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Highwoods Properties

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Employees 201-500
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FY1998 Annual Report · Highwoods Properties
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AMB Property Corporation

1998

annual report

building alliances

building value

AMB Property Corporation is one of the largest Real Estate Investment Trusts in the United

States. The Company is active in markets across the country and focuses primarily on industrial

properties located in major distribution markets. Through its Strategic Alliance Programs, AMB

is creating innovative, mutually beneficial alliances with other real estate professionals that are

expanding and enhancing the value of its property portfolio. The Company owns and operates

620 buildings and centers totaling 63.6 million square feet.

AMB common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AMB.

TABL E  OF  CO NTENTS:

1 Financial Highlights

2 Letter to Shareholders

6 Strategic Alliance Programs

14 Financial Review

38 Report of Independent Auditors

39 Directors and Officers

40 Shareholder Information

Financial Highlights

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   p e r   s h a r e   d a t a )

1 9 9 4

1 9 9 5

1 9 9 6

H i s t o r i c a l   P r o p e r t i e s ( 1 )

C o m p a n y

P r o   F o r m a ( 2 )

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

nnnnnn

1 9 9 7

F o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

Revenues

$

51,682 $ 108,249

$ 167,953

$ 235,225

$ 284,674

$ 358,887

Net operating income

34,938

71,358

112,632

154,367

EBITDA

FFO

FFO per share (diluted)

203,196

195,218

147,409

1.66

262,813

252,353

170,407

1.90

( I n   t h o u s a n d s )

1 9 9 4

1 9 9 5

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

H i s t o r i c a l   P r o p e r t i e s

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

C o m p a n y

A s   o f   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

Total assets

Debt

Market equity

Shares and units outstanding

Square feet

Occupancy

$ 721,131 $1,117,181

$1,622,559

$2,506,255

$3,562,885

201,959

254,067

548,134

15,786

96.4%

24,897

96.7%

34,891

96.5%

685,652

1,368,196

2,221,469

1,988,038

88,417

43,545

95.8%

90,365

63,596

95.8%

Revenues

(dollars in millions)

Net Operating Income

(dollars in millions)

FFO Per Share
(diluted)

(dollars per share)

$359

$263

$1.90

$1.66

$235

$168

$108

$52

$154

$113

$71

$35

94

95

96

97

98

94

95

96

97

98

97

98

(1) The historical results for 1997 include the results of the Company for the period from November 26, 1997, the commencement of operations as a fully

integrated REIT, to December 31, 1997 and the results achieved by the prior owners of the Properties for the period from January 1, 1997 to November 25,
1997, and the years ended December 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996.

(2) The pro forma financial information has been prepared as if the formation transactions, initial public offering, property acquisitions and dispositions

during 1997 and certain other transactions had occurred on January 1, 1997.

to our shareholders

No one has ever accused AMB of being a typical company. Over the past 15 years, we

have made a point of differentiating ourselves. Our initial public offering in November

1997 is a case in point. Conventional wisdom said there was no compelling reason for

us  to  go  public.  We  were  a  successful  investment  manager,  but  we  believed  public

ownership would maximize returns for our investors, improve our operating efficiency,

and give us a valuable new form of currency to fuel our growth. In other words, we saw

tremendous opportunity in public ownership, and now following our first full year as

a public company, we can measure the financial and strategic impact of our decision.

For  the  year,  funds  from  operations  per  share  grew  14.5%  while  same

store net operating income grew 7.1%. We significantly strengthened our financial

flexibility,  raising  $675  million  in  new  capital  in  part  by  executing  a  large-scale

unsecured  debt  financing.  We  acquired  properties  totaling  $838  million,  added

19.1 million square feet to our portfolio, and initiated $262 million in development

projects. We ended the year with 620 industrial buildings and retail centers, totaling

63.6 million square feet, and a capitalization exceeding $3.7 billion, making us one

2

of the nation’s leading public REITs.

AMB also took a key strategic step early in 1999 when we signed agreements

to sell most of our retail properties for $663 million. This move underscores our belief

that  the  growth  of  third  party  logistics,  airfreight  and  e-commerce  are  driving  a

fundamental, long-term change in how goods are distributed. For industrial property

leaders such as AMB, these trends will be highly favorable. Going forward, our port-

folio will emphasize properties that are critical links in the supply chain, especially

high-turnover warehouse/distribution facilities near major air cargo hubs and conve-

nient to major freeways or ports. This market sector has been a growing area of focus

and strength for AMB, and we intend to extend our leadership position in this area. 

AMB has made important progress in other areas of our business, as well.

For example, we are steadily expanding the AMB brand in our target markets. Through

our unique outsourcing model, we have continued to build strong ties with leading

real estate organizations. Our national network of strategic alliances is a valuable com-

petitive advantage for AMB that positions us as a partner, rather than a competitor of

local  real  estate  entrepreneurs.  Our  alliances  give  us  access  to  properties  not  readily

available to traditional REITs, and make us an efficient and flexible operator.

For these and many other reasons we feel the future is very bright at AMB.

We have a proven ability to create value and, looking to 1999 and beyond, we believe

we can extend our solid track record and maximize the significant opportunities we

see ahead. Our optimism is based not only on market trends, but also on two partic-

ular  strengths  at  AMB:  our  ability  to  generate  growth  internally  and  the  valuable

alliances we have forged with top real estate entrepreneurs throughout the country.

G E N E R A T I N G   G R O W T H   I N T E R N A L L Y The  importance  of  gener-

ating  internal  growth  is  underscored  by  the  changing  financial  dynamics  of  the

public real estate market, especially the increasing cost of equity capital. In the past,

most REITs fueled earnings growth through the spread between the cost of capital

and the returns generated through acquisitions. At AMB we have not depended on

that  model.  We  have  been  highly  selective  in  how  we  deploy  capital,  building  a

portfolio of quality properties that generate strong, steady and growing cash flow in

both good and bad market cycles. In other words, we do not need to rely primarily

on acquisitions to drive our profit growth. 

This  strategy  reflects  several  factors  that  are  rapidly  becoming  AMB

hallmarks. First, we have deployed capital carefully over the years in high quality

properties in supply-constrained markets. Second, we have made – and continue

3

to make – the necessary investments in those properties to ensure that our tenants

are satisfied. And third, we outsource on-site activities to top property management

and brokerage firms that maximize each property’s operating efficiency and tenant

satisfaction. The success of this strategy speaks for itself. Our 7.1% same store NOI

growth in 1998 – among the highest in our industry – was largely fueled by a 14.3%

increase in base rents.

Another unique attribute of AMB that reduces our exposure to changing

capital  markets  is  our  ability  to  access  private  funding.  AMB  was  founded  as  an

investment  manager  for  private  institutional  investors  and  –  unlike  most  other

REITs  –  private  capital  continues  to  be  a  thriving  part  of  our  business  under  our

Institutional Alliance Program.

Private capital increases AMB’s return on investment, and provides access

to  alternative  capital  sources.  This  “stretches”  our  internally  generated  capital  and

allows AMB to participate in a wide array of high quality acquisitions without dilut-

ing our current shareholders.

S T R O N G   A L L I A N C E S / N E W   G R O W T H   O P P O R T U N I T I E S

The success of our Institutional Alliance Program is mirrored in AMB’s other Strategic

Hamid R. Moghadam

President and 

Chief Executive Officer

Alliance  Programs.  The  objective  of  our  alliances  is  to  strengthen  the  ties  between

AMB and other real estate professionals to create mutually beneficial relationships. In

an industry of increasing specialization we believe that we can most effectively build

shareholder value by focusing on our core strengths, investing and setting long-term

strategy, while outsourcing and collaborating with firms that have complementary

strengths in day-to-day leasing, management, and development. I encourage you to

read the pages that follow for a more detailed look at our Strategic Alliance Programs

and how they contribute to AMB’s success.

These professional collaborations have proven very productive. In fact,

72%  of  AMB’s  acquisition  volume  in  1998  was  sourced  through  these  programs,

including $138 million through our Management Alliance Program and $216 mil-

lion generated by our UPREIT Alliance Program. In addition, substantially all of our

$262  million  in  development  starts  during  1998  were  initiated  through  the

Development Alliance Programs.

4

We  are  devoting  a  majority  of  our  development  efforts  to  industrial

properties that serve the distribution and logistics markets. Airfreight distribution,

in  particular,  is  an  especially  fast  growing  sector  –  expanding  at  two-and-a  half

times the rate of GDP growth – and one of the drivers of its continued growth will

be  e-commerce.  Web  retailers  depend  on  fast  delivery  to  differentiate  themselves

from traditional and mail-order retailers and to build customer loyalty. Beyond the

airfreight companies themselves, the key provider in the modern high-speed ful-

fillment chain will be the physical warehouses on or near the runways of major

air  cargo  facilities.  With  15  years  of  experience  serving  the  warehousing/trans-

portation market, we have an excellent head start in this arena. We have already

completed our first on-tarmac development, at the Dallas-Ft. Worth Airport, and we

are actively seeking other key opportunities.

In  closing,  I  want  to  thank  two  AMB  veterans  who  retired  this  past 

year: Dave Carniglia, our Chief Financial Officer, and Jean Hurley, who directed our

corporate  communications  and  investor  relations  efforts.  Both  played  very  impor-

tant  roles  in  the  Company’s  growth  over  the  years,  and  we  thank  them  for  their

contributions to AMB’s growth and success.

I  also  want  to  welcome  two  new  members  of  our  senior  management

team: David  Fries,  our  new Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel, and

Blake  Baird  who  joined  us  recently  from  his  position  as  a  Managing  Director  at

Morgan Stanley to become AMB’s Chief Investment Officer. David and Blake are the

latest additions to what I firmly believe is the strongest group of professionals in the

real estate industry. Indeed, for all of AMB’s innovative strategic thinking and strong

industry alliances, our most important competitive advantage has always been and

will continue to be our people. I want to express my pride and appreciation for the

excellent job they have done embracing and managing change over the past year.

Hamid R. Moghadam

President and Chief Executive Officer

March 31, 1999

5

strategic alliance

p r o g r a m s

AMB’s Strategic Alliance Programs are designed to build value by creating mutually

beneficial  relationships.  Real  estate  is  fundamentally  a  local  business,  and  we

believe  the  most  effective  way  for  a  national  company  to  operate  is  by  forging

alliances with the best available service providers in every market. Such collaborations

enable  AMB  to  leverage  the  expertise  and  resources  of  local  developers,  brokers,

property managers, and other owners of real estate  without incurring the risk and

expense of doing everything ourselves. This attitude is counter to the conventional

wisdom in our industry of integrating vertically; but, based on our successful history,

outsourcing  and  alliance  building  is  a  winning  21st  century  business  model  for

AMB.  It  has  improved  our  operating  efficiency  and  flexibility,  strengthened  our

customer  satisfaction  and  retention,  and  perhaps  most  important,  provided  a

continuous pipeline of opportunities for growth in the years ahead.

6

Strategic Alliance Programs

Investment

Operational

Development

Management

AMB’s six Strategic Alliance

Programs are grouped in two

categories. Investment Alliance

Programs establish relationships

with a variety of capital sources,

enhancing our ability to source

and finance attractive acqui-

sitions. Operating Alliance

UPREIT

Customer

Programs position AMB as an

ally of rather than a competitor

with service providers in our

industry, giving us access to

Institutional

Broker

local market insights, trends

and investment opportunities.

7

development

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

Developing  properties  requires  a  special  skill  that  is  almost  as  much  of  an  art  as  a

science. At AMB we seek to work with those developers who have proven they have both

the insight to recognize potential in an undervalued asset and the skill to realize that

potential.  The  partners  in  our  Development  Alliance  Program  are  typically  successful

entrepreneurs with the ability to execute a renovation or building project quickly and

efficiently.  Development  collaboration  allows  AMB  to  expand  its  revenue  potential

without  incurring  undue  risk,  and  it  provides  an  avenue  for  sharing  in  high-value

opportunities during strong market cycles without carrying the costly overhead that can

quickly destroy margins and profitability.

8

u p r e i t

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

For  certain  property  owners  seeking  ultimate  liquidity  and  a  strong  alternative

investment  with  tax  advantages,  we  offer  our  UPREIT  Alliance  Program.  Property

owners contribute their assets to AMB and in return receive equity in the form of

operating partnership units. Because the transaction provides a useful tax planning

structure, the property owners gain valuable flexibility in liquidating their assets.

Unique to AMB, owners may also continue to manage the properties they contribute.

It’s  another  example  of  how  we  adopt  flexible  approaches  to  attract  high  quality

assets to the AMB portfolio.

9

institutional

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

Given AMB’s origins as a manager of private real estate funds, it should be no surprise

that we recognize the value of providing a private investment vehicle for many of our

clients. These discrete relationships with institutional investors preclude the need for us

to rely solely on the public markets for equity and debt capital, and they offer a valuable

source of incremental fee income and investment returns for AMB. Our institutional

partners  gain  significant  benefits  as  well.  The  private  co-investment  format  lets

institutions  unambiguously  align  their  investment  goals  with  those  of  their  asset

manager.  Perhaps  most  importantly,  the  Institutional  Alliance  Program  provides

access to AMB’s proven expertise in acquiring and managing real estate portfolios

for institutional investors of all sizes, types and investment perspectives.

10

management

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

The final determinant of each tenant’s satisfaction is how well a building is maintained

and  how  quickly  any  needs  are  addressed.  Most  REITs  and  property  owners  handle

this key function in-house. AMB has chosen to follow a different strategy. We believe

real estate management requires a specialized skill set, so we outsource management

of our properties to leading local firms, working closely with each to ensure optimum

efficiency,  quality  control,  and  tenant  satisfaction.  Not  only  does  this  increase  our

flexibility,  reduce  our  overhead,  and  improve  customer  service  –  a  result  borne  out

by our strong operating margins and high level of customer satisfaction – it also gives

AMB highly influential allies at the grassroots level who can help us retain our existing

tenants and develop new customer relationships.

11

customer 

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

As a national property owner with a sharp focus on high-volume warehouse/distribution

properties, AMB has built strong relationships over the past two decades with many of

its larger, longer-term tenants. Our goal in the Customer Alliance Program is to build on

the trust that we have established and deepen those relationships. After all, larger tenants

generally have real estate needs throughout the country, not just in individual markets,

and we are committed to making their property search/renovation/build-out in new

markets as efficient and user-friendly as possible. This isn’t just a good customer relations

tactic, it’s a key component of our strategy for financial growth. By working closely with

our existing customers, we can generate a steadily growing stream of incremental revenue

from internal sources.

12

b r o k e r

a l l i a n c e   p r o g r a m

AMB  works  closely  with  the  top  local  leasing  companies  in  each  of  our  markets.

We understand that there is no better conduit to attracting the fast-growing small- and

mid-sized firms in each region. In essence, through the Broker Alliance Program, top

brokers become our local sales force and information source, and we give them every

incentive  –  competitive  commissions,  rapid  payment,  and  of  course,  excellent  real

estate – to direct high quality tenants to our properties. The result: AMB has a strong,

responsive, productive, and cost-effective sales presence in each of its markets.

13

financial review >

14

Selected Company and Predecessor 
Financial and Other Data

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

The following table sets forth selected consolidated historical financial and other data for the Company and 
its Predecessor on an historical basis for the years ended December 31, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998. Prior to
November 26, 1997 (the IPO date), the Company’s Predecessor provided real estate investment management services
to institutional investors.

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   d a t a ,

P r e d e c e s s o r ( 1 )

nnnnnnnnnnnnnn

H i s t o r i c a l ( 2 )

P r o   F o r m a ( 3 )

p e r c e n t a g e s   a n d   n u m b e r   o f   P r o p e r t i e s )

1 9 9 4

1 9 9 5

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

A s   o f   a n d   f o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

C o m p a n y

O P E R AT I N G   D ATA
Total revenues
Income from operations 

$ 12,865

$ 16,865

$ 23,991

$

56,062

$ 284,674

$ 358,887

before minority interests

2,925

3,296

7,140

18,885

103,903

123,750

Net income available to 
common stockholders

Net income per common share:
Basic (4)
Diluted (4)
Dividends per common share
Dividends per preferred share (5)

O T H E R   D ATA
EBITDA(6)
Funds from operations (7)
Cash flows provided by (used in):
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities

B A L A N C E   S H E E T   D ATA
Investments in real 

estate at cost

Total assets
Total consolidated debt (8)
Stockholders’ equity

2,925

3,262

7,003

18,228

99,508

108,954

0.59
0.59

0.64
0.64

1.38
1.38

1.39
1.38

1.16
1.15
1.37
–

1.27
1.26
1.37
0.99

$ 195,218
147,409

$ 252,353
170,407

131,621
(607,768)
553,199

177,180
(796,213)
604,202

$

–
4,092
–
3,848

$

–
4,948
–
4,241

$

–
7,085
–
6,300

$2,442,999
2,506,255
685,652
1,668,030

$3,369,060
3,562,885
1,368,196
1,765,360

(1) Represents the Predecessor’s historical financial and other data for the years ended December 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996. The Predecessor operated as an

investment manager prior to November 26, 1997.

(2) The historical 1997 results represent the Predecessor’s historical financial and other data for the period January 1, 1997 through November 25, 

1997. The financial and other data of the Company, and the Properties acquired in the Formation Transactions, have been included subsequent to
November 26, 1997 to December 31, 1997.

(3) Pro forma 1997 financial and other data has been prepared as if the Formation Transactions, the IPO (as described in “Note 1 of Notes to 

Consolidated Financial Statements”) and certain property acquisitions and divestitures in 1997 had occurred on January 1, 1997.

(4) Basic and diluted net income per share equals the pro forma net income divided by 85,874,513 and 86,156,556 shares, respectively, for 1997, and net

income available to common stockholders divided by 85,876,383 and 86,235,176 shares, respectively, for 1998.

(5) Dividends for the period commencing on July 27, 1998, the date of Series A Preferred Stock issuance.
(6) EBITDA is computed as income from operations before divestiture of Properties and minority interests plus interest expense, income taxes, depreciation

and amortization. We believe that in addition to cash flows and net income, EBITDA is a useful financial performance measure for assessing the operating
performance of an equity REIT because, together with net income and cash flows, EBITDA provides investors with an additional basis to evaluate the
ability of a REIT to incur and service debt and to fund acquisitions and other capital expenditures. Includes an adjustment to reflect the Company’s pro
rata share of EBITDA in an unconsolidated joint venture. EBITDA is not a measurement of operating performance calculated in accordance with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles and should not be considered as a substitute for operating income, net income, cash flows from operations or
other statement of operations or cash flow data prepared in accordance with U.S generally accepted accounting principles. EBITDA may not be indica-
tive of our historical operating results, nor be predictive of potential future results. While EBITDA is frequently used as a measure of operations and the
ability to meet debt service requirements, it is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other REITs.

(7) Funds from Operations (“FFO”) is defined as income from operations before minority interest, gains or losses from sale of real estate and extraordinary
losses plus real estate depreciation and adjustment to derive the Company’s pro rata share of the FFO of unconsolidated joint ventures, less minority
interests’ pro rata share of the FFO of consolidated joint ventures and perpetual preferred stock dividends. In accordance with the National Association of
Real Estate Investment Trust (“NAREIT”) White Paper on FFO, the Company includes the effects of straight-line rents in FFO. We believe that FFO is an
appropriate measure of performance for an equity REIT. While FFO is a relevant and widely used measure of operating performance of REITs, it does not
represent cash flow from operations or net income as defined by U.S generally accepted accounting principles, and it should not be considered as an
alternative to those indicators in evaluating liquidity or operating performance. Further, FFO as disclosed by other REITs may not be comparable.

(8) Secured debt includes unamortized debt premiums of approximately $18,286, and $15,217 as of December 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively. 

See “Notes 2 and 5 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

15

Selected Property 
Financial and Other Data

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

For  comparative  purposes,  the  table  that  follows  provides  selected  historical  financial  and  other  data  of  the

Properties. The historical results of the Properties for 1997 include the results achieved by the Company for the period

from November 26, 1997 to December 31, 1997 and the results achieved by the prior owners of the Properties for the

period from January 1, 1997 to November 25, 1997. The historical results of operations of the Properties for periods prior

to November 26, 1997 include Properties that were managed by the Predecessor and exclude the results of four Properties

that  were  contributed  to  the  Company  in  the  Formation  Transactions  that  were  not  previously  managed  by  the

Predecessor. In addition, the historical results of operations include the results of Properties acquired after November 26,

1997, from the date of acquisition of such Properties to December 31, 1997.

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   d a t a ,
p e r c e n t a g e s   a n d   n u m b e r   o f   P r o p e r t i e s )

P r o p e r t i e s   C o m b i n e d ( 1 )

nnnnnnnnnnnn

H i s t o r i c a l ( 2 )

P r o   F o r m a ( 3 )

1 9 9 4

1 9 9 5

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

A s   o f   a n d   f o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

C o m p a n y

O P E R AT I N G   D ATA

Rental revenues

$

50,893 $ 106,180 $ 166,415

$

233,856

$

282,665

$ 354,658

$ 666,672 $1,018,681 $1,616,091

$ 2,442,999

201,959

254,067

522,634

535,652

$3,369,060

734,196

B A L A N C E   S H E E T   D ATA

Investment in real 

estate at cost

Secured debt (4)

P R O P E RT Y   D ATA

INDUSTRIAL PROPERTIES

Property net 

operating income(5)

Total rentable square 

footage at end of period

13,364

21,598

29,609

37,329

Occupancy rate at 

end of period

RETAIL PROPERTIES

Property net 

operating income(5)

Total rentable square 

96.9%

97.3%

97.2%

95.7%

footage at end of period

2,422

3,299

5,282

6,216

Occupancy rate at 

end of period

93.7%

92.4%

92.4%

96.1%

137,955

181,832

56,611

96.0%

64,716

76,752

6,985

94.6%

(1) Represents the Properties’ combined historical financial and other data for the years ended December 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996. The historical results of
operations of the Properties for periods prior to November 26, 1997 include Properties that were managed by the Predecessor and exclude the results of
four properties that were contributed to the Company in the Formation Transactions that were not previously managed by the Predecessor.
(2) The historical results of the Properties for 1997 include the results of the Company for the period from November 26, 1997 (acquisition date) 

to December 31, 1997 and the results achieved by the prior owners of the Properties for the period from January 1, 1997 to November 25, 1997.
(3) The pro forma financial and other data has been prepared as if the Formation Transactions, the IPO (see “Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial

Statements”), and certain 1997 property acquisitions and divestitures had occurred on January 1, 1997.

(4) Secured debt as of December 31, 1997 and 1998 includes unamortized debt premiums of approximately $18,286 and $15,217, respectively. 

See “Notes 2 and 5 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

(5) Property net operating income (NOI) is defined as rental revenue, including reimbursements and straight-line rents, less property level operating expenses.

See “Note 13 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

16

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

You should read the following discussion and analysis of the consolidated financial condition and results of operations in con-

junction with the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Statements contained in this discussion which are not historical

facts may be forward looking statements. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology

such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “intends,” “plans,” “pro forma,” “estimates” or

“anticipates” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases. You can also identify forward-looking state-

ments by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. Forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and

you should not rely upon them as predictions of future events. There is no assurance that the events or circumstances reflected in

forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur. Forward-looking statements are necessarily dependent on assumptions, data

or methods that may be incorrect or imprecise and we may not be able to realize them. The following factors, among others, could

cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those set forth or contemplated in the forward-looking statements:

defaults or non-renewal of leases by tenants, increased interest rates and operating costs, our failure to obtain necessary outside

financing, difficulties in identifying properties to acquire and in effecting acquisitions, our failure to successfully integrate acquired

properties and operations, risks and uncertainties affecting property development and construction (including construction delays,

cost overruns, our inability to obtain necessary permits and public opposition to these activities), our failure to qualify and main-

tain our status as a real estate investment trust under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, environmental uncertain-

ties, risks related to natural disasters, financial market fluctuations, changes in real estate and zoning laws and increases in real

property  tax  rates.  Our  success  also  depends  upon  economic  trends  generally,  including  interest  rates,  income  tax  laws,  govern-

mental regulation, legislation, population changes and certain other risk factors discussed in the section entitled “Management’s

Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Business Risks” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K

for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998. We caution you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which

reflect our analysis only and speak only as of the date of this Annual Report or the dates indicated in the statements.

General

the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996. As an

investment manager, the Predecessor’s revenues con-

Because of the significant impact of the Formation

sisted primarily of fees earned in connection with real

Transactions and our initial public offering (the “IPO”)

estate management services. Management’s discussion

on our results of operations, the discussion below is

and analysis of the Company and Predecessor for the

presented as follows: 

years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 is limited to

n results of the Company and its Predecessor for the

investment management and other income and general

years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996; and 

and administrative expenses, and excludes a discussion

n results of the Properties for the years ended

of rental revenues, operating expenses, interest expense

December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996. 

and depreciation and amortization because such analy-

See Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial

sis is not comparable or meaningful given the differ-

Statements for a discussion of the Formation Transactions.

ences in lines of business between the Company and

Company and Predecessor 
Results of Operations 

The year ended December 31, 1998 was the

Company’s first full year operating as a real estate oper-

ating company. The historical results of the Company

for 1997 include its results, including property opera-

tions, for the period from November 26, 1997 (the com-

mencement of operations as a fully integrated real estate

company) to December 31, 1997 and the results of the

Company’s Predecessor, an investment manager, for the

period from January 1, 1997 to November 25, 1997, and 

the Predecessor.

COMPANY AND PREDECESSOR – YEARS ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 1998  AND 1997

Total revenues. Total revenues, including straight-

line rents, tenant reimbursements and other income,

totaled $358.9 million for the year ended December 31,

1998. The Predecessor’s revenues consisted primarily of

fees earned in connection with real estate management

services. As such, no such rental revenues existed for the

Predecessor for the years ended December 31, 1997.

17

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

Property operating expenses and real estate

taxes. Property operating expenses, including asset

management costs and real estate taxes, totaled $96.1

Properties Results 
of Operations

million for the year ended December 31, 1998. The

The historical results of operations of the Properties

Predecessor’s expenses consisted primarily of salaries

for periods prior to November 26, 1997 include Properties

and other general and administrative costs. As such, no

that were managed by the Predecessor and exclude 

such property operating expenses existed for the year

the results of four properties that were contributed to

ended December 31, 1997.

the Company in the Formation Transactions that the

Predecessor did not previously manage. The discussion

General and administrative expenses. Our gen-

below for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996

eral and administrative expenses were $11.9 million

is limited to a discussion of rental revenues, property

for the year ended December 31, 1998, as compared to 

operating expense and real estate taxes and excludes an

the Predecessor’s investment management expenses of

analysis of other income, interest expense and deprecia-

$19.4 million for the period from January 1, 1997 to

tion and amortization because such analysis is not com-

November 25, 1997. Investment management expenses

parable or meaningful given the differences in capital

of the Predecessor consisted primarily of salaries and

structures between the Company and the prior owners

other general and administrative expenses. The 46.1%

of the Properties and the impact of the Formation

decrease on an annualized basis in general and admin-

Transactions and the IPO on the Properties.

istrative expenses is attributable to the change in our

The historical property financial data presented in

operations from an investment manager to a fully inte-

this report show significant increases in revenues and

grated real estate company, and the formation of AMB

expenses principally attributable to the substantial port-

Investment Management. In connection with the

folio growth. As a result, we do not believe the year-to-

Formation Transactions, AMB Investment Management

year financial data are comparable. Therefore, the analysis

assumed employment and other related costs of certain

below shows changes resulting from Properties that the

employees who transferred from the Predecessor to

Predecessor owned as of January 1, 1997, excluding

AMB Investment Management for the purpose of car-

development projects (the “Same Store Properties”),

rying on the investment management business.

and changes attributable to acquisition and develop-

COMPANY AND PREDECESSOR – YEARS ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 1997  AND 1996

Investment management and other income. Invest-

ment management and other income for the period

from January 1, 1997 to November 25, 1997 was $29.0

million, which on an annualized basis represents a 34.1%

increase over the year ended December 31, 1996. The

increase reflects the growth in the portfolio under man-

agement. Investment management and other income

for the period from November 26, 1997 to December 31,

1997 was $0.6 million.

General and administrative expenses. General

ment activity during 1997 and 1998. For the comparison

between the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1997,

the Same Store Properties consist of properties aggregat-

ing 31.1 million square feet. For the comparison between

the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Same

Store Properties consist of the 59 Properties acquired

prior to January 1, 1996. Our future financial condition

and results of operations, including rental revenues, may

be impacted by the acquisition and divestiture of proper-

ties. Our future revenues and expenses may vary materi-

ally from their historical rates.

PROPERTIES – YEARS ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 1998  AND 1997

and administrative expenses for the period from January 1,

Rental revenues. Rental revenues, including

1997 to November 25, 1997 were $19.4 million, which

straight-line rents, tenant reimbursements and other

represents a 27.7% increase on an annualized basis over

property related income, increased by $72.0 million, or

the year ended December 31, 1996. The increase was

25.5%, for the year ended December 31, 1998, to $354.7

attributable to an increase in staffing that resulted from

million, as compared with the same period in 1997.

the growth in the portfolio under management.

Approximately $9.6 million, or 13.3%, of this increase

was attributable to Same Store Properties, with the

18

remaining $62.4 million attributable to Properties

Property operating expenses and real estate taxes.

acquired in 1998. The growth in rental revenues in Same

Property operating expenses and real estate taxes

Store Properties resulted primarily from the incremental

increased by $25.6 million, or 46.3%, for the year ended

effect of rental rate increases and changes in occupancy

December 31, 1997, to $80.9 million as compared to

and reimbursement of expenses. During the year ended

$55.3 million for the year ended December 31, 1996.

December 31, 1998, the increase in average base rents

Approximately $3.4 million of this increase was attrib-

(cash basis) was 14.3% on 7.7 million square feet leased. 

utable to the Same Store Properties, with the remaining

$22.2 million attributable to Properties acquired in 1997

Property operating expenses and real estate taxes.

and 1996. Same Store Properties real estate taxes and

Property operating expenses, including asset manage-

insurance expense increased by approximately $1.4 mil-

ment costs, increased by $14.6 million, or 17.9%, for

lion from 1996 to 1997. Same Store Properties other

the year ended December 31, 1998, to $96.1 million,

property operating expenses (excluding real estate taxes

as compared with the same period in 1997. Same Store

and insurance) increased by $2.0 million from 1996 to

Properties operating expenses decreased by approxi-

1997. The increases in expenses are primarily due to

mately $0.7 million for the year ended December 31,

increases in property tax assessment values and incentive

1998, while operating expenses attributable to Properties

management fees expense.

acquired in 1998 amounted to $15.3 million. The change

in Same Store Properties operating expenses and real

estate taxes relates to increases in Same Store Properties

real estate taxes of approximately $1.0 million, offset by

decreases in Same Store Properties other property operat-

ing expenses, including insurance expenses and property

management fees of approximately $1.7 million. The

remaining decrease in property operating expenses is

primarily attributable to lower asset management costs

in 1998 as compared to 1997 resulting from the change

in ownership structure.

PROPERTIES – YEARS ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 1997  AND 1996

Rental revenues. Rental income, including tenant

reimbursements and other property related income,

increased by $67.5 million, or 40.6%, for the year ended

December 31, 1997, to $233.9 million as compared to

$166.4 million for the year ended December 31, 1996.

Approximately $8.8 million, or 13.0%, of this increase

was attributable to the Same Store Properties, with the

remaining $58.7 million attributable to Properties

acquired in 1997 and 1996. The 6.3% growth in rental

income in the Same Store Properties resulted primarily

from the incremental effect of rental rate increases and

reimbursement of expenses. In 1997, we increased

average contractual or base rental rates on the Properties

by 12% on 393 new and renewing leases totaling 7.5

million rentable square feet (representing 17.2% of the

Properties’ aggregate rentable square footage).

Liquidity and 
Capital Resources

We currently expect that our principal sources of

working capital and funding for acquisitions, develop-

ment, expansion and renovation of the Properties will

include cash flow from operations, borrowings under

the Credit Facility, other forms of secured and unse-

cured financing, proceeds from equity or debt offerings

by the Company or the Operating Partnership (includ-

ing issuances of units in the Operating Partnership or its

subsidiaries), and net proceeds from divestiture of prop-

erties. We presently believe that our sources of working

capital and our ability to access private and public debt

and equity capital are adequate for us to continue to

meet liquidity requirements for the foreseeable future.

CAPITAL RESOURCES

Property divestitures. On March 9, 1999, we

signed a series of definitive agreements with BPP Retail,

LLC (“BPP Retail”), a co-investment entity between

Burnham Pacific Properties (“BPP”) and the California

Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”),

pursuant to which BPP Retail will acquire 28 of our retail

shopping centers, totaling 5.1 million square feet, for an

aggregate price of $663.4 million. BPP Retail will acquire

the centers in separate transactions, which we currently

expect to close on or about April 30, 1999, July 31, 1999

and December 1, 1999. In addition, we have entered

into a definitive agreement, subject to a financing 

19

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

confirmation, with BPP, pursuant to which BPP will

Debt and equity financing. In June 1998, the

acquire six additional retail centers, totaling 1.5 million

Operating Partnership issued $400,000 aggregate

square feet, for $284.4 million. Assuming satisfaction or

principal amount of unsecured notes (“Senior Debt

waiver of this condition, we currently expect this trans-

Securities”) in an underwritten public offering, the net

action to close by December 31, 1999. Assuming that

proceeds of which the Operating Partnership used to

the transactions with BPP Retail close as scheduled, the

repay amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility.

Company currently expects to reinvest approximately

The Senior Debt Securities mature in June 2008, June

$520 million in industrial properties and to reduce our

2015 and June 2018 and bear interest at a weighted

secured indebtedness by approximately $100 million.

average rate of 7.18%, which is payable in June and

There can be no assurance, however, that the transac-

December of each year, commencing in December 1998.

tions will close as scheduled or close at all, and it is pos-

The 2015 notes are putable and callable in June 2005.

sible that the transactions may not close with respect to

We received credit ratings for the Senior Debt Securities

just one or more properties. In the event that one or

of Baa1 from Moody’s Investors Service, BBB from

more transactions fail to close, or a closing is signifi-

Standard & Poor’s Corporation and BBB+ from Duff &

cantly delayed, net proceeds from divestitures of proper-

Phelps Credit Rating Co. As a result of the receipt of

ties will not be available to the same extent to fund our

these investment-grade credit ratings, the interest rate

acquisitions and developments. Any such failure or delay

on the Credit Facility was reduced by 20 basis points to

in any of the closings may also make us unable to repay

the current rate of LIBOR plus 90 basis points.

certain of our indebtedness with the net proceeds as we

In July 1998, the Company sold 4,000,000 shares 

currently intend, and could require us to borrow addi-

of 81⁄2% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock

tional funds or seek other forms of financing.

at a price of $25.00 per share in an underwritten public

offering. These shares are redeemable solely at the option

Credit facility. We have a $500 million unsecured

of the Company on or after July 27, 2003, subject to

revolving credit agreement with Morgan Guaranty Trust

certain conditions. The Company contributed the net

Company of New York, as agent, and a syndicate of

proceeds of $96.1 million to the Operating Partnership

twelve other banks. The Credit Facility has a term of

in exchange for 4,000,000 Series A Preferred Units with

three years and is subject to a fee that accrues on the

terms identical to the Series A Preferred Stock. The

daily average undrawn funds, which varies between 15

Operating Partnership used the proceeds to repay borrow-

and 25 basis points (currently 15 basis points) of the

ings under the Credit Facility incurred in connection with

undrawn funds based on our credit rating. We use the

property acquisitions and for general purposes.

Credit Facility principally for acquisitions and for gen-

In November 1998, the Operating Partnership

eral working capital requirements. Borrowings under

issued and sold 1,300,000 8.625% Series B Cumulative

the Credit Facility bear interest at LIBOR plus 90 to 120

Redeemable Preferred Units at a price of $50.00 per

basis points (currently LIBOR plus 90 basis points),

unit in a private placement. Distributions are cumula-

depending on our debt rating at the time of the borrow-

tive from the date of original issuance and are payable

ings. As of December 31, 1998, the outstanding balance

quarterly in arrears at a rate per unit equal to $4.3125

on the Credit Facility was $234 million and bore inter-

per annum. The Series B Preferred Units are redeemable

est at 6.10%. Monthly debt service payments on the

by the Operating Partnership on or after November 12,

Credit Facility are interest only. The Credit Facility

2003, subject to certain conditions, for cash at a redemp-

matures in November 2000. The total amount available

tion price equal to $50.00 per unit, plus accumulated

under the Credit Facility fluctuates based upon the bor-

and unpaid distributions thereon, if any, to the redemp-

rowing base, as defined in the agreement governing the

tion date. The Series B Preferred Units are exchangeable,

Credit Facility. At December 31, 1998, the remaining

at specified times and subject to certain conditions, on a

amount available under the Credit Facility was approx-

one-for-one basis, for shares of the Company’s Series B

imately $266 million. We currently expect that the prop-

Preferred Stock. The Operating Partnership used the pro-

erty divestitures will not materially affect the terms and

ceeds to repay borrowings under the Credit Facility, for

conditions of the Credit Facility.

property acquisitions and for general purposes.

20

In November 1998, a subsidiary of the Operating

Market capitalization. In connection with the

Partnership issued and sold 2,200,000 units of 8.75%

Formation Transactions and property acquisitions con-

Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Units at a

summated after the Formation Transactions, we have

price of $50.00 per unit in a private placement. Distri-

assumed various mortgages and other secured debt. As

butions are cumulative from the date of original issuance

of December 31, 1998, the aggregate principal amount

and are payable quarterly in arrears at a rate per unit

of this secured debt was $719 million, excluding unamor-

equal to $4.375 per annum. The Series C Preferred Units

tized debt premiums of $15.2 million. The secured debt

are redeemable by the subsidiary of the Operating

bears interest at rates varying from 4.0% to 10.4% per

Partnership on or after November 24, 2003, subject to

annum (with a weighted average of 7.9%) and final

certain conditions, for cash at a redemption price equal

maturity dates ranging from April 1999 to April 2014.

to $50.00 per unit, plus accumulated and unpaid distrib-

We believe that the carrying value of the debt approxi-

utions thereon, if any, to the redemption date. The Series

mates its fair value on December 31, 1998.

C Preferred Units are exchangeable, at specified times

In order to maintain financial flexibility and facil-

and subject to certain conditions, on a one-for-one basis,

itate the rapid deployment of capital through market

for shares of the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock.

cycles, we presently intend to operate with a debt-to-

The subsidiary of the Operating Partnership used the

total market capitalization ratio of approximately 45%

proceeds to make a loan to the Operating Partnership,

or less. Additionally, we presently intend to continue 

which used the funds to repay borrowings under the

to structure our balance sheet in order to maintain an

Credit Facility.

investment grade rating on our senior unsecured debt. 

The tables below summarize our debt maturities and capitalization as of December 31, 1998.

Debt  ( I n   t h o u s a n d s )

Year

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Thereafter

Sub-total

Unamortized premiums

Total consolidated debt

Our share of unconsolidated JV debt

Total debt

JV Partner’s share  of consolidated JV debt

Our share of total debt

Market Equity  ( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a m o u n t s )

Security

Common Stock

LP Units

Total

Secured Debt

Unsecured Senior
Debt Securities

Unsecured
Credit Facility

Total Debt

$0,014,061

$0,000,00–

$0,000,00–

$0,014,061

19,833

42,560

68,849

136,798

67,396

67,446

131,759

35,320

114,425

20,532

718,979

15,217

–

–

–

–

–

100,000

–

–

175,000

125,000

400,000

–

234,000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

234,000

–

$0,0734,196

$0,400,000

$0,234,000

253,833

42,560

68,849

136,798

67,396

167,446

131,759

35,320

289,425

145,532

1,352,979

15,217

1,368,196

20,186

1,388,382

(40,275)

$1,348,107

Outstanding
At 12/31/98

Market Price
At 12/31/98

Market Value
At 12/31/98

85,917,520

4,447,839

90,365,359

$22.00

$1,890,185

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

22.00

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

97,853

$1,988,038

21

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

Preferred Stock and Units  ( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   p e r c e n t a g e s )

Security

Series A Preferred Stock

Series B Preferred Units

Series C Preferred Units

Total/Weighted Average

Capitalization Ratios

Dividend
Rate

8.50%

8.63%

8.75%

8.66%

Liquidation
Preference

Redemption 
Provisions

$100,000

July 2003

65,000

November 2003

110,000

November 2003

$275,000

Consolidated debt plus our share of unconsolidated 

JV debt-to-total market capitalization

Consolidated debt plus our share of unconsolidated debt less 

JV partners’ share of consolidated debt-to-total market capitalization

Consolidated debt plus our share of unconsolidated 

JV debt plus preferred-to-total market capitalization

38.0%

36.9%

45.6%

LIQUIDITY

On March 5, 1999, the Company and the Operating

Partnership declared a quarterly cash distribution of

As of December 31, 1998, we had approximately

$0.35 per common share and operating partnership unit,

$25.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and $266

for the quarter ending March 31, 1999, payable April 15,

million of additional available borrowings under the

1999 to stockholders and unitholders of record as of

Credit Facility. We intend to use cash flow from opera-

March 31, 1999. This dividend (with an annualized rate

tions, borrowings under the Credit Facility, other forms

of $1.40 per share) represents a 2.2% increase from the

of secured and unsecured financing, proceeds from

dividend for the fourth quarter and is consistent with our

equity or debt offerings by the Company or the Operat-

philosophy of retaining as much cash flow as allowed

ing Partnership (including issuances of units in the

under the REIT tax rules while providing stockholders

Operating Partnership or its subsidiaries), and proceeds

with dividend growth. On March 5, 1999, the Company

from divestiture of properties to fund acquisitions,

declared a cash dividend of $0.53125 per share on its

development activities and capital expenditures and to

Series A Preferred Stock, and the Operating Partnership

provide for general working capital requirements.

declared a cash distribution of $0.53125 per unit on its

On December 4, 1998, the Company and the

Series A Preferred Units, for the three month period end-

Operating Partnership declared a quarterly cash distri-

ing April 14, 1999, payable on April 15, 1999 to stock-

bution of $0.3425 per common share and operating part-

holders and unitholders of record as of March 31, 1999.

nership unit, payable January 15, 1999 to stockholders

The anticipated size of our distributions, using only

and unitholders of record on December 31, 1998. The

cash from operations, will not allow us to retire all of

annual distribution per common share and unit for 1998

our debt as it comes due. Therefore, we intend to also

was $1.37. On December 4, 1998, the Company declared

repay maturing debt with net proceeds from future debt

a cash dividend of $0.53125 per share on its Series A

and/or equity financings. However, we may not be able

Preferred Stock, and the Operating Partnership declared

to obtain future financings on favorable terms or at all.

a cash distribution of $0.53125 per unit on its Series A

Preferred Units, for the three month period ended

CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

January 14, 1999, payable on January 15, 1999 to stock-

holders and unitholders of record as of December 31,

In addition to recurring capital expenditures and

1998. The 1998 dividend for the Series A Preferred Stock

costs to renew or re-tenant space, as of December 31,

and Units was $0.9917, for the partial year commencing

1998, our development pipeline included 18 projects

on July 27, 1998, which was the issuance date.

representing a total estimated investment of $349.9

million upon completion. Of this total, approximately

$156.0 million had been funded as of December 31,

22

1998, approximately $66.2 million is estimated to be

Costs of addressing our year 2000 issues. Given

required to complete projects under construction as of

the information known at this time about our systems,

December 31, 1998, and the remainder represents esti-

coupled with ongoing, normal course-of-business efforts

mated investments in either projects where construction

to upgrade or replace critical systems, as necessary, we

has not yet begun or future phases of projects under

do not expect year 2000 compliance costs to have any

construction. We presently expect to fund these expen-

material adverse impact on our liquidity or ongoing

ditures with cash flow from operations, borrowings

results of operations. The costs of such assessment and

under the Credit Facility, debt or equity issuances, and

remediation will be included in our general and admin-

net proceeds from property divestiture. Other than these

istrative expenses. Although we can make no assurance,

capital items, we have no material capital commitments. 

we currently do not expect that the year 2000 issue

During the period from January 1, 1998 to Decem-

will materially affect our operations due to problems

ber 31, 1998, we invested:

encountered by our suppliers, customers and lenders.

n $738.6 million in 228 industrial buildings, aggregating

18.8 million rentable square feet,

Risks of our year 2000 issues. In light of our

n $31.8 million in 2 retail centers, aggregating 0.4 million

assessment and remediation efforts to date, we believe

rentable square feet,

that any residual year 2000 risk is limited to non-criti-

n $67.1 million in an unconsolidated limited partnership

cal business applications and support hardware. No

interest in an existing joint venture that owns 36

assurance can be given, however, that all of our systems

industrial buildings aggregating 4.0 million square feet.

will be year 2000 compliant or that compliance will

We funded these acquisitions through borrowings

not have a material adverse effect on our future liquidity,

under the Credit Facility, cash, debt assumption and the

results of operations or ability to service debt.

issuance of units in the Operating Partnership.

YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE

ing our contingency plan for all operations to address

the most reasonably likely worst case scenarios regard-

Our state of readiness. We utilize a number of

ing year 2000 compliance. We expect such contingency

computer software programs and operating systems

plan to be completed by the end of the year.

Our contingency plans. We are currently develop-

across our entire organization, including applications

used in financial business systems and various adminis-

trative functions. To the extent that our software applica-

tions contain source code that is unable to appropriately

interpret the upcoming calendar year “2000” and

beyond, some level of modification or replacement of

such applications will be necessary. 

FUNDS FROM OPERATIONS

We believe that Funds from Operations (“FFO”),

as defined by the National Association of Real Estate

Investment Trusts (“NAREIT”), is an appropriate measure

of performance for an equity REIT. While FFO is a rele-

We are currently conducting a company-wide test of

vant and widely used measure of operating performance

our financial and non-financial systems to ensure that

our systems will adequately handle the year 2000 issue.

Our current financial system generally provides for a

four-digit year; however, the current system is not fully

of REITs, it does not represent cash flow from operations

or net income as defined by GAAP, and it should not be

considered as an alternative to those indicators in evalu-

ating liquidity or operating performance. Further, FFO as

year 2000 compliant. We expect that our financial system

disclosed by other REITs may not be comparable.

will be fully year 2000 compliant once we complete a

software upgrade in 1999. We are also currently surveying

our property managers to determine if our non-financial

systems (HVAC, security, lighting and other building sys-

tems) at our Properties are year 2000 compliant and to

determine the state of readiness of our tenants regarding

their year 2000 compliance. 

23

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

The following table reflects the calculation of our FFO for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1997 and 1998.

The 1997 FFO was prepared on a pro forma basis (giving effect to the completion of the Formation Transactions, the

IPO and certain 1997 property acquisitions and divestitures) as if they had occurred on January 1, 1997.

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e s )

Income from operations before minority interests

Real estate depreciation and amortization:

Total depreciation and amortization

Furniture, fixtures and equipment depreciation

FFO attributable to minority interests(1)(2)

Adjustments to derive FFO in unconsolidated joint venture(3):

Company’s share of net income

Company’s share of FFO

Series A preferred stock dividends

Series B & C preferred unit distributions

FFO(1)

Weighted average shares and units outstanding (diluted)

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

$103,903

$123,750

45,886

(173)

(2,207)

–

–

–

–

57,464

(463)

(5,899)

(1,750)

2,739

(3,639)

(1,795)

$147,409

$170,407

88,698,719

89,852,187

(1) Funds from Operations (“FFO”) is defined as income from operations before minority interest, gains or losses from sale of real estate and extraordinary

losses plus real estate depreciation and adjustment to derive our pro rata share of the FFO of unconsolidated joint ventures, less minority interests’ pro
rata share of the FFO of consolidated joint ventures and perpetual preferred stock dividends. In accordance with NAREIT White Paper on FFO, we
include the effects of straight-line rents in FFO.

(2) Represents FFO attributable to minority interests in consolidated joint ventures for the periods presented, which has been computed as minority interests’
share of net income before disposal of properties plus minority interests’ share of real estate-related depreciation and amortization of the consolidated
joint ventures for such periods. Such minority interests are not exchangeable into shares of Common Stock.

(3) Represents our pro rata share of FFO in unconsolidated joint ventures for the periods presented, which has been computed as our share of net income

plus our share of real estate-related depreciation and amortization of the unconsolidated joint venture for such periods.

QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT

MARKET RISK

The Company’s exposure to market risk includes

the rising interest rates in connection with the Company’s

unsecured credit facility and other variable-rate borrow-

ings and the ability of the Company to incur more debt

without stockholder approval, thereby increasing our

debt service obligations, which could adversely affect

the Company’s cash flows. See “Liquidity and Capital

Resources – Capital Resources – Market Capitalization.”

24

Consolidated Balance Sheets

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a m o u n t s )

A S S E T S

Investments in real estate:

Land and improvements 

Buildings and improvements

Construction in progress

Total investments in properties

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

Net investments in properties

Investment in unconsolidated joint venture

Properties held for divestiture, net

Net investments in real estate

Cash and cash equivalents

Other assets

Total assets

L I A B I L I T I E S   A N D   S T O C K H O L D E R S ’   E Q U I T Y

Debt:

Secured debt

Unsecured senior debt securities

Unsecured credit facility

Total debt

Other liabilities

Payable to affiliates

Total liabilities

Commitments and contingencies (note 11)

Minority interests

Stockholders’ equity:

Series A preferred stock, cumulative, redeemable, $.01 par value, 

100,000,000 shares authorized, 4,000,000 issued and outstanding, 

$100,000 liquidation preference

Common stock, $.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 

85,917,520 issued and outstanding

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Total stockholders’ equity

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

A s   o f   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

$ 550,635

$ 740,680

1,822,516

69,848

2,442,999

2,445,104

183,276

3,369,060

(4,153)

(58,404)

2,438,846

3,310,656

–

–

57,655

115,050

2,438,846

3,483,361

39,968

27,441

25,137

54,387

$ 2,506,255

$3,562,885

$ 535,652

$ 734,196

–

150,000

685,652

49,350

38,071

773,073

–

65,152

400,000

234,000

1,368,196

104,305

–

1,472,501

–

325,024

–

859

96,100

859

1,667,171

1,668,401

–

–

1,668,030

1,765,360

$ 2,506,255

$3,562,885

25

Consolidated Statements of Operations

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a m o u n t s )

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

F o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

R E V E N U E S

Rental revenues

Investment management and other income

Total revenues

O P E R AT I N G   E X P E N S E S

Property operating expenses

Real estate taxes

General and administrative

Interest, including amortization

Depreciation and amortization

Investment management expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations before minority interests

Minority interests’ share of net income

Net income

Series A preferred stock dividends

$

–

$ 26,465

23,991

23,991

–

–

–

–

–

16,851

16,851

7,140

(137)

29,597

56,062

5,312

3,587

1,197

3,528

4,195

19,358

37,177

18,885

(657)

$354,658

4,229

358,887

47,856

48,218

11,929

69,670

57,464

–

235,137

123,750

(11,157)

$

7,003

$ 18,228

$112,593

–

–

(3,639)

Net income available to common stockholders

$

7,003

$ 18,228

$108,954

I N C O M E   P E R   S H A R E   O F   C O M M O N   S T O C K

Basic

Diluted

$

$

1.38

1.38

$

$

1.39

1.38

$

$

1.27

1.26

W E I G H T E D   AV E R A G E  

C O M M O N   S H A R E S   O U T S TA N D I N G

Basic

Diluted

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

5,079,855

5,079,855

13,140,218

85,876,383

13,168,036

86,235,176

26

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s )

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

F o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

C A S H   F L O W S   F R O M   O P E R AT I N G   A C T I V I T I E S

Net Income

Adjustments to reconcile net income to 

net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

Straight-line rents

Amortization of debt premiums and financing costs

Minority interests’ share of net income

Equity in (income) loss of AMB Investment Management

Equity earnings of unconsolidated joint venture

Changes in assets and liabilities:

Other assets

Other liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

C A S H   F L O W S   F R O M   I N V E S T I N G   A C T I V I T I E S

Cash paid for property acquisitions

Additions to properties

Additions to buildings, development costs, 

and improvements

Acquisition of interest in unconsolidated joint venture

Distribution received from unconsolidated joint venture

Reduction of payable to affiliates in 

connection with Formation Transactions

Net cash used for investing activities

C A S H   F L O W S   F R O M   F I N A N C I N G   A C T I V I T I E S

Issuance of common stock

Borrowings on unsecured credit facility

Borrowings on secured debt

Payment of unsecured credit facility

Payments on secured debt

Payment of financing fees

Net proceeds from issuance of senior debt securities

Net proceeds from issuance of  Series A preferred stock

Net proceeds from issuance of Series B & C preferred units

Dividends paid to common stockholders and 

preferred stockholders

Dividends paid to Predecessor stockholders

Distributions to minority interests

Principal payment of notes receivable from 

stockholders of Predecessor

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

$

7,003

$ 18,228

$ 112,593

–

–

–

137

–

–

(249)

(25)

6,866

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(5,262)

(34)

318

(4,978)

1,888

1,205

3,093

$

4,195

(901)

(266)

657

(61)

–

(11,873)

2,301

12,280

57,464

(10,921)

(2,730)

11,157

313

(1,730)

(9,377)

20,411

177,180

–

(564,304)

(228,432)

–

(4,375)

–

–

–

(232,807)

317,009

150,000

850

(182,000)

(516)

(900)

–

–

–

(11,506)

(16,404)

–

869

257,402

36,875

3,093

(137,913)

(67,376)

11,451

(38,071)

(796,213)

–

745,000

58,725

(661,000)

(79,380)

(7,704)

399,166

96,100

167,993

(88,236)

–

(26,462)

–

604,202

(14,831)

39,968

$ 39,968

$ 25,137

27

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

F o r   t h e   Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 , 1 9 9 6 , 1 9 9 7   a n d   1 9 9 8

Series A
Preferred
Stock

Common Stock

Number of
Shares

Amount

Additional
Paid-in
Capital

Notes
Receivable
Retained
From
Earnings Stockholders

Total

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a m o u n t s )

PREDECESSOR 

Balance at December 31, 1995

$00,00–

5,079,855 $1,042

$0,001,298

$(002,781

$(880)

$0,004,241

Net Income

Dividends declared and paid

Principal payment of notes 

receivable from stockholders

Issuance of common stock for notes

Balance at December 31, 1996

AMB PROPERTY CORPORATION

Net Income

Dividends declared and paid to 

Predecessor stockholders

Principal payment of notes 

receivable from stockholders

Exchange of Predecessor 

shares for shares of 

AMB Property Corporation, net

Issuance of common stock 

for Properties

Issuance of common stock, 

net of Offering costs of $38,068

Issuance of restricted stock

Distributions paid to AMB Property 

Corporation stockholders

Balance at December 31, 1997

Net Income

Issuance of preferred stock, 

net of offering costs

Issuance of restricted stock

Reallocation of Limited Partners’ 

interests in Operating Partnership

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3,639

96,100

–

–

Dividends declared

(3,639)

7,003

(5,262)

–

–

7,003

(5,262)

–

–

–

–

–

–

101,595

307

–

–

–

–

5,181,450

1,349

1,298

4,522

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

318

(307)

(869)

318

–

6,300

–

–

18,228

(16,404)

869

869

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,370,391

300,032

120

(11,506)

1,668,030

112,593

96,100

930

7,215

(119,508)

–

–

–

–

–

18,228

(990)

(1,298)

(14,116)

–

–

(434,834)

(312)

312

65,022,185

651

1,369,740

16,100,000

161

299,871

120

5,712

–

–

–

(2,872)

(8,634)

85,874,513

859

1,667,171

–

–

–

43,007

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

930

7,215

108,954

–

–

–

(6,915)

(108,954)

Balance at December 31, 1998

$96,100

85,917,520 $0,859

$1,668,401

$(000,00–

$(00–

$1,765,360

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

28

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a n d   s q u a r e   f e e t   d a t a )

N O T E   1 :

per share, resulting in gross offering proceeds of

Organization and 
Formation of Company

AMB Property Corporation, a Maryland corpora-

tion (the “Company”), commenced operations as a

fully integrated real estate company effective with the

completion of its initial public offering (the “IPO”) on

November 26, 1997. The Company elected to be taxed

as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under Sections

856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986

(the “Code”), commencing with its taxable year ended

December 31, 1997, and believes its current organiza-

tion and method of operation will enable it to main-

tain its status as a REIT. The Company, through its

controlling interest in its subsidiary, AMB Property,

L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “Operating

Partnership”), is engaged in the acquisition, ownership,

operation, management, renovation, expansion and

development of industrial buildings and community

shopping centers in target markets nationwide. Unless

the context otherwise requires, the “Company” means

AMB Property Corporation, the Operating Partnership

and its other controlled subsidiaries.

The Company and the Operating Partnership were

formed shortly before consummation of the IPO. AMB

Institutional Realty Advisors, Inc., a California corpora-

tion and registered investment advisor (the “Predecessor”)

formed AMB Property Corporation, a wholly owned

subsidiary, and merged with and into the Company

(the “Merger”) in exchange for 4,746,616 shares of the

Company’s Common Stock. In addition, the Company

and the Operating Partnership acquired, through a series

of mergers and other transactions, 31.8 million rentable

square feet of industrial property and 6.3 million rentable

square feet of retail property in exchange for 65,022,185

shares of the Company’s Common Stock, 2,542,163

limited partner interests (“LP Units”) in the Operating

Partnership, the assumption of debt and, to a limited

extent, cash. The net assets of the Predecessor and the

properties acquired with Common Stock were contributed

to the Operating Partnership in exchange for 69,768,801

LP Units. The purchase method of accounting was applied

to the acquisition of the properties. Collectively, the

Merger and the other formation transactions described

above are referred to as the “Formation Transactions.”

On November 26, 1997, the Company completed

its IPO of 16,100,000 shares of Common Stock, $0.01

par value per share (the “Common Stock”), for $21.00 

approximately $338,100. The net proceeds of approxi-

mately $300,032 were used to repay indebtedness, to

purchase interests from certain investors who elected

not to receive shares or units in connection with the

Formation Transactions, to fund property acquisitions,

and for general corporate working capital requirements.

As of December 31, 1998, the Company owned 

an approximate 95.1% general partner interest in the

Operating Partnership. The remaining 4.9% limited

partner interest is owned by nonaffiliated investors. 

For local law purposes, properties in certain states are

owned through limited partnerships and limited liabil-

ity companies owned 99% by the Operating Partnership

and 1% by a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

The ownership of such properties through such entities

does not materially affect the Company’s overall owner-

ship of the interests in the properties. As the sole gen-

eral partner of the Operating Partnership, the Company

has the full, exclusive and complete responsibility and

discretion in the day-to-day management and control

of the Operating Partnership.

In connection with the Formation Transactions, 

the Operating Partnership formed AMB Investment

Management, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“AMB

Investment Management”). The Operating Partnership

purchased 100% of AMB Investment Management’s

non-voting preferred stock (representing a 95% eco-

nomic interest therein). Certain current and former

executive officers of the Company and an officer of

AMB Investment Management collectively purchased

100% of the Investment Management Subsidiary’s vot-

ing common stock (representing a 5% economic inter-

est therein). The Operating Partnership accounts for 

its investment in AMB Investment Management using

the equity method of accounting. AMB Investment

Management was formed to succeed to the Predecessor’s

investment management business of providing real estate

investment management services on a fee basis to clients.

The Operating Partnership also owns 100% of the non-

voting preferred stock of Headlands Realty Corporation,

a Maryland corporation (representing a 95% economic

interest therein). Certain current and former executive

officers of the Company and an officer of Headlands

Realty Corporation collectively own 100% of the voting

common stock of Headlands Realty Corporation (repre-

senting a 5% economic interest therein). Headlands

Realty Corporation invests in properties and interests

in entities that engage in the management, leasing and

development of properties and similar activities.

29

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a n d   s q u a r e   f e e t   d a t a )

As of December 31, 1998, the Company owned 

(the commencement of operations as a fully integrated

582 industrial buildings (the “Industrial Properties”) and

real estate company) to December 31, 1997 and the

38 retail centers (the “Retail Properties”) located in 30

results of the Company’s Predecessor, an investment

markets throughout the United States. The Industrial

manager, for the period from January 1, 1997 to

Properties, principally warehouse distribution buildings,

November 25, 1997. The consolidated financial state-

encompass approximately 56.6 million rentable square

ments for 1998 represent the results of operations of

feet and, as of December 31, 1998, were 96.0% leased 

the Company for the year ended December 31, 1998.

to over 1,600 tenants. The Retail Properties, principally

grocer-anchored community shopping centers, encom-

Investments in real estate. Investments in real

pass approximately 7.0 million rentable square feet and,

estate are stated at the lower of depreciated cost or net

as of the same date, were 94.6% leased to over 900 ten-

realizable value. Net realizable value for financial

ants. The Industrial Properties and the Retail Properties

reporting purposes is reviewed for impairment on a

collectively are referred to as the “Properties.”

property-by-property basis whenever events or changes

N O T E   2 :

Summary of Significant 
Accounting Policies

Generally accepted accounting principles. These

consolidated financial statements have been prepared

in accordance with generally accepted accounting prin-

ciples using the accrual method of accounting. The

preparation of financial statements in conformity with

generally accepted accounting principles requires man-

agement to make estimates and assumptions that affect

the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclo-

sure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the

financial statements and the reported amounts of rev-

enues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual

in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a

property may not be recoverable. Impairment is recog-

nized when estimated expected future cash flows

(undiscounted and without interest charges) are less

than the carrying amount of the property. To the

extent an impairment has occurred, the excess of the

carrying amount of the property over its estimated fair

value will be charged to income. As of December 31,

1998, we believe that there were no impairments of the

carrying values of the Properties.

Depreciation and amortization are calculated using

the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives

of the investments. The estimated lives are as follows:

Land improvements
Buildings and improvements
Tenant improvements and 

5 to 40 years
5 to 40 years

results could differ from those estimates.

leasing costs

Term of the related lease

Principles of consolidation. The accompanying

The cost of buildings and improvements includes

consolidated financial statements include the financial

the purchase price of the property or interest in prop-

position, results of operations and cash flows of the

erty, legal fees and acquisition costs, and interest, prop-

Company, its wholly owned qualified REIT subsidiaries,

erty taxes, and other costs incurred during the period

the Operating Partnership, and twenty-one joint ventures

of construction.

(the “Joint Ventures”) in which the Company has a

Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are

controlling interest. The Company also has a 56.1%

charged to operations as incurred. Significant renova-

non-controlling limited partnership interest in one

tions or betterments that extend the economic useful

unconsolidated real estate joint venture which is

life of assets are capitalized.

accounted for under the equity method. Third-party

Project costs directly associated with the develop-

equity interests in the Operating Partnership and the

ment and construction of a real estate project are capi-

Joint Ventures are reflected as minority interests in the

talized as construction in progress. In addition, interest,

consolidated financial statements. All significant inter-

real estate taxes and other costs are capitalized during

company amounts have been eliminated.

the construction period.

Basis of presentation. The consolidated financial

Cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equiv-

statements of the Company for 1997 include the results

alents include cash held in financial institutions and

of operations of the Company, including property

other highly liquid short-term investments with original 

operations for the period from November 26, 1997

30

maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash

the Operating Partnership, the Series B Preferred Unit

equivalents as of December 31, 1997 and 1998 include

holders’ interest in the Operating Partnership, and the

restricted cash of $8,074 and $5,227, respectively, which

Series C Preferred Unit holders’ interest in a subsidiary of

represents amounts held in escrow in connection with

the Operating Partnership, as of and for the year ended

property purchases and capital improvements.

December 31, 1998.

Deferred financing. Costs incurred in connection

with financing are capitalized and amortized to inter-

Minority
Interest Liability

Minority 
Interest Share
of Net Income

est expense on a straight-line basis (which approxi-

Minority Interest – 

mates the effective interest method) over the term of

Joint Venture Partners

$018,012

$01,491

the related loan. As of December 31, 1997 and 1998,

Minority Interest – 

deferred financing fees were $871 and $7,318, respec-

tively, net of accumulated amortization of $29 and

$772, respectively. Such amounts are included in Other

Assets on the consolidated balance sheet.

Fair value of financial instruments. The

Company’s financial instruments include short-term

investments, accounts receivable, accounts payable,

accrued expenses, construction loans payable, mortgage

debt, secured debt, senior debt securities, unsecured

notes payable, and an unsecured credit facility. The fair

value of these instruments approximates its carrying or

contract values.

Debt premiums. In connection with the Formation

Transactions, the Company assumed certain secured

debt with an aggregate principal value of $517,031 and

a fair value of $535,613. The difference between the

principal value and the fair value was recorded as a

debt premium. The debt premium is being amortized

into interest expense over the term of the related debt

instrument using the effective interest method. As of

December 31, 1997 and 1998, the unamortized debt

premium was $18,286 and $15,217, respectively.

Minority interests. Minority interests in the

Company represent the limited partnership interests in

the Operating Partnership and interests held by certain

third parties in twenty-one real estate joint ventures that

are consolidated for financial reporting purposes. Such

investments are consolidated because 1) the Company

owns a majority interest, or 2) the Company holds sig-

nificant control over the entity through a 50% or greater

ownership interest combined with the ability to control

major operating decisions, such as approval of budgets,

selection of property managers and change in financing.

The following table distinguishes the minority inter-

est ownership held by certain Joint Venture Partners,

Institutional Alliance Partners, the limited partners in 

Institutional Alliance Partners

52,381

2,987

Minority Interest – 

Limited Partners in 
the Operating Partnership

Minority Interest – 

Series B Preferred Units 
(liquidation preference 
of $65,000)

Minority Interest – 

Series C Preferred Units 
(liquidation preference 
of $110,000)

86,638

4,884

62,259

779

105,734
$325,024

1,016
$11,157

Revenues. The Company, as a lessor, retains sub-

stantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership of

the Properties and accounts for its leases as operating

leases. Rental income is recognized on a straight-line

basis over the term of the leases.

Reimbursements from tenants for real estate taxes

and other recoverable operating expenses are recog-

nized as revenue in the period the applicable expenses

are incurred.

Investment management and other income.

Investment management income consists primarily of

professional fees generated from the Predecessors’ real

estate investment management services for periods

prior to the Formation Transactions and the Company’s

equity in the earnings of AMB Investment Management

for periods subsequent to the Formation Transactions.

Other income consists primarily of interest income on

cash and cash equivalents.

Investment management expenses. Investment

management expenses represent the operating expenses

of the Predecessor for periods prior to November 26,

1997 and consist of salaries and benefits and other

management related expenses.

31

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a n d   s q u a r e   f e e t   d a t a )

Reclassifications. Certain items in the consolidated

The following summarizes the condensed results of

financial statements for prior periods have been reclas-

operations of the properties held for divestiture for the

sified to conform with current classifications with no

period from November 26, 1997 to December 31, 1997

effect on results of operations.

and for the year ended December 31, 1998:

to these working capital distributions. Such amount was

Secured debt, varying 

N O T E   3 :  

Transactions with 
Affiliates

As discussed in Note 1, the Operating Partnership

formed AMB Investment Management for the purpose

of carrying on the operations of the Predecessor. The

Company and AMB Investment Management have an

agreement that allows for the sharing of certain costs

and employees. Additionally, the Company provides

AMB Investment Management with certain acquisi-

tion-related services.

As part of the Formation Transactions, the Operat-

ing Partnership was required to pay an amount equal

to the net working capital balances at November 25, 1997

of the Predecessor and the acquired Properties to the

owners of said entities. As of December 31, 1997, the

Company owed approximately $37,808 to owners related

repaid in full in early 1998.

The Company and AMB Investment Management

share common office space under lease obligations of 

an affiliate of the Predecessor. Such lease obligations 

are charged to the Company and AMB Investment

Management at cost. For the years ended December 31,

1997, and 1998, the Company paid approximately $700

and $1,160, respectively, for occupancy costs related to

the lease obligations of the affiliate.

N O T E   4 :  

Property Held for 
Divestiture

The Company has determined to focus exclusively

on properties that meet its strategic objectives. Therefore,

as of December 31, 1998, the Company had decided to

divest itself of four industrial buildings and four retail

centers. As of December 31, 1998, the divestiture of the

properties is subject to negotiation of acceptable terms

and other customary conditions.

32

Income
Property operating expenses
Net operating income

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

$01,406
370
$01,036

$14,851
3,626
$11,225

As of December 31,1998, the net carrying value of

the properties held for divestiture was $115,050, and two

of the retail centers were encumbered by secured debt of

$42,615. The net proceeds will be used to acquire addi-

tional properties and pay down certain debts.

N O T E   5 .

Debt

As of December 31, 1997 and 1998, debt, excluding

unamortized debt premiums, consists of the following:

coupon interest rates from 
4.00% to 10.38%, due 
April 1999 to April 2014

Unsecured senior debt 
securities, weighted 
average interest rate of 
7.18%, due June 2008, 
2015, and 2018

Unsecured credit facility, 

variable interest at LIBOR 
plus 90 to 120 basis points 
(6.10% at December 31, 1998), 
due November 2000

Total Debt

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

$0,517,366

$0,718,979

–

400,000

150,000
$0,667,366

234,000
$1,352,979

Secured debt generally requires monthly principal

and interest payments. The secured debt is secured by

deeds of trust on certain Properties. As of December 31,

1998, the total gross investment value of those Properties

secured by debt was $1,458,652. All of the secured debt

bear interest at fixed rates, except for two loans with an

aggregate principal amount of $9,155, which bear inter-

est at a variable rate. The secured debt has various finan-

cial and non-financial covenants. Additionally, certain of

the secured debt is cross-collateralized.

Interest on the senior debt securities is payable

semiannually in each June and December commencing

December 1998. The 2015 notes are putable and callable

in June 2005. The senior debt securities are subject to

1998, respectively. These amounts are included as rental

various financial and non-financial covenants.

income and operating expenses in the accompanying

The Company has a $500,000 unsecured revolving

consolidated statements of operations. Certain of the

credit agreement (the “Credit Facility”) with Morgan

leases also provide for the payment of additional rent

Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as agent, and a

based on a percentage of the tenant’s revenues. For 

syndicate of twelve other banks. The Credit Facility has

the period from November 26, 1997 to December 31,

an original term of three years and is subject to a fee that

1997 and for the year ended December 31, 1998, the

accrues on the daily average undrawn funds, which varies

Company recognized percentage rent revenues of $185

between 15 and 25 basis points of the undrawn funds

and $1,870, respectively. Some leases contain options to

based on the Company’s credit rating. The Credit Facility

renew. No individual tenant accounts for greater than

has various financial and non-financial covenants.

2% of rental revenues.

Capitalized interest related to construction projects

for the period from November 26, 1997 to December 31,

1997, was $448 and for the year ended December 31,

1998 was $7,192. There was no capitalized interest for

periods prior to the Formation Transactions.

The scheduled maturities of the Company’s total

debt, excluding unamortized debt premiums, as of

December 31, 1998 are as follows:

U n s e c u r e d
S e n i o r
D e b t
S e c u r i t i e s

U n s e c u r e d
C r e d i t
F a c i l i t y

S e c u r e d
D e b t

N O T E   7 :

Income Taxes

The Company elected to be taxed as a REIT under

the Code commencing with its taxable year ended

December 31, 1997. To qualify as a REIT, the Company

must meet a number of organizational and operational

requirements, including a requirement that it currently

distribute at least 95% of its taxable income to its stock-

To t a l

holders. It is management’s intention to adhere to these

1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
Thereafter

$0,014,061 $0,000,00– $0,000,00– $0,014,061
253,833
42,560
68,849
136,798
836,878
$0,718,979 $0,400,000 $0,234,000 $1,352,979

19,833
42,560
68,849
136,798
436,878

234,000
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
400,000

N O T E   6 :

Leasing Activity

Future minimum rental income due under non-

cancelable leases with tenants in effect at December 31,

1998, is as follows:

1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
Thereafter

$0,329,322
287,771
239,178
189,259
142,411
536,573
$1,724,514

In addition to minimum rental payments, certain

tenants pay reimbursements for their pro rata share of

specified operating expenses, which amounted to $5,267

and $68,071 for the period from November 26, 1997 to

December 31, 1997 and for the year ended December 31, 

requirements and maintain the Company’s REIT status.

As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to

corporate level federal income tax on net income it dis-

tributes currently to its stockholders. As such, no provi-

sion for federal income taxes has been included in the

accompanying consolidated financial statements. If the

Company fails to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year,

it will be subject to federal income taxes at regular cor-

porate rates (including any applicable alternative mini-

mum tax) and may not be able to qualify as a REIT for

four subsequent taxable years. Even if the Company qual-

ifies for taxation as a REIT, the Company may be subject

to certain state and local taxes on its income and prop-

erty and to federal income and excise taxes on its undis-

tributed taxable income.

For the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1998,

0% of the dividends paid to common stockholders

represented a return of capital for income tax purposes.

Prior to the Merger, the Predecessor conducted 

its business as an S corporation, and was not subject to

federal income taxes under Subchapter S of the Internal

Revenue Code. Under this election federal income taxes

were paid by the stockholders of the Predecessor.

33

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a n d   s q u a r e   f e e t   d a t a )

N O T E   8 :

intrinsic value based method of accounting. Under this

Stockholders’ Equity

On July 27, 1998, the Company sold 4,000,000

shares of 8.5% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred

Stock at $25.00 per share for $100,000 in an underwrit-

method, compensation cost is the excess, if any, of the

quoted market price of the stock at the date of grant

over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the

stock. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been

recognized for the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, as

ten public offering. These shares are redeemable solely at

of December 31, 1998.

the option of the Company on or after July 27, 2003.

The net proceeds of $96,100 (after deducting underwriters’

discounts and commissions and offering costs) from

the offering were contributed to the Operating Partner-

ship in exchange for 4,000,000 Series A preferred units

with terms identical to the Series A Preferred Stock. The

Operating Partnership used these proceeds to repay bor-

rowings under the Credit Facility.

On December 4, 1998, the Company and the

Operating Partnership declared a quarterly cash distri-

bution of $0.3425 per common share and operating

partnership unit, payable on January 15, 1999 to stock-

As permitted by SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-

based Compensation”, the Company has not changed

its method of accounting for stock options but has

provided the additional required disclosures. Had com-

pensation cost for the Company’s stock-based compen-

sation plans been determined based on the fair value at

the grant dates for awards under those plans consistent

with the method of SFAS No. 123, the Company’s pro

forma net income available to common stockholders

would have been reduced by $1,767 and pro forma basic

and diluted earnings per share would have been reduced

to $1.25 and $1.24, respectively, for the year ended

holders of record on December 31, 1998. On December 4,

December 31, 1998.

1998, the Company declared a cash dividend of $0.53125

per share on its Series A Preferred Stock, and the Operat-

ing Partnership declared a cash distribution of $0.53125

per unit of its Series A Preferred Units, payable on Janu-

ary 15, 1999 to stockholders and unit holders of record

as of December 31,1998.

N O T E   9 :

Stock Incentive Plan and 
401(k) Plan

The fair value of each option grant was estimated

at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-

pricing model with the following assumptions used for

grants in 1997 and 1998, respectively: dividend yield 

of 6.52% and 6.31%, expected volatility of 18.75% and

23.10%, risk-free interest rate of 5.86% and 4.94%, and

expected lives of 10 years for both years.

Following is a summary of the option activity for

the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1998:

Stock incentive plan. In November 1997, the

Company established a Stock Option and Incentive Plan

(the “Stock Incentive Plan”) for the purpose of attracting

and retaining eligible officers, directors and employees.

The Company has reserved for issuance 5,750,000 shares

of Common Stock under the Stock Incentive Plan. As of

December 31, 1998, the Company had granted 4,384,037

non-qualified options, to certain directors, officers and

employees. Each option is exchangeable for one share

of the Company’s Common Stock and has a weighted

Outstanding, 11/25/97
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding, 12/31/97
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding, 12/31/98

Options exercisable 

S h a r e s
U n d e r
O p t i o n
( 0 0 0 )

–
3,154
–
(10)
3,144
1,508
–
(268)
4,384

W e i g h t e d
A v e r a g e
E x e r c i s e
P r i c e

–
$21.00
–
–
21.00
21.69
–
–
21.40

R e m a i n i n g
C o n t r a c t u a l
L i f e

–
10 years
–
–
10 years
10 years
–
–
9.4 years

average exercise price equal to $21.22. Each option’s

at year-end

622

$ 21.00

exercise price is equal to the Company’s market price at

Fair value of options 

the date of grant. The options had an original ten-year

granted during the year

$2.43

term and vest pro rata in annual installments over a

three or four-year period from the date of grant.

In 1997, under the Stock Incentive Plan, the

The Company applies APB Opinion No. 25,

Company sold 5,712 restricted shares of its Common

“Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” and related

Stock to certain independent directors for $0.01 per

interpretations in accounting for its Stock Incentive

share in cash. In 1998, under the Stock Incentive Plan,

Plan. Opinion 25 measures compensation cost using the

the Company issued 43,007 restricted shares to certain

34

officers of the Company as part of the Performance

Pay Program. The restricted shares are subject to a

repurchase right held by the Company, which lapses

one-third of such shares annually. The repurchase

right lapses fully on January 1, 2002.

401(K) Plan. In November 1997, the Company

established a Section 401(k) Savings/Retirement Plan 

(the “Section 401(k) Plan”), which is a continuation of

the Section 401(k) plan of the Predecessor, to cover eligi-

ble employees of the Company and any designated affili-

ate. The Section 401(k) Plan permits eligible employees

of the Company to defer up to 10% of their annual

compensation, subject to certain limitations imposed by

the Code. The employees’ elective deferrals are imme-

diately vested and non-forfeitable upon contribution

to the Section 401(k) Plan. The Company matches the

employee contributions to the Section 401(k)Plan in an

amount equal to 50% of the first 3.5% of annual com-

pensation deferred by each employee and may also

make discretionary contributions to the plan. As of

December 31, 1997 and 1998, the Company’s accrual

for 401(k) match was $140 and $153, respectively. Such

amounts were included in Other liabilities on the con-

solidated balance sheets.

Except for the Section 401(k) Plan, the Company

offers no other post-retirement or post-employment

benefits to its employees.

N O T E   1 1 :

Commitments and 
Contingencies

Litigation. In the normal course of business, from

time to time, the Company is involved in legal actions

relating to the ownership and operations of its Properties.

In management’s opinion, the liabilities, if any, that may

ultimately result from such legal actions are not expected

to have a materially adverse effect on the consolidated

financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of

the Company.

Environmental matters. The Company follows

the policy of monitoring its properties for the presence

of hazardous or toxic substances. The Company is not

aware of any environmental liability with respect to the

Properties that would have a material adverse effect on

the Company’s business, assets or results of operations.

There can be no assurance that such a material envi-

ronmental liability does not exist. The existence of any

such material environmental liability would have an

adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations

and cash flow.

General uninsured losses. The Company carries

comprehensive liability, fire, flood, environmental,

extended coverage and rental loss insurance with policy

specifications, limits and deductibles customarily carried

N O T E   1 0 :

for similar properties. There are, however, certain types

Supplemental Information to 
Statement of Cash Flows

of extraordinary losses that may be either uninsurable,

or not economically insurable. Certain of the Properties

are located in areas that are subject to earthquake activ-

Ye a r s   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

ity; the Company has therefore obtained limited earth-

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

quake insurance. Should an uninsured loss occur, the

Company could lose its investment in, and anticipated

profits and cash flows, from a property.

Cash paid for interest $(,000,00– $(0,002,509

$0,068,209

Non-cash transactions:

Acquisitions of 
properties

Assumption of debt
Cash acquired
Other assumed assets 

and liabilities
Minority interest’s 
contribution, 
including units 
issued

Shares issued

Net cash paid, net of 

$(,000,00–
–
–

$(2,438,634
(717,613)
(43,978)

$0,901,284
(221,017)
–

–

–
–

(13,862)

–

(64,358)
(1,370,391)

(115,963)
–

cash acquired

$(,000,00–

$(0,228,432

$0,564,304

35

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

( I n   t h o u s a n d s , e x c e p t   s h a r e   a n d   s q u a r e   f e e t   d a t a )

N O T E   1 2 :

Quarterly Financial Data

Selected quarterly financial data for 1998 is as follows (unaudited):

Revenues
Income from operations before minority interest
Minority interests’ share of net income
Net income
Preferred stock dividends
Net income available to common stockholders

Net income per common share:

Basic(1)

Diluted

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

Q u a r t e r

M a r c h   3 1

J u n e   3 0

S e p t e m b e r   3 0

D e c e m b e r   3 1

Ye a r

$075,785
29,188
(1,282)
$027,906
–
$027,906

$085,014
30,382
(2,404)
$027,978
–
$027,978

$094,061
31,802
(2,930)
$028,872
(1,514)
$027,358

$104,027
32,378
(4,541)
$027,837
(2,125)
$025,712

$358,887
123,750
(11,157)
$112,593
(3,639)
$108,954

$0000.33

$0000.32

$0000.33

$0000.32

$0000.32

$0000.32

$0000.30

$0000.30

$0001.27

$0001.26

Basic

Diluted

85,874,513

85,874,513

85,874,513

85,881,992

85,876,383

86,284,736

86,222,175

86,251,857

86,181,937

86,235,176

(1) The sum of quarterly financial data varies from the annual data due to rounding.

N O T E   1 3 :

Segment Information

The Company has two reportable segments: Industrial Properties and Retail Properties. The Company believes that

the most relevant information about the way that its business is managed is through disclosure of certain data at the

operating division level. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of

significant accounting policies. Significant information used by the Company for the reportable segments is as follows:

Rental revenues

1996
1997
1998

Property net operating income and 
contribution to FFO (1)

1996
1997
1998

Investment in properties

1996
1997
1998(2)

I n d u s t r i a l
P r o p e r t i e s

R e t a i l
P r o p e r t i e s

To t a l
P r o p e r t i e s

$000,00–
16,898
248,134

$000,00–
9,567
106,524

$000,00–
26,465
354,658

–
11,056
181,832

–
6,510
76,752

–
17,566
258,584

–
1,639,321
2,574,940

–
803,678
794,120

–
2,442,999
3,369,060

(1) Property net operating income (NOI) is defined as rental revenue, including reimbursements and straight-line rents, less property level operating expenses.

(2) Excludes net properties held for divestiture of $115,050. See Note 4.

36

The Company uses property net operating income and FFO as operating performance measures. The following are
reconciliations between total reportable segment revenue, property net operating income and funds from operations
(“FFO”) contribution to consolidated revenues, net income and FFO:

1 9 9 6

1 9 9 7

1 9 9 8

Revenues
Total rental revenues for reportable segments
Investment management and other income
Total consolidated revenues
Net Income
Property net operating income for reportable segments
Investment management and other income
Less:

General and administrative
Interest expense
Depreciation and amortization
Investment management expenses
Minority interests

Net income
FFO(1)
Net Income
Minority interests’ share of net income
Real estate depreciation and amortization:
Total depreciation and amortization
Furniture, fixtures and equipment depreciation

FFO attributable to minority interests(2):

Institutional Alliance Partners
Other joint venture partners

Adjustments to derive FFO in unconsolidated joint venture(3):

Company’s share of net income
Company’s share of FFO

Preferred stock dividends
Series B & C preferred unit distributions
FFO

$000,00–
23,991
$023,991

$000,00–
23,991

–
–
–
16,851
137
$007,003

$007,003
137

–
–

–
–

–
–
–
–
$007,140

$026,465
29,597
$056,062

$017,566
29,597

1,197
3,528
4,195
19,358
657
$018,228

$354,658
4,229
$358,887

$258,584
4,229

11,929
69,670
57,464
–
11,157
$112,593

$018,228
657

$112,593
11,157

4,195
(37)

–
(218)

–
–
–
–
$022,825

57,464
(463)

(3,828)
(2,071)

(1,750)
2,739
(3,639)
(1,795)
$170,407

(1) Funds from Operations (“FFO”) is defined as income from operations before minority interest, gains or losses from sale of real estate and extraordinary

losses plus real estate depreciation and adjustment to derive our pro rata share of the FFO of unconsolidated joint ventures, less minority interests’ pro
rata share of the FFO of consolidated joint ventures and perpetual preferred stock dividends. In accordance with NAREIT White Paper on FFO, we
include the effects of straight-line rents in FFO.

(2) Represents FFO attributable to minority interests in consolidated joint ventures for the periods presented, which has been computed as minority interests’
share of net income before disposal of properties plus minority interests’ share of real estate-related depreciation and amortization of the consolidated
joint ventures for such periods. Such minority interests are not exchangeable into shares of Common Stock.

(3) Represents our pro rata share of FFO in unconsolidated joint ventures for the periods presented, which has been computed as our share of net income

plus our share of real estate-related depreciation and amortization of the unconsolidated joint venture for such periods.

N O T E   1 4 :

Subsequent Events

(unaudited)

On March 5, 1999, the Company and the Operat-

ing Partnership declared a quarterly cash distribution
of $0.35 per common share and operating partnership
unit, for the quarter ending March 31, 1999, payable
April 15, 1999 to stockholders and unitholders of record
as of March 31, 1999. On March 5, 1999, the Company
declared a cash dividend of $0.53125 per share on its
Series A Preferred Stock, and the Operating Partnership
declared a cash distribution of $0.53125 per unit on its
Series A Preferred Units, for the three month period end-
ing April 14, 1999, payable on April 15, 1999 to stock-
holders and unitholders of record as of March 31, 1999.

On March 9, 1999, the Company signed a series of

definitive agreements with BPP Retail, LLC (“BPP Retail”),
a co-investment entity between Burnham Pacific

Properties (“BPP”) and the California Public Employees’
Retirement System (“CalPERS”), pursuant to which BPP
Retail will acquire 28 retail shopping centers of the
Company, totaling 5.1 million square feet, for an aggre-
gate price of $663.4 million. BPP Retail will acquire the
centers in separate transactions, which are currently
expected to close on or about April 30, 1999, July 31,
1999 and December 1, 1999. In addition, the Company
has entered into a definitive agreement, subject to a
financing confirmation, with BPP, pursuant to which
BPP will acquire six additional retail centers, totaling
1.5 million square feet, for $284.4 million. Assuming
satisfaction or waiver of this condition, this trans-
action is currently expected to close by December 31,
1999. In connection with these transactions, the
Company has also granted CalPERS an option to pur-
chase up to 2,000,000 original issue shares of AMB’s
Common Stock for an exercise price of $25 per share
that may be exercised on or before March 31, 2000.

37

Report of Independent Public Accountants

To the Board of Directors of 
AMB Property Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to

balance sheets of AMB Property Corporation and sub-

above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial

sidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the

position of AMB Property Corporation and subsidiaries as

related consolidated statements of income, stockhold-

of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the results of their

ers’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years

operations and their cash flows for each of the three years

in the period ended December 31, 1998. These finan-

in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity

cial statements and the schedule referred to below are

with generally accepted accounting principles.

the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our

Our audits were made for the purpose of forming

responsibility is to express an opinion on these finan-

an opinion on the basic financial statements taken as a

cial statements and the schedule based on our audits.

whole. The schedule listed in the index to the financial

We conducted our audits in accordance with

statements is presented for purposes of complying with

generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards

the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and 

require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain

is not a required part of the basic financial statements.

reasonable assurance about whether the financial

This schedule has been subjected to the auditing proce-

statements are free of material misstatement. An audit

dures applied in the audits of the basic financial state-

includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting

ments and, in our opinion, fairly states in all material

the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.

respects the financial data required to be set forth

An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles

therein in relation to the basic financial statements

used and significant estimates made by management, as

taken as a whole.

well as evaluating the overall financial statement presen-

tation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable

basis for our opinion.

San Francisco, California

February 2, 1999

38

AMB Directors and Officers

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

Independent Directors

Daniel H. Case, III
President & CEO,
Hambrecht & Quist Group

Robert H. Edelstein
Co-Chairman,
Fisher Center for Real Estate,
UC Berkeley

Lynn M. Sedway
Principal,
Sedway Group

Jeffrey L. Skelton
President & CEO,
Symphony Asset Management

Thomas W. Tusher
Former President & COO,
Levi Strauss & Co.

Caryl B. Welborn
Commercial Real Estate
Attorney

Executive Officers

Douglas D. Abbey*
Chairman, AMB Investment
Management, Inc.

Hamid R. Moghadam*
President & 
Chief Executive Officer

T. Robert Burke*
Chairman of the Board

W. Blake Baird
Chief Investment Officer,
Managing Director

Luis A. Belmonte
Managing Director
Industrial Division

Michael A. Coke
Chief Financial Officer,
Senior Vice President

John H. Diserens
Managing Director
Retail Division

Bruce H. Freedman
Managing Director
Industrial Division

David S. Fries
Chief Administration
Officer, General Counsel, 
Managing Director

Barbara J. Linn
President & Chief Executive
Officer, AMB Investment
Management, Inc.

John T. Roberts
Director of Capital Markets,
Senior Vice President

Craig A. Severance
Managing Director
New Initiatives & Technology

*Director

39

Shareholder Information

A M B   P R O P E R T Y   C O R P O R A T I O N

Corporate Headquarters

AMB Property Corporation

505 Montgomery Street, 5th Floor

San Francisco, CA 94111

Tel: 415-394-9000

Fax: 415-394-9001

Boston Office

AMB Property Corporation

60 State Street, Suite 3700

Boston, MA 02109

Tel: 617-531-9000

Fax: 617-531-9001

Investor Relations & 
Shareholder Inquiries

Tel: 415-394-9000 ext. 250

Fax: 415-394-9001

E-mail: ir@ambco.com

Transfer Agent

Boston Equiserve

1-800-730-6001

Counsel

Latham & Watkins 

San Francisco, CA

Auditors

Arthur Andersen LLP

San Francisco, CA

Stock Listing

New York Stock Exchange Symbol: AMB

10-K Report

A copy of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K

as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission

may be obtained by contacting Investor Relations.

40

AMB Website

http://www.amb.com

News Releases

News releases can be viewed on our website.

Annual Meeting

Shareholders of AMB Property Corporation are invited

to attend the Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be

held at 9:00 a.m.

Friday, May 7, 1999 

The Ritz Carlton, San Francisco

600 Stockton at California Street 

Tel: 415-296-7465

Professional Associations

International Council of Shopping Centers

National Association of Industrial 

and Office Properties

National Association of Real Estate 

Investment Managers

National Association of Real Estate 

Investment Trusts

National Council of Real Estate 

Investment Fiduciaries

National Investor Relations Institute

Pension Real Estate Association

Real Estate Investment Advisory Council

Society of Industrial and Office Realtors

Urban Land Institute

Market Information

The Company’s initial public offering was completed 

in November 1997 at $21 per share. Prior to November

1997, no public market existed for the Company’s

common stock.

The following table sets forth, for the periods

indicated, the high and low closing prices for the

Company’s common stock as reported by the New

York Stock Exchange.

Ye a r   E n d e d   D e c e m b e r   3 1 ,

H i g h

L o w

1997 (from November 21)
1998 

$251⁄8
$2513⁄16

$221⁄4
$2015⁄16

AMB: a commitment to
shareholder value

AMB has distinguished itself as a leader by practicing shareholder-friendly

corporate governance. All of our directors serve annual, not staggered,

terms, and each of our six independent directors is compensated solely

through annual stock option grants. Our goal is to ensure that the Company

is managed in a way that maximizes value for all AMB shareholders. To that

end, we have also chosen not to enact any poison pill or “shareholder rights”

plan, and our corporate by-laws do not include the anti-takeover language

usually adopted by other Maryland corporations. In addition, in March 1999,

our Board of Directors adopted a provision that prohibits AMB from repricing

stock options. Our approach is atypical, but our reasoning is simple: AMB is

the property of its shareholders, and nothing should hinder a full and fair

return on their investment.

The following are trademarks of AMB: Strategic Alliance Program, Development Alliance Program, UPREIT Alliance Program,
Institutional Alliance Program, Management Alliance Program, Customer Alliance Program, and Broker Alliance Program.
41

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AMB PROPERTY CORPORATION
Building Alliances. Building Value.™

505  Montgomery  Street,    5th  floor,    San  Francisco,  CA  94111

Telephone:  415-394-9000      Fax:  415-394-9001      Website:  www.amb.com