Plan Approval of Annual Incentive Comp. We are very pleased that Mr. Kenneth I. Chenault, president and chief operating officer of American Express Company, who was elected to the Board in October 1998, is a nominee for the first time. At this year's Annual Meeting you will be asked to approve, among other things, certain amendments to IBM's Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares. In addition, you will also be asked to approve IBM's 1999 Long-Term Performance Plan, which provides for incentive and other awards that are designed to provide participants with an increased proprietary interest in our Company. Your vote on these matters is important and we appreciate your continued support.
Stockholders of record can vote their shares by using the Internet or the telephone.
Instructions for using these convenient services are set forth on the enclosed proxy card. Of course, you also may vote your shares by marking your votes on the enclosed proxy card, signing and dating it, and mailing it in the enclosed envelope. If you will need special assistance at the meeting because of a disability, please contact the Office of the Secretary, Armonk, N.Y. 10504. Ratification of Appointment of Auditors Amendment of the Cert. Plan Approval of Annual Incentive Comp.