Vector Group Ltd.
Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(B)(3)
Registration No. 333-129146
Increased Offer by VGR Holding Inc.
to Exchange
0.54 of a Share of Common Stock
of
Vector Group Ltd.
for
Each Outstanding Common Share
of
New Valley Corporation
THIS OFFER, AND YOUR RIGHT TO WITHDRAW THE COMMON SHARES OF
NEW VALLEY CORPORATION YOU TENDER INTO THIS OFFER, WILL EXPIRE
AT 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON FRIDAY,
DECEMBER 9, 2005, UNLESS WE EXTEND THIS OFFER.
We are offering to exchange 0.54 of a share of Vector Group
Ltd., or Vector, common stock for each outstanding common share
of New Valley Corporation, or New Valley, on the terms and
conditions contained in this Prospectus and in the related
Letter of Transmittal.
This prospectus amends and supersedes information included in
the Prospectus originally filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on October 20, 2005, as supplemented.
Stockholders who wish to tender should follow the instructions
included in this Prospectus and the accompanying Letter of
Transmittal.
VGR Holding Inc., or VGR Holding, is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Vector, and we currently own approximately 57.7% of the
outstanding common shares of New Valley. On November 16,
2005, we entered into agreements with several large stockholders
of New Valley, who in the aggregate own approximately 28.2% of
the outstanding New Valley common shares, pursuant to which
those stockholders agreed to tender their New Valley common
shares into our offer. These common shares, when aggregated with
the approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley currently owned by Vector, represent approximately 85.9%
of New Valleys outstanding common shares that are
committed to the offer. This offer is conditioned on, among
other things, the tender of a sufficient number of the
outstanding common shares of New Valley such that, after giving
effect to the offer, we own at least 90% of the outstanding
common shares of New Valley. If this minimum tender condition is
satisfied, more than a majority of the minority stockholders of
New Valley (i.e., stockholders unaffiliated with Vector
and its subsidiaries and stockholders who are not directors or
officers of New Valley) will have also validly tendered and not
properly withdrawn their common shares of New Valley in our
offer. Our obligation to exchange shares of Vector common stock
for common shares of New Valley is also subject to other
conditions described in this Prospectus under The
Offer Conditions of the Offer beginning on
page 64. We do not intend to have a subsequent offering
period.
On November 22, 2005, the special committee of New
Valleys board of directors issued a press release in which
the special committee stated that it had determined on behalf of
the New Valley board of directors that our revised offer at an
exchange ratio of 0.54 was fair to the holders of common shares
of New Valley, other than Vector and its affiliates, and will
recommend that holders of common shares of New Valley tender
their common shares pursuant to our revised offer.
If we successfully complete this offer, we will own more than
90% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley, and we would
then effect a short form merger of one of our
wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley. Under Delaware law,
this short form merger would be effected without the approval of
New Valleys board of directors or the remaining holders of
New Valleys common shares. We will effect the subsequent
merger as soon as practicable after we complete this offer,
unless we are prevented from doing so by a court or other legal
requirement. Each common share of New Valley that we do not own
or acquire in this offer would be converted in the subsequent
merger into the right to receive 0.54 of a share of Vector
common stock, unless the holder of the common shares of New
Valley properly perfects appraisal rights under Delaware law.
After we complete the subsequent merger, New Valley will be our
wholly-owned subsidiary.
See Risk Factors beginning on page 10 for a
discussion of issues that you should consider in determining
whether to tender your common shares into this offer.
Vectors common stock is listed on the New York Stock
Exchange and trades under the symbol VGR. New
Valleys common shares are listed on The Nasdaq Stock
Market and trade under the symbol NVAL.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE
SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THE VECTOR
COMMON STOCK TO BE ISSUED IN THIS OFFER AND THE SUBSEQUENT
MERGER OR DETERMINED IF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS
PROSPECTUS IS ACCURATE OR ADEQUATE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
The Dealer Manager for the Offer is:
Georgeson Shareholder Securities Corporation
The date of this prospectus is November 23, 2005.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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ANNEXES:
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ii
As permitted under the rules of the Securities and Exchange
Commission, or SEC, this Prospectus incorporates important
business and financial information about Vector and New Valley
that is contained in documents filed with the SEC but that is
not included in or delivered with this Prospectus. You may
obtain copies of these documents, without charge, from the
website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov, as well as other
sources. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 79.
You may also obtain copies of these documents, without charge,
upon written or oral request to our Information Agent, Georgeson
Shareholder Communications Inc., at (877) 388-2794 (toll
free), or from our Dealer Manager for this offer, Georgeson
Shareholder Securities Corporation, collect at
(212) 440-9800. To obtain timely delivery of copies of
these documents, you should request them no later than five
business days prior to the expiration of this offer. Unless this
offer is extended, the latest you should request copies of these
documents is Friday, December 2, 2005.
Except as otherwise specifically noted, we,
our, us and similar words in this
Prospectus refer to VGR Holding Inc., or VGR
Holding, and/or Vector Group Ltd., or Vector.
In addition, we refer to New Valley Corporation as New
Valley.
In Questions and Answers About the Offer below and
in the Summary beginning on page 1, we
highlight selected information from this Prospectus but we have
not included all of the information that may be important to
you. To better understand the offer and the subsequent merger
and for a more complete description of their legal terms, you
should read carefully this entire Prospectus, including the
Annexes, as well as the documents we have incorporated by
reference into this Prospectus. See Where You Can Find
More Information beginning on page 79.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE OFFER
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Q. |
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Why Are We Making The Offer? |
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We currently own 12,849,118 outstanding common shares of New
Valley, representing approximately 57.7% of all of the
outstanding common shares of New Valley. We are making the offer
for the purpose of acquiring all of the remaining outstanding
common shares of New Valley, in order to combine New Valley with
Vector. |
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What Will I Receive In Exchange For The Common Shares Of New
Valley That I Tender Into The Offer? |
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If we successfully complete the offer, you will receive 0.54 of
a share of Vector common stock in exchange for each common share
of New Valley that you validly tender into the offer. We will
not issue fractional shares of Vector common stock. Instead, any
New Valley stockholder entitled to receive a fractional share of
Vector common stock will receive cash in an amount equal to the
fraction, multiplied by the closing price of a share of Vector
common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on the last trading
day before the time that the offer expires. See The
Offer Cash Instead of Fractional Shares of Vector
Common Stock on page 55. |
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How Have You Revised The Offer? |
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A. |
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On October 20, 2005, we commenced the offer at an exchange
ratio of 0.461 shares of Vector common stock for each common
share of New Valley. On November 16, 2005, we announced an
increase in the exchange ratio to 0.54 shares of Vector common
stock for each common share of New Valley. |
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Have Any New Valley Stockholders Agreed to Tender Into The
Offer? |
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Yes. On November 16, 2005, we entered into agreements with
several large stockholders of New Valley, who in the aggregate
own approximately 28.2% of the outstanding New Valley common
shares. Pursuant to these agreements, these stockholders agreed
to tender their common shares of New Valley into our offer for
no additional consideration in exchange for our agreement to
increase the exchange ratio to 0.54 for all stockholders of New
Valley. These common shares, when aggregated with the
approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley currently owned by Vector, |
iii
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represent approximately 85.9% of New Valleys outstanding
common shares that are committed to the offer. |
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What Are The Potential Benefits Of This Offer To New Valley
Stockholders? |
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We believe that this offer should be attractive to New Valley
stockholders for the reasons described elsewhere in this
Prospectus as well as for the following reasons: |
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based on the closing price of Vector common stock on
November 16, 2005, the day of our announcement of this
revised offer, the value of the consideration we are offering
for each New Valley common share was $10.82, representing a
premium of 45% over $7.45, the last closing price for New Valley
common shares before we announced our original offer on
September 27, 2005; |
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if we successfully complete the offer, you will hold
shares in a larger combined company which we believe will have a
more liquid market for its shares than New Valley on a
stand-alone basis; |
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as a result of your exchange of common shares of New
Valley for shares of Vector common stock, you will become
entitled to receive quarterly cash dividends from Vector, which
we expect to continue to pay at our current quarterly rate of
$0.40 per share. See Comparative Per Share Market
Price and Dividend Information Vector
Vector Dividend Policy on page 51. New Valley does not
currently pay a regular cash dividend with respect to its common
shares; and |
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you will have the opportunity to continue to
participate in New Valleys growth through your ownership
of shares of Vector common stock. |
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What Are Some Of The Other Factors I Should Consider In
Deciding Whether To Tender My Common Shares Of New Valley? |
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In addition to the factors described elsewhere in this
Prospectus, you should consider the following: |
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the exchange ratio reflects a value of approximately
$10.82 per common share of New Valley, based on the closing
price of Vector common stock on November 16, 2005, the day
of our announcement of the revised 0.54 exchange ratio for our
offer. This value is above the closing price of New Valley
common shares on September 27, 2005, $7.45, and above the
highest closing price at which common shares of New Valley had
closed in the one year period before the announcement of our
original offer, $7.63, which was reached on August 25,
2005. However, this value is below the closing price of New
Valley common shares of $10.95 on November 21, 2005, the highest
price at which common shares of New Valley have closed following
the announcement of our offer; and |
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as a stockholder of Vector, your interest in the
performance and prospects of New Valley will be only indirect
and in proportion to your share ownership in Vector. You
therefore may not realize the same financial benefits of any
future appreciation in the value of New Valley that you may
realize if the offer and subsequent merger were not completed
and you were to remain a New Valley stockholder. |
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We describe various factors New Valley stockholders should
consider in deciding whether to tender their common shares under
Risk Factors beginning on page 10 and
Additional Factors for Consideration by New Valley
Stockholders beginning on page 41. |
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If I Decide Not To Tender, How Will This Affect The Offer And
My Common Shares Of New Valley? |
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We will not acquire any common shares of New Valley in the offer
unless New Valley stockholders (other than Vector and its
subsidiaries) have tendered into the offer, and not withdrawn,
as of the expiration of the offer, a sufficient number of common
shares of New Valley such that we would hold following the offer
at least 90% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley.
Your failure to tender your common shares of New Valley will
reduce the likelihood that we will receive tenders of a
sufficient number of common shares of New Valley to be able to
complete the offer. See The Offer Conditions
of the Offer beginning on page 64. |
iv
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If you do not tender your common shares of New Valley and we
nonetheless successfully complete the offer, as permitted under
Delaware law, we would then effect a short form
merger of one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley
without the approval of New Valleys board of directors or
the remaining holders of New Valleys common shares. We
will effect this subsequent merger as soon as practicable after
we complete the offer unless we are prevented from doing so by a
court or other legal requirement. Each common share of New
Valley that we do not own or acquire in the offer would be
converted in the subsequent merger into the right to receive
0.54 of a share of Vector common stock, and cash instead of
fractional shares, unless you properly perfect your appraisal
rights under Delaware law. See The Offer
Purpose of the Offer; The Subsequent Merger beginning on
page 60 and The Offer Appraisal
Rights beginning on page 62. |
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If we do not successfully complete the offer, your common shares
of New Valley will remain outstanding and we expect that New
Valley will remain a majority-owned subsidiary of Vector. See
Certain Effects of the Offer Conduct of New
Valley if the Offer is Not Completed beginning on
page 68. |
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How Long Will It Take To Complete The Offer And The
Subsequent Short Form Merger? |
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We hope to complete the offer promptly after its expiration at
5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, December 9,
2005. However, we may extend the offer if the conditions to the
offer have not been satisfied as of the offers scheduled
expiration or if we are required to extend the offer pursuant to
the tender offer rules of the SEC. We will complete the
subsequent merger as soon as practicable after the successful
completion of the offer, unless a court or other legal
requirement prevents us from doing so. |
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Has The New Valley Board Formed A Special Committee Of
Independent Directors To Evaluate Vectors Offer? |
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Yes. New Valley has formed a special committee consisting of
independent directors Arnold I. Burns (Chairman), Ronald J.
Kramer, Barry W. Ridings and Victor M. Rivas to evaluate our
offer. |
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Q. |
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Has New Valleys Board Of Directors Made A
Recommendation Concerning The Offer? |
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A. |
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On November 22, 2005, the special committee issued a press
release in which the special committee stated that it had
determined on behalf of the New Valley board of directors that
our revised offer at an exchange ratio of 0.54 was fair to the
holders of common shares of New Valley, other than Vector and
its affiliate, and will recommend that holders of common shares
of New Valley tender their common shares pursuant to our revised
offer. The press release also stated that the special committee
will provide additional information relating to its
recommendation pursuant to an amended
Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9
promptly after the filing of this Prospectus with the SEC. In
evaluating this offer, you should be aware that four of eight
members of the New Valley board are Vector directors and/or
executive officers. For additional information on interests that
New Valleys board members and executive officers may have
in the offer and subsequent merger, see Interests of
Certain Persons in the Offer and Subsequent Merger
beginning on page 72. |
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Q. |
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Has Vector Negotiated, Or Sought The Approval Of, The Terms
Of This Offer Or The Subsequent Merger With New Valley? |
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A. |
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We have not negotiated the terms of this offer or the subsequent
merger with New Valley, its board of directors or the special
committee of its board. Moreover, we have not requested that New
Valley, its board of directors or any special committee approve
this offer. However, after we commenced our initial offer at an
exchange ratio of 0.461 on October 20, 2005, our
representatives and representatives of the special
committees financial and legal advisors scheduled a series
of due diligence meetings. In addition, representatives of our
respective financial advisors held several discussions to
exchange perspectives regarding the offer and subsequent merger
and on November 21, 2005 we provided to the special
committee a substantially complete copy of this Prospectus. |
v
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Q. |
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What Percentage Of Vector Common Stock Will Current New
Valley Stockholders Receive After The Successful Completion Of
The Offer And Subsequent Merger? |
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A. |
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We anticipate that the completion of the offer and subsequent
merger will result in the exchange of the outstanding common
shares of New Valley that we do not currently own into
approximately 10.2% of the shares of Vectors common stock
outstanding at the conclusion of the transactions, without
regard to outstanding stock options or outstanding series of
convertible notes of Vector, and 7.4% on a fully diluted basis.
In general, this assumes that: |
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up to approximately 5,082,000 shares of Vector
common stock would be issued in the offer and the subsequent
merger and, if all New Valley stock options vest and are
exercised by the holders thereof, up to a maximum of
approximately 5,193,000 shares of Vector common stock would
be issued; |
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44,733,460 shares of Vector common stock are
outstanding before giving effect to the completion of the offer
and the subsequent merger; and |
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no New Valley stockholders exercise appraisal rights. |
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The holders of Vector common stock are entitled to one vote for
each share they hold. The former stockholders of New Valley, who
would receive Vector common stock, will, therefore, receive
approximately 10.2% of the outstanding voting power of Vector
immediately following the offer and the subsequent merger,
without regard to outstanding stock options or outstanding
series of convertible notes of Vector, and 7.4% of the voting
power on a fully diluted basis. |
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Q. |
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What Are The Most Significant Conditions To The Offer? |
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A. |
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The offer is conditioned upon, among other things, satisfaction
of the minimum tender condition. In particular, there must be
validly tendered, and not properly withdrawn prior to the
expiration of the offer, at least 7,185,429 common shares
(based on the number of outstanding common shares of New Valley
as of the date of this Prospectus) such that, after giving
effect to the offer, we own at least 90% of the total number of
outstanding common shares of New Valley (or 22,260,607, as of
November 22, 2005). If this minimum tender condition is
satisfied, more than a majority of the minority stockholders of
New Valley (i.e., stockholders unaffiliated with Vector
and its subsidiaries and stockholders who are not directors or
officers of New Valley) will have also validly tendered and not
properly withdrawn their common shares of New Valley in our
offer. We will not waive this minimum tender condition. In
addition, the following conditions, among others, must also be
met: |
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the Registration Statement, of which this Prospectus
is a part, having been declared effective by the SEC; |
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the issuance of certain shares of Vector common
stock to be issued in the offer and the subsequent merger having
been approved by Vector stockholders entitled to vote thereon; |
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the shares of Vector common stock to be issued in
the offer and the subsequent merger having been approved for
listing on the New York Stock Exchange; |
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the receipt of an opinion of counsel regarding the
federal income tax consequences of the offer and the subsequent
merger; |
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the absence of any event that would be expected to
have a material adverse effect on New Valley such that,
regardless of the circumstances, in our good faith judgment, it
would be inadvisable to proceed with the offer; |
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the absence of material adverse developments in the
New Valley stockholder litigations against us which are pending,
including any appeals; and |
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the absence of legal impediments to the offer or the
subsequent merger. |
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These conditions and other conditions to the offer are discussed
in this Prospectus under The Offer Conditions
of the Offer beginning on page 64. |
vi
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Q. |
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Will I Be Taxed On The Vector Common Stock That I Receive? |
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A. |
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The offer and the subsequent merger are intended to qualify as a
reorganization for United States federal income tax purposes
under which you would generally not recognize gain or loss upon
the receipt of shares of Vector common stock in exchange for
your common shares of New Valley, other than any gain or loss
recognized on the receipt of cash instead of fractional shares.
The offer is conditioned on the receipt of an opinion from
Vectors legal counsel to the effect that the Vector common
stock received in the offer and subsequent merger will be
treated as received in a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended. See The Offer Material
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences beginning on
page 57. The tax consequences to you will depend on the
facts and circumstances of your own situation. Please consult
your tax advisor for a full understanding of the tax
consequences to you. |
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Q. |
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Do The Statements On The Cover Page Regarding This Prospectus
Being Subject To Change And The Registration Statement Filed
With The SEC Not Yet Being Effective Mean That The Offer Has Not
Commenced? |
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A. |
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No. As permitted under SEC rules, we have commenced the
offer without the Registration Statement, of which this
Prospectus is a part, having been declared effective by the SEC.
We cannot, however, complete the offer and accept for exchange
any common shares of New Valley tendered in the offer until the
Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC and the
other conditions to our offer have been satisfied or, where
permissible, waived. |
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Q. |
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Are Vectors Business, Prospects And Financial Condition
Relevant To My Decision To Tender My Common Shares In The
Offer? |
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A. |
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Yes. Common shares of New Valley accepted in the offer will be
exchanged for shares of Vector common stock and therefore you
should consider Vectors business, prospects and financial
condition before you decide whether to tender your common shares
in the offer. In considering our business, prospects and
financial condition, you should review the documents
incorporated by reference in this Prospectus because they
contain detailed business, financial and other information about
us. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 79. |
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Q. |
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If I Have Already Tendered My Common Shares In The Original
Offer Do I Need To Do Anything To Tender Into The Revised
Offer? |
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A. |
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No. New Valley common shares validly tendered in connection with
our offer commenced on October 20, 2005 and not properly
withdrawn will automatically be considered tendered into this
revised offer. |
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Q. |
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Whom Can I Call With Questions About The Offer? |
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A. |
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You can contact our Information Agent or Dealer Manager for the
offer: |
The Information Agent for the Offer is:
Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc.
17 State Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10004
(877) 388-2794 (Toll Free)
Banks and Brokerage Firms please call:
(212) 440-9800
The Dealer Manager for the Offer is:
Georgeson Shareholder Securities Corporation
17 State Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10004
(212) 440-9800
vii
SUMMARY
Introduction
We are proposing to acquire all of the outstanding common shares
of New Valley that we do not already own. We currently own
12,849,118 common shares of New Valley, representing
approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley.
We are offering to exchange 0.54 of a share of Vector common
stock for each outstanding common share of New Valley, upon the
terms and conditions set forth in this Prospectus and the
related Letter of Transmittal. We will not acquire any common
shares of New Valley in the offer unless New Valley stockholders
(other than Vector and its subsidiaries) have validly tendered
and not properly withdrawn prior to the expiration of the offer
a number of common shares of New Valley such that, after giving
effect to the offer, we own at least 90% of the total number of
outstanding common shares of New Valley. If this minimum tender
condition is satisfied, more than a majority of the minority
stockholders of New Valley (i.e., stockholders
unaffiliated with Vector and its subsidiaries and stockholders
who are not directors or officers of New Valley) will have also
validly tendered and not properly withdrawn their common shares
of New Valley in our offer. We will not waive this minimum
tender condition. As of November 22, 2005, there were
22,260,607 common shares of New Valley outstanding. Accordingly,
for us to acquire any common shares of New Valley, stockholders
of New Valley must, based on this information as to New
Valleys outstanding common shares, have tendered into the
offer, and not withdrawn, as of the expiration of the offer, at
least 7,185,429 common shares of New Valley (based on the number
of outstanding common shares of New Valley as of the date of
this Prospectus). These share numbers would change as a result
of changes in New Valleys share capitalization, such as
through the exercise of outstanding stock options. On
November 16, 2005, we entered into agreements with several
large stockholders of New Valley, who in the aggregate own
approximately 28.2% of the outstanding New Valley common shares,
pursuant to which those stockholders agreed to tender their New
Valley common shares into our offer. These common shares, when
aggregated with the approximately 57.7% of the outstanding
common shares of New Valley currently owned by Vector, represent
approximately 85.9% of New Valleys outstanding common
shares that are committed to the offer. There are also other
conditions to the offer that are described under The
Offer Conditions of the Offer beginning on
page 64.
If we successfully complete the offer, we would then own at
least 90% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley and be
permitted under Delaware law to effect a short form
merger of one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley
without the approval of New Valleys board or remaining
stockholders. We will effect a short form merger of
one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley as soon as
practicable after we complete the offer unless we are prevented
from doing so by a court or other legal requirement. Each
outstanding common share of New Valley we do not own or acquire
in the offer would be converted in the subsequent merger into
the right to receive 0.54 of a share of Vector common stock and
cash instead of fractional shares, the same consideration per
common share of New Valley you would have received if you had
tendered your common shares into the offer, unless you properly
perfect your appraisal rights under Delaware law. See The
Offer Purpose of the Offer; The Subsequent
Merger beginning on page 60 and The
Offer Appraisal Rights beginning on
page 62. After completion of the subsequent merger, New
Valley will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vector.
Information About Vector and New Valley
VECTOR GROUP LTD.
100 S.E. Second Street
Miami, Florida 33131
(305) 579-8000
Vector, a Delaware corporation, is a holding company for a
number of businesses. We hold these businesses through our
wholly-owned subsidiary VGR Holding. In addition to our
ownership of a 57.7% interest in New Valley, we are engaged
principally in:
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the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in the United States
through our subsidiary Liggett Group Inc., and |
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the development and marketing of the low nicotine and
nicotine-free QUEST cigarette products and the development of
reduced risk cigarette products through our subsidiary Vector
Tobacco Inc. |
We are controlled by Bennett S. LeBow, our Chairman and the
Chairman of New Valley, who beneficially owns approximately
33.3% of our common stock.
NEW VALLEY CORPORATION
100 S.E. Second Street
Miami, Florida 33131
(305) 579-8000
New Valley, a Delaware corporation, is engaged in the real
estate business and is seeking to acquire additional real estate
properties and operating companies. New Valley owns a 50%
interest in Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC, which operates the
largest residential real estate brokerage company in the New
York City metropolitan area. New Valley also holds, through its
New Valley Realty Division, 50% interests in the Sheraton
Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and
the St. Regis Hotel in Washington, D.C. In February 2005,
New Valley completed the sale of its two commercial office
buildings in Princeton, N.J.
New Valley was originally organized under the laws of New York
in 1851 and operated for many years under the name Western
Union Corporation. In 1991, bankruptcy proceedings were
commenced against New Valley. In January 1995, New Valley
emerged from bankruptcy. As part of the plan of reorganization,
New Valley sold the Western Union money transfer and messaging
services businesses and all allowed claims in the bankruptcy
were paid in full.
The Offer
Exchange of Common Shares of New Valley
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the offer,
promptly after the expiration of the offer we will accept common
shares of New Valley which are validly tendered and not properly
withdrawn in exchange for newly issued shares of Vector common
stock. We are offering to exchange 0.54 of a share of Vector
common stock for each outstanding common share of New Valley not
already owned by us.
Timing of the Offer
We commenced the original offer on October 20, 2005, the
date of the distribution of the prospectus distributed with the
original offer. This revised offer is scheduled to expire at
5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, December 9,
2005, unless we extend the period of the offer. All references
to the expiration of the offer mean the time of expiration, as
extended.
2
Extension, Termination and Amendment
We expressly reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to
extend, on one or more occasions, the period of time during
which the offer remains open, and we can do so by giving oral or
written notice of extension to American Stock
Transfer & Trust Company, the Exchange Agent and
Depositary for the offer. If we decide to extend the offer, we
will make an announcement to that effect no later than
9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the next business day
after the previously scheduled expiration. We are not giving any
assurance that we will exercise our right to extend the offer.
During any extension, all common shares of New Valley previously
tendered and not withdrawn will remain deposited with the
Exchange Agent and Depositary, subject to your right to withdraw
your common shares of New Valley as described under
Withdrawal Rights below. We do not
intend to have a subsequent offering period.
We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to delay, on one
or more occasions, our acceptance for exchange of common shares
of New Valley pursuant to our offer. We also reserve the right
to terminate our offer and not accept for exchange any common
shares of New Valley, upon the failure of any of the conditions
of the offer to be satisfied or, where permissible, waived, or
otherwise to amend the offer in any respect (except as described
below), by giving oral or written notice of delay, termination
or amendment to the Exchange Agent and Depositary and by making
a public announcement.
We will follow any extension, delay, termination or amendment,
as promptly as practicable, with a public announcement. Subject
to applicable law, including Rules 14d-4(c) and 14d-6(d)
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the
Exchange Act, which require that any material change in the
information published, sent or given to the stockholders in
connection with the offer be promptly sent to stockholders in a
manner reasonably designed to inform stockholders of the change,
and without limiting the manner in which we may choose to make
any public announcement, we assume no obligation to publish,
advertise or otherwise communicate any public announcement other
than by making a release to the Dow Jones News Service.
Delivery of Vector Common Stock
We will accept for exchange common shares of New Valley validly
tendered and not properly withdrawn promptly after the
expiration of the offer and will exchange Vector common stock
and cash instead of fractional shares for the tendered common
shares of New Valley as soon as practicable afterwards. In all
cases, exchange of common shares of New Valley tendered and
accepted for exchange pursuant to the offer will be made only if
the Exchange Agent and Depositary timely receives
(1) certificates for those common shares of New Valley, or
a timely confirmation of a book-entry transfer of those common
shares of New Valley in the Exchange Agent and Depositarys
account at The Depository Trust Company, or DTC, and a properly
completed and duly executed Letter of Transmittal, or a manually
signed copy, and any other required documents; or (2) a
timely confirmation of a book-entry transfer of those common
shares of New Valley in the Exchange Agent and Depositarys
account at DTC, together with an agents
message as described below under
Procedure for Tendering Shares.
Withdrawal Rights
You may withdraw any common shares of New Valley you previously
tendered into the offer at any time before the expiration of the
offer. After the expiration of the offer, tenders are
irrevocable. However, if we have not accepted tendered shares
for exchange by Saturday, December 17, 2005, you may
withdraw tendered shares at any time thereafter prior to their
acceptance for exchange.
Cash Instead of Fractional Shares of Vector Common Stock
We will not issue any fraction of a share of Vector common stock
pursuant to the offer or the subsequent merger. Instead, each
tendering stockholder who would otherwise be entitled to a
fraction of a share of Vector common stock, after combining all
fractional shares to which the stockholder would otherwise be
entitled, will receive cash in an amount equal to the product
obtained by multiplying (1) the fraction of a share of
Vector common stock to which the holder would otherwise be
entitled by (2) the
3
closing price of Vector common stock as reported on the New York
Stock Exchange on the last trading day before the time that the
offer expires.
Procedure for Tendering Shares
For you to validly tender common shares of New Valley into our
offer, you must do one of the following:
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deliver certificates for your common shares, a properly
completed and duly executed Letter of Transmittal or a copy
thereof that has been manually signed, along with any other
required documents, to the Exchange Agent and Depositary at one
of its addresses set forth on the back cover of this Prospectus
prior to the expiration of the offer; |
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arrange for a book-entry transfer of your common shares to be
made to the Exchange Agent and Depositarys account at DTC
and receipt by the Exchange Agent and Depositary of a
confirmation of this transfer prior to the expiration of the
offer, and the delivery of a properly completed and duly
executed Letter of Transmittal or a copy thereof that has been
manually signed, and any other required documents to the
Exchange Agent and Depositary at one of its addresses set forth
on the back cover of this Prospectus prior to the expiration of
the offer; or |
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arrange for a book-entry transfer of your common shares to the
Exchange Agent and Depositarys account at DTC and receipt
by the Exchange Agent and Depositary of confirmation of this
transfer, including an agents message, prior
to the expiration of the offer. |
These deliveries and arrangements must be made before the
expiration of the offer. Common shares of New Valley validly
tendered and not properly withdrawn in connection with our offer
commenced on October 20, 2005 will automatically be
considered tendered into this revised offer. Tenders by
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery will not be accepted.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
The offer and the subsequent merger are intended to qualify as a
reorganization for United States federal income tax purposes
under which you would generally not recognize gain or loss upon
the receipt of shares of Vector common stock in exchange for
your common shares of New Valley, other than any gain or loss
recognized on the receipt of cash instead of fractional shares.
The offer is conditioned on the receipt of an opinion from
Vectors legal counsel to the effect that the Vector common
stock received in the offer and subsequent merger will be
treated as received in a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended. The tax consequences to you will depend on the facts
and circumstances of your own situation. Please consult your tax
adviser for a full understanding of the tax consequences to you.
Regulatory Approvals
We are not aware of any license or regulatory permit material to
the business of New Valley and its subsidiaries, on a
consolidated basis, that may be materially adversely affected by
our acquisition of New Valleys common shares, or any
filing or approval that would be required for our acquisition of
New Valleys common shares. We intend to make all required
filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the
Securities Act, and the Exchange Act. We are unaware of any
requirement for the filing of information with, or the obtaining
of the approval of, governmental authorities in any
non-U.S. jurisdiction that is applicable to the offer or
the subsequent merger.
Appraisal Rights
Under Delaware law, you will not have any appraisal rights in
connection with the offer. However, appraisal rights, if
properly perfected, are available in connection with the
subsequent merger.
4
Accounting Treatment
Our acquisition of the New Valley common shares will be
accounted for under the purchase method of accounting in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the
United States.
Comparison of Rights of Stockholders of New Valley and
Stockholders of Vector
If we successfully complete the offer, holders of New
Valleys common shares will become stockholders of Vector,
and their rights as stockholders will be governed by
Vectors amended and restated certificate of incorporation
and its by-laws. There are differences between the certificates
of incorporation and by-laws of New Valley and Vector. Since New
Valley and Vector are both Delaware corporations, the rights of
New Valley stockholders will continue to be governed by Delaware
law after the completion of the offer and the subsequent merger.
New Valley Shares Held by Vector Directors, Executive
Officers and Affiliates
VGR Holding owns approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common
shares of New Valley. The directors and executive officers of
Vector and VGR Holding, in the aggregate, own 910,112 of the
outstanding common shares of New Valley, representing
approximately 4.1% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley. For more details see Interests of Vector and the
Directors, Executive Officers and Affiliates of Vector, in
Common Shares of New Valley on Annex B of this
Prospectus.
Selected Historical Financial Data of Vector and New
Valley
We are providing the following selected financial information to
assist you in analyzing the financial aspects of the offer and
the subsequent merger. We derived the unaudited financial
information presented for Vector and for New Valley as of, and
for the nine-month periods ended, September 30, 2005
and 2004 from Vectors and New Valleys respective
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period
ended September 30, 2005. We derived the financial
information presented for Vector and for New Valley as of, and
for each of the five years for the period ended,
December 31, 2004, from Vectors and New Valleys
respective Annual Reports on Form 10-K for each of those
years. Per share information for Vector in this Prospectus gives
effect to the 5% stock dividend paid on September 29, 2005.
As a result of the sale of its office buildings in February
2005, New Valleys real estate leasing operations, which
were the primary source of New Valleys revenues for 2003,
2004 and the three months ended March 31, 2005, have been
treated as discontinued operations and are not reflected in the
table.
You should read the financial information with respect to Vector
and New Valley in conjunction with the historical consolidated
financial statements and related notes contained in the annual,
quarterly and other reports filed by Vector and New Valley with
the SEC, which we have incorporated by reference into this
Prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 79.
5
Vector Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data
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As of and for the | |
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Nine Months Ended | |
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September 30, | |
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Year Ended December 31, | |
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2005 | |
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2004 | |
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2004 | |
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2003 | |
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2002 | |
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2001 | |
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2000 | |
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(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |
Statement of Operations Data:
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Revenues(1)
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$ |
342,251 |
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$ |
370,869 |
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$ |
498,860 |
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$ |
529,385 |
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$ |
503,078 |
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$ |
447,382 |
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$ |
415,055 |
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Income (loss) from continuing
operations(2)
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27,232 |
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(4,588 |
) |
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4,039 |
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(16,132 |
) |
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(31,819 |
) |
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21,200 |
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165,933 |
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Income (loss) from discontinued operations
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3,034 |
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|
379 |
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2,689 |
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|
522 |
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25 |
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(537 |
) |
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8,285 |
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Net income (loss)
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30,266 |
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(4,209 |
) |
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6,728 |
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(15,610 |
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(31,794 |
) |
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20,663 |
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174,218 |
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Per basic common
share(3):
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Income (loss) from continuing operations
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$ |
0.62 |
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$ |
(0.11 |
) |
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$ |
0.09 |
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$ |
(0.39 |
) |
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$ |
(0.79 |
) |
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$ |
0.59 |
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$ |
5.53 |
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Income (loss) from discontinued operations
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$ |
0.07 |
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$ |
0.01 |
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$ |
0.06 |
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$ |
0.02 |
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$ |
(0.01 |
) |
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$ |
0.28 |
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Net income (loss) applicable to common shares
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$ |
0.69 |
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$ |
(0.10 |
) |
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$ |
0.15 |
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$ |
(0.37 |
) |
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$ |
(0.79 |
) |
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$ |
0.58 |
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$ |
5.81 |
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Per diluted common
share(3):
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Income (loss) from continuing operations
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$ |
0.59 |
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$ |
(0.11 |
) |
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$ |
0.09 |
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$ |
(0.39 |
) |
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$ |
(0.79 |
) |
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$ |
0.49 |
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$ |
4.70 |
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Income (loss) from discontinued operations
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$ |
0.07 |
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$ |
0.01 |
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$ |
0.06 |
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$ |
0.02 |
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$ |
(0.01 |
) |
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$ |
0.23 |
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Net income (loss) applicable to common shares
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$ |
0.66 |
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$ |
(0.10 |
) |
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$ |
0.15 |
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$ |
(0.37 |
) |
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$ |
(0.79 |
) |
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$ |
0.48 |
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$ |
4.93 |
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Cash distributions declared per common share
(3)
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$ |
1.14 |
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$ |
1.08 |
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$ |
1.47 |
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$ |
1.40 |
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$ |
1.33 |
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$ |
1.27 |
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$ |
0.99 |
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Balance Sheet Data:
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Current assets
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$ |
290,739 |
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$ |
237,489 |
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$ |
242,124 |
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$ |
314,741 |
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$ |
376,815 |
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$ |
515,727 |
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$ |
269,942 |
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Total assets
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536,407 |
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|
528,047 |
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535,895 |
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628,212 |
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707,270 |
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688,903 |
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425,848 |
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Current liabilities
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122,676 |
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127,716 |
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|
119,835 |
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|
173,086 |
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184,384 |
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141,629 |
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138,775 |
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Notes payable, embedded derivatives, long-term debt and other
obligations, less current portion
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277,966 |
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286,272 |
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280,289 |
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299,977 |
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307,028 |
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225,415 |
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39,890 |
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Noncurrent employee benefits, deferred income taxes, minority
interests and other long-term liabilities
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232,010 |
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207,780 |
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220,574 |
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201,624 |
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193,561 |
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208,501 |
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234,734 |
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Stockholders equity (deficit)
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(96,245 |
) |
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(93,721 |
) |
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(84,803 |
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|
(46,475 |
) |
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22,297 |
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113,358 |
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12,449 |
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(1) |
Revenues include excise taxes of $112,856, $132,729, $175,674,
$195,342, $192,664, $151,174 and $116,116, respectively. |
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(2) |
Includes a gain of $161,000 in 2000, net of taxes and minority
interests, from the sale of Vectors Russian tobacco
business, Liggett Ducat; restructuring charges of $3,500 at
Liggett in 2002; restructuring and impairment charges of $21,300
at Vector Tobacco in 2003; restructuring and impairment charges
of $11,100 at Liggett and $2,600 at Vector Tobacco and a $37,000
inventory charge at Vector Tobacco in 2004; restructuring and
impairment charges of $6,320 at Liggett and $1,224 at Vector
Tobacco and a $37,000 inventory charge at Vector Tobacco for the
nine months ended September 30, 2004; and a special federal
quota stock liquidation assessment under the federal tobacco
legislation of $5,219 ($5,150 at Liggett and $69 at Vector
Tobacco) for the nine months ended September 30, 2005. |
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(3) |
Per share computations include the impact of 5% stock dividends
on September 29, 2005, September 29, 2004,
September 29, 2003, September 27, 2002,
September 28, 2001 and September 28, 2000. |
6
New Valley Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data
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As of and For the Nine | |
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Months Ended | |
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September 30, | |
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Year Ended December 31, | |
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| |
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2005 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2001 | |
|
2000 | |
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| |
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| |
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(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |
Operating Results:
|
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Total revenues
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$ |
|
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|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
661 |
|
|
$ |
9,966 |
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$ |
3,199 |
|
Total costs and expenses
|
|
|
10,453 |
|
|
|
8,898 |
|
|
|
13,773 |
|
|
|
11,901 |
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|
|
14,391 |
|
|
|
22,930 |
|
|
|
18,612 |
|
Other results from continuing operations
|
|
|
18,793 |
|
|
|
16,102 |
|
|
|
19,227 |
|
|
|
3,873 |
|
|
|
(8,446 |
) |
|
|
(3,071 |
) |
|
|
51,138 |
|
|
|
|
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|
|
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|
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|
|
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|
|
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Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and
minority interests
|
|
|
8,340 |
|
|
|
7,204 |
|
|
|
5,454 |
|
|
|
(8,028 |
) |
|
|
(22,176 |
) |
|
|
(16,035 |
) |
|
|
35,725 |
|
Income tax provision (benefit)
|
|
|
2,992 |
|
|
|
(616 |
) |
|
|
(13,861 |
) |
|
|
(952 |
) |
|
|
(46 |
) |
|
|
260 |
|
|
|
|
|
Minority interests in income (loss) from continuing operations
of consolidated subsidiaries
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
(20 |
) |
|
|
(151 |
) |
|
|
(594 |
) |
|
|
(323 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations
|
|
|
5,348 |
|
|
|
7,821 |
|
|
|
19,310 |
|
|
|
(7,056 |
) |
|
|
(21,979 |
) |
|
|
(15,701 |
) |
|
|
36,048 |
|
Discontinued operations:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
231 |
|
|
|
1,012 |
|
|
|
1,220 |
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
(5,829 |
) |
|
|
5,002 |
|
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations
|
|
|
8,290 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,927 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,346 |
|
|
|
17,879 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
8,521 |
|
|
|
1,012 |
|
|
|
7,147 |
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
(1,483 |
) |
|
|
22,881 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) applicable to common shares
|
|
$ |
13,869 |
|
|
$ |
8,833 |
|
|
$ |
26,457 |
|
|
$ |
(5,662 |
) |
|
$ |
(21,912 |
) |
|
$ |
(17,184 |
) |
|
$ |
58,929 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per common and equivalent share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.35 |
|
|
$ |
0.87 |
|
|
$ |
(0.32 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.96 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.69 |
) |
|
$ |
1.57 |
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
0.39 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
0.33 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.06 |
) |
|
|
0.99 |
|
|
Net income (loss) per common share
|
|
|
0.63 |
|
|
|
0.40 |
|
|
|
1.20 |
|
|
|
(0.26 |
) |
|
|
(0.96 |
) |
|
|
(0.75 |
) |
|
|
2.56 |
|
Diluted:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.35 |
|
|
$ |
0.87 |
|
|
$ |
(0.32 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.96 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.69 |
) |
|
$ |
1.56 |
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
0.38 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
0.33 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.06 |
) |
|
|
0.99 |
|
|
Net income (loss) per common share
|
|
|
0.62 |
|
|
|
0.40 |
|
|
|
1.20 |
|
|
|
(0.26 |
) |
|
|
(0.96 |
) |
|
|
(0.75 |
) |
|
|
2.55 |
|
Cash dividends declared
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book value
|
|
$ |
6.23 |
|
|
$ |
4.94 |
|
|
$ |
5.69 |
|
|
$ |
4.69 |
|
|
$ |
4.59 |
|
|
$ |
5.63 |
|
|
$ |
6.54 |
|
|
Balance Sheet Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
145,674 |
|
|
$ |
166,857 |
|
|
$ |
175,178 |
|
|
$ |
161,896 |
|
|
$ |
163,548 |
|
|
$ |
162,698 |
|
|
$ |
263,130 |
|
Long-term notes payable
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38,730 |
|
|
|
38,569 |
|
|
|
39,266 |
|
|
|
39,856 |
|
|
|
11,142 |
|
|
|
11,900 |
|
Prepetition
claims(1)
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
600 |
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
600 |
|
|
|
674 |
|
|
|
2,700 |
|
|
|
10,229 |
|
Stockholders equity
|
|
|
138,579 |
|
|
|
109,153 |
|
|
|
125,636 |
|
|
|
103,748 |
|
|
|
103,057 |
|
|
|
128,480 |
|
|
|
149,685 |
|
Working
capital(2)
|
|
|
103,992 |
|
|
|
67,458 |
|
|
|
82,877 |
|
|
|
70,986 |
|
|
|
80,159 |
|
|
|
113,628 |
|
|
|
72,720 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents prepetition claims against New Valley in its
bankruptcy case. |
|
(2) |
Working capital represents current assets less current
liabilities on the New Valley consolidated balance sheets. |
7
Unaudited Comparative Per Share Data
In the following table we present historical per share data for
Vector and New Valley, combined pro forma per share data for
Vector and equivalent pro forma per share data for New Valley,
as of, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and
for the year ended, December 31, 2004. We present the pro
forma per share data for comparative purposes only. The data
does not purport to be indicative of (1) the results of
operations or financial position which would have been achieved
if the offer and the subsequent merger had been completed at the
beginning of the periods or as of the dates indicated, or
(2) the results of operations or financial position which
may be achieved in the future. The per share data reflects the
impact of Vectors 5% stock dividend paid on
September 29, 2005. The pro forma per share data does not
reflect any payment that may be required to be made in
connection with the exercise of appraisal rights by New Valley
stockholders under Delaware law in connection with the
subsequent merger.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
New Valley | |
|
|
Vector | |
|
Vector | |
|
New Valley | |
|
Equivalent | |
|
|
Historical | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Historical | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
Per Share | |
|
Per Share | |
|
Per Share | |
|
Per Share | |
|
|
Data | |
|
Data(1)(2)(3) | |
|
Data | |
|
Data(1) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005 | |
|
|
| |
Earnings from continuing operations per share of common stock:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
0.62 |
|
|
$ |
0.56 |
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.30 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
$ |
0.59 |
|
|
$ |
0.53 |
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.29 |
|
Cash dividends per share of common stock
|
|
$ |
1.14 |
|
|
$ |
1.14 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
0.62 |
|
Book value per share of common
stock(4)
|
|
$ |
(2.16 |
) |
|
$ |
0.69 |
|
|
$ |
6.23 |
|
|
$ |
0.37 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Year Ended December 31, 2004 | |
|
|
| |
Earnings from continuing operations per share of common stock:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.25 |
|
|
$ |
0.87 |
|
|
$ |
0.14 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.87 |
|
|
$ |
0.13 |
|
Cash dividends per share of common stock
|
|
$ |
1.47 |
|
|
$ |
1.47 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
0.79 |
|
|
|
(1) |
The Vector unaudited pro forma combined earnings from continuing
operations per share and book value per common share are based
on New Valley stockholders receiving 0.54 of a share of Vector
common stock for each common share of New Valley. The New Valley
equivalent unaudited pro forma per share data are calculated by
multiplying the unaudited pro forma combined per share data by
0.54. |
|
(2) |
Reflects the historical operations of Vector and New Valley
adjusted to reflect the impact of purchase accounting by Vector
and the issuance of Vector common stock. |
|
(3) |
Based on the price of Vector common stock as of
November 16, 2005 and the exchange ratio of 0.54 of a share
of Vector common stock for each outstanding common share of New
Valley, we have estimated a purchase price of approximately
$106.9 million for the common shares of New Valley not
owned by Vector. For purposes of the calculation of pro forma
earnings from continuing operations per share, we have performed
a preliminary allocation of this purchase price. Of the
$106.9 million total consideration, approximately
$37.8 million is estimated to be recorded as goodwill,
which will not be subject to amortization. |
|
(4) |
Historical book value per share of common stock at
September 30, 2005 is computed by dividing
stockholders equity (deficit) of $(96.2) million
and of $138.6 million for Vector and New Valley,
respectively, by the number of shares of common stock
outstanding as of September 30, 2005. Pro forma book value
per share is computed by dividing pro forma stockholders
equity by the pro forma number of shares of common stock
outstanding as of September 30, 2005. |
8
Comparative Per Share Market Data
In the following table we present:
|
|
|
|
|
the prices per share of Vectors common stock and New
Valleys common shares as of the close of trading on
November 16, 2005, the day of our announcement of the
revised 0.54 exchange ratio of our offer; and |
|
|
|
the equivalent price per common share of New Valley, based on
the exchange ratio. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vector | |
|
New Valley | |
|
New Valley | |
|
|
Historical | |
|
Historical | |
|
Equivalent(1) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
As of closing on November 16, 2005, price per share
|
|
$ |
20.03 |
|
|
$ |
9.20 |
|
|
$ |
10.82 |
|
|
|
(1) |
We calculated the New Valley equivalent data by multiplying the
applicable Vector closing price by the exchange ratio in the
offer and the subsequent merger of 0.54 of a share of Vector
common stock for each common share of New Valley. |
On November 22, 2005, the last trading date prior to the
printing of this Prospectus for which this information was
practicably available, the closing prices per share of Vector
common stock and per common share of New Valley were $20.32 and
$10.87, respectively.
The market prices of shares of Vector common stock and New
Valley common shares are subject to fluctuation. The actual
value of the shares of Vector common stock you receive in the
offer will likely differ from the values illustrated. You are
urged to obtain current market quotations. See Comparative
Per Share Market Price and Dividend Information beginning
on page 51.
Vector Dividend Policy
The holders of shares of Vector common stock receive dividends
if and when declared by our board of directors out of legally
available funds. We currently pay quarterly cash dividends at a
rate of $0.40 per share. We currently expect to continue to
pay quarterly cash dividends at this rate on a basis consistent
with our past practice following completion of the offer and the
subsequent merger. However, payment of dividends is within the
discretion of Vectors board and is subject to a variety of
contingencies such as market conditions, earnings and our
financial condition as well as the availability of cash. On
September 9, 2005, Vector declared a regular quarterly
dividend of $0.40 per share and a 5% stock dividend payable
on September 29, 2005 to holders of record of Vector common
stock on September 20, 2005. No assurance can be given that
we will continue to pay cash dividends on our common stock at
the current rate in the future or that stock dividends will be
declared in the future.
9
RISK FACTORS
In deciding whether to tender your common shares pursuant to the
offer, you should read carefully this Prospectus and the
documents which we incorporate by reference into this
Prospectus. You should also carefully consider the following
factors:
Risks Related to the Offer and the Subsequent Merger
|
|
|
The number of shares of Vector common stock that you will
receive in the offer and the subsequent merger will be based
upon a fixed exchange ratio. The value of the shares of Vector
common stock at the time you receive them could be less than at
the time you tender your common shares of New Valley. |
In the offer and the subsequent merger, each common share of New
Valley will be exchanged for 0.54 of a share of Vector common
stock. This is a fixed exchange ratio. We will not adjust the
exchange ratio as a result of any change in the market price of
Vector common stock between the date of this Prospectus and the
date you receive shares of Vector common stock in exchange for
common shares of New Valley. The market price of the Vector
common stock will likely be different on the date you receive
shares of Vector common stock than it is today because of
changes in the business, operations or prospects of Vector,
market reactions to our offer, general market and economic
conditions and other factors. You are urged to obtain current
market quotations for Vector common stock and New Valley common
shares. See Comparative Per Share Market Price and
Dividend Information beginning on page 51.
|
|
|
The trading price of Vectors common stock may be
affected by factors in addition to those factors affecting the
price of New Valleys common shares. The price of
Vectors common stock could decline following the
offer. |
If we successfully complete the offer and the subsequent merger,
holders of New Valleys common shares will become holders
of Vectors common stock. Although we currently own
approximately 57.7% of New Valleys outstanding common
shares, we also own and operate other businesses. Accordingly,
our results of operations and business, as well as the trading
price of our common stock, may be affected by factors in
addition to those affecting New Valleys results of
operations and business and the price of New Valleys
common shares. The price of Vectors common stock may
decrease after we accept common shares of New Valley for
exchange in the offer and complete the subsequent merger.
|
|
|
We have not negotiated with or sought approval of the
price or terms of the offer or the subsequent merger from New
Valleys board. |
In evaluating this offer, you should be aware that we have not
negotiated the price or terms of this offer or the subsequent
merger with New Valley, its board of directors or any special
committee of its board. We have also not requested that New
Valley, its board of directors or any special committee of its
board approve this offer or the subsequent merger. However,
after we commenced our initial offer at an exchange ratio of
0.461 on October 20, 2005, our representatives and
representatives of the special committees financial and
legal advisors scheduled a series of due diligence meetings. In
addition, representatives of our respective financial advisors
held several discussions to exchange perspectives regarding the
offer and subsequent merger and on November 21, 2005 we
provided to the special committee a substantially complete copy
of this Prospectus.
|
|
|
The board of directors and executive officers of New
Valley have potential conflicts of interests with respect to the
offer. |
You should be aware that there exist conflicts of interest among
members of the New Valley board. Not only does Vector own
approximately 57.7% of the outstanding New Valley common shares,
but four of the eight members of the New Valley board are
directors and/or executive officers of Vector. For additional
information on the interests that New Valleys board
members and executive officers may have
10
in the offer and subsequent merger, see Interests of
Certain Persons in the Offer and Subsequent Merger
beginning on page 72.
|
|
|
The offer and the subsequent merger may not qualify as a
reorganization for United States federal income tax
purposes. |
The offer and the subsequent merger are intended to qualify as a
reorganization for United States federal income tax
purposes under which you would generally not recognize gain or
loss upon the receipt of shares of Vector common stock in
exchange for your common shares of New Valley, other than any
gain or loss recognized on the receipt of cash instead of
fractional shares. The offer is conditioned on the receipt of an
opinion from Vectors legal counsel to the effect that the
Vector common stock received in the offer and subsequent merger
will be treated as received in a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Counsels opinion will be based on the
accuracy of certain representations and covenants to be made by
Vector and New Valley in certificates of officers of Vector and
New Valley provided to counsel as of the expiration of the
offer, and on the occurrence of certain events after completion
of the offer, including the subsequent merger. In addition,
counsels opinion is not binding on the Internal Revenue
Service, which may disagree with and challenge the conclusions
contained in counsels opinion. If the Vector common stock
received in the offer and the subsequent merger is not treated
as received in a reorganization, the receipt of Vector common
stock for New Valley common shares will be taxable to you. See
The Offer Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Consequences beginning on page 57.
|
|
|
We may not be able to effect the short form
merger even if a sufficient number of common shares of New
Valley are tendered in the offer. |
We will promptly complete a short form merger
following the completion of the offer unless we are prevented
from doing so by a court or other legal requirement. However, if
we successfully complete the offer but are not able to complete
promptly the short form merger, common shares of New
Valley not tendered into the offer would remain outstanding
until we are able to effect such a merger, if ever. In these
circumstances, the liquidity of and market for those remaining
publicly held common shares of New Valley could be adversely
affected. New Valleys common shares are currently listed
on The Nasdaq Stock Market. Depending upon the number of common
shares of New Valley purchased in the offer, New Valleys
common shares may no longer meet the requirements for continued
listing and may be delisted from The Nasdaq Stock Market. It is
possible that New Valleys common shares would continue to
trade in the over-the-counter market and that price quotations
would be reported by other sources. The extent of the public
market for New Valleys common shares and the availability
of these quotations would depend, however, upon the number of
holders of New Valleys common shares remaining at that
time, the interests in maintaining a market in New Valleys
common shares on the part of securities firms, the possible
termination of registration of New Valleys common shares
under the Exchange Act, as described below, and other factors.
In addition, if the subsequent short form merger is
not completed, the Vector common stock received in the offer for
New Valley common shares may not be treated as received in a
reorganization and will be taxable to you. See The
Offer Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Consequences beginning on page 57.
In addition, New Valleys registration under the Exchange
Act could be terminated upon application of New Valley to the
SEC if the shares are no longer listed on a securities exchange
and there are fewer than 300 holders of record of New Valley
common shares. The termination of the registration of New
Valleys common shares under the Exchange Act would
substantially reduce the information required to be furnished by
New Valley to its stockholders and to the SEC. It would also
make certain of the provisions of the Exchange Act, such as the
short-swing profit recovery provisions of Section 16(b) of
the Exchange Act, the requirement of furnishing a proxy
statement in connection with stockholders meetings, the
related requirement of an annual report to stockholders, and the
requirements of Rule 13e-3 of the Exchange Act with respect
to going private transactions, no longer applicable.
11
Common shares of New Valley are currently margin
securities under the regulations of the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System. This has the effect of allowing
brokers to extend credit on common shares of New Valley as
collateral. Depending on factors similar to those described
above regarding listing and market quotations, it is possible
that New Valleys common shares would no longer constitute
margin securities for purposes of the Federal
Reserve Boards margin regulations. If registration of New
Valleys common shares under the Exchange Act is
terminated, New Valleys common shares would no longer be
margin securities.
Risks Related to Our Business
Our business activities are subject to hazards and risks. The
following is a summary of the material risks relating to our
business activities. Before tendering your common shares of New
Valley in the offer, you should carefully consider the material
risks described below, as well as the other information
contained in this Prospectus and the documents incorporated by
reference in this Prospectus under the caption Where You
Can Find More Information beginning on page 79. If
any of the events described below occur, our business, financial
condition and/or results of operations could be materially
harmed, and you could lose part or all of your investment.
|
|
|
We and our subsidiaries have a substantial amount of
indebtedness. |
We and our subsidiaries have significant indebtedness and debt
service obligations. At September 30, 2005, we and our
subsidiaries had total outstanding indebtedness (including
embedded derivative liability and beneficial conversion feature
related to convertible notes) of $310.1 million. In
addition, subject to the terms of any future agreements, we and
our subsidiaries will be able to incur additional indebtedness
in the future. There is a risk that we will not be able to
generate sufficient funds to repay our debt. If we cannot
service our fixed charges, it would have a material adverse
effect on our business and results of operations.
|
|
|
We are a holding company and depend on cash payments from
subsidiaries, which are subject to contractual and other
restrictions, in order to service our debt and to pay dividends
on our common stock. |
We are a holding company and have no operations of our own. We
hold our interests in our various businesses through our
wholly-owned subsidiary, VGR Holding. In addition to our own
cash resources, our ability to pay interest on our convertible
notes and to pay dividends on our common stock depends on the
ability of VGR Holding to make cash available to us. VGR
Holdings ability to pay dividends to us depends primarily
on the ability of Liggett Group Inc., or Liggett, its
wholly-owned subsidiary, and New Valley, in which we indirectly
hold an approximately 57.7% interest, to generate cash and make
it available to VGR Holding. Liggetts revolving credit
agreement permits Liggett to pay cash dividends to VGR Holding
only if Liggetts borrowing availability exceeds
$5.0 million for the 30 days prior to payment of the
dividend and immediately after giving effect to the dividend,
and so long as no event of default has occurred under the
agreement, including Liggetts compliance with the
covenants in the credit facility, including an adjusted net
worth and working capital requirement.
As the controlling stockholder of New Valley, we must deal
fairly with New Valley, which may limit our ability to enter
into transactions with New Valley that result in the receipt of
cash from New Valley and to influence New Valleys dividend
policy. In addition, since we indirectly own only approximately
57.7% of the common shares of New Valley, a significant portion
of any cash and other assets distributed by New Valley will be
received by persons other than us and our subsidiaries. This
risk would be eliminated if we successfully complete our offer
and the subsequent merger.
Our receipt of cash payments, as dividends or otherwise, from
our subsidiaries is an important source of our liquidity and
capital resources. If we do not have sufficient cash resources
of our own and do not receive payments from our subsidiaries in
an amount sufficient to repay our debts and to pay dividends on
our common stock, we must obtain additional funds from other
sources. There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain
additional funds at all or on terms acceptable to us. Our
inability to service these obligations
12
and to continue to pay dividends on our common stock would
significantly harm us and the value of our common stock.
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Our liquidity could be adversely affected if taxing
authorities prevail in their assertion that we incurred a tax
obligation in 1998 and 1999 in connection with the Philip Morris
brand transaction. |
In connection with the 1998 and 1999 transaction with Philip
Morris Incorporated, in which a subsidiary of Liggett
contributed three of its premium cigarette brands to Trademarks
LLC, or Trademarks, a newly-formed limited liability company, we
recognized in 1999 a pre-tax gain of $294.1 million in our
consolidated financial statements and established a deferred tax
liability of $103.1 million relating to the gain. In such
transaction, Philip Morris acquired an option to purchase the
remaining interest in Trademarks for a 90-day period commencing
in December 2008, and we have an option to require Philip Morris
to purchase the remaining interest for a 90-day period
commencing in March 2010. Upon exercise of the options during
either of the 90-day periods commencing in December 2008 or in
March 2010, we will be required to pay tax in the amount of the
deferred tax liability, which will be offset by the benefit of
any deferred tax assets, including any net operating losses,
available to us at that time. In connection with an examination
of our 1998 and 1999 federal income tax returns, the Internal
Revenue Service issued to us in September 2003 a notice of
proposed adjustment. The notice asserts that, for tax reporting
purposes, the entire gain should have been recognized in 1998
and in 1999 in the additional amounts of $150.0 million and
$129.9 million, respectively, rather than upon the exercise
of the options during either of the 90-day periods commencing in
December 2008 or in March 2010. If the Internal Revenue Service
were to ultimately prevail with the proposed adjustment, it
would result in the potential acceleration of tax payments of
approximately $126.0 million, including interest, net of
tax benefits, through September 30, 2005. These amounts
have been previously recognized in our consolidated financial
statements as tax liabilities. In addition, we have filed a
protest with the Appeals Division of the Internal Revenue
Service. Although no payment is due with respect to these
matters during the appeal process, interest is accruing on the
disputed amounts.
There is a risk that the taxing authorities will ultimately
prevail in their assertion that we incurred a tax obligation
prior to the exercise dates of these options and we will be
required to make such tax payments prior to 2009 or 2010. If
that were to occur and any necessary financing were not
available to us, our liquidity could be materially adversely
affected, which in turn would materially adversely affect the
value of our common stock.
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Liggett faces intense competition in the domestic tobacco
industry. |
Liggett is considerably smaller and has fewer resources than its
major competitors and, as a result, has a more limited ability
to respond to market developments. Management Science Associates
data indicate that the three largest cigarette manufacturers
controlled approximately 83.2% of the United States cigarette
market during 2004. Philip Morris is the largest and most
profitable manufacturer in the market, and its profits are
derived principally from its sale of premium cigarettes. Philip
Morris had approximately 62.3% of the premium segment and 47.5%
of the total domestic market during 2004. During 2004, all of
Liggetts sales were in the discount segment, and its share
of the total domestic cigarette market was 2.3%. Philip Morris
and RJR Tobacco (which is now part of Reynolds American Inc., or
Reynolds American), the two largest cigarette manufacturers,
have historically, because of their dominant market share, been
able to determine cigarette prices for the various pricing tiers
within the industry. Market pressures have historically caused
the other cigarette manufacturers to bring their prices into
line with the levels established by these two major
manufacturers.
In July 2004, RJR Tobacco and Brown & Williamson, the
second and third largest cigarette manufacturers, completed the
combination of their United States tobacco businesses to create
Reynolds American. This transaction has further consolidated the
dominance of the domestic cigarette market by Philip Morris and
the newly created Reynolds American, who had an initial combined
market share of approximately 76%. This concentration of United
States market share could make it more difficult for Liggett and
Vector Tobacco to compete for shelf space in retail outlets and
could impact price competition
13
in the market, either of which could have a material adverse
affect on their sales volume, operating income and cash flows,
which in turn could negatively affect the value of our common
stock.
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Liggetts business is highly dependent on the
discount cigarette segment. |
Liggett depends more on sales in the discount cigarette segment
of the market, relative to the full-price premium segment, than
its major competitors. All of Liggetts unit volume in
2004, and approximately 94.6% of Liggetts unit sales in
2003, were generated in the discount segment. The discount
segment is highly competitive, with consumers having less brand
loyalty and placing greater emphasis on price. While the three
major manufacturers all compete with Liggett in the discount
segment of the market, the strongest competition for market
share has recently come from a group of small manufacturers and
importers, most of which sell low quality, deep discount
cigarettes. While Liggetts share of the discount market
increased to 7.4% in 2004 from 7.3% in 2003 and 6.7% in 2002,
Management Science Associates data indicate that the discount
market share of these other smaller manufacturers and importers
increased to 39% in 2004 from 37.8% in 2003 and 33.5% in 2002
due to their increased competitive discounting. If pricing in
the discount market continues to be impacted by these smaller
manufacturers and importers, margins in Liggetts only
current market segment could be negatively affected, which in
turn could negatively affect the value of our common stock.
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Liggetts market share is susceptible to
decline. |
In years prior to 2000, Liggett suffered a substantial decline
in unit sales and associated market share. Liggetts unit
sales and market share increased during each of 2000, 2001 and
2002, and its market share increased in 2003 while its unit
sales declined. During 2004, Liggetts unit sales and
market share declined compared to the prior year. This earlier
market share erosion resulted in part from Liggetts highly
leveraged capital structure that existed until December 1998 and
its limited ability to match other competitors wholesale
and retail trade programs, obtain retail shelf space for its
products and advertise its brands. The decline in recent years
also resulted from adverse developments in the tobacco industry,
intense competition and changes in consumer preferences.
According to Management Science Associates data, Liggetts
overall domestic market share during 2004 was 2.3% compared to
2.4% during 2003 and 2002. Liggetts share of the premium
segment was 0.2% in 2003 and 0.3% in 2002, and its share of the
discount segment during 2004 was 7.4%, up from 7.3% in 2003 and
6.7% in 2002. If Liggetts market share continues to
decline, Liggetts sales volume, operating income and cash
flows could be materially adversely affected, which in turn
could negatively affect the value of our common stock.
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The domestic cigarette industry has experienced declining
unit sales in recent periods. |
Industry-wide shipments of cigarettes in the United States have
been generally declining for a number of years, with published
industry sources estimating that domestic industry-wide
shipments decreased by approximately 1.7% during 2004. According
to Management Science Associates data, domestic industry-wide
shipments decreased by 4.1% in 2003 compared to 2002.
Liggetts management believes that industry-wide shipments
of cigarettes in the United States will generally continue to
decline as a result of numerous factors. These factors include
health considerations, diminishing social acceptance of smoking,
and a wide variety of federal, state and local laws limiting
smoking in restaurants, bars and other public places, as well as
federal and state excise tax increases and settlement-related
expenses which have contributed to high cigarette price levels
in recent years. If this decline in industry-wide shipments
continues and Liggett is unable to capture market share from its
competitors, or if the industry as a whole is unable to offset
the decline in unit sales with price increases, Liggetts
sales volume, operating income and cash flows could be
materially adversely affected, which in turn could negatively
affect the value of our common stock.
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Litigation and regulation will continue to harm the
tobacco industry. |
The cigarette industry continues to be challenged on numerous
fronts. New cases continue to be commenced against Liggett and
other cigarette manufacturers. As of September 30, 2005,
there were
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approximately 278 individual suits, 11 purported class actions
and eight governmental and other third-party payor health care
reimbursement actions pending in the United States in which
Liggett was a named defendant. A civil lawsuit has been filed by
the United States federal government seeking disgorgement of
approximately $289 billion from various cigarette
manufacturers, including Liggett. A federal appellate court
ruled in February 2005 that disgorgement is not an available
remedy in the case. In October 2005, the United States Supreme
Court declined to review this decision. Trial of the case
concluded on June 15, 2005. On June 27, 2005, the
government sought to restructure its potential remedies and
filed a proposed Final Judgment and Order. That relief can be
grouped into four categories: (1) $14 billion for a
cessation and counter marketing program; (2) so-called
corrective statements; (3) disclosures; and
(4) enjoined activities. The parties are expected to
complete post-trial submissions during November 2005. In one of
the other cases pending against Liggett, in 2000, an action
against cigarette manufacturers involving approximately 1,000
named individual plaintiffs was consolidated before a single
West Virginia state court. Liggett is a defendant in most of the
cases pending in West Virginia. In January 2002, the court
severed Liggett from the trial of the consolidated action. Two
purported class actions have been certified in state court in
Kansas and New Mexico against the cigarette manufacturers for
alleged antitrust violations. As new cases are commenced, the
costs associated with defending these cases and the risks
relating to the inherent unpredictability of litigation continue
to increase.
Class action suits have been filed in a number of states against
individual cigarette manufacturers, alleging that the use of the
terms lights and ultralights constitutes
unfair and deceptive trade practices. One such suit (Schwab v.
Philip Morris, et al.), pending in federal court in New York
against the cigarette manufacturers, seeks to create a
nationwide class of light cigarette smokers and
includes Liggett as a defendant. Plaintiffs motion for
class certification and summary judgment motions by both sides
were heard in September 2005. On November 14, 2005, the
Court issued an opinion permitting plaintiffs to seek fluid
recovery damages if class certification is granted. Fluid
recovery would permit potential damages to be paid out in ways
other than merely giving cash directly to plaintiffs, such as
establishing a pool of money that could be used for public
purposes. To date, the Court has indicated that it is unprepared
to issue a class certification decision and will allow discovery
to continue. There is no trial date currently scheduled.
There are seven individual actions where Liggett is the only
defendant. Trial in one of these cases is currently scheduled to
commence on November 28, 2005 in Missouri state court, and
the plaintiff is seeking compensatory and punitive damages. In
April 2004, in one of these cases, a jury in a Florida state
court action awarded compensatory damages of $0.5 million
against Liggett. In addition, plaintiffs counsel was
awarded legal fees of $0.8 million. Liggett has appealed
the verdict. In February 2005, in another of these cases, a
Florida state court jury returned a verdict in favor of Liggett.
In July 2005, the court denied the plaintiffs post-trial
motion seeking a new trial. The plaintiff did not appeal the
decision. In March 2005, in another case in Florida state court
in which Liggett is the only defendant, the court granted
Liggetts motion for summary judgment disposing of the case
in its entirety. The plaintiff has appealed.
In May 2003, a Florida intermediate appellate court overturned a
$790 million punitive damages award against Liggett and
decertified the Engle smoking and health class action. In May
2004, the Florida Supreme Court agreed to review the case. Oral
argument was held in November 2004. If the intermediate
appellate courts ruling is not upheld on appeal, it will
have a material adverse effect on us. In November 2000, Liggett
filed the $3.45 million bond required under the bonding
statute enacted in 2000 by the Florida legislature which limits
the size of any bond required, pending appeal, to stay execution
of a punitive damages verdict. In May 2001, Liggett reached an
agreement with the class in the Engle case, which provided
assurance to Liggett that the stay of execution, in effect under
the Florida bonding statute, would not be lifted or limited at
any point until completion of all appeals, including to the
United States Supreme Court. As required by the agreement,
Liggett paid $6.27 million into an escrow account to be
held for the benefit of the Engle class, and released, along
with Liggetts existing $3.45 million statutory bond,
to the court for the benefit of the class upon completion of the
appeals process, regardless of the outcome of the appeal. In
June 2002, the jury in an individual case brought under the
third phase of the Engle case awarded $37.5 million
(subsequently reduced by the court to $25.1 million) of
compensatory
15
damages against Liggett and two other defendants and found
Liggett 50% responsible for the damages. The verdict, which is
subject to the outcome of the Engle appeal, has been overturned
as a result of the appellate courts ruling discussed
above. It is possible that additional cases could be decided
unfavorably and that there could be further adverse developments
in the Engle case. Liggett may enter into discussions in an
attempt to settle particular cases if it believes it is
appropriate to do so. We cannot predict the cash requirements
related to any future settlements and judgments, including cash
required to bond any appeals, and there is a risk that those
requirements will not be able to be met.
In recent years, there have been a number of proposed
restrictive regulatory actions from various federal
administrative bodies, including the United States Environmental
Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration. There
have also been adverse political decisions and other unfavorable
developments concerning cigarette smoking and the tobacco
industry, including the commencement and certification of class
actions and the commencement of third-party payor actions. These
developments generally receive widespread media attention. We
are not able to evaluate the effect of these developing matters
on pending litigation or the possible commencement of additional
litigation, but our consolidated financial position, results of
operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected
by an unfavorable outcome in any smoking-related litigation,
which in turn could negatively affect the value of our common
stock.
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Liggett may have additional payment obligations under the
Master Settlement Agreement and its other settlement agreements
with the states. |
Liggett has recently been notified that all Participating
Manufacturers payment obligations under the Master
Settlement Agreement, dating from the agreements execution
in late 1998, have been recalculated utilizing net unit amounts,
rather than gross unit amounts (which have been utilized since
1999). The change in the method of calculation could, among
other things, require additional payments by Liggett under the
Master Settlement Agreement of approximately $2.3 million
per year for the period 2001 through 2004, or a total of
approximately $9.2 million, and require Liggett to pay an
additional amount of approximately $2.4 million per year in
2005 and in future periods by lowering Liggetts market
share exemption under the Master Settlement Agreement. Liggett
contends that the retroactive change from utilizing gross unit
amounts to net unit amounts is impermissible and has objected to
the change. Liggett intends to challenge the change in
methodology.
On March 30, 2005, the Independent Auditor under the Master
Settlement Agreement calculated $28.7 million in Master
Settlement Agreement payments for Liggetts 2004 sales. On
April 15, 2005, Liggett paid $11.7 million of this
amount and, in accordance with its rights under the Master
Settlement Agreement, disputed the balance of
$17.0 million. Of the disputed amount, Liggett paid
$9.3 million into the disputed payments account under the
Master Settlement Agreement and withheld from payment
$7.7 million. The $9.3 million paid into the disputed
payments account represents the amount claimed by Liggett as an
adjustment to its 2003 payment obligation under the Master
Settlement Agreement for market share loss to non-participating
manufacturers. The $7.7 million withheld from payment
represents $5.3 million claimed as an adjustment to
Liggetts 2004 Master Settlement Agreement obligation for
market share loss to non-participating manufacturers and
$2.4 million relating to the retroactive change, discussed
above, to the method for computing payment obligations under the
Master Settlement Agreement which Liggett contends, among other
things, is not in accordance with the Master Settlement
Agreement. On May 31, 2005, New York State filed a motion
on behalf of the Settling States in New York state court seeking
to compel Liggett and the other Subsequent Participating
Manufacturers that paid into the disputed payments account to
release to the Settling States the amounts paid into such
account. The Settling States contend that Liggett had no right
under the Master Settlement Agreement and related agreements to
pay into the disputed payments account any amount claimed as an
adjustment for market share loss to non-participating
manufacturers for 2003, although they acknowledge that Liggett
has the right to dispute such amounts. By stipulation among the
parties dated July 25, 2005, New Yorks motion was
dismissed and Liggett authorized the release to the Settling
States of the $9.3 million it had paid into the account,
although Liggett continues to dispute that it owes this amount.
16
In 2004, the Attorneys General for each of Florida, Mississippi
and Texas advised Liggett that they believed that Liggett had
failed to make all required payments under the settlement
agreements with these three states for the period 1998 through
2003 and that additional payments might be due for 2004 and
subsequent years. Liggett believes these allegations are without
merit, based, among other things, on the language of the
most-favored nation provisions of the settlement agreements. In
December 2004, the State of Florida offered to settle all
amounts allegedly owed by Liggett for the period through 2003
for the sum of $13.5 million. In March 2005, the State of
Florida reaffirmed its December 2004 offer to settle and
provided Liggett with a 60 day notice to cure the alleged
defaults. In November 2005, Florida made a revised offer that
Liggett pay Florida $4.25 million to resolve all matters
through December 31, 2005, and pay Florida $0.17 per pack
on all Liggett cigarettes sold in Florida beginning
January 1, 2006. Liggett has not yet responded to this
revised offer from Florida. In November 2004, the State of
Mississippi offered to settle all amounts allegedly owed by
Liggett for the period through 2003 for the sum of
$6.5 million. In April 2005, the State of Mississippi
reaffirmed its November 2004 offer to settle and provided
Liggett with a 60 day notice to cure the alleged defaults.
Liggett has met with representatives of the three states to
discuss the issues relating to the alleged defaults. No
resolution has been reached.
No amounts have been accrued in our financial statements for any
additional amounts that may be payable by Liggett under the
Master Settlement Agreement, due to the recalculation of the
Participating Manufacturers payment obligations, or under
the settlement agreements with Florida, Mississippi and Texas.
There can be no assurance that Liggett will prevail in any of
these matters and that Liggett will not be required to make
additional material payments, which payments could materially
adversely affect our consolidated financial position, results of
operations or cash flows and the value of our common stock.
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Liggett has significant sales to a single customer. |
During 2004, 13.8% of Liggetts total revenues and 13.4% of
our consolidated revenues were generated by sales to
Liggetts largest customer. Liggetts contract with
this customer currently extends through March 31, 2009. If
this customer discontinues its relationship with Liggett or
experiences financial difficulties, Liggetts results of
operations could be materially adversely affected.
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Liggett may be adversely affected by recent legislation to
eliminate the federal tobacco quota system. |
In October 2004, federal legislation was enacted which abolished
the federal tobacco quota system and price support system.
Pursuant to the legislation, manufacturers of tobacco products
will be assessed $10.1 billion over a ten year period to
compensate tobacco growers and quota holders for the elimination
of their quota rights. Cigarette manufacturers will initially be
responsible for 96.3% of the assessment (subject to adjustment
in the future), which will be allocated based on relative unit
volume of domestic cigarette shipments. We currently estimate
that Liggetts assessment will be approximately
$25 million for the first year of the program which began
January 1, 2005, including a special federal quota stock
liquidation assessment of $5.2 million. The relative cost
of the legislation to each of the three largest cigarette
manufacturers will likely be less than the cost to smaller
manufacturers, including Liggett and Vector Tobacco, because one
effect of the legislation is that the three largest
manufacturers will no longer be obligated to make certain
contractual payments, commonly known as Phase II payments,
they agreed in 1999 to make to tobacco-producing states. The
ultimate impact of this legislation cannot be determined, but
there is a risk that smaller manufacturers, such as Liggett and
Vector Tobacco, will be disproportionately affected by the
legislation, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
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Excise tax increases adversely affect cigarette
sales. |
Cigarettes are subject to substantial and increasing federal,
state and local excise taxes. The federal excise tax on
cigarettes is currently $0.39 per pack. State and local
sales and excise taxes vary considerably and, when combined with
the current federal excise tax, may currently exceed
$4.00 per pack. In 2004, ten states enacted increases in
excise taxes, and nine states have enacted increases in 2005.
Congress has considered significant increases in the federal
excise tax or other payments from tobacco manufacturers, and
various states and other jurisdictions have currently under
consideration or pending legislation
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proposing further state excise tax increases. We believe that
increases in excise and similar taxes have had an adverse impact
on sales of cigarettes. Further substantial federal or state
excise tax increases could accelerate the trend away from
smoking and could have a material adverse effect on
Liggetts sales and profitability, which in turn could
negatively affect the value of our common stock.
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Vector Tobacco is subject to risks inherent in new product
development initiatives. |
We have made, and currently plan to continue to make,
significant investments in Vector Tobaccos development
projects in the tobacco industry. Vector Tobacco is in the
business of developing and marketing the low nicotine and
nicotine-free QUEST cigarette products and developing reduced
risk cigarette products. These initiatives are subject to high
levels of risk, uncertainties and contingencies, including the
challenges inherent in new product development. There is a risk
that continued investments in Vector Tobacco will harm our
results of operations, liquidity or cash flow.
The substantial risks facing Vector Tobacco include:
Risks of market acceptance of new products. In November
2001, Vector Tobacco launched nationwide its reduced carcinogen
OMNI cigarettes. During 2002, acceptance of OMNI in the
marketplace was limited, with revenues of only approximately
$5.1 million on sales of 70.7 million units. Since
2003, OMNI sales activity has been minimal as Vector Tobacco has
not been actively marketing the OMNI product, and the product is
not currently in distribution. Vector Tobacco was unable to
achieve the anticipated breadth of distribution and sales of the
OMNI product due, in part, to the lack of success of its
advertising and marketing efforts in differentiating OMNI from
other conventional cigarettes with consumers through the
reduced carcinogen message. Over the next several
years, our in-house research program, together with third-party
collaborators, plans to conduct appropriate studies relating
OMNIs reduction of carcinogens to reduced risk in smokers
and, based on these studies, we will review the marketing and
positioning of the OMNI brand in order to formulate a strategy
for its long-term success. OMNI has not been a commercially
successful product to date, and there is a risk that we will be
unable to take action to significantly increase the level of
OMNI sales in the future.
Vector Tobacco introduced its low nicotine and nicotine-free
QUEST cigarettes in an initial seven-state market in January
2003 and in Arizona in January 2004. During the second quarter
of 2004, based on an analysis of the market data obtained since
the introduction of the QUEST product, we determined to postpone
indefinitely the national launch of QUEST. A national launch of
the QUEST brands would require the expenditure of substantial
additional sums for advertising and sales promotion, with no
assurance of consumer acceptance. Low nicotine and nicotine-free
cigarettes may not ultimately be accepted by adult smokers and
also may not prove to be commercially successful products. Adult
smokers may decide not to purchase cigarettes made with low
nicotine and nicotine-free tobaccos due to taste or other
preferences, or due to the use of genetically modified tobacco
or other product modifications.
Recoverability of costs of inventory. At
September 30, 2005, approximately $1.3 million of our
leaf inventory was associated with Vector Tobaccos QUEST
product. We estimate an inventory reserve for excess quantities
and obsolete items, taking into account future demand and market
conditions. During the second quarter of 2004, we recognized a
non-cash charge of $37 million to adjust the carrying value
of excess leaf tobacco inventory for the QUEST product, based on
estimates of future demand and market conditions. If actual
demand or market conditions in the future are less favorable
than those estimated, additional inventory write-downs may be
required.
Third party allegations that Vector Tobacco products are
unlawful or bear deceptive or unsubstantiated product
claims. Vector Tobacco is engaged in the development and
marketing of low nicotine and nicotine-free cigarettes and the
development of reduced risk cigarette products. With respect to
OMNI, which is not currently being distributed by Vector
Tobacco, reductions in carcinogens have not yet been proven to
result in a safer cigarette. Like other cigarettes, the OMNI and
QUEST products also produce tar, carbon monoxide, other harmful
by-products, and, in the case of OMNI, increased levels of
nitric oxide and formaldehyde. There are currently no specific
governmental standards or parameters for these products and
product claims. There is a risk that federal or state regulators
may object to Vector
18
Tobaccos low nicotine and nicotine-free cigarette products
and reduced risk cigarette products it may develop as unlawful
or allege they bear deceptive or unsubstantiated product claims,
and seek the removal of the products from the marketplace, or
significant changes to advertising. Various concerns regarding
Vector Tobaccos advertising practices have been expressed
to Vector Tobacco by certain state attorneys general. Vector
Tobacco has engaged in discussions in an effort to resolve these
concerns and Vector Tobacco has agreed to suspend all print
advertising for its QUEST brand while discussions are pending.
If Vector Tobacco is unable to advertise its QUEST brand, it
could have a material adverse effect on sales of QUEST.
Allegations by federal or state regulators, public health
organizations and other tobacco manufacturers that Vector
Tobaccos products are unlawful, or that its public
statements or advertising contain misleading or unsubstantiated
health claims or product comparisons, may result in litigation
or governmental proceedings. Vector Tobaccos defense
against such claims could require it to incur substantial
expense and to divert significant efforts of its scientific and
marketing personnel. An adverse determination in a judicial
proceeding or by a regulatory agency could have a material and
adverse impact on Vector Tobaccos business, operating
results and prospects.
Potential extensive government regulation. Vector
Tobaccos business may become subject to extensive
additional domestic and international government regulation.
Various proposals have been made for federal, state and
international legislation to regulate cigarette manufacturers
generally, and reduced constituent cigarettes specifically. It
is possible that laws and regulations may be adopted covering
matters such as the manufacture, sale, distribution and labeling
of tobacco products as well as any health claims associated with
reduced carcinogen and low nicotine and nicotine-free cigarette
products and the use of genetically modified tobacco. A system
of regulation by agencies such as the Food and Drug
Administration, the Federal Trade Commission and the United
States Department of Agriculture may be established. In
addition, a group of public health organizations submitted a
petition to the Food and Drug Administration, alleging that the
marketing of the OMNI product is subject to regulation by the
Food and Drug Administration under existing law. Vector Tobacco
has filed a response in opposition to the petition. The Federal
Trade Commission has expressed interest in the regulation of
tobacco products made by tobacco manufacturers, including Vector
Tobacco, which bear reduced carcinogen claims. The outcome of
any of the foregoing cannot be predicted, but any of the
foregoing could have a material adverse impact on Vector
Tobaccos business, operating results and prospects.
Necessity of obtaining Food and Drug Administration approval
to market QUEST as a smoking cessation product. In October
2003, we announced that Jed E. Rose, Ph.D., Director of
Duke University Medical Centers Nicotine Research Program
and co-inventor of the nicotine patch, had conducted a study at
Duke University Medical Center to provide preliminary evaluation
of the use of the QUEST technology as a smoking cessation aid.
We have received guidance from the Food and Drug Administration
as to the additional clinical research and regulatory filings
necessary to market QUEST as a smoking cessation product. We are
currently conducting a multi-centered clinical trial with QUEST
cigarettes, which should be completed by the end of the first
quarter of 2006. We believe that obtaining the Food and Drug
Administrations approval to market QUEST as a smoking
cessation product will be an important factor in the long-term
commercial success of the QUEST brand. No assurance can be given
that such approval can be obtained or as to the timing of any
such approval if received.
Competition from other cigarette manufacturers with greater
resources. Vector Tobaccos competitors generally have
substantially greater resources than Vector Tobacco, including
financial, marketing and personnel resources. Other major
tobacco companies have stated that they are working on reduced
risk cigarette products and have made publicly available at this
time only limited additional information concerning their
activities. Philip Morris has announced it is developing
products that potentially reduce smokers exposure to
harmful compounds in cigarette smoke. RJR Tobacco has stated
that in 2003 it began a phased expansion into a select number of
retail chain outlets of a cigarette product that primarily heats
rather than burns tobacco, which it claims reduces the toxicity
of its smoke. In 2002, Brown & Williamson Tobacco
Corporation announced it was test marketing a new cigarette with
reduced levels of many toxins which it may introduce on a
national basis. There is a substantial likelihood that other
major
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tobacco companies will continue to introduce new products that
are designed to compete directly with Vector Tobaccos
reduced carcinogen and low nicotine and nicotine-free products.
Potential disputes concerning intellectual property.
Vector Tobaccos ability to commercially exploit its
proprietary technology for its reduced carcinogen and low
nicotine and nicotine-free products depends in large part on its
ability to obtain and defend issued patents, to obtain further
patent protection for its existing technology in the United
States and other jurisdictions, and to operate without
infringing on the patents and proprietary rights of others both
in the United States and abroad. Additionally, it must be able
to obtain appropriate licenses to patents or proprietary rights
held by third parties if infringement would otherwise occur,
both in the United States and in foreign countries.
Intellectual property rights, including Vector Tobaccos
patents (owned or licensed), involve complex legal and factual
issues. Any conflicts resulting from third party patent
applications and granted patents could significantly limit
Vector Tobaccos ability to obtain meaningful patent
protection or to commercialize its technology. If necessary
patents currently exist or are issued to other companies that
contain competitive or conflicting claims, Vector Tobacco may be
required to obtain licenses to use these patents or to develop
or obtain alternative technology. Licensing agreements, if
required, may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. If
licenses are not obtained, Vector Tobacco could be delayed in,
or prevented from, pursuing the further development or marketing
of its new cigarette products. Any alternative technology, if
feasible, could take several years to develop.
Litigation which could result in substantial cost also may be
necessary to enforce any patents to which Vector Tobacco has
rights, or to determine the scope, validity and unenforceability
of other parties proprietary rights which may affect
Vector Tobaccos rights. Vector Tobacco also may have to
participate in interference proceedings declared by the
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to determine the priority
of an invention or in opposition proceedings in foreign counties
or jurisdictions, which could result in substantial costs. There
is a risk that its licensed patents would be held invalid by a
court or administrative body or that an alleged infringer would
not be found to be infringing. The mere uncertainty resulting
from the institution and continuation of any technology-related
litigation or any interference or opposition proceedings could
have a material and adverse effect on Vector Tobaccos
business, operating results and prospects.
Vector Tobacco may also rely on unpatented trade secrets and
know-how to maintain its competitive position, which it seeks to
protect, in part, by confidentiality agreements with employees,
consultants, suppliers and others. There is a risk that these
agreements will be breached or terminated, that Vector Tobacco
will not have adequate remedies for any breach, or that its
trade secrets will otherwise become known or be independently
discovered by competitors.
Dependence on key scientific personnel. Vector
Tobaccos business depends on the continued services of key
scientific personnel for its continued development and growth.
The loss of Dr. Anthony Albino, Vice President of Public
Health, could have a serious negative impact upon Vector
Tobaccos business, operating results and prospects.
Ability to raise capital and manage growth of business.
If Vector Tobacco succeeds in introducing to market and
increasing consumer acceptance for its new cigarette products,
Vector Tobacco will be required to obtain significant amounts of
additional capital and manage substantial volume from its
customers. There is a risk that adequate amounts of additional
capital will not be available to Vector Tobacco to fund the
growth of its business. To accommodate growth and compete
effectively, Vector Tobacco will also be required to attract,
integrate, motivate and retain additional highly skilled sales,
technical and other employees. Vector Tobacco will face
competition for these people. Its ability to manage volume also
will depend on its ability to scale up its tobacco processing,
production and distribution operations. There is a risk that it
will not succeed in scaling its processing, production and
distribution operations and that its personnel, systems,
procedures and controls will not be adequate to support its
future operations.
Potential delays in obtaining tobacco, other raw materials
and any technology needed to produce products. Vector
Tobacco is dependent on third parties to produce tobacco and
other raw materials that
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Vector Tobacco requires to manufacture its products. In
addition, the growing of new tobacco and new seeds is subject to
adverse weather conditions. Vector Tobacco may also need to
obtain licenses to technology subject to patents or proprietary
rights of third parties to produce its products. The failure by
such third parties to supply Vector Tobacco with tobacco, other
raw materials and technology on commercially reasonable terms,
or at all, in the absence of readily available alternative
sources, would have a serious negative impact on Vector
Tobaccos business, operating results and prospects. There
is also a risk that interruptions in the supply of these
materials and technology may occur in the future. Any
interruption in their supply could have a serious negative
impact on Vector Tobacco.
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The actual costs and savings associated with
restructurings of our tobacco business may differ materially
from amounts we estimate. |
In recent years, we have undertaken a number of initiatives to
streamline the cost structure of our tobacco business and
improve operating efficiency and long-term earnings. For
example, during 2002, the sales, marketing and support functions
of our Liggett and Vector Tobacco subsidiaries were combined.
Effective year-end 2003, we closed Vector Tobaccos
Timberlake, North Carolina manufacturing facility and moved all
production to Liggetts facility in Mebane, North Carolina.
In April 2004, we eliminated a number of positions in our
tobacco operations and subleased excess office space. In October
2004, we announced a plan to restructure the operations of
Liggett Vector Brands, effective December 15, 2004. We may
consider various additional opportunities to further improve
efficiencies and reduce costs. These prior and current
initiatives have involved material restructuring and impairment
charges, and any future actions taken are likely to involve
material charges as well. These restructuring charges are based
on our best estimate at the time of restructuring. The status of
the restructuring activities is reviewed on a quarterly basis
and any adjustments to the reserve, which could differ
materially from previous estimates, are recorded as an
adjustment to operating income. Although we may estimate that
substantial cost savings will be associated with these
restructuring actions, there is a risk that these actions could
have a serious negative impact on our tobacco business and that
any estimated increases in profitability cannot be achieved.
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New Valley is subject to risks relating to the industries
in which it operates. |
Risks of real estate ventures. New Valley has three
significant investments, Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC, the
Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa (which reopened in
the fourth quarter 2004) and the St. Regis Hotel in
Washington, D.C. (since August 2005), in each of which it
holds only a 50% interest. New Valley must seek approval from
other parties for important actions regarding these joint
ventures. Since these other parties interests may differ
from those of New Valley, a deadlock could arise that might
impair the ability of the ventures to function. Such a deadlock
could significantly harm the ventures.
New Valley may pursue a variety of real estate development
projects. Development projects are subject to special risks
including potential increase in costs, changes in market demand,
inability to meet deadlines which may delay the timely
completion of projects, reliance on contractors who may be
unable to perform and the need to obtain various governmental
and third party consents.
Risks relating to the residential brokerage business.
Through its investment in Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC, New
Valley is subject to the risks and uncertainties endemic to the
residential brokerage business. Both Douglas Elliman and
Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate operate as franchisees of
The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Prudential Douglas
Elliman operates each of its offices under its franchisers
brand name, but generally does not own any of the brand names
under which it operates. The franchiser has significant rights
over the use of the franchised service marks and the conduct of
the two brokerage companies business. Prudential Douglas
Ellimans franchiser also has the right to terminate
Douglas Ellimans and Prudential Douglas Ellimans
franchises, upon the occurrence of certain events, including a
bankruptcy or insolvency event, a change in control, a transfer
of rights under the franchise agreements and a failure to
promptly pay amounts due under the franchise agreements. A
termination of Douglas Ellimans or Prudential Douglas
Ellimans franchise agreement could adversely affect New
Valleys investment in Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC.
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Interest rates in the United States are currently at
historically low levels. The low interest rate environment
in recent years has significantly contributed to high levels of
existing home sales and residential prices and has positively
impacted Douglas Elliman Realtys operating results.
However, the residential real estate market tends to be cyclical
and typically is affected by changes in the general economic
conditions that are beyond Douglas Elliman Realtys
control. Any of the following could have a material adverse
effect on Douglas Elliman Realtys residential business by
causing a general decline in the number of home sales and/or
prices, which in turn, could adversely affect its revenues and
profitability:
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periods of economic slowdown or recession, |
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a change in the current low interest rate environment resulting
in rising interest rates, |
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decreasing home ownership rates, or |
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declining demand for real estate. |
All of Douglas Elliman Realtys current operations are
located in the New York metropolitan area. Local and
regional economic conditions in this market could differ
materially from prevailing conditions in other parts of the
country. A downturn in the residential real estate market or
economic conditions in that region could have a material adverse
effect on Douglas Elliman Realty and New Valleys
investment in that company.
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New Valleys potential investments are unidentified
and may not succeed. |
New Valley currently holds a significant amount of marketable
securities and cash not committed to any specific investments.
This subjects a security holder to increased risk and
uncertainty because a security holder will not be able to
evaluate how this cash will be invested and the economic merits
of particular investments. There may be substantial delay in
locating suitable investment opportunities. In addition, New
Valley may lack relevant management experience in the areas in
which New Valley may invest. There is a risk that New Valley
will fail in targeting, consummating or effectively integrating
or managing any of these investments.
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We depend on our key personnel. |
We depend on the efforts of our executive officers and other key
personnel. While we believe that we could find replacements for
these key personnel, the loss of their services could have a
significant adverse effect on our operations.
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While we believe our controls systems are effective, there
are inherent limitations in all control systems, and
misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be
detected. |
We continue to take action to assure compliance with the
internal controls, disclosure controls and other requirements of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Our management, including our Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, cannot guarantee
that our internal controls and disclosure controls will prevent
all possible errors or all fraud. A control system, no matter
how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable,
not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control
system are met. In addition, the design of a control system must
reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and the
benefit of controls must be relative to their costs. Because of
the inherent limitations in all control systems, no system of
controls can provide absolute assurance that all controls issues
and instances of fraud, if any, within our company have been
detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that
judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns
can occur because of simple error or mistake. Further, controls
can be circumvented by individual acts of some persons, by
collusion of two or more persons, or by management override of
the controls. The design of any system of controls also is based
in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future
events, and there can be no assurance that any design will
succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future
conditions. Over time, a control may be inadequate because of
changes in conditions or the degree of compliance with the
policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of inherent
limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements
due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
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The price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly,
and this may make it difficult for you to resell the shares of
our common stock issuable upon exchange when you want or at
prices you find attractive. |
The trading price of our common stock has ranged between $20.82
and $14.29 per share over the past 52 weeks. We expect that
the market price of our common stock will continue to fluctuate.
The market price of our common stock may fluctuate in response
to numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control. These
factors include the following:
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actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results; |
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changes in expectations as to our future financial performance,
including financial estimates by securities analysts and
investors; |
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the operating and stock performance of our competitors; |
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announcements by us or our competitors of new products or
services or significant contracts, acquisitions, strategic
partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments; |
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the initiation or outcome of litigation; |
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changes in interest rates; |
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general economic, market and political conditions; |
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additions or departures of key personnel; and |
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future sales of our equity or convertible securities. |
We cannot predict the extent, if any, to which future sales of
shares of common stock or the availability of shares of common
stock for future sale may depress the trading price of our
common stock.
In addition, the stock market in recent years has experienced
extreme price and trading volume fluctuations that often have
been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance
of individual companies. These broad market fluctuations may
adversely affect the price of our common stock, regardless of
our operating performance. Furthermore, stockholders may
initiate securities class action lawsuits if the market price of
our stock drops significantly, which may cause us to incur
substantial costs and could divert the time and attention of our
management. These factors, among others, could significantly
depress the price of our common stock issued upon exchange.
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We have many potentially dilutive securities
outstanding. |
At December 31, 2004, we had outstanding options granted to
employees to purchase approximately 9,292,462 shares of our
common stock, at prices ranging from $6.93 to $35.81 per
share, of which options for 8,897,497 shares were
exercisable at December 31, 2004. We also have outstanding
two series of convertible notes maturing in July 2008 and
November 2011, which are currently convertible into
12,042,939 shares of our common stock. The issuance of
these shares will cause dilution which may adversely affect the
market price of our common stock. The availability for sale of
significant quantities of our common stock could adversely
affect the prevailing market price of the stock.
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FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
In addition to historical information, this Prospectus contains
forward-looking statements within the meaning of the
federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include
information relating to our intent, belief or current
expectations, primarily with respect to, but not limited to:
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economic outlook; |
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capital expenditures; |
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cost reduction; |
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new legislation; |
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cash flows; |
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operating performance; |
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litigation; |
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impairment charges and cost savings associated with
restructurings of our tobacco operations; and |
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related industry developments (including trends affecting our
business, financial condition and results of operations). |
We identify forward-looking statements in this Prospectus by
using words or phrases such as anticipate,
believe, estimate, expect,
intend, may be, objective,
plan, seek, predict,
project and will be and similar words or
phrases or their negatives.
The forward-looking information involves important risks and
uncertainties that could cause our actual results, performance
or achievements to differ materially from our anticipated
results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from those suggested by the
forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the
following:
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general economic and market conditions and any changes therein,
due to acts of war and terrorism or otherwise; |
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governmental regulations and policies; |
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effects of industry competition; |
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impact of business combinations, including acquisitions and
divestitures, both internally for us and externally in the
tobacco industry; |
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impact of restructurings on our tobacco business and our ability
to achieve any increases in profitability estimated to occur as
a result of these restructurings; |
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impact of new legislation on our competitors payment
obligations, results of operations and product costs,
i.e., the impact of recent federal legislation
eliminating the federal tobacco quota system; |
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uncertainty related to litigation and potential additional
payment obligations for us under the Master Settlement Agreement
and other settlement agreements with the states; and |
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risks inherent in our new product development initiatives. |
Further information on risks and uncertainties specific to our
business include the risk factors discussed above under
Risk Factors and in Managements
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations incorporated by reference into this Prospectus.
Although we believe the expectations reflected in these
forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions,
there is a risk that these expectations will not be attained and
that any deviations will be material. The forward-looking
statements speak only as of the date they are made.
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BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND SUBSEQUENT MERGER
The following discussion presents background information
concerning the offer and the subsequent merger and describes our
reasons for undertaking the proposed transaction at the present
time. Please see Additional Factors for Consideration by
New Valley Stockholders beginning on page 41 for
further information relating to the proposed transaction.
Vectors Long-Term Investment in New Valley
In a series of transactions commencing in 1987, we and various
predecessor companies of ours acquired an indirect controlling
equity interest in New Valley, which was then named Western
Union Corporation. The investments were made in connection with
various restructurings of Western Union Corporations debt
and equity capital. In 1991, bankruptcy proceedings were
commenced against New Valley. In January 1995, when New Valley
emerged from bankruptcy, we owned approximately 42% of New
Valleys common shares and 43% of New Valleys
Class A preferred stock. As part of the reorganization, New
Valley sold the Western Union money transfer and messaging
service businesses and all allowed claims in the bankruptcy were
paid in full.
In 1999, New Valley consummated a plan of recapitalization
pursuant to which all of its common and preferred shares were
converted into common shares and warrants of New Valley, and our
ownership of New Valleys common shares increased from
42.3% to 55.1%. We currently own 57.7% of the outstanding common
shares of New Valley.
Key Factors Motivating the Offer
A number of factors have led to our decision to undertake the
offer and subsequent merger at the present time. Some of the key
factors are as follows:
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the potential to realize synergies and cost savings; |
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the potential to more efficiently utilize the New Valley
consolidated tax groups tax loss and credit carryforwards
before they begin to expire; and |
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the opportunity to minimize potential conflicts of interest. |
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Potential to Realize Synergies and Cost Savings |
We believe that there would be opportunities to reduce
Vectors and New Valleys pretax costs by between
approximately $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 a year by eliminating
unnecessary functions and activities. We anticipate that these
significant cost savings could be achieved through the following
steps:
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eliminating redundant overhead, administration and other costs
relating to each entitys status as a public company,
including estimated potential cost savings related to
directors fees ($330,000 to $350,000), accounting and
legal expense ($250,000 to $750,000), insurance ($250,000 to
$400,000) and state franchise taxes ($200,000 to
$365,000); and |
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reducing the aggregate number of stockholders of both companies
and eliminating annual report and proxy printing and mailing
costs based on fewer stockholders of the combined companies
(estimated potential cost savings of approximately $200,000 to
$300,000). |
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Potential to More Efficiently Utilize the New Valley
Consolidated Tax Groups Tax Loss and Credit
Carryforwards |
Until 2005, Vector had been utilizing its tax loss carryforward
to reduce its taxable income and has now used all of its
available tax loss carryforwards. The New Valley consolidated
tax group currently has an aggregate of $137,500,000 in tax loss
carryforwards, approximately $43,500,000 of which expire in 2006
and 2007. The New Valley consolidated tax group also has
approximately $14,000,000 of tax credit carryforwards.
Historically, the New Valley consolidated tax group has not been
able to fully utilize its tax loss and credit carryforwards
because the group has not earned enough taxable income and,
based on current and anticipated operating results, Vector does
not currently believe that the New Valley consolidated tax group
will be able to fully utilize the tax loss carryforwards which
expire in 2006 and
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2007. After the offer and subsequent merger, members of the New
Valley consolidated tax group will become members of the Vector
consolidated tax group. Despite its recent net operating losses
in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004, Vector believes it should be able
to use the New Valley consolidated tax groups tax loss and
credit carryforwards to offset certain Vector group income that
is generated by Vectors tobacco businesses after members
of the New Valley consolidated tax group join the Vector
consolidated tax group. The New Valley consolidated tax group
also has net cumulative differences where the tax basis of its
assets exceeds the book basis by approximately $23,500,000,
which could produce tax benefits for the Vector consolidated tax
group after completion of the offer and subsequent merger. As a
Vector stockholder, former New Valley stockholders will receive
a proportionate benefit from this potential tax savings, which
they would not otherwise receive unless the New Valley
consolidated tax group was able to generate taxable income.
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Minimizing Potential Conflicts of Interest |
We believe that among the benefits of the proposed transaction
with New Valley is the elimination of the potential for
conflicts of interest between Vector and New Valley.
Consequently, time and resources can be focused on the combined
business as opposed to general corporate governance concerns.
You should review Interests of Certain Persons in the
Offer and Subsequent Merger beginning on page 72 for
a description of arrangements between Vector and New Valley and
between New Valley and directors and executive officers of New
Valley.
If conflicts of interest between New Valley and Vector were to
develop, there would be increased risk of claims for breach of
fiduciary duty against the officers of Vector who serve as
directors of New Valley. An additional benefit of the subsequent
merger to Vector would be the elimination of the possibility of
claims as to future activities being made against these Vector
officers or that they could be found liable for damages for
breach of fiduciary duty. By virtue of its obligation to
indemnify its officers who serve as directors of New Valley at
Vectors request, Vector would be responsible for defending
and indemnifying such officers against any such claims or
liabilities.
Financial Impact of the Offer on Vector
As part of the offer and the subsequent merger, Vector would
issue up to approximately 5,082,000 shares of common stock
(or, if all New Valley stock options vest and are exercised, up
to a maximum of 5,193,000 shares of Vector common stock
would be issued). The acquisition of New Valley is expected to
be immediately accretive to Vectors cash earnings.
Furthermore, we anticipate the acquisition would increase access
to available annual cash flow as a result of utilizing the tax
loss carryforwards, which could be reinvested in Vectors
or New Valleys businesses or used for debt reduction or
dividend payments.
No Prior Discussions Relating to Potential Extraordinary
Transaction
From time to time prior to the announcement of our offer on
September 27, 2005, the management and directors of Vector
considered the desirability of acquiring the common shares of
New Valley not owed by Vector. Prior to the announcement of the
offer, Vector did not make any proposals to New Valley or its
board of directors regarding Vectors acquisition of the
minority interest in New Valley. Vectors decision to
proceed with the offer, and to announce it on September 27,
2005, was made without the participation of New Valleys
board of directors or its management.
Vector Boards September 27, 2005 Decision to
Commence the Offer
Our board of directors held a meeting on September 27, 2005
to determine whether to proceed with the offer and subsequent
merger, and to determine an exchange ratio for the offer. In
evaluating this decision, our board considered many factors. Our
board believed that greater value could be achieved for both
Vector and New Valley stockholders by combining Vectors
and New Valleys business operations. In our boards
judgment, the proposed offer and subsequent merger would yield
significant efficiencies and, by fully integrating New Valley
into Vector, New Valley stockholders would be able to share in a
greater scope of opportunities than are available to them solely
as New Valley stockholders. As a result of
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exchanging their common shares of New Valley for shares of
Vector common stock, New Valley stockholders would have access
to cash dividends, which are not currently paid by New Valley,
and greater liquidity for their shares by holding the more
widely traded Vector common stock. Accordingly, we believe that
both existing Vector stockholders and New Valley stockholders
who receive shares of Vector common stock in this transaction
would benefit from our successful execution of these strategies,
and that we can realize greater long-term stockholder value as a
combined company.
In evaluating its decision whether to pursue the offer and
subsequent merger, our board considered many factors that were
relevant to its decision, including (i) the potential costs
savings and synergies that could be obtained by combining Vector
and New Valley, (ii) the current market prices and trading
volumes of Vector common stock and New Valley common shares
relative to their respective recent trading histories, and
(iii) the financial analyses of New Valley prepared by
Jefferies & Company, Inc., or Jefferies, our
boards financial advisor, which were presented to the
board at its September 27, 2005 meeting.
Jefferies financial analyses of New Valley and the effects
of a consummated transaction that were presented to the board at
its September 27, 2005 meeting consisted of (i) a
discounted cash flow analysis of New Valley which resulted in an
estimated value range per share of New Valley common shares of
$8.83 to $9.90 per share, (ii) an accretion and
dilution analysis which demonstrated that a consummated
transaction would be accretive to Vectors estimated EPS
(after giving effect to the pro forma tax savings) in calendar
years 2005 and 2006 by $0.72 and $0.55 per share,
respectively, and (iii) a balance sheet asset/liability
analysis which resulted in an estimated value per common share
of New Valley of $9.47. In connection with the balance sheet
asset/liability analysis that Jefferies presented to the board
at its September 27, 2005 meeting, our board discussed,
among other things, the contemplated issuance of
500,000 shares of Vector common stock to Mr. Lorber in
connection with his being elected as our Chief Executive Officer
effective January 1, 2006, that could be deemed to equate
to an additional cost to us of $0.43 per common share of
New Valley and the following items which were open to subjective
assumptions and included as assets of New Valley in the
Jefferies analysis:
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$22,917,434 for the present value of the New Valley consolidated
tax groups tax loss carryforwards available to an
unaffiliated third party acquiror. Our board discussed its view
that this present value was potentially too high because of the
perceived uncertainty that the tax loss carryforwards could be
fully utilized by such unaffiliated third party acquirer due to,
among other things, the fact that the applicable tax laws and
tax rates could change and the risk that such acquirer would not
have sufficient taxable income in order to fully utilize the
benefit of the tax loss carryforwards during the required period. |
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the value that Jefferies ascribed to New Valleys pending
Westar litigation. Our board discussed its view that this
present value may be too high due to, among other things, the
perceived risk of New Valley obtaining a final judgment or
settlement in its favor, the timing and ability of New Valley
collecting on any such judgment or settlement, and the
probability of New Valley incurring more legal expenses than
previously estimated in order to collect on any such judgment or
settlement. The board noted that an interim decision by the
trial court in this case was rendered in New Valleys favor
on August 19, 2005 regarding the liability of the United
States government, but not the amount of damages for which the
government might be liable. |
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$5,888,889 for the estimated value of the shares of Ladenburg
Thalmann Financial Services Inc., or Ladenburg Thalmann, owned
by New Valley based on the current market price of the shares.
Our board discussed its view that using the current market price
to estimate the current value of the shares was aggressive, and
suggested that the current market price should be discounted due
to, among other things, the relative lack of liquidity in
Ladenburg Thalmann stock given its historically modest trading
volume, the fact that New Valley owns approximately 10% of
Ladenburg Thalmann, making a sale of its shares of Ladenburg
Thalmann on the open market more difficult, and the recent
publicly reported operating results of Ladenburg Thalmann. |
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$4,600,686 for the present value of the note receivable from
Ladenburg Thalmann. Our board discussed its view that this
present value was potentially too high due to, among other
things, Ladenburg Thalmanns recent publicly reported
operating results and the perceived risks of Ladenburg
Thalmanns ability to make timely payment of principal and
interest on the note through December 31, 2008. |
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$10,672,500 valuation for New Valleys interest in Koa
Investors. Our board discussed its view that this value was
higher than the value of Koa Investors determined by Jefferies
using a discounted cash flow valuation methodology. |
In view of the wide variety of factors considered by our board
in evaluating the proposed offer and subsequent merger and the
complexity of these matters, our board did not find it
practicable to, and did not attempt to, quantify, rank or
otherwise assign relative weight to the foregoing items. In
addition, different members of our board may have given
different weight to different items.
Based on the foregoing considerations, our board determined that
the exchange ratio for the proposed exchange offer should
reflect a value for each common share of New Valley of $9.00.
Accordingly, based on the closing price of Vectors stock
for September 26, 2005, the prior trading day, our board
determined that the exchange ratio for the proposed exchange
offer should be set at 0.461 shares of Vector common stock
for each common share of New Valley.
Jefferies then delivered to our board its oral opinion as
investment bankers, subsequently confirmed in writing, to the
effect that, as of September 27, 2005 and based upon and
subject to the various considerations and assumptions set forth
therein, the exchange ratio of 0.461 shares of Vector
common stock to be issued in exchange for each common share of
New Valley was fair, from a financial point of view, to Vector.
Our board then authorized us to propose the offer and subsequent
merger in which New Valleys public stockholders would be
offered 0.461 of a share of Vector common stock in exchange for
each validly tendered common share of New Valley owned by
stockholders of New Valley other than VGR Holding and its
affiliates. Messrs. Howard M. Lorber and Henry C.
Beinstein, two of our directors who are also significant New
Valley stockholders, did not participate in any discussion of
whether to commence the offer or the determination of the
proposed exchange ratio for the offer and subsequent merger.
After the September 27, 2005 board meeting, Bennett S.
LeBow, Vectors Chairman of the Board of Directors and
Chief Executive Officer, delivered a letter to the New Valley
board outlining the offer. Simultaneously, we issued a press
release disclosing to the public the offer and its material
terms. The following is the text of Mr. LeBows letter
to the New Valley board:
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The Board of Directors |
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New Valley Corporation |
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100 S.E. Second Street |
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Miami, Florida 33131 |
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Gentlemen: |
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It has become clear to us that the best interests of our
respective stockholders will be served by Vectors
acquisition of the outstanding shares of New Valley that we do
not already own. We believe that a full combination of our
businesses will yield significant efficiencies and, by fully
integrating New Valley into the Vector family of operations, New
Valley stockholders will be able to share in a greater scope of
opportunities than are available to them as New Valley
stockholders. New Valley shareholders will become owners of a
company with solid cash flow and an attractive dividend yield.
In addition, the transaction will provide New Valley
stockholders with an immediate premium for their shares and a
currency that has substantially greater liquidity than New
Valley has been able to provide. |
28
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As evidenced by Vectors long history with New Valley, we
are not interested in selling our shares in New Valley.
Moreover, if the two companies are combined, we expect important
cost savings will be realized and that the transaction would be
immediately accretive to Vectors cash earnings. |
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Consequently, our Board of Directors has authorized us to make
an exchange offer pursuant to which the stockholders of New
Valley (other than VGR Holding Inc.) will be offered
0.461 shares of common stock of Vector for each outstanding
share of New Valley common stock they own in a transaction
designed to be tax-free. Based on the $19.54 closing price of
Vectors shares on September 26, 2005, our offer
provides a value of approximately $9.00 per share of New
Valley common stock and a 21% premium to the closing price of
New Valley common stock on that date. |
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Vectors offer is being made directly to New Valleys
stockholders. We believe that it will be favorably received by
them due to the substantial premium to New Valleys market
price, the attractiveness of Vector stock and the opportunity
for greater liquidity. New Valley stockholders, through their
ownership of Vector common stock, will continue to participate
in New Valleys business. |
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Our offer will be conditioned on the tender of a sufficient
number of shares of New Valley common stock such that, after the
offer is completed, we will own at least 90% of the outstanding
shares of New Valley common stock and other customary
conditions. Assuming that the conditions to the offer are
satisfied and that the offer is completed, we will then effect a
short form merger of New Valley with a subsidiary of
Vector as soon as practicable thereafter. In this merger, the
remaining New Valley public stockholders will receive the same
consideration as in the exchange offer, except for those
stockholders who choose to exercise their appraisal rights. |
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We intend to file our offering materials with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and commence our exchange offer on or about
October 12, 2005. Vector is not seeking, and as the offer
is being made directly to New Valleys stockholders,
Delaware law does not require approval of the offer from New
Valleys Board of Directors. We, however, encourage you to
consult with your outside counsel as to the obligations of New
Valleys Board of Directors under the U.S. tender
offer rules to advise the stockholders of your recommendation
with respect to our offer. Also, enclosed is a copy of the press
release that we are issuing in connection with the offer. |
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Sincerely, |
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/s/ Bennett S. LeBow |
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Bennett S. LeBow |
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Chairman of the Board of Directors and |
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Chief Executive Officer |
On September 28, 2005, New Valley announced that it was in
receipt of Mr. LeBows letter. Then, on
September 30, 2005, New Valley announced that a special
committee of its board of directors, comprised solely of
independent directors, would evaluate our exchange offer and
retain an independent financial advisor and legal counsel.
On October 12, 2005, at the request of the special
committee of the board of directors of New Valley, we announced
that we were postponing the commencement of our offer and that
we expected to file offering materials with the SEC on or about
October 19, 2005 and to commence our offer shortly
thereafter. On October 18, 2005, we declined a request of
the special committee to further postpone the commencement of
our offer.
29
On October 19, 2005, the special committee announced that
it had engaged The Blackstone Group L.P., or Blackstone, as
financial advisors, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP, or Kirkland
& Ellis, as legal advisor to assist in its evaluation of our
offer. One day prior, on October 18, 2005, representatives
of Blackstone and Kirkland & Ellis sent to Vectors
advisors their information and interview request lists related
to the due diligence review that they intended to undertake on
behalf of the special committee.
On October 20, 2005, we commenced the offer to exchange
0.461 shares of Vector common stock for each common share of New
Valley.
Events After Commencement of Our Offer
Also on October 20, 2005, representatives of Blackstone and
Kirkland & Ellis scheduled a series of meetings with Vector
and New Valley in response to their due diligence requests.
On October 24, 2005, representatives of New Valley,
Blackstone and Kirkland & Ellis held the first of their
informational meetings at New Valleys and Vectors
offices in New York City. At this meeting, representatives of
New Valley gave a presentation on its real estate and real
estate-related holdings.
On October 25, 2005, representatives of Vector, Blackstone
and Kirkland & Ellis held the second of their informational
meetings at New Valleys and Vectors offices in New
York City. At this meeting, representatives of Vector gave a
presentation on its tobacco businesses. In addition, on
October 25, 2005, Vector representatives and its outside
counsel gave a presentation by teleconference to representatives
of Kirkland & Ellis and Blackstone regarding Vectors
litigation related to tobacco products.
On October 27, 2005, on two separate calls, representatives
of Vector and New Valley and its outside counsel gave
presentations by teleconference to representatives of Blackstone
and Kirkland & Ellis regarding tax matters affecting Vector
and New Valley and other litigation affecting New Valley,
respectively.
On November 2, 2005, the special committee filed a
Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9, or
Schedule 14D-9, in which the special committee stated that
it had determined on behalf of the New Valley board of directors
that our original offer to exchange 0.461 shares of Vector
common stock for each common share of New Valley was inadequate
and not in the best interests of the holders of common shares of
New Valley, other than Vector and its affiliates. Accordingly,
the special committee recommended that holders of common shares
of New Valley reject our original offer and not tender their
common shares pursuant to our original offer.
On November 3, 2005, Vector issued the following statement
in response to the recommendation by the special committee of
the New Valley board of directors that New Valley stockholders
not tender into our original offer:
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We are disappointed by the special committees
decision recommending against our premium offer of $9 per share
in Vector Group stock, which we believe represents compelling
value for all New Valley shareholders. We are eager for New
Valley shareholders once they have had the opportunity to
review our exchange offer materials to make their own
determination on the merits of our offer. |
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Due to the 90% tender requirement, it is highly unlikely that
Vector will be able to close this transaction unless all
significant New Valley shareholders tender into the offer. If
the 90% tender requirement is not satisfied, there can be no
second-step short form merger and, consequently, no appraisal
rights. |
On November 4, 2005, representatives of Blackstone spoke
with representatives of Jefferies to exchange perspectives
regarding the offer and subsequent merger.
On November 7, 2005 we announced that we extended the offer
until 5:00 p.m. on December 9, 2005.
30
Also on November 7, 2005, we mailed our proxy statement to
Vector stockholders in connection with their vote to approve the
issuance by Vector of its common stock in the offer and the
subsequent merger.
On November 9, 2005, counsel to plaintiff in the Pill
action, along with plaintiffs financial adviser, made
a financial valuation presentation concerning New Valley to
representatives of Vector, along with counsel to Vector. During
this presentation, plaintiffs counsel and financial
advisor expressed, among other things, their view that
Jefferies discounted cash flow analysis was too low
because it should not have used the amount of $100 - $110
million as the terminal value of Koa Investors subject to
discount to present value; that the present value of Koa
Investors is approximately $105 million; and that the use of
$105 million as the present value for Koa Investors would have
produced a higher range of values.
During the week of November 7, 2005, representatives of
Vector contacted representatives of a limited group of large New
Valley stockholders to discuss their views regarding an amended
exchange ratio for the offer. On November 9, 2005, we
delivered a draft agreement to tender to this limited group of
New Valley stockholders. Also on November 9, 2005,
representatives from Jefferies informed representatives from
Blackstone that Vector was negotiating with this limited group
of large New Valley stockholders and was considering increasing
the exchange ratio. Over the next several days, representatives
of Vector and some of these large stockholders discussed the
terms of the agreement to tender. Thereafter, on
November 15, 2005, we delivered a final form agreement to
tender to this limited group of large New Valley stockholders.
This agreement included a proposed increased exchange ratio of
0.54, which was the highest exchange ratio that Vector
management would be prepared to recommend to the Vector board of
directors. These large New Valley stockholders were informed
that if a sufficient number of them indicated a willingness to
enter into the agreement to tender based on the proposed
exchange ratio of 0.54 by sending their signatures to Vector,
Vector management would be in a position to recommend this
increased exchange ratio to the Vector board of directors.
Subsequently, representatives from Jefferies informed
representatives from Blackstone of these proposed agreements to
tender and the conditions under which Vectors management
would be prepared to recommend to Vectors board that the
exchange ratio be increased to 0.54.
Vector Boards November 16, 2005 Decision to
Increase the Exchange Ratio
Our board of directors held a meeting on November 16, 2005
to determine whether to increase the exchange ratio for the
offer and the subsequent merger. In evaluating this decision,
the board considered many factors, including those previously
considered at its September 27, 2005 meeting. The board
reconfirmed its belief discussed at its September 27, 2005
meeting that greater value could be achieved for both Vector and
New Valley stockholders by combining Vectors and New
Valleys business operations. The board also reconfirmed
its belief that the offer and subsequent merger would yield
significant efficiencies and, by fully integrating New Valley
into Vector, New Valley stockholders would be able to share in a
greater scope of opportunities than are available to them solely
as New Valley stockholders.
In evaluating its decision whether to pursue the increased offer
and subsequent merger, our board considered many factors that
were relevant to its decision, including (i) the current
market prices and trading volumes of Vector common stock and New
Valley common shares relative to their respective recent trading
histories, (ii) the fact that as of the board meeting
several large stockholders of New Valley, who in the aggregate
owned approximately 27% of the outstanding New Valley common
shares, had indicated their willingness to enter into agreements
to tender their common shares of New Valley into our offer in
exchange for our agreement to increase the exchange ratio to
0.54 for all stockholders of New Valley, (iii) the fact
that the special committee had determined that our original
exchange offer of 0.461 was inadequate, and (iv) the
updated financial analyses of New Valley prepared by Jefferies,
which were presented to the board and which are summarized below
under the caption Opinion of Jefferies.
Jefferies financial analyses of New Valley and the effects
of a consummated transaction that were presented to the board
consisted of (i) a discounted cash flow analysis of New
Valley which resulted in an estimated value range per share of
New Valley common shares of $9.38 to $10.43 per share,
(ii) an accretion and dilution analysis which demonstrated
that a consummated transaction would be accretive to
Vectors estimated EPS (after giving
31
effect to the pro forma tax savings) in calendar years 2005 and
2006 by $0.70 and $0.53 per share, respectively, (iii) a
balance sheet asset/liability analysis which resulted in an
estimated value per common share of New Valley of $9.85, and
(iv) as part of Jefferies analyses, consideration by
Jefferies of an additional estimated $2.02 per share of
incremental value that our management expected to realize from
the offer and subsequent merger as compared to a third party
purchaser. In connection with the balance sheet asset/liability
analysis that Jefferies presented to the board, our board
discussed, among other things, the issuance of 500,000
restricted shares of Vector common stock on September 27,
2005 and the contemplated issuance of an additional 78,570
restricted shares of Vector common stock to Mr. Lorber on
November 16, 2005, in connection with his being elected as our
Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2006, that
could be deemed to equate to an additional cost to us of $0.45
per common share of New Valley as well as the same items
described under Vector Boards
September 27, 2005 Decision to Commence the Offer
which were open to subjective assumptions and included as assets
of New Valley in the Jefferies analysis. The board also
noted that the amounts of these items included in the
Jefferies balance sheet asset/liability analysis had been
updated by Jefferies. These items included the present value of
the New Valley consolidated tax groups tax loss
carryforwards available to an unaffiliated third party acquiror,
the value that Jefferies ascribed to New Valleys pending
Westar litigation, the estimated value of the shares of
Ladenburg Thalmann owned by New Valley based on the current
market price of such shares, the present value of the note
receivable from Ladenburg Thalmann and the valuation for New
Valleys interest in Koa Investors.
Based on the foregoing considerations, our board determined that
the exchange ratio for the increased exchange offer should be
0.54 shares of Vector common stock for each New Valley common
share, reflecting a value for each New Valley common share of
$10.82 based on the closing price of Vectors common stock
on November 16, 2005.
Jefferies then delivered to our board its oral opinion as
investment bankers, subsequently confirmed in writing, to the
effect that, as of such date and based upon and subject to the
various considerations and assumptions set forth therein, the
exchange ratio of 0.54 shares of Vector common stock to be
issued in exchange for each common share of New Valley was fair,
from a financial point of view, to Vector. Please see
Opinion of Jefferies beginning on page 33 for
further information relating to this topic.
As occurred during the September 27, 2005 board meeting,
neither Mr. Lorber nor Mr. Beinstein, two of our
directors who are also significant New Valley stockholders,
participated in this board discussion to increase the exchange
ratio for the offer and subsequent merger.
Also on November 16, 2005 and prior to our public
announcement of the increased exchange offer, counsel for the
special committee contacted counsel for Vector in order to
request that Vector eliminate certain conditions to our offer
and modify other remaining conditions to our offer that the
special committee had determined were potentially harmful to New
Valley stockholders.
Thereafter, on November 16, 2005, we announced the revised
exchange ratio of 0.54 shares of Vector common stock for each
New Valley common share.
On November 17, 2005, counsel to Vector delivered proposed
amendments of the original conditions to our offer to the
special committees counsel in response to the request on
November 16, 2005. These proposed amendments have been
included in this prospectus as the current conditions to our
offer. See The Offer Conditions to the
Offer beginning on page 64. Over the next several days,
counsel to Vector and counsel to the special committee discussed
procedures to enable the special committee to make a
determination regarding our revised exchange ratio of 0.54. On
November 21, 2005, Messrs. LeBow and Lampen, on behalf
of Vector, and Mr. Burns, on behalf of the special
committee, also discussed briefly these proposed procedures.
Later on November 21, 2005, we delivered to the special
committee a substantially complete copy of this Prospectus.
On November 22, 2005, the special committee issued a press
release in which the special committee stated that it had
determined on behalf of the New Valley board of directors that
our revised offer at an exchange ratio of 0.54 was fair to the
holders of common shares of New Valley, other than Vector and its
32
affiliates, and will recommend that holders of common shares of
New Valley tender their common shares pursuant to our revised
offer.
Opinion of Jefferies
Vector engaged Jefferies pursuant to an engagement letter dated
as of September 27, 2005 to serve as its financial advisor
in connection with the offer. On November 16, 2005,
Jefferies rendered to Vectors board its opinion as
investment bankers to the effect that, as of that date and based
upon and subject to the various considerations and assumptions
set forth therein, the revised exchange ratio of 0.54 shares of
Vector common stock for each outstanding common share of New
Valley to be offered by VGR Holding in the offer was fair, from
a financial point of view, to Vector.
The full text of the Jefferies opinion delivered to the Vector
board, which sets forth the assumptions made, matters considered
and limitations on the scope of review undertaken by Jefferies
in rendering its opinion, is attached hereto as Annex D.
Vector and Vectors board encourage Vector stockholders to
read the Jefferies opinion carefully and in its entirety. The
summary of the Jefferies opinion in this Prospectus is qualified
in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Jefferies
opinion. The Jefferies opinion was provided to Vectors
board in connection with its consideration of the offer, and
therefore addresses only the fairness to Vector, from a
financial point of view and as of the date of the Jefferies
opinion, of the exchange ratio to be offered by VGR Holding in
the offer. The Jefferies opinion does not (1) address the
fairness of the exchange ratio to the New Valley stockholders or
any other aspect of the offer, or (2) constitute a
recommendation as to (i) how any Vector stockholder should
vote on the issuance of shares of Vector common stock or any
other matter relevant to the offer, or (ii) whether any New
Valley stockholder should tender their common shares of New
Valley in the offer. Jefferies did not establish the exchange
ratio, which was determined by Vectors board.
In connection with its opinion, Jefferies, among other things,:
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reviewed Vectors and New Valleys operations and
prospects; |
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reviewed certain financial and other information about Vector
and New Valley that was publicly available; |
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reviewed information furnished by Vectors management,
including certain internal financial analyses, financial
forecasts with respect to Vector and New Valley, budgets,
reports and other information; |
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based on information provided to Jefferies by Vectors
management and outside advisors concerning the tax assets of New
Valley and the treatment of New Valleys net operating
losses after giving effect to the short form merger upon
completion of the offer, considered the value of New
Valleys tax assets to Vector after giving effect to the
offer and the subsequent merger; |
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considered written waivers from certain officers of New Valley
waiving rights to severance and other benefits to which they
would otherwise be entitled arising from completion of the short
form merger upon completion of the offer; |
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held discussions with various members of Vectors
management concerning historical and current operations,
financial conditions and prospects, including recent financial
performance; |
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reviewed the share trading price history of Vector and New
Valley for a period Jefferies deemed appropriate; |
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reviewed the valuation of the New Valley implied by the exchange
ratio; |
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reviewed the premiums paid in selected acquisition transactions; |
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prepared a discounted cash flow analysis of New Valley on a
stand-alone basis; and |
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reviewed an analysis of the combined entity and the resulting
earnings accretion/dilution. |
In addition, Jefferies conducted such other quantitative
reviews, analyses and inquiries relating to Vector and New
Valley as Jefferies considered appropriate in rendering its
opinion. Jefferies noted that it
33
did not have the opportunity to review any non-public
information of or financial forecasts provided by New Valley
other than such information and financial forecasts provided to
Jefferies by Vector.
In its review and analysis and in rendering its opinion,
Jefferies assumed and relied upon, but has not assumed any
responsibility to independently investigate or verify, the
accuracy, completeness and fair presentation of all financial
and other information that was provided to Jefferies by Vector
or that was publicly available (including, without limitation,
the information described in the bullet points above), or that
was otherwise reviewed by Jefferies. Jefferies opinion was
expressly conditioned upon such information, whether written or
oral, being complete, accurate and fair in all respects material
to its analysis.
With respect to the financial forecasts provided to and examined
by Jefferies, Jefferies noted that projecting future results of
any company is inherently subject to uncertainty. Vector
informed Jefferies, however, and Jefferies assumed, that such
financial forecasts were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting
the best currently available estimates and good faith judgments
of Vectors management as to the future performance of
Vector and New Valley, respectively. Jefferies expressed no
opinion as to Vectors or New Valleys financial
forecasts or the assumptions on which they were made. In
addition, in rendering its opinion Jefferies assumed that each
of Vector and New Valley will perform in accordance with such
financial forecasts for all periods specified therein. Although
such financial forecasts did not form the principal basis for
Jefferies opinion, but rather constituted one of many
items that it employed, changes to such financial forecasts
could affect its opinion.
In its review, Jefferies did not obtain any independent
evaluation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities of, nor did
it conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of any of the
assets of, Vector or New Valley, nor was Jefferies furnished
with any such evaluations or appraisals or reports of such
physical inspections, nor did Jefferies assume any
responsibility to obtain any such evaluations, appraisals or
inspections. Jefferies opinion was based on economic,
monetary, regulatory, market and other conditions existing and
which could be evaluated as of the date thereof. Jefferies
expressly disclaimed any undertaking or obligation to advise any
person of any change in any fact or matter affecting its opinion
of which Jefferies became aware after the date of its opinion.
Jefferies made no independent investigation of any legal or
accounting matters affecting Vector or New Valley, and Jefferies
assumed the correctness in all respects material to its analysis
of all legal and accounting advice given to Vector and
Vectors board, including, without limitation, advice as to
the legal, accounting and tax consequences (including, but not
limited to, the treatment of New Valleys net operating
losses after giving effect to the subsequent merger upon
completion of the offer) of the terms of the offer to Vector.
Jefferies opinion was for the use and benefit of
Vectors board in its consideration of the offer, and its
opinion did not address the relative merits of the offer and
subsequent merger as compared to any alternative transactions
that might be available to Vector, nor did it address the
underlying business decision by Vector to engage in the offer.
Jefferies expressed no opinion as to the price at which
Vectors common stock will trade at any future time.
In preparing its opinion, Jefferies performed a variety of
financial and comparative analyses. The preparation of a
fairness opinion is a complex process involving various
determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant
quantitative and qualitative methods of financial analysis and
the applications of those methods to the particular
circumstances and, therefore, is not necessarily susceptible to
partial analysis or summary description. Jefferies believes that
its analyses must be considered as a whole. Considering any
portion of its analyses and of the factors considered by it,
without considering all analyses and factors, could create a
misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying the
conclusion expressed in its opinion.
In addition, Jefferies may have given various analyses more or
less weight than other analyses, and may have deemed various
assumptions more or less probable than other assumptions, so
that the range of valuation resulting from any particular
analysis described below should not be taken to be
Jefferies view of Vectors or New Valleys
actual value. Accordingly, the conclusions reached by Jefferies
are based on all
34
analyses and factors taken as a whole and also on the
application of Jefferies own experience and judgment.
In performing its analyses, Jefferies made numerous assumptions
with respect to industry performance, general business and
economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond
Vectors and Jefferies control. The analyses
performed by Jefferies are not necessarily indicative of actual
values or actual future results, which may be significantly more
or less favorable than suggested by such analyses. In addition,
analyses relating to the value of businesses or assets do not
purport to be appraisals or to necessarily reflect the prices at
which businesses or assets may actually be sold and are
inherently subject to uncertainty. The analyses performed were
prepared solely as part of Jefferies analysis of the
fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio
and were provided to Vectors board in connection with the
delivery of Jefferies opinion.
The following is a summary of the material financial and
comparative analyses performed by Jefferies that was presented
to Vectors board on November 16, 2005 in connection
with the delivery of its opinion dated as of that date. The
financial analyses summarized below include information
presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand
Jefferies financial analyses, the tables must be read
together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not
constitute a complete description of the financial analyses.
Considering the data described below without considering the
full narrative description of the financial analyses, including
the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could
create a misleading or incomplete view of Jefferies
financial analyses.
Transaction Overview. Based upon the closing price per
share of Vectors common stock on November 15, 2005 of
$19.97 and an exchange ratio of 0.54 shares of
Vectors common stock to be issued in exchange for each
issued and outstanding common share of New Valley that VGR
Holding does not already own, Jefferies noted that the implied
value of the consideration to be issued in the offer per common
share of New Valley was $10.78 per share, which is referred
to as the Implied Share Purchase Price. Based upon
the Implied Share Purchase Price of $10.78 and approximately
22.466 million common shares of New Valley outstanding on a
fully diluted basis, Jefferies also noted that the implied
aggregate equity value of New Valley was approximately
$242.3 million.
Jefferies compared the Implied Share Purchase Price of $10.78 to
the daily closing price for New Valley common shares on
September 27, 2005, the date on which Vector originally
announced its intention to commence the exchange offer, and over
various periods ending on that date and noted the following
implied offer premiums:
Implied Offer Premiums
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Premium Implied by | |
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New Valley Common Shares | |
|
Implied Share Purchase | |
Time Period Ending September 26, 2005 |
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Closing Price | |
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Price of $10.78 | |
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| |
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| |
September 27, 2005
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$ |
7.45 |
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44.7 |
% |
1-Day Prior
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$ |
7.45 |
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44.7 |
% |
1-Week Prior
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$ |
7.50 |
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43.8 |
% |
4-Weeks Prior
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$ |
7.50 |
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43.8 |
% |
6-Months Prior
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$ |
6.35 |
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|
|
69.8 |
% |
1-Year Prior
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$ |
4.84 |
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|
|
122.8 |
% |
2-Years Prior
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|
$ |
4.11 |
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|
162.4 |
% |
52-Week High
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|
$ |
7.63 |
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41.3 |
% |
52-Week Low
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|
$ |
4.81 |
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124.2 |
% |
Historical Trading Analysis. Jefferies reviewed the share
price trading history of Vectors common stock and New
Valleys common shares for the one-year period ending
November 15, 2005 on a stand-alone basis. Jefferies also
reviewed the closing share price and the respective trading
volumes for New Valleys common shares for the one-year
period ending November 15, 2005. In addition, Jefferies
reviewed the implied exchange ratio based on the closing trading
price of Vector common stock and the common shares of New Valley
for the one-year period ending November 15, 2005.
35
Premiums Paid Analysis. Using publicly available
information, Jefferies analyzed the premiums offered in public
merger and acquisition transactions completed since January 2001
in which majority shareholders acquired the remaining minority
interest in the company with transaction values between
$100 million and $500 million. For these transactions,
Jefferies calculated the average premium represented by the
offer price over the target companys share price for the
one day, one week and four week periods prior to the
transactions announcement and compared them to the
proposed purchase price premium relative to the closing price of
New Valleys common shares for the one-day, one-week and
four-week period prior to September 27, 2005. This analysis
indicated the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Period Prior to September 27, 2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
One Day | |
|
One Week | |
|
Four Weeks | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
New Valley price per share during period
|
|
$ |
7.45 |
|
|
$ |
7.50 |
|
|
$ |
7.50 |
|
Proposed purchase price per share
|
|
$ |
10.78 |
|
|
$ |
10.78 |
|
|
$ |
10.78 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implied premium
|
|
|
44.7 |
% |
|
|
43.8 |
% |
|
|
43.8 |
% |
Premiums paid in other public transactions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Median
|
|
|
24.1 |
% |
|
|
27.0 |
% |
|
|
27.1 |
% |
High
|
|
|
96.4 |
% |
|
|
114.6 |
% |
|
|
118.8 |
% |
Low
|
|
|
2.7 |
% |
|
|
1.7 |
% |
|
|
-16.1 |
% |
Balance Sheet Asset/Liability Analysis. Jefferies
performed an analysis of the assets and liabilities set forth on
the balance sheet of New Valley, in which it compared the book
value of the assets and liabilities on New Valleys balance
sheet as of September 30, 2005 to the estimated value of
such assets
36
and liabilities as of November 15, 2005. The comparison
balance sheet analysis included a valuation of the following
assets and liabilities:
New Valley Balance Sheet
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book Value | |
|
Estimated Value | |
|
|
as of | |
|
as of | |
|
|
9/30/2005 | |
|
11/15/2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
ASSETS |
Cash and Marketable Securities
|
|
$ |
95,926,998 |
|
|
$ |
95,750,000 |
|
Investment Securities Available for Sale
|
|
|
12,489,378 |
|
|
|
11,931,093 |
|
Other Current Assets
|
|
|
170,000 |
|
|
|
170,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Assets
|
|
|
108,586,376 |
|
|
|
107,851,093 |
|
Investments in Real Estate:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
St. Regis Hotel
|
|
|
6,263,000 |
|
|
|
6,263,000 |
|
|
Holiday Isle
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,500,000 |
|
|
Koa Hotel
|
|
|
(600,000 |
) |
|
|
10,672,500 |
|
|
Douglas Elliman
|
|
|
27,178,183 |
|
|
|
59,148,128 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Investments in Real Estate
|
|
|
32,841,183 |
|
|
|
78,583,628 |
|
|
Long-Term Investments and Assets, Net
|
|
|
2,536,567 |
|
|
|
15,130,543 |
|
Other Assets
|
|
|
1,109,000 |
|
|
|
1,109,000 |
|
Pending Litigation (Westar)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,241,709 |
|
Proceeds from Option Exercises
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,004,348 |
|
Note Receivable from Ladenburg Thalmann
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,742,984 |
|
Deferred Tax Assets Unaffiliated 3rd Party Value
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,973,930 |
** |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Asset Value
|
|
$ |
145,073,126 |
|
|
$ |
240,637,234 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES |
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
|
|
|
2,856,000 |
|
|
|
2,856,000 |
|
Prepetition Claims
|
|
|
300,000 |
|
|
|
300,000 |
|
Income Taxes
|
|
|
838,000 |
|
|
|
838,000 |
|
Severance
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,819,999 |
*/** |
Long-Term Liabilities
|
|
|
2,501,000 |
|
|
|
2,501,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities
|
|
$ |
6,495,000 |
|
|
$ |
19,314,999 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
New Valley Equity Value
|
|
$ |
138,578,126 |
|
|
$ |
221,322,235 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Equity Value
|
|
$ |
145,073,126 |
|
|
$ |
240,637,234 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares Outstanding
|
|
|
22,260,607 |
|
|
|
22,465,940 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implied New Valley Estimated Value Per Share
|
|
$ |
6.23 |
|
|
$ |
9.85 |
** |
Implied Exchange Ratio
|
|
|
0.312 |
|
|
|
0.493 |
|
Implied New Valley Acquisition Price Per Share |
|
$ |
10.78 |
|
Exchange Ratio |
|
|
0.540 |
|
|
|
* |
Triggered upon a change of control and under other circumstances. |
|
|
** |
As discussed below, Jefferies also considered the additional
estimated $2.02 per share of incremental value expected to be
realized by Vector in the offer based on the value of New
Valleys deferred tax |
37
|
|
|
asset to Vector as opposed to a third party purchaser and
waivers by certain members of New Valleys senior
management of any rights to severance and other benefits. |
For purposes of the balance sheet analysis, Jefferies considered
or performed the following analyses with respect to the assets
and liabilities of New Valley:
|
|
|
|
|
For purposes of analyzing New Valleys marketable
securities, the book value of such securities as of
September 30, 2005 was compared to the closing market
trading price of the securities on November 15, 2005 in
order to determine the estimated value of the securities. One of
New Valleys marketable securities is Ladenburg Thalmann,
of which New Valley owns 11.1 million shares at a market
price of $0.51 per share as of November 15, 2005.
Jefferies noted that Ladenburg Thalmann recently completed a
$10.0 million private placement of its common stock at a
price of $0.45 per share. In addition, Jefferies noted that
the price at which New Valley would be able to sell its shares
in the open market based on current trading volumes and market
conditions could be lower than the current market price of the
stock or the price at which the stock was sold in the recent
private placement. |
|
|
|
The analysis of the estimated valuation of New Valleys
interest in Koa Investors, LLC, or Koa Investors, was based on
an estimated sale valuation of $105.0 million for the Koa
Investors property, less the repayment of $82.0 million of
outstanding indebtedness and an estimated $105,000 in transfer
taxes, $1.05 million in sales commission and $500,000 in
legal fees. |
|
|
|
The analysis of the estimated valuation of New Valleys
interest in Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC was based on a recent
offer by Prudential Real Estate Financial Services to sell its
20.59% interest in Douglas Elliman Realty for an estimated
purchase price of $20.4 million at September 30, 2005
and included the value of an outstanding $9.5 million loan
from New Valley to Douglas Elliman Realty. |
|
|
|
The estimated value of New Valleys existing long-term
investments in Steel Partners, Ukraine Fund, 411Web.com, CIM
Urban Real Estate Fund, L.P. and Amroc was based on information
provided by Vectors management, which amounts were
compared to the book value of such long-term investments on New
Valleys balance sheet as of September 30, 2005. |
|
|
|
For purposes of analyzing the estimated value of the pending
Westar litigation, a present value calculation was
performed on the $15.0 million of settlement proceeds that
Vectors management estimated would be received by New
Valley in connection with the litigation. The $15.0 million
of estimated settlement proceeds was reduced by Vector
managements estimates of the cost of legal expenses to be
incurred through December 31, 2008. The present value
calculation was performed using a discount rate of 30%, which
was based on Jefferies assessment of potential risks
associated with the actual receipt by New Valley of the
settlement proceeds. |
|
|
|
For purposes of analyzing the estimated value of the
$6.4 million note receivable from Ladenburg Thalmann, which
note Vectors management estimates will be repaid to
New Valley in installments through the fiscal year ending
December 31, 2008, a present value calculation was
performed using a discount rate of 25%, which was based on
Jefferies assessment of the potential risks associated
with the actual receipt by New Valley of payments of interest
and principal on the note receivable. |
|
|
|
The estimated present value of New Valleys deferred tax
assets, including the treatment of New Valleys
$137.5 million in net operating losses, to Vector was
$58.5 million compared to $26.0 million, which was the
estimated present value to an independent third party of the
cumulative tax benefits of $62.4 million estimated to be
utilized between 2006 and 2020, using a discount rate of 12%. |
|
|
|
For purposes of this analysis, the estimated costs to be
incurred by New Valley under its management severance
arrangements with Messrs. LeBow, Lorber, Lampen and J.
Bryant Kirkland III, in the event of an acquisition by a
third party, were calculated based on the |
38
|
|
|
|
|
agreements currently in place with such executive officers of
New Valley under the assumption that these individuals would not
be retained by the acquiring company. |
Based on the foregoing balance sheet analysis, the implied
equity value per common share of New Valley was estimated at
$9.85 as of November 15, 2005, compared to the Implied
Share Purchase Price of $10.78 per common share of New
Valley. In performing this analysis, Jefferies also considered
the fact that Vectors management expects to be able to
realize additional value in connection with its acquisition of
the remaining common shares of New Valley that it does not
already own, as compared to the estimated value of New
Valleys assets and liabilities to an independent third
party as estimated above. In particular, Jefferies considered
that (i) the value of New Valleys deferred tax asset
was worth approximately $32.5 million more to Vector than
to a third party purchaser, resulting in an incremental value to
Vector of $1.45 per share, and (ii) certain members of New
Valleys senior management had agreed to waive any rights
to severance payments and other benefits of approximately
$12.8 million in connection with the offer, resulting in an
incremental value to Vector of $0.57 per share, and when taken
together, a total incremental value to Vector of $2.02 per share.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. Jefferies also performed a
discounted cash flow analysis of New Valley by performing a
discounted cash flow analysis of New Valleys interest in
Douglas Elliman Realty and Koa Investors, and then adding the
market value of New Valleys non-operating assets and
subtracting New Valleys non-operating liabilities. The
purpose of the discounted cash flow analysis was to establish a
range for the potential per share equity value of New Valley.
First, Jefferies performed a discounted cash flow analysis of
the after-tax free cash flows of Douglas Elliman Realty using
projections provided by Vectors management for the three
months ended December 31, 2005 and the years ending
December 31, 2006 through 2010. Jefferies discounted the
projected, after-tax free cash flows through December 31,
2010 using discount rates ranging from 9.5% to 11.5%, which
discount rates were based upon Douglas Elliman Realtys
weighted average cost of capital as measured by Jefferies.
Jefferies then added to the present value of the after-tax free
cash flows the terminal value of Douglas Elliman Realty at
December 31, 2010, discounted back at the same discount
rate to represent a present value. The terminal value was
computed by multiplying Douglas Elliman Realtys earnings
before interest, taxes and depreciation and amortization
(EBITDA) by a terminal EBITDA multiple for Douglas
Elliman Realty ranging from 3.5x to 4.5x. Jefferies then
aggregated (i) the present value of the after-tax free cash
flows over the applicable projection period with (ii) the
present value of the terminal value. The aggregate present value
of these items represented the enterprise value of Douglas
Elliman Realty. To determine the implied total equity value of
Douglas Elliman Realty, Jefferies subtracted Douglas Elliman
Realtys debt from, and added back its net working capital
to, the implied enterprise value for Douglas Elliman Realty.
This total equity value was multiplied by New Valleys 50%
ownership stake in Douglas Elliman Realty, and the
$9.5 million loan payable by Douglas Elliman Realty to New
Valley was added to this amount to arrive at the estimated value
of New Valleys ownership stake in Douglas Elliman Realty.
Based on the discounted cash flow analysis for Douglas Elliman
Realty described above, the analysis implied an equity valuation
range of $59.1 million to $76.3 million for New
Valleys 50% interest in Douglas Elliman Realty.
Next, Jefferies performed a discounted cash flow analysis of the
after-tax free cash flows of Koa Investors using projections
provided by Vectors management for the years ending
December 31, 2006 through 2010. Jefferies discounted the
projected, after-tax free cash flows through December 31,
2010 using discount rates ranging from 7% to 9%, which discount
rates were based upon Koa Investors weighted average cost
of capital as measured by Jefferies. Jefferies then added to the
present value of the after-tax free cash flows the terminal
value of Koa Investors at December 31, 2010, discounted
back at the same discount rate to represent a present value. The
terminal value was estimated to be a range of sale valuations
for the business ranging from proceeds of $100.0 million to
$110.0 million. Jefferies aggregated (i) the present
value of the after-tax free cash flows over the applicable
projection period with (ii) the present value of the
terminal value. The aggregate present value of these items
represented the enterprise value of Koa Investors. To determine
the implied total equity value of Koa Investors, Jefferies
subtracted Koa Investors debt from the implied enterprise value
for Koa Investors and then multiplied this total
39
equity value by New Valleys ownership stake in Koa
Investors. Based on the discounted cash flow analysis for Koa
Investors described above, the analysis implied an equity
valuation range of $0.0 million to $6.6 million for
New Valleys interest in Koa Investors.
Finally, Jefferies aggregated the low, medium and high equity
valuation ranges described in the discounted cash flow analyses
of Douglas Elliman Realty and Koa Investors set forth above, and
added the market value of the non-operating assets of New Valley
and subtracted the non-operating liabilities of New Valley to
determine a total implied equity value for New Valley. This
discounted cash flow analysis implied an equity value range per
share of $9.38 to $10.43 for New Valley, compared to the Implied
Share Purchase Price of $10.78 per share based on an
exchange ratio of 0.540 shares of Vectors common
stock to be issued in exchange for each outstanding common share
of New Valley. In performing this analysis, Jefferies also
considered the additional estimated $2.02 per share of
incremental value (calculated as summarized above) that
Vectors management expects to be able to realize in
connection with its acquisition of the remaining outstanding
common shares of New Valley that it does not already own.
|
|
|
Pro Forma Financial Analysis |
Jefferies also analyzed the potential pro forma financial effect
of the offer and the subsequent merger on Vectors
estimated earnings per share, or EPS, for calendar years 2005
and 2006 after giving effect to the potential cost savings that
could result from the offer and the subsequent merger. Estimated
data for Vector and New Valley, including estimates of potential
cost savings that could result from the offer and the subsequent
merger, were based on Vector managements estimates. Based
on the exchange ratio, this analysis suggested that the offer
and the subsequent merger could be accretive to Vectors
estimated EPS (after giving effect to the pro forma tax savings)
in calendar years 2005 and 2006. The actual results achieved by
the combined company may vary from projected results and the
variations may be material.
Jefferies opinion was one of many factors taken into
consideration by the Vector board in making its determination to
approve the exchange ratio and to commence the offer and should
not be considered determinative of the views of the Vector board
or Vectors management with respect to the exchange ratio
or the offer.
Jefferies was selected by the Vector board based on
Jefferies qualifications, expertise and reputation.
Jefferies is an internationally recognized investment banking
and advisory firm. Jefferies, as part of its investment banking
business, is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses
and securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions,
negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary
distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements, financial restructurings and other financial
services.
In the ordinary course of business, Jefferies and its affiliates
may trade or hold such securities of Vector or New Valley for
its own account and for the accounts of its customers and,
accordingly, may at any time hold long or short positions in
those securities. Jefferies or its affiliates have also, in the
past, provided financial advisory services to Vector and certain
stockholders of Vector and may continue to do so, and have
received, and may receive, customary fees for such services. In
addition, Jefferies or its affiliates currently are and have, in
the past, provided financial advisory services to certain
stockholders of New Valley and may continue to do so, and will
receive, have received, and may receive, customary fees for such
services. In connection with Vectors convertible note
offering in November 2004, the purchasers of the notes required
Mr. LeBow to enter into an agreement granting Jefferies, as
placement agent for such offering, the right, in its sole
discretion, to borrow up to 3,646,518 shares of Vector common
stock from Mr. LeBow or an entity affiliated with him
during a 30-month period, subject to extension under various
conditions, and that he agree not to dispose of such shares
during this period, subject to limited exceptions. In addition,
in connection with Vectors convertible note offering in
April 2005, Jefferies, as initial purchaser in such offering,
entered into a similar arrangement through May 2007 with
Mr. Lorber with respect to 315,000 shares of Vector common
stock.
During the past two years prior to the commencement of the
offer, Vector has paid to Jefferies fees in the amount of
approximately $3.9 million. In addition, pursuant to an
engagement letter between Vector
40
and Jefferies dated as of September 27, 2005, Vector has
agreed to pay Jefferies $100,000 upon delivery of its opinion
and previously agreed to pay Jefferies $325,000 for its services
in connection with the offer. Jefferies will also be reimbursed
for reasonable expenses incurred, including the fees and
disbursements of Jefferies counsel. Vector has agreed to
indemnify Jefferies against liabilities arising out of or in
connection with the services rendered or to be rendered by it
under its engagement.
Agreements to Tender
On November 16, 2005, we entered into agreements with
several large stockholders of New Valley, who in the aggregate
beneficially owned 6,287,275 New Valley common shares,
representing approximately 28.2% of the outstanding New Valley
common shares. Pursuant to these agreements, we agreed to
increase the exchange ratio to 0.54 for all stockholders of New
Valley and these stockholders agreed to, among other things,
tender their common shares of New Valley into our offer for no
additional consideration. These common shares, when aggregated
with the approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of
New Valley currently owned by Vector, represent approximately
85.9% of New Valleys outstanding common shares that are
committed to the offer. These agreements to tender will
terminate, among other things, upon mutual written consent of
the parties or the termination of our offer without any New
Valley common shares being accepted for exchange or if our offer
has not been completed by December 14, 2005.
ADDITIONAL FACTORS FOR CONSIDERATION BY
NEW VALLEY STOCKHOLDERS
In deciding whether or not to tender your common shares of New
Valley, you should consider the factors set forth under
Risk Factors beginning on page 10 and the other
factors set forth in this Prospectus. While we believe the offer
should be attractive to you as a New Valley stockholder, you
should also consider the following matters:
|
|
|
|
|
As a stockholder of Vector, your interest in the performance and
prospects of New Valley would only be indirect and in proportion
to your share ownership in Vector. You therefore may not realize
the same financial benefits of future appreciation in the value
of New Valley, if any, that you may realize if the offer and the
subsequent merger were not completed and you remain a New Valley
stockholder. |
|
|
|
An investment in a company of New Valleys size may be
associated with greater risk and a greater potential for gain
than an investment in a much larger company like Vector. |
|
|
|
As this offer has been made directly to New Valley stockholders
by means of an exchange offer, Vector controls the conditions,
timing and price of the offer, and has reserved the right to
unilaterally modify any of the terms of the offer, except that
we will not modify or waive the Registration Statement
effectiveness condition, the Vector stockholder approval
condition, the listing condition, and the minimum tender
condition. |
|
|
|
The exchange ratio reflects a value per common share of New
Valley above the closing price of New Valley common shares on
September 27, 2005 of $7.45 and above the highest closing
price at which common shares of New Valley have closed before
the announcement of the original offer, $7.63, which was reached
on August 25, 2005. However, this value is below the
closing price of New Valley common shares of $10.95 on November
21, 2005, the highest price at which common shares of New Valley
have closed following the announcement of our offer. |
In addition to the foregoing, we are aware that on or about
September 29, 2005, an individual stockholder of New Valley
filed a complaint in the Delaware Court of Chancery purporting
to commence a class action lawsuit against Vector, New Valley,
and each of the individual directors of New Valley. On or about
October 28, 2005, a separate action was filed in the
Delaware Court of Chancery purporting to commence a class action
lawsuit against Vector, New Valley and each of the individual
directors of New Valley. In general, the complaints allege,
among other things: (1) breaches of fiduciary duty by
Vector,
41
New Valley and the members of New Valleys board in
connection with the offer and the subsequent merger;
(2) that the consideration Vector is offering is
inadequate; and (3) that Vector is acting to further its
own interests at the expense of the holders of New Valleys
common shares. Among other remedies, the complaints seek to
enjoin the offer and subsequent merger or, alternatively,
damages in an unspecified amount and rescission in the event the
subsequent merger occurs. On November 9, 2005, the Delaware
Court of Chancery entered an order of consolidation providing
that the two Delaware class action lawsuits be consolidated for
all purposes. On November 15, 2005, the Delaware Chancery
Court entered an order certifying a class action comprised of
all persons who owned common shares of New Valley on
October 20, 2005. On November 16, 2005, Vector and the
plaintiff class in the Delaware consolidated class action
reached an agreement to resolve the litigation. This agreement
has been memorialized in a memorandum of understanding which all
of the parties to the Delaware consolidated class action have
signed.
On or about September 29, 2005, a separate action was filed
against the same defendants in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh
Judicial Circuit in and for Miami-Dade County, Florida. This
Florida action alleges substantially similar claims and seeks
substantially similar remedies to the Delaware consolidated
class action. Vector believes that this lawsuit is without merit
and will defend against this lawsuit. See Certain Legal
Matters and Regulatory Approvals Stockholder
Litigation beginning on page 67 for a more detailed
discussion of these lawsuits.
FINANCIAL FORECASTS
New Valley Forecasts
It is our understanding that New Valley does not as a matter of
course make public any projections as to future performance,
earnings or net asset value, and the projections set forth below
are included in this Prospectus only because this information
was prepared by Vector and provided to Jefferies in connection
with its discounted cash flow valuation of New Valleys
Douglas Elliman business and Koa Investors and are based on
information received by Vector as a stockholder of New Valley.
The prospective financial information was not prepared with a
view to public disclosure or compliance with the published
guidelines of the SEC or the guidelines established by the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants regarding the
preparation of prospective financial information. The
projections do not purport to present operations or financial
condition in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the U.S. The prospective financial information
included in this Prospectus has been prepared by, and is the
responsibility of, Vectors management.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has neither examined nor compiled the
accompanying prospective financial information and, accordingly,
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP does not express an opinion or any
other form of assurance with respect thereto. The
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP report included in this Prospectus
relates to Vectors and New Valleys historical
financial information. It does not extend to the prospective
financial information and should not be read to do so. It is
Vectors belief that these projections are subjective in
many respects and thus susceptible to interpretations and
periodic revision based on actual experience and business
developments. The projections also reflect numerous assumptions
made by Vector and, Vector believes, by management of New
Valley, with respect to industry performance, general business,
economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, all
of which are difficult to predict, and many of which are beyond
New Valleys control. Accordingly, there can be no
assurance that the assumptions made in preparing the projections
will prove accurate. It is expected that there will be
differences between actual and projected results, and actual
results may be materially greater or less than those contained
in the projections. The inclusion of the projections herein
should not be regarded as an indication that any of Vector or
New Valley or their respective affiliates or representatives
considered or consider the projections to be a reliable
prediction of future events, and the projections should not be
relied upon as such.
The projections anticipate results for the years 2006 through
2010 and do not reflect our offer and the subsequent merger.
Management believes that Douglas Elliman Realtys future
earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and
amortization, or EBITDA, and its projected cash available for
distribution,
42
net of tax distributions, in each of those years will not vary
significantly from its estimated EBITDA for 2005 of
$37.2 million and cash available for distribution, net of
tax distributions, of $18.3 million. The projections for
Douglas Elliman Realty are based on managements assumption
that Douglas Elliman Realtys number of brokers will remain
stable, any increases in operating expenses will be offset by
increases in net commission income and the number of sales
transactions and home prices in New York City and Long Island
will remain stable. Nonetheless, the real estate market is a
volatile industry and the length of the period covered by these
projections makes it difficult to predict whether future results
will be indicative of past performance. Accordingly, investors
are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these projections.
For Koa Investors, the projected net operating income for each
of those years is $5.7 million, $6.0 million,
$6.5 million, $7.5 million and $8.5 million,
respectively; and the projected cash available for distribution
net of taxes in each of those years is $3.4 million,
$3.6 million, $3.9 million, $4.5 million and
$5.1 million, respectively. The projections for Koa
Investors are based on the property managers estimates of
average occupancy rates in the hotel of 64%, 69%, 73%, 76% and
76% from 2006 to 2010, respectively, and increases in average
daily room rates of 8%, 8%, 3% and 3% from 2006 to 2010,
respectively, with costs increasing at approximately 3% per
year. Management then reduced the property managers
projections by 15%, 39%, 44%, 40% and 34% from 2006 to 2010,
respectively, to reflect potential shortfalls in the operating
budget. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on these projections.
Neither Vector nor any of its affiliates or representatives has
made or makes any representation to any person regarding the
ultimate performance of New Valley compared to the information
contained in the projections, and to Vectors knowledge,
none of them intends to update or otherwise revise the
projections to reflect circumstances existing after the date
when made or to reflect the occurrence of future events even in
the event that any or all of the assumptions underlying the
projections are shown to be in error.
For important information regarding the foregoing forward
looking statements, please see Forward-Looking
Information beginning on page 24.
Vector Forecasts
Vector does not as a matter of course make public any
projections as to future performance, earnings or net asset
value and the projections set forth below are included in this
Prospectus only because this information was prepared by Vector
and provided to Jefferies in connection with its
accretion/dilution analysis. The prospective financial
information was not prepared with a view to public disclosure or
compliance with the published guidelines of the SEC or the
guidelines established by the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants regarding the preparation of prospective
financial information. The projections do not purport to present
operations or financial condition in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the U.S. The prospective
financial information included in this Prospectus has been
prepared by, and is the responsibility of, Vectors
management. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has neither examined nor
compiled the accompanying prospective financial information and,
accordingly, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP does not express an
opinion or any other form of assurance with respect thereto. The
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP report included in this Prospectus
relates to Vectors and New Valleys historical
financial information. It does not extend to the prospective
financial information and should not be read to do so.
Vectors internal financial forecasts (upon which the
projections provided herein were based) are, in general,
prepared solely for internal use and capital budgeting and other
management decisions and are subjective in many respects and
thus susceptible to interpretations and periodic revision based
on actual experience and business developments. The projections
also reflect numerous assumptions made by management of Vector
with respect to industry performance, general business,
economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, all
of which are difficult to predict, many of which are beyond
Vectors control, and none of which are subject to approval
by Vector. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the
assumptions made in preparing the projections will prove
accurate. It is expected that there will be differences between
actual and projected results, and actual results may be
materially greater or less than those contained in the
projections. The inclusion of the projections herein should not
be regarded as an indication that any of Vector or its
respective affiliates or
43
representatives considered or consider the projections to be a
reliable prediction of future events, and the projections should
not be relied upon as such.
The projections anticipate results for the year 2006 and do not
reflect our offer and the subsequent merger. The projected
revenues for that year are $581.1 million; the projected
operating income for that year is $92.8 million; and the
projected net income for that year is $43.1 million. The
Vector projections are based on an anticipated increase in unit
sales, primarily in the deep discount cigarette segment, with
stable pricing, an increase of approximately 3% in selling,
general and administrative expenses, and net interest expense of
approximately $31.0 million.
Neither Vector nor any of its affiliates or representatives has
made or makes any representation to any person regarding the
ultimate performance of Vector compared to the information
contained in the projections, and to Vectors knowledge,
none of them intends to update or otherwise revise the
projections to reflect circumstances existing after the date
when made or to reflect the occurrence of future events even in
the event that any or all of the assumptions underlying the
projections are shown to be in error.
For important information regarding the foregoing forward
looking statements, please see Forward-Looking
Information beginning on page 24.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of
Operations for the year ended December 31, 2004 and the
nine months ended September 30, 2005 and the Unaudited Pro
Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2005
have been prepared to give effect to the offer and the
subsequent merger. The Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated
Statements of Operations assume that the offer and the
subsequent merger had been consummated as of the beginning of
the periods presented and the Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated
Balance Sheet is presented as if the offer and the subsequent
merger had occurred as of September 30, 2005. The unaudited
pro forma financial information does not purport to be
indicative of the results of operations or the financial
position which would have actually been obtained if the offer
and the subsequent merger had been consummated as of the
beginning of the periods or the date indicated. In addition, the
unaudited pro forma financial information does not purport to be
indicative of results of operations or financial position which
may be obtained in the future.
The Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Operations do
not include the realization of any cost savings from operating
efficiencies and synergies that may result from the consummation
of the offer and the subsequent merger.
The unaudited pro forma financial information should be read in
conjunction with Vectors and New Valleys historical
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto contained in
Vectors and New Valleys Annual Reports on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, as
amended, and their respective Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2005,
June 30, 2005, and September 30, 2005.
44
VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounting | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustments/ | |
|
|
|
|
Historical | |
|
Eliminations | |
|
Pro-Forma | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | |
Revenues*
|
|
$ |
342,251 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
342,251 |
|
Expenses:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of goods sold*
|
|
|
202,780 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
202,780 |
|
|
Operating, selling, administrative and general expenses
|
|
|
76,485 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
76,485 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
62,986 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62,986 |
|
Other income (expenses):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest and dividend income
|
|
|
3,260 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,260 |
|
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
(24,155 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(24,155 |
) |
|
Gain on sale of investments, net
|
|
|
1,433 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,433 |
|
|
Gain from conversion of LTS notes
|
|
|
9,461 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,461 |
|
|
Equity loss on operations of LTS
|
|
|
(299 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(299 |
) |
|
Equity income from non-consolidated New Valley real estate
businesses
|
|
|
6,202 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,202 |
|
|
Other, net
|
|
|
69 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
69 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and
minority interests
|
|
|
58,957 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58,957 |
|
|
Income tax expense
|
|
|
29,322 |
|
|
|
2,296 |
(B) |
|
|
31,618 |
|
|
Minority interests
|
|
|
(2,403 |
) |
|
|
2,403 |
(C) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
27,232 |
|
|
$ |
107 |
|
|
$ |
27,339 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per basic common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing
operations(A)
|
|
$ |
0.62 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.56 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per diluted common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing
operations(A)
|
|
$ |
0.59 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.53 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
Revenues and Cost of goods sold include excise taxes of $112,856. |
45
VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounting | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustments/ | |
|
|
|
|
Historical | |
|
Eliminations | |
|
Pro-Forma | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | |
Revenues:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tobacco*
|
|
$ |
498,860 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
498,860 |
|
Expenses:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of goods sold*
|
|
|
325,663 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
325,663 |
|
|
Operating, selling, administrative and general expenses
|
|
|
144,051 |
|
|
|
(4,177 |
)(D) |
|
|
139,874 |
|
|
Restructuring and impairment charges
|
|
|
13,699 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13,699 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
15,447 |
|
|
|
4,177 |
|
|
|
19,624 |
|
Other income (expenses):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest and dividend income
|
|
|
2,563 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,563 |
|
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
(25,077 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(25,077 |
) |
|
Loss on extinguishment of debt
|
|
|
(5,333 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(5,333 |
) |
|
Gain on sale of investments, net
|
|
|
8,664 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,664 |
|
|
Equity income from non-consolidated New Valley real estate
businesses
|
|
|
9,782 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,782 |
|
|
Other, net
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations before benefit for income
taxes and minority interests
|
|
|
6,106 |
|
|
|
4,177 |
|
|
|
10,283 |
|
|
Benefit for income taxes
|
|
|
(6,960 |
) |
|
|
5,214 |
(B) |
|
|
(1,746 |
) |
|
Minority interests
|
|
|
(9,027 |
) |
|
|
9,022 |
(C) |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
4,039 |
|
|
$ |
7,985 |
|
|
$ |
12,024 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per basic common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing
operations(A)
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per diluted common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing
operations(A)
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
Revenues and Cost of goods sold include excise taxes of $175,674. |
46
VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
September 30, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounting | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustments/ | |
|
|
|
|
Historical | |
|
Eliminations | |
|
Pro-Forma | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except | |
|
|
per share amounts) | |
ASSETS: |
Current assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
158,964 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
158,964 |
|
|
Investment securities available for sale
|
|
|
19,672 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,672 |
|
|
Accounts receivable trade
|
|
|
22,373 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
22,373 |
|
|
Other receivables
|
|
|
502 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
502 |
|
|
Inventories
|
|
|
76,602 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
76,602 |
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
3,486 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,486 |
|
|
Other current assets
|
|
|
9,140 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,140 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets
|
|
|
290,739 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
290,739 |
|
Property, plant and equipment, net
|
|
|
62,615 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62,615 |
|
Assets held for sale
|
|
|
2,212 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,212 |
|
Long-term investments, net
|
|
|
2,540 |
|
|
|
5,365 |
(G) |
|
|
7,905 |
|
Investments in non-consolidated real estate businesses
|
|
|
33,441 |
|
|
|
18,282 |
(G) |
|
|
51,723 |
|
Restricted assets
|
|
|
5,082 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,082 |
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
17,937 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,937 |
|
Intangible asset
|
|
|
107,511 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
107,511 |
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,758 |
(G) |
|
|
37,758 |
|
Other assets
|
|
|
14,330 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,330 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
536,407 |
|
|
$ |
61,405 |
|
|
$ |
597,812 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY (DEFICIT): |
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current portion of notes payable and long-term debt
|
|
$ |
16,955 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
16,955 |
|
|
Accounts payable
|
|
|
9,161 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,161 |
|
|
Accrued promotional expenses
|
|
|
15,442 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,442 |
|
|
Accrued taxes payable, net
|
|
|
31,084 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,084 |
|
|
Settlement accruals
|
|
|
14,130 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,130 |
|
|
Tobacco quota buyout
|
|
|
9,975 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,975 |
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
3,731 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,731 |
|
|
Accrued interest
|
|
|
3,643 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,643 |
|
|
Other accrued liabilities
|
|
|
18,555 |
|
|
|
3,750 |
(E),(G) |
|
|
22,305 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities
|
|
|
122,676 |
|
|
|
3,750 |
|
|
|
126,426 |
|
Notes payable, long-term debt and other obligations, less
current portion
|
|
|
237,772 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
237,772 |
|
Fair value of derivatives embedded within convertible debt
|
|
|
40,194 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
40,194 |
|
Noncurrent employee benefits
|
|
|
17,760 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,760 |
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
150,332 |
|
|
|
(23,753 |
) (F) |
|
|
135,931 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,352 |
(G) |
|
|
|
|
Other liabilities
|
|
|
5,328 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,328 |
|
Minority interests
|
|
|
58,590 |
|
|
|
(58,590 |
) (G) |
|
|
|
|
Commitments and contingencies
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockholders equity (deficit):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, par value $0.10 per share
|
|
|
4,459 |
|
|
|
508 |
(G) |
|
|
4,967 |
|
|
Additional paid-in capital
|
|
|
30,029 |
|
|
|
23,753 |
(F) |
|
|
159,580 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
105,798 |
(G) |
|
|
|
|
|
Unearned compensation
|
|
|
(10,100 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(10,100 |
) |
|
Deficit
|
|
|
(93,175 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(93,175 |
) |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
|
|
|
(11,138 |
) |
|
|
587 |
(G) |
|
|
(10,551 |
) |
|
Less: Treasury stock, at cost
|
|
|
(16,320 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(16,320 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stockholders equity (deficit)
|
|
|
(96,245 |
) |
|
|
130,646 |
|
|
|
34,401 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and stockholders equity (deficit)
|
|
$ |
536,407 |
|
|
$ |
61,405 |
|
|
$ |
597,812 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
47
Preliminary Purchase Price and Purchase Price Allocation
The pro forma purchase price which would have been paid to New
Valley stockholders under the revised exchange ratio for the
offer and the subsequent merger at November 16, 2005 (all
dollars are stated in thousands, except per share amounts):
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase price allocated to New Valley net assets:
|
|
|
|
|
Number of common shares of New Valley outstanding at
November 16, 2005
|
|
|
22,260,607 |
|
Number of common shares of New Valley outstanding at
November 16, 2005 held by Vector
|
|
|
12,849,118 |
|
|
|
|
|
Number of common shares of New Valley outstanding at
November 16, 2005 not owned by Vector
|
|
|
9,411,489 |
|
Exchange ratio
|
|
|
0.54 |
|
|
|
|
|
Number of shares of Vector common stock to be issued
|
|
|
5,082,204 |
|
Average closing price per share of Vector common stock for the
five trading days ended November 18, 2005 (two days prior
and two days subsequent to November 16, 2005)
|
|
$ |
20.03 |
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of Vector common stock to be issued
|
|
$ |
101,797 |
|
Fair value of stock options to be acquired (Note H)
|
|
|
1,346 |
|
Transaction fees and other costs (Note E)
|
|
|
3,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total purchase price
|
|
$ |
106,893 |
|
|
|
|
|
The purchase price was computed using the information available
on the announcement date of November 16, 2005, and reflects
the Vector common stock average closing price for the five days
including the announcement date and the two days prior and the
two days after the announcement date. However, the actual
purchase price will fluctuate with the market price of
Vectors common stock and the number of outstanding common
shares of New Valley until the effective time of the offer and
the subsequent merger.
48
Under the purchase method of accounting, Vector will allocate
the purchase price paid by Vector to the fair value of the New
Valley assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The pro forma
purchase price allocation is preliminary as the transaction has
not yet occurred. The pro forma presentation presumes that the
historical value of New Valleys tangible assets and
liabilities approximates their fair value. Additionally, the
allocation of purchase price to acquired intangible assets is
preliminary and subject to the final outcome of management
analyses, with the assistance of valuation advisors, to be
conducted as of the completion of the offer and the subsequent
merger. The residual amount after preliminary allocation to
identifiable intangibles of the purchase price has been
allocated to goodwill. The actual amounts recorded when the
offer and the subsequent merger are completed may differ
materially from the pro forma amounts presented herein (in
thousands):
|
|
|
|
|
Tangible assets acquired:
|
|
|
|
|
Current assets
|
|
$ |
108,586 |
|
Long-term investments
|
|
|
15,242 |
|
Investments in non-consolidated real estate businesses
|
|
|
76,084 |
|
Other assets
|
|
|
1,109 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total tangible assets acquired
|
|
|
201,021 |
|
Adjustment to reflect Vectors stock ownership of New
Valley prior to the offer and subsequent merger
|
|
|
(116,039 |
) |
Liabilities assumed
|
|
|
(6,495 |
) |
Deferred tax liability related to acquired long-term investments
and non-consolidated real estate businesses
|
|
|
(9,352 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Total assets acquired in excess of liabilities assumed
|
|
$ |
69,135 |
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
37,758 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total purchase price
|
|
$ |
106,893 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(A) |
|
Average Number of Common Shares of New Valley Outstanding.
Both the basic and diluted average number of common shares
of New Valley outstanding have been adjusted to reflect the
impact of the offer and the subsequent merger by applying the
0.54 exchange ratio to amounts historically reported by New
Valley. |
|
(B) |
|
Income Taxes. The pro forma adjustment to provision for
income taxes represents the application of Vectors and New
Valleys estimated statutory tax rates to each
companys respective share of the pro forma adjustments
impacting pretax income. |
|
(C) |
|
Minority Interests. Under the purchase method of
accounting, Vectors historical minority interest in New
Valleys results from operations will be eliminated upon
the completion of the offer and the subsequent merger. |
|
(D) |
|
Intercompany Transactions. To eliminate an intercompany
expense and liability, net of minority interests, from Vector to
New Valley related to the settlement of litigation. |
|
(E) |
|
Transaction Fees (in thousands). Various transaction fees
and other costs, estimated to total approximately $2,000 and
$1,750, have been or are expected to be incurred by Vector and
New Valley, respectively, in connection with the offer and the
subsequent merger and will be considered part of the purchase
price (and have been reflected as such). |
|
(F) |
|
Elimination of Deferred Tax Liability Associated with New
Valley. Under the purchase method of accounting,
Vectors deferred tax liability associated with book and
tax basis differences in its investment in New Valley will be
eliminated upon the completion of the offer and the subsequent
merger. |
|
(G) |
|
Purchase Price Allocation Goodwill and Related Adjustments.
Under the purchase method of accounting, the combined
company will allocate the purchase price paid by Vector to the
fair value of the New Valley tangible and intangible assets
acquired and liabilities assumed. The combined company will also
eliminate Vectors minority interest in its investment in
New Valley. The pro |
49
|
|
|
|
|
forma purchase price allocation is preliminary as the
transaction has not yet taken place. Therefore, the pro forma
presentation assumes that the historical value of New
Valleys tangible assets and liabilities approximates fair
value. Additionally, the allocation of purchase price to
acquired intangible assets is preliminary and subject to the
final outcome of management analyses to be conducted upon the
completion of the offer and subsequent merger. The residual
amount of the purchase price has been allocated to goodwill. The
actual amounts recorded when such merger is completed may differ
materially from the pro forma amounts presented herein. |
|
|
|
The preliminary pro forma purchase price allocation is
summarized as follows (in thousands): |
|
|
|
|
|
Excess of New Valley tangible assets acquired over liabilities
assumed at November 16, 2005
|
|
$ |
78,487 |
|
Deferred tax liability related to acquired long-term investments
and non-consolidated real estate businesses
|
|
|
(9,352 |
) |
Goodwill
|
|
|
37,758 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total Purchase Price
|
|
$ |
106,893 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(H) |
|
Fair Value of Stock Options. At the effective time of the
subsequent merger, each outstanding option to purchase common
shares of New Valley under New Valleys stock plans,
whether vested or unvested, will fully vest (if unvested) and
will be deemed to constitute an option to acquire, on the same
terms and conditions as were applicable under such New Valley
option, a number of shares of Vector common stock. |
|
|
|
The fair value of the options issued to New Valley option
holders represents an additional cost incurred by Vector to
acquire New Valley. The aggregate fair value of these options,
for the purposes of the pro forma balance sheet, was calculated
using the following assumptions as inputs to the Black-Scholes
option valuation formula: |
|
|
|
Weighted average expected term (years)
|
|
0.62 - 9.52 years |
Weighted average risk-free interest rate
|
|
4.36% to 4.54% |
Weighted average expected volatility
|
|
25% |
Weighted average per-share fair value
|
|
$6.56 |
Number of shares underlying options (at November 16, 2005)
|
|
205,333 |
Aggregate fair value allocated to purchase price (in
thousands)
|
|
1,346 |
|
|
|
|
|
These amounts are preliminary, and the actual amounts to be
recorded upon completion of the offer and the subsequent merger
may be significantly different than the pro forma amounts. The
aggregate fair value of the stock options following the offer
and the subsequent merger will fluctuate with the market price
of Vectors common stock as well as with periodic changes
to the other Black-Scholes assumptions. |
|
(I) |
|
Reconciliation of Equity. The following table reconciles
adjustments to Vectors equity accounts (in thousands). |
|
|
|
|
|
Equity portion of purchase price
|
|
$ |
106,893 |
|
Elimination of deferred tax liability (Note F)
|
|
|
23,753 |
|
|
|
|
|
Increase to Stockholders Equity
|
|
$ |
130,646 |
|
|
|
|
|
50
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND
INFORMATION
Vector
Vectors common stock is listed on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol VGR. In the following
table we present the high and low sales prices per share of
Vector common stock, as reported in the consolidated transaction
reporting system, for the quarterly periods presented below. We
also present the quarterly cash dividends paid during the
applicable periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash | |
|
|
High | |
|
Low | |
|
Dividends | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter (through Nov. 22)
|
|
$ |
20.82 |
|
|
$ |
18.67 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
20.27 |
|
|
|
17.01 |
|
|
|
.38 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
18.78 |
|
|
|
14.29 |
|
|
|
.38 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
16.02 |
|
|
|
14.62 |
|
|
|
.38 |
|
2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$ |
16.11 |
|
|
$ |
14.16 |
|
|
$ |
.38 |
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
15.95 |
|
|
|
13.62 |
|
|
|
.36 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
15.71 |
|
|
|
13.20 |
|
|
|
.36 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
16.55 |
|
|
|
14.67 |
|
|
|
.36 |
|
2003:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$ |
15.65 |
|
|
$ |
12.98 |
|
|
$ |
.36 |
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
15.76 |
|
|
|
12.09 |
|
|
|
.35 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
15.59 |
|
|
|
9.47 |
|
|
|
.35 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
12.52 |
|
|
|
9.50 |
|
|
|
.35 |
|
We paid 5% stock dividends on September 29, 2003,
September 29, 2004 and September 29, 2005 to the
holders of our common stock. All information presented in this
Prospectus is adjusted for the stock dividends.
The closing sale price for the shares of Vectors common
stock on November 15, 2005, the last full trading date
prior to Vectors announcement of the revised exchange
ratio for our offer, was $19.97. The closing sales price on
November 22, 2005, the last trading date prior to the
printing of this Prospectus for which this information was
practicably available, was $20.32. You are urged to obtain
current market quotations.
As of November 22, 2005, there were approximately
44,733,460 shares of Vector common stock outstanding and
approximately 420 holders of record of Vectors common
stock.
Vector Dividend Policy. The holders of shares of Vector
common stock receive dividends if and when declared by our board
of directors out of legally available funds. We currently pay
quarterly cash dividends at a rate of $0.40 per share. We
currently expect to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends at
this rate on a basis consistent with our past practice following
completion of the offer and the subsequent merger. However,
payment of dividends is within the discretion of Vectors
board and is subject to a variety of contingencies such as
market conditions, earnings and our financial condition as well
as the availability of cash. No assurance can be given that we
will continue to pay cash dividends on our common stock at the
current rate in the future or that stock dividends will be
declared in the future.
On September 9, 2005, Vector declared a regular quarterly
cash dividend of $0.40 per share and a 5% stock dividend
paid on September 29, 2005 to holders of record of Vector
common stock on September 20, 2005.
A special dividend of 0.23 of a share of Ladenburg Thalmann
Financial Services Inc. common stock was paid on each share of
Vector common stock on March 30, 2005.
51
New Valley
New Valleys common shares are listed on The Nasdaq Stock
Market under the symbol NVAL. The following table
sets forth the high and low sales prices per common share of New
Valley for the quarterly periods presented below. New Valley has
not paid cash dividends since its emergence from bankruptcy
proceedings in January 1995.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High | |
|
Low | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter (through Nov. 22)
|
|
$ |
10.95 |
|
|
$ |
7.26 |
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
10.41 |
|
|
|
6.60 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
7.30 |
|
|
|
6.00 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
7.22 |
|
|
|
5.51 |
|
2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$ |
6.78 |
|
|
$ |
4.68 |
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
5.25 |
|
|
|
3.70 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
4.69 |
|
|
|
3.66 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
4.34 |
|
|
|
4.00 |
|
2003:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$ |
4.44 |
|
|
$ |
3.60 |
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
4.53 |
|
|
|
3.71 |
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
5.00 |
|
|
|
3.11 |
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
4.74 |
|
|
|
3.18 |
|
The closing sale price for the common shares of New Valley on
November 15, 2005, the last full trading date prior to
Vectors announcement of the offers revised exchange
ratio, was $9.30. The closing sales price of New Valley common
shares on November 22, 2005, the last trading date prior to
the printing of this Prospectus for which this information was
practicably available, was $10.87. You are urged to obtain
current market quotations.
As of November 22, 2005, there were 22,260,607 common
shares of New Valley outstanding. Based on information received
by us from New Valley, there were approximately 10,400 holders
of record of New Valleys common shares as of
November 17, 2005.
A special dividend of 0.852 of a share of Ladenburg Thalmann
Financial Services Inc. common stock was paid on each common
share of New Valley on March 30, 2005.
THE OFFER
We are proposing to acquire all of the outstanding common shares
of New Valley that we do not already own. We currently own
12,849,118 common shares of New Valley, representing
approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley.
Exchange of Common Shares of New Valley
We are offering to exchange 0.54 of a share of Vector common
stock for each outstanding common share of New Valley, upon the
terms and conditions set forth in this Prospectus and the
related Letter of Transmittal. We will not acquire any common
shares of New Valley in the offer unless New Valley stockholders
(other than Vector and its subsidiaries) have validly tendered
and not properly withdrawn prior to the expiration of the offer
a number of common shares of New Valley such that, after giving
effect to the offer, we own at least 90% of the total number of
outstanding shares of New Valley. If this minimum tender
condition is satisfied, more than a majority of the minority
stockholders of New Valley (i.e., stockholders
unaffiliated with Vector and its subsidiaries and stockholders
who are not directors or
52
officers of New Valley) will have also validly tendered and not
properly withdrawn their common shares of New Valley in our
offer. We will not waive this minimum condition. As of
November 22, 2005, there were 22,260,607 common shares of
New Valley outstanding. Accordingly, for us to acquire any
common shares of New Valley, stockholders of New Valley must,
based on this information as to New Valleys outstanding
common shares, have tendered into the offer, and not withdrawn,
as of the expiration of the offer, at least 7,185,429 common
shares of New Valley (based on the number of outstanding common
shares of New Valley as of the date of this Prospectus). These
share numbers would change as a result of changes in New
Valleys share capitalization, such as through the exercise
of outstanding stock options. On November 16, 2005, we
entered into agreements with several large stockholders of New
Valley, who in the aggregate own approximately 28.2% of the
outstanding New Valley common shares, pursuant to which those
stockholders agreed to tender their New Valley common shares
into our offer. These common shares, when aggregated with the
approximately 57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New
Valley currently owned by Vector, represent approximately 85.9%
of New Valleys outstanding common shares that are
committed to the offer. There are also other conditions to the
offer that are described under Conditions of
the Offer beginning on page 64.
If we successfully complete the offer in accordance with its
terms, we would then own at least 90% of the outstanding common
shares of New Valley and be permitted under Delaware law to
effect a short form merger of one of our
wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley without the approval
of New Valleys board or remaining stockholders. We will
effect a short form merger of one of our
wholly-owned subsidiaries with New Valley as soon as practicable
after we complete the offer unless we are prevented from doing
so by a court or other legal requirement. Each outstanding
common share of New Valley we do not own or acquire in the offer
would be converted in the subsequent merger into the right to
receive 0.54 of a share of Vector common stock and cash instead
of fractional shares, the same consideration per common share of
New Valley you would have received if you had tendered your
shares into the offer, unless you properly perfect your
appraisal rights under Delaware law. See
Purpose of the Offer; The Subsequent
Merger beginning on page 60 and
Appraisal Rights beginning on
page 62. After completion of the subsequent merger, New
Valley will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vector.
When we refer to the expiration of the offer we mean
5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, December 9,
2005, unless we extend the period of time for which the offer is
open, in which case the offer will expire, and references to the
expiration of the offer will mean, the latest time and date on
which the offer is open.
You will not receive any fractional shares of Vector common
stock in the offer or the subsequent merger. Instead of any
fractional share, tendering stockholders will receive cash equal
to the product of that fractional share, after combining all
fractional shares to which you would otherwise be entitled, and
the closing price of Vector common stock as reported on the New
York Stock Exchange on the last trading day before the time that
the offer expires.
If you are the record owner of your shares and you tender your
shares directly to the Exchange Agent and Depositary, you will
not be obligated to pay any charges or expenses of the Exchange
Agent and Depositary or any brokerage commissions. If you own
your shares through a broker or other nominee, and your broker
or nominee tenders the shares on your behalf, your broker or
nominee may charge you a fee for doing so. You should consult
your broker or nominee to determine whether any charges will
apply.
Except as otherwise provided in Instruction 6 of the Letter
of Transmittal, VGR Holding will pay all stock transfer taxes
with respect to the transfer of any common shares of New Valley
pursuant to the offer. If, however, the consideration for any
common shares of New Valley acquired in the offer is to be paid
to a person other than the registered holder or holders, the
amount of any stock transfer taxes (whether imposed on the
registered holder or holders, such other person or otherwise)
payable on account of the transfer to such other person must be
paid by the person tendering the common shares of New Valley
unless evidence satisfactory to VGR Holding of the payment of
such taxes, or exemption therefrom, is submitted.
53
Timing of the Offer
We commenced the offer on October 20, 2005, the date of
distribution of the prospectus distributed with the original
offer. This revised offer is scheduled to expire at 5:00 p.m.,
New York City time, on Friday, December 9, 2005, unless we
extend the offer. All references to the expiration of the offer
shall mean such time and date as extended.
Extension, Termination and Amendment
We expressly reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to
extend, on one or more occasions, the period of time during
which the offer remains open, and we can do so by giving oral or
written notice of extension to the Exchange Agent and
Depositary. If we decide to extend our offer, we will make an
announcement to that effect no later than 9:00 a.m., New
York City time, on the next business day after the previously
scheduled expiration. We are not making any assurances that we
will exercise our right to extend our offer. During any
extension, all common shares of New Valley previously tendered
and not properly withdrawn will remain deposited with the
Exchange Agent and Depositary, subject to your right to withdraw
your common shares of New Valley as described below under
Withdrawal Rights beginning on
page 56.
Subject to the SECs applicable rules and regulations, we
reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to delay, on one or
more occasions, our acceptance for exchange of common shares of
New Valley pursuant to our offer. We also reserve the right to
terminate our offer and not accept for exchange any common
shares of New Valley, upon the failure of any of the conditions
of the offer to be satisfied or, where permissible, waived, or
otherwise to amend the offer in any respect (except as described
below), by giving oral or written notice of delay, termination
or amendment to the Exchange Agent and Depositary and by making
a public announcement.
We will follow any extension, delay, termination or amendment,
as promptly as practicable, with a public announcement. Subject
to applicable law, including Rules 14d-4(c) and 14d-6(d)
under the Exchange Act, which require that any material change
in the information published, sent or given to the stockholders
in connection with the offer be promptly sent to stockholders in
a manner reasonably designed to inform stockholders of the
change, and without limiting the manner in which we may choose
to make any public announcement, we assume no obligation to
publish, advertise or otherwise communicate any public
announcement other than by making a release to the Dow Jones
News Service.
We expressly reserve the right to modify, on one or more
occasions, the terms and conditions of the offer, except that we
will not modify or waive the Registration Statement
effectiveness condition, the Vector stockholder approval
condition, the listing condition, and the minimum tender
condition.
If we make a material change in the terms of the offer or the
information concerning the offer, or if we waive a material
condition of the offer, we will extend the offer to the extent
required under the Exchange Act.
Delivery of Vector Common Stock
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the offer,
including, if the offer is extended or amended, the terms and
conditions of the extension or amendment, we will accept for
exchange common shares of New Valley validly tendered and not
properly withdrawn promptly after the expiration of the offer
and will exchange Vector common stock and cash instead of
fractional shares for the tendered common shares of New Valley
as soon as practicable afterwards. In all cases, exchange of
common shares of New Valley tendered and accepted for exchange
pursuant to the offer will be made only if the Exchange Agent
and Depositary timely receives (1) certificates for those
common shares of New Valley, or a timely confirmation of a
book-entry transfer of those common shares of New Valley in the
Exchange Agent and Depositarys account at The Depository
Trust Company, or DTC, and a properly completed and duly
executed Letter of Transmittal or a duly executed copy thereof,
and any other required documents; or (2) a timely
confirmation of a book-entry transfer of those common shares of
New Valley in the
54
Exchange Agent and Depositarys account at DTC, together
with an agents message as described below
under Procedure for Tendering Shares.
For purposes of the offer, we will be deemed to have accepted
for exchange common shares of New Valley validly tendered and
not properly withdrawn when, as and if we notify the Exchange
Agent and Depositary of our acceptance of the tender of those
common shares of New Valley pursuant to the offer. The Exchange
Agent and Depositary will deliver shares of Vector common stock
in exchange for common shares of New Valley pursuant to the
offer and cash instead of a fraction of a share of Vector common
stock as soon as practicable after receipt of our notice. The
Exchange Agent and Depositary will act as agent for tendering
New Valley stockholders for the purpose of receiving Vector
common stock and cash to be paid instead of a fraction of a
share of Vector common stock and transmitting the stock and cash
to you. You will not receive any interest on any cash that we
pay you, even if there is a delay in making the exchange.
If we do not accept common shares of New Valley for exchange
pursuant to the offer or if certificates are submitted for more
common shares of New Valley than are tendered into the offer, we
will return certificates for these unexchanged common shares of
New Valley without expense to the tendering stockholder. If we
do not accept common shares of New Valley for exchange pursuant
to the offer, common shares of New Valley tendered by book-entry
transfer into the Exchange Agent and Depositarys account
at DTC pursuant to the procedures set forth below under
Procedure for Tendering Shares, will be
credited to the account maintained with DTC from which those
shares were originally transferred, as soon as practicable
following expiration or termination of the offer.
Cash Instead of Fractional Shares of Vector Common Stock
We will not issue any fraction of a share of Vector common stock
pursuant to the offer or the subsequent merger. Instead, each
tendering stockholder who would otherwise be entitled to a
fraction of a share of Vector common stock, after combining all
fractional shares to which the stockholder would otherwise be
entitled, will receive cash in an amount equal to the product
obtained by multiplying (1) the fraction of a share of
Vector common stock after combining all fractional shares to
which the holder would otherwise be entitled by (2) the
closing price of Vector common stock as reported on the New York
Stock Exchange on the last trading day before the time that the
offer expires.
Procedure for Tendering Common Shares
For you to validly tender common shares of New Valley into our
offer, you must do one of the following:
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Deliver certificates for your shares, a properly completed and
duly executed Letter of Transmittal or a duly executed copy
thereof, along with any other required documents, to the
Exchange Agent and Depositary at one of its addresses set forth
on the back cover of this Prospectus prior to the expiration of
the offer; |
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Arrange for a book-entry transfer of your shares to be made to
the Exchange Agent and Depositarys account at DTC and
receipt by the Exchange Agent and Depositary of a confirmation
of this transfer prior to the expiration of the offer, and the
delivery of a properly completed and duly executed Letter of
Transmittal or a duly executed copy thereof, and any other
required documents to the Exchange Agent and Depositary at one
of its addresses set forth on the back cover of this Prospectus
prior to the expiration of the offer; or |
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Arrange for a book-entry transfer of your shares to the Exchange
Agent and Depositarys account at DTC and receipt by the
Exchange Agent and Depositary of confirmation of this transfer,
including an agents message, prior to the
expiration of the offer. |
These deliveries and arrangements must be made before the
expiration of the offer. Common shares of New Valley validly
tendered and not properly withdrawn in connection with our offer
commenced on
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October 20, 2005 will automatically be considered tendered
into this revised offer. Tenders by Notice of Guaranteed
Delivery will not be accepted.
The term agents message means a message,
transmitted by DTC to, and received by, the Exchange Agent and
Depositary and forming a part of a book-entry confirmation,
which states that DTC has received an express acknowledgment
from the participant in DTC tendering the common shares of New
Valley which are the subject of the book-entry confirmation,
that the participant has received and agrees to be bound by the
terms of the Letter of Transmittal and that we may enforce that
agreement against the participant.
The Exchange Agent and Depositary has established an account
with respect to the common shares of New Valley at DTC for
purposes of the offer, and any financial institution that is a
participant in DTC may make book-entry delivery of the common
shares of New Valley by causing DTC to transfer these common
shares of New Valley into the Exchange Agent and
Depositarys account in accordance with DTCs
procedure for the transfer. For a tender made by transfer of
common shares of New Valley through book-entry delivery at DTC
to be valid, the Exchange Agent and Depositary must receive a
book-entry confirmation of transfer and either a duly executed
Letter of Transmittal or a duly executed copy thereof, along
with any other required documents at one of its addresses set
forth on the back cover of this Prospectus by the expiration
date of the offer, or an agents message as part of the
book-entry confirmation.
Signatures on all Letters of Transmittal must be guaranteed by
an eligible institution, except in cases in which common shares
of New Valley are tendered either by a registered holder of
common shares of New Valley who has not completed the box
entitled Special Delivery Instructions on the Letter
of Transmittal or for the account of an eligible institution. By
eligible institution, we mean a bank, broker,
dealer, credit union, savings association or other entity which
is a member in good standing of a recognized Medallion Program
approved by the Securities Transfer Association Inc., including
the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program (STAMP),
the Stock Exchange Medallion Program (SEMP) and the New
York Stock Exchange Medallion Signature Program (MSP) or
any other eligible guarantor institution, as that
term is defined in Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act.
If the certificates for common shares of New Valley are
registered in the name of a person other than the person who
signs the Letter of Transmittal, the certificates must be
endorsed or accompanied by appropriate stock powers, in either
case signed exactly as the name or names of the registered owner
or owners appear on the certificates, with the signature(s) on
the certificates or stock powers guaranteed in the manner
described above.
The method of delivery of certificates representing common
shares of New Valley and all other required documents, including
delivery through DTC, is at your option and risk, and the
delivery will be deemed made only when actually received by the
Exchange Agent and Depositary. If delivery is by mail, we
recommend registered mail with return receipt requested,
properly insured. In all cases, you should allow sufficient time
to ensure timely delivery.
Withdrawal Rights
You may withdraw common shares of New Valley that you tender
pursuant to the offer at any time before the expiration of the
offer. After the expiration of the offer, tenders are
irrevocable. However, if we have not accepted tendered shares
for exchange by Saturday, December 17, 2005, you may
withdraw tendered shares at any time thereafter prior to their
acceptance for exchange.
For your withdrawal to be effective, the Exchange Agent and
Depositary must receive from you a written or facsimile
transmission notice of withdrawal at one of its addresses set
forth on the back cover of this Prospectus, and your notice must
include your name, address, social security number, the
certificate number(s) and the number of common shares of New
Valley to be withdrawn as well as the name of the registered
holder, if it is different from that of the person who tendered
those common shares of New Valley. If common shares of New
Valley have been tendered pursuant to the procedures for
book-entry
56
tender discussed above under Procedure for
Tendering Shares, any notice of withdrawal must specify
the name and number of the account at DTC to be credited with
the withdrawn common shares of New Valley and must otherwise
comply with DTCs procedures. If certificates have been
delivered or otherwise identified to the Exchange Agent and
Depositary, the name of the registered holder and the serial
numbers of the particular certificates evidencing the common
shares of New Valley withdrawn must also be furnished to the
Exchange Agent and Depositary, as stated above, prior to the
physical release of the certificates. We will decide all
questions as to the form and validity (including time of
receipt) of any notice of withdrawal, in our sole discretion,
and our decision will be final and binding.
An eligible institution must guarantee all signatures on the
notice of withdrawal unless the common shares of New Valley have
been tendered for the account of an eligible institution.
None of Vector, VGR Holding, the Exchange Agent and Depositary,
the Information Agent, the Dealer Manager, or any other person
will be under any duty to give notification of any defects or
irregularities in any notice of withdrawal or will incur any
liability for failure to give any notification. Any common
shares of New Valley that you properly withdraw will be deemed
not to have been validly tendered for purposes of the offer.
However, you may retender withdrawn common shares of New Valley
by following one of the procedures discussed under
Procedure for Tendering Shares beginning
on page 55 at any time before the expiration of the offer.
Effect of a Tender of Common Shares
By executing a Letter of Transmittal, you will agree and
acknowledge that our acceptance for exchange of common shares of
New Valley you tender in the offer will, without any further
action, revoke any prior powers of attorney and proxies that you
may have granted in respect of those shares and you will not
grant any subsequent proxies and, if any are granted, they will
not be deemed effective. We reserve the right to require that,
in order for common shares of New Valley to be validly tendered,
we must be able to exercise full voting, consent and other
rights with respect to those common shares of New Valley
immediately upon our acceptance of those common shares of New
Valley for exchange.
We will determine questions as to the validity, form,
eligibility (including time of receipt) and acceptance for
exchange of any tender of common shares of New Valley, in our
sole discretion, and our determination will be final and
binding. We reserve the absolute right to reject any and all
tenders of common shares of New Valley that we determine are not
in proper form or the acceptance of or exchange for which may,
in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful. No tender of common
shares of New Valley will be deemed to have been validly made
until all defects and irregularities in tenders of those shares
have been cured or waived. None of Vector, VGR Holding, the
Exchange Agent and Depositary, the Information Agent, the Dealer
Manager, nor any other person will be under any duty to give
notification of any defects or irregularities in the tender of
any common shares of New Valley or will incur any liability for
failure to give any such notification. Our interpretation of the
terms and conditions of our offer, including the Letter of
Transmittal and instructions, will be final and binding.
The tender of common shares of New Valley pursuant to any of the
procedures described above will constitute a binding agreement
between you and us upon the terms and subject to the conditions
of the offer.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following description constitutes the opinion of Milbank,
Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP, our counsel
(Counsel), as to the material United States federal
income tax consequences for New Valley stockholders of the offer
and the subsequent merger. It is based upon the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended (which we refer to as the
Code), regulations under the Code, and court and
administrative rulings and decisions in effect on the date of
this Prospectus, all of which are subject to change, possibly
retroactively. Any change could affect the continuing validity
of the tax consequences described in this Prospectus. We have
not requested and will not request an advance ruling from the
Internal Revenue Service as to the tax consequences of the offer
and the subsequent merger. This description is not binding
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on the Internal Revenue Service, and there can be no assurance
that the Internal Revenue Service will not disagree with or
challenge any of the conclusions described below.
The description applies only to New Valley stockholders who are
U.S. persons. For purposes of this description, the term
U.S. person means:
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an individual who is a U.S. citizen or a U.S. resident
alien; |
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a corporation created or organized under the laws of the United
States or any State; |
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a trust where (1) a U.S. court is able to exercise
primary supervision over the administration of the trust and
(2) one or more U.S. persons have the authority to
control all substantial decisions of the trust; or |
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an estate that is subject to U.S. tax on its worldwide
income from all sources. |
Our description is not a comprehensive description of all the
tax consequences that may be relevant to you. It applies only to
New Valley stockholders who hold their common shares of New
Valley as a capital asset. No attempt has been made to address
all United States federal income tax consequences that may be
relevant to a particular New Valley stockholder in light of the
stockholders individual circumstances or to New Valley
stockholders who are subject to special treatment under the
United States federal income tax laws, such as:
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banks, insurance companies and financial institutions; |
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tax-exempt organizations; |
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mutual funds; |
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persons that have a functional currency other than the
U.S. dollar; |
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investors in pass-through entities; |
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traders in securities who elect to apply a mark-to-market method
of accounting; |
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dealers in securities or foreign currencies; |
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New Valley stockholders who received their common shares of New
Valley through the exercise of options, or otherwise as
compensation or through a tax-qualified retirement plan or who
are entitled to require New Valley to purchase their common
shares of New Valley pursuant to an agreement with New Valley; |
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holders of options granted by New Valley; |
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New Valley stockholders who are not U.S. persons; and |
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New Valley stockholders who hold common shares of New Valley as
part of a hedge, straddle, constructive sale or conversion
transaction. |
This description does not address any tax consequences arising
under the laws of any state, locality or foreign jurisdiction,
and it does not address any federal tax consequences other than
federal income tax consequences. It does not address the tax
consequences of any transaction other than the offer and the
subsequent merger. Accordingly, each New Valley stockholder is
strongly urged to consult with a tax advisor to determine the
particular federal, state, local or foreign income or other tax
consequences of the offer and the subsequent merger to the
stockholder.
The tax consequences of the offer and subsequent merger will
depend on, among other things, the occurrence of the following
events in the following manner and order (the
Transactions):
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(1) |
prior to consummation of the offer, VGR converts into a Delaware
limited liability company (VGR LLC); |
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(2) |
VGR LLC consummates the offer in the manner described herein; |
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(3) |
immediately after step (2), VGR LLC distributes all of the New
Valley common shares that it owns to Vector; |
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(4) |
immediately after step (3), Vector contributes the New Valley
common shares received from VGR LLC to a newly formed
wholly-owned Vector corporate subsidiary (MergerCo)
in exchange for MergerCo stock; |
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as soon as practical after step (4), MergerCo will effect the
subsequent short form merger by merging New Valley
into MergerCo, with MergerCo surviving, pursuant to which the
holders of New Valley common shares other than MergerCo will
receive Vector common stock in consideration for their New
Valley common shares as described under The
Offer Purpose of the Offer; the Subsequent
Merger; and |
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immediately after step (5), MergerCo merges into a newly formed
wholly-owed Vector subsidiary that is organized as a Delaware
limited liability company taxed as an entity disregarded from
Vector, with the limited liability company surviving. |
If the Transactions occur in the manner and in the order
described above, and subject to the accuracy of certain
representations and covenants to be made by Vector and New
Valley in certificates of officers of Vector and New Valley
provided to Counsel as of the expiration of the offer, the offer
and subsequent merger, taken together with the remainder of the
Transactions, will constitute a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and the Vector common
stock received by New Valley stockholders in the offer and
subsequent merger in consideration for their New Valley common
shares will be treated as received in a reorganization. As soon
as practicable following consummation of the offer, Vector will
effect steps (3) through (6) of the Transactions unless
Vector is prevented from doing so by a court or other legal
requirement.
If the Transactions do not occur in the order described above or
the representations and covenants provided to Counsel are
inaccurate or for other reasons, the Transactions may not
qualify as a reorganization. We note that certain steps in the
Transactions will occur after the consummation of the offer and
that such steps may not occur for reasons beyond Vectors
control. See below for a discussion of the tax consequences
associated with the receipt of Vector common stock for New
Valley common shares in the offer and subsequent merger if such
Vector common stock is not treated as received in a
reorganization.
Assuming the Vector common stock issued pursuant to the offer
and the subsequent merger is treated as received in a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the
Code, then, in general:
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New Valley stockholders will not recognize any gain or loss on
the exchange of common shares of New Valley for Vector common
stock in the offer and the subsequent merger, except with
respect to cash, if any, they receive instead of fractional
shares of Vector common stock; |
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the aggregate tax basis to a New Valley stockholder of the
Vector common stock received in exchange for common shares of
New Valley pursuant to the offer or the subsequent merger will
equal the New Valley stockholders aggregate tax basis in
the common shares of New Valley surrendered, decreased by the
amount of any tax basis allocable to any fractional share
interest in Vector common stock for which cash is received; |
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the holding period of a New Valley stockholder for the Vector
common stock received pursuant to the offer or the subsequent
merger will include the holding period of the common shares of
New Valley surrendered in exchange; and |
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a New Valley stockholder who receives cash instead of a
fractional share of Vector common stock pursuant to the offer or
the subsequent merger will recognize gain or loss on the
exchange in an amount equal to the difference between the amount
of cash received and the basis of the common shares of New
Valley allocable to the fractional share. The gain or loss
generally will constitute capital gain or loss. Capital gain or
loss will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the New
Valley stockholder has held the New Valley common shares for
more than one year. Non-corporate |
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taxpayers are subject to a reduced tax rate (currently a maximum
15% rate) on their long-term capital gains. The deductibility of
capital losses is subject to limitations for both individuals
and corporations. |
A New Valley stockholder who receives cash for all its common
shares of New Valley pursuant to the exercise of appraisal
rights generally will recognize gain or loss equal to the
difference between the tax basis of the common shares of New
Valley surrendered and the amount of cash received, except that
any cash received that is or is deemed to be interest for
federal income tax purposes will be taxed as ordinary income. A
stockholder receiving cash pursuant to the exercise of appraisal
rights may be required to recognize gain or loss in the year the
subsequent merger closes, irrespective of whether the
stockholder actually receives payment for its common shares of
New Valley in that year.
If the exchange of common shares of New Valley for Vector common
stock in the offer and the subsequent merger does not qualify as
a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code, then a New Valley stockholder
who receives shares of Vector common stock in exchange for the
New Valley stockholders shares will generally recognize
taxable gain or loss on the exchange. Such gain would generally
equal the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the Vector
common stock received for a common share of New Valley over the
New Valley stockholders tax basis in the common share of
New Valley surrendered. New Valley stockholders who have a tax
basis in a common share of New Valley that exceeds the fair
market value of the Vector common stock received in exchange for
such common share of New Valley should recognize a loss. The
gain or loss generally will constitute capital gain or loss.
Capital gain or loss will generally be long-term capital gain or
loss if the New Valley stockholder has held the New Valley
common shares for more than one year. Non-corporate taxpayers
are subject to a reduced tax rate (currently a maximum 15% rate)
on their long-term capital gains. The deductibility of capital
losses is subject to limitations for both individuals and
corporations. A former New Valley stockholders tax basis
in Vector common stock received in a transaction that does not
qualify as a reorganization will equal the fair market value of
the Vector common stock as of the date of the exchange and the
holders holding period for the Vector common stock will
begin on the day after the date of the exchange.
Tax matters are very complicated, and the tax consequences of
the offer and the subsequent merger to each New Valley
stockholder will depend on the facts of that stockholders
particular situation. You are urged to consult your own tax
advisors regarding the specific tax consequences of the offer
and the subsequent merger, including tax return reporting
requirements, the applicability of federal, state, local and
foreign tax laws and the effect of any proposed changes in the
tax laws.
Purpose of the Offer; The Subsequent Merger
We are proposing to acquire all of the outstanding common shares
of New Valley that we do not own. We currently own 12,849,118
common shares of New Valley which represent approximately 57.7%
of the outstanding shares. We are offering to exchange 0.54 of a
share of Vector common stock for each outstanding common share
of New Valley which is validly tendered and not properly
withdrawn prior to the expiration of the offer, upon the terms
and conditions set forth in this Prospectus and the related
Letter of Transmittal. We will not acquire any shares of New
Valley in the offer unless New Valley stockholders (other than
Vector and its subsidiaries) have tendered into this offer, and
not withdrawn, as of the expiration of the offer, a number of
common shares of New Valley such that, after giving effect to
the offer, we own at least 90% of the total number of
outstanding common shares of New Valley. If this minimum tender
condition is satisfied, more than a majority of the minority
stockholders (i.e., stockholders unaffiliated with Vector
and its subsidiaries and stockholders who are not directors or
officers of New Valley) will have also validly tendered and not
properly withdrawn their common shares of New Valley in our
offer. We will not waive this minimum tender condition. As of
November 22, 2005, there were 22,260,607 common shares of
New Valley outstanding. Accordingly, for us to acquire any
common shares of New Valley, New Valley stockholders, other than
Vector or its subsidiaries must, in order for us to satisfy the
90% minimum tender condition, have tendered into the offer, and
not withdrawn, as of the expiration of the offer, at least
7,185,429 common shares of New Valley (based on the number of
outstanding common shares of New Valley as of the date of this
Prospectus). These share numbers would
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change as a result of changes in New Valleys share
capitalization, such as through the exercise of outstanding
stock options. On November 16, 2005, we entered into
agreements with several large stockholders of New Valley, who in
the aggregate own approximately 28.2% of the outstanding New
Valley common shares, pursuant to which those stockholders
agreed to tender their New Valley common shares into our offer.
These common shares, when aggregated with the approximately
57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley currently
owned by Vector, represent approximately 85.9% of New
Valleys outstanding common shares that are committed to
the offer. There are also other conditions to the offer that are
described under Conditions of the Offer
beginning on page 64.
Upon successful completion of the offer, we would own more than
90% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley, and we would
be permitted under Delaware law to effect a short
form merger of one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries with
New Valley without the approval of New Valleys board or
remaining stockholders. In that case, we will effect a
short form merger of one of our wholly-owned
subsidiaries with New Valley as soon as practicable after we
complete the offer unless we are prevented from doing so by a
court or other legal requirement. Each outstanding share which
we do not own or acquire in the offer would be converted in the
subsequent merger into the right to receive 0.54 of a share of
Vector common stock and cash instead of fractional shares.
Accordingly, if you do not tender your shares and we effect the
short form merger, you will receive the same
consideration per common share of New Valley you would have
received if you had tendered your shares into the offer, unless
you properly perfect your appraisal rights under Delaware law.
See Appraisal Rights beginning on
page 62. After completion of the subsequent merger, New
Valley will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vector.
If we successfully complete the offer but are not able to
complete promptly the short form merger, New
Valleys common shares not tendered into the offer would
remain outstanding until we are able to effect such a merger, if
ever. In these circumstances, the liquidity of and market for
those remaining publicly held common shares of New Valley, and
the rights of the holders of those shares, could be adversely
affected. New Valleys common shares are currently listed
on The Nasdaq Stock Market. Depending upon the number of common
shares of New Valley purchased in the offer, New Valleys
common shares may no longer meet the requirements for continued
listing and may be delisted from The Nasdaq Stock Market. It is
possible that New Valleys common shares would continue to
trade in the over-the-counter market and that price quotations
would be reported by other sources. The extent of the public
market for New Valleys common shares and the availability
of these quotations would depend, however, upon the number of
holders of New Valleys common shares remaining at that
time, the interests in maintaining a market in New Valleys
common shares on the part of securities firms, the possible
termination of registration of New Valleys common shares
under the Exchange Act, as described below, and other factors.
New Valleys common shares are currently registered under
the Exchange Act. This registration may be terminated upon
application of New Valley to the SEC if the shares are no longer
listed on a securities exchange and there are fewer than 300
holders of record of New Valley common shares. Based on
information received by us from New Valley, there were
approximately 10,400 holders of record of New Valleys
common shares as of November 17, 2005. The termination of
the registration of New Valleys common shares under the
Exchange Act would substantially reduce the information required
to be furnished by New Valley to its stockholders and to the
SEC. It would also make certain of the provisions of the
Exchange Act, such as the short-swing profit recovery provisions
of Section 16(b), the requirement of furnishing a proxy
statement in connection with stockholders meetings, the
related requirement of an annual report to stockholders, and the
requirements of SEC Rule 13e-3 with respect to going
private transactions, no longer applicable.
Common shares of New Valley are currently margin
securities under the regulations of the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System. This has the effect of allowing
brokers to extend credit on common shares of New Valley as
collateral. Depending on factors similar to those described
above regarding listing and market quotations, it is possible
that New Valleys common shares would no longer constitute
margin securities for purposes of the Federal
Reserve Boards margin regulations. If registration of New
Valleys common shares under the Exchange Act is
terminated, common shares of New Valley would no longer be
margin securities.
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Appraisal Rights
Under Delaware law, New Valley stockholders do not have
appraisal rights in connection with the offer. If the offer is
successfully completed, holders of New Valley common shares who
(1) do not tender their shares into the offer and hold
common shares at the effective time of the subsequent
short form merger, (2) do not wish to accept
the consideration provided for in that merger and
(3) comply with the procedures provided for in
Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or the
DGCL, will be entitled to have their common shares of New Valley
appraised by the Delaware Court of Chancery and to receive a
payment in cash of the fair value of those shares as
determined by the Court. The following summarizes provisions of
Section 262 of the DGCL regarding appraisal rights that
would be applicable in connection with the subsequent merger,
which will be effected as a merger of a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Vector with New Valley. This discussion is qualified in its
entirety by reference to Section 262 of the DGCL. A copy of
Section 262 is attached to this Prospectus as Annex C.
If you fail to take any action required by Delaware law, your
rights to an appraisal in connection with the subsequent merger
will be waived or terminated.
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Notification of Mergers Effective Time: |
Within ten days after the effective time of the subsequent
merger, New Valley will send notice of the effective time of
such merger and the availability of appraisal rights to each
holder of its common shares.
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Electing Appraisal Rights: |
To exercise appraisal rights, the record holder of New
Valleys common shares must, within 20 days after the
date New Valley mails the notice referred to in the prior
paragraph, deliver a written demand for appraisal to New Valley.
This demand must reasonably inform New Valley of the identity of
the holder of record and that the stockholder demands appraisal
of his, her or its common shares of New Valley.
A demand for appraisal must be delivered to: Corporate
Secretary, New Valley Corporation, 100 S.E. Second
Street, Miami, Florida 33131.
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Only Record Holders May Demand Appraisal Rights: |
Only a record holder of New Valleys common shares is
entitled to demand appraisal rights. The demand must be executed
by or for the record holder, fully and correctly, as the
holders name appears on the holders stock
certificates.
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If common shares of New Valley are owned of record in a
fiduciary capacity, such as by a trustee, guardian or custodian,
the demand should be executed in that capacity. |
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If common shares of New Valley are owned of record by more than
one person, as in a joint tenancy or tenancy in common, the
demand should be executed by or for all owners. |
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An authorized agent, including one of two or more joint owners,
may execute the demand for appraisal for a holder of record. The
agent must identify the owner or owners of record and expressly
disclose the fact that, in executing the demand, the agent is
acting as agent for the owner or owners of record. |
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A holder of record, such as a broker, who holds New
Valleys common shares as nominee for a beneficial owner,
may exercise a holders right of appraisal with respect to
New Valleys common shares held for all or less than all of
those beneficial owners interest. In that case, the
written demand should set forth the number of common shares of
New Valley covered by the demand. If no number of shares is
expressly mentioned, the demand will be presumed to cover all of
New Valleys common shares standing in the name of the
record holder. New Valley stockholders who hold their shares in
brokerage accounts or through any other nominee and wish to
exercise appraisal rights should consult their brokers or other
nominees to determine the procedures they must follow in order
for their brokers and other nominees to exercise appraisal
rights in respect of their common shares of New Valley. |
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Court Petition Must Be Filed: |
Within 120 days after the effective time of the subsequent
merger, New Valley or any stockholder who has satisfied the
foregoing conditions may file a petition in the Delaware Court
of Chancery demanding a determination of the fair value of New
Valleys common shares. Neither Vector nor New Valley will
have any obligation to file such a petition. Stockholders
seeking to exercise appraisal rights should initiate all
necessary action to perfect their rights within the time periods
prescribed by Delaware law.
Within 120 days after the effective time of the subsequent
merger, any stockholder who has complied with the requirements
under Section 262 of the DGCL for exercise of appraisal
rights may make a written request to receive from New Valley a
statement of the total number of common shares of New Valley
with respect to which demands for appraisal have been received
and the total number of holders of these shares. New Valley will
be required to mail these statements within ten days after it
receives a written request.
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Appraisal Proceeding by Delaware Court: |
If a petition for an appraisal is timely filed, after a hearing
on the petition, the Delaware Court of Chancery will determine
which of the stockholders are entitled to appraisal rights. The
Court will appraise the common shares owned by the stockholders
and determine their fair value. In determining fair value, the
Court may consider a number of factors including market values
of New Valleys stock, asset values and other generally
accepted valuation considerations, but will exclude any element
of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the
subsequent merger. The Court will also determine the amount of
interest, if any, to be paid upon the value of the common shares
to the stockholders entitled to appraisal.
The value determined by the Court for New Valleys common
shares could be more than, less than, or the same as the
subsequent merger consideration, but the form of the
consideration payable as a result of the appraisal proceeding
would be cash. The Court may determine the costs of the
appraisal proceeding and allocate them to the parties as the
Court determines to be equitable under the circumstances. The
Court may also order that all or a portion of any
stockholders expenses incurred in connection with an
appraisal proceeding, including reasonable attorneys fees
and expenses and reasonable fees and expenses of experts
utilized in the appraisal proceeding, be charged, on a pro rata
basis, against the value of all of New Valleys common
shares entitled to appraisal.
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Effect of Appraisal Demand on Voting and Right to
Dividends; Tax Consequences: |
Any stockholder who has duly demanded an appraisal in compliance
with Delaware law will not, after the effective time of the
subsequent merger, be entitled to vote the shares subject to the
demand for any purpose. The shares subject to the demand will
not be entitled to dividends or other distributions, other than
those payable or deemed to be payable to stockholders of record
as of a date prior to the effective time of the subsequent
merger. We describe above under Material
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences, beginning on
page 57, the tax consequences to a New Valley stockholder
who receives cash for his or her common shares of New Valley
pursuant to the exercise of appraisal rights.
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Loss, Waiver or Withdrawal of Appraisal Rights: |
Holders of New Valleys common shares will lose the right
to appraisal if no petition for appraisal is filed within
120 days after the effective time of the subsequent merger.
A stockholder will also lose the right to an appraisal by
delivering to New Valley a written withdrawal of the
stockholders demand for an appraisal. Any attempt to
withdraw that is made more than 60 days after the effective
time of the subsequent merger requires New Valleys written
approval. If appraisal rights are not perfected or a demand for
appraisal rights is timely withdrawn, a stockholder will be
entitled to receive the consideration otherwise payable pursuant
to the subsequent merger, without interest. The number of shares
of Vector common stock, and cash instead of a fraction of a
share of Vector common stock, delivered to such stockholder will
be based on the same exchange ratio utilized in the subsequent
merger, regardless of the market price of shares of
Vectors common stock at the time of delivery.
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Dismissal of Appraisal Proceeding: |
If an appraisal proceeding is timely instituted, this proceeding
may not be dismissed as to any stockholder who has perfected a
right of appraisal without the approval of the Court.
Conditions of the Offer
The offer is subject to a number of conditions, which we
describe below. Notwithstanding any other provision of the
offer, we will not be required to accept for exchange or
exchange any shares, may postpone the acceptance for exchange or
exchange of tendered shares, and may, in our sole discretion,
terminate or amend the offer as to any shares not then exchanged
if any of these conditions are not satisfied or, where
permissible, waived before or as of the expiration of the offer.
If any of these conditions is not satisfied or, where
permissible, waived before or as of the scheduled expiration of
the offer, we may choose to extend the expiration of the offer
or terminate the offer.
There must be validly tendered and not properly withdrawn prior
to the expiration of the offer a number of common shares of New
Valley such that, after giving effect to the offer, we own at
least 90% of the total number of outstanding common shares of
New Valley. If this minimum tender condition is satisfied, more
than a majority of the minority stockholders (i.e.,
stockholders unaffiliated with Vector and its subsidiaries and
stockholders who are not directors or officers of New Valley)
will have also validly tendered and not properly withdrawn their
common shares of New Valley in our offer. We will not waive this
minimum tender condition. As of November 22, 2005, there
were 22,260,607 common shares of New Valley outstanding.
Accordingly, for us to acquire any common shares of New Valley,
stockholders of New Valley must have tendered into the offer,
and not have withdrawn, as of the expiration of the offer, at
least 7,185,429 common shares of New Valley (based on the number
of outstanding common shares of New Valley as of the date of
this Prospectus). On November 16, 2005, we entered into
agreements with several large stockholders of New Valley, who in
the aggregate own approximately 28.2% of the outstanding New
Valley common shares, pursuant to which those stockholders
agreed to tender their New Valley common shares into our offer.
These common shares, when aggregated with the approximately
57.7% of the outstanding common shares of New Valley currently
owned by Vector, represent approximately 85.9% of New
Valleys outstanding common shares that are committed to
the offer. These share numbers would change as a result of
changes in New Valleys share capitalization, such as
through exercise of outstanding options.
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Registration Statement Effectiveness Condition: |
The Registration Statement on Form S-4 of which this
Prospectus is a part must have become effective under the
Securities Act and not be the subject of any stop order or
proceedings seeking a stop order. We will not waive this
Registration Statement effectiveness condition.
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Vector Stockholder Approval: |
In accordance with listing requirements of the New York Stock
Exchange, the issuance of Vector common stock in the offer and
the subsequent merger must have been approved by Vector
stockholders entitled to vote thereon at a special meeting of
such stockholders currently scheduled for December 8, 2005,
or any adjournments thereof. Pursuant to the New York Stock
Exchange listing requirements, an affirmative vote of the
majority of the votes cast (provided that the total vote cast
for the proposed issuance represents over 50% in interest of all
of the shares of Vector common stock entitled to vote thereon)
regarding the proposed issuance is required for approval of the
proposed issuance of Vector common stock pursuant to the offer
and subsequent merger. The directors and officers of Vector, who
in the aggregate represent 29.3% of the outstanding Vector
common stock, have already indicated their intention to vote in
favor of this issuance. We will not waive this Vector
stockholder approval condition.
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The Vector common stock issuable in the offer and the subsequent
merger must have been approved for listing on the New York Stock
Exchange, subject to official notice of issuance. We will not
waive this listing condition.
Tax
Opinion Condition:
Our special counsel, Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP,
shall have provided us with its opinion that, on the basis of
the facts, representations and assumptions set forth in such
opinion and in certificates of officers of Vector and New Valley
provided in connection with the issuance of such opinion, the
receipt of Vector common stock by New Valley stockholders in the
offer and subsequent merger will be treated for federal income
tax purposes as received in a reorganization within the meaning
of Section 368(a) of the Code. We will not waive this tax
opinion condition.
In addition, we will not be required to accept shares of New
Valley for exchange or exchange any shares, may postpone the
acceptance for exchange or exchange of any shares and may choose
to extend the expiration of the offer or to terminate the offer
if any of the following occurs and is continuing as of the
expiration of the offer:
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there shall be threatened, instituted or pending any action,
proceeding or application by or before any court, government or
governmental authority or other regulatory or administrative
agency or commission, domestic or foreign (other than the New
Valley stockholder litigations described under Certain
Legal Matters and Regulatory Approvals Stockholder
Litigation beginning on page 67); |
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which challenges the acquisition by us of the common shares of
New Valley, seeks to restrain, delay or prohibit the
consummation of the offer or the transactions contemplated by
the offer or any subsequent merger or seeks to obtain any
material damages or otherwise, directly or indirectly, relates
to the transactions contemplated by the offer or subsequent
merger; |
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which seeks to prohibit or impose material limitations on our
acquisition, ownership or operation of all or any portion of our
or New Valleys business or assets (including the business
or assets of their respective affiliates and subsidiaries) or of
the common shares of New Valley (including, without limitation,
the right to vote the shares purchased by us, on an equal basis
with all other shares, on all matters presented to the
stockholders of New Valley), or seeks to compel us to dispose of
or hold separate all or any portion of our or New Valleys
business or assets (including the business or assets of their
respective affiliates and subsidiaries) as a result of the
transactions contemplated by the offer or any subsequent merger; |
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which may reasonably be expected to materially and adversely
affect New Valley or us, or any of our respective affiliates or
subsidiaries (which we refer to as a Material Adverse
Effect), or result in a material diminution in the value
of the common shares of New Valley or common stock of Vector or
the benefits expected to be derived by us, as described under
Background and Reasons for the Offer and Subsequent
Merger Key Factors Motivating the Offer
beginning on page 25, Background and Reasons for the Offer
and Subsequent Merger Vector Boards
September 27, 2005 Decision to Commence the Offer
beginning on page 26, and Background and Reasons for the
Offer and Subsequent Merger Vector Boards
November 16, 2005 Decision to Increase the Exchange
Ratio beginning on page 31, as a result of the
transactions contemplated by the offer or any subsequent merger
(which we refer to as a Material Diminution in
Value); or |
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which seeks to impose any condition to the offer unacceptable to
us; or |
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there shall have occurred any material development in the New
Valley stockholder litigations, described under Certain
Legal Matters and Regulatory Approvals Stockholder
Litigation beginning on page 67, that is adverse to the
defendants in those litigations; or |
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any statute, including without limitation, any state
anti-takeover statute, rule, regulation or order or injunction
shall be sought, proposed, enacted, promulgated, entered,
enforced or deemed or become applicable or asserted to be
applicable to the offer or any subsequent merger or the
transactions contemplated by the offer or subsequent merger that
may, directly or indirectly, reasonably be expected to result in
any of the consequences referred to in the 1st through
4th sub-bullets of the initial bullet paragraph under
Additional Conditions immediately above, including
any determination or assertion by any governmental authority
that a filing under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, or the HSR
Act, is required; or |
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any change (or any condition, event or development involving a
prospective change) shall have occurred or be threatened that
has had or may reasonably be expected to have a materially
adverse effect on the business, properties, assets, liabilities,
capitalization, stockholders equity, financial condition,
operations, results of operations or prospects of New Valley or
any of its subsidiaries, or Vector or we shall have become aware
of any fact that has had or may reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect or results or may reasonably be expected
to result in a Material Diminution in Value; or |
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there shall have occurred: |
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any general suspension of, or limitation on times or prices for,
trading in securities (including, but not limited to, New
Valleys common shares or Vectors common stock) on
any national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter
market; |
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a declaration of a banking moratorium or any suspension of
payments in respect of banks in the United States; |
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the outbreak or escalation of a war, terrorist activities, armed
hostilities or other international or national calamity directly
or indirectly involving the United States; |
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any limitation (whether or not mandatory) by any governmental
authority on, or any other event which might affect the
extension of, credit by banks or other lending institutions; |
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a suspension of or limitation (whether or not mandatory) on the
currency exchange markets or the imposition of, or material
changes in, any currency or exchange control laws in the United
States; or |
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in the case of any of the foregoing existing at the time of the
commencement of the offer, a material acceleration or worsening
thereof; or |
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New Valley, with the approval of the special committee, and we
shall have reached an agreement or understanding that the offer
be terminated or amended or we (or one of our affiliates) shall
have entered into a definitive agreement or an agreement in
principle with New Valley, with the approval of the special
committee, to acquire New Valley by merger or similar business
combination, or purchase of shares or assets of New Valley; or |
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any change (or any condition, event or development involving a
prospective change) shall have occurred or be threatened in the
general economic, financial, currency exchange or market
conditions in the United States or abroad that has had or may
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect or
results or may reasonably be expected to result in a Material
Diminution in Value. |
The foregoing conditions are for our sole benefit and may be
asserted by us regardless of the circumstances (including any
action or inaction on our part) giving rise to any such
conditions or may be waived by us in whole or in part at any
time and from time to time in our sole discretion prior to the
expiration of the offer, except for those conditions that cannot
be waived as provided above. The determination as to whether any
condition has occurred will be in our good faith judgment and
will be final and binding on all parties. Any failure by us at
any time to exercise any of the foregoing rights shall not be
deemed a waiver of any such right and each such right shall be
deemed an ongoing right which may be asserted at any time and
from time to time.
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CERTAIN LEGAL MATTERS AND REGULATORY APPROVALS
U.S. Approvals
Except as we have described in this Prospectus, we are not aware
of any license or regulatory permit required in the U.S. and
material to the business of New Valley and its subsidiaries, on
a consolidated basis, that may be materially adversely affected
by our acquisition of New Valleys common shares, or any
filing or approval required in the U.S. that would be
required for our acquisition of New Valleys common shares.
We intend to make all required filings under the Securities Act
and the Exchange Act.
Non-U.S. Approvals
We are unaware of any requirement for the filing of information
with, or the obtaining of the approval of, governmental
authorities in any non-U.S. jurisdiction that is applicable
to the offer or the subsequent merger.
State Takeover Laws
A number of states have adopted takeover laws and regulations
which purport, to varying degrees, to be applicable to attempts
to acquire securities of corporations which have substantial
assets, stockholders, principal executive offices or principal
places of business in those states. We have not attempted to
comply with any state takeover statutes in connection with the
offer, since we do not believe that any of these apply. However,
we reserve the right to challenge the validity or applicability
of any state law allegedly applicable to the offer, and nothing
in this Prospectus nor any action taken in connection herewith
is intended as a waiver of that right. If one or more takeover
statutes apply to the offer and are not found to be invalid, we
may be required to file documents with, or receive approvals
from, relevant state authorities and we may also be unable to
accept for exchange shares tendered into the offer or may delay
the offer. See The Offer Conditions of the
Offer beginning on page 64.
Stockholder Litigation
On or about September 29, 2005, an individual stockholder
of New Valley filed a complaint in the Delaware Court of
Chancery purporting to commence a class action lawsuit against
Vector, New Valley and each of the individual directors of New
Valley. The complaint was styled as Pill v. New Valley
Corporation, et al., (C.A. No. 1678-N). On or about
October 28, 2005, a separate action was filed in the
Delaware Court of Chancery purporting to commence a class action
lawsuit against Vector, New Valley and each of the individual
directors of New Valley. The complaint was styled as Lindstrom
v. LeBow, et al. (Civil Action No. 1745-N). In general,
these complaints allege, among other things: (1) breaches
of fiduciary duty by Vector, New Valley and the members of New
Valleys board in connection with the offer and the
subsequent merger; (2) that the consideration Vector is
offering is inadequate; and (3) that Vector is acting to
further its own interests at the expense of the holders of New
Valleys common shares. Among other remedies, these
complaints seek to enjoin the offer and subsequent merger or,
alternatively, damages in an unspecified amount and rescission
in the event the subsequent merger occurs. On November 9,
2005, the Delaware Court of Chancery entered an order of
consolidation providing that the Pill action and the
Lindstrom action be consolidated for all purposes. On
November 15, 2005, the Delaware Chancery Court entered an
order certifying the Pill action as a class action
comprised of all persons who owned common shares of New Valley
on October 20, 2005. On November 16, 2005, Vector and
the plaintiff class in the Pill action reached an
agreement to resolve the litigation. This agreement has been
memorialized in a memorandum of understanding, which all of the
parties to the Pill action have signed. The memorandum of
understanding provided, among other things, that (i) the
consideration being offered be raised from 0.461 shares of
Vector common stock per common share of New Valley to
0.54 shares of Vector common stock per common share of New
Valley; (ii) the plaintiff acknowledged that
0.54 shares of Vector common stock per common share of New
Valley was adequate and fair consideration; (iii) Vector
agreed to make supplemental disclosures in the Prospectus with
respect to the offer to address claims raised in the Pill
action; (iv) the plaintiff shall have the right to
comment upon and suggest additional disclosures to be made to
the public stockholders by New Valley prior to the filing of its
amended Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC and such suggested
additional disclosures will be considered in good faith for
inclusion in such filing by New Valley; and (v) all claims,
whether known or unknown, of the plaintiff shall be released as
against all of the defendants in the Pill matter and the
Lindstrom matter.
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On or about September 29, 2005, a separate action was filed
in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit in and for
Miami-Dade County, Florida against the same defendants as in the
Pill action and styled as Tombs v. New Valley
Corporation, et al. (Case No. 05-19623 CA 22). The Tombs
action alleges substantially similar claims and seeks
substantially similar remedies to the Pill action. Vector
believes that this lawsuit is without merit and will defend
against this lawsuit.
CERTAIN EFFECTS OF THE OFFER
Effects on the Market
If we successfully complete the offer, we intend to cause the
delisting of New Valleys common shares from The Nasdaq
Stock Market following completion of the subsequent merger.
Exchange Act Registration
If we are able to delist New Valleys common shares from
The Nasdaq Stock Market, we then plan to terminate registration
of New Valleys common shares under the Exchange Act upon
application to the SEC. In general, we can terminate
registration if the common shares of New Valley are no longer
listed on a securities exchange and there are fewer than 300
holders of record of New Valley common shares. The termination
of the registration of New Valleys common shares under the
Exchange Act would substantially reduce the information required
to be furnished by New Valley to its stockholders and to the
SEC. It would also make certain of the provisions of the
Exchange Act, such as the short-swing profit recovery provisions
of Section 16(b), the requirement of furnishing a proxy
statement in connection with stockholders meetings, the
related requirement of an annual report to stockholders, and the
requirements of SEC Rule 13e-3 with respect to going
private transactions, no longer applicable.
If we successfully complete the offer, following completion of
the subsequent merger, we will request that The Nasdaq Stock
Market file a Form 25 with the SEC terminating registration
of the common shares of New Valley under the Exchange Act.
Financing of the Offer
The shares of Vector common stock to be issued in the offer and
the subsequent merger will come from Vectors authorized
but unissued shares. Vectors fees and expenses in
connection with the offer will be paid from Vectors
available capital resources.
Conduct of New Valley if the Offer is Not Completed
If the offer is not completed because the minimum condition or
another condition is not satisfied or, if permissible, waived,
we expect that New Valley will continue to be a majority-owned
subsidiary of Vector and operate its business as presently
operated, subject to market and industry conditions and the
terms of the agreements and other documents described below
under Relationships With New Valley. We
have no intention to dispose of or entertain offers to acquire
our common shares of New Valley.
Relationships with New Valley
In considering whether to tender your shares in the offer, you
should be aware of various existing agreements and ongoing and
prior arrangements and transactions between Vector and/or VGR
Holding and New Valley, as described below. This description is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the specific
provisions of the documents described below that have been filed
with the SEC, which we incorporate by reference into this
Prospectus. You should also review Interests of Certain
Persons in the Offer and Subsequent Merger beginning on
page 72 for a description of arrangements between Vector
and New Valley and between New Valley and directors and
executive officers of New Valley.
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Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services Inc.: |
In December 2001, New Valley distributed its 53.6% interest
(22,543,158 shares) in Ladenburg Thalmann Financial
Services Inc., or LTS, common stock to holders of New Valley
common shares through a special dividend. New Valleys
stockholders received 0.988 of a LTS share for each share of New
Valley. On the same date, Vector distributed the
12,694,929 shares of LTS common stock that it received from
New Valley to the holders of Vectors common stock as a
special dividend. New Valley had acquired the LTS shares in May
2001, along with cash and an $8,010,000 7.5% convertible
promissory note due December 31, 2005 of LTS, in connection
with LTS acquisition of New Valleys 80.1%-owned
subsidiary, Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. As a result of the
distributions of the LTS shares, Mr. LeBow became the
beneficial owner of more than 5% of the LTS common stock. Since
May 2001, Mr. LeBow (until September 2003),
Mr. Lorber, Mr. Beinstein and Mr. Robert J. Eide,
a director of Vector, have served as directors of LTS,
Mr. Richard J. Lampen has served in that capacity since
January 2002, and Mr. Jeffrey S. Podell, a director of
Vector, has served in that capacity since October 2004.
Mr. Victor M. Rivas, a director of New Valley, served as
President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of LTS from
May 2001 until his retirement in March 2004, and Mr. J.
Bryant Kirkland III, Vectors Vice President and New
Valleys Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, served
as Chief Financial Officer of LTS from June 2001 until October
2002. In 2002, LTS accrued compensation of $100,000 for
Mr. Kirkland in connection with his services, which was
paid in four quarterly installments commencing April 1,
2003.
In November 2004, New Valley entered into a debt conversion
agreement with LTS and the other remaining holder of LTS
convertible notes. New Valley and the other holder agreed to
convert their notes, with an aggregate principal amount of
$18,010,000, together with the accrued interest, into common
stock of LTS. Pursuant to the debt conversion agreement, the
conversion price of the notes held by New Valley was reduced
from the previous conversion price of approximately $2.08 to
$0.50 per share, and New Valley and the other holder each
agreed to purchase $5,000,000 of LTS common stock at
$0.45 per share.
The note conversion transaction was approved by the LTS
shareholders in January 2005 and closed in March 2005. At the
closing, New Valleys note, representing approximately
$9,938,000 of principal and accrued interest, was converted into
19,876,358 shares of LTS common stock and New Valley
purchased 11,111,111 LTS shares.
LTS borrowed $1,750,000 from New Valley in 2004 and an
additional $1,750,000 in the first quarter 2005. The loans,
which bore interest at 2% above prime, were due on the earlier
of January 15, 2006 or the tenth business day following the
completion of one or more debt or equity financings where LTS
receives at least $10,000,000 in total proceeds. At the closing
of the note conversion agreement, New Valley delivered these
notes for cancellation as partial payment for its purchase of
LTS common stock.
On March 30, 2005, New Valley distributed the
19,876,358 shares of LTS common stock it acquired from the
conversion of the notes to holders of New Valley common shares
through a special dividend. On the same date, Vector distributed
the 10,947,448 shares of LTS common stock that it received
from New Valley to the holders of its common shares as a special
distribution. New Valleys stockholders of record as of
March 18, 2005 received 0.852 of a LTS share for each share
of New Valley, and Vectors stockholders of record on that
date received 0.23 of a LTS share for each share of Vector.
In March 2002, LTS borrowed $2,500,000 from New Valley. The
loan, which bears interest at 1% above the prime rate, was due
on December 31, 2003. In July 2002, LTS borrowed an
additional $2,500,000 from New Valley on the same terms. In
November 2002, New Valley agreed, in connection with a
$3,500,000 loan to LTS by an affiliate of its clearing broker,
to extend the maturity of the notes to December 31, 2006
and to subordinate the notes to the repayment of the loan.
New Valley evaluated its ability to collect the $13,198,000 of
notes receivable and related interest from LTS at
September 30, 2002. These notes receivable included the
$5,000,000 of notes issued in 2002 and the $8,010,000
convertible note issued to New Valley in May 2001. New Valley
determined, based on the then current trends in the
broker-dealer industry and LTS operating results and
liquidity needs, that a
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reserve for uncollectibility should be established against these
notes and interest receivable. As a result, New Valley recorded
a charge of $13,198,000 in the third quarter of 2002.
Following the March 2005 distribution, New Valley held the
11,111,111 shares of LTS common stock (approximately 9.0%
of the outstanding shares), the $5,000,000 of notes due
December 31, 2006 and a warrant to
purchase 100,000 shares of its common stock at
$1.00 per share.
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Expense Sharing Agreement: |
In 1995, New Valley and Vector entered into an expense sharing
agreement pursuant to which certain lease, legal support and
administrative expenses are allocated to the entity incurring
the expense. New Valley reimbursed Vector net amounts of
approximately $562,000 in 2004 under this agreement. This
arrangement with Vector has continued in 2005.
In March 1997, a stockholder derivative suit was filed in the
Delaware Chancery Court against New Valley, as a nominal
defendant, its directors and Brooke Group Holding Inc.
(Brooke Group Holding), an indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of Vector, by a stockholder of New Valley. The suit
alleges that New Valleys purchase in January 1997 of the
shares of BrookeMil Ltd., which was engaged in the real estate
business in Russia, from Brooke (Overseas) Ltd., an indirect
subsidiary of Brooke Group Holding, constituted a self-dealing
transaction which involved the payment of excessive
consideration by New Valley. The plaintiff sought a declaration
that New Valleys directors breached their fiduciary duties
and Brooke Group Holding aided and abetted such breaches and
that damages be awarded to New Valley. In December 1999, another
stockholder of New Valley commenced an action in Delaware
Chancery Court substantially similar to the March 1997 action.
This stockholder alleged, among other things, that the
consideration paid by New Valley for the BrookeMil shares was
excessive, unfair and wasteful, that the special committee of
New Valleys board lacked independence, and that the
appraisal and fairness opinion were flawed. By order of the
Court, both actions were consolidated. In January 2001, the
Court denied a motion to dismiss the consolidated action. In
March 2005, New Valley, its directors and Brooke Group Holding
settled the consolidated action. The defendants did not admit
any wrongdoing as part of the settlement. At a hearing held on
June 14, 2005, the court approved the settlement. No appeal
was taken and, therefore, the settlement is final. Under the
settlement, Vector paid New Valley $7,000,000 in July 2005, and
New Valley paid legal fees and expenses of $2,150,000. New
Valley recorded the receipt of $7,000,000 as additional
paid-in-capital in the third quarter of 2005. New Valley accrued
the legal fees and expenses of $2,150,000 during the year ended
December 31, 2004 and charged the amount to general and
administrative expenses.
In July 1999, a purported class action was commenced on behalf
of New Valleys former Class B preferred shareholders
against New Valley, Brooke Group Holding and certain directors
and officers of New Valley in Delaware Chancery Court. The
complaint alleged that the recapitalization, approved by a
majority of each class of New Valleys stockholders in May
1999, was fundamentally unfair to the Class B preferred
shareholders, the proxy statement relating to the
recapitalization was materially deficient and the defendants
breached their fiduciary duties to the Class B preferred
shareholders in approving the transaction. The Court dismissed
six of plaintiffs nine claims alleging inadequate
disclosure in the proxy statement. Brooke Group Holding and New
Valley filed a motion for summary judgment on the remaining
three claims, which was granted by the Court in May 2005. The
plaintiffs did not appeal the decision.
Accounting Treatment
Our acquisition of New Valleys common shares will be
accounted for under the purchase method of accounting in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the
U.S. Accordingly, the cost to acquire New Valleys
common shares in excess of approximately 57.7% of the carrying
value of New Valleys assets and liabilities will be
allocated on a pro rata basis to New Valleys assets and
liabilities based on their fair values, with any excess being
allocated to goodwill.
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Fees and Expenses
Financial Advisor: Jefferies is acting as our financial
advisor in connection with the proposed acquisition of New
Valleys common shares. Jefferies may also contact holders
of New Valley common shares by mail, telephone, telex, telegraph
and personal interview with respect to the offer and subsequent
merger. We will pay Jefferies a customary fee for these
services. We also have agreed to reimburse Jefferies for its
expenses, including reasonable counsel fees and expenses, and to
indemnify it against certain liabilities and expenses, including
certain liabilities under the U.S. federal securities laws.
Information Agent and Dealer Manager: We have retained
Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc. as Information Agent
and Georgeson Shareholder Securities Corporation as Dealer
Manager in connection with the offer. The Information Agent and
Dealer Manager may contact holders of New Valley common shares
by mail, telephone, telex, telegraph and personal interview and
may request brokers, dealers and other nominee stockholders to
forward material relating to the offer to beneficial owners of
New Valley common shares. We will pay the Information Agent and
Dealer Manager a customary fee for these services in addition to
reimbursing the Information Agent and Dealer Manager for its
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. We have agreed to indemnify
the Information Agent and Dealer Manager against certain
liabilities and expenses in connection with the offer, including
certain liabilities under the U.S. federal securities laws.
Exchange Agent and Depositary: In addition, we have
retained American Stock Transfer & Trust Company as the
Exchange Agent and Depositary with respect to the offer. We will
pay the Exchange Agent and Depositary a customary fee for its
services in connection with the offer, will reimburse the
Exchange Agent and Depositary for its reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses and will indemnify the Exchange Agent and Depositary
against certain liabilities and expenses in connection with the
performance of its services.
Soliciting Dealer Fees: Vector will pay a fee to
soliciting dealers of an amount equal to $0.10 for each validly
tendered and accepted common shares of New Valley in the offer
from beneficial owners of New Valley common shares, subject to a
maximum amount per holder or account of $10,000.00. Any fees
payable pursuant to this paragraph shall be paid in full to a
person designated, as described herein, as soliciting
dealer, if any. Reference to a soliciting
dealer shall not include the Dealer Manager.
A designated soliciting dealer is an entity obtaining the
tender, if the applicable Letter of Transmittal or agents
message includes its name under the heading Solicited
Tenders box, and it is:
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a broker or dealer in securities, including the Dealer Manager
in its capacity as a dealer or broker, which is a good standing
member of any national securities exchange or of the NASD; |
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a foreign broker or dealer not eligible for membership in the
NASD that agrees to conform to the NASDs Rules of Fair
Practice in soliciting tenders outside the United States to the
same extent as though it were an NASD member; or |
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a bank or trust company. |
Soliciting dealers will include any of the organizations
described above even when the activities of such organization in
connection with the offer consist solely of forwarding to
clients materials relating to the offer, including the
applicable Letter of Transmittal, and tendering common shares of
New Valley as directed by beneficial owners thereof. No
soliciting dealer is required to make any recommendation to
holders of common shares of New Valley as to whether to tender
or refrain from tendering in the offer. No assumption is made,
in making payment to any soliciting dealer, that its activities
in connection with the offer included any activities other than
those described in this paragraph. For all purposes noted in all
materials relating to the offer, the term solicit
shall be deemed to mean no more than processing securities
tendered or forwarding to customers materials
regarding the offer. No such soliciting dealer fee shall
be payable to a soliciting dealer with respect to the tender of
common shares of New Valley by a holder unless the Letter of
Transmittal or agents message accompanying such tender
designates such soliciting dealer.
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No such fee shall be paid to a soliciting dealer with respect to
common shares of New Valley tendered for such soliciting
dealers own account. If tendered common shares of New
Valley are registered in the name of such soliciting dealer, no
such fee shall be payable unless such common shares of New
Valley are held by such soliciting dealer as nominee and such
common shares of New Valley are being tendered for the benefit
of one or more beneficial owners identified on the applicable
Letter of Transmittal. You should complete the Solicited
Tenders box in the applicable Letter of Transmittal or
agents message to designate a soliciting dealer. No such
fee shall be payable to a soliciting dealer if such soliciting
dealer is required for any reason to transfer the amount of such
fee to a beneficial owner. No broker, dealer, bank, trust
company or fiduciary shall be deemed to be the agent of Vector,
the Exchange Agent and Depositary, the Information Agent or the
Dealer Manager for purposes of the offer. By accepting any
soliciting dealer fee, a person shall be deemed to have
represented that:
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it has complied with the applicable requirements of the
Securities Act, the Exchange Act, and the laws of any states or
jurisdictions in which it solicits exchange of common shares of
New Valley pursuant to the offer, including the prohibition
against paying directly or indirectly any fee (or any portion
thereof) receivable hereunder to or for the account of any
beneficial owner of common shares of New Valley; |
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it is entitled to such compensation for such solicitation under
the terms and conditions of the offer; |
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in soliciting tenders of common shares of New Valley, it has
used no soliciting materials other than those furnished by
Vector; and |
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if it is a foreign broker or dealer not eligible for membership
in the NASD, it has agreed to conform to the NASDs Rules
of Fair Practice in making solicitations. |
Other: We will reimburse brokers, dealers, commercial
banks and trust companies and other nominees, upon request, for
customary clerical and mailing expenses incurred by them in
forwarding offering materials to their customers.
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE OFFER AND SUBSEQUENT
MERGER
Some members of the management of New Valley and some members of
the New Valley board of directors, including those who are also
officers of New Valley, have interests in the proposed
transaction that may be different from, or in addition to, the
interests of the other stockholders of New Valley generally. The
information set forth herein is based on the publicly-filed
documents of New Valley that were available immediately
preceding the date of this Prospectus.
Directors and Executive Officers of New Valley
Mr. LeBow has been Chairman of the Board of New Valley
since January 1988 and Chief Executive Officer thereof since
November 1994. Mr. LeBow has been the Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer of Vector since June 1990 and a
director of Vector since October 1986, and currently holds
various positions with Vectors subsidiaries, which are
engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes. On
September 27, 2005, Vector announced that Mr. LeBow
had been named Executive Chairman of the Board effective
January 1, 2006.
Mr. Lorber has been President and Chief Operating Officer
of New Valley since November 1994, and a director of New Valley
since January 1991. Since January 2001, Mr. Lorber has
served as President, Chief Operating Officer and a director of
Vector. On September 27, 2005, Vector announced that
Mr. Lorber was named Chief Executive Officer of Vector
effective January 1, 2006 (he will continue to serve as
President and as a director).
Mr. Lampen has been Executive Vice President and General
Counsel of New Valley since October 1995 and has served as a
director of New Valley since July 1996. Since July 1996,
Mr. Lampen has served as Executive Vice President of Vector.
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Mr. Beinstein has been a director of New Valley since
November 1994. Mr. Beinstein has been a director of Vector
since March 2004.
Mr. Kirkland has been Vice President, Treasurer and Chief
Financial Officer of New Valley since January 1998.
Mr. Kirkland has served as a Vice President of Vector since
January 2001.
Marc N. Bell has been, since November 1994, Associate General
Counsel and Secretary of New Valley and, since February 1998,
Vice President of New Valley. Mr. Bell has served as a Vice
President of Vector since January 1998 and General Counsel of
Vector since 1994.
Employment Agreements
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Agreements with New Valley: |
Mr. LeBow is a party to an employment agreement with New
Valley dated as of June 1, 1995, as amended effective as of
January 1, 1996. The agreement had an initial term of three
years effective as of January 18, 1995, with an automatic
one-year extension on each anniversary of the effective date
unless notice of non-extension is given by either party within
the 60-day period before this date. As of January 1, 2005,
Mr. LeBows annual base salary was $2,000,000.
Following termination of his employment without cause, he would
continue to receive his base salary for a period of
36 months commencing with the next anniversary of the
effective date following the termination notice. Following
termination of his employment within two years of a
change-of-control, he would receive a lump sum payment equal to
2.99 times his then current base salary. Mr. LeBow is not
entitled to severance arising from completion of the offer and
the subsequent merger.
Mr. Lorber is a party to an employment agreement with New
Valley dated June 1, 1995, as amended effective as of
January 1, 1996. The agreement had an initial term of three
years effective as of January 18, 1995, with an automatic
one-year extension on each anniversary of the effective date
unless notice of non-extension is given by either party within
60 days before this date. As of January 1, 2005,
Mr. Lorbers annual base salary was $1,953,177.
Mr. Lorbers salary is subject to an annual cost of
living adjustment. In addition, New Valleys board must
periodically review this base salary and may increase but not
decrease it from time to time in its sole discretion. New
Valleys board may also award an annual bonus to
Mr. Lorber in its sole discretion. New Valleys board
awarded Mr. Lorber a bonus of $1,500,000 for 2004.
Following termination of his employment without cause, he would
continue to receive his base salary for a period of
36 months commencing with the next anniversary of the
effective date following the termination notice. Following
termination of his employment within two years of a
change-of-control, he would receive a lump sum payment equal to
2.99 times the sum of his then current base salary and the bonus
amounts earned by him for the twelve-month period ending with
the last day of the month immediately before the month in which
the termination occurs. Mr. Lorber is not entitled to
severance arising from completion of the offer and the
subsequent merger.
Mr. Lampen is a party to an employment agreement with New
Valley dated September 22, 1995. The agreement had an
initial term of two and a quarter years from October 1,
1995 with automatic renewals after the initial term for
additional one-year terms unless notice of non-renewal is given
by either party within the 90-day period before the termination
date. As of January 1, 2005, his annual base salary was
$750,000. In addition, New Valleys board may award an
annual bonus to Mr. Lampen in its sole discretion. New
Valleys board awarded Mr. Lampen a bonus of $100,000
for 2004. New Valleys board may increase but not decrease
Mr. Lampens base salary from time to time in its sole
discretion. Following termination of his employment without
cause, he would receive severance pay in a lump sum equal to the
amount of his base salary he would have received if he was
employed for one year after termination of his employment term.
Mr. Lampen is not entitled to severance arising from
completion of the offer and the subsequent merger.
Mr. Kirkland is a party to an employment agreement with New
Valley dated August 1, 1999. The agreement had an initial
term of one year from August 1, 1999 with automatic
renewals after the initial term for additional one-year terms
unless notice of non-renewal is given by either party within the
90-day
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period prior to the termination date. As of January 1,
2005, his annual base salary was $250,000. In addition, New
Valleys board may award an annual bonus to
Mr. Kirkland in its sole discretion. New Valleys
board awarded Mr. Kirkland a bonus of $50,000 for 2004. New
Valleys board may increase but not decrease
Mr. Kirklands base salary from time to time in its
sole discretion. Following termination of his employment without
cause, Mr. Kirkland would receive severance pay in a lump
sum equal to the amount of his base salary he would have
received if he was employed for one year after termination of
his employment term. Mr. Kirkland is not entitled to
severance arising from completion of the offer and the
subsequent merger.
Mr. LeBow is a party to an employment agreement with Vector
dated February 21, 1992, as amended July 20, 1998. The
agreement has a one-year term with automatic renewals for
additional one-year terms unless notice of non-renewal is given
by either party six months prior to the termination date. As of
January 1, 2005, Mr. LeBows annual base salary
from Vector was $1,739,501. He was also paid an annual bonus for
2004 of $869,750 and an annual payment equal to 10% of his base
salary in lieu of certain other executive benefits such as club
memberships, company-paid automobiles and other similar
perquisites. Following termination of his employment without
cause, he would continue to receive his then current base salary
and bonus for 24 months. Following termination of his
employment within two years of a change-of-control or in
connection with similar events, he would receive a lump sum
payment equal to 2.99 times his then current base salary and
bonus.
On September 27, 2005, Mr. Lorber was named Chief
Executive Officer of Vector (he will continue to serve as
President and as a director) and Mr. LeBow was named
Executive Chairman of the Board. These new appointments are
effective January 1, 2006.
In connection with the foregoing, on September 27, 2005,
Vector and Mr. LeBow entered into an Amended and Restated
Employment Agreement under which Mr. LeBow has agreed to
serve as the Executive Chairman of the Board of Vector from
January 1, 2006 through December 30, 2008, unless his
employment is terminated earlier in accordance with this Amended
Employment Agreement. This Amended Employment Agreement provides
that Mr. LeBow will receive an annual salary of $3,950,000
(less the base salary paid to Mr. LeBow by New Valley).
Following termination of Mr. LeBows employment or his
retirement, Mr. LeBow shall be subject to certain
non-competition, non-hire, and other provisions in favor of
Vector. This Amended Employment Agreement provides
Mr. LeBow will be treated as having reached normal
retirement date under Vectors Supplemental Retirement
Plan, or SERP, if he is employed through December 30, 2008.
In addition, Vector has agreed to establish a separate trust for
Mr. LeBow that is not subject to the claims of
Vectors creditors and shall make a contribution to such
trust of $125,000 per quarter during each year of this
employment term, and a proportional part of each payment to
Mr. LeBow under the SERP will be made from the assets of
such trust. In addition, for a period of five years following
such retirement, Mr. LeBow will be required to provide
consulting services and advice to Vector for up to 15 days
per year, for which he will be paid a daily fee of $17,000.
In addition, on September 27, 2005, Mr. Lorber was
awarded a restricted stock grant of 500,000 shares of
Vectors common stock and on November 16, 2005
Mr. Lorber was awarded an additional restricted stock grant
of 78,570 shares of Vectors common stock, in each case,
pursuant to Vectors Amended and Restated 1999 Long-Term
Incentive Plan. In connection with the grants, Vector entered
into separate Restricted Share Award Agreements with
Mr. Lorber on those dates. Pursuant to these Restricted
Share Agreements, one-fourth of the shares vest on
September 15, 2006, with an additional one-fourth vesting
on each of the three succeeding one-year anniversaries of the
first vesting date through September 15, 2009. In the event
Mr. Lorbers employment with Vector is terminated for
any reason other than his death, his disability or a change of
control (as defined in the Restricted Share Agreements) of
Vector, any remaining balance of the shares not previously
vested will be forfeited by Mr. Lorber.
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Mr. Lorber is also a party to an employment agreement with
Vector dated January 17, 2001. The agreement has an initial
term of three years from January 17, 2001, with an
automatic one-year extension on each anniversary of the
effective date unless notice of non-extension is given by either
party within 60 days before this date. As of
January 1, 2005, Mr. Lorbers annual base salary
was $538,893. Mr. Lorbers salary is subject to an
annual cost of living adjustment. In addition, our board must
periodically review this base salary and may increase but not
decrease it from time to time in its sole discretion. Our board
may also award an annual bonus to Mr. Lorber in its sole
discretion. Following termination of his employment without
cause, he would continue to receive his base salary for a period
of 36 months commencing with the next anniversary of the
effective date following the termination notice. Following
termination of his employment within two years of a
change-of-control, he would receive a lump sum payment equal to
2.99 times the sum of his then current base salary and the bonus
amounts earned by him for the twelve-month period ending with
the last day of the month immediately before the month in which
the termination occurs.
Mr. Bell is a party to an employment agreement with Vector
dated April 15, 1994. The agreement had an initial term of
two years from April 15, 1994 with automatic renewals after
the initial term for additional one-year terms unless notice of
non-renewal is given by either party within the 60-day period
prior to the termination date. As of January 1, 2005, his
annual base salary was $375,000. Our board may increase but not
decrease Mr. Bells base salary from time to time in
its sole discretion. Our board may also award an annual bonus to
Mr. Bell in its sole discretion. Our board awarded
Mr. Bell a bonus of $50,000 for 2004. Following termination
of his employment without cause, Mr. Bell would receive
severance pay in a lump sum equal to the amount of his base
salary he would have received if he was employed for one year
after termination of his employment term.
On November 16, 2005, Mr. Lorber entered into an
agreement to tender with Vector pursuant to which
Mr. Lorber agreed to tender all of his New Valley common
shares into our offer. See Background and Reasons for the
Offer and Subsequent Merger Agreements to
Tender beginning on page 41.
New Valley 2005 Restricted Share Award
On January 10, 2005, New Valley awarded Mr. Lorber,
the President and Chief Operating Officer of New Valley, a
restricted stock grant of 1,250,000 common shares of New Valley
pursuant to New Valleys 2000 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Under the terms of the award, one-seventh of the shares vested
on July 15, 2005, with an additional one-seventh vesting on
each of the five succeeding one-year anniversaries of the first
vesting date through July 15, 2010 and an additional
one-seventh vesting on January 15, 2011. In the event his
employment with New Valley is terminated for any reason other
than his death, his disability or a change of control of New
Valley or Vector, any remaining balance of the shares not
previously vested will be forfeited by him. On
September 27, 2005, in conjunction with
Mr. Lorbers election as Chief Executive Officer of
Vector effective January 1, 2006 and his receipt of a new
restricted stock grant from Vector, Mr. Lorber relinquished
and waived, as of that date, the unvested 1,071,429 common
shares of New Valley deliverable by New Valley to him in the
future under the terms of the January 10, 2005 restricted
share award agreement.
Compensation as Directors of New Valley
Mr. Beinstein is a non-employee director of New Valley and
a director of Vector. In 2004, each non-employee director of New
Valley received an annual fee of $35,000 for serving on the
board of directors, an annual fee of $60,000 for serving on the
executive committee thereof and a $1,000 fee for attendance at
each meeting of the board of directors or a committee thereof
other than the executive committee. Each director is reimbursed
for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in serving on the
board. Under New Valleys Non-Employee Directors Stock
Option Program, each non-employee director automatically was
granted an option to acquire 5,000 common shares of New Valley
upon reelection as a director at the 2005 annual meeting. The
exercise price for each option awarded under the program was the
fair market value of the common shares of New Valley on the date
of grant. Each option will be exercisable on the first
anniversary of the date of grant.
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Certain Relationships of Mr. Lorber
Mr. Lorber was the Chairman of the Board of
Hallman & Lorber in 2004 and, since January 2005, has
served as a consultant to such company. During 2004,
Mr. Lorber and Hallman & Lorber and its affiliates
received ordinary and customary insurance commissions
aggregating approximately $587,000 on various insurance policies
issued for Vector, New Valley and their subsidiaries and
investees. Mr. Lorber and Hallman & Lorber and its
affiliates have continued to provide services to Vector and New
Valley in 2005.
Mr. Lorber is a shareholder and registered representative
in Aegis Capital Corp., a broker-dealer to which New Valley paid
$46,000 in brokerage commissions and other income in 2004.
Mr. Eide is a stockholder, and serves as the Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer, of such firm. Aegis Capital has
continued to provide services to New Valley in 2005.
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF NEW VALLEY COMMON SHARES
AND HOLDERS OF VECTOR COMMON STOCK
Because New Valley and Vector are both organized under the laws
of the State of Delaware, the differences in the rights of a New
Valley stockholder and the rights of a Vector stockholder arise
from differences in the organizational documents of New Valley
and Vector, rather than from differences of law. The following
summary highlights material differences between the current
rights of holders of Vectors common stock and holders of
New Valleys common shares. This summary is not a complete
discussion of the certificates of incorporation and by-laws of
Vector and New Valley and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the specific provisions of these documents, which
we incorporate by reference into this Prospectus. Copies of each
companys certificate of incorporation and by-laws have
been filed with the SEC. See Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 79.
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New Valley |
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Vector |
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Capital Stock |
Authorized Stock |
New Valleys certificate of incorporation authorizes New
Valley to issue 50,000,000 common shares and
10,000,000 shares of preferred stock. |
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Vectors certificate of incorporation authorizes Vector to
issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock and 10,000,000 shares
of preferred stock. |
New Valleys board has the authority to issue one or more
series of preferred stock, having terms designated by New
Valleys board. |
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Vectors board has the authority to issue one or more
series of preferred stock, having terms designated by
Vectors board. |
As of November 22, 2005, there were 22,260,607 common
shares and no shares of preferred stock outstanding. New
Valleys common shares are listed on The Nasdaq Stock
Market. |
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As of November 22, 2005, there were 44,733,460 shares of
common stock and no shares of preferred stock outstanding.
Vectors common stock is listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. |
Voting Rights |
Each common share of New Valley entitles its holder to one vote
on all matters on which stockholders are entitled to vote |
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Each share of Vectors common stock entitles its holder to
one vote on all matters on which stockholders are entitled to
vote. |
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Notice of Stockholder Proposals |
New Valleys by-laws do not provide for advance notice of
stockholder proposals |
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Vectors by-laws do not provide for advance notice of
stockholder proposals. |
Board of Directors |
Number of Directors |
New Valleys by-laws provide that the number of directors
shall not be more than nine and less than three as shall be
determined from time to time by |
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Vectors by-laws provide that the number of directors may
be fixed, from time to time, by the affirmative vote of a
majority of the entire board or |
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New Valley |
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Vector |
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resolution of the board. New Valleys board is currently
composed of eight members. In addition, the by-laws provide that
the board may increase the number of directors above the maximum
specified above by such number as may at any time be required
under the provisions of the certificate of incorporation
entitling the holders of shares of any class or series, because
dividends on such shares are in arrears to an increase in the
number and to elect additional directors; and the board may
correspondingly reduce the number as so increased, at any time
when under the provisions of the certificate of incorporation
the holders of shares of any class or series have been divested
of such right of election and the directors elected by them have
therefore ceased to be directors.
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by action of the Vector stockholders. Vectors board is
currently composed of seven members. |
Classified Board |
All of New Valleys directors are in one class and elected
annually. |
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All of Vectors directors are in one class and elected
annually. |
Removal of Directors |
New Valleys by-laws provide that, except as otherwise
provided by statute, any director may be removed, either with or
without cause, at any time, by the stockholders. |
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Vectors certificate of incorporation and by-laws provide
that any director or the entire board may be removed, with or
without cause, by the holders of a majority of shares at the
time entitled to vote at any election of directors (whether or
not the board is classified). |
Filling of Board Vacancies |
New Valleys by-laws provide that newly created
directorships resulting from an increase in the number of
directors and vacancies in the board occasioned by the death,
resignation, removal or disqualification of a director may,
except as otherwise provided by statute, be filled, until
successors shall have been elected as prescribed in the by-laws
and shall have qualified, by vote of a majority of the directors
then in office, although less than a quorum exists, or by the
stockholders. |
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Vectors by-laws provide that any vacancy in the board,
whether arising from death, resignation, removal (with or
without cause), an increase in the number of directors or any
other cause, may be filled by the vote of a majority of the
directors then in office, though less than a quorum, or by the
sole remaining director or by the stockholders at the next
annual meeting thereof or at a special meeting thereof. Each
director so elected shall hold office until his successor shall
have been elected and qualified. |
Nomination of Directors |
Neither New Valleys certificate of incorporation nor
by-laws specifically provide for how directors are nominated. |
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Neither Vectors certificate of incorporation nor by- laws
specifically provide for how directors are nominated. |
Stockholders Voting Agreement |
New Valley has no Voting Agreement or similar arrangement. |
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Vector has no Voting Agreement or similar arrangement. |
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New Valley |
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Vector |
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Other Matters |
Calling Special Meetings of Stockholders |
New Valleys by-laws provide that a special meeting of
stockholders, other than meetings regulated by statute, may be
called at any time by resolution of the board, and shall be
called by the Chairman of the Board or in his absence the
President, and in his absence, the Secretary on request in
writing of a majority of the directors or of any stockholder or
stockholders holding of record shares of New Valley capital
stock entitled to at least 25 percent of the votes entitled
to be cast at such meeting. |
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Vectors by-laws provide that special meetings of
stockholders, unless otherwise prescribed by statute, may be
called at any time by the board or by the Chairman of the Board
or, in his absence, the President and shall be called by the
Secretary upon the request in writing of a stockholder or
stockholders holding of record at least 25 percent of the
voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of Vector
stock entitled to vote at such meeting. |
Stockholder Action by Written Consent |
Delaware law provides that stockholders may act by written
consent unless otherwise provided in the certificate of
incorporation (neither New Valleys certificate of
incorporation nor by-laws provide for stockholder action by
written consent). |
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Vectors by-laws provide that stockholders may take action
by written consent, if the consent sets forth the action so
taken, is signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not
less than the minimum number of votes necessary to authorize or
take such action at a meeting at which all shares of Vector
stock entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. |
Business Combinations |
Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
(relating to Business Combinations with Interested Stockholders)
applies to New Valley. |
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Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
(relating to Business Combinations with Interested Stockholders)
applies to Vector. |
Stockholders Rights Plan |
New Valley has not adopted a stockholders rights plan. |
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Vector has not adopted a stockholders rights plan. |
Amendment of Organizational Documents |
Certificate of Incorporation |
New Valleys certificate of incorporation does not
specifically provide for amending the certificate of
incorporation. However, Section 242 of the Delaware General
Corporation Law authorizes amendments to the certificate of
incorporation. |
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Vectors certificate of incorporation provides that Vector
reserves the right to amend, alter, change or repeal any
provision contained in the certificate of incorporation. |
By-Laws |
New Valleys certificate of incorporation and by-laws
provides that the by-laws may be amended or repealed by the
board by the vote of a majority of the directors present at a
meeting of the board at which a quorum is present. In addition,
the by-laws provide that the by-laws may be amended or repealed
at any stockholders meeting by the vote of a majority
interest of the stockholders present in person or by proxy
thereat, a quorum being present; provided notice of the proposed
amendment or alteration was included in the notice of such
meeting. |
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Vectors by-laws provide that the by-laws may be amended or
repealed (1) by action of the stockholders entitled to vote
thereon at any annual or special meeting of stockholders or
(2) if the certificate of incorporation so provides, by
action of the board at a regular or special meeting thereof. The
by-laws also provide that any by-law made by the board may be
amended or repealed by action of the stockholders at any annual
or special meeting of stockholders. |
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Vector and New Valley file annual, quarterly and special
reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.
You may read and copy any reports, statements or other
information that Vector and New Valley file at the SECs
public reference room at 100 F. Street, N.E., Washington D.C.
20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for more
information on the public reference rooms.
Vector and New Valleys SEC filings are also available to
the public from commercial retrieval services and at the website
maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.
We filed a Registration Statement on Form S-4 to register
with the SEC the Vector common stock we will issue pursuant to
the offer and the subsequent merger. This Prospectus is a part
of that Registration Statement. As allowed by SEC rules, this
Prospectus does not contain all the information you can find in
the Registration Statement or the exhibits to the Registration
Statement. We also filed with the SEC a tender offer statement
on Schedule TO pursuant to Rule 14d-3 under the
Exchange Act in connection with our offer. You may obtain copies
of the Form S-4 and the Schedule TO (and any
amendments to those documents) in the manner described above.
On November 2, 2005 New Valley filed with the SEC a
solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9
regarding the original offer commenced on October 20, 2005.
You may obtain a copy of the Schedule 14D-9 after it is
filed (and any amendments to that document) in the manner
described above.
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference
information into this Prospectus, which means that we can
disclose important information to you by referring you to
another document filed separately with the SEC. The information
incorporated by reference is deemed to be part of this
Prospectus, except for any information superseded by information
contained directly in this Prospectus or in a later filed
document incorporated by reference in this Prospectus. This
Prospectus incorporates by reference the documents set forth
below that Vector and New Valley have previously filed with the
SEC. These documents contain important information about Vector
and New Valley.
VECTOR SEC FILINGS
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Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended.
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For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004. |
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.
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For the fiscal quarters ended March 31, June 30, and
September 30, 2005. |
Current Reports on Form 8-K.
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Filed on January 11, 2005, February 2, 2005,
February 17, 2005, February 24, 2005, March 3,
2005, March 7, 2005, March 17, 2005, March 21,
2005, April 1, 2005, April 14, 2005, May 10,
2005, June 20, 2005, July 22, 2005, August 9,
2005, September 28, 2005, November 9, 2005,
November 14, 2005 and November 17, 2005, respectively. |
The description of Vectors common stock in our prospectus
dated June 3, 2005 filed on Form 424B3 |
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Filed on June 3, 2005. |
79
NEW VALLEY SEC FILINGS
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Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended.
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For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004. |
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.
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For the fiscal quarters ended March 31, June 30, and
September 30, 2005. |
Current Reports on Form 8-K.
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Filed on January 12, 2005, February 17, 2005,
March 21, 2005, June 20, 2005, July 22, 2005,
August 25, 2005, September 28, 2005 and
October 27, 2005, respectively. |
The description of New Valleys common shares in its
Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 21, 2000. |
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Filed on September 22, 2000. |
All documents filed by Vector and New Valley pursuant to
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act with
the SEC from the date of this Prospectus to the date that common
shares of New Valley are accepted for exchange pursuant to our
offer and the period for perfecting appraisal rights in
connection with the subsequent merger is concluded (or the date
that our offer is terminated) are also deemed to be incorporated
by reference into this Prospectus.
All information contained in, or incorporated by reference into,
this Prospectus relating to Vector was provided by Vector.
Vector has included in this offer information concerning New
Valley known to Vector. Vector has no knowledge that would
indicate that statements relating to New Valley contained or
incorporated by reference in this offer to exchange are
inaccurate or incomplete.
Documents incorporated by reference are available from us
without charge upon written or oral request of New Valley
stockholders to the Information Agent for the proposed
transaction, Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc.,
17 State Street, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10004, toll
free at (877) 388-2794. Exhibits to these documents will
only be furnished if they are specifically incorporated by
reference in this document. If you request any incorporated
documents from us, we will mail them to you by first class mail,
or another equally prompt means, within one business day after
we receive your request.
LEGAL MATTERS
Legal matters in connection with the issuance and sale of the
securities offered hereby as well as certain legal matters with
respect to federal income tax consequences for New Valley
stockholders of the offer and subsequent merger will be passed
upon by Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP of New
York, New York.
EXPERTS
The financial statements and managements assessment of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting
(which is included in Managements Report on Internal
Control over Financial Reporting) of Vector Group Ltd.
incorporated in this Prospectus by reference to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2004 have been so incorporated in reliance on the report of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered certified
public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.
The financial statements of New Valley Corporation incorporated
in this Prospectus by reference to the Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 have
been so incorporated in reliance on the report of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered certified
public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.
The financial statements of Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC
incorporated in this Prospectus by reference to the Vector Group
Ltd. Annual Report on Form 10-K/A Amendment No. 1 for
the year ended December 31, 2004 have been so incorporated
in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers
80
LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, given on
the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
The financial statements of Koa Investors, LLC incorporated in
this Prospectus by reference to the Vector Group Ltd. Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A Amendment No. 1 for the year
ended December 31, 2004 have been so incorporated in
reliance on the report of Weiser LLP, an independent registered
public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.
MISCELLANEOUS
The offer is being made solely by this Prospectus and the
related Letter of Transmittal and is being made to holders of
all outstanding common shares of New Valley. We are not aware of
any jurisdiction where the making of the offer is prohibited by
any administrative or judicial action pursuant to any valid
state statute. If we become aware of any valid state statute
prohibiting the making of the offer or the acceptance of shares
pursuant thereto, we will make a good faith effort to comply
with any such state statute. If, after making a good faith
effort, we cannot comply with that state statute, the offer will
not be made to (nor will tenders be accepted from or on behalf
of) the holders of shares in that state. In any jurisdiction
where the securities, blue sky or other laws require the offer
to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the offer shall be
deemed to be made on our behalf by one or more registered
brokers or dealers licensed under the laws of that jurisdiction.
No person has been authorized to give any information or make
any representation on behalf of Vector or VGR Holding not
contained in this Prospectus or in the Letter of Transmittal,
and if given or made, such information or representation must
not be relied upon as having been authorized.
81
ANNEX A
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE DIRECTORS
AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF VECTOR AND VGR HOLDING
The following table sets forth for each executive officer and
director of Vector and each executive officer and director of
VGR Holding, his or her name, business or residence address,
principal occupation or employment at the present time and
during the last five years, and the name of any corporation or
other organization in which such employment is conducted or was
conducted. All of the persons listed below are citizens of the
United States of America. During the past five years, none of
the executive officers or directors of Vector nor any of the
executive officers or directors of VGR Holding have been
convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations
or similar misdemeanors) or was a party to a civil proceeding of
a judicial or administrative body of competent jurisdiction as a
result of which the person was or is subject to a judgment,
decree or final order enjoining future violations of, or
prohibiting activities subject to, federal or state securities
laws or finding any violation of these laws. Unless otherwise
indicated, the principal business address of each director and
executive officer is 100 S.E. Second Street, Miami, Florida
33131.
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Present Occupation or Employment, |
Name and Title |
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Five-Year Employment History and Address |
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Bennett S. LeBow Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer of
Vector, VGR Holding and New Valley |
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Bennett S. LeBow has been Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of Vector since June 1990 and has been a
director of Vector since October 1986. Since November 1990, he
has been Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
VGR Holding Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vector, which
directly or indirectly holds the Vectors equity interests
in several private and public companies. Effective
January 1, 2006, Mr. LeBow will serve as Executive
Chairman of the Board of Vector and VGR Holding. Mr. LeBow
has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Vector
Tobacco Inc., a subsidiary of Vector engaged in the development
and marketing of low nicotine and nicotine-free cigarette
products and the development of reduced risk cigarette products,
since January 2001 and as a director since October 1999.
Mr. LeBow has been Chairman of the Board of New Valley, a
majority-owned subsidiary of Vector engaged in the real estate
business and seeking to acquire additional operating companies
and real estate properties, since January 1988 and Chief
Executive Officer since November 1994. |
Howard M. Lorber President, Chief Operating Officer and
director of Vector, VGR Holding and New Valley |
|
Howard M. Lorber has been President, Chief Operating Officer and
a director of Vector and VGR Holding since January 2001.
Effective January 1, 2006, Mr. Lorber will serve as
President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of Vector and
VGR Holding. Since November 1994, Mr. Lorber has served as
President and Chief Operating Officer of New Valley, where he
also serves as a director. Mr. Lorber was Chairman of the
Board of Directors of Hallman & Lorber Assoc. Inc.,
consultants and actuaries of qualified |
A-1
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Present Occupation or Employment, |
Name and Title |
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Five-Year Employment History and Address |
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pension and profit sharing plans, and various of its affiliates
from 1975 to December 2004 and has been a consultant to these
entities since January 2005; a stockholder and a registered
representative of Aegis Capital Corp., a broker-dealer and a
member firm of the National Association of Securities Dealers,
since 1984; Chairman of the Board of Directors since 1987 and
Chief Executive Officer since November 1993 of Nathans
Famous, Inc., a chain of fast food restaurants; a consultant to
Vector and its Liggett Group Inc. subsidiary from January 1994
to January 2001; a director of United Capital Corp., a real
estate investment and diversified manufacturing company, since
May 1991; and the Chairman of the Board of Ladenburg Thalmann
Financial Services since May 2001. |
Ronald J. Bernstein Director of Vector and VGR Holding.
President and Chief Executive Officer of
Liggett and Liggett Vector Brands |
|
Ronald J. Bernstein has been a director of Vector and VGR
Holding since March 2004. Mr. Bernstein has served as
President and Chief Executive Officer of Liggett since
September 1, 2000 and of Liggett Vector Brands since March
2002. From July 1996 to December 1999, Mr. Bernstein served
as General Director and, from December 1999 to September 2000,
as Chairman of Liggett-Ducat Ltd., Vectors former Russian
tobacco business sold in 2000. Prior to that time,
Mr. Bernstein served in various positions with Liggett
commencing in 1991, including Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer. |
Henry C. Beinstein Director of Vector, VGR Holding and New Valley |
|
Henry C. Beinstein has been a director of Vector and VGR Holding
since March 2004. Since January 2005, Mr. Beinstein has
been a partner of Gagnon Securities LLC, a broker-dealer, and
has been a money manager and registered representative at such
firm since August 2002. He retired in August 2002 as the
Executive Director of Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP, a New
York-based law firm, a position he had held since August 1997.
Before that, Mr. Beinstein had served as the Managing
Director of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP, a New
York-based law firm, commencing November 1995.
Mr. Beinstein was the Executive Director of Proskauer Rose
LLP, a New York-based law firm, from April 1985 through October
1995. Mr. Beinstein is a certified public accountant in New
York and New Jersey and prior to joining Proskauer was a partner
and National Director of Finance and Administration at
Coopers & Lybrand. Mr. Beinstein has been a
director of Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services since May 2001
and a director of New Valley since November 1994. |
Robert J. Eide Director of Vector and VGR Holding |
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Robert J. Eide has been a director of Vector and VGR Holding
since November 1993. Mr. Eide has been the Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer of |
A-2
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Present Occupation or Employment, |
Name and Title |
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Five-Year Employment History and Address |
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Aegis Capital Corp., a registered broker-dealer, since 1984.
Mr. Eide also serves as a director of Nathans Famous,
Inc. and Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services. |
Jeffrey S. Podell Director of Vector and VGR Holding |
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Jeffrey S. Podell has been a director of Vector and VGR Holding
since November 1993. Mr. Podell has been the Chairman of
the Board and President of Newsote, Inc., a privately-held
holding company, since 1989. Mr. Podell also serves as a
director of Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services. |
Jean E. Sharpe Director of Vector and VGR Holding |
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Jean E. Sharpe has been a director of Vector and VGR Holding
since May 1998. Ms. Sharpe is a private investor and has
engaged in various philanthropic activities since her retirement
in September 1993 as Executive Vice President and Secretary of
Vector and as an officer of various of its subsidiaries.
Ms. Sharpe previously served as a director of Vector from
July 1990 until September 1993. |
Richard J. Lampen Executive Vice President of Vector
and VGR Holding. Executive Vice President,
General Counsel and director of New Valley |
|
Richard J. Lampen has been Executive Vice President of Vector
and VGR Holding since July 1996, and has served as Executive
Vice President and General Counsel of New Valley since October
1995. Since November 1998, Mr. Lampen has served as
President and Chief Executive Officer of CDSI Holdings Inc., an
affiliate of New Valley with an interest in a direct mail and
telemarketing services company. Mr. Lampen serves as a
director of New Valley, CDSI and Ladenburg Thalmann Financial
Services. |
Marc N. Bell Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary of Vector and VGR Holding.
Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Secretary of New
Valley |
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Marc N. Bell has been the Vice President of Vector and VGR
Holding since January 1998, the General Counsel and Secretary of
Vector and VGR Holding since May 1994, and the Senior Vice
President and General Counsel of Vector Tobacco since April
2002. Since November 1994, Mr. Bell has served as Associate
General Counsel and Secretary of New Valley and since February
1998, as Vice President of New Valley. |
Joselynn D. Van Siclen Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
and
Treasurer of Vector and VGR Holding |
|
Joselynn D. Van Siclen has been Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer of Vector and VGR Holding, and currently
holds various positions with certain of VGR Holdings
subsidiaries, including Vice President and Treasurer of Eve
Holdings Inc. since April 1994 and May 1996, respectively. Prior
to May 1996, Ms. Van Siclen served as Vectors
Director of Finance and was employed in various accounting
capacities with our subsidiaries since 1992. |
A-3
ANNEX B
INTERESTS OF VECTOR AND THE DIRECTORS,
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND AFFILIATES OF VECTOR
IN COMMON SHARES OF NEW VALLEY
The following table sets forth the interests by Vector and VGR
Holding and their respective directors and executive officers in
the shares of New Valley, as of November 22, 2005. Unless
otherwise indicated, neither Vector nor VGR Holding has and none
of the directors or executive officers of Vector or VGR Holding
has bought or sold any shares of New Valley within the past
60 days.
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Number of Common Shares | |
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Percentage of Outstanding | |
Name |
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Beneficially Owned | |
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Common Shares | |
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Bennett S. LeBow
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12,849,118 |
(1) |
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57.7 |
% |
Vector Group Ltd.
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VGR Holding Inc.
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Howard M. Lorber
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963,941 |
(2) |
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4.3 |
% |
Henry C. Beinstein
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41,499 |
(3) |
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* |
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Robert J. Eide
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5 |
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* |
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(1) |
VGR Holding exercises sole voting power and sole dispositive
power over 12,849,118 common shares of New Valley. Each of
Vector and Mr. LeBow disclaims beneficial ownership of
these shares under Rule 13d-3, or for any other purpose. |
|
(2) |
Includes 778,608 common shares of New Valley held directly by
Mr. Lorber, 120,000 common shares of New Valley held by
Lorber Alpha II Partnership, a Nevada limited partnership,
and 65,333 common shares of New Valley subject to currently
exercisable employee stock options. Lorber Alpha II, Inc.,
a Nevada corporation, is the general partner of Lorber
Alpha II Partnership. Mr. Lorber is the director,
officer and principal stockholder of Lorber Alpha II, Inc. |
|
(3) |
Includes 833 common shares of New Valley beneficially owned by
his spouse, as to which shares Mr. Beinstein disclaims
beneficial ownership, and 30,000 common shares of New Valley
issuable upon exercise of options exercisable within
60 days of November 22, 2005. |
B-1
ANNEX C
SECTION 262 OF GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE
§ 262. Appraisal
rights.
(a) Any stockholder of a corporation of this State who
holds shares of stock on the date of the making of a demand
pursuant to subsection (d) of this section with
respect to such shares, who continuously holds such shares
through the effective date of the merger or consolidation, who
has otherwise complied with subsection (d) of this
section and who has neither voted in favor of the merger or
consolidation nor consented thereto in writing pursuant to
§ 228 of this title shall be entitled to an appraisal
by the Court of Chancery of the fair value of the
stockholders shares of stock under the circumstances
described in subsections (b) and (c) of this section.
As used in this section, the word stockholder means
a holder of record of stock in a stock corporation and also a
member of record of a nonstock corporation; the words
stock and share mean and include what is
ordinarily meant by those words and also membership or
membership interest of a member of a nonstock corporation; and
the words depository receipt mean a receipt or other
instrument issued by a depository representing an interest in
one or more shares, or fractions thereof, solely of stock of a
corporation, which stock is deposited with the depository.
(b) Appraisal rights shall be available for the shares of
any class or series of stock of a constituent corporation in a
merger or consolidation to be effected pursuant to
§ 251 (other than a merger effected pursuant to
§ 251(g) of this title), § 252,
§ 254, § 257, § 258,
§ 263 or § 264 of this title:
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(1) Provided, however, that no appraisal rights under this
section shall be available for the shares of any class or series
of stock, which stock, or depository receipts in respect
thereof, at the record date fixed to determine the stockholders
entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the meeting of
stockholders to act upon the agreement of merger or
consolidation, were either (i) listed on a national
securities exchange or designated as a national market system
security on an interdealer quotation system by the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held of
record by more than 2,000 holders; and further provided that no
appraisal rights shall be available for any shares of stock of
the constituent corporation surviving a merger if the merger did
not require for its approval the vote of the stockholders of the
surviving corporation as provided in subsection (f) of
§ 251 of this title. |
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(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection,
appraisal rights under this section shall be available for the
shares of any class or series of stock of a constituent
corporation if the holders thereof are required by the terms of
an agreement of merger or consolidation pursuant to
§§ 251, 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this
title to accept for such stock anything except: |
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a. Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or
resulting from such merger or consolidation, or depository
receipts in respect thereof; |
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b. Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository
receipts in respect thereof, which shares of stock (or
depository receipts in respect thereof) or depository receipts
at the effective date of the merger or consolidation will be
either listed on a national securities exchange or designated as
a national market system security on an interdealer quotation
system by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
or held of record by more than 2,000 holders; |
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c. Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional
depository receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a.
and b. of this paragraph; or |
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d. Any combination of the shares of stock, depository
receipts and cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional
depository receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a.,
b. and c. of this paragraph. |
C-1
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(3) In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware
corporation party to a merger effected under § 253 of
this title is not owned by the parent corporation immediately
prior to the merger, appraisal rights shall be available for the
shares of the subsidiary Delaware corporation. |
(c) Any corporation may provide in its certificate of
incorporation that appraisal rights under this section shall be
available for the shares of any class or series of its stock as
a result of an amendment to its certificate of incorporation,
any merger or consolidation in which the corporation is a
constituent corporation or the sale of all or substantially all
of the assets of the corporation. If the certificate of
incorporation contains such a provision, the procedures of this
section, including those set forth in subsections (d) and
(e) of this section, shall apply as nearly as is
practicable.
(d) Appraisal rights shall be perfected as follows:
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(1) If a proposed merger or consolidation for which
appraisal rights are provided under this section is to be
submitted for approval at a meeting of stockholders, the
corporation, not less than 20 days prior to the meeting,
shall notify each of its stockholders who was such on the record
date for such meeting with respect to shares for which appraisal
rights are available pursuant to subsection (b) or
(c) hereof that appraisal rights are available for any or
all of the shares of the constituent corporations, and shall
include in such notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder
electing to demand the appraisal of such stockholders
shares shall deliver to the corporation, before the taking of
the vote on the merger or consolidation, a written demand for
appraisal of such stockholders shares. Such demand will be
sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of the
identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends
thereby to demand the appraisal of such stockholders
shares. A proxy or vote against the merger or consolidation
shall not constitute such a demand. A stockholder electing to
take such action must do so by a separate written demand as
herein provided. Within 10 days after the effective date of
such merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting
corporation shall notify each stockholder of each constituent
corporation who has complied with this subsection and has not
voted in favor of or consented to the merger or consolidation of
the date that the merger or consolidation has become
effective; or |
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(2) If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to
§ 228 or § 253 of this title, then either a
constituent corporation before the effective date of the merger
or consolidation or the surviving or resulting corporation
within 10 days thereafter shall notify each of the holders
of any class or series of stock of such constituent corporation
who are entitled to appraisal rights of the approval of the
merger or consolidation and that appraisal rights are available
for any or all shares of such class or series of stock of such
constituent corporation, and shall include in such notice a copy
of this section. Such notice may, and, if given on or after the
effective date of the merger or consolidation, shall, also
notify such stockholders of the effective date of the merger or
consolidation. Any stockholder entitled to appraisal rights may,
within 20 days after the date of mailing of such notice,
demand in writing from the surviving or resulting corporation
the appraisal of such holders shares. Such demand will be
sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of the
identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends
thereby to demand the appraisal of such holders shares. If
such notice did not notify stockholders of the effective date of
the merger or consolidation, either (i) each such
constituent corporation shall send a second notice before the
effective date of the merger or consolidation notifying each of
the holders of any class or series of stock of such constituent
corporation that are entitled to appraisal rights of the
effective date of the merger or consolidation or (ii) the
surviving or resulting corporation shall send such a second
notice to all such holders on or within 10 days after such
effective date; provided, however, that if such second notice is
sent more than 20 days following the sending of the first
notice, such second notice need only be sent to each stockholder
who is entitled to appraisal rights and who has demanded
appraisal of such holders shares in accordance with this
subsection. An affidavit of the secretary or assistant secretary
or of the transfer agent of the corporation that is required to
give either notice that such notice has been given shall, in the
absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated
therein. For purposes of determining the stockholders entitled
to receive either notice, each constituent corporation may fix,
in advance, a record date that shall be not more than
10 days prior to the date the notice is given, |
C-2
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provided, that if the notice is given on or after the effective
date of the merger or consolidation, the record date shall be
such effective date. If no record date is fixed and the notice
is given prior to the effective date, the record date shall be
the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which
the notice is given. |
(e) Within 120 days after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting corporation
or any stockholder who has complied with subsections
(a) and (d) hereof and who is otherwise entitled to
appraisal rights, may file a petition in the Court of Chancery
demanding a determination of the value of the stock of all such
stockholders. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time within
60 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder shall have the right to withdraw
such stockholders demand for appraisal and to accept the
terms offered upon the merger or consolidation. Within
120 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder who has complied with the
requirements of subsections (a) and (d) hereof, upon
written request, shall be entitled to receive from the
corporation surviving the merger or resulting from the
consolidation a statement setting forth the aggregate number of
shares not voted in favor of the merger or consolidation and
with respect to which demands for appraisal have been received
and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. Such written
statement shall be mailed to the stockholder within 10 days
after such stockholders written request for such a
statement is received by the surviving or resulting corporation
or within 10 days after expiration of the period for
delivery of demands for appraisal under
subsection (d) hereof, whichever is later.
(f) Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder,
service of a copy thereof shall be made upon the surviving or
resulting corporation, which shall within 20 days after
such service file in the office of the Register in Chancery in
which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing the
names and addresses of all stockholders who have demanded
payment for their shares and with whom agreements as to the
value of their shares have not been reached by the surviving or
resulting corporation. If the petition shall be filed by the
surviving or resulting corporation, the petition shall be
accompanied by such a duly verified list. The Register in
Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall give notice of the
time and place fixed for the hearing of such petition by
registered or certified mail to the surviving or resulting
corporation and to the stockholders shown on the list at the
addresses therein stated. Such notice shall also be given by 1
or more publications at least 1 week before the day of the
hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation published in the
City of Wilmington, Delaware or such publication as the Court
deems advisable. The forms of the notices by mail and by
publication shall be approved by the Court, and the costs
thereof shall be borne by the surviving or resulting corporation.
(g) At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall
determine the stockholders who have complied with this section
and who have become entitled to appraisal rights. The Court may
require the stockholders who have demanded an appraisal for
their shares and who hold stock represented by certificates to
submit their certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery
for notation thereon of the pendency of the appraisal
proceedings; and if any stockholder fails to comply with such
direction, the Court may dismiss the proceedings as to such
stockholder.
(h) After determining the stockholders entitled to an
appraisal, the Court shall appraise the shares, determining
their fair value exclusive of any element of value arising from
the accomplishment or expectation of the merger or
consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to
be paid upon the amount determined to be the fair value. In
determining such fair value, the Court shall take into account
all relevant factors. In determining the fair rate of interest,
the Court may consider all relevant factors, including the rate
of interest which the surviving or resulting corporation would
have had to pay to borrow money during the pendency of the
proceeding. Upon application by the surviving or resulting
corporation or by any stockholder entitled to participate in the
appraisal proceeding, the Court may, in its discretion, permit
discovery or other pretrial proceedings and may proceed to trial
upon the appraisal prior to the final determination of the
stockholder entitled to an appraisal. Any stockholder whose name
appears on the list filed by the surviving or resulting
corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this section
and who has submitted such stockholders certificates of
stock to the Register in Chancery, if such is required, may
C-3
participate fully in all proceedings until it is finally
determined that such stockholder is not entitled to appraisal
rights under this section.
(i) The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of
the shares, together with interest, if any, by the surviving or
resulting corporation to the stockholders entitled thereto.
Interest may be simple or compound, as the Court may direct.
Payment shall be so made to each such stockholder, in the case
of holders of uncertificated stock forthwith, and the case of
holders of shares represented by certificates upon the surrender
to the corporation of the certificates representing such stock.
The Courts decree may be enforced as other decrees in the
Court of Chancery may be enforced, whether such surviving or
resulting corporation be a corporation of this State or of any
state.
(j) The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the
Court and taxed upon the parties as the Court deems equitable in
the circumstances. Upon application of a stockholder, the Court
may order all or a portion of the expenses incurred by any
stockholder in connection with the appraisal proceeding,
including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees
and the fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata
against the value of all the shares entitled to an appraisal.
(k) From and after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, no stockholder who has demanded appraisal rights
as provided in subsection (d) of this section shall be
entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or to receive
payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock (except
dividends or other distributions payable to stockholders of
record at a date which is prior to the effective date of the
merger or consolidation); provided, however, that if no petition
for an appraisal shall be filed within the time provided in
subsection (e) of this section, or if such stockholder
shall deliver to the surviving or resulting corporation a
written withdrawal of such stockholders demand for an
appraisal and an acceptance of the merger or consolidation,
either within 60 days after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation as provided in
subsection (e) of this section or thereafter with the
written approval of the corporation, then the right of such
stockholder to an appraisal shall cease. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, no appraisal proceeding in the Court of Chancery
shall be dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval of
the Court, and such approval may be conditioned upon such terms
as the Court deems just.
(l) The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to
which the shares of such objecting stockholders would have been
converted had they assented to the merger or consolidation shall
have the status of authorized and unissued shares of the
surviving or resulting corporation.
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ANNEX D
OPINION OF JEFFERIES & COMPANY, INC.
November 16, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VECTOR GROUP LTD.
International Plaza
100 S.E. Second Street, 32nd Floor
Miami, FL 33131
Members of the Board of Directors:
We understand that Vector Group Ltd. (the Company)
has commenced an exchange offer for all of the common stock of
New Valley Corporation (New Valley) not owned by the
Company or its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the
Transaction), and that the Company intends to amend
the previously announced exchange offer such that each
outstanding share of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share, of New Valley (the New Valley Common Stock),
will be exchanged for 0.540 shares (the Exchange
Ratio) of common stock, par value $0.10 per share, of
the Company (the Company Common Stock). You have
advised us that the Company currently owns approximately 57.7%
of the issued and outstanding shares of New Valley Common Stock,
and that the exchange offer will be conditioned upon, among
other things, a sufficient number of shares of New Valley Common
Stock being validly tendered pursuant to the exchange offer such
that the Company will own at least 90% of the outstanding New
Valley Common Stock. You have advised us that assuming
successful completion of the exchange offer, the Company will
effect a short-form merger under Delaware law with the result
that New Valley will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Company and that all New Valley stockholders who did not
participate in the exchange offer will receive the same Exchange
Ratio for their shares of New Valley common stock.
Jefferies & Company, Inc. (Jefferies), as
part of its investment banking business, is regularly engaged in
the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection
with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings,
competitive biddings, secondary distributions of listed and
unlisted securities, private placements, financial
restructurings and other financial services. We have been
engaged by the Company to render a fairness opinion to the Board
of Directors of the Company in connection with the Exchange
Ratio. We will receive a fee for our services payable upon
delivery of this opinion, and we also will be reimbursed for
expenses incurred. We or our affiliates have, in the past,
provided financial advisory services to the Company and certain
stockholders of the Company and may continue to do so and have
received, and may receive, fees for such services. In addition,
we or our affiliates currently are and have, in the past,
provided financial advisory services to certain stockholders of
New Valley and may continue to do so and will receive, have
received, and may receive, fees for such services. The Company
has agreed to indemnify Jefferies against liabilities arising
out of or in connection with the services rendered and to be
rendered by Jefferies under such engagement. We maintain a
market in the securities of the Company, and in the ordinary
course of our business, we and our affiliates may trade or hold
securities of the Company for our own account and for the
accounts of our customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold
long or short positions in those securities.
You have asked for our opinion as investment bankers as to
whether the Exchange Ratio is fair, from a financial point of
view, to the Company.
In conducting our analysis and arriving at the opinion expressed
herein, we have, among other things:
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(i) reviewed the Companys and New Valleys
operations and prospects; |
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(ii) reviewed certain financial and other information about
the Company and New Valley that was publicly available; |
D-1
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(iii) reviewed information furnished to us by the
Companys management, including certain internal financial
analyses, financial forecasts with respect to the Company and
New Valley, budgets, reports and other information; |
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(iv) based on information furnished to us by the
Companys management and its outside advisors concerning
the tax assets of New Valley and the treatment of New
Valleys net operating losses after giving effect to the
Transaction, considered the value of New Valleys tax
assets to the Company after giving effect to the Transaction; |
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(v) considered written waivers from certain officers of New
Valley waiving rights to severance and other benefits to which
they would otherwise be entitled arising from completion of the
Transaction; |
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(vi) held discussions with various members of management of
the Company concerning historical and current operations,
financial conditions and prospects, including recent financial
performance; |
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(vii) reviewed the share trading price history of the
Company Common Stock and the New Valley Common Stock for a
period we deemed appropriate; |
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(viii) reviewed the valuation of New Valley implied by the
Exchange Ratio; |
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(ix) reviewed the premiums paid in selected acquisition
transactions; |
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(x) prepared a discounted cash flow analysis of New Valley
on a stand-alone basis; and |
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(xi) reviewed an analysis of the combined entity and the
resulting earnings accretion/dilution. |
In addition, we have conducted such other quantitative reviews,
analyses and inquiries relating to the Company and New Valley as
we considered appropriate in rendering this opinion. We note
that we have not had the opportunity to review any non-public
information of or financial forecasts provided by New Valley
other than such information and financial forecasts provided to
us by the Company.
In our review and analysis and in rendering this opinion, we
have assumed and relied upon, but have not assumed any
responsibility to independently investigate or verify, the
accuracy, completeness and fair presentation of all financial
and other information that was provided to us by the Company or
that was publicly available to us (including, without
limitation, the information described above), or that was
otherwise reviewed by us. This opinion is expressly conditioned
upon such information (whether written or oral) being complete,
accurate and fair in all respects material to our analysis.
With respect to the financial forecasts provided to and examined
by us, we note that projecting future results of any company is
inherently subject to uncertainty. The Company has informed us,
however, and we have assumed, that such financial forecasts were
reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently
available estimates and good faith judgments of the management
of the Company as to the future performance of the Company and
New Valley, respectively. We express no opinion as to the
Companys or New Valleys financial forecasts or the
assumptions on which they are made. In addition, in rendering
this opinion we have assumed that each of the Company and New
Valley will perform in accordance with such financial forecasts
for all periods specified therein. Although such financial
forecasts did not form the principal basis for our opinion, but
rather constituted one of many items that we employed, changes
to such financial forecasts could affect the opinion rendered
herein.
Accordingly, Jefferies analyses must be considered as a
whole. Considering any portion of such analyses or the factors
considered, without considering all analyses and factors, could
create a misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying
the conclusions expressed herein. We expressly disclaim any
undertaking or obligation to advise any person of any change in
any fact or matter affecting our opinion of which we become
aware after the date hereof.
In our review, we did not obtain any independent evaluation or
appraisal of the assets or liabilities of, nor did we conduct a
comprehensive physical inspection of any of the assets of, the
Company or New
D-2
Valley, nor have we been furnished with any such evaluations or
appraisals or reports of such physical inspections, nor do we
assume any responsibility to obtain any such evaluations,
appraisals or inspections. Our opinion is based on economic,
monetary, regulatory, market and other conditions existing and
which can be evaluated as of the date hereof. We have made no
independent investigation of any legal or accounting matters
affecting the Company or New Valley, and we have assumed the
correctness in all respects material to our analysis of all
legal and accounting advice given to the Company and its Board
of Directors, including, without limitation, advice as to the
legal, accounting and tax consequences (including, but not
limited to, the treatment of New Valleys net operating
losses after giving effect to the Transaction) of the terms of
the Transaction to the Company.
It is understood that our opinion is for the use and benefit of
the Board of Directors of the Company in its consideration of
the Transaction, and our opinion does not address the relative
merits of the Transaction as compared to any alternative
transactions that might be available to the Company, nor does it
address the underlying business decision by the Company to
engage in the Transaction. Our opinion does not constitute a
recommendation as to how any holder of shares of the Company
Common Stock should vote on any matter relevant to the
Transaction. We express no opinion as to the price at which the
Company Common Stock will trade at any future time. Except as
provided in our engagement letter with the Company, our opinion
may not be used or referred to by the Company, or quoted or
disclosed to any person in any matter, without our prior written
consent.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion
as investment bankers that, as of the date hereof, the Exchange
Ratio is fair, from a financial point of view, to the Company.
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Very truly yours, |
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JEFFERIES & COMPANY, INC. |
D-3
THE EXCHANGE AGENT AND DEPOSITARY FOR THE OFFER IS:
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By Mail or Overnight Courier: |
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By Hand: |
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company |
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American Stock Transfer & Trust Company |
Operations Center |
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Attn: Reorganization Department |
Attn: Reorganization Department |
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59 Maiden Lane |
6201 15th Avenue |
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New York, NY 10038 |
Brooklyn, NY 11219 |
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Questions and requests for assistance may be directed to the
Information Agent or Dealer Manager at the addresses and
telephone numbers listed below. Additional copies of this
Prospectus, the Letter of Transmittal and other tender offer
materials may be obtained from the Information Agent or Dealer
Manager as set forth below, and will be furnished promptly at
our expense. You may also contact your broker, dealer,
commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance
concerning the offer.
The Information Agent for the Offer is:
Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc.
17 State Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10004
(877) 388-2794 (Toll Free)
Banks and Brokerage Firms please call:
(212) 440-9800
The Dealer Manager for the Offer is:
Georgeson Shareholder Securities Corporation
17 State Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10004
(212) 440-9800