take advantage of a client's, including the Fund's, anticipated or
actual portfolio transactions, and are designed to assure that the interests of
clients, including Fund shareholders, are placed before the interests of
personnel in connection with personal investment transactions. Text-only
versions of the codes of ethics of the Fund, NIAC, Nuveen, Spectrum, and Froley,
Revy can be viewed online or downloaded from the EDGAR Database on the SEC's
internet web site at www.sec.gov. You may also review and copy those documents
by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information on
the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at
202-942-8090. In addition, copies of those codes of ethics may be obtained,
after mailing the appropriate duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public
Reference Section, 450 5th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20549-0102 or by e-mail
request at publicinfo@sec.gov.



                      PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE

         Subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each Adviser,
with respect to the securities for which it is responsible, is responsible for
decisions to buy and sell securities for the Fund and the negotiation of
brokerage commissions to be paid. Transactions on stock exchanges involve the
payment by the Fund of brokerage commissions. There generally is no stated
commission in the case of securities traded in the over-the-counter market but
the price paid by the Fund usually includes an undisclosed dealer commission or
mark-up. In certain instances, the Fund may make purchases of underwritten
issues at prices which include underwriting fees.

         NIAC

         NIAC, with respect to the securities for which it is responsible, is
responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for the Fund and for the
placement of the Fund's securities business, the negotiation of the prices to be
paid for principal trades and the allocation of its transactions among various
dealer firms. Portfolio securities will normally be purchased directly from an
underwriter or in the over-the-counter market from the principal dealers in such
securities, unless it appears that a better price or execution may be obtained
through other means. Portfolio securities will not be purchased from Nuveen or
its affiliates except in compliance with the 1940 Act.


         With respect to interests in corporate loans, the Fund generally will
engage in privately negotiated transactions for purchase or sale in which NIAC
will negotiate on behalf of the Fund, although a more developed market may exist
for certain corporate loans. The Fund may be required to pay fees, or forgo a
portion of interest and any fees payable to the Fund, to the lender selling
participations or assignments to the Fund. NIAC will determine the lenders from
whom the Fund will purchase assignments and participations by considering their
professional ability, level of service, relationship with the borrower,
financial condition, credit standards and quality of management. Although the
Fund intends generally to hold interests in corporate loans until maturity or
prepayment of the corporate loan, the illiquidity of many corporate loans may
restrict the ability of NIAC to locate in a timely manner persons willing to
purchase the Fund's interests in corporate loans at a fair price should the Fund
desire to sell such interests. See "Risks" in the Prospectus.


         The Fund expects that substantially all other portfolio transactions
will be effected on a principal (as opposed to an agency) basis and,
accordingly, does not expect to pay any brokerage commissions. Purchases from
underwriters will include a commission or concession paid by the issuer to the
underwriter, and purchases from dealers will include the spread between the bid
and ask price. It is the policy of NIAC to seek the best execution under the
circumstances of each trade. NIAC evaluates price as the primary consideration,
with the financial condition, reputation and responsiveness of the dealer
considered secondary in determining best execution. Given the best execution
obtainable, it will be NIAC's practice to select dealers which, in addition,
furnish research information (primarily credit analyses of issuers and general
economic reports) and statistical and other services to NIAC. It is not possible
to place a dollar value on information and statistical and other services
received from dealers. Since it is only supplementary to NIAC's own research
efforts, the receipt of research information is not expected to reduce
significantly NIAC's expenses. While NIAC will be primarily responsible for the
placement of the business of the Fund, the policies and practices of NIAC in
this regard must be consistent with the foregoing and will, at all times, be
subject to review by the Board of Trustees of the Fund.

         NIAC may manage other investment accounts and investment companies for
other clients which have investment objectives similar to those of the Fund.
Subject to applicable laws and regulations, NIAC seeks to allocate portfolio
transactions equitably whenever concurrent decisions are made to purchase or
sell assets or securities by the Fund and another advisory account. In making
such allocations the main factors to be considered will be the respective
investment objectives, the relative size of portfolio holdings of the same or
comparable securities, the availability of cash for investment and the size of
investment commitments generally held. While this procedure could have a
detrimental effect on the price or amount of the securities available to the
Fund from time to time, it is the opinion of the Board of Trustees that the
benefits available from NIAC's organization will outweigh any disadvantage that
may arise from exposure to simultaneous transactions.

         Spectrum

         In selecting a broker to execute each particular transaction for which
it is responsible, Spectrum will take the following into consideration: the best
net price available; the reliability, integrity and financial condition of the
broker; the size and difficulty in executing the order; and the value of the
expected contribution of the broker to the investment performance of a Fund on a
continuing basis.

         Spectrum may act as broker for the Fund in connection with the purchase
or sale of securities by or to the Fund if and to the extent permitted by
procedures adopted from time to time by the Board of Trustees of the Fund. The
Board of Trustees, including a majority of the trustees who are not "interested"
trustees, has determined that portfolio transactions for the Fund may be
executed through Spectrum if, in the judgment of NIAC and Spectrum, the use of
Spectrum is likely to result in prices and execution at least as favorable to
the Fund as would be available from other qualified brokers and if, in such
transactions, Spectrum charges the Fund commission rates at least as favorable
to the Fund as those charged by Spectrum to comparable unaffiliated customers in
similar transactions. The Board of Trustees also has adopted procedures that are
reasonably designed to provide that any commission, fee or other remuneration
paid to Spectrum is consistent with the foregoing standard. The Fund will not
effect principal transactions with Spectrum. In executing transactions through
Spectrum, the

                                      24



Fund will be subject to, and intends to comply with, Section 17(e) of the 1940
Act and the rules thereunder.

       The cost of the brokerage commissions to the Fund in any transaction
(other than those effected by Spectrum) may be greater than that available from
other brokers if the difference is reasonably justified by other aspects of the
portfolio execution services offered. Subject to such policies and procedures as
the trustees may determine, Spectrum shall not be deemed to have acted
unlawfully or to have breached any duty solely by reason of having caused the
Fund to pay a broker (other than Spectrum) that provides research services an
amount of commission for effecting a portfolio investment transaction in excess
of the amount of commission another broker would have charged for effecting that
transaction if Spectrum determines in good faith that such amount of commission
was reasonable in relation to the value of the research service provided by such
broker viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or Spectrum's
ongoing responsibilities with respect to the Fund. Research and investment
information may be provided by these and other brokers at no cost to Spectrum
and is available for the benefit of other accounts advised by Spectrum and its
affiliates, and not all of the information will be used in connection with the
Fund. Although this information may be useful in varying degrees and may tend to
reduce Spectrum's expenses, it is not possible to estimate its value and in the
opinion of Spectrum it does not reduce expenses in a determinable amount. The
extent to which Spectrum makes use of statistical, research and other services
furnished by brokers is considered by Spectrum in the allocation of brokerage
business but there is no formula by which such business is allocated. Spectrum
does so in accordance with its judgement of the best interests of the Fund and
its shareholders. Spectrum may also take into account payments made by brokers
effecting transactions for the Fund to other persons on behalf of the Fund for
services provided to them for which they would be obligated to pay (such as
custodial and professional fees). In addition, consistent with the Conduct Rules
of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., and subject to seeking
best price and execution, Spectrum may consider sales of shares of the Fund as a
fact in the selection of brokers and dealers to enter into portfolio
transactions with the Fund.

       Certain other clients of Spectrum may have investment objectives and
policies similar to those of the Fund. Spectrum may, from time to time, make
recommendations that result in the purchase or sale of a particular security by
their other clients simultaneously with the Fund. If transactions on behalf of
more than one client during the same period increase the demand for securities
being sold, there may be an adverse effect on the price of such securities. It
is the policy of Spectrum to allocate advisory recommendations and the placing
of orders in a manner that each deems equitable to the accounts involved,
including the Fund. When two or more of the clients of Spectrum (including the
Fund) are purchasing or selling the same security on a given day through the
same broker-dealer, such transactions may be averaged as to price.

       Froley, Revy

       It is the policy of Froley, Revy to secure the execution of orders on its
portfolio transactions in an effective manner at the most favorable price.
Pursuant to its agreement with the Fund, Froley, Revy determines, subject to the
general supervision of the Board of Trustees and in accordance with the Fund's
investment objectives, policies and restrictions, which securities are to be
purchased and sold and which brokers are to be eligible to execute its portfolio
transactions. It is not the policy of Froley, Revy to deal solely with one
broker, but it is Froley, Revy's intention to place portfolio transactions with
those brokers which provide the most favorable combination of price, execution
and services to the Fund. Research services are a factor in selection of
brokers, but payment in excess of brokerage commissions charged by other brokers
is made in recognition of research services. The reasonableness of brokerage
commissions is evaluated by comparison to fees charged by other brokers where
the execution and services are comparable.


                                      25



                                  DISTRIBUTIONS

Level Rate Dividend Policy

         Subject to the determination of the Board of Trustees to implement a
Managed Dividend Policy, as discussed below, commencing with the Fund's first
dividend, the Fund intends to make regular monthly cash distributions to Common
Shareholders at a level rate based on the projected performance of the Fund,
which rate may be adjusted from time to time. The Fund's ability to maintain a
Level Rate Dividend Policy will depend on a number of factors, including the
stability of income received from its investments and dividends payable on Fund
Preferred Shares, if any, and interest and required principal payments on
Borrowings, if any. The net investment income of the Fund consists of all income
(other than net capital gain) less all expenses of the Fund. Expenses of the
Fund are accrued each day. Over time, all the net investment income of the Fund
will be distributed. At least annually, the Fund intends to distribute all of
its net capital gain and ordinary taxable income, if any, after paying any
accrued dividends or making any redemption or liquidation payments to
FundPreferred shareholders, or making interest and required principal payments
on Borrowings, if any. Initial distributions to Common Shareholders are expected
to be declared approximately 45 days, and paid approximately 60 to 90 days, from
the commencement of this offering, depending upon market conditions. Although it
does not now intend to do so, the Board of Trustees may change the Fund's
dividend policy and the amount or timing of the distributions, based on a number
of factors, including the amount of the Fund's undistributed net investment
income and historical and projected net investment income and the amount of the
expenses and dividend rates on the outstanding FundPreferred shares.

         To permit the Fund to maintain a more stable monthly distribution, the
Fund will initially distribute less than the entire amount of net investment
income earned in a particular period. The undistributed net investment income
would be available to supplement future distributions. As a result, the
distributions paid by the Fund for any particular monthly period may be more or
less than the amount of net investment income actually earned by the Fund during
the period. Undistributed net investment income will be added to the Fund's net
asset value and, correspondingly, distributions from undistributed net
investment income will be deducted from the Fund's net asset value.

Managed Dividend Policy

     In June 2002, NIAC, on behalf of itself and certain funds, filed an
exemptive application with the Securities and Exchange Commission seeking an
order under the 1940 Act facilitating the implementation of the Managed Dividend
Policy. The application will be amended to include the Fund as a party. If, and
when, NIAC, on behalf of itself and other parties, receives the requested
relief, the Fund may, subject to the determination of its Board of Trustees,
implement a Managed Dividend Policy.

     Under a Managed Dividend Policy, the Fund would intend to distribute a
monthly fixed amount to Common Shareholders. As with the Level Dividend Rate
Policy, distributions would be made only after paying any accrued dividends or
making any redemption or liquidation payments with respect to FundPreferred
Shares, if any, and interest and required principal payments on Borrowings, if
any. Under a Managed Dividend Policy, if for any monthly distribution, net
investment income and net realized capital gain were less than the amount of the
distribution, the difference would be distributed from the Fund's assets. In
addition, in order to make such distributions, the Fund might have to sell a
portion of its investment portfolio at a time when independent investment
judgment might not dictate such action. The Fund's final distribution for each
calendar year would include any remaining net investment income undistributed
during the year, as well as all net capital gain realized during the year.


         If, for any calendar year, the Fund's total distributions exceeded net
investment income and net realized capital gain (the "Excess"), the Excess,
distributed from the Fund's assets, would generally be treated as a tax-free
return of capital up to the amount of the Common Shareholder's tax basis in
Common Shares, with any amounts exceeding such basis treated as gain from the
sale of Common Shares. The Excess, however, would be treated as ordinary
dividend income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and
profits. Pursuant to the requirements of the 1940 Act and other applicable laws,
a notice would accompany each monthly distribution with respect to the estimated
source of the distribution made.

         There is no guarantee that the Fund will receive an exemptive order
facilitating the implementation of a Managed Dividend Policy or, if received,
that the Board of Trustees will determine to implement a Managed Dividend
Policy. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to change the dividend policy
from time to time.

         In the event the Fund distributed the Excess, such distribution would
decrease the Fund's total assets and, therefore, have the likely effect of
increasing the Fund's expense ratio. There is a risk that the Fund would not
eventually realize capital gains in an amount corresponding to a distribution of
the Excess.


         For tax purposes, the Fund is currently required to allocate net
capital gain and other taxable income, if any, between Common Shares and
FundPreferred shares in proportion to total dividends paid to each class for the
year in which such net capital gain or other taxable income is realized. For
information relating to the impact of the issuance of FundPreferred shares on
the distributions made by a Fund to Common Shareholders, see the Fund's
Prospectus under "Use of Leverage."

         While any FundPreferred shares are outstanding, the Fund may not
declare any cash dividend or other distribution on its Common Shares unless at
the time of such declaration (1) all accumulated dividends on the FundPreferred
shares have been paid and (2) the net asset value of the Fund's portfolio
(determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution)
is at least 200% of the liquidation value of any outstanding FundPreferred
shares. This latter limitation on the Fund's ability to make distributions on
its Common Shares could under certain circumstances impair the ability of the
Fund to maintain its qualification for taxation as a regulated investment
company. See "Tax Matters."

                              DESCRIPTION OF SHARES

COMMON SHARES

         The Fund's Declaration of Trust (the "Declaration") authorizes the
issuance of an unlimited number of Common Shares. The Common Shares being
offered have a par value of $0.01 per share and, subject to the rights of
holders of FundPreferred shares if issued, have equal rights as to the payment
of dividends and the distribution of assets upon liquidation of the Fund. The
Common Shares being offered will, when issued, be fully paid and, subject to
matters discussed in "Certain Provisions in the Declaration of Trust,"
non-assessable, and will have no pre-emptive or conversion rights or rights to
cumulative voting. At any time when the Fund's FundPreferred


                                      26



shares are outstanding, Common Shareholders will not be entitled to receive any
cash distributions from the Fund unless all accrued dividends on FundPreferred
shares have been paid, and unless asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act)
with respect to FundPreferred shares would be at least 200% after giving effect
to such distributions. See "FundPreferred Shares" below.


         The Common Shares have been approved for listing on the New York Stock
Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. The Fund intends to hold annual
meetings of shareholders so long as the Common Shares are listed on a national
securities exchange and such meetings are required as a condition to such
listing.


         Shares of closed-end investment companies may frequently trade at
prices lower than net asset value. Shares of closed-end investment companies
like the Fund have during some periods traded at prices higher than net asset
value and during other periods have traded at prices lower than net asset value.
Because the market value of the Common Shares may be influenced by such factors
as dividend levels (which are in turn affected by expenses), call protection,
dividend stability, portfolio credit quality, net asset value, relative demand
for and supply of such shares in the market, general market and economic
conditions, and other factors beyond the control of the Fund, the Fund cannot
assure you that Common Shares will trade at a price equal to or higher than net
asset value in the future. The Fund's net asset value per share generally
increases when interest rates decline, and decreases when interest rates rise,
and these changes are likely to be greater because the Fund, if market
conditions are deemed favorable, likely will have a leveraged capital structure.
Net asset value will be reduced immediately following the offering after payment
of the sales load and organization and offering expenses. Nuveen has agreed to
pay (i) all organizational expenses and (ii) offering costs (other than sales
load) that exceed $0.03 per Common Share. See "Use of Proceeds." Whether
investors will realize gains or losses upon the sale of Common Shares will not
depend upon a Fund's net asset value but will depend entirely upon whether the
market price of the Common Shares at the time of sale is above or below the
original purchase price for the shares. Since the market price of the Fund's
Common Shares will be determined by factors beyond the control of the Fund, the
Fund cannot predict whether the Common Shares will trade at, below, or above net
asset value or at, below or above the initial public offering price.
Accordingly, the Common Shares are designed primarily for long-term investors,
and investors in the Common Shares should not view the Fund as a vehicle for
trading purposes. See "Repurchase of Fund Shares; Conversion to Open-End Fund"
and the Fund's Prospectus under "Use of Leverage" and "The Fund's Investments."


FUNDPREFERRED SHARES

         The Declaration authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of
FundPreferred shares in one or more classes or series, with rights as determined
by the Board of Trustees of the Fund, by action of the Board of Trustees without
the approval of the Common Shareholders.

         The Fund's Board of Trustees has authorized an offering of
FundPreferred shares (representing approximately 33 1/3% of the Fund's capital
immediately after the time the FundPreferred shares are issued) that the Fund
expects will likely be issued within approximately one and one-half to two
months after completion of the offering of Common Shares. Any such decision is
subject to market conditions and to the Board's continuing belief that
leveraging the Fund's capital structure through the issuance of FundPreferred
shares is likely to achieve the benefits to the Common Shareholders described in
this Statement of Additional Information. The Board has stated that the initial
series of FundPreferred shares would likely pay cumulative dividends at
relatively shorter-term periods (such as 7 days); by providing for the periodic
redetermination of the


                                      27



dividend rate through an auction or remarketing procedure. The Board of Trustees
of the Fund has indicated that the liquidation preference, preference on
distribution, voting rights and redemption provisions of the FundPreferred
shares will be as stated below.

         Limited Issuance of FundPreferred Shares. Under the 1940 Act, the Fund
could issue FundPreferred shares with an aggregate liquidation value of up to
one-half of the value of the Fund's total net assets, measured immediately after
issuance of the FundPreferred shares. "Liquidation value" means the original
purchase price of the shares being liquidated plus any accrued and unpaid
dividends. In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash dividend
or other distribution on its Common Shares unless the liquidation value of the
FundPreferred shares is less than one-half of the value of the Fund's total net
assets (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or distribution)
immediately after the distribution. If the Fund sells all the Common Shares and
FundPreferred shares discussed in this Prospectus, the liquidation value of the
FundPreferred shares is expected to be approximately 33 1/3% of the value of the
Fund's total net assets. The Fund intends to purchase or redeem FundPreferred
shares, if necessary, to keep that fraction below one-half.

         Distribution Preference.  The FundPreferred shares have complete
priority over the Common Shares as to distribution of assets.

         Liquidation Preference. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the affairs of the Fund, holders of
FundPreferred shares will be entitled to receive a preferential liquidating
distribution (expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus
accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon, whether or not earned or declared)
before any distribution of assets is made to holders of Common Shares. After
payment of the full amount of the liquidating distribution to which they are
entitled, holders of FundPreferred shares will not be entitled to any further
participation in any distribution of assets by the Fund. A consolidation or
merger of the Fund with or into any Massachusetts business trust or corporation
or a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund shall not be
deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund.

         Voting Rights. In connection with any issuance of FundPreferred
shares, the Fund must comply with Section 18(i) of the 1940 Act, which requires,
among other things, that FundPreferred shares be voting shares and have equal
voting rights with Common Shares. Except as otherwise indicated in this
Statement of Additional Information and except as otherwise required by
applicable law, holders of FundPreferred shares will vote together with Common
Shareholders as a single class.

         In connection with the election of the Fund's trustees, holders of
FundPreferred shares, voting as a separate class, will be entitled to elect two
of the Fund's trustees, and the remaining trustees shall be elected by Common
Shareholders and holders of FundPreferred shares, voting together as a single
class. In addition, if at any time dividends on the Fund's outstanding
FundPreferred shares shall be unpaid in an amount equal to two full years'
dividends thereon, the holders of all outstanding FundPreferred shares, voting
as a separate class, will be entitled to elect a majority of the Fund's trustees
until all dividends in arrears have been paid or declared and set apart for
payment.

                                      28



        The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund's
outstanding FundPreferred shares of any class or series, as the case may be,
voting as a separate class, will be required to, among other things, (1) take
certain actions which would affect the preferences, rights, or powers of such
class or series or (2) authorize or issue any class or series ranking prior to
the FundPreferred shares. Except as may otherwise be required by law, (1) the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the Fund's
FundPreferred shares outstanding at the time, voting as a separate class, will
be required to approve any conversion of the Fund from a closed-end to an
open-end investment company and (2) the affirmative vote of the holders of at
least two-thirds of the outstanding FundPreferred shares, voting as a separate
class, shall be required to approve any plan of reorganization (as such term is
used in the 1940 Act) adversely affecting such shares, provided however, that
such separate class vote shall be a majority vote if the action in question has
previously been approved, adopted or authorized by the affirmative vote of
two-thirds of the total number of trustees fixed in accordance with the
Declaration or the By-laws. The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of
the outstanding FundPreferred shares, voting as a separate class, shall be
required to approve any action not described in the preceding sentence requiring
a vote of security holders under Section 13(a) of the 1940 Act including, among
other things, changes in a Fund's investment objectives or changes in the
investment restrictions described as fundamental policies under "Investment
Objectives and Policies--Investment Restrictions." The class or series vote of
holders of FundPreferred shares described above shall in each case be in
addition to any separate vote of the requisite percentage of Common Shares and
FundPreferred shares necessary to authorize the action in question.

         The foregoing voting provisions will not apply with respect to the
Fund's FundPreferred shares if, at or prior to the time when a vote is
required, such shares shall have been (1) redeemed or (2) called for redemption
and sufficient funds shall have been deposited in trust to effect such
redemption.

         Redemption, Purchase and Sale of FundPreferred Shares. The terms of the
FundPreferred shares may provide that they are redeemable by the Fund at certain
times, in whole or in part, at the original purchase price per share plus
accumulated dividends, that the Fund may tender for or purchase FundPreferred
shares and that the Fund may subsequently resell any shares so tendered for or
purchased. Any redemption or purchase of FundPreferred shares by the Fund will
reduce the leverage applicable to Common Shares, while any resale of shares by
the Fund will increase such leverage.

         The discussion above describes the Board of Trustees' present intention
with respect to a possible offering of the FundPreferred shares. The terms of
the FundPreferred shares may be the same as, or different from, the terms
described above, subject to applicable law and the Fund's Declaration.


BORROWINGS

         The Declaration authorizes the Fund, without prior approval of the
Common Shareholders, to borrow money. In this connection, the Fund may issue
notes or other evidence of indebtedness (including bank borrowings or commercial
paper) ("Borrowings") and may secure any such borrowings by mortgaging, pledging
or otherwise subjecting as security the Fund's assets. In connection with such
borrowing, the Fund may be required to maintain average balances with the lender
or to pay a commitment or other fee to maintain a line of credit. Any such
requirements will increase the cost of borrowing over the stated interest rate.

         Limitations on Borrowings. Under the requirements of the 1940 Act, the
Fund, immediately after any Borrowings, must have an asset coverage of at least
300%. With respect

                                      29




to any Borrowings, asset coverage means the ratio which the value of the total
assets of the Fund, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by
senior securities (as defined in the 1940 Act), bears to the aggregate amount of
such Borrowings represented by senior securities issued by the Fund. Certain
types of Borrowings may result in the Fund being subject to covenants in credit
agreements relating to asset coverages or portfolio composition or otherwise. In
addition, the Fund may be subject to certain restrictions imposed by guidelines
of one or more NRSROs which may issue ratings for commercial paper or notes
issued by the Fund. Such restrictions may be more stringent than those imposed
by the 1940 Act.

         Distribution Preference. The rights of lenders to the Fund to receive
interest on and repayment of principal of any such Borrowings will be senior to
those of the Common Shareholders, and the terms of any such Borrowings may
contain provisions which limit certain activities of the Fund, including the
payment of dividends to Common Shareholders in certain circumstances.

         Voting Rights. The 1940 Act does (in certain circumstances) grant to
the lenders to the Fund certain voting rights in the event of default in the
payment of interest on or repayment of principal. In the event that such
provisions would impair the Fund's status as a regulated investment company
under the Code, the Fund, subject to its ability to liquidate its relatively
illiquid portfolio, intends to repay the Borrowings. Any Borrowings will likely
be ranked senior or equal to all other existing and future borrowings of the
Fund.

         The discussion above describes the Fund's Board of Trustees' present
intention with respect to an offering of FundPreferred shares or Borrowings.
The terms of the FundPreferred shares and, if authorized by the Board of
Trustees, the terms of any Borrowings may be the same as, or different from,
the terms described above, subject to applicable law and the Fund's Declaration.


                 CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN THE DECLARATION OF TRUST

         Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable for the obligations of the Fund.
However, the Declaration contains an express disclaimer of shareholder
liability for debts or obligations of the Fund and requires that notice of such
limited liability be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered
into or executed by the Fund or the trustees. The Declaration further provides
for indemnification out of the assets and property of the Fund for all loss and
expense of any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the
Fund. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund would be
unable to meet its obligations. The Fund believes that the likelihood of such
circumstances is remote.

     The Declaration includes provisions that could limit the ability of other
entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund or to convert the Fund to
open-end status. Specifically, the Declaration requires a vote by holders of at
least two-thirds of the Common Shares and FundPreferred shares, voting together
as a single class, except as described below, to authorize (1) a conversion of
the Fund from a closed-end to an open-end investment company, (2) a merger or
consolidation of the Fund, or a series or class of the Fund, with any
corporation, association, trust or other organization or a reorganization of the
Fund, or a series or class of the Fund, (3) a sale, lease or transfer of all or
substantially all of the Fund's assets (other than in the

                                      30




regular course of the Fund's investment activities), (4) in certain
circumstances, a termination of the Fund, or a series or class of the Fund or
(5) removal of trustees by shareholders, and then only for cause, unless, with
respect to (1) through (4), such transaction has already been authorized by the
affirmative vote of two-thirds of the total number of trustees fixed in
accordance with the Declaration or the By-laws, in which case the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least a majority of the Fund's Common Shares and
FundPreferred shares outstanding at the time, voting together as a single class,
is required, provided, however, that where only a particular class or series is
affected (or, in the case of removing a trustee, when the trustee has been
elected by only one class), the required vote by only the applicable class or
series will be required. Approval of shareholders is not required, however, for
any transaction, whether deemed a merger, consolidation, reorganization or
otherwise whereby the Fund issues shares in connection with the acquisition of
assets (including those subject to liabilities) from any other investment
company or similar entity. None of the foregoing provisions may be amended
except by the vote of at least two-thirds of the Common Shares and FundPreferred
shares, voting together as a single class. In the case of the conversion of the
Fund to an open-end investment company, or in the case of any of the foregoing
transactions constituting a plan of reorganization which adversely affects the
holders of FundPreferred shares, the action in question will also require the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the Fund's
FundPreferred shares outstanding at the time, voting as a separate class, or, if
such action has been authorized by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the
total number of trustees fixed in accordance with the Declaration or the Bylaws,
the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the Fund's
FundPreferred shares outstanding at the time, voting as a separate class. The
votes required to approve the conversion of the Fund from a closed-end to an
open-end investment company or to approve transactions constituting a plan of
reorganization which adversely affects the holders of FundPreferred shares are
higher than those required by the 1940 Act. The Board of Trustees believes that
the provisions of the Declaration relating to such higher votes are in the best
interest of the Fund and its shareholders.



         The provisions of the Declaration described above could have the
effect of depriving the Common Shareholders of opportunities to sell their
Common Shares at a premium over market value by discouraging a third party from
seeking to obtain control of the Fund in a tender offer or similar transaction.
The overall effect of these provisions is to render more difficult the
accomplishment of a merger or the assumption of control by a third party. They
provide, however, the advantage of potentially requiring persons seeking
control of the Fund to negotiate with its management regarding the price to be
paid and facilitating the continuity of the Fund's investment objectives and
policies.  The Board of Trustees of the Fund has considered the foregoing
anti-takeover provisions and concluded that they are in the best interests of
the Fund and its Common Shareholders.

         Reference should be made to the Declaration on file with the
Commission for the full text of these provisions.

         The Declaration provides that the obligations of the Fund are not
binding upon the trustees of the Fund individually, but only upon the assets
and property of the Fund, and that the trustees shall not be liable for errors
of judgment or mistakes of fact or law. Nothing in the Declaration, however,
protects a trustee against any liability to which he would otherwise be

                                      31




subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.

             REPURCHASE OF FUND SHARES; CONVERSION TO OPEN-END FUND

         The Fund is a closed-end investment company and as such its
shareholders will not have the right to cause the Fund to redeem their shares.
Instead, the Fund's Common Shares will trade in the open market at a price that
will be a function of several factors, including dividend levels (which are in
turn affected by expenses), net asset value, call protection, price, dividend
stability, relative demand for and supply of such shares in the market, general
market and economic conditions and other factors. Because shares of a
closed-end investment company may frequently trade at prices lower than net
asset value, the Fund's Board of Trustees has currently determined that, at
least annually, it will consider action that might be taken to reduce or
eliminate any material discount from net asset value in respect of Common
Shares, which may include the repurchase of such shares in the open market or
in private transactions, the making of a tender offer for such shares at net
asset value, or the conversion of the Fund to an open-end investment company.
There can be no assurance, however, that the Board of Trustees will decide to
take any of these actions, or that share repurchases or tender offers, if
undertaken, will reduce market discount.

         Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time when the Fund's
FundPreferred shares are outstanding, the Fund may not purchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire any of its Common Shares unless (1) all accrued
FundPreferred shares dividends have been paid and (2) at the time of such
purchase, redemption or acquisition, the net asset value of the Fund's portfolio
(determined after deducting the acquisition price of the Common Shares) is at
least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding FundPreferred shares
(expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus any accrued and
unpaid dividends thereon). The staff of the Commission currently requires that
any tender offer made by a closed-end investment company for its shares must be
at a price equal to the net asset value of such shares on the close of business
on the last day of the tender offer. Any service fees incurred in connection
with any tender offer made by the Fund will be borne by the Fund and will not
reduce the stated consideration to be paid to tendering shareholders.

         Subject to its investment limitations, the Fund may borrow to finance
the repurchase of shares or to make a tender offer. Interest on any borrowings
to finance share repurchase transactions or the accumulation of cash by the
Fund in anticipation of share repurchases or tenders will reduce the Fund's net
income. Any share repurchase, tender offer or borrowing that might be approved
by the Board of Trustees would have to comply with the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, as amended, and the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.


         Although the decision to take action in response to a discount from
net asset value will be made by the Board of the Fund at the time it considers
such issue, it is the Board's present policy, which may be changed by the
Board, not to authorize repurchases of Common Shares or a tender offer for such
shares if (1) such transactions, if consummated, would (a) result in the
delisting of the Common Shares from the New York Stock Exchange, or (b) impair
the Fund's status as a regulated investment company under the Code (which would
make the Fund a taxable entity, causing the Fund's income to be taxed at the
corporate level in addition to the taxation of




                                      32





shareholders who receive dividends from the Fund) or as a registered closed-end
investment company under the 1940 Act; (2) the Fund would not be able to
liquidate portfolio securities in an orderly manner and consistent with the
Fund's investment objectives and policies in order to repurchase shares; or (3)
there is, in the Board's judgment, any (a) material legal action or proceeding
instituted or threatened challenging such transactions or otherwise materially
adversely affecting the Fund, (b) general suspension of or limitation on prices
for trading securities on the New York Stock Exchange, (c) declaration of a
banking moratorium by Federal or state authorities or any suspension of payment
by United States or state banks in which the Fund invests, (d) material
limitation affecting the Fund or the issuers of its portfolio securities by
Federal or state authorities on the extension of credit by lending institutions
or on the exchange of non-U.S. currency, (e) commencement of war, armed
hostilities or other international or national calamity directly or indirectly
involving the United States, or (f) other event or condition which would have a
material adverse effect (including any adverse tax effect) on the Fund or its
shareholders if shares were repurchased. The Board of Trustees of the Fund may
in the future modify these conditions in light of experience.

         Conversion to an open-end company would require the approval of the
holders of at least two-thirds of the Fund's Common Shares and FundPreferred
shares outstanding at the time, voting together as a single class, and of the
holders of at least two-thirds of the Fund's FundPreferred shares outstanding
at the time, voting as a separate class, provided however, that such separate
class vote shall be a majority vote if the action in question has previously
been approved, adopted or authorized by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of
the total number of trustees fixed in accordance with the Declaration or
By-laws. See the Prospectus under "Certain Provisions in the Declaration of
Trust" for a discussion of voting requirements applicable to conversion of the
Fund to an open-end company. If the Fund converted to an open-end company, it
would be required to redeem all FundPreferred shares then outstanding, and the
Fund's Common Shares would no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Shareholders of an open-end investment company may require the company to
redeem their shares on any business day (except in certain circumstances as
authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their net asset value, less such
redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of redemption. In
order to avoid maintaining large cash positions or liquidating favorable
investments to meet redemptions, open-end companies typically engage in a
continuous offering of their shares. Open-end companies are thus subject to
periodic asset in-flows and out-flows that can complicate portfolio management.
The Board of Trustees of the Fund may at any time propose conversion of the
Fund to an open-end company depending upon their judgment as to the
advisability of such action in light of circumstances then prevailing.


         The repurchase by the Fund of its shares at prices below net asset
value will result in an increase in the net asset value of those shares that
remain outstanding. However, there can be no assurance that share repurchases
or tenders at or below net asset value will result in the Fund's shares trading
at a price equal to their net asset value. Nevertheless, the fact that the
Fund's shares may be the subject of repurchase or tender offers at net asset
value from time to time, or that the Fund may be converted to an open-end
company, may reduce any spread between market price and net asset value that
might otherwise exist.

         In addition, a purchase by the Fund of its Common Shares will decrease
the Fund's total assets which would likely have the effect of increasing the
Fund's expense ratio. Any purchase

                                      33




by the Fund of its Common Shares at a time when FundPreferred shares are
outstanding will increase the leverage applicable to the outstanding Common
Shares then remaining. See the Fund's Prospectus under "Risks--Concentration
Risk" and "Risks--Leverage Risk."

         Before deciding whether to take any action if the Fund's Common Shares
trade below net asset value, the Board of the Fund would consider all relevant
factors, including the extent and duration of the discount, the liquidity of
the Fund's portfolio, the impact of any action that might be taken on the Fund
or its shareholders and market considerations. Based on these considerations,
even if the Fund's shares should trade at a discount, the Board of Trustees may
determine that, in the interest of the Fund and its shareholders, no action
should be taken.

                                   TAX MATTERS

FEDERAL INCOME TAX MATTERS


         The following discussion of federal income tax matters is based upon
the advice of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC, special counsel to the Fund.

         Set forth below is a discussion of certain U.S. federal income tax
issues concerning the Fund and the purchase, ownership and disposition of Fund
shares. This discussion does not purport to be complete or to deal with all
aspects of federal income taxation that may be relevant to shareholders in
light of their particular circumstances. Unless otherwise noted, this
discussion assumes you are a U.S. shareholder and that you hold your shares as
a capital asset. This discussion is based upon present provisions of the Code,
the regulations promulgated thereunder, and judicial and administrative ruling
authorities, all of which are subject to change, which change may be
retroactive. Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors with
regard to the federal tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, or
disposition of Fund shares, as well as the tax consequences arising under the
laws of any state, non-U.S. country, or other taxing jurisdiction.


         The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify annually as a
regulated investment company under the Code.


         To qualify for the favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment
generally accorded to regulated investment companies, the Fund must, among
other things, (a) derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income
from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans and gains
from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies
or other income derived with respect to its business of investing in such
stock, securities or currencies; (b) diversify its holdings so that, at the end
of each quarter of the taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market value of
the Fund's assets is represented by cash and cash items (including
receivables), U.S.  Government securities, the securities of other regulated
investment companies and other securities, with such other securities of any
one issuer limited for the purposes of this calculation to an amount not
greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and not greater than
10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than
25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than
U.S. Government securities or the securities of other regulated investment
companies) of a single issuer, or two or more issuers which the Fund controls
and are engaged in the same, similar or

                                      34




related trades or businesses; and (c) distribute at least 90% of its investment
company taxable income (as that term is defined in the Code, but without regard
to the deduction for dividends paid).

     As a regulated investment company, the Fund generally will not be subject
to U.S. federal income tax on its investment company taxable income and net
capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term
capital loss), if any, that it distributes to shareholders. The Fund may retain
for investment its net capital gain. However, if the Fund retains any net
capital gain or any investment company taxable income, it will be subject to tax
at regular corporate rates on the amount retained. If the Fund retains any net
capital gain, it may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital
gains in a notice to its shareholders who, if subject to federal income tax on
long-term capital gains, (i) will be required to include in income for federal
income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their share of such
undistributed amount, and (ii) will be entitled to credit their proportionate
shares of the tax paid by the Fund on such undistributed amount against their
federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds to the extent the
credit exceeds such liabilities. For federal income tax purposes, the tax basis
of shares owned by a shareholder of the Fund will be increased by an amount
equal under current law to the difference between the amount of undistributed
capital gains included in the shareholder's gross income and the tax deemed paid
by the shareholder under clause (ii) of the preceding sentence. The Fund intends
to distribute to its shareholders, at least annually, substantially all of its
investment company taxable income and net capital gain.

         Amounts not distributed on a timely basis in accordance with a calendar
year distribution requirement are subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax. To
prevent imposition of the excise tax, the Fund must distribute during each
calendar year an amount equal to the sum of (1) at least 98% of its ordinary
income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses) for the calendar
year, (2) at least 98% of its capital gains in excess of its capital losses
(adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the one-year period ending October 31
of the calendar year, and (3) any ordinary income and capital gains for previous
years that were not distributed during those years and on which the Fund paid no
federal income tax. To prevent application of the excise tax, the Fund intends
to make its distributions in accordance with the calendar year distribution
requirement. A distribution will be treated as paid on December 31 of the
current calendar year if it is declared by the Fund in October, November or
December with a record date in such a month and paid by the Fund during January
of the following calendar year. Such distributions will be taxable to
shareholders in the calendar year in which the distributions are declared,
rather than the calendar year in which the distributions are received.

         If the Fund failed to qualify as a regulated investment company or
failed to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement in any taxable year, the
Fund would be taxed as an ordinary corporation on its taxable income (even if
such income were distributed to its shareholders) and all distributions out of
earnings and profits would be taxed to shareholders as ordinary income. Such
distributions generally would be eligible (i) to be treated as "qualified
dividend income" in the case of noncorporate shareholders and (ii) for the
Dividend Received Deduction in the case of corporate shareholders.

DISTRIBUTIONS

         Dividends paid out of the Fund's investment company taxable income
will be taxable to a shareholder as ordinary income to the extent of the Fund's
earnings and profits, whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares.
Because Spectrum does not intend to invest with a view to maximizing the portion
of the Fund's distributions qualifying for the Dividends Received Deduction or
treatment as "qualified dividend income," any shareholder who otherwise
would qualify for the reduced tax rates on "qualified dividend income" or the
Dividends Received Deduction should assume that dividends paid to it out of the
Fund generally will not qualify for the reduced tax rates on "qualified
dividend income" or the Dividends Received deduction.

         Distributions of net capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital
gain over net short-term capital loss), if any, designated as capital gain
dividends are taxable to a shareholder as long-term capital gains, regardless
of how long the shareholder has held Fund shares. Shareholders receiving
distributions in the form of additional shares, rather than cash, generally
will have a cost basis in each such share equal to the net asset value of a
share of the Fund on the reinvestment date. A distribution of an amount in
excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will be
treated by a shareholder as a return of capital which is applied against and
reduces the shareholder's basis in his or her shares. To the extent that the
amount of

                                      35




any such distribution exceeds the shareholder's basis in his or her shares, the
excess will be treated by the shareholder as gain from a sale or exchange of the
shares.


        The Internal Revenue Service's position in a published revenue ruling
indicates that the Fund is required to designate distributions paid with
respect to its Common Shares and its FundPreferred Shares as consisting of a
portion of each type of income distributed by the Fund. The portion of each
type of income deemed received by the holders of each class of shares will be
equal to the portion of total Fund dividends received by such class. Thus, the
Fund will designate dividends paid as capital gain dividends in a manner that
allocates such dividends between the holders of the Common Shares and the
holders of FundPreferred Shares, in proportion to the total dividends paid to
each such class during or with respect to the taxable year, or otherwise as
required by applicable law.


         Shareholders will be notified annually as to the U.S. federal tax
status of distributions, and shareholders receiving distributions in the form
of additional shares will receive a report as to the net asset value of those
shares.

SALE OR EXCHANGE OF FUND SHARES

         Upon the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund, which a
shareholder holds as a capital asset, such a shareholder may realize a capital
gain or loss which will be long-term or short-term, depending upon the
shareholder's holding period for the shares. Generally, a shareholder's gain or
loss will be a long-term gain or loss if the shares have been held for more
than one year.

         Any loss realized on a sale or exchange will be disallowed to the
extent that shares disposed of are replaced (including through reinvestment of
dividends) within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30
days after disposition of shares. In such a case, the basis of the shares
acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss realized by
a shareholder on a disposition of Fund shares held by the shareholder for six
months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
distributions of net capital gain received by the shareholder with respect to
such shares.

NATURE OF FUND'S INVESTMENTS


         Certain of the Fund's investment practices are subject to special and
complex federal income tax provisions that may, among other things, (i)
disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or
deductions, (ii) convert lower taxed long-term capital gain into higher taxed
short-term capital or ordinary income, (iii) convert an ordinary loss or a
deduction into a capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (iv)
cause the Fund to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of
cash, (v) adversely affect the time as to when a purchase or sale of stock or
securities is deemed to occur and (vi) adversely alter the characterization of
certain complex financial transactions. The Fund may make certain tax elections
in order to mitigate the effect of these provisions.


FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS

         The Fund's transactions in futures contracts and options will be
subject to special provisions of the Code that, among other things, may affect
the character of gains and losses realized by the Fund (i.e., may affect
whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital), may accelerate recognition of
income to the Fund and may defer Fund losses. These rules could, therefore,
affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders. These
provisions also (a) will require the Fund to mark-to-market certain types of
the positions in its portfolio (i.e., treat them as if they were closed out),
and (b) may cause the Fund to recognize income without receiving cash with
which to make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the 90%
distribution requirement for qualifying to be taxed as a regulated investment
company and the 98% distribution requirement for avoiding excise taxes. The
Fund will monitor its transactions, will make the appropriate tax elections and
will make the appropriate entries in its books and records when it acquires any
futures contract, option or hedged investment in order to

                                      36



mitigate the effect of these rules and prevent disqualification of the Fund
from being taxed as a regulated investment company.


RECOGNITION OF INCOME IN THE ABSENCE OF CASH

         Investments by the Fund in zero coupon or other discount securities
will result in income to the Fund equal to a portion of the excess of the face
value of the securities over their issue price (the "original issue discount")
each year that the securities are held, even though the Fund receives no cash
interest payments. In other circumstances, whether pursuant to the terms of a
security or as a result of other factors outside the control of the Fund, the
Fund may recognize income without receiving a commensurate amount of cash. Such
income is included in determining the amount of income which the Fund must
distribute to maintain its status as a regulated investment company and to avoid
the payment of federal income tax and the 4% excise tax. Because such income may
not be matched by a corresponding cash distribution to the Fund, the Fund may be
required to borrow money or dispose of other securities to be able to make
distributions to its shareholders.

         The Code imposes constructive sale treatment for federal income tax
purposes on certain hedging strategies with respect to appreciated financial
positions. Under these rules, taxpayers will recognize gain, but not loss, with
respect to securities if they enter into short sales or "offsetting notional
principal contracts" (as defined by the Code) with respect to, or futures or
forward contracts to deliver, the same or substantially identical property, or
if they enter into such transactions and then acquire the same or substantially
identical property. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to promulgate
regulations that will treat as constructive sales certain transactions that have
substantially the same effect as these transactions.

INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES OF UNCERTAIN TAX CHARACTER

         The Fund may invest in preferred securities, convertible securities or
other securities the federal income tax treatment of which is uncertain or
subject to recharacterization by the Internal Revenue Service. To the extent
the tax treatment of such securities or income differs from the tax treatment
expected by the Fund, it could affect the timing or character of income
recognized by the Fund, requiring the Fund to purchase or sell securities, or
otherwise change its portfolio, in order to comply with the tax rules applicable
to regulated investment companies under the Code.

BACKUP WITHHOLDING

         The Fund may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax from all
taxable distributions and redemption proceeds payable to shareholders who fail
to provide the Fund with their correct taxpayer identification number or to make
required certifications, or who have been notified by the Internal Revenue
Service that they are subject to backup withholding. As modified by the Jobs and
Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003, the backup withholding percentage
is 28% for amounts paid through 2010, after which time the rate will increase to
31% absent legislative change. Corporate shareholders and certain other
shareholders specified in the Code generally are exempt from such backup
withholding. This withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may
be credited against the shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability.

NON-U.S. SHAREHOLDERS


         U.S. taxation of a shareholder who, as to the United States, is a
nonresident alien individual, a foreign trust or estate, a foreign corporation
or foreign partnership (a "non-U.S. shareholder") depends on whether the income
of the Fund is "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on
by the shareholder.


         Income Not Effectively Connected. If the income from the Fund is not
"effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by the
non-U.S. shareholder, distributions of

                                      37



investment company taxable income will be subject to a U.S. tax of 30% (or
lower treaty rate), which tax is generally withheld from such distributions.


         Capital gain dividends and any amounts retained by the Fund which are
designated as undistributed capital gains will not be subject to U.S. federal
withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or lower treaty rate) unless the non-U.S.
shareholder is a nonresident alien individual and is physically present in the
United States for more than 182 days during the taxable year and meets certain
other requirements. However, this 30% tax on capital gains of nonresident alien
individuals who are physically present in the United States for more than the
182 day period only applies in exceptional cases because any individual present
in the United States for more than 182 days during the taxable year is generally
treated as a resident for U.S. income tax purposes; in that case, he or she
would be subject to U.S. income tax on his or her worldwide income at the
graduated rates applicable to U.S. citizens, rather than the 30% U.S. federal
withholding tax. In the case of a non-U.S. shareholder who is a nonresident
alien individual, the Fund may be required to withhold U.S. income tax from
distributions of net capital gain unless the non-U.S. shareholder certifies his
or her non-U.S. status under penalties of perjury or otherwise establishes an
exemption. See "Tax Matters--Backup Withholding," above. Any gain a non-U.S.
shareholder realizes upon the sale or exchange of such shareholder's shares of
the Fund in the United States will ordinarily be exempt from U.S. tax unless, in
the case of a non-U.S. shareholder that is a nonresident alien individual, the
gain is U.S. source income and such shareholder is physically present in the
United States for more than 182 days during the taxable year and meets certain
other requirements, or is otherwise considered to be a resident alien of the
United States.


         Income Effectively Connected. If the income from the Fund is
"effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by a non-U.S.
shareholder, then distributions of investment company taxable income and
capital gain dividends, any amounts retained by the Fund which are designated
as undistributed capital gains and any gains realized upon the sale or exchange
of shares of the Fund will be subject to U.S. income tax at the graduated rates
applicable to U.S. citizens, residents and domestic corporations. Non-U.S.
corporate shareholders may also be subject to the branch profits tax imposed by
the Code.

         The tax consequences to a non-U.S. shareholder entitled to claim the
benefits of an applicable tax treaty may differ from those described herein.
Non-U.S. shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisors with respect
to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.




THE JOBS AND GROWTH TAX RELIEF RECONCILIATION ACT OF 2003


         The Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (the "Act")
reduced the maximum tax rate on long-term capital gains of noncorporate
investors from 20% to 15%. The Act also reduced to 15% the maximum tax rate on
"qualified dividend income" received by noncorporate shareholders; to be
eligible for this reduced rate, a shareholder must satisfy certain holding
period requirements. In the case of a regulated investment company, the amount
of dividends paid by the company that may be eligible for the reduced rate may
not exceed the amount of aggregate qualifying dividends received by the company.
To the extent the Fund distributes amounts of dividends, including capital gain
dividends, eligible for the reduced rates, it will identify the relevant amounts
in its annual tax information reports to its shareholders. Without further
legislative change, the rate reductions enacted by the Act will lapse, and the
previous rates will be reinstated, for taxable years beginning on or after
January 1, 2009.



REGULATIONS ON "REPORTABLE TRANSACTIONS"

         Under recently promulgated Treasury regulations, if a shareholder
recognizes a loss with respect to Common Shares of $2 million or more for an
individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the
shareholder must file with the Internal Revenue Service a disclosure statement
on Form 8886. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases
excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance,
shareholders of a regulated investment company are not excepted. Future guidance
may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders
of most or all regulated investment companies. The fact that a loss is
reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of
whether the taxpayer's treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should
consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations
in light of their individual circumstances.


OTHER TAXES

         Fund shareholders may be subject to state, local and foreign taxes on
their Fund distributions. Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax
advisors with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an
investment in the Fund.

                 PERFORMANCE RELATED AND COMPARATIVE INFORMATION

         The Fund may quote certain performance-related information and may
compare certain aspects of its portfolio and structure to other substantially
similar closed-end funds. In reports or other communications to shareholders of
the Fund or in advertising materials, the Fund may compare its performance with
that of (i) other investment companies listed in the rankings prepared by
Lipper, Inc. ("Lipper"), Morningstar Inc. or other independent services;

                                      38



publications such as Barrons, Business Week, Forbes, Fortune, Institutional
Investor, Kiplinger's Personal Finance, Money, Morningstar Mutual Fund Values,
The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and USA Today; or other industry or
financial publications or (ii) the Standard and Poor's Index of 500 Stocks, the
Dow Jones Industrial Average, Dow Jones Utility Index, the Merril Lynch Hybrid
Preferred Securities Index, the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, the Lehman
Brothers Government Bond Index, the NAREIT Equity REIT Index, the Lehman
Brothers High Yield Index, the Lehman Brothers Credit Index and other relevant
indices and industry publications. The Fund may also compare the historical
volatility of its portfolio to the volatility of such indices during the same
time periods. (Volatility is a generally accepted barometer of the market risk
associated with a portfolio of securities and is generally measured in
comparison to the stock market as a whole - the beta - or in absolute terms -
the standard deviation.) Comparison of the Fund to an alternative investment
should be made with consideration of differences in features and expected
performance. The Fund may obtain data from sources or reporting services, such
as Bloomberg Financial ("Bloomberg") and Lipper, that the Fund believes to be
generally accurate.

         From time to time, the Fund may quote the Fund's total return,
aggregate total return or yield in advertisements or in reports and other
communications to shareholders. The Fund's performance will vary depending upon
market conditions, the composition of its portfolio and its operating expenses.
Consequently any given performance quotation should not be considered
representative of the Fund's performance in the future. In addition, because
performance will fluctuate, it may not provide a basis for comparing an
investment in the Fund with certain bank deposits or other investments that pay
a fixed yield for a stated period of time. Investments comparing the Fund's
performance with that of other investment companies should give consideration
to the quality and maturity of the respective investment companies' portfolio
securities.

         The Fund's "average annual total return" is computed according to a
formula prescribed by the Commission. The formula can be expressed as follows:

         Average Annual Total Return will be computed as follows:

                   ERV = P(1+T)/n/

         Where:      P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
                     T = average annual total return
                     n = number of years
                   ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of the 1-, 5-, or 10-year periods at the end
of the 1-, 5-, or 10-year periods (or fractional portion).


                                       39



         The Funds may also quote after-tax total returns to show the impact
of assumed federal income taxes on an investment in a Fund. A Fund's total
return "after taxes on distributions" shows the effect of taxable
distributions, but not any taxable gain or loss, on an investment in shares of
the Fund for a specified period of time. A Fund's total return "after taxes on
distributions and sale of Fund shares" shows the effect of both taxable
distributions and any taxable gain or loss realized by the shareholder upon the
sale of fund shares at the end of a specified period. To determine these
figures, all income, short-term capital gain distributions, and long-term
capital gains distributions are assumed to have been taxed at the highest
marginal individualized federal tax rate then in effect. Those maximum tax
rates are applied to distributions prior to reinvestment and the after-tax
portion is assumed to have been reinvested in the Fund. State and local taxes
are ignored.

         Actual after-tax returns depend on a shareholder's tax situation and
may differ from those shown. After-tax returns reflect past tax effects and are
not predictive of future tax effects.

         Average Annual Total Return (After Taxes on Distributions) will be
computed as follows:

                  ATV/D/ = P(1+T)/n/

         Where:   P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
                  T = average annual total return (after taxes on distributions)
                  n = number of years
                  ATV/D/   = ending value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment
                           made at the beginning of the period, at the end of
                           the period (or fractional portion thereof), after
                           taxes on fund distributions but not after taxes on
                           redemptions.

         Average Annual Total Return (After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of
Fund Shares) will be computed as follows:

                  ATV/DR/ = P(1+T)/n/

         Where:            P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
                           T = average annual total return (after taxes on
                           distributions and redemption)
                           n = number of years
                  ATV/DR/  =  ending value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment
                           made at the beginning periods, at the end of the
                           periods (or fractional portion thereof), after taxes
                           on fund distributions and redemptions.

         Quotations of yield for the Fund will be based on all investment income
per share earned during a particular 30-day period (including dividends and
interest), less expenses accrued during the period ("net investment income") and
are computed by dividing net investment income by the maximum offering price per
share on the last day of the period, according to the following formula:

                                       40




         Yield = 2 [( a-b/cd +1)/6/ - 1]

         Where:      a = dividends and interest earned during the period
                     b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements)
                     c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during
                         the period that were entitled to receive dividends
                     d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of
                         the period

         Past performance is not indicative of future results. At the time
Common Shareholders sell their shares, they may be worth more or less than their
original investment. See Appendix B for additional performance related and
comparative information.

                                     EXPERTS



         The Financial Statements of the Fund as of June 3, 2003, appearing in
this Statement of Additional Information have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP,
independent auditors, as set forth in their report thereon appearing elsewhere
herein, and is included in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of
such firm as experts in accounting and auditing. Ernst & Young LLP provides
accounting and auditing services to the Fund. The principal business address of
Ernst & Young LLP is 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606.



                          CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT

         The custodian of the assets of the Fund is State Street Bank and Trust
Company, One Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110. The custodian performs
custodial, fund accounting and portfolio accounting services. The Fund's
transfer, shareholder services and dividend paying agent is also State Street
Bank and Trust Company, 225 Franklin Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110.


                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

         A Registration Statement on Form N-2, including amendments thereto,
relating to the shares of the Fund offered hereby, has been filed by the Fund
with the Commission, Washington, D.C. The Fund's Prospectus and this Statement
of Additional Information do not contain all of the information set forth in the
Registration Statement, including any exhibits and schedules thereto. For
further information with respect to the Fund and the shares offered hereby,
reference is made to the Fund's Registration Statement. Statements contained in
the Fund's Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information as to the
contents of any contract or other document referred to are not necessarily
complete and in each instance reference is made to the copy of such contract or
other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, each such
statement being qualified in all respects by such reference. Copies of the
Registration Statement may be inspected without charge at the Commission's
principal office in Washington, D.C., and copies of all or any part thereof may
be obtained from the Commission upon the payment of certain fees prescribed by
the Commission.

                                      41



                        REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


The Board of Trustees and Shareholder of
Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Nuveen
Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2 (the "Fund") as of June 3, 2003
and the related statement of operations for the period from March 17, 2003
(date of organization) through June 3, 2003. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted
in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free
of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our
opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above presents fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at June 3, 2003, and
the results of its operations for the period from March 17, 2003 (date of
organization) through June 3, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States.


                                      /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Chicago, Illinois
June 4, 2003


                                       42




                 NUVEEN PREFERRED AND CONVERTIBLE INCOME FUND 2
                              FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                 Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2
                       Statement of Assets and Liabilities
                                  June 3, 2003




                                                                       
Assets:
    Cash...............................................................   $  100,275
    Offering costs.....................................................    1,330,000
    Receivable from Adviser............................................       11,500
                                                                          ----------
       Total assets....................................................    1,441,775
                                                                          ----------

Liabilities:
    Accrued offering costs.............................................    1,330,000
    Payable for organization costs.....................................       11,500
                                                                          ----------
       Total liabilities...............................................    1,341,500
                                                                          ----------
FundPreferred Shares, $25,000 liquidation value; unlimited number of
    shares authorized, no shares outstanding...........................            -
                                                                          ----------

Net assets applicable to Common Shares.................................   $  100,275
                                                                          ==========

Net asset value per Common Share outstanding ($100,275 divided
    by 7,000 Common Shares outstanding)................................   $   14.325
                                                                          ==========
Net Assets Applicable to Common Shares Represent:
    Common Shares, $.01 par value; unlimited number of shares
       authorized, 7,000 shares outstanding............................   $       70
    Paid-in surplus....................................................      100,205
                                                                          ----------
                                                                          $  100,275
                                                                          ==========


                                       43



                 NUVEEN PREFERRED AND CONVERTIBLE INCOME FUND 2

                             Statement of Operations
    Period from March 17, 2003 (date of organization) through June 3, 2003


                                                                   
Investment income.................................................... $      -
                                                                      --------

Expenses:
   Organization costs................................................ $ 11,500
   Expense reimbursement.............................................  (11,500)
                                                                      --------
      Total expenses.................................................        -
                                                                      --------
Net investment income................................................ $      -
                                                                      ========


Note 1: Organization

The Fund was organized as a Massachusetts business trust on March 17, 2003,
and has been inactive since that date except for matters relating to its
organization and registration as a diversified, closed-end management
investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the sale of 7,000 Common Shares to
Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp., the Fund's investment adviser (the
"Adviser"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc.

Nuveen Investments, LLC, also a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments,
Inc., has agreed to reimburse all organization expenses (approximately $11,500)
and pay all Common Share offering costs (other than the sales load) that exceed
$.03 per Common Share.

The Fund's primary investment objective is high current income.

The Fund is authorized by its Declaration of Trust to issue FundPreferred shares
having a liquidation value of $25,000 per share in one or more classes or
series, with dividend, liquidation preference and other rights as determined by
the Fund's Board of Trustees without approval of the Common Shareholders.

Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies

The Fund's financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States which require the use of
management estimates. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

The Fund's share of Common Share offering costs will be recorded as a reduction
of the proceeds from the sale of Common Shares upon the commencement of Fund
operations. If the Fund offers FundPreferred Shares, the offering costs will be
borne by Common Shareholders as a direct reduction to paid-in surplus.

Note 3: Investment Management Agreement

Pursuant to an investment management agreement between the Adviser and the Fund,
the Fund has agreed to pay a management fee, payable on a monthly basis, at an
annual rate ranging from 0.9000% of the first $500 million of the average daily
net assets (including net assets attributable to FundPreferred Shares and the
principal amount of borrowings ("Managed Assets")) to 0.8000% of the average
daily Managed Assets in excess of $2 billion.

In addition to the reimbursement and waiver of organization and Common Share
offering costs discussed in Note 1, the Adviser has contractually agreed to
reimburse the Fund for fees and expenses in the amount of .32% of average daily
Managed Assets for the first 5 full years of the Fund's operations, .24% in year
6, .16% in year 7 and .08% in year 8. The Adviser has not agreed to reimburse
the Fund for any portion of its fees and expenses beyond June 30, 2011.

Note 4: Income Taxes

The Fund intends to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code
applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net
investment income, in addition to any realized capital gains from investment
transactions.

                                       44




                                   APPENDIX A

                             Ratings of Investments


         Standard & Poor's Corporation --A brief description of the applicable
Standard & Poor's Corporation, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies
("Standard & Poor's" or "S&P"), rating symbols and their meanings (as published
by S&P) follows:


         A Standard & Poor's issue credit rating is a current opinion of the
creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation,
a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program
(including ratings on medium term note programs and commercial paper programs).
It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or
other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation. The issue credit rating is
not a recommendation to purchase, sell, or hold a financial obligation, inasmuch
as it does not comment as to market price or suitability for a particular
investor.

         Issue credit ratings are based on current information furnished by the
obligors or obtained by Standard & Poor's from other sources it considers
reliable. Standard & Poor's does not perform an audit in connection with any
credit rating and may, on occasion, rely on unaudited financial information.
Credit ratings may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes
in, or unavailability of, such information, or based on other circumstances.

         Issue credit ratings can be either long-term or short-term. Short-term
ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the
relevant market. In the U.S., for example, that means obligations with an
original maturity of no more than 365 days - including commercial paper.

         Short-term ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an
obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. The result is a
dual rating, in which the short-term ratings address the put feature, in
addition to the usual long-term rating. Medium-term notes are assigned long-term
ratings.

LONG-TERM ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS

         Issue credit ratings are based in varying degrees, on the following
considerations:

         1.          Likelihood of payment - capacity and willingness of the
                     obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation
                     in accordance with the terms of the obligation;

         2.          Nature of and provisions of the obligation; and

         3.          Protection afforded by, and relative position of, the
                     obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or
                     other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other
                     laws affecting creditors' rights. The issue ratings
                     definitions are expressed in terms of default risk. As
                     such, they pertain to senior obligations of an entity.
                     Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior
                     obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy,
                     as noted above.

                                      A-1




                  AAA

                  An obligation rated 'AAA' has the highest rating assigned by
         Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial
         commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.

                  AA

                  An obligation rated 'AA' differs from the highest-rated
         obligations only in small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its
         financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.

                  A

                  An obligation rated 'A' is somewhat more susceptible to the
         adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions
         than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's
         capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still
         strong.

                  BBB

                  An obligation rated 'BBB' exhibits adequate protection
         parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing
         circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the
         obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

                  BB, B, CCC, CC, And C

                  Obligations rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', 'CC', and 'C' are regarded
         as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the
         least degree of speculation and 'C' the highest. While such obligations
         will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may
         be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse
         conditions.

                  BB

                  An obligation rated 'BB' is less vulnerable to nonpayment
         than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing
         uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic
         conditions, which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to
         meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

                  B

                  An obligation rated 'B' is more vulnerable to nonpayment than
         obligations rated 'BB', but the obligor currently has the capacity to
         meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business,
         financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's
         capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the
         obligation.

                  CCC

                                      A-2



                  An obligation rated 'CCC' is currently vulnerable to
         nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and
         economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on
         the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or
         economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to
         meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

                  CC

                  An obligation rated 'CC' is currently highly vulnerable to
         nonpayment.

                  C

                  The 'C' rating may be used to cover a situation where a
         bankruptcy petition has been filed or similar action has been taken,
         but payments on this obligation are being continued.

                  D

                  An obligation rated 'D' is in payment default. The 'D' rating
         category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the
         date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless
         Standard & Poor's believes that such payments will be made during such
         grace period. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a
         bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an
         obligation are jeopardized.

                  Plus (+) or minus (-). The ratings from 'AA' to 'CCC' may be
         modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative
         standing within the major rating categories.

                  C

                  The 'c' subscript is used to provide additional information to
         investors that the bank may terminate its obligation to purchase
         tendered bonds if the long-term credit rating of the issuer is below an
         investment-grade level and/or the issuer's bonds are deemed taxable.

                  p

                  The letter 'p' indicates that the rating is provisional. A
         provisional rating assumes the successful completion of the project
         financed by the debt being rated and indicates that payment of debt
         service requirements is largely or entirely dependent upon the
         successful, timely completion of the project. This rating, however,
         while addressing credit quality subsequent to completion of the
         project, makes no comment on the likelihood of or the risk of default
         upon failure of such completion. The investor should exercise his own
         judgment with respect to such likelihood and risk.

                  *

                                      A-3



                  Continuance of the ratings is contingent upon Standard &
         Poor's receipt of an executed copy of the escrow agreement or closing
         documentation confirming investments and cash flows.

                  r

                  The 'r' highlights derivative, hybrid, and certain other
         obligations that Standard & Poor's believes may experience high
         volatility or high variability in expected returns as a result of
         noncredit risks. Examples of such obligations are securities with
         principal or interest return indexed to equities, commodities, or
         currencies; certain swaps and options; and interest-only and
         principal-only mortgage securities. The absence of an 'r' symbol should
         not be taken as an indication that an obligation will exhibit no
         volatility or variability in total return.

                  N.R.

                  Not rated.

                  Debt obligations of issuers outside the United States and its
         territories are rated on the same basis as domestic corporate and
         municipal issues. The ratings measure the creditworthiness of the
         obligor but do not take into account currency exchange and related
         uncertainties.

                  Bond Investment Quality Standards

                  Under present commercial bank regulations issued by the
         Comptroller of the Currency, bonds rated in the top four categories
         ('AAA', 'AA', 'A', 'BBB', commonly known as investment-grade ratings)
         generally are regarded as eligible for bank investment. Also, the laws
         of various states governing legal investments impose certain rating or
         other standards for obligations eligible for investment by savings
         banks, trust companies, insurance companies, and fiduciaries in
         general.

                  Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings

                  Notes

                  A Standard & Poor's note ratings reflects the liquidity
         factors and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three
         years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond
         three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The
         following criteria will be used in making that assessment:

                       .    Amortization schedule -- the larger the final
                            maturity relative to other maturities, the more
                            likely it will be treated as a note; and

                       .    Source of payment -- the more dependent the issue is
                            on the market for its refinancing, the more likely
                            it will be treated as a note.

         Note rating symbols are as follows:

                                      A-4



         SP-1

         Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to
possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+)
designation.

         SP-2

         Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some
vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the
notes.

         SP-3

         Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.

         A note rating is not a recommendation to purchase, sell, or hold a
security inasmuch as it does not comment as to market price or suitability for a
particular investor. The ratings are based on current information furnished to
S&P by the issuer or obtained by S&P from other sources it considers reliable.
S&P does not perform an audit in connection with any rating and may, on
occasion, rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings may be changed,
suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in or unavailability of such
information or based on other circumstances.

         Commercial Paper

         An S&P commercial paper rating is a current assessment of the
likelihood of timely payment of debt having an original maturity of no more than
365 days. Ratings are graded into several categories, ranging from 'A-1' for the
highest quality obligations to 'D' for the lowest. These categories are as
follows:

         A-1

         A short-term obligation rated 'A-1' is rated in the highest category by
Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on
the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are
designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to
meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.

         A-2

         A short-term obligation rated 'A-2' is somewhat more susceptible to the
adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than
obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet
its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.

         A-3

         A short-term obligation rated 'A-3' exhibits adequate protection
parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial
commitment on the obligation.

                                      A-5



         B

         A short-term obligation rated 'B' is regarded as having significant
speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its
financial commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing
uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its
financial commitment on the obligation.

         C

         A short-term obligation rated 'C' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for
the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

         D

         A short-term obligation rated 'D' is in payment default. The 'D' rating
category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due
even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poor's
believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The 'D'
rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking
of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.

         A commercial rating is not a recommendation to purchase, sell, or hold
a security inasmuch as it does not comment as to market price or suitability for
a particular investor. The ratings are based on current information furnished to
S&P by the issuer or obtained by S&P from other sources it considers reliable.
S&P does not perform an audit in connection with any rating and may, on
occasion, rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings may be changed,
suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in or unavailability of such
information or based on other circumstances.

                                      A-6



         Moody's Investors Service, Inc.-- A brief description of the applicable
Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") rating symbols and their meanings
(as published by Moody's) follows:

         Municipal Bonds

         Aaa

         Bonds which are rated 'Aaa' are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.

         Aa

         Bonds which are rated 'Aa' are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the 'Aaa' group they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in 'Aaa' securities or fluctuation of
protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements
present which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in 'Aaa'
securities.

         A

         Bonds which are rated 'A' possess many favorable investment attributes
and are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving
security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be
present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.

         Baa

         Bonds which are rated 'Baa' are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.

         Ba

         Bonds which are rated 'Ba' are judged to have speculative elements;
their future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of
interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well
safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of
position characterizes bonds in this class.

         B

                                      A-7



         Bonds which are rated 'B' generally lack characteristics of the
desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of
maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be
small.

         Caa

         Bonds which are rated 'Caa' are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.

         Ca

         Bonds which are rated 'Ca' represent obligations which are speculative
in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.

         C

         Bonds which are rated 'C' are the lowest rated class of bonds, and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.

         #(hatchmark): Represents issues that are secured by escrowed funds held
in cash, held in trust, invested and reinvested in direct, non-callable,
non-prepayable United States government obligations or non-callable,
non-prepayable obligations unconditionally guaranteed by the U.S. Government,
Resolution Funding Corporation debt obligations.

         Con. (...): Bonds for which the security depends upon the completion of
some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally. These are
bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b) earnings of
projects unseasoned in operation experience, (c) rentals which begin when
facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other limiting condition
attaches. The parenthetical rating denotes probable credit stature upon
completion of construction or elimination of the basis of the condition.

         (P): When applied to forward delivery bonds, indicates the rating is
provisional pending delivery of the bonds. The rating may be revised prior to
delivery if changes occur in the legal documents or the underlying credit
quality of the bonds.

         Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 in each generic
rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the
issue ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2
indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates that the issue ranks
in the lower end of its generic rating category.

         Short-Term Loans

         MIG 1/VMIG 1

         This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection
is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or
demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

         MIG 2/VMIG 2

         This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection
are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

                                      A-8



         MIG 3/VMIG 3

         This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and
cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely
to be less well-established.

         SG

         This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt
instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

         Commercial Paper

         Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior
ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment
ability will normally be evidenced by the following characteristics:

         -- Leading market positions in well-established industries.

         -- High rates of return on funds employed.

         -- Conservative capitalization structures with moderate reliance on
debt and ample asset protection.

         -- Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and
high internal cash generation.

         -- Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured
sources of alternate liquidity.

         Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong
ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. This will normally
be evidenced by many of the characteristics cited above but to a lesser degree.
Earnings trends and coverage ratios, while sound, may be more subject to
variation than is the case for Prime-2 securities. Capitalization
characteristics, while still appropriate, may be more affected by external
conditions. Ample alternate liquidity is maintained.

         Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable
ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. The effect of
industry characteristics and market composition may be more pronounced.
Variability in earnings and profitability may result in changes in the level of
debt protection measurements and the requirement for relatively high financial
leverage. Adequate alternate liquidity is maintained.

         Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.

                                      A-9



         Fitch Ratings --A brief description of the applicable Fitch Ratings
("Fitch") ratings symbols and meanings (as published by Fitch) follows:

         Long-Term Credit Ratings

         Investment Grade

         AAA

         Highest credit quality. 'AAA' ratings denote the lowest expectation of
credit risk. They are assigned only in case of exceptionally strong capacity for
timely payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be
adversely affected by foreseeable events.

         AA

         Very high credit quality. 'AA' ratings denote a very low expectation of
credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for timely payment of financial
commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable
events.

         A

         High credit quality. 'A' ratings denote a low expectation of credit
risk. The capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is considered
strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to changes in
circumstances or in economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.

         BBB

         Good credit quality. 'BBB' ratings indicate that there is currently a
low expectation of credit risk. The capacity for timely payment of financial
commitments is considered adequate, but adverse changes in circumstances and in
economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity. This is the lowest
investment-grade category.

         Speculative Grade

         BB

         Speculative. 'BB' ratings indicate that there is a possibility of
credit risk developing, particularly as the result of adverse economic change
over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow
financial commitments to be met. Securities rated in this category are not
investment grade.

         B

         Highly speculative. 'B' ratings indicate that significant credit risk
is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are
currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is contingent upon
a sustained, favorable business and economic environment.

                                      A-10



         CCC, CC, C

         High default risk. Default is a real possibility. Capacity for meeting
financial commitments is solely reliant upon sustained, favorable business or
economic developments. A 'CC' rating indicates that default of some kind appears
probable. 'C' ratings signal imminent default.

         DDD, DD, and D Default

         The ratings of obligations in this category are based on their
prospects for achieving partial or full recovery in a reorganization or
liquidation of the obligor. While expected recovery values are highly
speculative and cannot be estimated with any precision, the following serve as
general guidelines. 'DDD' obligations have the highest potential for recovery,
around 90%-100% of outstanding amounts and accrued interest. `DD' indicates
potential recoveries in the range of 50%-90%, and 'D' the lowest recovery
potential, i.e., below 50%. Entities rated in this category have defaulted on
some or all of their obligations. Entities rated 'DDD' have the highest prospect
for resumption of performance or continued operation with or without a formal
reorganization process. Entities rated 'DD' and 'D' are generally undergoing a
formal reorganization or liquidation process; those rated 'DD' are likely to
satisfy a higher portion of their outstanding obligations, while entities rated
'D' have a poor prospect for repaying all obligations.

         Short-Term Credit Ratings

         A short-term rating has a time horizon of less than 12 months for most
obligations, or up to three years for U.S. public finance securities, and thus
places greater emphasis on the liquidity necessary to meet financial commitments
in a timely manner.

         F1

         Highest credit quality. Indicates the strongest capacity for timely
payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any
exceptionally strong credit feature.

         F2

         Good credit quality. A satisfactory capacity for timely payment of
financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case
of the higher ratings.

         F3

         Fair credit quality. The capacity for timely payment of financial
commitments is adequate; however, near-term adverse changes could result in a
reduction to non-investment grade. B Speculative. Minimal capacity for timely
payment of financial commitments, plus vulnerability to near-term adverse
changes in financial and economic conditions.

         B

         Speculative Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial
commitments, plus vulnerability to near-term adverse changes in financial and
economic conditions.

         C

                                      A-11



     High default risk. Default is a real possibility. Capacity for meeting
financial commitments is solely reliant upon a sustained, favorable business and
economic environment.

     D

     Default. Denotes actual or imminent payment default.

Notes to Long-term and Short-term ratings:

"+" or "-" may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major
rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the 'AAA' Long-term rating
category, to categories below 'CCC', or to Short-term ratings other than 'F1'.

     'NR' indicates that Fitch Ratings does not rate the issuer or issue in
question.

     'Withdrawn': A rating is withdrawn when Fitch Ratings deems the amount of
information available to be inadequate for rating purposes, or when an
obligation matures, is called, or refinanced.

     Rating Watch: Ratings are placed on Rating Watch to notify investors that
there is a reasonable probability of a rating change and the likely direction of
such change. These are designated as "Positive", indicating a potential upgrade,
"Negative", for a potential downgrade, or "Evolving", if ratings may be raised,
lowered or maintained. Rating Watch is typically resolved over a relatively
short period.

     A Rating Outlook indicates the direction a rating is likely to move over a
one to two year period. Outlooks may be positive, stable, or negative. A
positive or negative Rating Outlook does not imply a rating change is
inevitable. Similarly, ratings for which outlooks are `stable' could be
downgraded before an outlook moves to positive or negative if circumstances
warrant such an action. Occasionally, Fitch Ratings may be unable to identify
the fundamental trend. In these cases, the Rating Outlook may be described as
evolving.

                                      A-12




                                   APPENDIX B

                 PERFORMANCE RELATED AND COMPARATIVE INFORMATION


A Fund Designed to Provide High Current Income From A Quality-Oriented Portfolio

Attractive Current Yields

          As of April 30, 2003, investment-grade quality taxable preferred
securities, as well as convertible securities generally, offered attractive
yields to maturity when compared with other fixed-income investments. At least
80% of the Fund's portfolio will be invested in investment-grade quality taxable
preferred securities and in investment-grade and non-investment grade quality
convertible securities.



                            [BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]

Attractive  Yields to Maturity
As of 4/30/03                       Yield to Maturity
Taxable Preferred Securities        6.86%
Corporate Bonds                     4.41%
Convertible Securities              3.92%
Gov't Bonds                         3.07%

Source: Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers, Bloomberg

Please see the paragraph below for more information on the indexes used. All
yields shown are as of April 30, 2003. It is not possible to invest directly in
any of these indexes. The Fund differs from any of these indexes in several
important respects. The Fund will invest in more than one asset class. The
taxable preferred securities index discussed below consists only of
exchange-traded preferred securities, while the Fund may invest in
over-the-counter preferred securities. The convertible securities index
discussed below consists only of companies operating in the U.S., while the Fund
may invest in securities of non-U.S. operating companies. The Fund likely will
use leverage, although there is no assurance leverage will be used. Leverage
carries some risks. Unlike an index, the Fund will charge management fees and
expenses. The yields shown here are for comparison purposes only, and none of
these yields is intended to be predictive of the future yields of these asset
classes or of the Fund.

For the charts and graphs in this Appendix B, convertible securities are
represented by the Merrill Lynch All U.S. Convertibles Index, which consists of
approximately 575 securities with par values greater than $50 million that were
issued by U.S. companies or non-U.S. based issuers that have a significant
business presence in the U.S. Taxable preferred securities are represented by
the Merrill Lynch Preferred Stock Hybrid Securities Index, an unmanaged index of
investment-grade, exchange-traded preferred stocks with outstanding market
values of at least $30 million and at least one year to maturity. Government
bonds are represented by the Lehman Brothers Government Bond Index, an unmanaged
index that includes all public obligations of the U.S. Treasury and all
publicly-issued debt of U.S. Government agencies and quasi-federal corporations,
and corporate debt guaranteed by the U.S. Government, excluding foreign-targeted
issues. Corporate bonds are represented by the Lehman Brothers U.S. Credit
Index, an unmanaged index that includes all publicly-issued, fixed rate,
non-convertible, investment-grade, dollar-denominated SEC-registered corporate
debt having at least one year to maturity and an outstanding par value of $100
million. High yield bonds are represented by the CSFB High Yield Index, which
includes approximately $375 billion of $US-denominated high yield debt with a
minimum of $75 million in par value and at least one rating below
investment-grade. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 large-capitalization,
publicly-traded common stocks representing various industries.

Looking for Attractive Yields from Quality Preferred Securities

The Fund will invest at least 50% of its assets in preferred securities.
Spectrum, the Fund's preferred securities subadviser, will invest in preferred
securities that, at the time of investment, are of investment-grade quality.
Spectrum believes there is a potential advantage in seeking higher yields by
investing in the subordinated preferred securities of solidly-rated
issuers rather than the senior debt of the same companies.

Preferred Securities May Offer Attractive Yields Relative to the Yields of Bonds
Issued by the Same Company








                                                                    Same         Same      Yield
                                                                Company's    Company's    Pick-up
(as of 4/30/03)                     Preferred        Preferred    10-Year      10-Year   (in basis
Security                      Security Rating   Security Yield  Bond Rating  Bond Yield   points)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                            
Harris Bankcorp                       A             7.37%           AA-         4.93%        244
Hartford Financial Services         BBB             7.67%            A-         4.76%        291
HRPT Properties Trust              BBB-             9.17%           BBB         5.20%        397
National Australia Bank               A             7.89%           AA-         4.15%        374
US Bancorp                         BBB+             7.14%             A         4.27%        287
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Bloomberg


This table is for illustrative purposes only, and is designed to highlight one
of the criteria Spectrum may use when evaluating securities for the Fund.
Spectrum will use other criteria as well when selecting the Fund's investments.
There can be no assurance the Fund will or will not invest in the securities of
any of the companies shown here. Yields on these securities do not represent the
yield on the Fund's common shares. This is not a recommendation to purchase any
of these securities.

An Income Fund Positioned For
Enhanced Total Return
If Stock Prices or Interest Rates Rise

Relatively High Correlation Between Equities and Convertible Securities May Lead
to Enhanced Fund Total Return if Equity Prices Rise

Historically, convertible securities have shown relatively high return
correlations with common stocks. We believe that adding convertible securities
to a portfolio of non-convertible fixed-income investments has the potential to
enhance the total return of the portfolio over time if equity prices rise.

                            [BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]

Stocks and Convertible Securities Have Had a Relatively High Return Correlation

April 1998 - April 2003
Correlation of Returns with the S&P 500

S&P 500                           1.00
Convertible Securities            0.77
High Yield Bonds                  0.50
Government Bonds                 (0.40)
Taxable Preferred Securities     (0.08)
Corporate Bonds                  (0.05)

Source: Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers, Ibbotson Associates

Past correlations are not necessarily predictive of future correlations between
any of these asset classes, or between the asset classes and the Fund. It is not
possible to invest directly in any of these indexes. Please see the third
paragraph on page 1 of this Appendix B for more information on the indexes used.
Correlation coefficients are based on monthly return data from April 1998
through April 2003.



Convertible Securities May Enhance the Fund's Total Return if Interest Rates
Rise

Over the past 15 years, the returns of convertible securities have performed
much more consistently in both rising and falling interest rate environments
than most non-convertible fixed-income investments. If this historical pattern
persists, the inclusion of convertible securities in the Fund's portfolio may
provide opportunities for enhanced total return, especially if interest rates
rise in the future.

                            [BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]


Historically, Convertible Securities Have Performed Well in Rising Rate
Environments.




January 1, 1988 - April 1, 2003
Average Annual Returns

                                                                               Taxable
      Convertible             Corporate                Government             Preferred
      Securities                Bonds                    Bonds                Securities
                                                               
   Jan-88     2.666%      Jan-88      3.92%         Jan-88      3.27%       Jan-88
   Feb-88     4.216%      Feb-88      1.37%         Feb-88      1.07%       Feb-88
   Mar-88     0.503%      Mar-88     -0.86%         Mar-88     -1.03%       Mar-88
   Apr-88     1.165%      Apr-88     -0.71%         Apr-88     -0.53%       Apr-88
   May-88    -0.258%      May-88     -0.54%         May-88     -0.71%       May-88
   Jun-88     3.652%      Jun-88      2.39%         Jun-88      2.21%       Jun-88
   Jul-88    -0.298%      Jul-88     -0.23%         Jul-88     -0.68%       Jul-88
   Aug-88    -1.715%      Aug-88      0.42%         Aug-88      0.20%       Aug-88
   Sep-88     1.635%      Sep-88      2.16%         Sep-88      2.18%       Sep-88
   Oct-88     0.730%      Oct-88      1.75%         Oct-88      1.76%       Oct-88
   Nov-88    -1.692%      Nov-88     -0.96%         Nov-88     -1.18%       Nov-88
   Dec-88     1.699%      Dec-88      0.27%         Dec-88      0.38%       Dec-88
   Jan-89     4.135%      Jan-89      1.48%         Jan-89      1.27%       Jan-89
   Feb-89     0.676%      Feb-89     -0.56%         Feb-89     -0.81%       Feb-89
   Mar-89     0.857%      Mar-89      0.29%         Mar-89      0.61%       Mar-89
   Apr-89     2.607%      Apr-89      2.03%         Apr-89      2.14%       Apr-89
   May-89     2.015%      May-89      2.73%         May-89      2.36%       May-89
   Jun-89     0.072%      Jun-89      2.96%         Jun-89      3.34%       Jun-89
   Jul-89     2.200%      Jul-89      1.94%         Jul-89      2.11%       Jul-89
   Aug-89     2.382%      Aug-89     -1.08%         Aug-89     -1.68%       Aug-89
   Sep-89    -0.532%      Sep-89      0.46%         Sep-89      0.43%       Sep-89
   Oct-89    -3.379%      Oct-89      2.30%         Oct-89      2.59%       Oct-89
   Nov-89     0.722%      Nov-89      0.69%         Nov-89      0.97%       Nov-89
   Dec-89     0.245%      Dec-89      0.11%         Dec-89      0.17%       Dec-89
   Jan-90    -3.852%      Jan-90     -1.25%         Jan-90     -1.42%       Jan-90
   Feb-90     1.029%      Feb-90      0.29%         Feb-90      0.20%       Feb-90
   Mar-90     1.843%      Mar-90      0.09%         Mar-90     -0.02%       Mar-90
   Apr-90    -1.783%      Apr-90     -1.04%         Apr-90     -0.88%       Apr-90
   May-90     5.097%      May-90      3.23%         May-90      2.79%       May-90
   Jun-90     0.156%      Jun-90      1.71%         Jun-90      1.58%       Jun-90
   Jul-90    -1.495%      Jul-90      1.13%         Jul-90      1.28%       Jul-90
   Aug-90    -6.517%      Aug-90     -1.59%         Aug-90     -1.39%       Aug-90
   Sep-90    -3.996%      Sep-90      0.46%         Sep-90      0.96%       Sep-90
   Oct-90    -4.929%      Oct-90      0.45%         Oct-90      1.63%       Oct-90
   Nov-90     5.607%      Nov-90      2.06%         Nov-90      2.22%       Nov-90
   Dec-90     2.454%      Dec-90      1.41%         Dec-90      1.55%       Dec-90
   Jan-91     5.124%      Jan-91      1.27%         Jan-91      1.07%       Jan-91
   Feb-91     7.895%      Feb-91      1.71%         Feb-91      0.57%       Feb-91
   Mar-91     2.760%      Mar-91      1.23%         Mar-91      0.51%       Mar-91
   Apr-91     1.599%      Apr-91      1.30%         Apr-91      1.10%       Apr-91
   May-91     3.193%      May-91      0.69%         May-91      0.39%       May-91
   Jun-91    -2.743%      Jun-91     -0.01%         Jun-91     -0.14%       Jun-91
   Jul-91     2.350%      Jul-91      1.44%         Jul-91      1.19%       Jul-91
   Aug-91     3.323%      Aug-91      2.26%         Aug-91      2.32%       Aug-91
   Sep-91     0.183%      Sep-91      2.06%         Sep-91      2.10%       Sep-91
   Oct-91     1.646%      Oct-91      0.95%         Oct-91      0.88%       Oct-91
   Nov-91    -1.427%      Nov-91      0.98%         Nov-91      1.00%       Nov-91
   Dec-91     4.935%      Dec-91      3.27%         Dec-91      3.41%       Dec-91
   Jan-92     4.487%      Jan-92     -1.25%         Jan-92     -1.56%       Jan-92
   Feb-92     2.742%      Feb-92      0.96%         Feb-92      0.39%       Feb-92
   Mar-92    -0.630%      Mar-92     -0.43%         Mar-92     -0.58%       Mar-92
   Apr-92     1.369%      Apr-92      0.50%         Apr-92      0.63%       Apr-92
   May-92     1.769%      May-92      2.23%         May-92      1.85%       May-92
   Jun-92    -1.178%      Jun-92      1.56%         Jun-92      1.43%       Jun-92
   Jul-92     3.200%      Jul-92      2.67%         Jul-92      2.52%       Jul-92
   Aug-92    -0.252%      Aug-92      0.78%         Aug-92      0.93%       Aug-92
   Sep-92     2.069%      Sep-92      1.21%         Sep-92      1.41%       Sep-92
   Oct-92     0.259%      Oct-92     -1.78%         Oct-92     -1.44%       Oct-92
   Nov-92     2.837%      Nov-92      0.16%         Nov-92     -0.17%       Nov-92
   Dec-92     3.049%      Dec-92      1.85%         Dec-92      1.68%       Dec-92
   Jan-93     3.228%      Jan-93      2.33%         Jan-93      2.13%       Jan-93
   Feb-93     0.739%      Feb-93      2.30%         Feb-93      2.00%       Feb-93
   Mar-93     3.813%      Mar-93      0.35%         Mar-93      0.33%       Mar-93
   Apr-93    -0.576%      Apr-93      0.77%         Apr-93      0.77%       Apr-93
   May-93     2.286%      May-93      0.12%         May-93     -0.11%       May-93
   Jun-93     0.656%      Jun-93      2.43%         Jun-93      2.22%       Jun-93
   Jul-93     0.372%      Jul-93      0.72%         Jul-93      0.61%       Jul-93
   Aug-93     2.817%      Aug-93      2.49%         Aug-93      2.23%       Aug-93
   Sep-93     0.990%      Sep-93      0.24%         Sep-93      0.38%       Sep-93
   Oct-93     2.456%      Oct-93      0.50%         Oct-93      0.38%       Oct-93
   Nov-93    -1.384%      Nov-93     -1.23%         Nov-93     -1.10%       Nov-93
   Dec-93     1.524%      Dec-93      0.59%         Dec-93      0.39%       Dec-93
   Jan-94     2.610%      Jan-94      1.94%         Jan-94      1.37%       Jan-94
   Feb-94    -1.266%      Feb-94     -2.36%         Feb-94     -2.12%       Feb-94
   Mar-94    -4.131%      Mar-94     -3.07%         Mar-94     -2.25%       Mar-94
   Apr-94    -1.962%      Apr-94     -0.96%         Apr-94     -0.79%       Apr-94
   May-94    -0.031%      May-94     -0.37%         May-94     -0.13%       May-94
   Jun-94    -1.130%      Jun-94     -0.25%         Jun-94     -0.23%       Jun-94
   Jul-94     1.775%      Jul-94      2.53%         Jul-94      1.84%       Jul-94
   Aug-94     2.586%      Aug-94      0.11%         Aug-94      0.02%       Aug-94
   Sep-94    -1.277%      Sep-94     -1.86%         Sep-94     -1.41%       Sep-94
   Oct-94     0.352%      Oct-94     -0.23%         Oct-94     -0.07%       Oct-94
   Nov-94    -3.054%      Nov-94     -0.16%         Nov-94     -0.18%       Nov-94
   Dec-94    -0.400%      Dec-94      0.83%         Dec-94      0.61%       Dec-94
   Jan-95     0.718%      Jan-95      2.12%         Jan-95      1.86%       Jan-95
   Feb-95     3.126%      Feb-95      2.88%         Feb-95      2.15%       Feb-95
   Mar-95     2.715%      Mar-95      0.82%         Mar-95      0.63%       Mar-95
   Apr-95     2.086%      Apr-95      1.69%         Apr-95      1.31%       Apr-95
   May-95     2.761%      May-95      4.71%         May-95      4.03%       May-95
   Jun-95     3.413%      Jun-95      0.90%         Jun-95      0.77%       Jun-95
   Jul-95     3.382%      Jul-95     -0.44%         Jul-95     -0.37%       Jul-95
   Aug-95     1.465%      Aug-95      1.61%         Aug-95      1.17%       Aug-95
   Sep-95     1.301%      Sep-95      1.18%         Sep-95      0.96%       Sep-95
   Oct-95    -2.719%      Oct-95      1.30%         Oct-95      1.52%       Oct-95
   Nov-95     3.836%      Nov-95      1.91%         Nov-95      1.56%       Nov-95
   Dec-95     0.370%      Dec-95      1.65%         Dec-95      1.42%       Dec-95
   Jan-96     3.083%      Jan-96      0.65%         Jan-96      0.61%       Jan-96
   Feb-96     2.258%      Feb-96     -2.38%         Feb-96     -2.04%       Feb-96
   Mar-96     1.044%      Mar-96     -0.85%         Mar-96     -0.83%       Mar-96
   Apr-96     1.859%      Apr-96     -0.83%         Apr-96     -0.64%       Apr-96
   May-96     2.210%      May-96     -0.18%         May-96     -0.17%       May-96
   Jun-96    -1.481%      Jun-96      1.47%         Jun-96      1.29%       Jun-96
   Jul-96    -4.260%      Jul-96      0.19%         Jul-96      0.25%       Jul-96
   Aug-96     3.857%      Aug-96     -0.31%         Aug-96     -0.22%       Aug-96
   Sep-96     2.753%      Sep-96      2.12%         Sep-96      1.66%       Sep-96
   Oct-96     1.206%      Oct-96      2.73%         Oct-96      2.20%       Oct-96
   Nov-96     3.379%      Nov-96      2.14%         Nov-96      1.74%       Nov-96
   Dec-96    -0.735%      Dec-96     -1.38%         Dec-96     -1.02%       Dec-96
   Jan-97     2.914%      Jan-97      0.14%         Jan-97      0.11%       Jan-97
   Feb-97    -0.373%      Feb-97      0.42%         Feb-97      0.14%       Feb-97       1.26%
   Mar-97    -2.146%      Mar-97     -1.56%         Mar-97     -1.06%       Mar-97      -0.81%
   Apr-97     0.909%      Apr-97      1.52%         Apr-97      1.44%       Apr-97       1.17%
   May-97     5.073%      May-97      1.13%         May-97      0.86%       May-97       1.13%
   Jun-97     3.137%      Jun-97      1.42%         Jun-97      1.12%       Jun-97       1.05%
   Jul-97     5.709%      Jul-97      3.66%         Jul-97      2.84%       Jul-97       2.01%
   Aug-97    -0.542%      Aug-97     -1.48%         Aug-97     -0.99%       Aug-97      -0.07%
   Sep-97     4.623%      Sep-97      1.75%         Sep-97      1.50%       Sep-97       1.67%
   Oct-97    -1.926%      Oct-97      1.27%         Oct-97      1.73%       Oct-97      -0.43%
   Nov-97     0.042%      Nov-97      0.56%         Nov-97      0.51%       Nov-97       1.52%
   Dec-97     0.978%      Dec-97      1.06%         Dec-97      1.05%       Dec-97       1.17%
   Jan-98     0.308%      Jan-98      1.19%         Jan-98      1.50%       Jan-98       0.80%
   Feb-98     4.428%      Feb-98     -0.03%         Feb-98     -0.27%       Feb-98       0.06%
   Mar-98     3.676%      Mar-98      0.37%         Mar-98      0.28%       Mar-98      -0.24%
   Apr-98     0.628%      Apr-98      0.63%         Apr-98      0.45%       Apr-98       0.18%
   May-98    -2.209%      May-98      1.19%         May-98      1.03%       May-98       0.80%
   Jun-98     0.844%      Jun-98      0.74%         Jun-98      1.14%       Jun-98       1.06%
   Jul-98    -1.588%      Jul-98     -0.09%         Jul-98      0.15%       Jul-98       0.69%
   Aug-98   -11.490%      Aug-98      0.47%         Aug-98      2.60%       Aug-98       0.51%
   Sep-98     1.996%      Sep-98      3.24%         Sep-98      2.70%       Sep-98       0.98%
   Oct-98     2.583%      Oct-98     -1.54%         Oct-98     -0.34%       Oct-98       0.59%
   Nov-98     4.777%      Nov-98      1.88%         Nov-98      0.03%       Nov-98       0.81%
   Dec-98     5.851%      Dec-98      0.29%         Dec-98      0.22%       Dec-98       0.90%
   Jan-99     4.933%      Jan-99      0.99%         Jan-99      0.58%       Jan-99       0.53%
   Feb-99    -3.494%      Feb-99     -2.37%         Feb-99     -2.38%       Feb-99       0.00%
   Mar-99     4.138%      Mar-99      0.71%         Mar-99      0.39%       Mar-99       0.34%
   Apr-99     4.059%      Apr-99      0.29%         Apr-99      0.23%       Apr-99       0.68%
   May-99    -0.505%      May-99     -1.34%         May-99     -0.88%       May-99       0.22%
   Jun-99     3.686%      Jun-99     -0.52%         Jun-99     -0.20%       Jun-99      -0.30%
   Jul-99    -0.639%      Jul-99     -0.55%         Jul-99     -0.15%       Jul-99      -0.75%
   Aug-99    -1.260%      Aug-99     -0.24%         Aug-99      0.00%       Aug-99       0.28%
   Sep-99     0.658%      Sep-99      1.09%         Sep-99      0.81%       Sep-99      -0.44%
   Oct-99     3.920%      Oct-99      0.46%         Oct-99      0.16%       Oct-99       0.17%
   Nov-99     5.792%      Nov-99      0.11%         Nov-99     -0.14%       Nov-99      -1.96%
   Dec-99    13.546%      Dec-99     -0.53%         Dec-99     -0.65%       Dec-99      -3.46%
   Jan-00    -0.024%      Jan-00     -0.35%         Jan-00      0.14%       Jan-00       2.40%
   Feb-00     8.413%      Feb-00      0.93%         Feb-00      1.42%       Feb-00      -1.31%
   Mar-00    -0.142%      Mar-00      0.85%         Mar-00      1.76%       Mar-00       2.12%
   Apr-00    -6.896%      Apr-00     -0.88%         Apr-00     -0.28%       Apr-00       0.99%
   May-00    -4.331%      May-00     -0.37%         May-00      0.06%       May-00       0.16%
   Jun-00     5.148%      Jun-00      2.51%         Jun-00      1.78%       Jun-00       3.20%
   Jul-00    -2.967%      Jul-00      1.21%         Jul-00      0.97%       Jul-00       2.22%
   Aug-00     7.681%      Aug-00      1.30%         Aug-00      1.48%       Aug-00       2.23%
   Sep-00    -3.263%      Sep-00      0.53%         Sep-00      0.28%       Sep-00       0.99%
   Oct-00    -3.912%      Oct-00      0.10%         Oct-00      0.96%       Oct-00       0.06%
   Nov-00   -11.953%      Nov-00      1.30%         Nov-00      1.97%       Nov-00       1.83%
   Dec-00     3.828%      Dec-00      1.94%         Dec-00      1.99%       Dec-00       1.65%
   Jan-01     6.220%      Jan-01      2.74%         Jan-01      1.01%       Jan-01       1.17%
   Feb-01    -7.510%      Feb-01      0.87%         Feb-01      1.14%       Feb-01       0.61%
   Mar-01    -4.329%      Mar-01      0.62%         Mar-01      0.35%       Mar-01       0.89%
   Apr-01     6.711%      Apr-01     -0.36%         Apr-01     -1.02%       Apr-01      -0.20%
   May-01    -0.624%      May-01      0.92%         May-01      0.33%       May-01       1.26%
   Jun-01    -1.578%      Jun-01      0.51%         Jun-01      0.46%       Jun-01       1.35%
   Jul-01    -1.439%      Jul-01      2.61%         Jul-01      2.40%       Jul-01       0.69%
   Aug-01    -1.765%      Aug-01      1.34%         Aug-01      1.24%       Aug-01       1.26%
   Sep-01    -5.967%      Sep-01     -0.15%         Sep-01      1.74%       Sep-01      -0.54%
   Oct-01     2.056%      Oct-01      2.48%         Oct-01      2.58%       Oct-01       1.02%
   Nov-01     2.676%      Nov-01     -0.87%         Nov-01     -2.24%       Nov-01       0.55%
   Dec-01     2.104%      Dec-01     -0.69%         Dec-01     -0.87%       Dec-01       0.60%
   Jan-02    -1.580%      Jan-02      0.85%         Jan-02      0.65%       Jan-02       0.69%
   Feb-02    -2.836%      Feb-02      0.76%         Feb-02      0.92%       Feb-02       0.14%
   Mar-02     3.590%      Mar-02     -1.85%         Mar-02     -2.17%       Mar-02      -1.06%
   Apr-02    -1.455%      Apr-02      1.39%         Apr-02      2.38%       Apr-02       0.85%
   May-02    -0.873%      May-02      1.32%         May-02      0.60%       May-02       0.61%
   Jun-02    -5.417%      Jun-02      0.16%         Jun-02      1.40%       Jun-02       0.33%
   Jul-02    -5.991%      Jul-02     -0.05%         Jul-02      2.20%       Jul-02      -0.08%
   Aug-02     1.242%      Aug-02      2.59%         Aug-02      1.98%       Aug-02       2.40%
   Sep-02    -3.525%      Sep-02      1.90%         Sep-02      2.34%       Sep-02       1.13%
   Oct-02     2.230%      Oct-02     -1.16%         Oct-02     -0.80%       Oct-02      -1.98%
   Nov-02     7.212%      Nov-02      1.30%         Nov-02     -0.86%       Nov-02       1.83%
   Dec-02    -0.753%      Dec-02      2.95%         Dec-02      2.42%       Dec-02       1.39%
   Jan-03     1.608%      Jan-03      0.32%         Jan-03     -0.25%       Jan-03       1.11%
   Feb-03    -0.239%      Feb-03      2.00%         Feb-03      1.61%       Feb-03       0.62%
   Mar-03     1.689%      Mar-03      0.07%         Mar-03     -0.29%       Mar-03       0.23%
   Apr-03     5.044%      Apr-03      1.85%         Apr-03      0.46%       Apr-03       1.59%



                                                 
Rising Rate Environment
     Convertible Securities                           13.76%
     Corporate Bonds                                   1.44%
     Government Bonds                                  1.20%
     Taxable Preferred Securities                      0.77%

Falling Rate Environment
     Convertible Securities                            9.55%
     Corporate Bonds                                  11.99%
     Government Bonds                                 11.10%
     Taxable Preferred Securities                     10.19%

All Environments
     Convertible Securities                           10.64%
     Corporate Bonds                                   9.13%
     Government Bonds                                  8.43%
     Taxable Preferred Securities                      7.72%


Rising rate environments include: 1/88-3/89, 11/93-12/94, 11/98-5/00

Falling rate environments include: 4/89-10/93, 1/95-10/98, 6/00-4/03

Preferred Securities returns are for the period from February 1997 (the
inception of the index) through April 2003

Source: Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers

Past performance does not guarantee future results. These average annual total
returns were calculated using monthly returns for each index over the respective
rising rate and falling rate time periods, as well as for the entire time
period. Please see the third paragraph on page 1 of this Appendix B for more
information on the indexes used. It is not possible to invest directly in any of
these indexes.

Yield Spreads Are Now Wide by
10-Year Historical Standards

Looking at the last ten years, the current yield spread between high yield bonds
and the ten-year U.S. Treasury bond is relatively wide. By investing a portion
of its portfolio in high yield bonds, the Fund will position those assets to
earn high current income and potentially enhance the Fund's total return if the
high yield/Treasury spread narrows in the future.

                              [GRAPH APPEARS HERE]

Yield Spread Between High Yield Bonds and 10-Year Treasuries is Wide

April 1993 - April 2003
Current Yield



Date     High Yield Bonds    10-Year Treasury      Yield Spread
----     ----------------    ----------------      ------------
                                          
Apr-93        0.0971              5.97%               3.74%
May-93        0.0962              6.04%               3.58%
Jun-93         0.093              5.96%               3.34%
Jul-93        0.0925              5.81%               3.44%
Aug-93        0.0926              5.68%               3.58%
Sep-93        0.0943              5.36%               4.07%
Oct-93        0.0927              5.33%               3.94%
Nov-93        0.0932              5.72%               3.60%
Dec-93        0.0926              5.77%               3.49%
Jan-94        0.0887              5.75%               3.12%
Feb-94        0.0912              5.97%               3.15%
Mar-94        0.1012              6.48%               3.64%
Apr-94        0.1058              6.97%               3.61%
May-94        0.1066              7.18%               3.48%
Jun-94        0.1092              7.10%               3.82%
Jul-94        0.1101              7.30%               3.71%
Aug-94        0.1113              7.24%               3.89%
Sep-94        0.1134              7.46%               3.88%
Oct-94        0.1156              7.74%               3.82%
Nov-94        0.1196              7.96%               4.00%
Dec-94        0.1198              7.81%               4.17%
Jan-95        0.1192              7.78%               4.14%
Feb-95        0.1147              7.47%               4.00%
Mar-95        0.1147              7.20%               4.27%
Apr-95        0.1116              7.06%               4.10%
May-95        0.1069              6.63%               4.06%
Jun-95        0.1073              6.17%               4.56%
Jul-95        0.1053              6.28%               4.25%
Aug-95        0.1063              6.49%               4.14%
Sep-95        0.1056              6.20%               4.36%
Oct-95         0.104              6.04%               4.36%
Nov-95        0.1037              5.93%               4.44%
Dec-95        0.1018              5.71%               4.47%
Jan-96        0.0995              5.65%               4.30%
Feb-96        0.0994              5.81%               4.13%
Mar-96        0.1023              6.27%               3.96%
Apr-96         0.103              6.51%               3.79%
May-96        0.1034              6.74%               3.60%
Jun-96        0.1044              6.91%               3.53%
Jul-96        0.1046              6.87%               3.59%
Aug-96        0.1036              6.64%               3.72%
Sep-96        0.0997              6.83%               3.14%
Oct-96        0.0998              6.53%               3.45%
Nov-96        0.0978              6.20%               3.58%
Dec-96        0.0958              6.30%               3.28%
Jan-97        0.0958              6.58%               3.00%
Feb-97         0.094              6.42%               2.98%
Mar-97        0.0999              6.69%               3.30%
Apr-97        0.0996              6.89%               3.07%
May-97        0.0963              6.71%               2.92%
Jun-97        0.0951              6.49%               3.02%
Jul-97        0.0916              6.22%               2.94%
Aug-97        0.0938              6.30%               3.08%
Sep-97        0.0906              6.21%               2.85%
Oct-97        0.0933              6.03%               3.30%
Nov-97        0.0926              5.88%               3.38%
Dec-97        0.0928              5.81%               3.47%
Jan-98        0.0905              5.54%               3.51%
Feb-98        0.0906              5.57%               3.49%
Mar-98        0.0905              5.65%               3.40%
Apr-98        0.0919              5.64%               3.55%
May-98        0.0938              5.65%               3.73%
Jun-98        0.0955              5.50%               4.05%
Jul-98        0.0948              5.46%               4.02%
Aug-98        0.1105              5.34%               5.71%
Sep-98         0.112              4.81%               6.39%
Oct-98        0.1176              4.53%               7.23%
Nov-98        0.1077              4.83%               5.94%
Dec-98        0.1101              4.65%               6.36%
Jan-99        0.1086              4.72%               6.14%
Feb-99        0.1108              5.00%               6.08%
Mar-99          0.11              5.23%               5.77%
Apr-99        0.1061              5.18%               5.43%
May-99        0.1102              5.54%               5.48%
Jun-99        0.1118              5.90%               5.28%
Jul-99        0.1134              5.79%               5.55%
Aug-99        0.1163              5.94%               5.69%
Sep-99         0.119              5.92%               5.98%
Oct-99        0.1213              6.11%               6.02%
Nov-99        0.1193              6.03%               5.90%
Dec-99        0.1191              6.28%               5.63%
Jan-00         0.122              6.66%               5.54%
Feb-00         0.123              6.52%               5.78%
Mar-00        0.1285              6.26%               6.59%
Apr-00        0.1301              5.99%               7.02%
May-00        0.1346              6.44%               7.02%
Jun-00        0.1317              6.10%               7.07%
Jul-00        0.1317              6.05%               7.12%
Aug-00        0.1319              5.83%               7.36%
Sep-00        0.1351              5.80%               7.71%
Oct-00        0.1421              5.74%               8.47%
Nov-00        0.1504              5.72%               9.32%
Dec-00        0.1499              5.24%               9.75%
Jan-01        0.1357              5.16%               8.41%
Feb-01        0.1305              5.10%               7.95%
Mar-01        0.1324              4.89%               8.35%
Apr-01        0.1322              5.15%               8.07%
May-01        0.1283              5.39%               7.44%
Jun-01        0.1314              5.28%               7.86%
Jul-01        0.1289              5.24%               7.65%
Aug-01        0.1264              4.97%               7.67%
Sep-01        0.1408              4.73%               9.35%
Oct-01        0.1354              4.57%               8.97%
Nov-01        0.1282              4.19%               8.63%
Dec-01        0.1299              5.09%               7.90%
Jan-02        0.1277              5.04%               7.73%
Feb-02        0.1273              4.91%               7.82%
Mar-02        0.1218              5.28%               6.90%
Apr-02        0.1173              5.21%               6.52%
May-02        0.1163              5.16%               6.47%
Jun-02        0.1227              4.93%               7.34%
Jul-02        0.1312              4.65%               8.47%
Aug-02        0.1302              4.26%               8.76%
Sep-02        0.1342              3.87%               9.55%
Oct-02        0.1378              3.94%               9.84%
Nov-02        0.1263              4.05%               8.58%
Dec-02        0.1231              4.03%               8.28%
Jan-03        0.1186              4.05%               7.81%
Feb-03        0.1158              3.90%               7.68%
Mar-03        0.1103              3.81%               7.22%
Apr-03        0.1020              3.84%               6.36%


Source: Bloomberg

Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investing in high yield
securities carries special risks. Please see the Fund's prospectus for more
information on these risks. There can be no assurance that the yield spread
between high yield bonds in which the Fund may invest and U.S. Government bonds
will narrow. Please see the third paragraph on page 1 of this Appendix B for
more information on the High Yield Index used. It is not possible to invest
directly in an index. Ten-year Treasury notes are backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. Government.







Who Might Be Interested?

The features and objectives of this Fund might be especially appealing to those:

.. Already investing in preferred or convertible securities

.. Looking for high current income and the opportunity for enhanced total return

.. Seeking additional diversification within their investment portfolios

.. Interested in trading convenience and flexibility

.. Reassured by the experience of Nuveen, Spectrum and Froley, Revy


For Which Accounts is this Fund Appropriate?

Although this Fund may be appropriate for a wide range of investors and
accounts, it may be particularly attractive for investors with:

.. Tax-deferred or tax-advantaged accounts such as retirement plans

.. Taxable accounts with relatively low current taxable income

.. Accounts that now contain preferred or convertible securities


Benefits of Purchasing In The IPO

We believe investors can take advantage of several benefits by purchasing
shares during the initial public offering, including:

- Known price - $15 per share

- The same price for all shares in an order - no matter what the order size, all
  orders are filled at the same $15 per share (100 share minimum)



Exchange-Traded Liquidity


The Fund expects to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange, which should
provide you with liquidity, convenience and daily price visibility through
electronic services and in newspaper stock tables.

Like any stock, the Fund's share price will fluctuate with market conditions and
other factors. At the time of sale, your shares may have a market price that is
above or below net asset value, and may be worth more or less than your original
investment. The common shares are designed primarily for long-term investors,
and you should not view the Fund as a vehicle for trading purposes.

Proven Management


According to Thomson Wealth Management, Nuveen is the leading sponsor of
closed-end exchange-traded funds, as measured by the number of funds (103) and
fund assets under management (approximately $42 billion), as of April 30, 2003.

Spectrum Asset Management was founded in 1987 and is one of the country's
leading specialists in the management of preferred securities. With
approximately $8 billion in assets under management (as of April 30, 2003),
Spectrum is led by two principals with a combined 50 years of preferred
securities experience. Each member of the investment team averages more than 15
years' experience in the preferred securities market.

Founded in 1975, Froley, Revy is one of the oldest firms specializing in
convertible securities management. As of April 30, 2003, the firm managed
approximately $2.5 billion in assets on behalf of pension funds, closed-end
exchange-traded funds, insurance companies, endowments, foundations and high net
worth individuals. Each member of the Froley, Revy portfolio management team has
more than 9 years' experience in the convertible securities markets.

A three-person team of high yield debt specialists from NIAC will manage the
high yield and other debt instruments portion of the Fund's portfolio. This team
has more than 25 years' cumulative experience in the high yield and related debt
markets.


                                       B-1




     Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund 2            Common Shares



                  -------------------------------------------

                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

                  -------------------------------------------

                                         , 2003




                           PART C - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 24: Financial Statements and Exhibits

     1.  Financial Statements:

     Registrant has not conducted any business as of the date of this filing,
other than in connection with its organization. Financial Statements indicating
that the Registrant has met the net worth requirements of Section 14(a) of the
1940 Act are filed with this Pre-effective Amendment to the Registration
Statement.

     2.  Exhibits:

a.   Declaration of Trust dated March 17, 2003. Filed on April 17, 2003 as
     Exhibit a to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File No.
     333-104599) and incorporated herein by reference.*

b.   By-laws of Registrant. Filed on April 17, 2003 as Exhibit b to Registrant's
     Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated
     herein by reference.*

c.   None.

d.   Form of Share Certificate. Filed on May 21, 2003 as Exhibit d to
     Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on
     Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by reference.*

e.   Terms and Conditions of the Dividend Reinvestment Plan. Filed on May 21,
     2003 as Exhibit e to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's
     Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated
     herein by reference.*

     f. None.

g.1  Investment Management Agreement between Registrant and Nuveen Institutional
     Advisory Corp. dated May 15, 2003. Filed on May 21, 2003 as Exhibit g.1
     to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on
     Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by reference.*

g.2  Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between Nuveen Institutional Advisory
     Corp. and Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. dated May 15, 2003.

g.3  Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between Nuveen Institutional Advisory
     Corp. and Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. dated May 15, 2003.

h.1  Form of Underwriting Agreement.

h.2  Form of Salomon Smith Barney Inc. Master Selected Dealer Agreement.

h.3  Form of Nuveen Master Selected Dealer Agreement.

h.4 Form of Salomon Smith Barney Inc. Master Agreement Among Underwriters.

h.5  Form of Dealer Letter Agreement.

i.   Nuveen Open-End and Closed-End Funds Deferred Compensation Plan for
     Independent Directors and Trustees. Filed on May 21, 2003 as Exhibit i to
     Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on
     Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by reference.*

j.   Master Custodian Agreement between Registrant and State Street Bank and
     Trust Company dated August 19, 2002.

k.1  Shareholder Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and
     State Street Bank and Trust Company dated October 7, 2002.

k.2  Expense Reimbursement Agreement between Registrant and Nuveen Institutional
     Advisory Corp. dated May 15, 2003.  Filed on May 21, 2003 as Exhibit k.2 to
     Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on
     Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by reference.*

                                       C-1




l.1  Opinion and consent of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC. Filed on May 21, 2003 as
     Exhibit l.1 to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration
     Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by
     reference.*

l.2  Opinion and consent of Bingham McCutchen LLP. Filed on May 21, 2003 as
     Exhibit l.2 to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration
     Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by
     reference.*

l.3  Consent of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC.

l.4  Consent of Bingham McCutchen LLP.

m.   None.

n.   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.

o.   None.


p.   Subscription Agreement of Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. dated
     June 3, 2003.



q.   None.


r.1  Code of Ethics of Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. Filed on May 21, 2003
     as Exhibit r.1 to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's
     Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated
     herein by reference.*

r.2  Code of Ethics of Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. Filed on May 21, 2003 as
     Exhibit r.2 to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration
     Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated herein by
     reference.*

r.3  Code of Ethics of Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. Filed on May 21, 2003
     as Exhibit r.3 to Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's
     Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-104599) and incorporated
     herein by reference.*


s.   Powers of Attorney.

-------------------

*    Previously filed.



Item 25: Marketing Arrangements


Sections 2, 3 and 5(n) of the Form of Underwriting Agreement filed as Exhibit
h.1 to this Registration Statement.


See the Introductory Paragraph and Sections 2 and 3(d) of the Form of Salomon
Smith Barney Inc. Master Selected Dealer Agreement filed as Exhibit h.2 to this
Registration Statement and the Introductory Paragraph and Sections 2 and 3 of
the Form of Nuveen Master Selected Dealer Agreement filed as Exhibit h.3 to this
Registration Statement.


See the Introductory Paragraph and Sections 1.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4-3.8, 4.1, 4.2,
5.1-5.4, 6.1, 10.9 and 10.10 of the Form of Salomon Smith Barney Inc. Master
Agreement Among Underwriters filed as Exhibit h.4 to this Registration
Statement.


See Paragraph e of the Form of Dealer Letter Agreement between Nuveen and the
Underwriters filed as Exhibit h.5 to this Registration Statement.

Item 26: Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution



                                                                  

     Securities and Exchange Commission fees                          $  169,890
     National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. fees                30,500
     Printing and engraving expenses                                     645,000
     Legal and Accounting Fees                                           150,000
     Exchange listing fees                                               101,000
     Blue Sky filing fees and expenses                                     5,000
     Miscellaneous expenses                                                8,610
                                                                      ----------
          Total                                                       $1,110,000
                                                                      ==========




                                      C-2



------------


* Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp., Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. and
Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. have contractually agreed to reimburse the
Fund for fees and expenses in the amount of .32% of average daily Managed Assets
of the Fund for the first five full years of the Fund's operations, .24% of
average daily Managed Assets in year six, .16% in year seven and .08% in year
eight. Without the reimbursement, "Total Annual Expenses" would be estimated to
be 1.65% of average daily net assets attributable to Common Shares. Nuveen has
agreed to pay (i) all organizational expenses and (ii) offering costs (other
than sales load) that exceed $0.03 per Common Share (.20% of offering price).



Item 27: Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant

     Not applicable.

Item 28: Number of Holders of Securities



     At June 24, 2003







                                                            Number of
                  Title of Class                         Record Holders
                  --------------                         --------------
                                                      
       Common Shares, $0.01 par value                          1



Item 29: Indemnification

     Section 4 of Article XII of the Registrant's Declaration of Trust provides
as follows:

     Subject to the exceptions and limitations contained in this Section 4,
every person who is, or has been, a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the
Trust, including persons who serve at the request of the Trust as directors,
trustees, officers, employees or agents of another organization in which the
Trust has an interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise (hereinafter
referred to as a "Covered Person"), shall be indemnified by the Trust to the
fullest extent permitted by law against liability and against all expenses
reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any claim, action, suit or
proceeding in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his
being or having been such a Trustee, director, officer, employee or agent and
against amounts paid or incurred by him in settlement thereof.

     No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Covered Person:

(a)  against any liability to the Trust or its Shareholders by reason of a final
     adjudication by the court or other body before which the proceeding was
     brought that he engaged in willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence
     or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office;

(b)  with respect to any matter as to which he shall have been finally
     adjudicated not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that
     his action was in the best interests of the Trust; or

                                      C-3



(c)  in the event of a settlement or other disposition not involving a final
     adjudication (as provided in paragraph (a) or (b)) and resulting in a
     payment by a Covered Person, unless there has been either a determination
     that such Covered Person did not engage in willful misfeasance, bad faith,
     gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the
     conduct of his office by the court or other body approving the settlement
     or other disposition or a reasonable determination, based on a review of
     readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry), that he
     did not engage in such conduct:

          (i)  by a vote of a majority of the Disinterested Trustees acting on
          the matter (provided that a majority of the Disinterested Trustees
          then in office act on the matter); or

          (ii)  by written opinion of independent legal counsel.

     The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by
policies maintained by the Trust, shall be severable, shall not affect any other
rights to which any Covered Person may now or hereafter be entitled, shall
continue as to a person who has ceased to be such a Covered Person and shall
inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a
person.  Nothing contained herein shall affect any rights to indemnification to
which Trust personnel other than Covered Persons may be entitled by contract or
otherwise under law.

     Expenses of preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action,
suit or proceeding subject to a claim for indemnification under this Section 4
shall be advanced by the Trust prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt
of an undertaking by or on behalf of the recipient to repay such amount if it is
ultimately determined that he is not entitled to indemnification under this
Section 4, provided that either:

     (a)  such undertaking is secured by a surety bond or some other appropriate
     security or the Trust shall be insured against losses arising out of any
     such advances; or

     (b)  a majority of the Disinterested Trustees acting on the matter
     (provided that a majority of the Disinterested Trustees then in office act
     on the matter) or independent legal counsel in a written opinion shall
     determine, based upon a review of the readily available facts (as opposed
     to a full trial-type inquiry), that there is reason to believe that the
     recipient ultimately will be found entitled to indemnification.

     As used in this Section 4, a "Disinterested Trustee" is one (x) who is not
an Interested Person of the Trust (including anyone, as such Disinterested
Trustee, who has been exempted from being an Interested Person by any rule,
regulation or order of the Commission), and (y) against whom none of such
actions, suits or other proceedings or another action, suit or other proceeding
on the same or similar grounds is then or has been pending.

                                      C-4



     As used in this Section 4, the words "claim," "action," "suit" or
"proceeding" shall apply to all claims, actions, suits, proceedings (civil,
criminal, administrative or other, including appeals), actual or threatened; and
the words "liability" and "expenses" shall include without limitation,
attorneys' fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties
and other liabilities.


     The trustees and officers of the Registrant are covered by Investment Trust
Directors and Officers and Errors and Omission policies in the aggregate amount
of $50,000,000 against liability and expenses of claims of wrongful acts arising
out of their position with the Registrant, except for matters which involve
willful acts, bad faith, gross negligence and willful disregard of duty (i.e.,
where the insured did not act in good faith for a purpose he or she reasonably
believed to be in the best interest of Registrant or where he or she had
reasonable cause to believe this conduct was unlawful). The policy has a
$500,000 deductible, which does not apply to individual trustees or officers.

     Section 8 of the Form of Underwriting Agreement filed as Exhibit h.1 to
this Registration Statement provides for each of the parties thereto, including
the Registrant and the Underwriters, to indemnify the others, their trustees,
directors, certain of their officers, trustees, directors and persons who
control them against certain liabilities in connection with the offering
described herein, including liabilities under the federal securities laws.


     Insofar as indemnification for liability 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 Securities
Act of 1933 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 Securities
Act of 1933 and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

Item 30: Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser



     Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. ("NIAC") serves as investment adviser
to the following open-end and closed-end management type investment companies:
Nuveen Investment Trust, Nuveen Investment Trust II, Nuveen Investment Trust
III, Nuveen Senior Income Fund, Nuveen Select Tax-Free Income Portfolio, Nuveen
Select Tax-Free Income Portfolio 2, Nuveen California Select Tax-Free Income,
Nuveen New York Select Tax-Free Income Portfolio, Nuveen Real Estate Income
Fund, Nuveen Select Tax-Free Income Portfolio 3, Nuveen Quality Preferred Income
Fund, Nuveen Quality Preferred Income Fund 2, Nuveen Quality Preferred Income
Fund 3 and Nuveen Preferred and Convertible Income Fund.



                                      C-5




     NIAC has no other clients or business at the present time. For a
description of other business, profession, vocation or employment of a
substantial nature in which any director or officer of the investment adviser
who serve as officers or Trustees of the Registrant has engaged during the last
two years for his or her account or in the capacity of director, officer,
employee, partner or trustee, see the descriptions under "Management of the
Fund" in Part B of this Registration Statement. Such information for the
remaining senior officers of NIAC appears below:




                                                  Other Business Profession, Vocation or
Name and Position with NIAC                          Employment During Past Two Years
---------------------------                       --------------------------------------
                                             
John P. Amboian, President....................  President, formerly Executive Vice President
                                                of  Nuveen Investments, Inc., Nuveen Investments, LLC,
                                                Nuveen Advisory Corp., Nuveen Asset Management, Inc.
                                                and Nuveen Senior Loan Asset Management, Inc. and
                                                Executive Vice President and Director of Rittenhouse
                                                Asset Management, Inc.

Alan G. Berkshire, Senior Vice President and
Secretary.....................................  Senior Vice President and General Counsel (since
                                                1997) and Secretary (since 1998) of Nuveen Investments, Inc.,
                                                Nuveen Investments, LLC, and Nuveen Asset Management, Inc.;
                                                Senior Vice President (since 1997) and Secretary (since 1998)
                                                of Nuveen Advisory Corp., Senior Vice President, Secretary
                                                and General Counsel of Rittenhouse Asset Management, Inc.
                                                (since 2001).


Margaret E. Wilson, Senior Vice President,
Finance.......................................  Senior Vice President, Finance of Nuveen Investments, Inc.,
                                                Nuveen Investments, LLC, and Nuveen Advisory Corp.;
                                                formerly CFO of Sara Lee Corp., Bakery Division.

Gunther Stein, Vice President ................  Lead portfolio manager for high yield strategies at
                                                Symphony since 1999. Prior to joining Symphony, Mr. Stein
                                                was a High Yield Portfolio Manager at Wells Fargo.

Lenny Mason, Vice President ..................  High yield portfolio manager at Symphony. Prior to joining
                                                Symphony, Mr. Mason was a Managing Director in FleetBoston's
                                                Technology & Communications Group.




     The address of Symphony Asset Management, LLC is 555 California Street,
suite 2975, San Francisco, CA 94104.


     Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. ("Spectrum") serves as an investment
adviser to a non-U.S. fund and offers separate account management for certain
institutions and high net worth individuals. Spectrum also is a registered
broker-dealer. See "Management of the Fund" in Part B of the Registration
Statement.

     Set forth below is a list of each director and officer of Spectrum,
indicating each business profession, vocation or employment of a substantial
nature in which such person has been, at any time during the past two fiscal
years, engaged for his or her own account or in the capacity of director,
officer, partner or trustee.




                                                   Other Business Profession, Vocation or Employment
     Name and Position with Spectrum                          During Past Two Fiscal Years
     -------------------------------               -------------------------------------------------
                                         
Fernando Diaz, Vice President               --

Nancy K. Dray, Legal and Compliance         --
Officer

Ralph C. Eucher, Director                   President of Princor Financial Services Corporation since
                                            May 1999. Senior Vice President of Principal Life Insurance
                                            Company since August 2002.


Richard W. Hibbs, Director                  Executive Vice President Marketing for Principal Global
                                            Investors since September 1998. Vice President of Principal
                                            Life Insurance Company since September 1998.

Timothy Howald, Director                    Chief Financial Officer of Principal Global Investors since
                                            November 1998. Vice President of Principal Life Insurance
                                            Company since November 1998.

Patrick G. Hurley, Senior Vice President    --
and Chief Information Officer

L. Philip Jacoby, IV, Senior Vice           --
President and Portfolio Manager

Mark A. Lieb, Executive Director and        --
Chief Financial Officer

Jim McCaughan, Director                     Global Head of Asset Management for Principal Global Investors
                                            since April 2002. Executive Vice President of Principal Life
                                            Insurance Company since April 2002. Senior Vice President of
                                            Principal Financial Group, Inc. since April 2002. Previously
                                            Chief Executive Officer of Credit Suisse Asset Management
                                            Americas.

Jean M. Orlando, Vice President and         --
Controller

Gloria Reeg, Director                       Global Head of Fixed Income for Principal Global Investors
                                            since February 2002. Vice President of Principal Life Insurance
                                            Company since February 2002. Previously the Managing Director
                                            of Global Consulting for Frank Russell Company.

Bernard M. Sussman, Executive Director      --
and Chief Investment Officer

Albano Tunnera, Assistant Vice President    --
and Operations Manager

Joseph J. Urciuoli, Vice President and      --
Director of Research



     Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. ("Froley, Revy") serves as a subadviser
to one other fund and offers separate account management services to
institutions and high net worth individuals. See "Management of the Fund" in
Part B of the Registration Statement.

     Set forth below is a list of each director and officer of Froley, Revy,
indicating each business profession, vocation or employment of a substantial
nature in which such person has been, at any time during the past two fiscal
years, engaged for his or her own account or in the capacity of director,
officer, partner or trustee.





                                            Other Business Profession, Vocation
                                               or Employment During Past Two
     Name and Position with Froley, Revy                  Fiscal Years
     -----------------------------------    -----------------------------------
                                         
George A. Froley, III, Director, Chairman   --
  and Managing Director

Jim Herbert, Director                       President, Chief Executive Officer
                                            and Director of First Republic Bank

Katherine Auguste-DeWilde, Director         Chief Operating Officer, Executive
                                            Vice President and Director of First
                                            Republic Bank

Ed Dobranksi, Director                      Senior Vice President, General
                                            Counsel and Secretary of First
                                            Republic Bank

Melinda Gordon, Director and Managing       --
 Director

K. Andrea O'Connell, Director,              --
 President, Chief Executive Officer,
 Managing Director and Assistant
 Secretary

Michael Revy, Managing Director and         Director, Staub Holding AG,
 Senior Vice President                      Emil-Staub Strasse 2, CH-8708
                                            Mannedorf Switzerland. Private
                                            banker with Wechsler & Co., Inc.
                                            until 2002.

James Barry, Managing Director and          --
 Senior Vice President

Ravi Malik, Managing Director and           --
 Senior Vice President

Warren Chun, First Vice President           --

Mike Opre, Vice President                   --

Monica Erickson, Vice President             --

Steve Wachtel, Vice President               --

David Epstein, Vice President               --

Kim Nicholas, Vice President,               --
 Assistant Secretary and Chief
 Financial Officer/Controller

Melissa Shanahan, Vice President            --

John Padden, Vice President                 --

Ed Hackney, Vice President                  --

Lily Yu, First Vice President               --

Ted Heigel, Vice President                  --


Ann Houlihan, Secretary                     --



Item 31: Location of Accounts and Records

     Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp., 333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago,
Illinois 60606, maintains the Declaration of Trust, By-Laws, minutes of trustees
and shareholders meetings and contracts of the Registrant and all advisory
material of the investment adviser.


     Spectrum Asset Management, Inc., 4 High Ridge Park, Stamford, CT 06905,
maintains certain of its advisory material.

     Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc., 10900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los
Angeles, CA 90024, maintains certain of its advisory material.

     State Street Bank and Trust Company, 225 Franklin Street, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110, maintains all general and subsidiary ledgers, journals,
trial balances, records of all portfolio purchases and sales, and all other
required records not maintained by Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.



Item 32: Management Services

         Not applicable.

                                      C-6



Item 33: Undertakings

     1.   Registrant undertakes to suspend the offering of its shares until it
amends its prospectus if: (1) subsequent to the effective date of its
Registration Statement, the net asset value declines more than 10 percent from
its net asset value as of the effective date of the Registration Statement; or
(2) the net asset value increases to an amount greater than its net proceeds as
stated in the prospectus.

     2.   Not applicable.

     3.   Not applicable.

     4.   Not applicable.

     5.   The Registrant undertakes that:

          a.  For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act
     of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part
     of this Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in
     the form of prospectus filed by the Registrant under Rule 497(h) under the
     Securities Act of 1933 shall be deemed to be part of this Registration
     Statement as of the time it was declared effective.

          b.  For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
     Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of
     prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
     the securities offered therein, and the offering of the securities at that
     time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

     6.   The Registrant undertakes to send by first class mail or other means
designed to ensure equally prompt delivery, within two business days of receipt
of a written or oral request, any Statement of Additional Information.

                                      C-7



                                   SIGNATURES



     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in this City of Chicago, and State of Illinois, on the 24th day of
June 2003.




                                 NUVEEN PREFERRED AND CONVERTIBLE INCOME FUND 2

                                 /s/ Jessica R. Droeger
                                 ________________________________________
                                 Jessica R. Droeger, Vice President and
                                 Secretary

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the date indicated.





        Signature                     Title                           Date
        ---------                     -----                           ----
                                                       
/s/ Stephen D. Foy           Vice President and Controller         June 24, 2003
----------------------       (Principal Financial and
    Stephen D. Foy           Accounting Officer)


/s/ Gifford R. Zimmerman     Chief Administrative Officer          June 24, 2003
------------------------     (Principal Executive Officer)
    Gifford R. Zimmerman


Timothy R. Schwertfeger*     Chairman of the Board and       By: /s/ Jessica R. Droeger
                             Trustee                             ------------------------
                                                                     Jessica R. Droeger
William E. Bennett*          Trustee                                 Attorney-In-Fact
                                                                     June 24, 2003
Robert P. Bremner*           Trustee

Lawrence H. Brown*           Trustee

Jack B. Evans*               Trustee

Anne E. Impellizzeri*        Trustee

William L. Kissick*          Trustee

Thomas E. Leafstrand*        Trustee

Peter R. Sawers*             Trustee

William J. Schneider*        Trustee

Judith M. Stockdale*         Trustee

Sheila W. Wellington*        Trustee


     *Original powers of attorney authorizing Jessica R. Droeger and Gifford R.
Zimmerman, among others, to execute this Registration Statement, and Amendments
thereto, for each of the trustees of the Registrant on whose behalf this
Registration Statement is filed, have been executed and filed as exhibits.




                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS


a.   Declaration of Trust dated March 17, 2003.*
b.   By-laws of Registrant.*

c.   None.

d.   Form of Share Certificate.*
e.   Terms and Conditions of the Dividend Reinvestment Plan.*

f.   None.
g.1  Investment Management Agreement between Registrant and Nuveen Institutional
     Advisory Corp. dated May 15, 2003.*
g.2  Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between Nuveen Institutional Advisory
     Corp. and Spectrum Asset Management, Inc. dated May 15, 2003.
g.3  Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between Nuveen Institutional Advisory
     Corp. and Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc. dated May 15, 2003.
h.1  Form of Underwriting Agreement.


h.2  Form of Salomon Smith Barney Inc. Master Selected Dealer
     Agreement.

h.3  Form of Nuveen Master Selected Dealer Agreement.
h.4  Form of Salomon Smith Barney Inc. Master Agreement Among Underwriters.
h.5  Form of Dealer Letter Agreement.


i.   Nuveen Open-End and Closed-End Funds Deferred Compensation Plan for
     Independent Directors and Trustees.*
j.   Master Custodian Agreement between Registrant and State Street Bank and
     Trust Company dated August 19, 2002.
k.1  Shareholder Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and
     State Street Bank and Trust Company dated October 7, 2002.
k.2  Expense Reimbursement Agreement between Registrant and Nuveen Institutional
     Advisory Corp. dated May 15, 2003.*


l.1  Opinion and consent of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC.*
l.2  Opinion and consent of Bingham McCutchen LLP.*


l.3  Consent of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC.
l.4  Consent of Bingham McCutchen LLP.

m.   None.

n.   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.

o.   None.

p.   Subscription Agreement of Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp. dated
     June 3, 2003.

q.   None.

r.1  Code of Ethics of Nuveen Institutional Advisory Corp.*
r.2  Code of Ethics of Spectrum Asset Management, Inc.*
r.3  Code of Ethics of Froley, Revy Investment Co., Inc.*

s.   Powers of Attorney.
------------------

*    Previously filed.