Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2)
Registration No. 333-120202
333-120202-01
PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT TO PROSPECTUS DATED NOVEMBER 22, 2004
U.S.$1,000,000,000
América Móvil, S.A. de C.V.
6 3/8% Senior Notes Due March 1, 2035
Unconditionally Guaranteed by
Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V.
We will pay interest on the notes on each March 1 and September 1. The first interest payment will be made on September 1, 2005. Our wholly-owned subsidiary Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., also known as Telcel, has irrevocably and unconditionally agreed to guarantee the payment of principal, premium, if any, interest and all other amounts in respect of the notes.
In the event of certain changes in the applicable rate of Mexican withholding taxes on interest, we may redeem the notes, in whole but not in part, at a price equal to 100% of their principal amount plus accrued interest to the redemption date. We may redeem, in whole or in part, the notes at any time by paying the greater of the principal amount of the notes and the applicable make-whole amount, plus, in each case, accrued interest. See Description of NotesOptional Redemption beginning on page S-20.
Investing in the notes involves risks. See Risk Factors beginning on page 4 of the accompanying prospectus.
Price to Public(1) |
Underwriting Discount and Commissions |
Proceeds to América Móvil | |||||||
Per Note |
99.667% | 0.30% | 99.367% | ||||||
Total |
U.S.$ | 996,670,000 | U.S.$ | 3,000,000 | U.S.$ | 993,670,000 |
(1) | Plus accrued interest, if any, from February 25, 2005. |
Delivery of the notes in book-entry form only will be made on or about February 25, 2005.
THIS PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT AND THE ACCOMPANYING PROSPECTUS ARE SOLELY OUR RESPONSIBILITY AND HAVE NOT BEEN REVIEWED OR AUTHORIZED BY THE MEXICAN NATIONAL BANKING AND SECURITIES COMMISSION (COMISIÓN NACIONAL BANCARIA Y DE VALORES DE MÉXICO, OR CNBV). AN APPLICATION HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE CNBV FOR THE REGISTRATION OF THE NOTES WITH THE SPECIAL SECTION (SECCIÓN ESPECIAL) OF THE NATIONAL SECURITIES REGISTRY (REGISTRO NACIONAL DE VALORES) MAINTAINED BY THE CNBV, WHICH IS A REQUIREMENT UNDER THE LEY DEL MERCADO DE VALORES. SUCH REGISTRATION IS EXPECTED TO BE OBTAINED ON OR BEFORE THE CLOSING OF THIS OFFER. SUCH REGISTRATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CERTIFICATION AS TO THE INVESTMENT VALUE OF THE NOTES OR OUR SOLVENCY. THE NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED WITH THE SECURITIES SECTION OF THE NATIONAL SECURITIES REGISTRY, AND THEREFORE, THE NOTES MAY NOT BE PUBLICLY OFFERED OR SOLD IN MEXICO. IN MAKING AN INVESTMENT DECISION, ALL INVESTORS, INCLUDING ANY MEXICAN CITIZEN WHO MAY ACQUIRE NOTES FROM TIME TO TIME, MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN EXAMINATION OF US AND TELCEL.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
Credit Suisse First Boston
The date of this prospectus supplement is February 17, 2005
PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT
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PROSPECTUS
Page | ||
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS |
1 | |
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS |
2 | |
AMÉRICA MÓVIL |
3 | |
RISK FACTORS |
4 | |
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES |
12 | |
USE OF PROCEEDS |
12 | |
DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES |
13 | |
FORM OF DEBT SECURITIES, CLEARING AND SETTLEMENT |
26 | |
TAXATION |
29 | |
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION |
33 | |
EXPERTS |
34 | |
VALIDITY OF THE DEBT SECURITIES |
34 | |
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES |
34 | |
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION |
35 | |
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE |
36 |
You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference therein. We have not authorized anyone to provide you with information that is different. This document may only be used where it is legal to sell these securities. The information appearing in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference therein may only be accurate as of their respective dates. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since those dates.
Mexico has a free market for foreign exchange, and the Mexican government allows the peso to float freely against the U.S. dollar. The peso was relatively stable from 1999 until 2001. In 2002 and 2003, the peso declined in value against the U.S. dollar. There can be no assurances that the government will maintain its current policies with regard to the peso or that the peso will not further depreciate or appreciate significantly in the future.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high, low, average and period-end noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers in pesos published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, expressed in pesos per U.S. dollar. The rates have not been restated in constant currency units and therefore represent nominal historical figures.
Period |
High |
Low |
Average(1) |
Period End | ||||
2000 |
9.1830 | 10.0870 | 9.4717 | 9.6180 | ||||
2001 |
9.0270 | 9.8850 | 8.9386 | 9.1560 | ||||
2002 |
9.0000 | 10.4250 | 9.6630 | 10.4250 | ||||
2003 |
10.1130 | 11.4060 | 10.8463 | 11.2420 | ||||
2004 |
10.8050 | 11.6350 | 11.3095 | 11.1540 | ||||
2004: |
||||||||
February |
10.9095 | 11.2450 | ||||||
March |
10.9180 | 11.2290 | ||||||
April |
11.1570 | 11.4315 | ||||||
May |
11.3815 | 11.6350 | ||||||
June |
11.3030 | 11.5380 | ||||||
July |
11.3790 | 11.5350 | ||||||
August |
11.3450 | 11.4550 | ||||||
September |
11.2415 | 11.6030 | ||||||
October |
11.2415 | 11.5150 | ||||||
November |
11.2411 | 11.5290 | ||||||
December |
11.1110 | 11.3285 | ||||||
2005: |
||||||||
January |
11.1715 | 11.4110 |
(1) | Average of month-end rates. |
On February 16, 2005 the noon buying rate was Ps. 11.1520 to U.S.$1.00.
S-1
This summary highlights key information described in greater detail elsewhere or in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus, including the documents incorporated by reference. You should read carefully the entire prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference before making an investment decision.
América Móvil
With 61.1 million wireless subscribers in eleven countries at December 31, 2004 (compared to 43.7 million at December 31, 2003 and 50.3 million at June 30, 2004), we are the largest provider of wireless communications services in Latin America and one of the ten largest in the world. Because our focus is on Latin America, a substantial majority of our wireless subscribers are prepaid customers. We also had approximately 1.9 million fixed lines in Guatemala, Nicaragua and El Salvador at December 31, 2004, making us the largest fixed-line operator in Central America. We have recently deployed or upgraded GSM networks in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua, and are in the process of deploying GSM networks in Argentina and Uruguay.
For the six months ended June 30, 2004, we had operating revenues of Ps. 58,489 million (U.S.$5,192 million) and net income of Ps. 7,270 million (U.S.$645 million), compared to operating revenues of Ps. 38,481 million, and net income of Ps. 7,855 million for the corresponding period of 2003, based on Mexican GAAP. For the year ended December 31, 2003, we had operating revenues of Ps. 85,941 million (U.S.$7,629 million) and net income of Ps. 15,032 million (U.S.$1,334 million), as compared to operating revenues of Ps. 59,743 million and net income of Ps. 4,784 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, based on Mexican GAAP. At June 30, 2004, we had total assets of Ps. 164,941 million (U.S.$14,642 million) and total stockholders equity of Ps. 73,772 million (U.S.$6,549 million), based on Mexican GAAP.
Our principal operations are:
| Mexico. Through Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., which operates under the name Telcel, we provide cellular telecommunications service in all nine regions in Mexico, with a network covering approximately 35% of the geographical area of Mexico, including all major cities, and approximately 81% of Mexicos population. With 28.9 million subscribers at December 31, 2004, Telcel is the largest provider of wireless telecommunications services in Mexico. For the six months ended June 30, 2004, Telcel had operating revenues of Ps. 32,334 million (U.S.$2,870 million). Our Mexican operations represented approximately 55% of our consolidated revenues in the first six months of 2004. For the year ended December 31, 2003, Telcel had operating revenues of Ps. 52,466 million (U.S.$4,658 million). Our Mexican operations represented approximately 61% of our consolidated operating revenues in 2003. |
| Argentina. In 2003, we acquired CTI, the fourth largest wireless operator in Argentina measured by the number of subscribers. CTI provides nationwide wireless services in Argentina. |
| Brazil. With approximately 13.7 million subscribers as of December 31, 2004, we are the second-largest provider of wireless telecommunications services in Brazil based on the number of subscribers. We operate in Brazil through our subsidiary, Telecom Americas, and a number of operating companies, under a unified brand name, Claro. During 2003, we significantly expanded our coverage in Brazil by acquiring BCP S.A. and BSE S.A. BCP is the second largest wireless provider in the São Paulo metropolitan area. Our network covers the principal cities in Brazil (including São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro). For the six months ended June 30, 2004, Telecom Americas had operating revenues of Ps. 8,742 million (U.S.$776 million), which represented approximately 15% of our consolidated operating revenues in the first six months of 2004. For the year ended December 31, 2003, Telecom Americas had operating revenues of Ps. 11,397 million (U.S.$1,012 million), which represented approximately 13% of our consolidated operating revenues in 2003. |
S-2
| Central America. We provide fixed-line and wireless services in Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua, through our subsidiaries Telgua, CTE and ENITEL. We also provide wireless services in Nicaragua through our subsidiary Sercom Nicaragua and in Honduras through our subsidiary Megatel de Honduras. We acquired a controlling interest in CTE in 2003 and increased our interest to 95.2% in December 2004. We acquired ENITEL in two transactions that closed in January and August 2004 and Megatel de Honduras in a transaction that closed in June 2004. |
| Colombia. Our three operating subsidiaries in ColombiaComcel, Occel and Celcaribeoperate under the Comcel brand. We are the largest wireless operator in the country measured by the number of subscribers. |
| Ecuador. Conecel, our subsidiary in Ecuador, is the largest wireless operator in Ecuador measured by the number of subscribers. Conecel operates under the Porta brand. |
| United States. Our U.S. subsidiary, TracFone, is engaged in the sale and distribution of prepaid wireless services and wireless phones throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. |
Recent Developments
On January 27, 2005, we announced our results of operations for the fourth quarter of 2004 and for the year ended December 31, 2004. These results are preliminary and have not been audited and, consequently, are subject to change or adjustment.
For the fourth quarter of 2004, we had total revenues of Ps. 39,841 million (U.S.$3,537 million), operating income of Ps. 5,093 million (U.S.$452 million) and net income of Ps. 1,643 million (U.S.$146 million), compared with total revenues of Ps. 27,801 million, operating income of Ps. 5,364 million and net income of Ps. 5,603 million for the fourth quarter of 2003, in each case based on Mexican GAAP.
For the year ended December 31, 2004, we had operating revenues of Ps. 134,747 million (U.S.$11,962 million) and net income of Ps. 16,513 million (U.S.$1,466 million) compared with operating revenues of Ps. 90,401 million and net income of Ps. 15,812 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, in each case, based on Mexican GAAP. At December 31, 2004, we had total assets of Ps. 195,901 million (U.S.$17,390 million), total liabilities of Ps. 118,334 million (U.S.$10,504 million) and total stockholders equity of Ps. 77,568 million (U.S.$6,886 million), based on Mexican GAAP.
For additional information concerning our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2004, see Recent Developments in this prospectus supplement. The financial information included in this paragraph is presented in constant pesos as of December 31, 2004. As a result, it is not directly comparable to the financial data in constant pesos as of other dates presented elsewhere in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus. See Recent Developments in this prospectus supplement.
Our principal executive offices are at Lago Alberto 366, Edificio Telcel I, Piso 2, Colonia Anáhuac, 11320, México D.F., México. Our telephone number is (5255) 2581-4411.
S-3
The following summary contains basic information about the notes and is not intended to be complete. It does not contain all the information that is important to you. For a more complete understanding of the notes, please refer to Description of Notes in this prospectus supplement and Description of Debt Securities in the accompanying prospectus.
Summary of the Offering
Notes being offered |
U.S.$1,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2035. | |
Issuer |
América Móvil, S.A. de C.V. | |
Guarantor |
Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V. (also known as Telcel). | |
Issue price |
99.667%. | |
Maturity |
March 1, 2035. | |
Interest rate |
The notes will bear interest at the rate of 6 3/8% per year from February 25, 2005. | |
Interest payment dates |
Interest on the notes will be payable semi-annually on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning on September 1, 2005. | |
Guarantee |
Payments of principal, premium, if any, interest and additional amounts due under the notes will be irrevocably and unconditionally guaranteed by Telcel. | |
Ranking |
The notes will be our unsecured and unsubordinated obligations and will rank equally in right of payment with all of our other unsecured and unsubordinated debt. The guarantees will be unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of Telcel and will rank equally in right of payment with all other unsecured and unsubordinated debt of Telcel. The notes and the guarantees will be effectively subordinated to all of our and Telcels existing and future secured obligations and to all existing and future indebtedness of our subsidiaries other than Telcel. The notes do not restrict our ability or the ability of Telcel or our other subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness in the future. At December 31, 2004, we had, on an unconsolidated basis (parent company only), unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 53,339 million (U.S.$4,735 million). At December 31, 2004, Telcel had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 54,646 million (U.S.$4,851 million), excluding subordinated debt owed to other of our subsidiaries. |
S-4
Use of proceeds |
We intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of the notes for general corporate purposes, including the funding of capital expenditures. | |
Payment of additional amounts |
If you are not a resident of Mexico for tax purposes, payments of interest on the notes to you will generally be subject to Mexican withholding tax at a rate of 4.9% or, under certain circumstances, 10%. See TaxationMexican Tax Considerations in this prospectus supplement and TaxationMexican Tax Considerations in the accompanying prospectus. We will pay additional amounts in respect of those payments of interest so that the amount you receive after Mexican withholding tax is paid equals the amount that you would have received if no such Mexican withholding tax had been applicable, subject to some exceptions as described under Description of NotesPayment of Additional Amounts in this prospectus supplement and Description of Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts in the accompanying prospectus. | |
Optional redemption |
We may redeem any of the notes at any time in whole or in part by paying the greater of the principal amount of the notes and a make-whole amount, plus in each case accrued interest, as described under Description of NotesOptional Redemption in this prospectus supplement and Description of Debt SecuritiesOptional Redemption in the accompanying prospectus. | |
Tax redemption |
If, due to changes in Mexican laws relating to Mexican withholding taxes applicable to payments of interest, we are obligated to pay additional amounts on the notes in excess of those attributable to a Mexican withholding tax rate of 10%, we may redeem the outstanding notes in whole (but not in part) at any time, at a price equal to 100% of their principal amount plus accrued interest to the redemption date. | |
Form and denomination |
Except as described below, the notes will be issued only in registered form without coupons and in denominations of U.S.$2,000 principal amount and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof. | |
Trustee, registrar, principal paying |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. | |
Governing law |
State of New York | |
Risk factors |
Prospective purchasers of notes should consider carefully all of the information included in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and, in particular, the information set forth under Risk Factors in the accompanying prospectus before making an investment in the notes. |
S-5
SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING INFORMATION
The following tables present summary consolidated financial and operating data of América Móvil and summary unconsolidated financial and operating data of Telcel at the dates and for the periods indicated. You should read the information below in conjunction with América Móvils audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 and for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003 and notes to these financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2003, or 2003 Form 20-F, which have been incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus, our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements as of June 30, 2004 and for the six months ended June 30, 2003 and 2004, which have been incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus, and Item 5Operating and Financial Review and Prospects in our 2003 Form 20-F incorporated by reference in the accompanying prospectus.
Our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2003 Form 20-F and our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus have been prepared in accordance with Mexican GAAP and presented in Mexican pesos. Mexican GAAP differs in certain respects from U.S. GAAP. Note 23 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2003 Form 20-F and Note 15 to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements provide a description of the principal differences between Mexican GAAP and U.S. GAAP, as they relate to us; a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of operating income; net income and total stockholders equity; and a condensed statement of cash flows under U.S. GAAP.
Pursuant to Mexican GAAP, in our financial statements and the selected financial information set forth below:
| (including plant, property and equipment of Mexican origin) and stockholders equity are restated for inflation based on the Mexican National Consumer Price Index; plant, property and equipment of non-Mexican origin are restated based on the rate of inflation in the country of origin and converted into Mexican pesos using the prevailing exchange rate at the balance sheet date; |
| losses in purchasing power from holding monetary liabilities or assets are recognized in income; and |
| statements are restated in constant pesos as of the most recent balance sheet date. In the case of our audited consolidated financial statements, all financial information is restated in constant pesos as of December 31, 2003. In the case of our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements, all financial information is restated in constant pesos as of June 30, 2004. |
The effect of inflation accounting under Mexican GAAP has not been reversed in the reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of net income and stockholders equity, except with respect to the methodology for restatement of imported telephone plant. See Note 23 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2003 Form 20-F and Note 15 to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.
This prospectus supplement contains translations of various peso amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for your convenience. You should not construe these translations as representations by us that the nominal peso or constant peso amounts actually represent these U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. dollars at the rate indicated. We have translated peso amounts into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate of Ps. 11.2648 to U.S.$1.00, which is the exchange rate reported by Banco de México for December 31, 2004. Accordingly, convenience translation figures presented in this prospectus supplement are not comparable to those presented in our 2003 Form 20-F or our unaudited consolidated interim financial statements.
The consolidated financial statement data of América Móvil in the tables as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 and for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2003 Form 20-F, which have been reported on by Mancera S.C., a member
S-6
practice of Ernst & Young Global, independent auditors. The following tables also present selected financial data of América Móvil as of earlier dates and for earlier years, which have been prepared in a manner consistent with the information set forth in the consolidated financial statements. In addition, the following tables include selected unconsolidated financial and operating data of Telcel.
As of and for the year ended December 31, |
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1999(1) |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2003 |
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(millions of constant pesos as of December 31, 2003)(2) | (millions of U.S. dollars)(2) |
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AMÉRICA MÓVIL |
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Income Statement Data: |
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Mexican GAAP |
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Operating revenues |
Ps. | 18,010 | Ps. | 33,073 | Ps. | 45,457 | Ps. | 59,743 | Ps. | 85,941 | U.S.$ | 7,629 | |||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses |
15,453 | 29,880 | 38,783 | 46,762 | 67,981 | 6,035 | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
1,737 | 3,395 | 4,920 | 8,606 | 13,878 | 1,232 | |||||||||||||||||
Operating income |
2,557 | 3,193 | 6,674 | 12,980 | 17,960 | 1,594 | |||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive financing (income) cost |
(3,517 | ) | (1,196 | ) | 665 | 1,023 | (2,123 | ) | (188 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
5,010 | 994 | (910 | ) | 4,784 | 15,032 | 1,334 | ||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) per share: |
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Basic(3) |
0.35 | 0.07 | (0.07 | ) | 0.36 | 1.16 | 0.11 | ||||||||||||||||
Diluted(3) |
0.35 | 0.07 | (0.07 | ) | 0.36 | 1.16 | 0.11 | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared per share(4) |
| | 0.040 | 0.044 | 0.060 | 0.01 | |||||||||||||||||
Dividends paid per share(5) |
| | 0.030 | 0.043 | 0.056 | 0.01 | |||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding (millions): |
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Basic |
| | 13,199 | 13,123 | 12,912 | | |||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
| | 13,199 | 13,123 | 12,914 | | |||||||||||||||||
U.S. GAAP |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating revenues |
Ps. | 18,237 | Ps. | 33,490 | Ps. | 45,457 | Ps. | 59,743 | Ps. | 85,941 | U.S.$ | 7,629 | |||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses |
16,369 | 31,308 | 39,316 | 46,431 | 67,405 | 5,984 | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
1,931 | 3,696 | 5,496 | 8,138 | 13,368 | 1,187 | |||||||||||||||||
Operating income |
1,868 | 2,182 | 6,141 | 13,312 | 18,536 | 1,645 | |||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive financing (income) cost |
(3,602 | ) | (1,482 | ) | 727 | 712 | (1,973 | ) | (175 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
3,140 | (470 | ) | (670 | ) | 6,037 | 14,899 | 1,323 | |||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) per share: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic(3) |
0.21 | (0.03 | ) | (0.05 | ) | 0.46 | 1.15 | 0.11 | |||||||||||||||
Diluted(3) |
0.21 | (0.03 | ) | (0.05 | ) | 0.46 | 1.15 | 0.11 | |||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: |
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Mexican GAAP |
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Property, plant and equipment, net |
Ps. | 14,610 | Ps. | 37,557 | Ps. | 43,934 | Ps. | 62,994 | Ps. | 71,162 | U.S.$ | 6,317 | |||||||||||
Total assets |
76,995 | 100,857 | 101,833 | 117,538 | 149,979 | 13,314 | |||||||||||||||||
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt |
460 | 7,636 | 6,928 | 10,637 | 12,108 | 1,075 | |||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
2,831 | 1,340 | 16,674 | 37,399 | 37,205 | 3,303 | |||||||||||||||||
Total stockholders equity(6) |
65,472 | 75,136 | 62,233 | 51,146 | 69,212 | 6,144 | |||||||||||||||||
Capital stock |
| 31,224 | 31,201 | 31,193 | 31,191 | 2,769 | |||||||||||||||||
Number of outstanding shares (millions): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Series AA |
| 3,266 | 3,807 | 3,647 | 3,647 | 3,647 | |||||||||||||||||
Series A |
| 339 | 315 | 291 | 279 | 279 | |||||||||||||||||
Series L |
| 10,405 | 9,077 | 8,978 | 8,910 | 8,910 | |||||||||||||||||
U.S. GAAP |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
Ps. | 15,034 | Ps. | 37,657 | Ps. | 47,118 | Ps. | 64,139 | Ps. | 76,893 | U.S.$ | 6,826 | |||||||||||
Total assets |
78,756 | 102,875 | 105,993 | 120,611 | 158,586 | 14,078 | |||||||||||||||||
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt |
| 7,732 | 6,928 | 10,637 | 12,108 | 1,075 | |||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
2,868 | 1,357 | 16,674 | 37,399 | 37,205 | 3,303 | |||||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
786 | 2,427 | 822 | 1,225 | 5,099 | 453 |
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As of and for the year ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
1999(1) |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2003 | ||||||||||||||||||
(millions of constant pesos as of December 31, 2003)(2) | (millions of U.S. dollars)(2) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. GAAP (contd) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Total stockholders equity |
63,498 | 71,030 | 62,615 | 50,389 | 71,167 | 6,318 | |||||||||||||||||
Capital stock |
| 31,617 | 31,594 | 31,587 | 31,585 | 2,804 | |||||||||||||||||
Subscriber Data: |
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Number of subscribers (in thousands) |
17,124 | 26,594 | 31,600 | 43,725 | | ||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber growth |
| 55.3 | % | 18.8 | % | 38.4 | % | | |||||||||||||||
TELCEL |
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Income Statement Data: (unconsolidated) |
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Mexican GAAP |
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Operating revenues |
Ps.16,222 | Ps. | 25,861 | Ps. | 35,461 | Ps. | 42,408 | Ps. | 52,466 | U.S.$ | 4,658 | ||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses(7) |
12,796 | 20,133 | 27,220 | 34,573 | 42,079 | 3,735 | |||||||||||||||||
Operating income |
3,426 | 5,728 | 8,241 | 7,835 | 10,387 | 922 | |||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: (unconsolidated) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets(8) |
Ps. | 19,836 | Ps. | 67,093 | Ps. | 74,220 | Ps. | 78,934 | Ps. | 60,188 | U.S.$ | 5,343 | |||||||||||
Total debt with third parties(9) |
318 | 1,929 | 2,485 | 2,126 | 3,020 | 268 | |||||||||||||||||
Total liabilities(8) |
9,286 | 42,663 | 46,665 | 46,603 | 50,112 | 4,449 | |||||||||||||||||
Subscriber Data: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of subscribers (in thousands) |
5,272 | 10,462 | 16,965 | 20,067 | 23,444 | ||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber growth |
149.4 | % | 98.4 | % | 62.2 | % | 18.3 | % | 16.8 | % |
(1) | For América Móvil, prepared on a consolidated basis from the historical accounting records of Teléfonos de México, S.A. de C.V., or Telmex, representing the combined historical operations of the entities that Telmex transferred to us in the spin-off that established América Móvil in September 2000. |
(2) | Except per share data, ratios of earnings to fixed charges and subscriber data. |
(3) | For 1999, based on 14,485 million shares (basic and diluted) outstanding at September 25, 2000, the date América Móvil was established. For 2000, assumes 14,485 million shares (basic and diluted) outstanding for the period prior to September 25, 2000. We have not included net income or dividends on a per ADS basis. Each L Share ADS represents 20 L Shares and each A Share ADS represents 20 A Shares. |
(4) | Nominal amounts. Figures provided represent the annual dividend declared at the general shareholders meeting. |
(5) | Nominal amounts. Cash dividends per share, translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on each of the respective payment dates, were U.S.$0.005, U.S.$0.004 and U.S.$0.003 for the years ended December 31, 2003, December 31, 2002 and December 31, 2001, respectively. |
(6) | Includes minority interest. |
(7) | Includes royalties and leasing fees paid to other of our subsidiaries of approximately Ps. 4,292 million and Ps. 4,455 million, Ps. 1,597 million and Ps. 236 million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. These amounts are eliminated in preparing our segment data information presented in note 21 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2003. The operating income of our Mexican operations prepared on a combined and consolidated basis as set forth in such note was Ps. 17,695 million, Ps. 12,290 million, and Ps. 9,838 million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. |
(8) | Includes assets and liabilities with related parties, including us and our other subsidiaries. Total liabilities at December 31, 2003 include subordinated debt of Ps. 28,239 million owed by Telcel to Sercotel. |
(9) | Excludes guarantees. At December 31, 2003, Telcel had Ps. 39,809 million of outstanding guarantees of debt of América Móvil or our other subsidiaries. |
S-8
The summary consolidated financial and operating data of América Móvil and the summary unconsolidated financial and operating data of Telcel set forth below have been derived from our unaudited condensed interim financial statements. In the opinion of our management, the financial data set forth below include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of consolidated financial condition and results of operations as of the dates and for the periods specified. Results for the first six months are not, however, necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year.
The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and the selected interim financial data set forth below are stated in constant pesos with purchasing power as of June 30, 2004. As a result of Mexican inflation during the first six months of 2004, the purchasing power of one peso as of December 31, 2003 is equal to the purchasing power of 1.0161 pesos as of June 30, 2004. Accordingly, the financial data set forth below are not directly comparable to the audited consolidated financial statements because the are stated in constant pesos as of different dates.
As of and for the six months ended June 30, | ||||||||||
2003 |
2004 |
2004 | ||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||||
(millions of constant pesos as of June 30, 2004) (1) |
(millions of U.S. dollars) (1) | |||||||||
AMÉRICA MÓVIL |
||||||||||
Income Statement Data: |
||||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
||||||||||
Operating revenues |
Ps.38,481 | Ps.58,489 | U.S.$ | 5,192 | ||||||
Operating costs and expenses |
30,304 | 47,120 | 4,183 | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
6,501 | 8,728 | 775 | |||||||
Operating income |
8,177 | 11,369 | 1,009 | |||||||
Comprehensive financing (income) cost |
(1,532 | ) | 1,069 | 95 | ||||||
Net income |
7,855 | 7,270 | 645 | |||||||
Net income per share: |
||||||||||
Basic(2) |
0.61 | 0.57 | 0.05 | |||||||
Diluted(2) |
0.61 | 0.57 | 0.05 | |||||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding (millions): |
||||||||||
Basic |
12,917 | 12,695 | | |||||||
Diluted |
12,918 | 12,698 | | |||||||
U.S. GAAP |
||||||||||
Operating revenues |
Ps.36,547 | Ps.55,056 | U.S.$ | 4,887 | ||||||
Operating costs and expenses |
27,632 | 43,755 | 3,884 | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
5,946 | 8,740 | 776 | |||||||
Operating income |
8,915 | 11,301 | 1003 | |||||||
Comprehensive financing (income) cost |
(1,532 | ) | 1,582 | 140 | ||||||
Net income |
7,880 | 7,219 | 641 | |||||||
Net income per share: |
||||||||||
Basic(2) |
0.61 | 0.57 | 0.05 | |||||||
Diluted(2) |
0.61 | 0.57 | 0.05 | |||||||
Balance Sheet Data(3): |
||||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
| Ps.78,423 | U.S.$ | 6,962 | ||||||
Total assets |
| 164,941 | 14,642 |
S-9
As of and for the six months ended June 30, | |||||||||
2003 |
2004 |
2004 | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||||
(millions of constant pesos as of June 30, 2004) (1) |
(millions of U.S. dollars) (1) | ||||||||
Mexican GAAP (contd) |
|||||||||
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt |
| Ps. | 5,729 | U.S.$ | 509 | ||||
Long-term debt |
| 45,437 | 4,036 | ||||||
Total stockholders equity(4) |
| 73,772 | 6,549 | ||||||
Capital stock |
| 31,695 | 2,814 | ||||||
U.S. GAAP |
|||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
| Ps. | 85,043 | U.S.$ | 7,549 | ||||
Total assets |
| 174,448 | 15,486 | ||||||
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt |
| 5,729 | 509 | ||||||
Long-term debt |
| 45,437 | 4,036 | ||||||
Minority interest |
| 5,035 | 447 | ||||||
Total stockholders equity |
| 76,619 | 6,802 | ||||||
Subscriber Data: |
|||||||||
Number of subscribers (in thousands) |
39,091 | 50,317 | | ||||||
TELCEL |
|||||||||
Income Statement Data: (unconsolidated) |
|||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
|||||||||
Operating revenues |
Ps. | 24,850 | Ps. | 32,334 | U.S.$ | 2,870 | |||
Operating costs and expenses(5) |
20,195 | 25,085 | 2,227 | ||||||
Operating income |
4,656 | 7,250 | 644 | ||||||
Balance Sheet Data(3): (unconsolidated) |
|||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
|||||||||
Total assets(6) |
| Ps. | 67,669 | U.S.$ | 6,007 | ||||
Total debt with third parties(7) |
| 1,917 | 170 | ||||||
Total liabilities(6) |
| 51,131 | 4,539 | ||||||
Subscriber Data: |
|||||||||
Number of subscribers (in thousands) |
21,307 | 25,637 | |
(1) | Except per share data. |
(2) | We have not included net income or dividends on a per ADS basis. Each L Share ADS represents 20 L Shares and each A Share ADS represents 20 A Shares. |
(3) | Our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for June 30, 2004 incorporated by reference in the accompanying prospectus provide balance sheet data as of June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003 in constant pesos as of June 30, 2004. However, our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements as of June 30, 2004 do not provide balance sheet data as of June 30, 2003. |
(4) | Includes minority interest. |
(5) | Includes royalties and leasing fees paid to other of our subsidiaries of approximately Ps. 4,309 million and Ps. 3,412 million for the sixth months ended June 30, 2004 and June 30, 2003, respectively. These amounts are eliminated in preparing our segment data information presented in note 14 to our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the six months ended June 30, 2004. The operating income of our Mexican operations prepared on a combined and consolidated basis as set forth in such note was Ps. 11,599 million and Ps. 8,039 million for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and June 30, 2003, respectively. |
(6) | Includes assets and liabilities with related parties, including us and our other subsidiaries. Total liabilities at June 30, 2004 include subordinated debt of Ps. 24,923 million owed by Telcel to Sercotel. This subordinated debt was subsequently transferred to América Móvil. In December 2004, Telcel entered into sale and leaseback transactions with respect to a portion of its telephone plant, for a value of approximately Ps. 3,534 million. |
(7) | Excludes guarantees. At June 30, 2004, Telcel had Ps. 43,558 million of outstanding guarantees of debt of América Móvil or our other subsidiaries. |
S-10
The net proceeds from the sale of the notes, after payment of underwriting discounts and commissions and transaction expenses, are expected to be approximately U.S.$993.5 million. We intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of the notes for general corporate purposes, including the funding of capital expenditures.
S-11
The following table sets forth our consolidated capitalization under Mexican GAAP (1) as of December 31, 2004 and (2) as adjusted to reflect the issuance of the notes. U.S. dollar amounts are presented solely for your convenience. See Summary Consolidated Financial and Operating Information in this prospectus supplement.
As of December 31, 2004 |
||||||||||||||||
Actual |
As adjusted |
|||||||||||||||
(millions of pesos) |
(millions of U.S. dollars) |
(millions of pesos) |
(millions of U.S. dollars) |
|||||||||||||
(unaudited) | (unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
Debt: |
||||||||||||||||
Denominated in U.S. dollars: |
||||||||||||||||
Credits with export-import banks |
Ps. | 7,358 | U.S.$ | 653 | Ps. | 7,358 | U.S.$ | 653 | ||||||||
Syndicated loans |
3,379 | 300 | 3,379 | 300 | ||||||||||||
Other bank loans |
4,928 | 437 | 4,928 | 437 | ||||||||||||
BNDES debt |
121 | 11 | 121 | 11 | ||||||||||||
Other |
773 | 69 | 773 | 69 | ||||||||||||
4.125% Notes due 2009 |
5,610 | 498 | 5,610 | 498 | ||||||||||||
5.500% Notes due 2014 |
8,956 | 795 | 8,956 | 795 | ||||||||||||
Floating Rate Notes due 2007 |
3,379 | 300 | 3,379 | 300 | ||||||||||||
5.750% Notes due 2015 |
5,632 | 500 | 5,632 | 500 | ||||||||||||
Notes offered hereby |
| | 11,264 | 1,000 | ||||||||||||
Total |
40,136 | 3,563 | 51,400 | 4,563 | ||||||||||||
Denominated in Mexican pesos: |
||||||||||||||||
Domestic senior notes (certificados bursátiles) |
13,001 | 1,154 | 13,001 | 1,154 | ||||||||||||
Leasing |
4,484 | 398 | 4,484 | 398 | ||||||||||||
Total |
17,485 | 1,552 | 17,485 | 1,552 | ||||||||||||
Denominated in Brazilian reais: |
||||||||||||||||
BNDES debt |
1,064 | 95 | 1,064 | 95 | ||||||||||||
Other |
1 | | 1 | | ||||||||||||
Total |
1,065 | 95 | 1,065 | 95 | ||||||||||||
Denominated in Colombian pesos |
2,489 | 221 | 2,489 | 221 | ||||||||||||
Denominated in other currencies |
283 | 25 | 283 | 25 | ||||||||||||
Total debt |
61,458 | 5,456 | 72,722 | 6,456 | ||||||||||||
Less short-term debt and current portion of |
5,392 | 479 | 5,392 | 479 | ||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
56,067 | 4,977 | 67,331 | 5,977 | ||||||||||||
Stockholders equity: |
||||||||||||||||
Capital stock |
32,795 | 2,911 | 32,795 | 2,911 | ||||||||||||
Retained earnings |
52,728 | 4,681 | 52,728 | 4,681 | ||||||||||||
Other accumulated comprehensive loss items |
(9,615 | ) | (854 | ) | (9,615 | ) | (854 | ) | ||||||||
Minority interest |
1,659 | 147 | 1,659 | 147 | ||||||||||||
Total stockholders equity |
77,568 | 6,885 | 77,568 | 6,885 | ||||||||||||
Total capitalization (total long-term debt and stockholders equity) |
Ps. | 133,635 | U.S.$ | 11,862 | Ps. 144,899 | U.S.$ | 12,862 | |||||||||
At December 31, 2004, Telcel had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 54,646 million (U.S.$4,851 million), excluding subordinated debt owed to other members of our group. At such date, Sercotel, our wholly-owned subsidiary that holds directly or indirectly the shares of all our operating subsidiaries, had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 10,217 million (U.S.$907 million). In addition, at December 31, 2004, our operating subsidiaries other than Telcel had indebtedness of Ps. 6,815 million (U.S.$605 million).
There has been no material change in our consolidated capitalization since December 31, 2004.
S-12
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements in our 2003 Form 20-F, incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus, our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements, incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus and Item 5Operating and Financial Review and Prospects in our 2003 Form 20-F. Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with Mexican GAAP, which differ in certain respects from U.S. GAAP. See Note 23 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our 2003 Form 20-F and Note 15 to our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements, incorporated by reference in the accompanying prospectus.
Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2004 and 2003
On January 27, 2005, we announced our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2004. These results are preliminary and have not been audited and, consequently, are subject to change or adjustment. These results were prepared in accordance with Mexican GAAP and presented in constant Mexican pesos with purchasing power as of December 31, 2004. As a result of inflation, the purchasing power of one peso as of December 31, 2003 is equal to the purchasing power of 1.0519 pesos as of December 31, 2004. Accordingly, the unaudited results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2004 are not directly comparable to the audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2003 Form 20-F incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus, or the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements incorporated by reference into the accompanying prospectus.
The following table sets forth summary unaudited condensed consolidated financial data of América Móvil for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003.
For year ended December 31, | ||||||
2003 |
2004 | |||||
(unaudited) (millions of constant pesos as of | ||||||
Operating revenues |
Ps. | 90,401 | Ps. | 134,747 | ||
Operating costs and expenses(1) |
71,509 | 111,253 | ||||
Depreciation and amortization |
14,598 | 18,595 | ||||
Operating income |
18,892 | 23,494 | ||||
Comprehensive financing income |
2,233 | 1,907 | ||||
Net income |
15,812 | 16,513 |
(1) | Includes depreciation and amortization expenses. |
Operating Revenues
We recorded operating revenues of Ps. 134,747 million for the year ended December 31, 2004, a 49.1% increase over 2003. This increase in revenues reflects principally subscriber growth particularly strong in the fourth quarter of 2004 as well as acquisitions. We made important acquisitions during the second half of 2003 (Compañía de Telecomunicaciones de El Salvador, S.A. de C.V., CTI Holdings S.A. and BCP S.A.). These companies were not consolidated until the latter part of 2003. If the companies acquired during 2003 had been consolidated for the full year 2003, we estimate that our revenue growth for 2004 would have been approximately 32%.
We had approximately 61.1 million wireless subscribers as of December 31, 2004, as compared to 43.7 million as of December 31, 2003, representing a 39.8% increase. At December 31, 2004, we had approximately 28.9 million wireless subscribers in Mexico and 13.7 million wireless subscribers in Brazil, as compared to 23.4 million
S-13
and 9.5 million, respectively, at December 31, 2003. We experienced subscriber growth in all of our markets during 2004. The rate of subscriber growth in Mexico during 2004 (23.1%) is lower than that in the rest of our principal markets, reflecting higher overall penetration in the Mexican cellular market by Telcel and its competitors.
In Argentina, we ended 2004 with approximately 3.6 million wireless subscribers compared to 1.4 million at December 31, 2003, and at December 31, 2004, we had 5.8 million wireless subscribers in Colombia, compared to 3.7 million at December 31, 2003. We also had 1.9 million fixed lines throughout Central America at December 31, 2004.
The increase in operating revenues in 2004 includes a Ps. 11,330 million, or 89.2%, increase in equipment revenue reflecting subscriber growth. Equipment revenue as a percentage of total revenue increased from 14.0% for 2003 to 17.8% for 2004.
Reductions in interconnection fees for calls between fixed and mobile phones became effective in Mexico as of January 2005. The reduction is of 10% in 2005, increasing to 19% in 2006 and 27.1% in 2007, in each case as compared to 2004 rates. Telcel has typically received more revenue from such fees than it has had to pay to fixed line operators for interconnection services. We do not expect, however, that this reduction will have a material adverse impact on our or Telcels results of operations, in part because we expect that the planned fee reduction should result in higher usage.
Operating Costs and Expenses
Our operating costs and expenses for 2004 increased by 55.6%, to Ps. 111,253 million, as compared to Ps. 71,509 million in 2003. As a percentage of our total revenues, operating costs and expenses increased to 82.6% during 2004 as compared to 79.1% during 2003. This resulted principally from increased subscriber acquisition costs in Argentina, Colombia and Brazil, and higher depreciation and amortization costs. Accelerated subscriber growth generally entails greater subscriber acquisition costs, resulting in lower operating margins. Our depreciation and amortization expenses have increased as a result of the expansion of our networks.
The increase in operating costs and expenses in 2004 includes a Ps. 18,701 million, or 92.1%, increase in cost of equipment reflecting principally subscriber growth. As a percentage of our equipment revenues, cost of equipment increased only from 159.9% in 2003 to 162.4% in 2004.
Operating Income
Our operating income totaled Ps. 23,494 million, a 24.4% increase compared to Ps. 18,892 million in 2003. As a percentage of our operating revenues, operating income for the year ended December 31, 2004 decreased to 17.4% as compared to 20.9% during the year ended December 31, 2003. For the year ended December 31, 2004, we reported positive operating income in all of our geographic markets, other than Brazil and Argentina.
Comprehensive Financing Income
We had comprehensive financing income of Ps. 1,907 million in 2004, as compared to Ps. 2,233 million in 2003. This decrease reflects an increase in our interest and other financial expenses, which were offset by increases in foreign exchange and monetary gains. Our net interest and other financial expenses increased by Ps. 1,824 million to Ps. 3,488 million, principally as a result of a higher percentage of our total debt represented by longer-term debt, fixed rate debt and non-U.S. dollar-denominated debt in 2004 as compared to 2003 and expenses incurred in connection with the offering during 2004 of senior notes in an aggregate principal amount of U.S.$2.1 billion. Foreign exchange gains increased by Ps. 772 million during 2004, to Ps. 2,197, principally as a result of the appreciation of the Brazilian real and the Colombian peso relative to the U.S. dollar, and net gains from monetary position increased by Ps. 727 million, to Ps. 3,200 million, mainly as a result of an increase in our level of net monetary liabilities.
S-14
Income Tax and Employee Profit-Sharing
During 2004, we recorded provisions for income tax and employee profit sharing of Ps. 8,531 million, as compared to Ps. 3,708 million in 2003. This increase reflects principally an increase in deferred taxes relating to our operations in Mexico, including a provision of Ps. 3,255 million for deferred taxes recorded in the fourth quarter of 2004. These deferred taxes recognized in Mexico were recorded principally in connection with losses or expenses arising from the sale and leaseback of telephone plant in December 2004 (for a value of approximately Ps. 3,534 million), licensing payments made in respect of our trademarks and an increase in inventories.
Net Income
For the year ended December 31, 2004, we had net income of Ps. 16,513 million. Net income increased by 4.4% compared to the Ps. 15,812 million reported during the year ended December 31, 2003. This increase in net income reflects principally the increase in our operating income during 2004, which was partially offset by the increase in our tax and employee profit sharing expenses. Basic net income per share was Ps. 1.35 for the year ended December 31, 2004.
Outstanding Indebtedness
At December 31, 2004, we had indebtedness of Ps. 61,458 million, of which Ps. 5,392 million (or 8.8%) was classified as short-term. At December 31, 2003, we had indebtedness of Ps. 51,872 million, of which Ps. 12,737 million (or 24.6%) was classified as short-term. Approximately Ps. 39,948 million or 65.3% of our total indebtedness at December 31, 2004 was denominated in U.S. dollars, and approximately Ps. 35,027 million or 57.4% bore interest at variable rates. During 2004, we issued senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of Ps. 23,656 million (U.S.$2.1 billion) in the international capital markets. The net proceeds from these offerings were principally used to refinance indebtedness then outstanding and to fund capital expenditures and acquisitions.
The maturities of our debt at December 31, 2004 were as follows:
Years |
Amount | ||
(millions of constant pesos as of December 31, 2004) | |||
2005 |
Ps. | 5,392 | |
2006 |
9,112 | ||
2007 |
9,840 | ||
2008 |
8,042 | ||
2009 |
11,619 | ||
2010 and thereafter |
17,453 | ||
Total |
Ps. | 61,458 | |
We regularly assess our interest rate and currency exchange exposures in order to determine whether to hedge our exposures. We may use derivative instruments to hedge our exposures. As of December 31, 2004, after taking into account derivative transactions, approximately 52.1% of our total debt was effectively denominated in U.S. dollars and approximately 35% was effectively subject to floating rates.
Selected Balance Sheet and Other Data
At December 31, 2004, cash and cash equivalents amounted to Ps. 16,518 million, as compared to Ps. 9,769 million as of December 31, 2003. During the year ended December 31, 2004, we used approximately Ps. 13,630 million to pay dividends and repurchase our shares. We have accrued approximately Ps. 22,388 million in capital expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2004, of which a portion has already been paid and a portion
S-15
was included as accounts payable at December 31, 2004. Our accounts payable at December 31, 2004 amounted to Ps. 37,769 million, as compared to Ps. 20,980 million at December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2004, we had total assets of Ps. 195,901 million, total liabilities of Ps. 118,334 million and total stockholders equity of Ps. 77,568 million, as compared to Ps. 157,762 million, Ps. 84,959 million and Ps. 72,804 million, respectively, at December 31, 2003.
Share Repurchase Program
We have continued our share repurchase program. During 2004, we repurchased approximately 587 million L shares and 2.8 million A shares for aggregate consideration of Ps. 12,211 million.
Capital Expenditures
We have preliminarily budgeted U.S.$2.4 billion for capital expenditures for 2005. We expect to spend approximately 55% of that amount in South America and the remainder in Mexico, Central America and the United States. Our budgeted capital expenditures may be revised during the course of the year.
Recent Acquisitions
In June 2004, we acquired Megatel de Honduras, which provides wireless and other telecommunications services in Honduras, for U.S.$81.7 million, and in August 2004 we acquired a 50.03% interest in ENITEL for U.S.$128 million, thereby increasing our interest in ENITEL to 99.03%. ENITEL provides fixed, mobile and other telecommunication services in Nicaragua.
In June 2004, we acquired a license to provide wireless services in the 1900 megahertz spectrum in the Republic of Uruguay at a cost of U.S.$14.2 million.
In July 2004, we acquired an additional 8% interest in CTI for approximately U.S.$17.1 million, thereby increasing our interest in CTI to 100%.
In July 2004, we were awarded a license to operate wireless services in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil for R$51.2 million.
In August 2004, we acquired an additional 3.84% interest in Comcel from one of its minority shareholders, Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones TELECOM, for U.S.$25.1 million, thereby increasing our interest in Comcel to 99.98%.
In December 2004, we acquired an additional 41.54% interest in CTE for approximately U.S.$295 million, thereby increasing our interest in CTE to 94.4%. We acquired additional interests in CTE over the course of the month, bringing our stake to 95.2% at December 31, 2004.
Our Board of Directors
At a meeting of our board of directors held on July 13, 2004, Mr. Carlos Slim Helú was appointed as honorary lifetime chairman of our board and his son Mr. Patrick Slim Domit was appointed as the new chairman of our board of directors.
Related Party Transactions
Our board of directors has approved the payment of U.S.$30 million in fees to América Telecom during 2005 for consulting services.
S-16
Auction for Additional Radio Spectrum in Mexico
In December 2004, the Mexican government initiated the process of auctioning 1900 megahertz spectrum. We have obtained an authorization from the Comisión Federal de Competencia (Federal Competition Commission, or Cofeco) to participate in the auction. However, Cofeco issued regulations changing the amount of spectrum that could be acquired by bidders, which resulted in us and other bidders being permitted to acquire less additional spectrum than originally contemplated. In our case, the new regulations would have allowed us to effectively bid for 10 megahertz per region, instead of 20 megahertz. The regulations were challenged by a number of bidders, including us. We obtained an injunction from the court suspending the effects, pending final resolution, of the new limitations proposed by Cofeco. We cannot assure you that the courts will finally rule in our favor to revoke these limitations. In the meantime, the auction has been temporarily suspended by the Comisión Federal de Telecomunicaciones (Federal Telecommunications Commission, or Cofetel) in light of a ruling obtained by Operadora Unefon that would allow it to participate in the auction, notwithstanding that it had not originally been permitted to so participate.
We cannot assure you that, if additional spectrum is awarded to us by Cofetel, a third party will not appeal the process or the result of such bidding process. Any restrictions on our ability to acquire or use spectrum may have a material effect on our business.
S-17
The following description of the particular terms of the notes supplements the description of the general terms set forth in the accompanying prospectus under the heading Description of Debt Securities. It is important for you to consider the information contained in the accompanying prospectus and this prospectus supplement before making your decision to invest in the notes. If any specific information regarding the notes in this prospectus supplement is inconsistent with the more general terms of the notes described in the accompanying prospectus, you should rely on the information contained in this prospectus supplement.
In this section, references to we, us and our are to América Móvil, S.A. de C.V. only and do not include our subsidiaries or affiliates. References to Telcel or the guarantor are to Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., which is our subsidiary and the guarantor of the notes. References to the notes include both the notes and the guarantees, except where otherwise indicated or as the context otherwise requires. References to holders mean those who have notes registered in their names on the books that we or the trustee maintain for this purpose, and not those who own beneficial interests in notes issued in book-entry form through The Depository Trust Company or in notes registered in street name. Owners of beneficial interests in the notes should refer to Form of Notes, Clearing and Settlement in this supplemental prospectus and Form of Debt Securities, Clearing and Settlement in the accompanying prospectus.
The notes will be a series of notes issued under the indenture and a supplemental indenture relating to such series. The following discussion of provisions of the notes and the guarantees applies to such series of notes.
General
Indenture and Supplemental Indenture
The notes will be issued under an indenture, dated as of March 9, 2004, and a supplemental indenture, to be dated as of February 25, 2005. Both the indenture and the supplemental indenture are agreements among us, Telcel, as guarantor, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as trustee. The trustee has the following two main roles:
| First, the trustee can enforce your rights against us if we default in respect of the notes and Telcel defaults in respect of the guarantees. There are some limitations on the extent to which the trustee acts on your behalf, which are described under Description of Debt SecuritiesDefaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults in the accompanying prospectus. |
| Second, the trustee performs administrative duties for us, such as making interest payments and sending notices to holders of notes. |
Principal and Interest
The aggregate principal amount of the notes will be U.S.$1,000,000,000. The notes will mature on March 1, 2035.
The notes will bear interest at a rate of 6 3/8% per year from February 25, 2005. Interest on the notes will be payable semi-annually on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning on September 1, 2005, to the holders in whose names the notes are registered at the close of business on the February 15 or August 15 immediately preceding the related interest payment date.
We will pay interest on the notes on the interest payment dates stated above and at maturity. Each payment of interest due on an interest payment date or at maturity will include interest accrued from and including the last date to which interest has been paid or made available for payment, or from the issue date, if none has been paid or made available for payment, to but excluding the relevant payment date. We will compute interest on the notes on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.
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Subsidiary Guarantor
Telcel will irrevocably and unconditionally guarantee the full and punctual payment of principal, premium, if any, interest, additional amounts and any other amounts that may become due and payable by us in respect of the notes. If we fail to pay any such amount, Telcel will immediately pay the amount that is due and required to be paid.
Ranking of the Notes and the Guarantees
We are a holding company and our principal assets are shares that we hold in our subsidiaries. The notes will not be secured by any of our assets or properties. As a result, by owning the notes, you will be one of our unsecured creditors. The notes will not be subordinated to any of our other unsecured debt obligations. In the event of a bankruptcy or liquidation proceeding against us, the notes would rank equally in right of payment with all our other unsecured and unsubordinated debt. As of December 31, 2004, we had, on an unconsolidated basis (parent company only), unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 53,339 million (U.S.$4,735 million).
Telcels guarantees of the notes will not be secured by any of its assets or properties. As a result, if Telcel is required to pay under the guarantees, holders of the notes would be unsecured creditors of Telcel. The guarantees will not be subordinated to any of Telcels other unsecured debt obligations. In the event of a bankruptcy or liquidation proceeding against Telcel, the guarantees would rank equally in right of payment with all of Telcels other unsecured and unsubordinated debt. As of December 31, 2004, Telcel had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 54,646 million (U.S.$4,851 million), excluding subordinated debt owed to other of our subsidiaries.
A creditor of Telcel, including a holder of the notes, which are guaranteed by Telcel, may face limitations under Mexican law in attempting to enforce a claim against Telcels assets to the extent those assets are used in providing public service under Telcels concessions.
Stated Maturity and Maturity
The day on which the principal amount of the notes is scheduled to become due is called the stated maturity of the principal. The principal may become due before the stated maturity by reason of redemption or acceleration after a default. The day on which the principal actually becomes due, whether at the stated maturity or earlier, is called the maturity of the principal.
We also use the terms stated maturity and maturity to refer to the dates when interest payments become due. For example, we may refer to a regular interest payment date when an installment of interest is scheduled to become due as the stated maturity of that installment. When we refer to the stated maturity or the maturity of the notes without specifying a particular payment, we mean the stated maturity or maturity, as the case may be, of the principal.
Form and Denominations
The notes will be issued only in registered form without coupons and in denominations of U.S.$2,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof.
Except in limited circumstances, the notes will be issued in the form of global notes. See Form of Debt Securities, Clearing and Settlement in the accompanying prospectus.
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Further Issues
We reserve the right, from time to time without the consent of holders of the notes, to issue additional notes on terms and conditions identical to those of the notes, which additional notes shall increase the aggregate principal amount of, and shall be consolidated and form a single series with, the notes.
Payment of Additional Amounts
We are required by Mexican law to deduct Mexican withholding taxes from payments of interest to investors who are not residents of Mexico for tax purposes as described under TaxationMexican Tax Considerations.
Subject to the limitations and exceptions described in Description of Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts in the accompanying prospectus, we will pay to holders of the notes all additional amounts that may be necessary so that every net payment of interest or principal to the holder will not be less than the amount provided for in the notes. By net payment, we mean the amount that we or our paying agent will pay the holder after deducting or withholding an amount for or on account of any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or other governmental charges imposed with respect to that payment by a Mexican taxing authority. See Description of Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts in the accompanying prospectus.
Optional Redemption
We will not be permitted to redeem the notes before their stated maturity, except as set forth below. The notes will not be entitled to the benefit of any sinking fundmeaning that we will not deposit money on a regular basis into any separate account to repay your notes. In addition, you will not be entitled to require us to repurchase your notes from you before the stated maturity.
Optional Redemption With Make-Whole Amount
We will have the right at our option to redeem any of the notes in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time prior to their maturity, on at least 30 days but not more than 60 days notice, at a redemption price equal to the greater of (1) 100% of the principal amount of such notes and (2) the sum of the present values of each remaining scheduled payment of principal and interest thereon (exclusive of interest accrued to the date of redemption) discounted to the redemption date on a semiannual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Treasury Rate plus 35 basis points (the Make-Whole Amount), plus in each case accrued interest on the principal amount of the notes to the date of redemption.
Treasury Rate means, with respect to any redemption date, the rate per annum equal to the semiannual equivalent yield to maturity or interpolated maturity (on a day count basis) of the Comparable Treasury Issue, assuming a price for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed as a percentage of its principal amount) equal to the Comparable Treasury Price for such redemption date.
Comparable Treasury Issue means the United States Treasury security or securities selected by an Independent Investment Banker as having an actual or interpolated maturity comparable to the remaining term of the notes to be redeemed that would be utilized, at the time of selection and in accordance with customary financial practice, in pricing new issues of corporate debt securities of a comparable maturity to the remaining term of such notes.
Independent Investment Banker means one of the Reference Treasury Dealers appointed by us.
Comparable Treasury Price means, with respect to any redemption date (1) the average of the Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations for such redemption date, after excluding the highest and lowest such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotation or (2) if the trustee obtains fewer than four such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations, the average of all such quotations.
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Reference Treasury Dealer means Credit Suisse First Boston LLC or its affiliates which are primary United States government securities dealers and two other leading primary United States government securities dealers in New York City reasonably designated by us; provided, however, that if any of the foregoing shall cease to be a primary United States government securities dealer in New York City (a Primary Treasury Dealer), we will substitute therefor another Primary Treasury Dealer.
Reference Treasury Dealer Quotation means, with respect to each Reference Treasury Dealer and any redemption date, the average, as determined by the trustee, of the bid and asked prices for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed in each case as a percentage of its principal amount) quoted in writing to the trustee by such Reference Treasury Dealer at 3:30 pm New York time on the third business day preceding such redemption date.
On and after the redemption date, interest will cease to accrue on the notes or any portion of the notes called for redemption (unless we default in the payment of the redemption price and accrued interest). On or before the redemption date, we will deposit with the trustee money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and (unless the redemption date shall be an interest payment date) accrued interest to the redemption date on the notes to be redeemed on such date. If less than all of the notes are to be redeemed, the notes to be redeemed shall be selected by the trustee by such method as the trustee shall deem fair and appropriate.
Redemption for Taxation Reasons
We will have the right to redeem the notes upon the occurrence of certain changes in the tax laws of Mexico as a result of which we become obligated to pay additional amounts on the notes in respect of withholding taxes at a rate in excess of 10%, in which case we may redeem the notes in whole but not in part at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued interest to the redemption date. See Description of Debt Securities Optional Redemption Redemption for Taxation Reasons in the accompanying prospectus.
Covenants
Holders of the notes will benefit from certain covenants contained in the indenture and affecting our and Telcels ability to incur debt, merge with other entities and take other specified actions. You should read the information under the headings Description of Debt Securities Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets and Description of Debt Securities Covenants in the accompanying prospectus.
Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults
Holders of the notes will have special rights if an event of default with respect to the notes that you hold occurs and is not cured. You should read the information under the heading Description of Debt Securities Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults in the accompanying prospectus.
Transfer Agents
We may appoint one or more transfer agents, at whose designated offices any notes in certificated form may be transferred or exchanged and also surrendered before payment is made at maturity. Initially, we have appointed the trustee, at its corporate office in New York City, as transfer agent. We may also choose to act as our own transfer agent. We must notify you of changes in the transfer agents as described under Notices. If we issue notes in certificated form, holders of notes in certificated form will be able to transfer their notes, in whole or in part, by surrendering the notes, with a duly completed form of transfer, for registration of transfer at the office of our transfer agent in New York City, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. We will not charge any fee for the registration or transfer or exchange, except that we may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any applicable tax or other governmental charge payable in connection with the transfer.
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Notices
As long as we issue notes in global form, notices to be given to holders will be given to DTC, in accordance with its applicable policies as in effect from time to time. If we issue notes in certificated form, notices to be given to holders will be sent by mail to the respective addresses of the holders as they appear in the trustees records, and will be deemed given when mailed.
Neither the failure to give any notice to a particular holder, nor any defect in a notice given to a particular holder, will affect the sufficiency of any notice given to another holder.
Our Relationship with the Trustee
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. is initially serving as the trustee for the notes. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and its affiliates may have other business relationships with us from time to time. Affiliates of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. owned approximately 7.5% of our limited-voting L Shares outstanding as of December 31, 2004.
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The following summary of certain Mexican federal and U.S. federal income tax considerations is based on the advice of Galicia y Robles, S.C., with respect to Mexican federal taxes, and on the advice of Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, LLP, New York, New York, with respect to U.S. federal income taxes. This summary contains a description of certain Mexican federal and U.S. federal income tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the notes, but does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to purchase the notes. This summary does not describe any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, locality or taxing jurisdiction other than the United States and Mexico.
This summary is based on the tax laws of Mexico and the United States as in effect on the date of this prospectus supplement (including the tax treaty described below), as well as on rules and regulations of Mexico and regulations, rulings and decisions of the United States available on or before such date and now in effect. All of the foregoing is subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued validity of this summary.
Prospective purchasers of the notes should consult their own tax advisers as to the Mexican, United States or other tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the notes, including, in particular, the application to their particular situations of the tax considerations discussed below, as well as the application of state, local, foreign or other tax laws.
Mexican Tax Considerations
The following is a general summary of certain consequences under the Mexican Ley del Impuesto sobre la Renta (the Mexican Income Tax Law) and rules and regulations thereunder, as currently in effect, of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the notes by a holder that is not a resident of Mexico and that will not hold notes or a beneficial interest therein in connection with the conduct of a trade or business through a permanent establishment in Mexico (a foreign holder).
For purposes of Mexican taxation, tax residency is a highly technical definition that involves the application of a number of factors. Generally, an individual is a resident of Mexico if he or she has established his or her home in Mexico, and a corporation is considered a resident if it is incorporated under the laws of Mexico or it has its center of interests in Mexico. However, any determination of residence should take into account the particular situation of each person or legal entity.
U.S./Mexico and Other Tax Treaties
The United States and Mexico have entered into a Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation (collectively, with subsequent Protocols thereto, referred to as the tax treaty). Provisions of the tax treaty that may affect the taxation of certain United States holders are summarized below. The United States and Mexico have also entered into an agreement that covers the exchange of information with respect to tax matters. Mexico has also entered into and is negotiating several other tax treaties that may reduce the amount of Mexican withholding tax to which payments of interest on the notes may be subject. Prospective purchasers of the notes should consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences, if any, of such treaties.
Payments of Interest, Principal and Premium, in Respect of the Notes
Under the Mexican Income Tax Law, payments of interest we make in respect of the notes (including payments of principal in excess of the issue price of such notes, which, under Mexican law, are deemed to be interest) to a foreign holder will be subject to a Mexican withholding tax assessed at a rate of 4.9% if (1) the notes are placed through banks or brokerage houses (casas de bolsa) in a country with which Mexico has entered into a tax treaty for the avoidance of double taxation, which is in effect, (2) the notes are registered with the
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Special Section (Sección Especial) of the National Registry of Securities (the Registro Nacional de Valores or the RNV), and (3) the information requirements specified by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público) (the SHCP) under its general rules are satisfied. In case such requirements are not met, the applicable withholding tax rate will be 10%. We believe that because the conditions described in (1) through (3) above will be satisfied, the applicable withholding tax rate will be 4.9%.
Under general regulations published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación, which regulations are subject to amendment or repeal, the information requirements which must be satisfied, according to the SHCP, are generally that: (a) the notes are registered in the Special Section of the RNV (and copies of the approval of such registration are filed with the SHCP), (b) we timely file with the SHCP, after completion of the transaction contemplated by this prospectus supplement, certain information relating to the issuance of the notes, (c) we timely file with the SHCP information representing that no party related to us, jointly or individually, directly or indirectly, is the effective beneficiary of 5% or more of the aggregate amount of each interest payment, and (d) we maintain records which evidence compliance with items (a), (b) and (c) above.
A higher income tax withholding rate (up to a maximum of 30% for 2005, 29% for 2006 and 28% for 2007 and beyond) will be applicable when the effective beneficiaries of payments treated as interest, whether directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, who receive more than 5% of the aggregate amount of such payments on the notes and are (1) our shareholders who own, directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, more than 10% of our voting stock, or (2) entities more than 20% of whose stock is owned, directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, by us or by persons related to us. For such purposes, under the Mexican Income Tax Law, persons are considered related if one possesses an interest in the business of the other, common interests exist between them, or a third person holds an interest in the business or property of both persons.
Payments of interest we make with respect to the notes to a non-Mexican pension or retirement fund will be generally exempt from Mexican withholding taxes, provided that (1) the fund is the effective beneficiary of such interest income, (2) the fund is duly established pursuant to the laws of its country of origin, (3) the relevant interest income is exempt from taxation in such country, and (4) the fund is duly registered with the SHCP.
We have agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional amounts to the holders of the notes in respect of the Mexican withholding taxes mentioned above. If we pay additional amounts in respect of such Mexican withholding taxes, any refunds of such additional amounts will be for our account. See Description of NotesPayment of Additional Amounts.
Holders or beneficial owners of the notes may be requested to provide certain information or documentation necessary to enable us to establish the appropriate Mexican withholding tax rate applicable to such holders or beneficial owners. In the event that the specified information or documentation concerning the holder or beneficial owner, if requested, is not provided on a timely basis, our obligations to pay additional amounts may be limited as set forth under Description of NotesPayment of Additional Amounts.
Under the Mexican Income Tax Law, payments of principal we make to a foreign holder of the notes will not be subject to any Mexican withholding or similar taxes.
Taxation of Disposition of the Notes
The application of Mexican tax law provisions to capital gains realized on the disposition of the notes by foreign holders is unclear. We expect that no Mexican tax will be imposed on transfers of notes between Foreign Holders effected outside of Mexico.
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Other Mexican Taxes
A foreign holder will not be liable for estate, gift, inheritance or similar taxes with respect to its holdings of the notes. There are no Mexican stamp, issue registration or similar taxes payable by a foreign holder with respect to the notes.
United States Tax Considerations
The following is a summary of certain United States federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to a beneficial owner of notes that is a citizen or resident of the United States or a domestic corporation or otherwise subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of the notes (a U.S. holder). It does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a particular investors decision to invest in the notes.
In addition, this summary deals only with investors that are U.S. holders who acquire the notes in the United States as part of the initial offering of the notes, who will own the notes as capital assets, and whose functional currency is the U.S. dollar. It does not address U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to investors that own or are treated as owning 10% or more of our voting shares or who may be subject to special tax rules, such as banks, financial institutions, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies or dealers in securities or currencies, certain short-term holders of the notes, or persons that hedge their exposure in the notes or will hold notes as a position in a straddle or conversion transaction or as part of a synthetic security or other integrated financial transaction. U.S. holders should be aware that the U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding the notes may be materially different for investors described in the prior sentence, including as a result of recent changes in law applicable to investors with short holding periods or that engage in hedging transactions.
Payments of Interest and Additional Amounts
Payments of the gross amount of interest and additional amounts (as defined in Description of NotesPayment of Additional Amounts, i.e., including amounts withheld in respect of Mexican withholding taxes) with respect to a debt security will be taxable to a U.S. holder as ordinary interest income at the time that such payments are accrued or are received, in accordance with the U.S. holders method of tax accounting. Thus, accrual method U.S. holders will report stated interest on the debt security as it accrues, and cash method U.S. holders will report interest when it is received or unconditionally made available for receipt.
Foreign Source Income and Foreign Tax Credits
The Mexican withholding tax that is imposed on interest will be treated as a foreign income tax eligible, subject to generally applicable limitations and conditions under U.S. tax law, for credit against a U.S. holders federal income tax liability or, at the U.S. holders election, for deduction in computing the holders taxable income. Interest and additional amounts paid on the notes generally will constitute foreign source passive income. Gain or loss realized by a U.S. holder on the sale or other disposition of a debt security generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.
The calculation and availability of foreign tax credits and, in the case of a U.S. holder that elects to deduct foreign taxes, the availability of deductions, involves the application of complex rules that depend on a U.S. holders particular circumstances. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of foreign tax credits and the treatment of additional amounts.
Disposition of the Notes
A U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss on the sale, redemption or other disposition of the notes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, redemption or other disposition (less any amounts attributable to accrued but unpaid interest, which will be taxable as such) and the U.S. holders adjusted tax basis in the notes. Gain or loss realized by a U.S. holder on such sale, redemption or other disposition generally will be long-term capital gain or loss if, at the time of the disposition, the notes have been held for more than one year.
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Information Reporting and Back-up Withholding
The paying agent may be required to file information returns with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service with respect to payments made to certain U.S. holders on the notes. A U.S. holder may be subject to backup withholding on the payments that the U.S. taxpayer receives on the notes unless such U.S. holder (i) is a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories and demonstrates this fact, or (ii) provides a correct taxpayer identification number on an IRS Form W-9, certifies as to no loss of exemption from backup withholding and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Any amounts withheld under these rules will be allowed as a credit against such U.S. holders federal income tax liability and may entitle such U.S. holder to a refund, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS.
Non-U.S. Holders
A holder or beneficial owner of notes that is not a U.S. holder (a non-U.S. holder) generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on interest received on the notes. In addition, a non-U.S. holder will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale of notes unless, in the case of gain realized by an individual non-U.S. holder, the non-U.S. holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.
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Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in an underwriting agreement dated February 17, 2005, we have agreed to sell to Credit Suisse First Boston LLC all of the notes.
The underwriting agreement provides that the underwriter is obligated to purchase all of the notes, if any are purchased.
The underwriter proposes to offer the notes initially at the public offering price on the cover page of this prospectus supplement. After the initial public offering, the underwriter may change the public offering price.
We estimate that our out of pocket expenses for this offering will be approximately U.S.$210,000.
The notes are a new issue of securities with no established trading market. The underwriter intends to make a secondary market for the notes. However, the underwriter is not obligated to do so and may discontinue making a secondary market for the notes at any time without notice. No assurance can be given as to how liquid the trading market for the notes will be.
We have agreed to indemnify the underwriter against liabilities under the Securities Act, or contribute to payments which the underwriter may be required to make in that respect.
In connection with the offering, the underwriter may engage in stabilizing transactions, over-allotment transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids.
| Stabilizing transactions permit bids to purchase the underlying security so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum. |
| Over-allotment involves sales by the underwriter of notes in excess of the principal amount of the notes the underwriter is obligated to purchase from us, which creates a syndicate short position. |
| Syndicate covering transactions involve purchases of notes in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover syndicate short positions. A short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the notes in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. |
| Penalty bids permit the representatives to reclaim a selling concession from a syndicate member when the notes originally sold by the syndicate member are purchased in a stabilizing transaction or a syndicate covering transaction to cover syndicate short positions. |
These stabilizing transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of the notes or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the notes. As a result, the price of the notes may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. These transactions, if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.
The notes are offered for sale in those jurisdictions in the United States, Europe, Asia and elsewhere where it is lawful to make such offers.
The underwriter has represented and agreed that it has not offered, sold or delivered and will not offer, sell or deliver any notes directly or indirectly, or distribute this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus or any other offering material relating to the notes, in or from any jurisdiction except under circumstances that will result in compliance with the applicable laws and regulations thereof and that will not impose any obligations on us except as set forth in the underwriting agreement.
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In particular, the underwriter has represented and agreed that:
| it has not offered or sold, and, prior to the expiration of the period of six months from the closing date for the issue of the notes, will not offer or sell any notes to persons in the United Kingdom, except to those persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the purpose of their businesses or otherwise in circumstances which have not resulted and will not result in an offer to the public in the United Kingdom within the meaning of the Public Offers of Securities Regulations 1995; it has complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the Financial Services Act 1986 and all applicable provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) with respect to anything done by it in relation to the notes in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom; it has only communicated or caused to be communicated and will only communicate or cause to be communicated any invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of FMSA) received by it in connection with the issue or sale of the notes in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply to us; and |
| the notes may not be offered, sold, transferred or delivered in or from the Netherlands as part of their initial distribution or at any time thereafter, directly or indirectly, other than to banks, pension funds, insurance companies, securities firms, investment institutions, central governments, large international and supranational institutions and other comparable entities, including, among others, treasuries and finance companies of large enterprises, which trade or invest in securities in the course of a profession or trade. Individuals or legal entities who or which do not trade or invest in securities in the course of their profession or trade may not participate in the offering of the notes, and this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus or any other offering material relating to the notes may not be considered an offer or the prospect of an offer to sell or exchange the notes. |
Credit Suisse First Boston LLC will make the notes available for distribution on the Internet through a proprietary Web site and/or a third-party system operated by MarketAxess Corporation, an Internet-based communications technology provider. MarketAxess Corporation is providing the system as a conduit for communications between Credit Suisse First Boston LLC and its customers and is not a party to any transactions. MarketAxess Corporation, a registered broker-dealer, will receive compensation from Credit Suisse First Boston LLC based on transactions conducted through the system. Credit Suisse First Boston LLC will make the notes available to its customers through the Internet distributions, whether made through a proprietary or third-party system, on the same terms as distributions made through other channels.
We expect that delivery of the notes will be made against payment therefor on or about the closing date specified on the cover page of this prospectus supplement, which is the fifth business day following the date hereof (this settlement cycle being referred to as T+5). Under Rule 15c6-1 of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Exchange Act, trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in three business days, unless the parties to that trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, purchasers who wish to trade notes on the date hereof or the next succeeding business day will be required, by virtue of the fact that the notes initially will settle in T+5, to specify an alternate settlement cycle at the time of any such trade to prevent a failed settlement and should consult their own advisor.
The underwriter and its affiliates have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, investment banking and other commercial dealings in the ordinary course of business with us. They have received customary fees and commissions for these transactions.
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Resale Restrictions
The distribution of the notes in Canada is being made only on a private placement basis exempt from the requirement that we prepare and file a prospectus with the securities regulatory authorities in each province where trades of the notes are made. Any resale of the notes in Canada must be made under applicable securities laws which will vary depending on the relevant jurisdiction, and which may require resales to be made under available statutory exemptions or under a discretionary exemption granted by the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authority. Purchasers are advised to seek legal advice prior to any resale of the notes.
Representations of Purchasers
By purchasing notes in Canada and accepting a purchase confirmation, a purchaser is representing to us and the dealer from whom the purchase confirmation is received that:
| the purchaser is entitled under applicable provincial securities laws to purchase the notes without the benefit of a prospectus qualified under those securities laws, |
| where required by law, that the purchaser is purchasing as principal and not as agent, and |
| the purchaser has reviewed the text above under Resale Restrictions. |
Rights of Action Ontario Purchasers Only
Under Ontario securities legislation, a purchaser who purchases a security offered by this prospectus during the period of distribution will have a statutory right of action for damages, or while still the owner of the notes, for rescission against us in the event that this prospectus supplement contains a misrepresentation. A purchaser will be deemed to have relied on the misrepresentation. The right of action for damages is exercisable not later than the earlier of 180 days from the date the purchaser first had knowledge of the facts giving rise to the cause of action and three years from the date on which payment is made for the notes. The right of action for rescission is exercisable not later than 180 days from the date on which payment is made for the notes. If a purchaser elects to exercise the right of action for rescission, the purchaser will have no right of action for damages against us. In no case will the amount recoverable in any action exceed the price at which the notes were offered to the purchaser and if the purchaser is shown to have purchased the securities with knowledge of the misrepresentation, we will have no liability. In the case of an action for damages, will not be liable for all or any portion of the damages that are proven to not represent the depreciation in value of the notes as a result of the misrepresentation relied upon. These rights are in addition to, and without derogation from, any other rights or remedies available at law to an Ontario purchaser. The foregoing is a summary of the rights available to an Ontario purchaser. Ontario purchasers should refer to the complete text of the relevant statutory provisions.
Enforcement of Legal Rights
All of our directors and officers as well as the experts named herein may be located outside of Canada and, as a result, it may not be possible for Canadian purchasers to effect service of process within Canada upon us or those persons. All or a substantial portion of our assets and the assets of those persons may be located outside of Canada and, as a result, it may not be possible to satisfy a judgment against us or those persons in Canada or to enforce a judgment obtained in Canadian courts against us or those persons outside of Canada.
Taxation and Eligibility for Investment
Canadian purchasers of the notes should consult their own legal and tax advisors with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in the notes in their particular circumstances and about the eligibility of the notes for investment by the purchaser under relevant Canadian legislation.
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The validity of the notes offered and sold in this offering will be passed upon for us by Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, our United States counsel, and for the underwriter by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, United States counsel to the underwriter. Certain matters of Mexican law relating to the notes will be passed upon for us by Galicia y Robles, S.C., our Mexican counsel, and for the underwriter by Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes, S.C., Mexican counsel to the underwriter.
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P R O S P E C T U S
U.S.$2,000,000,000
América Móvil, S.A. de C.V.
Debt Securities
Unconditionally Guaranteed by
Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V.
We may offer debt securities pursuant to this prospectus from time to time with an aggregate initial offering price of up to U.S.$2,000,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in other currencies, currency units or composite currencies). Our wholly-owned subsidiary Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., also known as Telcel, has irrevocably and unconditionally agreed to guarantee the payment of principal, premium, if any, interest and all other amounts in respect of the debt securities. An accompanying prospectus supplement will specify the terms of the debt securities.
We may sell these debt securities directly or to or through underwriters or dealers, and also to other purchasers or through agents. The names of any underwriters or agents will be set forth in an accompanying prospectus supplement.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
November 22, 2004
This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (which we refer to as the SEC) utilizing a shelf registration process. Under this shelf process, América Móvil may sell or issue debt securities in one or more offerings with an aggregate initial offering price of up to U.S.$2,000,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in other currencies, currency units or composite currencies).
This prospectus provides you only with a general description of the debt securities that we may offer. Each time we offer securities pursuant to this prospectus, we will attach a prospectus supplement to the front of this prospectus that will contain specific information about the particular offering and the terms of those securities. The prospectus supplements may also add, update or change other information contained in this prospectus. The registration statement that we filed with the SEC includes exhibits that provide more detail on the matters discussed in this prospectus. Before you invest in any securities offered by this prospectus, you should read this prospectus, any related prospectus supplements and the related exhibits filed with the SEC, together with the additional information described under the headings Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference.
In this prospectus, unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires, references to América Móvil mean América Móvil, S.A. de C.V. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
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This prospectus contains forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include the following:
| projections of operating revenues, net income (loss), net income (loss) per share, capital expenditures, indebtedness levels, dividends, capital structure or other financial items or ratios, |
| statements of our plans, objectives or goals, including those relating to competition, regulation and rates, |
| statements about our future economic performance or that of Mexico or other countries in which we operate, |
| competitive developments in the telecommunications sector in each of the markets where we currently operate, |
| other factors and trends affecting the telecommunications industry generally and our financial condition in particular, and |
| statements of assumptions underlying the foregoing statements. |
We use words such as believe, anticipate, plan, expect, intend, target, estimate, project, predict, forecast, guideline, should and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but they are not the only way we identify such statements.
Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. We caution you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include economic and political conditions and government policies in Mexico, Brazil or elsewhere, inflation rates, exchange rates, regulatory developments, new investment opportunities, technological improvements, customer demand and competition. We caution you that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive and that other risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. For additional information on factors that could cause our actual results to differ from expectations reflected in forward-looking statements, please see Risk Factors in this prospectus, any prospectus supplement and our SEC reports incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We do not undertake to update such statements in light of new information or future developments.
You should evaluate any statements made by us in light of these important factors.
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As of June 30, 2004, we were the largest provider of wireless communications services in Latin America and one of the ten largest in the world, with 50.3 million wireless subscribers in ten countries. Because our focus is on Latin America, a substantial majority of our wireless subscribers are prepaid customers. We also had approximately 1.7 million fixed lines in Guatemala and El Salvador at June 30, 2004, making us the largest fixed-line operator in Central America.
Our principal operations are:
| Mexico. Through Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., which operates under the name Telcel, we provide cellular telecommunications service in all nine regions in Mexico, with a network covering approximately 35% of the geographical area of Mexico, including all major cities, and approximately 81% of Mexicos population. At June 30, 2004, Telcel had 25.6 million subscribers, and Telcel is the largest provider of wireless telecommunications services in Mexico. |
| Argentina. In 2003, we acquired CTI, the fourth largest wireless operator in Argentina measured by the number of subscribers. CTI provides nationwide wireless services in Argentina. |
| Brazil. As of June 30, 2004, we were the second largest provider of wireless telecommunications services in Brazil based on the number of subscribers, with approximately 11.1 million subscribers. We operate in Brazil through our subsidiary, Telecom Americas, and a number of operating companies, under a unified brand name, Claro. |
| Central America. We provide fixed-line and wireless services in Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua, through our subsidiaries Telgua, CTE and ENITEL. We also provide wireless services in Nicaragua through our subsidiary Sercom Nicaragua and in Honduras through our subsidiary Megatel de Honduras. |
| Colombia. Our three operating subsidiaries in ColombiaComcel, Occel and Celcaribeoperate under the Comcel brand. As of June 30, 2004, we were the largest wireless operator in the country measured by the number of subscribers. |
| Ecuador. Conecel, our subsidiary in Ecuador, is the largest wireless operator in Ecuador measured by the number of subscribers. Conecel operates under the Porta brand. |
| United States. Our U.S. subsidiary, TracFone, is engaged in the sale and distribution of prepaid wireless services and wireless phones in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. |
Our principal executive offices are at Lago Alberto 366, Edificio Telcel I, Piso 2, Colonia Anáhuac, 11320, México. Our telephone number is (5255) 2581-4411.
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You should carefully consider the following factors in addition to the other information presented or incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESSES
Substantial and increasing competition in the wireless industry could adversely affect the revenues and profitability of our business
Our wireless businesses face substantial competition, typically from at least one other wireless provider, and increasingly from multiple providers. We also face competition from fixed-line telephone companies and, increasingly, other service providers such as cable, paging and Internet companies.
We expect that competition will intensify in the future as a result of the entry of new competitors, the development of new technologies, products and services, and the auction in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate of additional spectrum. We also expect the current consolidation trend in the wireless industry to continue, as companies respond to the need for cost reduction and additional spectrum. This trend may result in larger competitors with greater financial, technical, promotional and other resources to compete with our businesses.
Among other things, our competitors could:
| provide increased handset subsidies; |
| offer higher commissions to retailers; |
| provide free airtime or other services (such as Internet access); |
| expand their networks faster; or |
| develop and deploy improved wireless technologies faster. |
We anticipate that competition will lead to increases in advertising and promotional spending, along with increased demands on access to distribution channels. In addition, portability requirements, which enable customers to switch wireless providers without changing their wireless numbers, have been introduced in some of our markets and may be introduced in other markets in the future. These developments may lead to smaller operating margins, greater choices for customers, possible consumer confusion and increasing movement of customers among competitors, which may make it difficult for us to retain customers or add new customers. The cost of adding new customers may also continue to increase, reducing profitability even if customer growth continues.
Our ability to compete successfully will depend on customer service, on marketing and on our ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the telecommunications industry, including new services, changes in consumer preferences, demographic trends, economic conditions and discount pricing strategies by competitors. If we are unable to respond to competition and compensate for declining prices by adding new customers, increasing usage and offering new services, our revenues and profitability could decline.
Changes in government regulation could hurt our businesses
Our businesses are subject to extensive government regulation and can be adversely affected by changes in law, regulation or regulatory policy. The licensing, construction, operation, sale, resale and interconnection arrangements of wireless telecommunications systems in Latin America and elsewhere are regulated to varying degrees by government or regulatory authorities. Any of these authorities having jurisdiction over our businesses could adopt or change regulations or take other actions that could adversely affect our operations. In particular, the regulation of prices operators may charge for their services could have a material adverse effect on us by reducing our profit margins. In Mexico, Telcels business is subject to extensive government regulation, principally by the Comisión Federal de Telecomunicaciones (Federal Telecommunications Commission, or
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Cofetel) and the Comisión Federal de Competencia (Federal Competition Commission, or Cofeco), and may be adversely affected by changes in law or by actions of Mexican regulatory authorities.
The Mexican Communications Ministry is authorized to impose specific rate and other requirements on any wireless operator that is determined by Cofeco to have substantial market power. While no such determination has been made with respect to the wireless market in Mexico, we can provide no assurances that the regulatory authorities will not make such a determination with respect to Telcel and impose specific rate requirements or other special regulations on us, such as additional requirements regarding disclosure of information or quality of service. Any such new regulation could have a material adverse effect on our operations.
Many Latin American countries are in the process of deregulating and privatizing the provision of communications services, including wireless services, and many of the laws, regulations and licenses that regulate our businesses, including in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, became effective only recently. Consequently, there is only a limited history that would allow us to predict the impact of these legal regulations on our future operations. In addition, changes in political administrations could lead to the adoption of policies concerning competition, privatization and taxation of communications services that may be detrimental to our operations throughout Latin America. These restrictions, which may take the form of preferences for local over foreign ownership of communications licenses and assets, or for government over private ownership, may make it impossible for us to continue to develop our businesses. These restrictions could result in our incurring losses of revenues and require capital investments all of which could materially adversely affect our businesses and results of operations.
We will, in the future, either have to acquire additional radio spectrum capacity or build more cell and switch sites in Mexico in order to expand our customer base and maintain the quality of our services
Licensed radio spectrum is essential to our growth and the quality of our services, particularly for GSM services. In order to utilize less spectrum, we could increase the density of our network by building more cell and switch sites, but such measures could be costly and would be subject to local restrictions and approvals.
The Mexican government has not auctioned additional spectrum since 1998. In 2003, we decided to acquire capacity services from Operadora Unefon in the 1900 megahertz spectrum for a period of 16 years. The Mexican government is now in the process of auctioning 1900 megahertz spectrum, and we have applied to participate in this auction. Prior to participating in any auction for spectrum, each participant must obtain an authorization from Cofeco. A separate authorization is required for each auction, and spectrum for each region is auctioned separately. Cofeco has broad discretion in granting such authorizations, and Cofeco may take into account factors such as competition and capacity utilization prior to granting any authorization to Telcel to participate in any auction.
In 1998, Cofeco did not allow Telcel to participate in certain spectrum auctions, but we believe that the reasons for Cofecos denial are no longer applicable given the entry of new competitors in the Mexican market and our spin-off from Telmex. Although we believe that Cofeco should authorize Telcel to participate in future spectrum auctions, we can give no assurance that it will do so. We cannot assure you that, if additional spectrum is awarded to us by the Mexican government, a third party will not appeal the process or the result of such bidding process. Any restrictions on our ability to acquire or use spectrum may have a material effect on our business.
Our concessions and licenses are subject to termination
The terms of our concessions and licenses typically require the operator to meet specified network build-out requirements and schedules, as well as to maintain minimum quality, service and coverage standards. If we fail to comply with these and other criteria, the result could be revocation of our concessions or licenses, the imposition of fines or other government actions. Our ability to comply with these criteria is subject in certain respects to factors beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our international businesses will be able to comply fully with the terms of their concessions or licenses.
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In Mexico, the Mexican telecommunications law and Telcels concessions include various provisions under which the concessions may be terminated by the Mexican Communications Ministry before their scheduled expiration dates. Among other things, these concessions may be terminated if we fail to meet specified network build-out requirements and schedules or to maintain minimum quality, service and coverage standards by, for example, interrupting service without justified cause or failing to meet interconnection requirements. Also, the Mexican telecommunications law gives certain rights to the Mexican government, including the right to revoke the concessions pursuant to an expropriation or to take over the management of Telcels networks, facilities and personnel in cases of imminent danger to national security, internal peace or the national economy, natural disasters and public unrest. The loss of any one concession could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
We have invested in countries in which we have limited experience, and we may be unsuccessful in addressing the new challenges and risks they present
We have invested in a growing number of telecommunications businesses outside our historical core activity of providing wireless telecommunications services in Mexico, and we plan to continue to do so in the rest of Latin America. These investments have been made in some countries in which we have little experience and may involve risks to which we have not previously been exposed. Some of the investments are in countries that may present different or greater risks than Mexico, such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Many of these businesses are start-up or development-stage companies with unproven business models and inexperienced management that in some cases will require substantial investments in the near future. We cannot assure you that these investments will be successful.
We are subject to significant litigation
Some of our subsidiaries are subject to significant litigation, which if determined adversely to our interests may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects. In Mexico, Telcel is subject to proceedings for alleged antitrust practices. We cannot predict how these proceedings will be resolved and, if resolved contrary to our interests, what fines or restrictions may be imposed on our Mexican operations. These restrictions, which could be imposed by means of special regulations, may include significant limitations on our ability to conduct business as currently conducted.
A system failure could cause delays or interruptions of service, which could cause us to lose customers
We will need to continue to provide our subscribers with reliable service over our network. Some of the risks to our network and infrastructure include the following:
| physical damage to access lines; |
| power surges or outages; |
| software defects; and |
| disruptions beyond our control. |
Disruptions may cause interruptions in service or reduced capacity for customers, either of which could cause us to lose subscribers and incur additional expenses.
If our current churn rate increases, our business could be negatively affected
The cost of acquiring a new subscriber is much higher than the cost of maintaining an existing subscriber. Accordingly, subscriber deactivations, or churn, could have a material negative impact on our operating income, even if we are able to obtain one new subscriber for each lost subscriber. Because a substantial majority of our subscribers are prepaid, we do not have long-term contracts with those subscribers. Our weighted monthly average churn rate for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2003 was 2.9% as compared to 3.2% for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2002. If we experience an increase in our churn rate, our ability to achieve revenue growth could be materially impaired. In addition, a decline in general economic conditions could lead to an increase in churn, particularly among our residential subscribers.
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RISKS RELATING TO THE WIRELESS INDUSTRY GENERALLY
Changes in the wireless industry could affect our future financial performance
The wireless communications industry is experiencing significant change. These changes include, among others, the increasing pace of digital upgrades in existing analog wireless systems, evolving industry standards, ongoing improvements in the capacity and quality of digital technology, shorter development cycles for new products, and changes in end-user needs and preferences. In Mexico and in the other countries in which we conduct business, there is uncertainty as to the pace and extent of growth in subscriber demand, and as to the extent to which prices for airtime and line rental may continue to decline.
There are three existing digital technologies for wireless communications, none of which is compatible with the others. In the past, Telcel and certain of our international businesses used time division multiple access (TDMA) technology for their digital networks, while certain of our other international businesses used code division multiple access (CDMA) as their digital wireless technology. We are introducing global system for mobile communications (GSM) technology in all of our markets. Telcel launched GSM services in Mexico in October 2002, and we have recently offered or are in the process of offering GSM services in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Uruguay and El Salvador. If future wireless technologies that gain widespread acceptance are not compatible with the technologies we use, we may be required to make capital expenditures in excess of our current forecasts in order to upgrade and replace our technology and infrastructure.
We are dependent upon a limited number of suppliers and vendors to provide us with services or equipment on a timely and cost-effective basis
Each of our wireless businesses relies primarily on a single vendor for its switch and cell site equipment and on a single supplier or small group of suppliers for its handsets and other customer equipment. If we had to replace a primary supplier of switch and cell site equipment because, for example, it ceased to provide timely or cost-effective equipment or service, the transition to another supplier could entail delays and additional costs. Supplies of customer equipment may be subject to periodic shortages, and our ability to grow will be limited if we cannot rely on our suppliers to ensure sufficient quantities and quality of equipment.
We may incur significant losses from wireless fraud and from our failure to successfully manage collections
Our wireless businesses incur losses and costs associated with the unauthorized use of these wireless networks, particularly their analog cellular networks. These costs include administrative and capital costs associated with detecting, monitoring and reducing the incidence of fraud. Fraud also affects interconnection costs, capacity costs, administrative costs and payments to other carriers for unbillable fraudulent roaming. In the year ended December 31, 2003, Telcel refunded to its customers approximately Ps. 1.53 million due to wireless fraud. Although we seek to combat this problem through the deployment of anti-fraud technologies and other measures, we cannot assure you that these efforts will be effective or that fraud will not result in material costs for us in the future.
Cloning, which is one form of wireless fraud, involves the use of scanners and other electronic devices to obtain illegally telephone numbers and electronic serial numbers during cellular transmission. Stolen telephone and serial number combinations can be programmed into a cellular phone and used to obtain improper access to cellular networks. Roaming fraud occurs when a phone programmed with a number stolen from one of our subscribers is used to place fraudulent calls from another carriers market, resulting in a roaming fee charged to us that cannot be collected from the subscriber.
Concerns about health risks relating to the use of wireless handsets and base stations may adversely affect our business
Media and other reports have linked radio frequency emissions from wireless handsets and base stations to various health concerns, including cancer, and to interference with various electronic medical devices, including
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hearing aids and pacemakers. Although we do not know of any definitive studies showing that radio frequency emissions raise health concerns, concerns over radio frequency emissions may discourage the use of wireless handsets, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Government authorities could also increase regulation of wireless handsets and base stations as a result of these concerns. In addition, lawsuits have been filed in the United States against certain participants in the wireless industry alleging various adverse health consequences as a result of wireless phone usage, and our businesses may be subject to similar litigation in the future. Research and studies are ongoing, and there can be no assurance that further research and studies will not demonstrate a link between radio frequency emissions and health concerns. Any negative findings in these studies could adversely affect the use of wireless handsets and, as a result, our future financial performance.
RISKS RELATING TO OUR CONTROLLING SHAREHOLDERS AND TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
We are controlled by one shareholder, whose interests may not be consistent with those of holders of the debt securities
A majority of our voting shares are directly or indirectly owned by América Telecom, S.A. de C.V. According to reports of beneficial ownership of our shares filed with the SEC, Carlos Slim Helú and certain members of his immediate family, including his son and member of our Board of Directors, Patick Slim Domit, together own a majority of the voting stock of América Telecom. América Telecom is able to elect a majority of the members of our board of directors and to determine the outcome of other actions requiring a vote of our shareholders, except in very limited cases that require a vote of the holders of L Shares. We cannot assure you that América Telecom will not take actions that are inconsistent with your interests.
We have significant transactions with affiliates
We engage in transactions with Teléfonos de México, S.A. de C.V., or Telmex, and certain subsidiaries of Grupo Carso, S.A. de C.V. and Grupo Financiero Inbursa, S.A. de C.V., all of which are affiliates of América Móvil. Many of these transactions occur in the ordinary course of business and, in the case of transactions with Telmex, are subject to applicable telecommunications regulations in Mexico. Transactions with affiliates may create the potential for conflicts of interest.
Holders of debt securities may find it difficult to enforce civil liabilities against us or our directors, officers and controlling persons
We are organized under the laws of Mexico with its principal place of business (domicilio social) in Mexico City, and most of our directors, officers and controlling persons reside outside the United States. In addition, all or a substantial portion of our assets and their assets are located outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for holders of debt securities to effect service of process within the United States on such persons or to enforce judgments against them, including in any action based on civil liabilities under the U.S. federal securities laws. Based on the opinion of Galicia y Robles, S.C., our Mexican counsel, there is doubt as to the enforceability against such persons in Mexico, whether in original actions or in actions to enforce judgments of U.S. courts, of liabilities based solely on the U.S. federal securities laws.
RISKS RELATING TO DEVELOPMENTS IN MEXICO AND OTHER COUNTRIES
Latin American economic, political and social conditions may adversely affect our business
Our financial performance may be significantly affected by general economic, political and social conditions in the countries where we operate, particularly Mexico and Brazil. Many countries in Latin America, including Mexico and Brazil, have suffered significant economic, political and social crises in the past, and these events may occur again in the future. Instability in the region has been caused by many different factors, including:
| significant governmental influence over local economies; |
| substantial fluctuations in economic growth; |
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| high levels of inflation; |
| changes in currency values; |
| exchange controls or restrictions on expatriation of earnings; |
| high domestic interest rates; |
| wage and price controls; |
| changes in governmental economic or tax policies; |
| imposition of trade barriers; |
| unexpected changes in regulation; and |
| overall political, social and economic instability. |
Adverse economic, political and social conditions in Latin America may inhibit demand for wireless services and create uncertainty regarding our operating environment, which could have a material adverse effect on our company.
Our business is especially affected by conditions in Mexico and Brazil. Mexico has experienced a prolonged period of slow growth since 2001, primarily as a result of the downturn in the U.S. economy. According to preliminary data, during the first six months of 2004, Mexicos gross domestic product, or GDP, grew by 3.4% in real terms. In 2003, GDP grew by 1.3%, and in 2002, GDP grew by 0.9%. Mexico has also experienced high levels of inflation and high domestic interest rates. The annual rate of inflation, as measured by changes in the National Consumer Price Index as published by the Banco de México, was 4.0% for 2003.
Brazil has in the past experienced extremely high rates of inflation, with annual rates of inflation during the last ten years reaching as high as 2,489% in 1993 and 929% in 1994, as measured by the Brazilian National Consumer Price Index. More recently, Brazils rates of inflation were 9.4% in 2001, 14.7% in 2002 and 10.4% in 2003. Inflation, governmental measures to combat inflation and public speculation about possible future actions have in the past had significant negative effects on the Brazilian economy.
Depreciation or fluctuation of the currencies in which we conduct operations relative to the U.S. dollar could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations
We are affected by fluctuations in the value of the currencies in which we conduct operations compared to the U.S. dollar, in which a substantial portion of our indebtedness is denominated. Changes in the value of the various currencies in which we conduct operations against the Mexican peso, which we use as our reporting currency in our financial statements, and against the U.S. dollar may result in exchange losses or gains on our net U.S. dollar-denominated indebtedness and accounts payable. In the first six months of 2004, changes in currency exchange rates led us to report a foreign exchange loss of Ps. 1,133 million, while in the first six months of 2003 we reported a foreign exchange gain of Ps. 1,443 million (an amount that is equal to 17.6% of our operating income in the first six months of 2003). In 2003, changes in currency exchange rates led us to report a foreign exchange gain of Ps. 1,355 million (an amount that is equal to 7.5% of our operating income in 2003), while in 2002 we reported a foreign exchange loss of Ps. 1,526 million. In addition, currency fluctuations between the Mexican peso and the currencies of our non-Mexican subsidiaries affect our results as reported in Mexican pesos. Currency fluctuations are expected to continue to affect our financial income and expense.
Major devaluation or depreciation of any such currencies may also result in disruption of the international foreign exchange markets and may limit our ability to transfer or to convert such currencies into U.S. dollars and other currencies for the purpose of making timely payments of interest and principal on our indebtedness. While the Mexican government does not currently restrict, and for many years has not restricted, the right or ability of Mexican or foreign persons or entities to convert pesos into U.S. dollars or to transfer other currencies out of Mexico, the government could institute restrictive exchange rate policies in the future.
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Additional Mexican taxes and contributions levied on services we offer and on the exploitation of frequencies could affect our results of operations
Taxes applicable to certain telecommunications services, as well as taxes and contributions on the exploitation of frequencies, have been enacted from time to time in Mexico. Taxes or contributions of this nature could adversely affect our business and our results of operations.
Currently in Mexico, concessionaires for the 800 megahertz (Band B) radio spectrum are required to pay the Mexican government an annual fee ranging from 5% to 10% of the gross revenues under such concessions whereas concessionaires for the 1900 megahertz (Band D) radio spectrum are not required to pay annual fees. Pursuant to amendments to the Federal Contributions Law (the Ley Federal de Derechos), as amended, enacted in 2003, owners of concessions in Mexico granted or renewed on or after January 1, 2003 are required to pay annual fees (derechos) for the use and exploitation of radio spectrum bands. The amount of annual fees payable could be significant and vary depending on the relevant region and radio spectrum band. These annual fees are payable in respect of all spectrum bands. The application of this fee to renewals of concessions granted prior to 2003 is the subject of debate in Mexico, as it could affect competitors differently and impact competition. Currently we do not expect to renew any of our current concessions until 2010, but, if permitted, we intend to participate in any auctions for the acquisition of additional spectrum in Mexico.
RISKS RELATING TO THE DEBT SECURITIES
There may not be a liquid trading market for the notes
If an active market for the debt securities does not develop, the price of the debt securities and the ability of a holder of debt securities to find a ready buyer will be adversely affected. As a result, we cannot assure you as to the liquidity of any trading market for the debt securities.
Creditors of our subsidiaries will have priority over the holders of the debt securities in claims to assets of our subsidiaries other than Telcel
The debt securities will be our obligations and will be guaranteed by Telcel. We conduct substantially all of our business and hold substantially all of our assets through our subsidiaries. The shares of all of our operating subsidiaries, including Telcel, are held directly or indirectly by our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sercotel, S.A. de C.V. Claims of creditors of our subsidiaries other than Telcel, including trade creditors and bank and other lenders, will have priority over the holders of the debt securities in claims to assets of our subsidiaries other than Telcel. At June 30, 2004, Sercotel had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 11,484 million (U.S.$1,006 million). In addition, at such date, our operating subsidiaries other than Telcel had indebtedness of Ps. 3,275 million (U.S.$287 million).
At June 30, 2004, Telcel had, on an unconsolidated basis, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations under indebtedness and guarantees of parent company and subsidiary indebtedness of approximately Ps. 45,487 million (U.S.$3,986 million), excluding subordinated debt owed to América Móvil or other of our subsidiaries. All such indebtedness of Telcel ranks equally with Telcels guarantees in respect of the debt securities. In addition, our ability to meet our obligations, including under the debt securities, will depend, in significant part, on our receipt of cash dividends, advances and other payments from our subsidiaries.
Judgments of Mexican courts enforcing our obligations under the debt securities would be payable only in Mexican pesos
If proceedings were brought in Mexico seeking to enforce in Mexico our obligations in respect of the debt securities or the guarantees, we would be required to discharge our obligations in Mexico in Mexican pesos. Under the Ley Monetaria de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos (the Mexican Monetary Law), an obligation denominated in a currency other than Mexican pesos that is payable in Mexico may be satisfied in Mexican pesos at the rate of exchange in effect on the date of payment. This rate is currently determined by Banco de México
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and published in the Official Gazette of Mexico. As a result, the amount paid by us in pesos to holders of the debt securities may not be readily convertible into the amount of U.S. dollars that we are obligated to pay under the indenture. In addition, our obligation to indemnify against exchange losses may be unenforceable in Mexico.
Our obligations under the debt securities would be converted in the event of bankruptcy
Under Mexicos Ley de Concursos Mercantiles (Law on Mercantile Reorganization), if we and/or Telcel were declared bankrupt or in concurso mercantil, our obligations under the debt securities and the guarantees:
| would be converted into pesos and then from pesos into inflation-adjusted units, or Unidades de Inversión (known as UDIs); |
| would be satisfied at the time claims of all our creditors are satisfied; |
| would be subject to the outcome of, and priorities recognized in, the relevant proceedings; |
| would cease to accrue interest; and |
| would not be adjusted to take into account any depreciation of the peso against the dollar occurring after such declaration. |
Telcels guarantees of the debt securities may not be enforceable in the event of a bankruptcy of Telcel
Telcels guarantees of the debt securities provide a basis for a direct claim against Telcel; however, it is possible that the guarantees may not be enforceable. While Mexican law does not prohibit the giving of guarantees and, as a result, does not prevent Telcels guarantees from being valid, binding and enforceable against Telcel, in the event Telcel is declared bankrupt or becomes subject to bankruptcy reorganization (concurso mercantil), the guarantees may be deemed to have been a fraudulent transfer and declared void, if it is determined that Telcel did not receive adequate consideration in exchange for such guarantees. If the guarantees become unenforceable, the debt securities would effectively be subordinated to all liabilities, including trade payables, of Telcel. At June 30, 2004, Telcel had, on an unconsolidated basis, total liabilities of Ps. 51,131 million (U.S.$4,481 million). This amount includes approximately Ps. 24,923 million (U.S.$2,184 million) principal amount of subordinated debt of Telcel owed to us or our other subsidiaries.
Mexican law may limit the ability of holders of debt securities to enforce their rights under the guarantees against Telcel
Creditors of Telcel, including a holder of the debt securities that are guaranteed by Telcel, may face limitations under Mexican law in attempting to enforce a claim against Telcels assets to the extent those assets are used in providing public service under Telcels concessions.
Developments in other countries may affect prices for the debt securities and adversely affect our ability to raise additional financing
The market value of securities of Mexican companies is, to varying degrees, affected by economic and market conditions in other countries. Although economic conditions in such countries may differ significantly from economic conditions in Mexico, investors reactions to developments in any of these other countries may have an adverse effect on the market value of securities of Mexican issuers. In October 1997, prices of both Mexican debt securities and Mexican equity securities dropped substantially, precipitated by a sharp drop in the values of Asian markets. Similarly, in the second half of 1998, prices of Mexican securities were adversely affected by the economic crises in Russia and in Brazil. More recently, prices of Mexican securities have been adversely affected by the economic crisis in Argentina. The market value of the debt securities could be adversely affected by events elsewhere, especially in emerging market countries.
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RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
The following table sets forth our consolidated ratios of earnings to fixed charges for each year in the five-year period ended December 31, 2003, and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004, in accordance with Mexican GAAP and U.S. GAAP. Earnings for this purpose consist of earnings before income taxes, plus fixed charges and depreciation of capitalized interest and minus interest capitalized during the period. Under Mexican GAAP, employee profit sharing is considered an income tax and earnings are calculated before the provision for employee profit sharing. Under U.S. GAAP, however, employee profit sharing is considered an operating expense and earnings are calculated after the provision for employee profit sharing. Fixed charges for this purpose consist of interest expense plus interest capitalized during the period. Fixed charges do not take into account gain or loss from monetary position or exchange gain or loss attributable to our indebtedness. Under Mexican GAAP, we do not capitalize interest, but we have capitalized interest in certain periods in connection with the reconciliation of our net income to U.S. GAAP.
Year ended December 31, |
Six months 2004 | |||||||||||
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
||||||||
Mexican GAAP |
33.7 | 5.5 | 6.6 | 5.9 | 6.0 | 6.3 | ||||||
U.S. GAAP |
31.6 | 4.1 | 6.3 | 6.7 | 6.3 | 5.9 |
Unless otherwise indicated in an accompanying prospectus supplement, we intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of the debt securities for general corporate purposes, including funding working capital and capital expenditures and repaying debt.
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DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES
The following section summarizes material terms that are common to all series of the debt securities and guarantees and to the indenture, unless otherwise indicated in this section or in the prospectus supplement relating to a particular series. Because this section is a summary, it does not describe every aspect of the debt securities, guarantees and the indenture. This summary is subject to and qualified in its entirety be reference to all the provisions of the indenture, including the definition of various terms used in the indenture. For example, we describe the meanings for only the more important terms that have been given special meanings in the indenture.
The indenture and its associated documents, including the debt securities we are offering, contain the full legal text of the matters summarized in this section. We have filed a copy of the indenture with the SEC as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. Upon request, we will provide you with a copy of the indenture. See Where You Can Find More Information for information concerning how to obtain a copy.
In this section, references to we, us and our are to América Móvil, S.A. de C.V. only and do not include our subsidiaries or affiliates. References to Telcel or the guarantor are to Radiomóvil Dipsa, S.A. de C.V., which is our subsidiary and the guarantor of the debt securities. References to debt securities include both the debt securities and the guarantees, except where otherwise indicated or as the context otherwise requires. References to holders mean those who have debt securities registered in their names on the books that we or the trustee maintain for this purpose, and not those who own beneficial interests in debt securities issued in book-entry form through The Depository Trust Company or in debt securities registered in street name. Owners of beneficial interests in debt securities should refer to Form of Debt Securities, Clearing and Settlement.
The debt securities will be issued in one or more series. The following discussion of provisions of the debt securities and the guarantees, including, among others, the discussion of provisions described under Optional Redemption, Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults, Modification and Waiver and Defeasance below, applies to individual series of debt securities.
General
Indenture
Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, the debt securities will be issued under an indenture, dated as of March 9, 2004. The indenture is an agreement among us, Telcel, as guarantor, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as trustee. The trustee has the following two main roles:
| First, the trustee can enforce your rights against us if we default in respect of the debt securities and Telcel defaults in respect of the guarantees. There are some limitations on the extent to which the trustee acts on your behalf, which we describe under Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults below. |
| Second, the trustee performs administrative duties for us, such as making interest payments and sending notices to holders of debt securities. |
Subsidiary Guarantor
Telcel will irrevocably and unconditionally guarantee the full and punctual payment of principal, premium, if any, interest, additional amounts and any other amounts that may become due and payable by us in respect of the debt securities. If we fail to pay any such amount, Telcel will immediately pay the amount that is due and required to be paid. (Section 1101)
Ranking of the Debt Securities and the Guarantees
We are a holding company and our principal assets are shares that we hold in our subsidiaries. The debt securities will not be secured by any of our assets or properties. As a result, by owning the debt securities, you
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will be one of our unsecured creditors. The debt securities will not be subordinated to any of our other unsecured debt obligations. In the event of a bankruptcy or liquidation proceeding against us, the debt securities would rank equally in right of payment with all our other unsecured and unsubordinated debt.
Telcels guarantees of the debt securities will not be secured by any of its assets or properties. As a result, if Telcel is required to pay under the guarantees, holders of the debt securities would be unsecured creditors of Telcel. The guarantees will not be subordinated to any of Telcels other unsecured debt obligations. In the event of a bankruptcy or liquidation proceeding against Telcel, the guarantees would rank equally in right of payment with all of Telcels other unsecured and unsubordinated debt.
A creditor of Telcel, including a holder of the debt securities, which are guaranteed by Telcel, may face limitations under Mexican law in attempting to enforce a claim against Telcels assets to the extent those assets are used in providing public service under Telcels concessions.
Stated Maturity and Maturity
The day on which the principal amount of the debt securities is scheduled to become due is called the stated maturity of the principal. The principal may become due before the stated maturity by reason of redemption or acceleration after a default. The day on which the principal actually becomes due, whether at the stated maturity or earlier, is called the maturity of the principal.
We also use the terms stated maturity and maturity to refer to the dates when interest payments become due. For example, we may refer to a regular interest payment date when an installment of interest is scheduled to become due as the stated maturity of that installment. When we refer to the stated maturity or the maturity of the debt securities without specifying a particular payment, we mean the stated maturity or maturity, as the case may be, of the principal.
Form and Denominations
The debt securities will be issued only in registered form without coupons and in denominations of U.S.$100,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof, unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement. (Section 302)
Except in limited circumstances, the debt securities will be issued in the form of global debt securities. See Form of Debt Securities, Clearing and Settlement.
Payment of Additional Amounts
We are required by Mexican law to deduct Mexican withholding taxes from payments of interest to investors who are not residents of Mexico for tax purposes as described under TaxationMexican Tax Considerations.
We will pay to holders of the debt securities all additional amounts that may be necessary so that every net payment of interest or principal to the holder will not be less than the amount provided for in the debt securities of that series. By net payment, we mean the amount that we or our paying agent will pay the holder after deducting or withholding an amount for or on account of any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or other governmental charges imposed with respect to that payment by a Mexican taxing authority.
Our obligation to pay additional amounts is, however, subject to several important exceptions. We will not pay additional amounts to any holder for or on account of any of the following:
| any taxes, duties, assessments or other governmental charges imposed solely because at any time there is or was a connection between the holder and Mexico (other than the mere receipt of a payment or the ownership or holding of a debt security); |
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| any estate, inheritance, gift or other similar tax, assessment or other governmental charge imposed with respect to the debt securities; |
| any taxes, duties, assessments or other governmental charges imposed solely because the holder or any other person fails to comply with any certification, identification or other reporting requirement concerning the nationality, residence, identity or connection with Mexico of the holder or any beneficial owner of the debt security if compliance is required by law, regulation or by an applicable income tax treaty to which Mexico is a party, as a precondition to exemption from, or reduction in the rate of, the tax, assessment or other governmental charge and we have given the holders at least 30 days notice prior to the first payment date with respect to which such certification, identification or reporting requirement is required to the effect that holders will be required to provide such information and identification; |
| any tax, duty, assessment or other governmental charge payable otherwise than by deduction or withholding from payments on the debt securities; |
| any taxes, duties, assessments or other governmental charges with respect to a debt security presented for payment more than 15 days after the date on which the payment became due and payable or the date on which payment thereof is duly provided for and notice thereof given to holders, whichever occurs later, except to the extent that the holders of such debt security would have been entitled to such additional amounts on presenting such debt security for payment on any date during such 15-day period; and |
| any payment on a debt security to a holder that is a fiduciary or partnership or a person other than the sole beneficial owner of any such payment, to the extent that a beneficiary or settlor with respect to such fiduciary, a member of such a partnership or the beneficial owner of the payment would not have been entitled to the additional amounts had the beneficiary, settlor, member or beneficial owner been the holder of such debt security. (Section 1009) |
The limitations on our obligations to pay additional amounts described in the third bullet point above will not apply if the provision of information, documentation or other evidence described in the applicable bullet point would be materially more onerous, in form, in procedure or in the substance of information disclosed, to a holder or beneficial owner of a debt security, taking into account any relevant differences between U.S. and Mexican law, regulation or administrative practice, than comparable information or other reporting requirements imposed under U.S. tax law (including the United States/Mexico Income Tax Treaty), regulations (including proposed regulations) and administrative practice. (Section 1009)
Applicable Mexican regulations currently allow us to withhold at a reduced rate, provided that we comply with certain information reporting requirements. Accordingly, the limitations on our obligations to pay additional amounts described in the third bullet point above also will not apply unless (a) the provision of the information, documentation or other evidence described in the applicable bullet point is expressly required by the applicable Mexican regulations, (b) we cannot obtain the information, documentation or other evidence necessary to comply with the applicable Mexican regulations on our own through reasonable diligence, and (c) we otherwise would meet the requirements for application of the applicable Mexican regulations.
In addition, the limitation described in the third bullet point above does not require that any person, including any non-Mexican pension fund, retirement fund or financial institution, register with the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit to establish eligibility for an exemption from, or a reduction of, Mexican withholding tax.
We will remit the full amount of any Mexican taxes withheld to the applicable Mexican taxing authorities in accordance with applicable law. We will also provide the trustee with documentation satisfactory to the trustee evidencing the payment of Mexican taxes in respect of which we have paid any additional amount. We will provide copies of such documentation to the holders of the debt securities or the relevant paying agent upon request. (Section 1009(a))
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Any reference in this prospectus, the indenture, any applicable supplemental indenture or the debt securities or guarantees to principal, premium, if any, interest or any other amount payable in respect of the debt securities by us will be deemed also to refer to any additional amount that may be payable with respect to that amount under the obligations referred to in this subsection. (Section 1009(e))
In the event that additional amounts actually paid with respect to the debt securities pursuant to the preceding paragraphs are based on rates of deduction or withholding of withholding taxes in excess of the appropriate rate applicable to the holder of such debt securities, and as a result thereof such holder is entitled to make a claim for a refund or credit of such excess from the authority imposing such withholding tax, then such holder shall, by accepting such debt securities, be deemed to have assigned and transferred all right, title and interest to any such claim for a refund or credit of such excess to us. However, by making such assignment, the holder makes no representation or warranty that we will be entitled to receive such claim for a refund or credit and incurs no other obligation with respect thereto. (Section 1009(d))
Optional Redemption
We will not be permitted to redeem the debt securities before their stated maturity, except as set forth below. The debt securities will not be entitled to the benefit of any sinking fundmeaning that we will not deposit money on a regular basis into any separate account to repay your debt securities. In addition, you will not be entitled to require us to repurchase your debt securities from you before the stated maturity. (Section 1201(a))
Optional Redemption
If so indicated in the applicable prospectus supplement, we will be entitled, at our option, to redeem some or all of the outstanding debt securities of any series from time to time at the redemption price set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. If the debt securities of any series are redeemable only on or after a specified date or upon the satisfaction of additional conditions, the prospectus supplement will specify the date or describe the conditions. In each case we will also pay you accrued and unpaid interest, if any, through the redemption date. Debt securities will stop bearing interest on the redemption date, even if you do not collect your money. (Sections 301, 1201 and 1204)
Redemption for Taxation Reasons
If, as a result of any amendment to, or change in, the laws (or any rules or regulations thereunder) of Mexico or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof or therein affecting taxation, or any amendment to or change in an official interpretation or application of such laws, rules or regulations, which amendment to or change of such laws, rules or regulations becomes effective on or after the date on which a series of debt securities is issued, we would be obligated, after taking such measures as we may consider reasonable to avoid this requirement, to pay additional amounts in excess of those attributable to a Mexican withholding tax rate of 10% with respect to any series of debt securities (see Additional Amounts and TaxationMexican Tax Considerations), then, at our option, all, but not less than all, of the debt securities of such series may be redeemed at any time on giving not less than 30 nor more than 60 days notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest and any additional amounts due thereon up to but not including the date of redemption; provided, however, that (1) no notice of redemption for tax reasons may be given earlier than 90 days prior to the earliest date on which we would be obligated to pay these additional amounts if a payment on the debt securities of such series were then due and (2) at the time such notice of redemption is given such obligation to pay such additional amounts remains in effect. (Section 1201(c))
Prior to the publication of any notice of redemption for taxation reasons, we will deliver to the trustee:
| a certificate signed by one of our duly authorized representatives stating that we are entitled to effect the redemption and setting forth a statement of facts showing that the conditions precedent to our right of redemption for taxation reasons have occurred; and |
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| an opinion of Mexican legal counsel (which may be our counsel) of recognized standing to the effect that we have or will become obligated to pay such additional amounts as a result of such change or amendment. (Section 1201(d)) |
This notice, after it is delivered by us to the trustee, will be irrevocable. (Section 1202)
Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets
We may not consolidate with or merge into any other person or, directly or indirectly, transfer, convey, sell, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets and properties and may not permit any person to consolidate with or merge into us, unless all of the following conditions are met:
| if we are not the successor person in the transaction, the successor is organized and validly existing under the laws of Mexico or the United States or any political subdivision thereof and expressly assumes our obligations under the debt securities or the indenture; |
| immediately after the transaction, no default under the debt securities has occurred and is continuing. For this purpose, default under the debt securities means an event of default or an event that would be an event of default with respect to any series of debt securities if the requirements for giving us default notice and for our default having to continue for a specific period of time were disregarded. See Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults; and |
| we have delivered to the trustee an officers certificate and opinion of counsel, each stating, among other things, that the transaction complies with the indenture. (Section 801) |
If the conditions described above are satisfied, we will not have to obtain the approval of the holders in order to merge or consolidate or to sell or otherwise dispose of our properties and assets substantially as an entirety. In addition, these conditions will apply only if we wish to merge into or consolidate with another person or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets and properties. We will not need to satisfy these conditions if we enter into other types of transactions, including any transaction in which we acquire the stock or assets of another person, any transaction that involves a change of control of our company, but in which we do not merge or consolidate, and any transaction in which we sell or otherwise dispose of less than substantially all our assets.
Telcel may not consolidate with or merge into any other person or, directly or indirectly, transfer, convey, sell, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets and properties and may not permit any person to consolidate with or merge into it, unless substantially the same conditions set forth above are satisfied with respect to Telcel. (Section 801)
Covenants
The following covenants will apply to us and certain of our subsidiaries for so long as any debt security remains outstanding. These covenants restrict our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to enter into certain transactions. However, these covenants do not limit our ability to incur indebtedness or require us to comply with financial ratios or to maintain specified levels of net worth or liquidity.
Limitation on Liens
We may not, and we may not allow any of our restricted subsidiaries to, create, incur, issue or assume any liens on our restricted property to secure debt where the debt secured by such liens, plus the aggregate amount of our attributable debt and that of our restricted subsidiaries in respect of sale and leaseback transactions, would exceed an amount equal to an aggregate of 15% of our Consolidated Net Tangible Assets unless we secure the debt securities equally with, or prior to, the debt secured by such liens. This restriction will not, however, apply to the following:
| liens on restricted property acquired and existing on the date the property was acquired or arising after such acquisition pursuant to contractual commitments entered into prior to such acquisition; |
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| liens on any restricted property securing debt incurred or assumed for the purpose of financing its purchase price or the cost of its construction, improvement or repair, provided that such lien attaches to the restricted property within 12 months of its acquisition or the completion of its construction, improvement or repair and does not attach to any other restricted property; |
| liens existing on any restricted property of any restricted subsidiary prior to the time that the restricted subsidiary became a subsidiary of ours or liens arising after that time under contractual commitments entered into prior to and not in contemplation of that event; |
| liens on any restricted property securing debt owed by a subsidiary of ours to us or to another of our subsidiaries; and |
| liens arising out of the refinancing, extension, renewal or refunding of any debt described above, provided that the aggregate principal amount of such debt is not increased and such lien does not extend to any additional restricted property. (Section 1006) |
Consolidated Net Tangible Assets means total consolidated assets less (1) all current liabilities, (2) all goodwill, (3) all trade names, trademarks, patents and other intellectual property assets and (4) all licenses, each as set forth on our most recent consolidated balance sheet and computed in accordance with Mexican GAAP. (Section 101)
Restricted property means (1) any exchange and transmission equipment, switches, cellular base stations, microcells, local links, repeaters and related facilities, whether owned as of the date of the indenture or acquired after that date, used in connection with the provision of telecommunications services in Mexico, including any land, buildings, structures and other equipment or fixtures that constitute any such facility, owned by us or our restricted subsidiaries and (2) any share of capital stock of any restricted subsidiary.
Restricted subsidiaries means our subsidiaries that own restricted property. (Section 101)
Limitation on Sales and Leasebacks
We may not, and we may not allow any of our restricted subsidiaries to, enter into any sale and leaseback transaction without effectively providing that the debt securities will be secured equally and ratably with or prior to the sale and leaseback transaction, unless:
| the aggregate principal amount of all debt then outstanding that is secured by any lien on any restricted property that does not ratably secure the debt securities (excluding any secured indebtedness permitted under Limitation on Liens above) plus the aggregate amount of our attributable debt and the attributable debt of our restricted subsidiaries in respect of sale and leaseback transactions then outstanding (other than any sale and leaseback transaction permitted under the following bullet point) would not exceed an amount equal to 15% of our Consolidated Net Tangible Assets; or |
| we or one of our restricted subsidiaries, within 12 months of the sale and leaseback transaction, retire an amount of our secured debt which is not subordinate to the debt securities in an amount equal to the greater of (1) the net proceeds of the sale or transfer of the property or other assets that are the subject of the sale and leaseback transaction and (2) the fair market value of the restricted property leased. (Section 1008) |
Notwithstanding the foregoing, we and/or our restricted subsidiaries may enter into sale and leaseback transactions during 2004 in respect of which attributable debt is not in excess of U.S.$300 million in the aggregate, and additional sale and leaseback transactions that solely refinance, extend, renew or refund such sale and leaseback transactions, and (a) the restriction described in the preceding paragraph shall not apply to such sale and leaseback transactions and (b) such transactions shall be excluded in determining the aggregate amount of our attributable debt and the attributable debt of our restricted subsidiaries for purposes of the preceding paragraph and also for purposes of the covenant described under Limitation on Liens above. (Section 1008)
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Sale and leaseback transaction means an arrangement between us or one of our restricted subsidiaries and a bank, insurance company or other lender or investor where we or our restricted subsidiary leases a restricted property for an initial term of three years or more that was or will be sold by us or our restricted subsidiary to that lender or investor for a sale price of U.S.$1 million or its equivalent or more. (Section 101)
Attributable debt means, with respect to any sale and leaseback transaction, the lesser of (1) the fair market value of the asset subject to the sale and leaseback transaction and (2) the present value, discounted at a rate set forth in the indenture, of the obligations of the lessee for net rental payments (excluding amounts on account of maintenance and repairs, insurance, taxes, assessments and similar charges and contingent rents) during the term of the lease. (Section 101)
Limitation on Sale of Capital Stock of Telcel
We may not, and we may not allow any of our subsidiaries to, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any shares of capital stock of Telcel if following such sale, transfer or disposition we would own, directly or indirectly, less than (1) 50% of the voting power of all of the shares of capital stock of Telcel and (2) 50% of all of the shares of capital stock of Telcel. (Section 1007)
Provision of Information
We will furnish the trustee with copies of our annual report and the information, documents and other reports that we are required to file with the SEC pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including our annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K. In addition, we will make the same information, documents and other reports available, at our expense, to holders who so request in writing. (Section 1005) In the event that, in the future, we are not required to file such information, documents or other reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act, we will furnish on a reasonably prompt basis to the trustee and holders who so request in writing, substantially the same financial and other information that we would be required to include and file in an annual report on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K. (Section 1005)
If any of our officers becomes aware that a default or event of default or an event that with notice or the lapse of time would be an event of default has occurred and is continuing, as the case may be, we will also file a certificate with the trustee describing the details thereof and the action we are taking or propose to take. (Section 1004)
Defaults, Remedies and Waiver of Defaults
You will have special rights if an event of default with respect to the series of debt securities you hold occurs and is not cured, as described below.
Events of Default
Each of the following will be an event of default with respect to any series of debt securities:
| we or Telcel fail to pay the principal of any debt securities of that series on its due date; |
| we or Telcel fail to pay interest on any debt securities of that series within 30 days after its due date; |
| we or Telcel remain in breach of any covenant in the indenture for the benefit of holders of that series of debt securities, for 60 days after we receive a notice of default (sent by the trustee or the holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the series of debt securities) stating that we are in breach; |
| we or Telcel file for bankruptcy, or other events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or similar proceedings occur relating to us or Telcel; |
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| we or Telcel experience a default or event of default under any instrument relating to debt having an aggregate principal amount exceeding U.S.$25 million (or its equivalent in other currencies) that constitutes a failure to pay principal or interest when due or results in the acceleration of the debt prior to its maturity; |
| a final judgment is rendered against us or Telcel in an aggregate amount in excess of U.S.$25 million (or its equivalent in other currencies) that is not discharged or bonded in full within 30 days; or |
| the guarantee of the debt securities of that series is held in a final judgment to be unenforceable or invalid or ceases for any reason to be in full force and effect, or Telcel, or any person acting on behalf of Telcel, denies or disaffirms its obligations under the guarantees of the debt securities. (Section 501) |
Remedies Upon Event of Default
If an event of default with respect to any series of debt securities occurs and is not cured or waived, the trustee, at the written request of holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of that series of debt securities, may declare the entire principal amount of all the debt securities of that series to be due and payable immediately, and upon any such declaration the principal, any accrued interest and any additional amounts shall become due and payable. If, however, an event of default occurs because of a bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization relating to us or Telcel, the entire principal amount of all the debt securities and any accrued interest and any additional amounts will be automatically accelerated, without any action by the trustee or any holder and any principal, interest or additional amounts will become immediately due and payable. (Section 502)
Each of the situations described above is called an acceleration of the maturity of the debt securities. If the maturity of any series of the debt securities is accelerated and a judgment for payment has not yet been obtained, the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of that series of debt securities may cancel the acceleration for all the debt securities of that series, provided that all amounts then due (other than amounts due solely because of such acceleration) have been paid and all other defaults with respect to that series of debt securities have been cured or waived. (Section 502)
If any event of default occurs, the trustee will have special duties. In that situation, the trustee will be obligated to use those of its rights and powers under the indenture, and to use the same degree of care and skill in doing so, that a prudent person would use under the circumstances in conducting his or her own affairs.
Except as described in the prior paragraph, the trustee is not required to take any action under the indenture at the request of any holders unless the holders offer the trustee reasonable protection, known as an indemnity, from expenses and liability. If the trustee receives an indemnity that is reasonably satisfactory to it, the holders of a majority in principal amount of a series of debt securities may direct the time, method and place of conducting any lawsuit or other formal legal action seeking any remedy available to the trustee. These majority holders may also direct the trustee in performing any other action under the indenture with respect to that series of debt securities. (Section 512 and Section 603(e))
Before you bypass the trustee and bring your own lawsuit or other formal legal action or take other steps to enforce your rights or protect your interests relating to the debt securities, the following must occur:
| you must give the trustee written notice that an event of default has occurred and the event of default has not been cured or waived; |
| the holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of a particular series of debt securities must make a written request that the trustee take action with respect to that series because of the default and they or other holders must offer to the trustee indemnity reasonably satisfactory to the trustee against the cost and other liabilities of taking that action; |
| the trustee must not have taken action for 60 days after the above steps have been taken; and |
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| during those 60 days, the holders of a majority in principal amount of a series of debt securities must not have given the trustee for such series directions that are inconsistent with the written request of the holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of that series of debt securities. (Section 507) |
You will be entitled, however, at any time to bring a lawsuit for the payment of money due on your debt security on or after its due date. (Section 508)
Book-entry and other indirect holders should consult their bank or brokers for information on how to give notice or direction to or make a request of the trustee and how to declare or cancel an acceleration of the maturity.
Waiver of Default
The holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the debt securities of any series may waive a past default for all the debt securities of that series. If this happens, the default will be treated as if it had been cured. No one can waive a payment default on any debt security, however, without the approval of the particular holder of that debt security. (Section 513)
Modification and Waiver
There are three types of changes we can make to the indenture, the outstanding debt securities under the indenture and guarantees thereof.
Changes Requiring Each Holders Approval
The following changes cannot be made without the approval of each holder of an outstanding debt security affected by the change:
| a change in the stated maturity of any principal or interest payment on a debt security; |
| a reduction in the principal amount, the interest rate or the redemption price for a debt security; |
| a change in the obligation to pay additional amounts; |
| a change in the currency of any payment on a debt security other than as permitted by the debt security; |
| a change in the place of any payment on a debt security; |
| an impairment of the holders right to sue for payment of any amount due on its debt security; |
| a change in the terms and conditions of the obligations of the guarantor under the guarantees to make due and punctual payment of the principal, premium, if any, or interest in respect of the outstanding debt securities under the indenture; |
| a reduction in the percentage in principal amount of the debt securities needed to change the indenture, the outstanding debt securities under the indenture or guarantees thereof; and |
| a reduction in the percentage in principal amount of the debt securities needed to waive our compliance with the indenture or to waive defaults. (Section 902) |
Changes Not Requiring Approval
Some changes will not require the approval of holders of debt securities. These changes are limited to specific kinds of changes, like the addition of covenants, events of default or security, and other clarifications and changes that would not adversely affect the holders of outstanding debt securities under the indenture in any material respect. (Section 901)
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Changes Requiring Majority Approval
Any other change to the indenture, the debt securities or the guarantees will be required to be approved by the holders of a majority in principal amount of each series of debt securities affected by the change or waiver. The required approval must be given by written consent. (Section 902)
The same majority approval will be required for us to obtain a waiver of any of our covenants in the indenture. Our covenants include the promises we make about merging and creating liens on our interests, which we describe above under Mergers and Similar Transactions and Covenants. If the holders approve a waiver of a covenant, we will not have to comply with it. The holders, however, cannot approve a waiver of any provision in a particular debt security or guarantee, or the indenture, as it affects that debt security, that we cannot change without the approval of the holder of that debt security as described under in Changes Requiring Each Holders Approval above, unless that holder approves the waiver. (Section 1011)
Book-entry and other indirect holders should consult their banks or brokers for information on how approval may be granted or denied if we seek to change the indenture or the debt securities or request a waiver.
Defeasance
We may, at our option, elect to terminate (1) all of our or Telcels obligations with respect to a series of debt securities and the related guarantees (legal defeasance), except for certain obligations, including those regarding any trust established for defeasance and obligations relating to the transfer and exchange of the debt securities of that series, the replacement of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen debt securities of that series and the maintenance of agencies with respect to the debt securities of that series (Sections 1301 and 1302) or (2) our or Telcels obligations under the covenants in the indenture, so that any failure to comply with such obligations will not constitute an event of default (covenant defeasance) in respect of debt securities of that series (Sections 1301 and 1303). In order to exercise either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance, we must irrevocably deposit with the trustee money or U.S. government obligations, or any combination thereof, in such amounts as will be sufficient to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest (including additional amounts) in respect of the debt securities of that series then outstanding on the maturity date of the debt securities of that series, and comply with certain other conditions, including, without limitation, the delivery of opinions of counsel as to specified tax and other matters. (Sections 1301, 1304 and 1305)
If we elect either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance with respect to any debt securities of a series, we must so elect it with respect to all of the debt securities of that series. (Section 1301)
Special Rules for Actions by Holders
When holders take any action under the indenture, such as giving a notice of default, declaring an acceleration, approving any change or waiver or giving the trustee an instruction, we will apply the following rules.
Only Outstanding Debt Securities are Eligible for Action by Holders
Only holders of outstanding debt securities will be eligible to vote or participate in any action by holders. In addition, we will count only outstanding debt securities in determining whether the various percentage requirements for voting or taking action have been met. For these purposes, a debt security will not be outstanding if it has been surrendered for cancellation or if we have deposited or set aside, in trust for its holder, money for its payment or redemption. (Section 101)
Determining Record Dates for Action by Holders
We will generally be entitled to set any day as a record date for the purpose of determining the holders that are entitled to take action under the indenture. In some limited circumstances, only the trustee will be entitled to
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set a record date for action by holders. If we or the trustee set a record date for an approval or other action to be taken by holders, that vote or action may be taken only by persons or entities who are holders on the record date and must be taken during the period that we specify for this purpose, or that the trustee specifies if it sets the record date. We or the trustee, as applicable, may shorten or lengthen this period from time to time. This period, however, may not extend beyond the 180th day after the record date for the action. In addition, record dates for any global debt securities may be set in accordance with procedures established by the depositary from time to time. (Section 104)
Payment Provisions
Payments on the Debt Securities
For interest due on a debt security on an interest payment date, we will pay the interest to the holder in whose name the debt security is registered at the close of business on the regular record date relating to the interest payment date. For interest due at maturity but on a day that is not an interest payment date, we will pay the interest to the person or entity entitled to receive the principal of the debt security. For principal due on a debt security at maturity, we will pay the amount to the holder of the debt security against surrender of the debt security at the proper place of payment. (Section 306)
The regular record date relating to the interest payment dates for any debt security will be set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement.
Payments on Global Debt Securities. For debt securities issued in global form, we will make payments on the debt securities in accordance with the applicable policies of the depositary as in effect from time to time. (Section 1002) Under those policies, we will make payments directly to the depositary, or its nominee, and not to any indirect holders who own beneficial interests in a global debt security. An indirect holders right to receive those payments will be governed by the rules and practices of the depositary and its participants.
Payments on Certificated Debt Securities. For debt securities issued in certificated form, we will pay interest that is due on an interest payment date by check mailed on the interest payment date to the holder at the holders address shown on the trustees records as of the close of business on the regular record date, and we will make all other payments by check to the paying agent described below, against surrender of the debt security. All payments by check may be made in next-day funds, that is, funds that become available on the day after the check is cashed. If we issue debt securities in certificated form, holders of debt securities in certificated form will be able to receive payments of principal and interest on their debt securities at the office of our paying agent maintained in New York City. (Section 202 and Section 306)
Payment When Offices Are Closed
If any payment is due on a debt security on a day that is not a business day, we will make the payment on the day that is the next business day. Payments postponed to the next business day in this situation will be treated under the indenture as if they were made on the original due date. Postponement of this kind will not result in a default under the debt securities, guarantees or the indenture, and no interest will accrue on the postponed amount from the original due date to the next day that is a business day.
Business day means each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday that is not a day on which banking institutions in New York City or Mexico City generally are authorized or obligated by law, regulation or executive order to close and a day on which banks and financial institutions in Mexico are open for business with the general public.
Paying Agents
If we issue debt securities in certificated form, we may appoint one or more financial institutions to act as our paying agents, at whose designated offices the debt securities may be surrendered for payment at their
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maturity. We may add, replace or terminate paying agents from time to time, provided that if any debt securities are issued in certificated form, so long as such debt securities are outstanding, we will maintain a paying agent in New York City. We may also choose to act as our own paying agent. Initially, we have appointed the trustee, at its corporate trust office in New York City, as a paying agent. We must notify you of changes in the paying agents as described under Notices below.
Unclaimed Payments
All money paid by us to a paying agent that remains unclaimed at the end of two years after the amount is due to a holder will be repaid to us. After that two-year period, the holder may look only to us for payment and not to the trustee, any other paying agent or anyone else. (Section 1003)
Transfer Agents
We may appoint one or more transfer agents, at whose designated offices any debt securities in certificated form may be transferred or exchanged and also surrendered before payment is made at maturity. Initially, we have appointed the trustee, at its corporate office in New York City as transfer agent. We may also choose to act as our own transfer agent. We must notify you of changes in the transfer agent as described under Notices. If we issue debt securities in certificated form, holders of debt securities in certificated form will be able to transfer their debt securities, in whole or in part, by surrendering the debt securities, with a duly completed form of transfer, for registration of transfer at the office of our transfer agent in New York City. We will not charge any fee for the registration or transfer or exchange, except that we may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any applicable tax or other governmental charge payable in connection with the transfer. (Section 304 and Section 1002)
Notices
As long as we issue debt securities in global form, notices to be given to holders will be given to DTC, in accordance with its applicable policies as in effect from time to time. If we issue debt securities in certificated form, notices to be given to holders will be sent by mail to the respective addresses of the holders as they appear in the trustees records, and will be deemed given when mailed. (Section 106)
Neither the failure to give any notice to a particular holder, nor any defect in a notice given to a particular holder, will affect the sufficiency of any notice given to another holder. (Section 106)
Governing Law
The indenture, the debt securities and the guarantees will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York, United States of America. (Section 113)
Submission to Jurisdiction
In connection with any legal action or proceeding arising out of or relating to the debt securities, the guarantees or the indenture (subject to the exceptions described below), we and the guarantor have each:
| submitted to the jurisdiction of any New York state or U.S. federal court sitting in New York City, and any appellate court thereof; |
| agreed that all claims in respect of such legal action or proceeding may be heard and determined in such New York state or U.S. federal court and waived, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding and any right of jurisdiction in such action or proceeding on account of the place of residence or domicile of we or the guarantor; and |
| appointed CT Corporation System, with an office at 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10011, United States of America as process agent. |
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The process agent will receive, on behalf of each of us and the guarantor, service of copies of the summons and complaint and any other process which may be served in any such legal action or proceeding brought in such New York state or U.S. federal court sitting in New York City. Service may be made by mailing or delivering a copy of such process to us or the guarantor, as the case may be, at the address specified above for the process agent. (Section 115)
A final judgment in any of the above legal actions or proceedings will be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions, in each case, to the extent permitted under the applicable laws of such jurisdiction.
In addition to the foregoing, the holders may serve legal process in any other manner permitted by applicable law. The above provisions do not limit the right of any holder to bring any action or proceeding against either us or the guarantor or our or its properties in other courts where jurisdiction is independently established. (Section 115)
To the extent that either we or the guarantor has or hereafter may acquire or have attributed to us or it any sovereign or other immunity under any law, each of us and the guarantor has agreed to waive, to the fullest extent permitted by law, such immunity from jurisdiction or to service of process in respect of any legal suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to the indenture or the debt securities. (Section 115)
Currency Indemnity
Our obligations and the obligations of the guarantor under the debt securities and the guarantees, respectively, will be discharged only to the extent that the relevant holder is able to purchase U.S. dollars with any other currency paid to that holder in accordance with any judgment or otherwise. If the holder cannot purchase U.S. dollars in the amount originally to be paid, we and the guarantor have agreed to pay the difference. The holder, however, agrees that, if the amount of U.S. dollars purchased exceeds the amount originally to be paid to such holder, the holder will reimburse the excess to us or the guarantor, as the case may be. The holder will not be obligated to make this reimbursement if we or the guarantor are in default of our or its obligations under the debt securities or the guarantees. (Section 1010)
Our Relationship with the Trustee
JPMorgan Chase Bank is initially serving as the trustee for the debt securities. JPMorgan Chase Bank may have other business relationships with us from time to time. Affiliates of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. owned approximately 7.9% of our limited-voting L Shares outstanding as of April 30, 2004.
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FORM OF DEBT SECURITIES, CLEARING AND SETTLEMENT
Global Debt Securities
We will issue the debt securities in global form, without interest coupons. Debt securities issued in global form will be represented, at least initially, by one or more global debt securities. Upon issuance, global debt securities will be deposited with the trustee as custodian for The Depository Trust Company, known as DTC, and registered in the name of Cede & Co., as nominee of DTC. Ownership of beneficial interests in each global debt security will be limited to persons who have accounts with DTC, whom we refer to as DTC participants, or persons who hold interests through DTC participants. We expect that, under procedures established by DTC, ownership of beneficial interests in each global debt security will be shown on, and transfer of ownership of those interests will be effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to interests of DTC participants) and the records of DTC participants (with respect to other owners of beneficial interests in the global debt securities).
Beneficial interests in the global debt securities may be credited within DTC to Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. and Clearstream, Luxembourg Banking, société anonyme on behalf of the owners of such interests. We refer to Euroclear S.A./N.V. and Clearstream, Luxembourg Banking, société anonyme as Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, respectively.
Investors may hold their interests in the global debt securities directly through DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, if they are participants in those systems, or indirectly through organizations that are participants in those systems.
Beneficial interests in the global debt securities may not be exchanged for debt securities in physical, certificated form except in the limited circumstances described below.
Book-Entry Procedures for the Global Debt Securities
Interests in the global debt securities will be subject to the operations and procedures of DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg. We provide the following summaries of those operations and procedures solely for the convenience of investors. The operations and procedures of each settlement system are controlled by that settlement system and may be changed at any time. We are not responsible for those operations or procedures.
DTC has advised that it is:
| a limited purpose trust company organized under the New York State Banking Law; |
| a banking organization within the meaning of the New York State Banking Law; |
| a member of the U.S. Federal Reserve System; |
| a clearing corporation within the meaning of the New York Uniform Commercial Code; and |
| a clearing agency registered under Section 17A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
DTC was created to hold securities for its participants and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions between its participants through electronic book-entry changes to the accounts of its participants. DTCs participants include securities brokers and dealers; banks and trust companies; clearing corporations; and certain other organizations. Indirect access to DTCs system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies; these indirect participants clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC participant, either directly or indirectly. Investors who are not DTC participants may beneficially own securities held by or on behalf of DTC only through DTC participants or indirect participants in DTC.
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So long as DTC or its nominee is the registered owner of a global debt security, DTC or its nominee will be considered the sole owner or holder of the debt securities represented by that global debt security for all purposes under the indenture. Except as provided below, owners of beneficial interests in a global debt security:
| will not be entitled to have debt securities represented by the global debt security registered in their names; |
| will not receive or be entitled to receive physical, certificated debt securities; and |
| will not be considered the registered owners or holders of the debt securities under the indenture for any purpose, including with respect to the giving of any direction, instruction or approval to the trustee under the indenture. |
As a result, each investor who owns a beneficial interest in a global debt security must rely on the procedures of DTC to exercise any rights of a holder of debt securities under the indenture (and, if the investor is not a participant or an indirect participant in DTC, on the procedures of the DTC participant through which the investor owns its interest).
Payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest with respect to the debt securities represented by a global debt security will be made by the trustee to DTCs nominee as the registered holder of the global debt security. Neither we nor the trustee will have any responsibility or liability for the payment of amounts to owners of beneficial interests in a global debt security, for any aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of those interests by DTC, or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records of DTC relating to those interests.
Payments by participants and indirect participants in DTC to the owners of beneficial interests in a global debt security will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices and will be the responsibility of those participants or indirect participants and not of DTC, its nominee or us.
Transfers between participants in DTC will be effected under DTCs procedures and will be settled in same-day funds. Transfers between participants in Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg will be effected in the ordinary way under the rules and operating procedures of those systems.
Cross-market transfers between DTC participants, on the one hand, and Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participants, on the other hand, will be effected within DTC through the DTC participants that are acting as depositaries for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg. To deliver or receive an interest in a global debt security held in a Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg account, an investor must send transfer instructions to Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, under the rules and procedures of that system and within the established deadlines of that system. If the transaction meets its settlement requirements, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, will send instructions to its DTC depositary to take action to effect final settlement by delivering or receiving interests in the relevant global debt securities in DTC, and making or receiving payment under normal procedures for same-day funds settlement applicable to DTC. Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg participants may not deliver instructions directly to the DTC depositaries that are acting for Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg.
Because of time zone differences, the securities account of a Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participant that purchases an interest in a global debt security from a DTC participant will be credited on the business day for Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg immediately following the DTC settlement date. Cash received in Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg from the sale of an interest in a global debt security to a DTC participant will be received with value on the DTC settlement date but will be available in the relevant Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg cash account as of the business day for Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg following the DTC settlement date.
DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg have agreed to the above procedures to facilitate transfers of interests in the global debt securities among participants in those settlement systems. However, the settlement
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systems are not obligated to perform these procedures and may discontinue or change these procedures at any time. Neither we nor the trustee have any responsibility for the performance by DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg or their participants or indirect participants of their obligations under the rules and procedures governing their operations.
Certificated Debt Securities
Beneficial interests in the global debt securities may not be exchanged for debt securities in physical, certificated form unless:
| DTC notifies us at any time that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for the global debt securities and a successor depositary is not appointed within 90 days; |
| DTC ceases to be registered as a clearing agency under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and a successor depositary is not appointed within 90 days; |
| we, at our option, notify the trustee that we elect to cause the issuance of certificated debt securities; or |
| certain other events provided in the indenture should occur, including the occurrence and continuance of an event of default with respect to the debt securities. |
In all cases, certificated debt securities delivered in exchange for any global debt security will be registered in the names, and issued in any approved denominations, requested by the depository.
For information concerning paying agents for any debt securities in certificated form, see Description of Debt SecuritiesPayment ProvisionsPaying Agents.
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The following summary of certain Mexican federal and U.S. federal income tax considerations is based on the advice of Galicia y Robles, S.C., with respect to Mexican federal taxes, and on the advice of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, New York, New York, with respect to U.S. federal income taxes. This summary contains a description of the principal Mexican federal and U.S. federal income tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the debt securities, but does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to purchase the debt securities. This summary does not describe any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, locality or taxing jurisdiction other than the United States and Mexico.
This summary is based on the tax laws of Mexico and the United States as in effect on the date of this registration statement (including the tax treaty described below), as well as on rules and regulations of Mexico and regulations, rulings and decisions of the United States available on or before such date and now in effect. All of the foregoing are subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued validity of this summary.
Prospective purchasers of debt securities should consult their own tax advisers as to the Mexican, United States or other tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the debt securities, including, in particular, the application to their particular situations of the tax considerations discussed below, as well as the application of state, local, foreign or other tax laws.
Mexican Tax Considerations
The following is a general summary of the principal consequences under the Mexican Ley del Impuesto sobre la Renta (the Mexican Income Tax Law) and rules and regulations thereunder, as currently in effect, of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the debt securities by a holder that is not a resident of Mexico and that will not hold debt securities or a beneficial interest therein in connection with the conduct of a trade or business through a permanent establishment in Mexico (a foreign holder).
For purposes of Mexican taxation, tax residency is a highly technical definition that involves the application of a number of factors. Generally, an individual is a resident of Mexico if he or she has established his or her home in Mexico, and a corporation is considered a resident if it is incorporated under the laws of Mexico or it has its center of interests in Mexico. However, any determination of residence should take into account the particular situation of each person or legal entity.
U.S./Mexico and Other Tax Treaties
The United States and Mexico have entered into a Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation (collectively, with subsequent Protocols thereto, referred to as the tax treaty). Provisions of the tax treaty that may affect the taxation of certain United States holders are summarized below. The United States and Mexico have also entered into an agreement that covers the exchange of information with respect to tax matters. Mexico has also entered into and is negotiating several other tax treaties that may reduce the amount of Mexican withholding tax to which payments of interest on the debt securities may be subject. Prospective purchasers of debt securities should consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences, if any, of such treaties.
Payments of Interest, Principal and Premium, in Respect of the Debt Securities
Under the Mexican Income Tax Law, payments of interest we make in respect of the debt securities (including payments of principal in excess of the issue price of such debt securities, which, under Mexican law, are deemed to be interest) to a foreign holder will be subject to a Mexican withholding tax assessed at a rate of 4.9% if (1) the debt securities are placed through banks or brokerage houses (casas de bolsa) in a country with which Mexico has entered into a tax treaty for the avoidance of double taxation, which is in effect, (2) the debt
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securities are registered with the Special Section (Sección Especial) of the National Registry of Securities (the Registro Nacional de Valores or the RNV), and (3) the information requirements specified by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público) (the SHCP) under its general rules are satisfied. In case such requirements are not met, the applicable withholding tax rate will be 10%. We believe that because the conditions described in (1) through (3) above will be satisfied, the applicable withholding tax rate will be 4.9%.
Under general regulations published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación, which regulations are subject to amendment or repeal, the information requirements which must be satisfied, according to the SHCP, are generally that: (a) the debt securities are registered in the Special Section of the RNV (and copies of the approval of such registration are filed with the SHCP), (b) we timely file with the SHCP, after completion of the transaction contemplated by this document, certain information relating to the issuance of the debt securities, (c) we timely file with the SHCP information representing that no party related to us, jointly or individually, directly or indirectly, is the effective beneficiary of 5% or more of the aggregate amount of each interest payment, and (d) we maintain records which evidence compliance with items (a), (b) and (c) above.
A higher income tax withholding rate (up to a maximum of 33%) will be applicable when the effective beneficiaries of payments treated as interest, whether directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, who receive more than 5% of the aggregate amount of such payments on the debt securities and are (1) our shareholders who own, directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, more than 10% of our voting stock, or (2) entities more than 20% of whose stock is owned, directly or indirectly, individually or collectively with related persons, by us or by persons related to us. For such purposes, under the Mexican Income Tax Law, persons are considered related if one possesses an interest in the business of the other, common interests exist between them, or a third person holds an interest in the business or property of both persons.
Payments of interest we make with respect to the debt securities to a non-Mexican pension or retirement fund will be generally exempt from Mexican withholding taxes, provided that (1) the fund is the effective beneficiary of such interest income, (2) the fund is duly established pursuant to the laws of its country of origin, (3) the relevant interest income is exempt from taxation in such country, and (4) the fund is duly registered with the SHCP.
We have agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional amounts to the holders of debt securities in respect of the Mexican withholding taxes mentioned above. If we pay additional amounts in respect of such Mexican withholding taxes, any refunds of such additional amounts will be for our account. See Description of the Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts.
Holders or beneficial owners of debt securities may be requested to provide certain information or documentation necessary to enable us to establish the appropriate Mexican withholding tax rate applicable to such holders or beneficial owners. In the event that the specified information or documentation concerning the holder or beneficial owner, if requested, is not provided on a timely basis, our obligations to pay additional amounts may be limited as set forth under Description of the Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts.
Under the Mexican Income Tax Law, payments of principal we make to a foreign holder of the debt securities will not be subject to any Mexican withholding or similar taxes.
Taxation of Disposition of Debt Securities
The application of Mexican tax law provisions to capital gains realized on the disposition of debt securities by foreign holders is unclear. We expect that no Mexican tax will be imposed on transfers of debt securities between Foreign Holders effected outside of Mexico.
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Other Mexican Taxes
A foreign holder will not be liable for estate, gift, inheritance or similar taxes with respect to its holdings of debt securities. There are no Mexican stamp, issue registration or similar taxes payable by a foreign holder with respect to debt securities.
United States Tax Considerations
The following is a summary of certain United States federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to a beneficial owner of debt securities that is a citizen or resident of the United States or a domestic corporation or otherwise subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of the debt securities (a U.S. holder). It does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a particular investors decision to invest in debt securities.
In addition, this summary deals only with investors that are U.S. holders who acquire the debt securities in the United States as part of the initial offering of the debt securities, who will own the debt securities as capital assets, and whose functional currency is the U.S. dollar. It does not address U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to investors that own or are treated as owning 10% or more of our voting shares or who may be subject to special tax rules, such as banks, financial institutions, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies or dealers in securities or currencies, certain short-term holders of debt securities, or persons that hedge their exposure in the debt securities or will hold debt securities as a position in a straddle or conversion transaction or as part of a synthetic security or other integrated financial transaction. U.S. holders should be aware that the U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding the debt securities may be materially different for investors described in the prior sentence, including as a result of recent changes in law applicable to investors with short holding periods or that engage in hedging transactions.
This discussion also does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to particular issuances of debt securities, such as debt securities offered at a price less than their stated principal amount or debt securities denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. For information regarding any such special tax considerations relevant to particular issuances you should read the applicable prospectus supplement.
Payments of Interest and Additional Amounts
Payments of the gross amount of interest and additional amounts (as defined in Description of the Debt SecuritiesPayment of Additional Amounts, i.e., including amounts withheld in respect of Mexican withholding taxes) with respect to a debt security will be taxable to a U.S. holder as ordinary interest income at the time that such payments are accrued or are received, in accordance with the U.S. holders method of tax accounting. Thus, accrual method U.S. holders will report stated interest on the debt security as it accrues, and cash method U.S. holders will report interest when it is received or unconditionally made available for receipt.
Foreign Source Income and Foreign Tax Credits
The Mexican withholding tax that is imposed on interest will be treated as a foreign income tax eligible, subject to generally applicable limitations and conditions under U.S. tax law, for credit against a U.S. holders federal income tax liability or, at the U.S. holders election, for deduction in computing the holders taxable income. Interest and additional amounts paid on the debt securities generally will constitute foreign source passive income. Gain or loss realized by a U.S. holder on the sale or other disposition of a debt security generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.
The calculation and availability of foreign tax credits and, in the case of a U.S. holder that elects to deduct foreign taxes, the availability of deductions, involves the application of complex rules that depend on a U.S. holders particular circumstances. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of foreign tax credits and the treatment of additional amounts.
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Disposition of Debt Securities
A U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss on the sale, redemption or other disposition of the debt securities in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, redemption or other disposition (less any amounts attributable to accrued but unpaid interest, which will be taxable as such) and the U.S. holders adjusted tax basis in the debt securities. Gain or loss realized by a U.S. holder on such sale, redemption or other disposition generally will be long-term capital gain or loss if, at the time of the disposition, the debt securities have been held for more than one year.
Information Reporting and Back-up Withholding
The paying agent may be required to file information returns with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service with respect to payments made to certain U.S. holders on the debt securities. A U.S. holder may be subject to backup withholding on the payments that the U.S. taxpayer receives on the debt securities unless such U.S. holder (i) is a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories and demonstrates this fact, or (ii) provides a correct taxpayer identification number on an IRS Form W-9, certifies as to no loss of exemption from backup withholding and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Any amounts withheld under these rules will be allowed as a credit against such U.S. holders federal income tax liability and may entitle such U.S. holder to a refund, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS.
Non-U.S. Holders
A holder or beneficial owner of debt securities that is not a U.S. holder (a non-U.S. holder) generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on interest received on the debt securities. In addition, a non-U.S. holder will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale of debt securities unless, in the case of gain realized by an individual non-U.S. holder, the non-U.S. holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.
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At the time of offering any debt securities, we will supplement the following summary of the plan of distribution with a description of the offering, including the particular terms and conditions thereof, set forth in a prospectus supplement relating to those securities.
We may sell securities in any of three ways: (i) through underwriters or dealers; (ii) directly to one or a limited number of institutional purchasers; or (iii) through agents. Each prospectus supplement with respect to a series of securities will set forth the terms of the offering of those securities, including the name or names of any underwriters or agents, the price of such securities and the net proceeds to us from such sale, any underwriting discounts, commissions or other items constituting underwriters or agents compensation, any discount or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers and any securities exchanges on which those securities may be listed.
If underwriters are used in the sale, the securities will be acquired by the underwriters for their own account and may be resold from time to time in one or more transactions, including negotiated transactions, at a fixed public offering price or at varying prices to be determined at the time of sale. We may offer the securities to the public either through underwriting syndicates of investment banking firms represented by managing underwriters, or directly through one or more such investment banking firms or others, as designated. Unless otherwise set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement, the obligations of the underwriters to purchase the securities will be subject to certain conditions precedent and the underwriters will be obligated to purchase all of the securities offered thereby if any are purchased. Any initial public offering price and any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers may be changed from time to time.
We may sell securities either directly to one or more institutional purchasers, or through agents designated by us from time to time. Any agent involved in the offer or sale of the securities will be named, and any commissions payable by us to such agent will be set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. Unless otherwise indicated in such prospectus supplement, any such agent will be acting on a reasonable best efforts basis for the period of its appointment.
If indicated in the applicable prospectus supplement, we will authorize agents, underwriters or dealers to solicit offers by certain specified institutions to purchase the securities from us at the public offering price set forth in the prospectus supplement plus accrued interest, if any, pursuant to delayed delivery contracts providing for payment and delivery on one or more specified dates in the future. Institutions with which such contracts may be made include commercial and saving banks, insurance companies, pension funds, investment companies, educational and charitable institutions and others, but in all such cases we must approve such institutions. Such contracts will be subject only to those conditions set forth in such prospectus supplement and the prospectus supplement will set forth the commission payable for solicitation of those contracts.
Agents and underwriters may be entitled under agreements entered into with us to indemnification by us against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or to contribution with respect to payments which the agents or underwriters may be required to make in respect thereof.
Agents and underwriters may engage in transactions with us or perform services for us in the ordinary course of business.
Each series of debt securities will be a new issue, and there will be no established trading market for any security prior to its original issue date. We may not list any particular series of debt securities on a securities exchange or quotation system. No assurance can be given as to the liquidity or trading market for any of the debt securities.
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The consolidated financial statements of América Móvil, S.A. de C.V. at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, included in our annual report on Form 20-F/A (Amendment No. 1) for the year ended December 31, 2003 incorporated by reference in this prospectus and registration statement have been audited by Mancera, S.C., an independent registered public accounting firm, a Member Practice of Ernst & Young Global, as set forth in their report thereon incorporated by reference elsewhere herein which, as to the years 2002 and 2001, is based in part on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers, independent registered public accounting firm. The financial statements referred to above are incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such reports given on the authority of such firms as experts in accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements of Telecom Americas Ltd., for the year ended December 31, 2001 and the 186 day period ended December 31, 2000, incorporated in this prospectus by reference from America Movil, S.A. de C.V.s annual report on Form 20-F/A (Amendment No. 1) for the year ended December 31, 2003, have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered chartered accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is incorporated by reference and have been so incorporated in reliance upon the report of such firm given their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
VALIDITY OF THE DEBT SECURITIES
The validity of the debt securities under New York law will be passed upon by Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton or any other law firm named in the applicable prospectus supplement. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, certain matters of Mexican law relating to the debt securities will be passed upon by Galicia y Robles, S.C. Mr. Rafael Robles Miaja, a member of our Board of Directors and Corporate Secretary, is a partner at the firm Galicia y Robles, S.C.
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES
We and Telcel are corporations organized under the laws of Mexico, with our principal places of business (domicilio social) in Mexico City. In addition, most of our and Telcels respective directors, officers and controlling persons, as well as certain experts named in this prospectus, reside outside the United States, and all or a substantial portion of their assets and our assets are located outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon these persons or to enforce against them, either inside or outside the United States, judgments obtained against these persons in U.S. courts, or to enforce in U.S. courts judgments obtained against these persons in courts in jurisdictions outside the United States, in each case, in any action predicated upon civil liabilities under the U.S. federal securities laws. Based on the opinion of Galicia y Robles, S.C., our Mexican counsel, there is doubt as to the enforceability against these persons in Mexico, whether in original actions or in actions for enforcement of judgments of U.S. courts, of liabilities predicated solely upon the U.S. federal securities laws.
The table on the following page sets forth the estimated expenses to be paid by the registrants in connection with the establishment of the shelf registration facility:
Securities and Exchange Commission registration fee |
U.S.$ | 253,400 | |
Legal fees and expenses |
35,000 | ||
Accounting fees and expenses |
90,000 | ||
Total |
U.S.$ | 378,400 | |
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
This prospectus is part of a registration statement for debt securities, including exhibits, that we have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, on Form F-3 under the Securities Act of 1933. This prospectus does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement. Statements made in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document are not necessarily complete. We have filed certain of these documents as exhibits to our registration statement and we refer you to those documents. Each statement in this prospectus relating to a document filed as an exhibit is qualified in all respects by the filed exhibit.
We file reports, including annual reports on Form 20-F, and other information with the SEC pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC that apply to foreign private issuers. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at its Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20459. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Any filings we make electronically will be available to the public over the Internet at the SECs web site at www.sec.gov.
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INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference the information we file with them, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus, and certain later information that we file with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information. We incorporate by reference the following documents:
| our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2003, filed with the SEC on June 30, 2004, as amended by our report on Form 20-F/A, filed with the SEC on July 23, 2004 (SEC File No. 001-16269), |
| our report on Form 6-K, containing our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and notes thereto for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, furnished to the SEC on October 1, 2004, |
| our report on Form 6-K, relating to our unaudited condensed consolidated results for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2004, furnished to the SEC on October 29, 2004, |
| any future filings on Form 20-F made with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, after the date of this prospectus and prior to the termination of the offering of the securities offered by this prospectus, and |
| any future reports on Form 6-K that we furnish to the SEC after the date of this prospectus that are identified in such reports as being incorporated by reference in this prospectus. |
You may request a copy of any and all of the information that has been incorporated by reference in this prospectus and that has not been delivered with this prospectus, at no cost, by writing or telephoning us at Lago Alberto 366, Edificio Telcel I, Piso 2, Colonia Anáhuac, 11320, México D.F., México, Attention: Leonel Schofecker, Investor Relations, telephone (5255) 2581-4411.
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