FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 99-144 FEE RATE ADVISORY Washington, D.C., November 1, 1999 -- The continuing resolution has been extended through Friday, November 5, 1999. Therefore, the fee rate on filings made pursuant to Section 6(b) of the Securities Act of 1933 will remain at the current rate of $278 per $1,000,000. Please note that when an appropriations bill is enacted, the fee rate will decrease to $264 per $1,000,000. We will issue further notices as appropriate to keep filers and registrants informed of developments affecting the Section 6(b) fee rate. This information will be posted at the SEC's Internet website at http://www.sec.gov. Please contact the Filer Support Unit in the Office of Filings and Information Services at (202) 942-8900 if you have any questions. # # #