Document:

Exhibit 4.3

 

 

EP ENERGY LLC

and

 

EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.

 

as Issuers

 

and the Subsidiary Guarantors party hereto from time to time

 

6.375% Senior Notes due 2023

 

 

INDENTURE

 

Dated as of May 28, 2015

 

 

and

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association
 as Trustee

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Page
    
	
 
    
	
ARTICLE I
    
	
 
    
	
DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 1.01
    	
Definitions
    	
1
    
	
SECTION 1.02
    	
Other Definitions
    	
45
    
	
SECTION 1.03
    	
Rules of   Construction
    	
47
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE II
    
	
 
    
	
THE NOTES
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 2.01
    	
Amount of Notes
    	
47
    
	
SECTION 2.02
    	
Form and Dating
    	
48
    
	
SECTION 2.03
    	
Execution and   Authentication
    	
49
    
	
SECTION 2.04
    	
Registrar and Paying   Agent
    	
50
    
	
SECTION 2.05
    	
Paying Agent to Hold   Money in Trust
    	
50
    
	
SECTION 2.06
    	
Holder Lists
    	
50
    
	
SECTION 2.07
    	
Transfer and Exchange
    	
51
    
	
SECTION 2.08
    	
Replacement Notes
    	
52
    
	
SECTION 2.09
    	
Outstanding Notes
    	
52
    
	
SECTION 2.10
    	
Cancellation
    	
53
    
	
SECTION 2.11
    	
Defaulted Interest
    	
53
    
	
SECTION 2.12
    	
CUSIP   Numbers, ISINs, Etc.
    	
53
    
	
SECTION 2.13
    	
Calculation of   Principal Amount of Notes
    	
53
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE III
    
	
 
    
	
REDEMPTION
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 3.01
    	
Redemption
    	
53
    
	
SECTION 3.02
    	
Applicability of   Article
    	
54
    
	
SECTION 3.03
    	
Notices to Trustee
    	
54
    
	
SECTION 3.04
    	
Selection of Notes to   Be Redeemed
    	
54
    
	
SECTION 3.05
    	
Notice of Optional   Redemption
    	
54
    
	
SECTION 3.06
    	
Effect of Notice of   Redemption
    	
55
    
	
SECTION 3.07
    	
Deposit of Redemption   Price
    	
56
    
	
SECTION 3.08
    	
Notes Redeemed in Part
    	
56
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE IV
    
	
 
    
	
COVENANTS
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 4.01
    	
Payment of Notes
    	
56
    
	
SECTION 4.02
    	
Reports and Other   Information
    	
56
    
	
SECTION 4.03
    	
Limitation on   Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Disqualified Stock and Preferred   Stock
    	
59
    
	
SECTION 4.04
    	
Limitation on   Restricted Payments
    	
66
    
	
SECTION 4.05
    	
Dividend and Other   Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries
    	
73
    

 

i

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 (cont’d)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Page
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 4.06
    	
Asset Sales
    	
75
    
	
SECTION 4.07
    	
Transactions with Affiliates
    	
79
    
	
SECTION 4.08
    	
Change of Control
    	
82
    
	
SECTION 4.09
    	
Compliance Certificate
    	
84
    
	
SECTION 4.10
    	
Further Instruments and   Acts
    	
84
    
	
SECTION 4.11
    	
Future Subsidiary   Guarantors
    	
84
    
	
SECTION 4.12
    	
Liens
    	
84
    
	
SECTION 4.13
    	
[Intentionally Omitted]
    	
85
    
	
SECTION 4.14
    	
Maintenance of Office   or Agency
    	
85
    
	
SECTION 4.15
    	
Covenant Suspension
    	
86
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE V
    
	
 
    
	
SUCCESSOR COMPANY
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 5.01
    	
When Issuers   May Merge or Transfer Assets
    	
87
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE VI
    
	
 
    
	
DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 6.01
    	
Events of Default
    	
89
    
	
SECTION 6.02
    	
Acceleration
    	
91
    
	
SECTION 6.03
    	
Other Remedies
    	
91
    
	
SECTION 6.04
    	
Waiver of Past Defaults
    	
92
    
	
SECTION 6.05
    	
Control by Majority
    	
92
    
	
SECTION 6.06
    	
Limitation on Suits
    	
92
    
	
SECTION 6.07
    	
Rights of the Holders   to Receive Payment
    	
93
    
	
SECTION 6.08
    	
Collection Suit by   Trustee
    	
93
    
	
SECTION 6.09
    	
Trustee May File   Proofs of Claim
    	
93
    
	
SECTION 6.10
    	
Priorities
    	
93
    
	
SECTION 6.11
    	
Undertaking for Costs
    	
94
    
	
SECTION 6.12
    	
Waiver of Stay or   Extension Laws
    	
94
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE VII
    
	
 
    
	
TRUSTEE
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 7.01
    	
Duties of Trustee
    	
94
    
	
SECTION 7.02
    	
Rights of Trustee
    	
96
    
	
SECTION 7.03
    	
Individual Rights of   Trustee
    	
97
    
	
SECTION 7.04
    	
Trustee’s Disclaimer
    	
97
    
	
SECTION 7.05
    	
Notice of Defaults
    	
98
    
	
SECTION 7.06
    	
Reports by Trustee to   the Holders
    	
98
    
	
SECTION 7.07
    	
Compensation and   Indemnity
    	
98
    
	
SECTION 7.08
    	
Replacement of Trustee
    	
99
    
	
SECTION 7.09
    	
Successor Trustee by   Merger
    	
100
    
	
SECTION 7.10
    	
Eligibility;   Disqualification
    	
101
    

 

ii

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 (cont’d)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Page
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 7.11
    	
Preferential Collection   of Claims Against the Issuers
    	
101
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE VIII
    
	
 
    
	
DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 8.01
    	
Discharge of Liability   on Notes; Defeasance
    	
101
    
	
SECTION 8.02
    	
Conditions to   Defeasance
    	
102
    
	
SECTION 8.03
    	
Application of Trust   Money
    	
104
    
	
SECTION 8.04
    	
Repayment to Issuer
    	
104
    
	
SECTION 8.05
    	
Indemnity for U.S.   Government Obligations
    	
104
    
	
SECTION 8.06
    	
Reinstatement
    	
104
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE IX
    
	
 
    
	
AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 9.01
    	
Without Consent of the   Holders
    	
105
    
	
SECTION 9.02
    	
With Consent of the   Holders
    	
106
    
	
SECTION 9.03
    	
Revocation and Effect   of Consents and Waivers
    	
107
    
	
SECTION 9.04
    	
Notation on or Exchange   of Notes
    	
107
    
	
SECTION 9.05
    	
Trustee to Sign   Amendments
    	
107
    
	
SECTION 9.06
    	
Additional Voting Terms;   Calculation of Principal Amount
    	
108
    
	
SECTION 9.07
    	
Compliance with the   Trust Indenture Act
    	
108
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE X
    
	
 
    
	
[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]
    
	
 
    
	
ARTICLE XI
    
	
 
    
	
[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]
    
	
 
    
	
ARTICLE XII
    
	
 
    
	
GUARANTEE
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 12.01
    	
Guarantee
    	
108
    
	
SECTION 12.02
    	
Limitation on Liability
    	
110
    
	
SECTION 12.03
    	
[Intentionally Omitted]
    	
111
    
	
SECTION 12.04
    	
Successors and Assigns
    	
111
    
	
SECTION 12.05
    	
No Waiver
    	
111
    
	
SECTION 12.06
    	
Modification
    	
112
    
	
SECTION 12.07
    	
Execution of   Supplemental Indenture for Future Guarantors
    	
112
    
	
SECTION 12.08
    	
Non-Impairment
    	
112
    

 

iii

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 (cont’d)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Page
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
ARTICLE XIII
    
	
 
    
	
[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]
    
	
 
    
	
ARTICLE XIV
    
	
 
    
	
MISCELLANEOUS
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
SECTION 14.01
    	
Trust Indenture Act   Controls
    	
112
    
	
SECTION 14.02
    	
Notices
    	
113
    
	
SECTION 14.03
    	
Communication by the   Holders with Other Holders
    	
114
    
	
SECTION 14.04
    	
Certificate and Opinion   as to Conditions Precedent
    	
114
    
	
SECTION 14.05
    	
Statements Required in   Certificate or Opinion
    	
114
    
	
SECTION 14.06
    	
When Notes Disregarded
    	
115
    
	
SECTION 14.07
    	
Rules by Trustee,   Paying Agent and Registrar
    	
115
    
	
SECTION 14.08
    	
Legal Holidays
    	
115
    
	
SECTION 14.09
    	
GOVERNING LAW
    	
115
    
	
SECTION 14.10
    	
No Recourse Against   Others
    	
115
    
	
SECTION 14.11
    	
Successors
    	
116
    
	
SECTION 14.12
    	
Multiple Originals
    	
116
    
	
SECTION 14.13
    	
Table of Contents;   Headings
    	
116
    
	
SECTION 14.14
    	
Indenture Controls
    	
116
    
	
SECTION 14.15
    	
Severability
    	
116
    
	
SECTION 14.16
    	
Waiver of Jury Trial
    	
116
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Appendix A 
    	
—                                   Provisions   Relating to Initial Notes and Additional Notes
    	
 
    

 

iv

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 (cont’d)

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

	
Exhibit A
    	
—
    	
Form of Initial Note
    
	
Exhibit B
    	
—
    	
Form of Exchange Note
    
	
Exhibit C
    	
—
    	
Form of Transferee Letter of Representation
    
	
Exhibit D
    	
—
    	
Form of Supplemental Indenture
    

 

v

 

CROSS-REFERENCE TABLE

 

	
TIA
    	
 
    	
Indenture
    
	
Section
    	
 
    	
Section
    
	
310
    	
(a)(1)
    	
 
    	
7.10
    
	
 
    	
(a)(2)
    	
 
    	
7.10
    
	
 
    	
(a)(3)
    	
 
    	
7.10
    
	
 
    	
(a)(4)
    	
 
    	
7.10
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
7.08; 7.10
    
	
 
    	
(c)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
311
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
7.11
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
7.11
    
	
 
    	
(c)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
312
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
2.06
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
14.03
    
	
 
    	
(c)
    	
 
    	
14.03
    
	
313
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
7.06
    
	
 
    	
(b)(1)
    	
 
    	
7.06
    
	
 
    	
(b)(2)
    	
 
    	
7.06
    
	
 
    	
(c)
    	
 
    	
7.06
    
	
 
    	
(d)
    	
 
    	
7.06
    
	
314
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
4.02; 4.09
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
 
    	
(c)(1)
    	
 
    	
14.04
    
	
 
    	
(c)(2)
    	
 
    	
14.04
    
	
 
    	
(c)(3)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
 
    	
(d)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
 
    	
(e)
    	
 
    	
14.05
    
	
 
    	
(f)
    	
 
    	
4.10
    
	
315
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
7.01
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
7.05
    
	
 
    	
(c)
    	
 
    	
7.01
    
	
 
    	
(d)
    	
 
    	
7.01
    
	
 
    	
(e)
    	
 
    	
6.11
    
	
316
    	
(a) (last sentence)
    	
 
    	
14.06
    
	
 
    	
(a)(1)(A)
    	
 
    	
6.05
    
	
 
    	
(a)(1)(B)
    	
 
    	
6.04
    
	
 
    	
(a)(2)
    	
 
    	
N.A.
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
6.07
    
	
317
    	
(a)(1)
    	
 
    	
6.08
    
	
 
    	
(a)(2)
    	
 
    	
6.09
    
	
 
    	
(b)
    	
 
    	
2.05
    
	
318
    	
(a)
    	
 
    	
14.01
    

 

N.A. Means Not Applicable.
 Note:                  This Cross-Reference Table shall not, for any purposes, be deemed to be part of this Indenture.

 

vi

 

INDENTURE, dated as of May 28, 2015, among EP ENERGY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, (together with its successors and assigns, “Holdings”), EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC., a Delaware corporation (together with its successors and assigns, the “Co-Issuer” and, together with Holdings, the “Issuers”), the Subsidiary Guarantors party hereto from time to time (as defined below) and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee (the “Trustee”).

 

Each party agrees as follows for the benefit of the other parties and for the equal and ratable benefit of the holders of (i) $800,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Issuers’ 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023 issued on the date hereof (the “Initial Notes”), (ii) Exchange Notes issued in exchange for the Initial Notes and (iii) Additional Notes issued from time to time (together with the Initial Notes and the Exchange Notes, the “Notes”):

 

ARTICLE I

 

DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

 

SECTION 1.01              Definitions.

 

“Acquired Business” means (i) all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of EP Energy L.L.C. (f/k/a EP Energy Corporation); (ii) all of the issued and outstanding shares of El Paso E&P S. Alamein Cayman Company; (iii) all of the issued and outstanding quotas of UnoPaso Exploracao e Producao de Petroleo e Gas Ltda. and El Paso Oleo e Gas do Brasil Ltda.; and (iv) all of the issued and outstanding shares of El Paso Brazil Holdings Company.

 

“Acquired Indebtedness” means, with respect to any specified Person:

 

(1)                                 Indebtedness of any other Person existing at the time such other Person is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into or became a Restricted Subsidiary of such specified Person, and

 

(2)                                 Indebtedness secured by a Lien encumbering any asset acquired by such specified Person.

 

Acquired Indebtedness will be deemed to have been Incurred, with respect to clause (1) of the preceding sentence, on the date such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary and, with respect to clause (2) of the preceding sentence, on the date of consummation of such acquisition of such assets.

 

“Acquisition” means the purchase by EPE Acquisition, LLC of the Acquired Business.

 

“Acquisition Documents” means the Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of February 24, 2012, by and among EP Energy Corporation, EP Energy Holding Company and El Paso Brazil, L.L.C., as sellers, and EPE Acquisition, LLC, as purchaser, and any other agreements or instruments contemplated thereby, in each case, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

 

“Additional Assets” means:

 

(1)                                 any properties or assets used or useful in the Oil and Gas Business;

 

(2)                                 capital expenditures by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary in the Oil and Gas Business;

 

(3)                                 the Capital Stock of a Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of the acquisition of such Capital Stock by Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary; or

 

(4)                                 Capital Stock constituting a minority interest in any Person that at such time is a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

provided, however, that, in the case of clauses (3) and (4), such Restricted Subsidiary is primarily engaged in the Oil and Gas Business.

 

“Additional Notes” means the Notes issued under the terms of this Indenture subsequent to the Issue Date.

 

“Additional Refinancing Amount” means, in connection with the Incurrence of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the aggregate principal amount of additional Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock Incurred to pay premiums (including tender premiums), expenses, defeasance costs and fees in respect thereof.

 

“Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets” means (without duplication), as of the date of determination, the remainder of:

 

(a)                                 the sum of:

 

(i)                                     estimated discounted future net revenues from proved oil and gas reserves of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries calculated in accordance with SEC guidelines before any provincial, territorial, state, federal or foreign income taxes, as estimated by Holdings in a reserve report prepared as of the end of Holdings’ most recently completed fiscal year for which audited financial statements are available, as increased by, as of the date of determination, the estimated discounted future net revenues from (A) estimated proved oil and gas reserves acquired since such year end, which reserves were not reflected in such year-end reserve report, and (B) estimated oil and gas reserves attributable to upward revisions of estimates of proved oil and gas reserves (including the impact to discounted future net revenues related to development costs previously estimated in the last year end reserve report, but only to the extent such costs were actually incurred since the date of the last year end reserve report) since such year-end due to exploration, development, exploitation or other activities, increased by the accretion of discount from the date of the last year end reserve report to the date of determination and decreased by, as of the date of determination, the estimated discounted future net revenues from (C) estimated proved oil and gas reserves included in the last year-end reserve report that shall have been produced or disposed of since such year end, and (D) estimated oil and gas reserves included therein that are subsequently removed

 

2

 

from the proved oil and gas reserves of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries as so calculated due to downward revisions of estimates of proved oil and gas reserves since such year-end due to changes in geological conditions or other factors which would, in accordance with standard industry practice, cause such revisions, provided, that (x) in the case of such year-end reserve report and any adjustments since such year-end pursuant to clauses (A), (B) and (D), the estimated discounted future net revenues from proved oil and gas reserves shall be determined in their entirety using oil, gas and other hydrocarbon prices and costs that are either (1) calculated in accordance with SEC guidelines and, with respect to such adjustments under clauses (A), (B) or (D), calculated with such prices and costs as if the end of the most recent fiscal quarter preceding the date of determination for which such information is available to Holdings were year-end or (2) if Holdings so elects at any time, calculated in accordance with the foregoing clause (1), except that when pricing of future net revenues of proved oil and gas reserves under SEC guidelines is not based on a contract price and is instead based upon benchmark, market or posted pricing, the pricing for each month of estimated future production from such proved oil and gas reserves not subject to contract pricing shall be based upon NYMEX (or successor) published forward prices for the most comparable hydrocarbon commodity applicable to such production month (adjusted for energy content, quality and basis differentials, with such basis differentials determined as provided in the definition of “Borrowing Base” and giving application to the last sentence of such definition hereto), as such forward prices are published as of the year end date of such reserve report or, with respect to post-year-end adjustments under clauses (A), (B) or (D), the last day of the most recent fiscal quarter preceding the date of determination, (y) the pricing of estimated proved reserves that have been produced or disposed since year end as set forth in clause (D) shall be based upon the applicable pricing elected for the prior year end reserve report as provided in clause (x), and (z) in each case as estimated by Holdings’ petroleum engineers or any independent petroleum engineers engaged by Holdings for that purpose;

 

(ii)                                  the capitalized costs that are attributable to Oil and Gas Properties of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries to which no proved oil and gas reserves are attributable, based on Holdings’ books and records as of a date no earlier than the date of Holdings’ latest annual or quarterly consolidated financial statements;

 

(iii)                               the Net Working Capital on a date no earlier than the date of Holdings’ latest annual or quarterly consolidated financial statements;

 

(iv)                              assets related to commodity risk management activities less liabilities related to commodity risk management activities, in each case to the extent that such assets and liabilities arise in the ordinary course of the Oil and Gas Business, provided that such net value shall not be less than zero; and

 

(v)                                 the greater of (A) the net book value of other tangible assets (including, without limitation, investments in unconsolidated Restricted Subsidiaries and mineral rights held under lease or other contractual arrangement) of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as of a date no earlier than the date of Holdings’ latest annual or quarterly consolidated financial statements, and (B) the Fair Market Value, as estimated

 

3

 

by Holdings, of other tangible assets (including, without limitation, investments in unconsolidated Restricted Subsidiaries and mineral rights held under lease or other contractual arrangement) of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as of a date no earlier than the date of Holdings’ latest audited consolidated financial statements (it being understood that Holdings shall not be required to obtain any appraisal of any assets); minus

 

(b)                                 the sum of:

 

(i)                                     any amount included in clauses (a)(i) through (a)(v) above that is attributable to minority interests;

 

(ii)                                  any net gas balancing liabilities of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries reflected in Holdings’ latest audited consolidated financial statements;

 

(iii)                               to the extent included in clause (a)(i) above, the estimated discounted future net revenues, calculated in accordance with SEC guidelines (utilizing the prices and costs as provided in clause (a)(i)), attributable to reserves which are required to be delivered to third parties to fully satisfy the obligations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries with respect to Volumetric Production Payments (determined, if applicable, using the schedules specified with respect thereto); and

 

(iv)                              to the extent included in clause (a)(i) above, the estimated discounted future net revenues, calculated in accordance with SEC guidelines (utilizing prices and costs as provided in clause (a)(i)), attributable to reserves subject to Dollar-Denominated Production Payments which, based on the estimates of production and price assumptions included in determining the estimated discounted future net revenues specified in clause (a)(i) above, would be necessary to fully satisfy the payment obligations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries with respect to Dollar-Denominated Production Payments (determined, if applicable, using the schedules specified with respect thereto).

 

If Holdings changes its method of accounting from the full cost method of accounting to the successful efforts or a similar method, “Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets” will continue to be calculated as if Holdings were still using the full cost method of accounting.

 

“Affiliate” of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person.  For purposes of this definition, “control” (including, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlling,” “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise.

 

“Applicable Premium” means, with respect to any Note on any applicable redemption date, as determined by the Issuers, the greater of:

 

(1)                                 1% of the then outstanding principal amount of the Note; and

 

4

 

(2)                                 the excess of:

 

(a)                                 the present value at such redemption date of (i) the redemption price of the Note, at June 15, 2018 (such redemption price being set forth in Paragraph 5 of the Note plus (ii) all required interest payments due on the Note through June 15, 2018 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest), computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate as of such redemption date plus 50 basis points; over

 

(b)                                 the then outstanding principal amount of the Note.

 

“Asset Sale” means:

 

(1)                                 the sale, conveyance, transfer or other disposition (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of property or assets (including by way of Production Payments and Reserve Sales and Sale/ Leaseback Transactions) (other than an operating lease entered into in the ordinary course of the Oil and Gas Business) outside the ordinary course of business of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (each referred to in this definition as a “disposition”); or

 

(2)                                 the issuance or sale of Equity Interests (other than directors’ qualifying shares and shares issued to foreign nationals or other third parties to the extent required by applicable law) of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary) (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions),

 

in each case other than:

 

(a)                                 a disposition of Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities or obsolete, damaged or worn out property or equipment in the ordinary course of business;

 

(b)                                 the disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of Holdings in a manner permitted pursuant to Section 5.01 or any disposition that constitutes a Change of Control;

 

(c)                                  any Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment that is permitted to be made, and is made, under Section 4.04;

 

(d)                                 any disposition of assets of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary or issuance or sale of Equity Interests of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, which assets or Equity Interests so disposed or issued have an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of less than $50.0 million;

 

(e)                                  any disposition of property or assets, or the issuance of securities, by a Restricted Subsidiary to Holdings or by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary to a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(f)                                   any exchange of assets (including a combination of assets and Cash Equivalents) for assets related to a Similar Business of comparable or greater

 

5

 

market value or usefulness to the business of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as a whole, as determined in good faith by Holdings;

 

(g)                                  foreclosure or any similar action with respect to any property or other asset of Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(h)                                 any sale of Equity Interests in, or Indebtedness or other securities of, an Unrestricted Subsidiary;

 

(i)                                     the lease, assignment or sublease of, or any transfer related to a “reverse build to suit” or similar transaction in respect of, any real or personal property in the ordinary course of business;

 

(j)                                    any sale of inventory or other assets in the ordinary course of business;

 

(k)                                 any grant in the ordinary course of business of any license of patents, trademarks, know-how or any other intellectual property;

 

(l)                                     in the ordinary course of business, any swap of assets, or lease, assignment or sublease of any real or personal property, in exchange for services (including in connection with any outsourcing arrangements) of comparable or greater value or usefulness to the business of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as a whole, as determined in good faith by Holdings;

 

(m)                             a transfer of accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of “Receivables Financing” (or a fractional undivided interest therein), including by a Receivables Subsidiary in a Qualified Receivables Financing;

 

(n)                                 any financing transaction with respect to property built or acquired by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary after the Issue Date, including any Sale/Leaseback Transaction or asset securitization permitted by this Indenture;

 

(o)                                 dispositions in connection with Permitted Liens;

 

(p)                                 any disposition of Capital Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to an agreement or other obligation with or to a Person (other than Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary) from whom such Restricted Subsidiary was acquired or from whom such Restricted Subsidiary acquired its business and assets (having been newly formed in connection with such acquisition), made as part of such acquisition and in each case comprising all or a portion of the consideration in respect of such sale or acquisition;

 

(q)                                 the sale of any property in a Sale/Leaseback Transaction within twelve months of the acquisition of such property;

 

(r)                                    dispositions of receivables in connection with the compromise, settlement or collection thereof in the ordinary course of business or in bankruptcy or similar proceedings and exclusive of factoring or similar arrangements;

 

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(s)                                   any surrender, expiration or waiver of contract rights or oil and gas leases or the settlement, release, recovery on or surrender of contract, tort or other claims of any kind;

 

(t)                                    a disposition of Hydrocarbons or mineral products inventory in the ordinary course of business;

 

(u)                                 any Production Payments and Reserve Sales; provided that any such Production Payments and Reserve Sales, other than incentive compensation programs on terms that are reasonably customary in the Oil and Gas Business for geologists, geophysicists and other providers of technical services to an Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary, shall have been created, incurred, issued, assumed or guaranteed in connection with the financing of, and within 60 days after the acquisition of, the property that is subject thereto;

 

(v)                                 the abandonment, farm-out pursuant to a Farm-Out Agreement, lease or sublease of developed or underdeveloped Oil and Gas Properties owned or held by an Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business or which are usual and customary in the Oil and Gas Business generally or in the geographic region in which such activities occur; and

 

(w)                               a disposition (whether or not in the ordinary course of business) of any Oil and Gas Property or interest therein to which no proved reserves are attributable at the time of such disposition.

 

“Bank Indebtedness” means any and all amounts payable under or in respect of (a) the Credit Agreement and the other Credit Agreement Documents, as amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original lenders or otherwise), restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time (including after termination of the Credit Agreement), including any agreement or indenture extending the maturity thereof, refinancing, replacing or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness under such agreement or agreements or indenture or indentures or any successor or replacement agreement or agreements or indenture or indentures or increasing the amount loaned or issued thereunder or altering the maturity thereof, including principal, premium (if any), interest (including interest accruing on or after the filing of any petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization relating to Holdings whether or not a claim for post-filing interest is allowed in such proceedings), fees, charges, expenses, reimbursement obligations, guarantees and all other amounts payable thereunder or in respect thereof and (b) whether or not the Indebtedness referred to in clause (a) remains outstanding, if designated by Holdings to be included in this definition, one or more (A) debt facilities or commercial paper facilities, providing for revolving credit loans, term loans, reserve-based loans, receivables financing (including through the sale of receivables to lenders or to special purpose entities formed to borrow from lenders against such receivables) or letters of credit, (B) debt securities, indentures or other forms of debt financing (including convertible or exchangeable debt instruments or bank guarantees or bankers’ acceptances), or (C) instruments or agreements evidencing any other Indebtedness, in each case, with the same or different borrowers or issuers

 

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and, in each case, as amended, supplemented, modified, extended, restructured, renewed, refinanced, restated, replaced or refunded in whole or in part from time to time.

 

“Board of Directors” means, as to any Person, the board of directors or managers, as applicable, of such Person or any direct or indirect parent of such Person (or, if such Person is a partnership, the board of directors or other governing body of the general partner of such Person) or any duly authorized committee thereof.  In the case of Holdings, the Board of Directors of Holdings shall be deemed to include the Board of Directors of any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as appropriate.

 

“Borrowing Base” means, at any date of determination, an amount equal to the amount of (a) 65% of the net present value discounted at 9% of proved developed producing (PDP) reserves, plus (b) 35% of the net present value discounted at 9% of proved developed non-producing (PDNP) reserves, plus (c) 25% of the net present value discounted at 9% of proven undeveloped (PUD) reserves, plus or minus (d) 65% of the net present value discounted at 9% of the future receipts expected to be paid to or by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries under commodity hedging agreements (other than basis differential commodity hedging agreements), netted against the price described below, plus or minus (e) 65% of the net present value discounted at 9% of the future receipts expected to be paid to or by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries under basis differential commodity hedging agreements, in each case for Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, and (i) for purposes of clauses (a) through (d) above, as estimated by Holdings in a reserve report prepared by Holdings’ petroleum engineers applying the relevant NYMEX (or successor) published forward prices for the most comparable hydrocarbon commodity adjusted for relevant energy content, quality and basis differentials (before any state or federal or other income tax) and (ii) for purposes of clauses (d) and (e) above, as estimated by Holdings applying, if available, the relevant NYMEX (or successor) published forward basis differential or, if such NYMEX (or successor) forward basis differential is unavailable, in good faith based on historical basis differential (before any state or federal or other income tax). For any months beyond the term included in published NYMEX (or successor) forward pricing, the price used will be equal to the last published contract escalated at 1.5% per annum.

 

“Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banking institutions are authorized or required by law to close in New York City or the place of payment.

 

“Capital Stock” means:

 

(1)                                 in the case of a corporation, corporate stock or shares;

 

(2)                                 in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock;

 

(3)                                 in the case of a partnership or limited liability company, partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and

 

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(4)                                 any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, the issuing Person.

 

“Capitalized Lease Obligation” means, at the time any determination thereof is to be made, the amount of the liability in respect of a capital lease that would at such time be required to be capitalized and reflected as a liability on a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) in accordance with GAAP; provided that any obligations of Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries, or of a special purpose or other entity not consolidated with Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, either existing on the Issue Date or created prior to any recharacterization described below (or any refinancings thereof) (i) that were not included on the consolidated balance sheet of Holdings as capital lease obligations and (ii) that are subsequently recharacterized as capital lease obligations or, in the case of such a special purpose or other entity becoming consolidated with Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, due to a change in accounting treatment or otherwise, shall for all purposes not be treated as Capitalized Lease Obligations or Indebtedness.

 

“Capitalized Software Expenditures” shall mean, for any period, the aggregate of all expenditures (whether paid in cash or accrued as liabilities) by a Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries during such period in respect of licensed or purchased software or internally developed software and software enhancements that, in conformity with GAAP, are or are required to be reflected as capitalized costs on the consolidated balance sheet of such Person and such Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

“Cash Equivalents” means:

 

(1)                                 U.S. dollars, pounds sterling, euros, the national currency of any member state in the European Union or such local currencies held by an entity from time to time in the ordinary course of business;

 

(2)                                 securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government or any country that is a member of the European Union or any agency or instrumentality thereof in each case maturing not more than two years from the date of acquisition;

 

(3)                                 certificates of deposit, time deposits and eurodollar time deposits with maturities of one year or less from the date of acquisition, bankers’ acceptances, in each case with maturities not exceeding one year and overnight bank deposits, in each case with any commercial bank having capital and surplus in excess of $250.0 million and whose long-term debt is rated “A” or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s or S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized ratings agency);

 

(4)                                 repurchase obligations for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (2) and (3) above entered into with any financial institution meeting the qualifications specified in clause (3) above;

 

(5)                                 commercial paper issued by a corporation (other than an Affiliate of Holdings) rated at least “A-1” or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s or S&P (or

 

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reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized ratings agency) and in each case maturing within one year after the date of acquisition;

 

(6)                                 readily marketable direct obligations issued by any state of the United States of America or any political subdivision thereof having one of the two highest rating categories obtainable from either Moody’s or S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized ratings agency) in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition;

 

(7)                                 Indebtedness issued by Persons (other than the Sponsors or any of their Affiliates) with a rating of “A” or higher from S&P or “A-2” or higher from Moody’s (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized ratings agency) in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition; and

 

(8)                                 investment funds investing at least 95% of their assets in securities of the types described in clauses (1) through (7) above.

 

“CFC” means a “controlled foreign corporation” within the meaning of Section 957 of the Code.

 

“Change of Control” means the occurrence of either of the following:

 

(1)                                 the sale, lease or transfer, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all the assets of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to a Person other than any of the Permitted Holders; or

 

(2)                                 Holdings becomes aware (by way of a report or any other filing pursuant to Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, proxy, vote, written notice or otherwise) of the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Exchange Act), other than any of the Permitted Holders, in a single transaction or in a related series of transactions, by way of merger, consolidation, amalgamation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), of more than 50% of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Holdings.

 

“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

“Consolidated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Expense” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the total amount of depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, including the amortization of intangible assets, deferred financing fees and Capitalized Software Expenditures and amortization of unrecognized prior service costs and actuarial gains and losses related to pensions and other post-employment benefits, of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period on a consolidated basis and otherwise determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

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“Consolidated Interest Expense” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of:

 

(1)                                 consolidated interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, to the extent such expense was deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income (including amortization of original issue discount, the interest component of Capitalized Lease Obligations, and net payments and receipts (if any) pursuant to interest rate Hedging Obligations and excluding Additional Interest in respect of the Notes, amortization of deferred financing fees, any interest attributable to Dollar-Denominated Production Payments, debt issuance costs, commissions, fees and expenses, expensing of any bridge, commitment or other financing fees and non-cash interest expense attributable to movement in mark to market valuation of Hedging Obligations or other derivatives (in each case permitted hereunder) under GAAP); plus

 

(2)                                 consolidated capitalized interest of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued; plus

 

(3)                                 commissions, discounts, yield and other fees and charges Incurred in connection with any Receivables Financing which are payable to Persons other than Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries; minus

 

(4)                                 interest income for such period.

 

For purposes of this definition, interest on a Capitalized Lease Obligation shall be deemed to accrue at an interest rate reasonably determined by Holdings to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capitalized Lease Obligation in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Consolidated Net Income” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate of the Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, on a consolidated basis; provided, however, that:

 

(1)                                 any net after-tax extraordinary, nonrecurring or unusual gains or losses (less all fees and expenses relating thereto) or expenses or charges, any severance expenses, relocation expenses, curtailments or modifications to pension and post-retirement employee benefit plans, any expenses related to any reconstruction, decommissioning, recommissioning or reconfiguration of fixed assets for alternate uses and fees, expenses or charges relating to facilities closing costs, acquisition integration costs, facilities opening costs, project start-up costs, business optimization costs, signing, retention or completion bonuses, expenses or charges related to any issuance of Equity Interests, Investment, acquisition, disposition, recapitalization or issuance, repayment, refinancing, amendment or modification of Indebtedness (in each case, whether or not successful), and any fees, expenses, charges or change in control payments related to the Transactions, in each case, shall be excluded;

 

(2)                                 effects of purchase accounting adjustments (including the effects of such adjustments pushed down to such Person and such Subsidiaries) in amounts required or permitted by GAAP, resulting from the application of purchase accounting or the amortization or write-off of any amounts thereof, net of taxes, shall be excluded;

 

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(3)                                 the Net Income for such period shall not include the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles during such period;

 

(4)                                 any net after-tax income or loss from disposed, abandoned, transferred, closed or discontinued operations or fixed assets and any net after-tax gains or losses on disposal of disposed, abandoned, transferred, closed or discontinued operations or fixed assets shall be excluded;

 

(5)                                 any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses or charges relating thereto) attributable to business dispositions or asset dispositions other than in the ordinary course of business (as determined in good faith by management of Holdings) shall be excluded;

 

(6)                                 any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses or charges relating thereto) attributable to the early extinguishment of indebtedness, Hedging Obligations or other derivative instruments shall be excluded;

 

(7)                                 the Net Income for such period of any Person that is not a Subsidiary of such Person, or is an Unrestricted Subsidiary, or that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting, shall be included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or distributions or other payments paid in cash (or to the extent converted into cash) to the referent Person or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof in respect of such period;

 

(8)                                 solely for the purpose of determining the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (1) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit,” the Net Income for such period of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than any Subsidiary Guarantor) shall be excluded to the extent that the declaration or payment of dividends or similar distributions by such Restricted Subsidiary of its Net Income is not at the date of determination permitted without any prior governmental approval (which has not been obtained) or, directly or indirectly, by the operation of the terms of its charter or any agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or governmental regulation applicable to that Restricted Subsidiary or its stockholders, unless such restrictions with respect to the payment of dividends or similar distributions have been legally waived; provided that the Consolidated Net Income of such Person shall be increased by the amount of dividends or other distributions or other payments actually paid in cash (or converted into cash) by any such Restricted Subsidiary to such Person, to the extent not already included therein;

 

(9)                                 an amount equal to the amount of Tax Distributions actually made to any parent or equity holder of such Person in respect of such period in accordance with Section 4.04(b)(xii) shall be included as though such amounts had been paid as income taxes directly by such Person for such period;

 

(10)                          any impairment charges or asset write-offs, in each case pursuant to GAAP, the amortization of intangibles and other fair value adjustments arising pursuant to GAAP, and any impairment charges, asset write-offs or write-down, including ceiling

 

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test write-downs, on Oil and Gas Properties under GAAP or SEC guidelines shall be excluded;

 

(11)                          any non-cash expense realized or resulting from stock option plans, employee benefit plans or post-employment benefit plans, or grants or sales of stock, stock appreciation or similar rights, stock options, restricted stock, preferred stock or other rights shall be excluded;

 

(12)                          any (a) non-cash compensation charges, (b) costs and expenses after the Issue Date related to employment of terminated employees, or (c) costs or expenses realized in connection with or resulting from stock appreciation or similar rights, stock options or other rights existing on the Issue Date of officers, directors, managers and employees, in each case of such Person or any Restricted Subsidiary, shall be excluded;

 

(13)                          accruals and reserves that are established or adjusted within 12 months after the Issue Date and that are so required to be established or adjusted in accordance with GAAP or as a result of adoption or modification of accounting policies shall be excluded;

 

(14)                          (a) the Net Income of any Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries shall be calculated without deducting the income attributable to, or adding the losses attributable to, the minority equity interests of third parties in any non-Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary except to the extent of dividends declared or paid in respect of such period or any prior period on the shares of Capital Stock of such Restricted Subsidiary held by such third parties and (b) any ordinary course dividend, distribution or other payment paid in cash and received from any Person in excess of amounts included in clause (7) above shall be included;

 

(15)                          (a)(i) the non-cash portion of “straight-line” rent expense shall be excluded and (ii) the cash portion of “straight-line” rent expense which exceeds the amount expensed in respect of such rent expense shall be included and (b) non-cash gains, losses, income and expenses resulting from fair value accounting required by the applicable standard under GAAP and related interpretations shall be excluded;

 

(16)                          any currency translation gains and losses related to currency remeasurements of Indebtedness, and any net loss or gain resulting from hedging transactions for currency exchange risk, shall be excluded;

 

(17)                          (a) to the extent covered by insurance and actually reimbursed, or, so long as such Person has made a determination that there exists reasonable evidence that such amount will in fact be reimbursed by the insurer and only to the extent that such amount is (i) not denied by the applicable carrier in writing within 180 days and (ii) in fact reimbursed within 365 days of the date of such evidence (with a deduction for any amount so added back to the extent not so reimbursed within 365 days), expenses with respect to liability or casualty events or business interruption shall be excluded and (b) amounts estimated in good faith to be received from insurance in respect of lost revenues or earnings in respect of liability or casualty events or business interruption

 

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shall be included (with a deduction for amounts actually received up to such estimated amount to the extent included in Net Income in a future period);

 

(18)                          Capitalized Software Expenditures shall be excluded; and

 

(19)                          Non-cash charges for deferred tax asset valuation allowances shall be excluded (except to the extent reversing a previously recognized increase to net income).

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, for the purpose of Section 4.04 only, there shall be excluded from Consolidated Net Income any dividends, repayments of loans or advances or other transfers of assets from Unrestricted Subsidiaries or Restricted Subsidiaries to the extent such dividends, repayments or transfers increase the amount of Restricted Payments permitted under Section 4.04 pursuant to clauses (4) and (5) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit.”

 

“Consolidated Non-Cash Charges” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the non-cash expenses (other than Consolidated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Expense) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries reducing Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period on a consolidated basis and otherwise determined in accordance with GAAP, provided that if any such non-cash expenses represent an accrual or reserve for potential cash items in any future period, the cash payment in respect thereof in such future period shall be subtracted from EBITDA in such future period to the extent paid, but excluding from this proviso, for the avoidance of doubt, amortization of a prepaid cash item that was paid in a prior period.

 

“Consolidated Taxes” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the provision for taxes based on income, profits or capital, including, without limitation, state, franchise, property and similar taxes, foreign withholding taxes (including penalties and interest related to such taxes or arising from tax examinations) and any Tax Distributions taken into account in calculating Consolidated Net Income.

 

“Consolidated Total Indebtedness” means, as of any date of determination, an amount equal to the sum (without duplication) of (1) the aggregate principal amount of all outstanding Indebtedness of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries (excluding any undrawn letters of credit) consisting of Capitalized Lease Obligations, bankers’ acceptances and Indebtedness for borrowed money, plus (2) the aggregate amount of all outstanding Disqualified Stock of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries and all Preferred Stock of Restricted Subsidiaries, with the amount of such Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock equal to the greater of their respective voluntary or involuntary liquidation preferences, in each case determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Contingent Obligations” means, with respect to any Person, any obligation of such Person guaranteeing any leases, dividends or other obligations that do not constitute Indebtedness (“primary obligations”) of any other Person (the “primary obligor”) in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, including, without limitation, any obligation of such Person, whether or not contingent:

 

(1)                                 to purchase any such primary obligation or any property constituting direct or indirect security therefor,

 

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(2)                                 to advance or supply funds:

 

(a)                                 for the purchase or payment of any such primary obligation; or

 

(b)                                 to maintain working capital or equity capital of the primary obligor or otherwise to maintain the net worth or solvency of the primary obligor; or

 

(3)                                 to purchase property, securities or services primarily for the purpose of assuring the owner of any such primary obligation of the ability of the primary obligor to make payment of such primary obligation against loss in respect thereof.

 

“Corporate Trust Office” means the designated office of the Trustee in the United States of America at which at any time its corporate trust business shall be administered, or such other address as the Trustee may designate from time to time by notice to the holders and the Issuers, or the principal corporate trust office of any successor Trustee (or such other address as such successor Trustee may designate from time to time by notice to the holders and the Issuers).

 

“Credit Agreement” means (i) the Credit Agreement dated as of May 24, 2012 by and among Holdings, the guarantors named therein, the financial institutions named therein, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, as amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original lenders or otherwise), restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time, including any agreement or indenture extending the maturity thereof, refinancing, replacing or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness under such agreement or agreements or indenture or indentures or any successor or replacement agreement or agreements or indenture or indentures or increasing the amount loaned or issued thereunder or altering the maturity thereof (except to the extent any such refinancing, replacement or restructuring is designated by Holdings to not be included in the definition of “Credit Agreement”) and (ii) whether or not the credit agreement referred to in clause (i) remains outstanding, if designated by Holdings to be included in the definition of “Credit Agreement,” one or more (A) debt facilities or commercial paper facilities, providing for revolving credit loans, term loans, reserve-based loans, securitization or receivables financing (including through the sale of receivables to lenders or to special purpose entities formed to borrow from lenders against such receivables) or letters of credit, (B) debt securities, indentures or other forms of debt financing (including convertible or exchangeable debt instruments or bank guarantees or bankers’ acceptances), or (C) instruments or agreements evidencing any other Indebtedness, in each case, with the same or different borrowers or issuers and, in each case, as amended, supplemented, modified, extended, restructured, renewed, refinanced, restated, replaced or refunded in whole or in part from time to time.

 

“Credit Agreement Documents” means the collective reference to any Credit Agreement, any notes issued pursuant thereto and the guarantees thereof, and the collateral documents relating thereto, as amended, supplemented, restated, renewed, refunded, replaced, restructured, repaid, refinanced or otherwise modified, in whole or in part, from time to time.

 

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“Cumulative Credit” means the sum of (without duplication):

 

(1)                                 50% of the Consolidated Net Income of Holdings for the period from July 1, 2012 to the end of Holdings’ most recently ended fiscal quarter for which internal financial statements are available at the time of such Restricted Payment (taken as one accounting period, the “Reference Period”) (or in case such Consolidated Net Income for such period is a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit), plus

 

(2)                                 100% of (i) the aggregate net proceeds, including cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of property other than cash, received by Holdings after May 24, 2012 plus (ii) the aggregate net proceeds, including cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of property other than cash, received by Holdings in excess of $3,200 million prior to or on May 24, 2012 (in each case other than net proceeds to the extent such net proceeds have been used to Incur Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xiii)) from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent entity of Holdings (excluding Refunding Capital Stock (as defined below), Designated Preferred Stock, Excluded Contributions, and Disqualified Stock), including Equity Interests issued upon exercise of warrants or options (other than an issuance or sale to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary), plus

 

(3)                                 100% of (i) the aggregate amount of contributions to the capital of Holdings received in cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of property other than cash after May 24, 2012 plus (ii) the aggregate amount of contributions to the capital of Holdings received in cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of property other than cash, in excess of $3,200 million prior to or on May 24, 2012 (in each case other than Excluded Contributions, Refunding Capital Stock, Designated Preferred Stock, and Disqualified Stock and other than contributions to the extent such contributions have been used to Incur Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock, or Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xiii)), plus

 

(4)                                 100% of the principal amount of any Indebtedness, or the liquidation preference or maximum fixed repurchase price, as the case may be, of any Disqualified Stock of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary issued after May 24, 2012 (other than Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock issued to a Restricted Subsidiary) which has been converted into or exchanged for Equity Interests in Holdings (other than Disqualified Stock) or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings (provided in the case of any such parent, such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock is retired or extinguished), plus

 

(5)                                 100% of the aggregate amount received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of property other than cash received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary from:

 

(A)                               the sale or other disposition (other than to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary) of Restricted Investments made by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries and from repurchases and redemptions of such Restricted Investments from Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries by any Person (other

 

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than Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary) and from repayments of loans or advances, and releases of guarantees, which constituted Restricted Investments (other than in each case to the extent that the Restricted Investment was made pursuant to Section 4.04(b)(vii)),

 

(B)                               the sale (other than to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary) of the Capital Stock of an Unrestricted Subsidiary, or

 

(C)                               a distribution or dividend from an Unrestricted Subsidiary, plus

 

(6)                                 in the event any Unrestricted Subsidiary has been redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary or has been merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys its assets to, or is liquidated into, Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary, the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of the Investment of Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiaries in such Unrestricted Subsidiary (which, if the Fair Market Value of such Investment shall exceed $25.0 million, shall be determined by the Board of Directors of Holdings) at the time of such redesignation, combination or transfer (or of the assets transferred or conveyed, as applicable) (other than in each case to the extent that the designation of such Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary was made pursuant to Section 4.04(b)(vii) or constituted a Permitted Investment).

 

“Default” means any event which is, or after notice or passage of time or both would be, an Event of Default.

 

“Designated Non-cash Consideration” means the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of non-cash consideration received by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary in connection with an Asset Sale that is so designated as Designated Non-cash Consideration pursuant to an Officers’ Certificate, setting forth the basis of such valuation, less the amount of Cash Equivalents received in connection with a subsequent sale of such Designated Non-cash Consideration.

 

“Designated Preferred Stock” means Preferred Stock of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings (other than Disqualified Stock), that is issued for cash (other than to Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or an employee stock ownership plan or trust established by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries) and is so designated as Designated Preferred Stock, pursuant to an Officers’ Certificate, on the issuance date thereof.

 

“Disqualified Stock” means, with respect to any Person, any Capital Stock of such Person which, by its terms (or by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is redeemable or exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event:

 

(1)                                 matures or is mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise (other than as a result of a change of control or asset sale),

 

(2)                                 is convertible or exchangeable for Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of such Person, or

 

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(3)                                 is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part (other than solely as a result of a change of control or asset sale),

 

in each case prior to 91 days after the earlier of the maturity date of the Notes or the date the Notes are no longer outstanding; provided, however, that only the portion of Capital Stock which so matures or is mandatorily redeemable, is so convertible or exchangeable or is so redeemable at the option of the holder thereof prior to such date shall be deemed to be Disqualified Stock; provided, further, however, that if such Capital Stock is issued to any employee or to any plan for the benefit of employees of Holdings or its Subsidiaries or by any such plan to such employees, such Capital Stock shall not constitute Disqualified Stock solely because it may be required to be repurchased by such Person in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations or as a result of such employee’s termination, death or disability; provided, further, that any class of Capital Stock of such Person that by its terms authorizes such Person to satisfy its obligations thereunder by delivery of Capital Stock that is not Disqualified Stock shall not be deemed to be Disqualified Stock.

 

“Dollar-Denominated Production Payments” means production payment obligations recorded as liabilities in accordance with GAAP, together with all undertakings and obligations in connection therewith.

 

“Domestic Subsidiary” means a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Foreign Subsidiary.

 

“EBITDA” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the Consolidated Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period plus, without duplication, to the extent the same was deducted in calculating Consolidated Net Income:

 

(1)                                 Consolidated Taxes; plus

 

(2)                                 Fixed Charges; plus

 

(3)                                 Consolidated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Expense; plus

 

(4)                                 Consolidated Non-Cash Charges; plus

 

(5)                                 any expenses or charges (other than Consolidated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Expense) related to any issuance of Equity Interests, Investment, acquisition, disposition, recapitalization or the Incurrence, modification or repayment of Indebtedness permitted to be Incurred by this Indenture (including a refinancing thereof) (whether or not successful), including (i) such fees, expenses or charges related to the Transactions, the Notes or any other Indebtedness, (ii) any amendment or other modification of the Notes or other Indebtedness, (iii) any Additional Interest in respect of the Notes and (iv) commissions, discounts, yield and other fees and charges (including any interest expense) related to any Qualified Receivables Financing; plus

 

(6)                                 business optimization expenses and other restructuring charges, reserves or expenses (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall include, without limitation, the effect of inventory optimization programs, facility closures, facility consolidations,

 

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retention, systems establishment costs, contract termination costs, future lease commitments and excess pension charges); plus

 

(7)                                 the amount of loss on sale of receivables and related assets to a Receivables Subsidiary in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing; plus

 

(8)                                 any costs or expense Incurred pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement or any stock subscription or shareholder agreement, to the extent that such cost or expenses are funded with cash proceeds contributed to the capital of Holdings or a Subsidiary Guarantor or net cash proceeds of an issuance of Equity Interests of Holdings (other than Disqualified Stock) solely to the extent that such net cash proceeds are excluded from the calculation of the Cumulative Credit; plus

 

(9)                                 the amount of any management, monitoring, consulting, transaction and advisory fees and related expenses paid to the Sponsors (or any accruals relating to such fees and related expenses) during such period to the extent otherwise permitted by Section 4.07, including, if applicable, the amount of termination fees paid pursuant to clause (20) thereof; plus

 

(10)                          all adjustments of the nature used in connection with the calculation of “Adjusted EBITDAX” as set forth in “Summary Historical and Consolidated Financial Data” under “Summary” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent such adjustments, without duplication, continue to be applicable to such period; plus

 

(11)                          the amount of any loss attributable to a new plant or facility until the date that is 12 months after completing construction of or acquiring such plant or facility, as the case may be; provided that (A) such losses are reasonably identifiable and factually supportable and certified by a responsible officer of Holdings and (B) losses attributable to such plant or facility after 12 months from the date of completing construction of or acquisition of such plant or facility, as the case may be, shall not be included in this clause (11), plus

 

(12)                          exploration expenses or costs (to the extent Holdings adopts the “successful efforts” method), and

 

less, without duplication, to the extent the same increased Consolidated Net Income,

 

(13)                          the sum of (x) the amount of deferred revenues that are amortized during such period and are attributable to reserves that are subject to Volumetric Production Payments and (y) amounts recorded in accordance with GAAP as repayments of principal and interest pursuant to Dollar-Denominated Production Payments; and

 

(14)                          non-cash items increasing Consolidated Net Income for such period (excluding the recognition of deferred revenue or any items which represent the reversal of any accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges that reduced EBITDA in any prior period and any items for which cash was received in a prior period).

 

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“Equity Interests” means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

 

“Equity Offering” means any public or private sale after the Issue Date of common Capital Stock or Preferred Stock of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable (other than Disqualified Stock), other than:

 

(1)                                 public offerings with respect to Holdings’ or such direct or indirect parent’s common stock registered on Form S-4 or Form S-8;

 

(2)                                 issuances to any Subsidiary of Holdings; and

 

(3)                                 any such public or private sale that constitutes an Excluded Contribution.

 

“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.

 

“Exchange Notes” means the Notes of the Issuers issued pursuant to this Indenture in exchange for, and in an aggregate principal amount equal to or not in excess of, the Initial Notes or any Additional Notes, if applicable, in compliance with the terms of the Registration Rights Agreement.

 

“Exchange Offer Registration Statement” means the registration statement filed with the SEC in connection with the Registered Exchange Offer.

 

“Excluded Contributions” means the Cash Equivalents or other assets (valued at their Fair Market Value as determined in good faith by senior management or the Board of Directors of Holdings) received by Holdings after the Issue Date from:

 

(1)                                 contributions to its common equity capital, and

 

(2)                                 the sale (other than to a Subsidiary of Holdings or to any Subsidiary management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement) of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock and Designated Preferred Stock) of Holdings,

 

in each case designated as Excluded Contributions pursuant to an Officers’ Certificate on or promptly after the date such capital contributions are made or the date such Capital Stock is sold, as the case may be; provided, that $3,200 million of Cash Equivalents received by Holdings from the Equity Investors on or prior to May 24, 2012 to fund the Acquisition shall not be permitted to be designated an Excluded Contribution.

 

“Excluded Subsidiary” means (a) any Unrestricted Subsidiary, (b) any Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary, (c) any Foreign Subsidiary, (d) any Domestic Subsidiary (i) that owns no material assets (directly or through its Subsidiaries) other than equity interests of one or more Foreign Subsidiaries that are CFCs or (ii) that is a direct or indirect Subsidiary of a Foreign Subsidiary, (e) any Receivables Subsidiary and (f) any Subsidiary (other than a

 

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Significant Subsidiary) that (i) did not, as of the last day of the fiscal quarter of Holdings most recently ended, have assets with a value in excess of 5.0% of the Total Assets or revenues representing in excess of 5.0% of total revenues of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis as of such date and (ii) taken together with all other such Subsidiaries as of the last day of the fiscal quarter of Holdings most recently ended, did not have assets with a value in excess of 10.0% of the Total Assets or revenues representing in excess of 10.0% of total revenues of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis as of such date.

 

“Existing Senior Notes” means (i) the Issuers’ 9.375% Senior Notes due 2020 issued on April 24, 2012 (including exchange notes issued in exchange therefor pursuant to a registration rights agreement dated April 24, 2012) pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 24, 2012 by and among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee, as it may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof and (ii) the Issuers’ 7.750% Senior Notes due 2022 issued on August 13, 2012 (including exchange notes issued in exchange therefor pursuant to a registration rights agreement dated August 13, 2012) pursuant to the Indenture dated as of August 13, 2012 by and among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, as it may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

“Fair Market Value” means, with respect to any asset or property, the price which could be negotiated in an arm’s-length transaction, for cash, between a willing seller and a willing and able buyer, neither of whom is under undue pressure or compulsion to complete the transaction.

 

“Farm-In Agreement” means an agreement whereby a Person agrees to pay all or a share of the drilling, completion or other expenses of one or more exploratory or development wells (which agreement may be subject to a maximum payment obligation, after which expenses are shared in accordance with the working or participation interests therein or in accordance with the agreement of the parties) or perform the drilling, completion or other operation on such well or wells as all or a part of the consideration provided in exchange for an ownership interest in an Oil and Gas Property.

 

“Farm-Out Agreement” means a Farm-In Agreement, viewed from the standpoint of the party that transfers an ownership interest to another.

 

“Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the ratio of EBITDA of such Person for such period to the Fixed Charges of such Person for such period. In the event that Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries Incurs, repays, repurchases or redeems any Indebtedness (other than in the case of any Qualified Receivables Financing, in which case interest expense shall be computed based upon the average daily balance of such Indebtedness during the applicable period) or issues, repurchases or redeems Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock subsequent to the commencement of the period for which the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is being calculated but prior to the event for which the calculation of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is made (the “Calculation Date”), then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such Incurrence,

 

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repayment, repurchase or redemption of Indebtedness, or such issuance, repurchase or redemption of Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period; provided that Holdings may elect pursuant to an Officers’ Certificate delivered to the Trustee to treat all or any portion of the commitment under any Indebtedness as being Incurred at such time, in which case any subsequent Incurrence of Indebtedness under such commitment shall not be deemed, for purposes of this calculation, to be an Incurrence at such subsequent time.

 

For purposes of making the computation referred to above, Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers, amalgamations, consolidations and discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP), in each case with respect to an operating unit of a business, and any operational changes that Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary has determined to make and/or made during the four-quarter reference period or subsequent to such reference period and on or prior to or simultaneously with the Calculation Date shall be calculated on a pro forma basis assuming that all such Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers, amalgamations, consolidations, discontinued operations and other operational changes (and the change of any associated fixed charge obligations and the change in EBITDA resulting therefrom) had occurred on the first day of the four-quarter reference period. If since the beginning of such period any Person that subsequently became a Restricted Subsidiary or was merged with or into Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary since the beginning of such period shall have made any Investment, acquisition, disposition, merger, consolidation, amalgamation, discontinued operation or operational change, in each case with respect to an operating unit of a business, that would have required adjustment pursuant to this definition, then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect thereto for such period as if such Investment, acquisition, disposition, discontinued operation, merger, amalgamation, consolidation or operational change had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period. If since the beginning of such period any Restricted Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary or any Unrestricted Subsidiary is designated a Restricted Subsidiary, then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect thereto for such period as if such designation had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period.

 

For purposes of this definition, whenever pro forma effect is to be given to any event, the pro forma calculations shall be made in good faith by a responsible financial or accounting officer of Holdings. Any such pro forma calculation may include adjustments appropriate, in the reasonable good faith determination of Holdings as set forth in an Officers’ Certificate, to reflect (1) operating expense reductions and other operating improvements or synergies reasonably expected to result from the applicable event, and (2) all adjustments of the nature used in connection with the calculation of “Adjusted EBITDAX” as set forth in “Summary Historical and Consolidated Financial Data” under “Summary” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent such adjustments, without duplication, continue to be applicable to such four-quarter period.

 

If any Indebtedness bears a floating rate of interest and is being given pro forma effect, the interest on such Indebtedness shall be calculated as if the rate in effect on the Calculation Date had been the applicable rate for the entire period (taking into account any Hedging Obligations applicable to such Indebtedness if such Hedging Obligation has a

 

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remaining term in excess of 12 months). Interest on a Capitalized Lease Obligation shall be deemed to accrue at an interest rate reasonably determined by a responsible financial or accounting officer of Holdings to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capitalized Lease Obligation in accordance with GAAP. For purposes of making the computation referred to above, interest on any Indebtedness under a revolving credit facility computed on a pro forma basis shall be computed based upon the average daily balance of such Indebtedness during the applicable period. Interest on Indebtedness that may optionally be determined at an interest rate based upon a factor of a prime or similar rate, a Eurocurrency interbank offered rate, or other rate, shall be deemed to have been based upon the rate actually chosen, or, if none, then based upon such optional rate chosen as Holdings may designate.

 

For purposes of this definition, any amount in a currency other than U.S. dollars will be converted to U.S. dollars based on the average exchange rate for such currency for the most recent twelve month period immediately prior to the date of determination in a manner consistent with that used in calculating EBITDA for the applicable period.

 

“Fixed Charges” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of: (1) Consolidated Interest Expense (excluding amortization or write-off of deferred financing costs) of such Person for such period, and (2) all cash dividend payments (excluding items eliminated in consolidation) on any series of Preferred Stock or Disqualified Stock of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

“Foreign Subsidiary” means a Restricted Subsidiary not organized or existing under the laws of the United States of America or any state thereof or the District of Columbia.

 

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as have been approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession, which are in effect on the Issue Date.  For the purposes of this Indenture, the term “consolidated” with respect to any Person shall mean such Person consolidated with its Restricted Subsidiaries, and shall not include any Unrestricted Subsidiary, but the interest of such Person in an Unrestricted Subsidiary will be accounted for as an Investment.

 

“guarantee” means a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business), direct or indirect, in any manner (including, without limitation, letters of credit and reimbursement agreements in respect thereof), of all or any part of any Indebtedness or other obligations.

 

“Hedging Obligations” means, with respect to any Person, the obligations of such Person under:

 

(1)                                 currency exchange, interest rate or commodity swap agreements (including commodity swaps, commodity options, forward commodity contracts, basis differential swaps, spot contracts, fixed-price physical delivery contracts or other similar agreements or arrangements in respect of Hydrocarbons), currency exchange, interest rate

 

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or commodity cap agreements and currency exchange, interest rate or commodity collar agreements; and

 

(2)                                 other agreements or arrangements designed to protect such Person against fluctuations in currency exchange, interest rates or commodity prices.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, agreements or obligations to physically sell any commodity at any index-based price shall not be considered Hedging Obligations.

 

“holder” or “noteholder” means the Person in whose name a Note is registered on the Registrar’s books.

 

“Holdings” means EP Energy LLC, together with its successors or assigns.

 

“Hydrocarbons” means oil, natural gas, casinghead gas, drip gasoline, natural gasoline, condensate, distillate, liquid hydrocarbons, gaseous hydrocarbons and all constituents, elements or compounds thereof and products refined or processed therefrom.

 

“Incur” means issue, assume, guarantee, incur or otherwise become liable for; provided, however, that any Indebtedness or Capital Stock of a Person existing at the time such person becomes a Subsidiary (whether by merger, amalgamation, consolidation, acquisition or otherwise) shall be deemed to be Incurred by such Person at the time it becomes a Subsidiary.

 

“Indebtedness” means, with respect to any Person:

 

(1)                                 the principal and premium (if any) of any indebtedness of such Person, whether or not contingent, (a) in respect of borrowed money, (b) evidenced by bonds, notes, debentures or similar instruments or letters of credit or bankers’ acceptances (or, without duplication, reimbursement agreements in respect thereof), (c) representing the deferred and unpaid purchase price of any property (except any such balance that constitutes (i) a trade payable or similar obligation to a trade creditor Incurred in the ordinary course of business, (ii) any earn-out obligations until such obligation becomes a liability on the balance sheet of such Person in accordance with GAAP and (iii) liabilities accrued in the ordinary course of business), which purchase price is due more than twelve months after the date of placing the property in service or taking delivery and title thereto, (d) in respect of Capitalized Lease Obligations, or (e) representing any Hedging Obligations, if and to the extent that any of the foregoing indebtedness would appear as a liability on a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) of such Person prepared in accordance with GAAP;

 

(2)                                 to the extent not otherwise included, any obligation of such Person to be liable for, or to pay, as obligor, guarantor or otherwise, the obligations referred to in clause (1) of another Person (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business); and

 

(3)                                 to the extent not otherwise included, Indebtedness of another Person secured by a Lien on any asset owned by such Person (whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person); provided, however, that the amount of such Indebtedness

 

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will be the lesser of: (a) the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of such asset at such date of determination, and (b) the amount of such Indebtedness of such other Person;

 

provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, Indebtedness shall be deemed not to include (1) Contingent Obligations Incurred in the ordinary course of business and not in respect of borrowed money; (2) deferred or prepaid revenues; (3) purchase price holdbacks in respect of a portion of the purchase price of an asset to satisfy warranty or other unperformed obligations of the respective seller; (4) Obligations under or in respect of Qualified Receivables Financing; (5) obligations under the Acquisition Documents; (6) Production Payments and Reserve Sales; (7) any obligation of a Person in respect of a Farm-In Agreement or similar arrangement whereby such Person agrees to pay all or a share of the drilling, completion or other expenses of an exploratory or development well (which agreement may be subject to a maximum payment obligation, after which expenses are shared in accordance with the working or participation interest therein or in accordance with the agreement of the parties) or perform the drilling, completion or other operation on such well in exchange for an ownership interest in an oil or gas property; (8) any obligations under Hedging Obligations; provided that such agreements are entered into for bona fide hedging purposes of Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries (as determined in good faith by the board of directors or senior management of Holdings, whether or not accounted for as a hedge in accordance with GAAP) and, in the case of any foreign exchange contract, currency swap agreement, futures contract, option contract or other similar agreement, such agreements are related to business transactions of Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries entered into in the ordinary course of business and, in the case of any interest rate protection agreement, interest rate future agreement, interest rate option agreement, interest rate swap agreement, interest rate cap agreement, interest rate collar agreement, interest rate hedge agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement, such agreements substantially correspond in terms of notional amount, duration and interest rates, as applicable, to Indebtedness of Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries Incurred without violation of this Indenture; and (9) in-kind obligations relating to net oil, natural gas liquids or natural gas balancing positions arising in the ordinary course of business.

 

Notwithstanding anything in this Indenture to the contrary, Indebtedness shall not include, and shall be calculated without giving effect to, the effects of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133 and related interpretations to the extent such effects would otherwise increase or decrease an amount of Indebtedness for any purpose under this Indenture as a result of accounting for any embedded derivatives created by the terms of such Indebtedness; and any such amounts that would have constituted Indebtedness under this Indenture but for the application of this sentence shall not be deemed an Incurrence of Indebtedness under this Indenture.

 

“Indenture” means this Indenture as amended or supplemented from time to time.

 

“Independent Financial Advisor” means an accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm or consultant, in each case of nationally recognized standing, that is, in the good faith determination of Holdings, qualified to perform the task for which it has been engaged.

 

“Interest Payment Date” has the meaning set forth in Exhibit A hereto.

 

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“Investment Grade Rating” means a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moody’s and BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P, or an equivalent rating by any other Rating Agency.

 

“Investment Grade Securities” means:

 

(1)                                 securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government or any agency or instrumentality thereof (other than Cash Equivalents),

 

(2)                                 securities that have a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or equivalent) by Moody’s and BBB- (or equivalent) by S&P, but excluding any debt securities or loans or advances between and among Holdings and its Subsidiaries,

 

(3)                                 investments in any fund that invests exclusively in investments of the type described in clauses (1) and (2) which fund may also hold immaterial amounts of cash pending investment and/or distribution, and

 

(4)                                 corresponding instruments in countries other than the United States customarily utilized for high quality investments and in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition.

 

“Investments” means, with respect to any Person, all investments by such Person in other Persons (including Affiliates) in the form of loans (including guarantees), advances or capital contributions (excluding accounts receivable, trade credit and advances to customers and commission, travel and similar advances to officers, employees and consultants made in the ordinary course of business and any assets or securities received in satisfaction or partial satisfaction thereof from financially troubled account debtors to the extent reasonably necessary in order to prevent or limit loss and any prepayments and other credits to suppliers made in the ordinary course of business), purchases or other acquisitions for consideration of Indebtedness, Equity Interests or other securities issued by any other Person and investments that are required by GAAP to be classified on the balance sheet of such Person in the same manner as the other investments included in this definition to the extent such transactions involve the transfer of cash or other property. For purposes of the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary” and Section 4.04:

 

(1)                                 “Investments” shall include the portion (proportionate to Holdings’ equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of the net assets of a Subsidiary of Holdings at the time that such Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon a redesignation of such Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, Holdings shall be deemed to continue to have a permanent “Investment” in an Unrestricted Subsidiary equal to an amount (if positive) equal to:

 

(a)                                 Holdings’ “Investment” in such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation less

 

(b)                                 the portion (proportionate to Holdings’ equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of the net assets of such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation; and

 

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(2)                                 any property transferred to or from an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) at the time of such transfer, in each case as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Holdings.

 

“Issue Date” means May 28, 2015.

 

“Lien” means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or similar encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset, whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to sell or give a security interest in and any filing of or agreement to give any financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code (or equivalent statutes) of any jurisdiction); provided that in no event shall an operating lease or an agreement to sell be deemed to constitute a Lien.

 

“Management Group” means the group consisting of the directors, managers, executive officers and other management personnel of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as the case may be, on the Issue Date together with (1) any new directors or managers whose election by such boards of directors or managers or whose nomination for election by the shareholders of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable, was approved by a vote of a majority of the directors or managers of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable, then still in office who were either directors or managers on the Issue Date or whose election or nomination was previously so approved and (2) executive officers and other management personnel of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable, hired at a time when the directors or managers on the Issue Date together with the directors or managers so approved constituted a majority of the directors or managers of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable.

 

“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or any successor to the rating agency business thereof.

 

“Net Income” means, with respect to any Person, the net income (loss) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries, determined in accordance with GAAP and before any reduction in respect of Preferred Stock dividends.

 

“Net Proceeds” means the aggregate cash proceeds received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in respect of any Asset Sale (including, without limitation, any cash received in respect of or upon the sale or other disposition of any Designated Non-cash Consideration received in any Asset Sale and any cash payments received by way of deferred payment of principal pursuant to a note or installment receivable or otherwise, but only as and when received, but excluding the assumption by the acquiring person of Indebtedness relating to the disposed assets or other consideration received in any other non-cash form), net of the direct costs relating to such Asset Sale and the sale or disposition of such Designated Non-cash Consideration (including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and brokerage and sales commissions), and any relocation expenses Incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (including Tax Distributions and after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements related solely to such

 

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disposition), amounts required to be applied to the repayment of principal, premium (if any) and interest on Indebtedness required (other than pursuant to Section 4.06(b)(i)) to be paid as a result of such transaction, amounts paid in connection with the termination of Hedging Obligations related to Indebtedness repaid with such proceeds or hedging oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid production in notional volumes corresponding to the Oil and Gas Properties subject to such Asset Sale, and any deduction of appropriate amounts to be provided by Holdings as a reserve in accordance with GAAP against any liabilities associated with the asset disposed of in such transaction and retained by Holdings after such sale or other disposition thereof, including, without limitation, pension and other post-employment benefit liabilities and liabilities related to environmental matters or against any indemnification obligations associated with such transaction.

 

“Net Working Capital” means (a) all current assets of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, except current assets from commodity price risk management activities arising in the ordinary course of the Oil and Gas Business less (b) all current liabilities of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, except current liabilities (i) associated with asset retirement obligations relating to Oil and Gas Properties, (ii) included in Indebtedness and (iii) any current liabilities from commodity price risk management activities arising in the ordinary course of the Oil and Gas Business, in each case as set forth in the consolidated financial statements of Holdings prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Notes Obligations” means Obligations in respect of the Notes and this Indenture, including, for the avoidance of doubt, Obligations in respect of Exchange Notes and guarantees thereof.

 

“NYMEX” means the New York Mercantile Exchange.

 

“Obligations” means any principal, interest, penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements (including, without limitation, reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances), damages and other liabilities payable under the documentation governing any Indebtedness; provided that Obligations with respect to the Notes shall not include fees or indemnifications in favor of third parties other than the Trustee and the holders of the Notes.

 

“Offering Memorandum” means the offering memorandum, dated May 19, 2015, as supplemented or amended from time to time, relating to the issuance of the Initial Notes.

 

“Officer” means the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, any Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President or Vice President, the Treasurer or the Secretary of Holdings.

 

“Officers’ Certificate” means a certificate signed on behalf of Holdings by two Officers of Holdings, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer of Holdings, which meets the requirements set forth in this Indenture.

 

“Oil and Gas Business” means:

 

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(1)                                 the business of acquiring, exploring, exploiting, developing, producing, operating and disposing of interests in oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids, liquefied natural gas and other Hydrocarbons and mineral properties or products produced in association with any of the foregoing;

 

(2)                                 the business of gathering, marketing, distributing, treating, processing, storing, refining, selling and transporting of any production from such interests or properties and products produced in association therewith and the marketing of oil, natural gas, other Hydrocarbons and minerals obtained from unrelated Persons;

 

(3)                                 any other related energy business, including power generation and electrical transmission business, directly or indirectly, from oil, natural gas and other Hydrocarbons and minerals produced substantially from properties in which Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries, directly or indirectly, participate;

 

(4)                                 any business relating to oil field sales and service; and

 

(5)                                 any business or activity relating to, arising from, or necessary, appropriate, incidental or ancillary to the activities described in the foregoing clauses (1) through (4) of this definition.

 

“Oil and Gas Properties” means all properties, including equity or other ownership interests therein, owned by a Person which contain or are believed to contain oil and gas reserves or other reserves of Hydrocarbons.

 

“Opinion of Counsel” means a written opinion from legal counsel who is acceptable to the Trustee. The counsel may be an employee of or counsel to Holdings.

 

“Pari Passu Indebtedness” means: (a) with respect to an Issuer, the Notes and any Indebtedness which ranks pari passu in right of payment to the Notes; and (b) with respect to any Subsidiary Guarantor, its Subsidiary Guarantee and any Indebtedness which ranks pari passu in right of payment to such Subsidiary Guarantor’s Subsidiary Guarantee.

 

“Permitted Business Investment” means any Investment and/or expenditure of a nature that is or shall have become customary in the Oil and Gas Business generally or in the geographic region in which such activities occur, including investments or expenditures for actively exploiting, exploring for, acquiring, developing, producing, processing, gathering, marketing, distributing, storing, or transporting oil, natural gas or other Hydrocarbons and minerals (including with respect to plugging and abandonment) through agreements, transactions, interests or arrangements which permit one to share risks or costs, comply with regulatory requirements regarding local ownership or satisfy other objectives customarily achieved through the conduct of the Oil and Gas Business jointly with third parties, including:

 

(1)                                 Investments in ownership interests (including equity or other ownership interests) in oil, natural gas, other Hydrocarbons and minerals properties, liquefied natural gas facilities, processing facilities, gathering systems, pipelines, storage facilities or related systems or ancillary real property interests;

 

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(2)                                 Investments in the form of or pursuant to operating agreements, working interests, royalty interests, mineral leases, processing agreements, Farm-In Agreements, Farm-Out Agreements, contracts for the sale, transportation or exchange of oil, natural gas, other Hydrocarbons and minerals, production sharing agreements, participation agreements, development agreements, area of mutual interest agreements, unitization agreements, pooling agreements, joint bidding agreements, service contracts, joint venture agreements, partnership agreements (whether general or limited), subscription agreements, stock purchase agreements, stockholder agreements and other similar agreements (including for limited liability companies) with third parties; and

 

(3)                                 Investments in direct or indirect ownership interests in drilling rigs and related equipment, including, without limitation, transportation equipment.

 

“Permitted Holders” means, at any time, each of (i) the Sponsors, (ii) the Management Group, (iii) any Person that has no material assets other than the Capital Stock of Holdings and, directly or indirectly, holds or acquires 100% of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Holdings, and of which no other Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), other than any of the other Permitted Holders specified in clauses (i) and (ii) above, holds more than 50% of the total voting power of the Voting Stock thereof and (iv) any group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision) the members of which include any of the Permitted Holders specified in clauses (i) and (ii) above and that, directly or indirectly, hold or acquire beneficial ownership of the Voting Stock of Holdings (a “Permitted Holder Group”), so long as (1) each member of the Permitted Holder Group has voting rights proportional to the percentage of ownership interests held or acquired by such member and (2) no Person or other “group” (other than Permitted Holders specified in clauses (i) and (ii) above) beneficially owns more than 50% on a fully diluted basis of the Voting Stock held by the Permitted Holder Group. Any Person or group whose acquisition of beneficial ownership constitutes a Change of Control in respect of which a Change of Control Offer is made in accordance with the requirements of this Indenture will thereafter, together with its Affiliates, constitute an additional Permitted Holder.

 

“Permitted Investments” means:

 

(1)                                 any Investment in Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(2)                                 any Investment in Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities;

 

(3)                                 any Investment by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in a Person if as a result of such Investment (a) such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary, or (b) such Person, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys all or substantially all of its assets to, or is liquidated into, Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(4)                                 any Investment in securities or other assets not constituting Cash Equivalents and received in connection with an Asset Sale made pursuant to Section 4.06 or any other disposition of assets not constituting an Asset Sale;

 

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(5)                                 any Investment existing on, or made pursuant to binding commitments existing on, the Issue Date or an Investment consisting of any extension, modification or renewal of any Investment existing on the Issue Date; provided that the amount of any such Investment may be increased (x) as required by the terms of such Investment as in existence on the Issue Date or (y) as otherwise permitted under this Indenture;

 

(6)                                 loans and advances to officers, directors, managers, employees or consultants of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, taken together with all other advances made pursuant to this clause (6), not to exceed $25.0 million at any one time outstanding;

 

(7)                                 any Investment acquired by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (a) in exchange for any other Investment or accounts receivable held by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary in connection with or as a result of a bankruptcy, workout, reorganization or recapitalization of the issuer of such other Investment or accounts receivable, or (b) as a result of a foreclosure by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary with respect to any secured Investment or other transfer of title with respect to any secured Investment in default;

 

(8)                                 Hedging Obligations permitted under Section 4.03(b)(x);

 

(9)                                 any Investment by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in a Similar Business having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings), taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (9) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (x) $350.0 million and (y) 5% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of such Investment, plus an amount equal to any returns (including dividends, interest, distributions, returns of principal, profits on sale, repayments, income and similar amounts) actually received in respect of any such Investment made pursuant to this clause (9) (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided, however, that if any Investment pursuant to this clause (9) is made in any Person that is not Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary at the date of the making of such Investment and such Person becomes Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary after such date, such Investment shall thereafter be deemed to have been made pursuant to clause (1) above and shall cease to have been made pursuant to this clause (9) for so long as such Person continues to be Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(10)                          additional Investments by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings), taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (10) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (x) $350.0 million and (y) 5% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of such Investment, plus an amount equal to any returns (including dividends, interest, distributions, returns of principal, profits on sale, repayments, income and similar amounts) actually received in respect of any such Investment made pursuant to this clause (10) (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided, however, that if any Investment pursuant to this clause

 

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(10) is made in any Person that is not Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary at the date of the making of such Investment and such Person becomes Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary after such date, such Investment shall thereafter be deemed to have been made pursuant to clause (1) above and shall cease to have been made pursuant to this clause (10) for so long as such Person continues to be Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(11)                          loans and advances to officers, directors, managers or employees for business-related travel expenses, moving expenses, payroll payments and expenses and other similar expenses, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business or consistent with past practice or to fund such person’s purchase of Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings;

 

(12)                          Investments the payment for which consists of Equity Interests of Holdings (other than Disqualified Stock) or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, as applicable; provided, however, that such Equity Interests will not increase the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (3) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit”;

 

(13)                          any transaction to the extent it constitutes an Investment that is permitted by and made in accordance with the provisions of Section 4.07(b) (except transactions described in clauses (ii), (iv), (vi), (ix)(B) and (xvi) of Section 4.07(b));

 

(14)                          Investments consisting of the licensing or contribution of intellectual property pursuant to joint marketing arrangements with other Persons;

 

(15)                          (x) guarantees issued in accordance with Section 4.03 and Section 4.11 including, without limitation, any guarantee or other obligation issued or Incurred under the Credit Agreement in connection with any letter of credit issued for the account of Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries (including with respect to the issuance of, or payments in respect of drawings under, such letters of credit) and (y) guarantees of performance or other obligations (other than Indebtedness) arising in the ordinary course in the Oil and Gas Business, including obligations under Hydrocarbon exploration, development, joint operating and related agreements and licenses, concessions or operating leases related to the Oil and Gas Business;

 

(16)                          Investments consisting of or to finance purchases and acquisitions of inventory, supplies, materials, services or equipment or purchases of contract rights or licenses or leases of intellectual property;

 

(17)                          any Investment in a Receivables Subsidiary or any Investment by a Receivables Subsidiary in any other Person in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing, including Investments of funds held in accounts permitted or required by the arrangements governing such Qualified Receivables Financing or any related Indebtedness;

 

(18)                          any Investment in an entity which is not a Restricted Subsidiary to which a Restricted Subsidiary sells accounts receivable pursuant to a Receivables Financing;

 

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(19)                          additional Investments in joint ventures not to exceed, at any one time in the aggregate outstanding under this clause (19), $100.0 million, plus an amount equal to any returns (including dividends, interest, distributions, returns of principal, profits on sale, repayments, income and similar amounts) actually received in respect of any such Investment made pursuant to this clause (19) (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time such Investment is made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided, however, that if any Investment pursuant to this clause (19) is made in any Person that is not Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary at the date of the making of such Investment and such Person becomes Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary after such date, such Investment shall thereafter be deemed to have been made pursuant to clause (1) above and shall cease to have been made pursuant to this clause (19) for so long as such Person continues to be Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(20)                          Investments of a Restricted Subsidiary acquired after the Issue Date or of an entity merged into, amalgamated with, or consolidated with Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary in a transaction that is not prohibited by Section 5.01 after the Issue Date to the extent that such Investments were not made in contemplation of such acquisition, merger, amalgamation or consolidation and were in existence on the date of such acquisition, merger, amalgamation or consolidation;

 

(21)                          any Investment in any Subsidiary of Holdings or any joint venture in connection with intercompany cash management arrangements or related activities arising in the ordinary course of business; and

 

(22)                          Permitted Business Investments.

 

“Permitted Liens” means, with respect to any Person:

 

(1)                                 pledges or deposits and other Liens granted by such Person under workmen’s compensation laws, unemployment insurance laws or similar legislation, or good faith deposits in connection with bids, tenders, contracts (other than for the payment of Indebtedness) or leases to which such Person is a party, or deposits to secure plugging and abandonment obligations or public or statutory obligations of such Person or deposits of cash or U.S. government bonds to secure surety or appeal bonds to which such Person is a party, or deposits as security for contested taxes or import duties or for the payment of rent, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business;

 

(2)                                 Liens imposed by law, such as landlord’s, carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, materialmen’s, repairmen’s, construction or other like Liens securing obligations that are not overdue by more than 30 days or that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings or other Liens arising out of judgments or awards against such Person with respect to which such Person shall then be proceeding with an appeal or other proceedings for review;

 

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(3)                                 Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges not yet overdue by more than 30 days or, if overdue by more than 30 days, are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings;

 

(4)                                 Liens in favor of issuers of performance and surety bonds or bid bonds or with respect to other regulatory requirements or letters of credit, bankers’ acceptances or similar obligations issued pursuant to the request of and for the account of such Person in the ordinary course of its business;

 

(5)                                 minor survey exceptions, minor encumbrances, easements or reservations of, or rights of others for, licenses, rights-of-way, sewers, electric lines, telegraph and telephone lines and other similar purposes, servicing agreements, development agreements, site plan agreements and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business or zoning or other restrictions as to the use of real properties or Liens incidental to the conduct of the business of such Person or to the ownership of its properties which were not Incurred in connection with Indebtedness and which do not in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of said properties or materially impair their use in the operation of the business of such Person;

 

(6)                                 (A)                               Liens on assets of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor securing Indebtedness of such Restricted Subsidiary permitted to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03;

 

(B)                               Liens securing Indebtedness Incurred under the Credit Agreement, including any letter of credit facility relating thereto, that was permitted to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(i);

 

(C)                               Liens securing Indebtedness Incurred under the RBL Facility in excess of $2,000 million (and solely to the extent of such excess), including any letter of credit facility relating thereto, that was permitted to be Incurred under Section 4.03; and

 

(D)                               Liens securing Indebtedness permitted to be Incurred pursuant to clause (ii)(B), (iv), (xii), (xvi) or (xx) of Section 4.03(b) (provided that in the case of clause (xx), such Lien does not extend to the property or assets of any Subsidiary of Holdings other than a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor).

 

(7)                                 Liens existing on the Issue Date (other than Liens in favor of the lenders under the Credit Agreement, the holders of the Secured Notes or the lenders under the Term Loan Facility);

 

(8)                                 Liens on assets, property or shares of stock of a Person at the time such Person becomes a Subsidiary (and such other assets, property or shares of stock subject to after-acquired property clauses in effect with respect to such Lien at the time of acquisition on property of the type that would have been subject to such Lien notwithstanding the occurrence of such acquisition); provided, however, that such Liens are not created or Incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person

 

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becoming such a Subsidiary; provided, further, however, that such Liens may not extend to any other property owned by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than such Person or its Restricted Subsidiary);

 

(9)                                 Liens on assets or property at the time Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary acquired the assets or property, including any acquisition by means of a merger, amalgamation or consolidation with or into Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that such Liens (other than Liens to secure Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xvi)) are not created or Incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition; provided, further, however, that the Liens (other than Liens to secure Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xvi)) may not extend to any other property owned by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than pursuant to after-acquired property clauses in effect with respect to such Lien at the time of acquisition on property of the type that would have been subject to such Lien notwithstanding the occurrence of such acquisition);

 

(10)                          Liens securing Indebtedness or other obligations of Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary owing to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary permitted to be Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03;

 

(11)                          Liens securing Hedging Obligations not Incurred in violation of this Indenture; provided that with respect to Hedging Obligations relating to Indebtedness, such Lien extends only to the property securing such Indebtedness;

 

(12)                          Liens on specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of any Person securing such Person’s obligations in respect of documentary letters of credit, bank guarantees or bankers’ acceptances issued or created for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or other goods;

 

(13)                          leases and subleases of real property which do not materially interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(14)                          Liens arising from Uniform Commercial Code financing statement filings regarding operating leases or other obligations not constituting Indebtedness;

 

(15)                          Liens in favor of Holdings or any Subsidiary Guarantor;

 

(16)                          Liens on accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of “Receivables Financing” Incurred in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing;

 

(17)                          pledges and deposits and other Liens made in the ordinary course of business to secure liability to insurance carriers;

 

(18)                          Liens on the Equity Interests of Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

 

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(19)                          leases or subleases, and licenses or sublicences (including with respect to intellectual property) granted to others in the ordinary course of business;

 

(20)                          Liens to secure any refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement (or successive refinancings, refundings, extensions, renewals or replacements) as a whole, or in part, of any Indebtedness secured by any Lien referred to in the foregoing clauses (6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (11) and (15); provided, however, that (x) such new Lien shall be limited to all or part of the same property (including any after-acquired property to the extent it would have been subject to the original Lien) that secured the original Lien (plus improvements on and accessions to such property, proceeds and products thereof, customary security deposits and any other assets pursuant to the after-acquired property clauses to the extent such assets secured (or would have secured) the Indebtedness being refinanced, refunded, extended, renewed or replaced), and (y) the Indebtedness secured by such Lien at such time is not increased to any amount greater than the sum of (A) the outstanding principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) or, if greater, committed amount of the Indebtedness described under clauses (6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (11) and (15) at the time the original Lien became a Permitted Lien under this Indenture, and (B) unpaid accrued interest and premiums (including tender premiums) and (C) an amount necessary to pay any underwriting discounts, defeasance costs, commissions, fees and expenses related to such refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement; provided, further, however, that in the case of any Liens to secure any refinancing, refunding, extension or renewal of Indebtedness secured by a Lien referred to in clause (6)(B), the principal amount of any Indebtedness Incurred for such refinancing, refunding, extension or renewal shall be deemed secured by a Lien under clause (6)(B) and not this clause (20) for purposes of determining the principal amount of Indebtedness outstanding under clause (6)(B);

 

(21)                          Liens on equipment of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary granted in the ordinary course of business to Holdings’ or such Restricted Subsidiary’s client at which such equipment is located;

 

(22)                          judgment and attachment Liens not giving rise to an Event of Default and notices of lis pendens and associated rights related to litigation being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been made;

 

(23)                          Liens arising out of conditional sale, title retention, consignment or similar arrangements for the sale or purchase of goods entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(24)                          Liens Incurred to secure cash management services or to implement cash pooling arrangements in the ordinary course of business;

 

(25)                          other Liens securing obligations the outstanding principal amount of which does not, taken together with the principal amount of all other obligations secured by Liens Incurred under this clause (25) that are at that time outstanding, exceed the greater of $350.0 million and 5% Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of Incurrence;

 

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(26)                          any encumbrance or restriction (including put and call arrangements) with respect to Capital Stock of any joint venture or similar arrangement securing obligations of such joint venture or pursuant to any joint venture or similar agreement;

 

(27)                          any amounts held by a trustee in the funds and accounts under an indenture securing any revenue bonds issued for the benefit of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, under any indenture issued in escrow pursuant to customary escrow arrangements pending the release thereof, or under any indenture pursuant to customary discharge, redemption or defeasance provisions;

 

(28)                          Liens (i) arising by virtue of any statutory or common law provisions relating to banker’s Liens, rights of set-off or similar rights and remedies as to deposit accounts or other funds maintained with a depository or financial institution, (ii) attaching to commodity trading accounts or other commodity brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business or (iii) encumbering reasonable customary initial deposits and margin deposits and similar Liens attaching to brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business and not for speculative purposes;

 

(29)                          Liens arising out of judgments or awards against such Person with respect to which such Person shall then be proceeding with any appeal or other proceedings for review;

 

(30)                          Liens (i) in favor of credit card companies pursuant to agreements therewith and (ii) in favor of customers;

 

(31)                          Liens in respect of Production Payments and Reserve Sales;

 

(32)                          Liens arising under Farm-Out Agreements, Farm-In Agreements, division orders, contracts for the sale, purchase, exchange, transportation, gathering or processing of Hydrocarbons, unitizations and pooling designations, declarations, orders and agreements, development agreements, joint venture agreements, partnership agreements, operating agreements, royalties, royalty trusts, master limited partnerships, working interests, net profits interests, joint interest billing arrangements, participation agreements, production sales contracts, area of mutual interest agreements, gas balancing or deferred production agreements, injection, repressuring and recycling agreements, salt water or other disposal agreements, seismic or geophysical permits or agreements, and other agreements which are customary in the Oil and Gas Business; provided, however, in all instances that such Liens are limited to the assets that are the subject of the relevant agreement, program, order, trust, partnership or contract;

 

(33)                          Liens on pipelines or pipeline facilities that arise by operation of law; and

 

(34)                          any (a) interest or title of a lessor or sublessor under any lease, liens reserved in oil, gas or other Hydrocarbons, minerals, leases for bonus, royalty or rental payments and for compliance with the terms of such leases; (b) restriction or encumbrance that the interest or title of such lessor or sublessor may be subject to (including, without limitation, ground leases or other prior leases of the demised premises, mortgages, mechanics’ liens, tax liens and easements); or (c) subordination of

 

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the interest of the lessee or sublessee under such lease to any restrictions or encumbrance referred to in the preceding clause (b).

 

“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, government or any agency or political subdivision thereof or any other entity.

 

“Preferred Stock” means any Equity Interest with preferential right of payment of dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up.

 

“Production Payments and Reserve Sales” means the grant or transfer by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary to any Person of a royalty, overriding royalty, net profits interest, production payment (whether volumetric or dollar-denominated), partnership or other interest in Oil and Gas Properties, reserves or the right to receive all or a portion of the production or the proceeds from the sale of production attributable to such properties where the holder of such interest has recourse solely to such production or proceeds of production, subject to the obligation of the grantor or transferor to operate and maintain, or cause the subject interests to be operated and maintained, in a reasonably prudent manner or other customary standard or subject to the obligation of the grantor or transferor to indemnify for environmental, title or other matters customary in the Oil and Gas Business, including any such grants or transfers.

 

“Qualified Receivables Financing” means any Receivables Financing of a Receivables Subsidiary that meets the following conditions:

 

(1)                                 the Board of Directors of Holdings shall have determined in good faith that such Qualified Receivables Financing (including financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions) is in the aggregate economically fair and reasonable to Holdings and the Receivables Subsidiary;

 

(2)                                 all sales of accounts receivable and related assets to the Receivables Subsidiary are made at Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings); and

 

(3)                                 the financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions thereof shall be market terms (as determined in good faith by Holdings) and may include Standard Securitization Undertakings.

 

The grant of a security interest in any accounts receivable of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Receivables Subsidiary) to secure Bank Indebtedness, Indebtedness in respect of the Notes or any Refinancing Indebtedness with respect to the Notes shall not be deemed a Qualified Receivables Financing.

 

“Rating Agency” means (1) each of Moody’s and S&P and (2) if Moody’s or S&P ceases to rate the Notes for reasons outside of Holdings’ control, a “nationally recognized statistical rating organization” within the meaning of Rule 15cs-1(c)(2)(vi)(F) under the Exchange Act selected by Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings as a replacement agency for Moody’s or S&P, as the case may be.

 

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“RBL Facility” means the credit agreement dated as of May 24, 2012 by and among Holdings, the guarantors named therein, the financial institutions named therein, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, as amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original lenders or other lenders), restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time pursuant to any amendment thereto or pursuant to a new loan agreement with other lenders, governed by a borrowing base set by the lenders, extending the maturity thereof, refinancing, replacing or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness under such agreement or under any successor or replacement agreement or increasing the amount loaned thereunder or altering the maturity thereof.

 

“Receivables Fees” means distributions or payments made directly or by means of discounts with respect to any participation interests issued or sold in connection with, and all other fees paid to a Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary in connection with, any Receivables Financing.

 

“Receivables Financing” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries pursuant to which Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries may sell, convey or otherwise transfer to (a) a Receivables Subsidiary (in the case of a transfer by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries); and (b) any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a Receivables Subsidiary), or may grant a security interest in, any accounts receivable (whether now existing or arising in the future) of Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation, all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable, proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets which are customarily transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts receivable and any Hedging Obligations entered into by Holdings or any such Subsidiary in connection with such accounts receivable.

 

“Receivables Repurchase Obligation” means any obligation of a seller of receivables in a Qualified Receivables Financing to repurchase receivables arising as a result of a breach of a representation, warranty or covenant or otherwise, including as a result of a receivable or portion thereof becoming subject to any asserted defense, dispute, off-set or counterclaim of any kind as a result of any action taken by, any failure to take action by or any other event relating to the seller.

 

“Receivables Subsidiary” means a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary (or another Person formed for the purposes of engaging in Qualified Receivables Financing with Holdings in which Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings makes an Investment and to which Holdings or any such Subsidiary transfers accounts receivable and related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, all proceeds thereof and all rights (contractual or other), collateral and other assets relating thereto, and any business or activities incidental or related to such business, and which is designated by the Board of Directors of Holdings (as provided below) as a Receivables Subsidiary and:

 

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(a)                                 no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by Holdings or any other Subsidiary of Holdings (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates Holdings or any other Subsidiary in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, or (iii) subjects any property or asset of Holdings or any other Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings;

 

(b)                                 with which neither Holdings nor any Subsidiary has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms which Holdings reasonably believes to be no less favorable to Holdings or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of Holdings; and

 

(c)                                  to which neither Holdings nor any Subsidiary has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results.

 

Any such designation by the Board of Directors of Holdings shall be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the Trustee a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of Holdings giving effect to such designation and an Officers’ Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.

 

“Record Date” has the meaning specified in Exhibit A hereto.

 

“Registration Rights Agreement” means (a) with respect to the Initial Notes issued on the Issue Date, the Registration Rights Agreement dated the Issue Date, among the Issuers and the Initial Purchasers, and (b) with respect to each issuance of Additional Notes issued in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, the registration rights agreement, if any, among the Issuers, any Subsidiary Guarantors and the Persons purchasing such Additional Notes under the related purchase agreement.

 

“Restricted Investment” means an Investment other than a Permitted Investment.

 

“Restricted Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person, any Subsidiary of such Person other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary of such Person. Unless otherwise indicated in this Indenture, all references to Restricted Subsidiaries shall mean Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings.

 

“Sale/Leaseback Transaction” means an arrangement relating to property now owned or hereafter acquired by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary whereby Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary transfers such property to a Person and Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary leases it from such Person, other than leases between Holdings and a Restricted Subsidiary or between Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group or any successor to the rating agency business thereof.

 

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“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

“Secured Indebtedness” means any Consolidated Total Indebtedness secured by a Lien.

 

“Secured Notes” means the Issuers’ 6.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 issued on April 24, 2012 (including any exchange notes issued in exchange therefor pursuant to a registration rights agreement dated as of April 24, 2012) pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 24, 2012 by and among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, as it may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.

 

“Significant Subsidiary” means any Restricted Subsidiary that would be a “Significant Subsidiary” of Holdings within the meaning of Rule 1-02 under Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC (or any successor provision).

 

“Similar Business” means any business, the majority of whose revenues are derived from (i) the business or activities of Holdings and its Subsidiaries anticipated to be conducted as of the Issue Date, (ii) any business that is a natural outgrowth or a reasonable extension, development or expansion of any such business or any business similar, reasonably related, incidental, complementary or ancillary to any of the foregoing or (iii) any business that in Holdings’ good faith business judgment constitutes a reasonable diversification of business conducted by Holdings and its Subsidiaries.

 

“Sponsor Management Agreement” means the management agreement between certain of the management companies associated with the Sponsors, EP Energy Corporation, EP Energy Global LLC and EPE Acquisition, LLC.

 

“Sponsors” means (i) affiliates of each of Apollo Global Management, LLC, Access Industries, Inc. and Riverstone Holdings, L.P. and other investors party to that certain Interim Investors Agreement dated as of February 24, 2012 (the “Interim Investors Agreement”) and any other investors that became party to the Interim Investors Agreement prior to or upon the consummation of the Acquisition and any of their respective Affiliates other than any portfolio companies (collectively, the “Equity Investor”) and (ii) any Person that forms a group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision) with the Equity Investor; provided that the Equity Investor (x) owns a majority of the voting power and (y) controls a majority of the Board of Directors of Holdings.

 

“Standard Securitization Undertakings” means representations, warranties, covenants, indemnities and guarantees of performance entered into by Holdings or any Subsidiary thereof which Holdings has determined in good faith to be customary in a Receivables Financing including, without limitation, those relating to the servicing of the assets of a Receivables Subsidiary, it being understood that any Receivables Repurchase Obligation shall be deemed to be a Standard Securitization Undertaking.

 

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“Stated Maturity” means, with respect to any security, the date specified in such security as the fixed date on which the final payment of principal of such security is due and payable, including pursuant to any mandatory redemption provision (but excluding any provision providing for the repurchase of such security at the option of the holder thereof upon the happening of any contingency beyond the control of the issuer unless such contingency has occurred).

 

“Subordinated Indebtedness” means (a) with respect to an Issuer, any Indebtedness of the Issuer which is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to the Notes, and (b) with respect to any Subsidiary Guarantor, any Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor which is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to its Subsidiary Guarantee.

 

“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person, (1) any corporation, association or other business entity (other than a partnership, joint venture or limited liability company) of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time of determination owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof, and (2) any partnership, joint venture or limited liability company of which (x) more than 50% of the capital accounts, distribution rights, total equity and voting interests or general and limited partnership interests, as applicable, are owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof, whether in the form of membership, general, special or limited partnership interests or otherwise, and (y) such Person or any Subsidiary of such Person is a controlling general partner or otherwise controls such entity.

 

“Subsidiary Guarantee” means any guarantee of the obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Notes by any Subsidiary Guarantor in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture.

 

“Subsidiary Guarantor” means any Subsidiary that Incurs a Subsidiary Guarantee; provided that upon the release or discharge of such Person from its Subsidiary Guarantee in accordance with this Indenture, such Subsidiary ceases to be a Subsidiary Guarantor.

 

“Suspension Period” means the period of time between a Covenant Suspension Event and the related Reversion Date.

 

“Tax Distributions” means any distributions described in Section 4.04(b)(xii).

 

“Term Loan Facility” means the term loan agreement, dated as of April 24, 2012, by and among Holdings, as borrower, the lenders party thereto in their capacities as lenders thereunder and Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent and collateral agent, including any guarantees, instruments and agreements executed in connection therewith, and any amendments, supplements, modifications or restatements thereof.

 

“TIA” means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. Sections 77aaa-77bbbb) as in effect on the date of this Indenture.

 

42

 

“Total Assets” means the total consolidated assets of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, as shown on the most recent balance sheet of Holdings, without giving effect to any amortization of the amount of intangible assets since December 31, 2011, calculated on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any subsequent acquisition or disposition of a Person or business.

 

“Transactions” means the “Refinancing Transactions” as defined and described under “Summary—Recent Events—Tender Offer” in the Offering Memorandum.

 

“Treasury Rate” means, as of the applicable redemption date, as determined by the Issuers, the yield to maturity as of such redemption date of United States Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15 (519) that has become publicly available at least two Business Days prior to such redemption date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published, any publicly available source of similar market data)) most nearly equal to the period from such redemption date to June 15, 2018; provided, however, that if the period from such redemption date to June 15, 2018, as applicable, is less than one year, the weekly average yield on actually traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year will be used.

 

“Trustee” means the party named as such in this Indenture until a successor replaces it and, thereafter, means the successor.

 

“Trust Officer” means:

 

(1)                                 any officer within the corporate trust department of the Trustee, including any vice president, assistant vice president, assistant secretary, assistant treasurer, trust officer or any other officer of the Trustee who customarily performs functions similar to those performed by the Persons who at the time shall be such officers, respectively, or to whom any corporate trust matter is referred because of such person’s knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject, and

 

(2)                                 who shall have direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture.

 

“Uniform Commercial Code” or “UCC” means the New York Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time.

 

“Unrestricted Subsidiary” means:

 

(1)                                 any Subsidiary of Holdings that at the time of determination shall be designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary by the Board of Directors of Holdings in the manner provided below; and

 

(2)                                 any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary;

 

Holdings may designate any Subsidiary of Holdings (including any newly acquired or newly formed Subsidiary) to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless such Subsidiary or any of its Subsidiaries owns any Equity Interests or Indebtedness of, or owns or holds any Lien

 

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on any property of, Holdings or any other Subsidiary of Holdings that is not a Subsidiary of the Subsidiary to be so designated; provided, however, that the Subsidiary to be so designated and its Subsidiaries do not at the time of designation have and do not thereafter Incur any Indebtedness pursuant to which the lender has recourse to any of the assets of Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries (other than pursuant to customary Liens on related arrangements under any oil and gas royalty trust or master limited partnership), unless otherwise permitted as an Investment in such Unrestricted Subsidiary by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary under Section 4.04; provided, further, however, that either:

 

(a)                                 the Subsidiary to be so designated has total consolidated assets of $1,000 or less; or

 

(b)                                 if such Subsidiary has consolidated assets greater than $1,000, then such designation would be permitted under Section 4.04.

 

Holdings may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that immediately after giving effect to such designation:

 

(x)                                 (1) Holdings could Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in Section 4.03(a) or (2) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be no less than such ratio immediately prior to such designation, in each case on a pro forma basis taking into account such designation, and

 

(y)                                 no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

 

Any such designation by Holdings shall be evidenced to the Trustee by promptly filing with the Trustee a copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof of Holdings giving effect to such designation and an Officers’ Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing provisions.

 

“U.S. Government Obligations” means securities that are:

 

(1)                                 direct obligations of the United States of America for the timely payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or

 

(2)                                 obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States of America, the timely payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the United States of America,

 

which, in each case, are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof, and shall also include a depository receipt issued by a bank (as defined in Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act) as custodian with respect to any such U.S. Government Obligations or a specific payment of principal of or interest on any such U.S. Government Obligations held by such custodian for the account of the holder of such depository receipt; provided that (except as required by law) such custodian is not authorized to make any deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in

 

44

 

respect of the U.S. Government Obligations or the specific payment of principal of or interest on the U.S. Government Obligations evidenced by such depository receipt.

 

“Volumetric Production Payments” means production payment obligations recorded as deferred revenue in accordance with GAAP, together with all undertaking and obligations in connection therewith.

 

“Voting Stock” of any Person as of any date means the Capital Stock of such Person that is at the time entitled to vote in the election of the Board of Directors of such Person.

 

“Weighted Average Life to Maturity” means, when applied to any Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as the case may be, at any date, the quotient obtained by dividing (1) the sum of the products of the number of years from the date of determination to the date of each successive scheduled principal payment of such Indebtedness or redemption or similar payment with respect to such Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock multiplied by the amount of such payment, by (2) the sum of all such payments.

 

“Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary” is any Wholly Owned Subsidiary that is a Restricted Subsidiary.

 

“Wholly Owned Subsidiary” of any Person means a Subsidiary of such Person 100% of the outstanding Capital Stock or other ownership interests of which (other than directors’ qualifying shares or shares required pursuant to applicable law) shall at the time be owned by such Person or by one or more Wholly Owned Subsidiaries of such Person.

 

SECTION 1.02              Other Definitions.

 

	
Term
    	
 
    	
Section
    
	
$
    	
 
    	
1.03(j)
    
	
Additional Interest
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Affiliate Transaction
    	
 
    	
4.07(a)
    
	
Agent Members
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Asset Sale Offer
    	
 
    	
4.06(b)(iii)
    
	
Bankruptcy Law
    	
 
    	
6.01
    
	
Change of Control Offer
    	
 
    	
4.08(b)
    
	
Co-Issuer
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    
	
covenant defeasance option
    	
 
    	
8.01(b)
    
	
Covenant Suspension Event
    	
 
    	
4.15
    
	
Custodian
    	
 
    	
6.01
    
	
Definitive Note
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Depository
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Event of Default
    	
 
    	
6.01
    
	
Excess Proceeds
    	
 
    	
4.06(b)(iii)
    
	
Global Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Global Notes Legend
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Holdings
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    

 

45

 

	
Term
    	
 
    	
Section
    
	
IAI
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Increased Amount
    	
 
    	
4.12(d)
    
	
Initial Notes
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    
	
Initial Purchasers
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Issuers
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    
	
legal defeasance option
    	
 
    	
8.01(b)
    
	
Notes
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    
	
Notes Custodian
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Notice of Default
    	
 
    	
6.01
    
	
Offer Period
    	
 
    	
4.06(d)
    
	
Paying Agent
    	
 
    	
2.04(a)
    
	
protected purchaser
    	
 
    	
2.08
    
	
QIB
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Refinancing Indebtedness
    	
 
    	
4.03(b)(xv)
    
	
Refunding Capital Stock
    	
 
    	
4.04(b)(ii)
    
	
Registered Exchange Offer
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Registrar
    	
 
    	
2.04(a)
    
	
Regulation S
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Regulation S Global Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Regulation S Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Restricted Notes Legend
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Restricted Payments
    	
 
    	
4.04(a)
    
	
Restricted Period
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Retired Capital Stock
    	
 
    	
4.04(b)(ii)
    
	
Reversion Date
    	
 
    	
4.15
    
	
Rule 144A
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Rule 144A Global Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Rule 144A Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Rule 501
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Second Commitment
    	
 
    	
4.06(b)(iii)
    
	
Shelf Registration Statement
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations
    	
 
    	
12.01(a)
    
	
Successor Holdco
    	
 
    	
5.01(a)(i)
    
	
Successor Subsidiary Guarantor
    	
 
    	
5.01(b)(i)
    
	
Suspended Covenants
    	
 
    	
4.15
    
	
Transfer
    	
 
    	
5.01(b)(ii)
    
	
Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Transfer Restricted Global Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Transfer Restricted Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Trustee
    	
 
    	
Preamble
    
	
U.S. dollars
    	
 
    	
1.03(j)
    
	
Unrestricted Definitive Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    
	
Unrestricted Global Notes
    	
 
    	
Appendix A
    

 

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SECTION 1.03              Rules of Construction.  Unless the context otherwise requires:

 

(a)                                 a term has the meaning assigned to it;

 

(b)                                 an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with GAAP;

 

(c)                                  “or” is not exclusive;

 

(d)                                 “including” means including without limitation;

 

(e)                                  words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular;

 

(f)                                   unsecured Indebtedness shall not be deemed to be subordinate or junior to Secured Indebtedness merely by virtue of its nature as unsecured Indebtedness;

 

(g)                                  the principal amount of any non-interest bearing or other discount security at any date shall be the principal amount thereof that would be shown on a balance sheet of the issuer dated such date prepared in accordance with GAAP;

 

(h)                                 the principal amount of any Preferred Stock shall be (i) the maximum liquidation value of such Preferred Stock or (ii) the maximum mandatory redemption or mandatory repurchase price with respect to such Preferred Stock, whichever is greater;

 

(i)                                     unless otherwise specified herein, all accounting terms used herein shall be interpreted, all accounting determinations hereunder shall be made, and all financial statements required to be delivered hereunder shall be prepared in accordance with GAAP;

 

(j)                                    “$” and “U.S. dollars” each refer to United States dollars, or such other money of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts; and

 

(k)                                 whenever in this Indenture or the Notes there is mentioned, in any context, principal, interest or any other amount payable under or with respect to any Notes, such mention shall be deemed to include mention of the payment of Additional Interest, to the extent that, in such context, Additional Interest is, was or would be payable in respect thereof.

 

ARTICLE II

 

THE NOTES

 

SECTION 2.01              Amount of Notes.  The aggregate principal amount of Notes which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture on the Issue Date is $800,000,000.

 

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The Issuers may from time to time after the Issue Date issue Additional Notes under this Indenture in an unlimited principal amount, so long as (i) the Incurrence of the Indebtedness represented by such Additional Notes is at such time permitted by Section 4.03 and (ii) such Additional Notes are issued in compliance with the other applicable provisions of this Indenture.  With respect to any Additional Notes issued after the Issue Date (except for Notes authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Notes pursuant to Section 2.07, 2.08, 2.09, 3.06, 4.06(e), 4.08(c) or Appendix A), there shall be (a) established in or pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors and (b) (i) set forth or determined in the manner provided in an Officers’ Certificate or (ii) established in one or more indentures supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of such Additional Notes:

 

(1)                                 the aggregate principal amount of such Additional Notes which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture;

 

(2)                                 the issue price and issuance date of such Additional Notes, including the date from which interest on such Additional Notes shall accrue;

 

(3)                                 if applicable, that such Additional Notes shall be issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global Notes and, in such case, the respective depositaries for such Global Notes, the form of any legend or legends which shall be borne by such Global Notes in addition to or in lieu of those set forth in Exhibit A hereto and any circumstances in addition to or in lieu of those set forth in Section 2.2 of Appendix A in which any such Global Note may be exchanged in whole or in part for Additional Notes registered, or any transfer of such Global Note in whole or in part may be registered, in the name or names of Persons other than the depositary for such Global Note or a nominee thereof; and

 

(4)                                 if applicable, that such Additional Notes that are not Transfer Restricted Notes shall not be issued in the form of Initial Notes as set forth in Exhibit A hereto but shall be issued in the form of Exchange Notes as set forth in Exhibit B hereto.

 

If any of the terms of any Additional Notes are established by action taken pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors, a copy of an appropriate record of such action shall be certified by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of Holdings and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officers’ Certificate or an indenture supplemental hereto setting forth the terms of the Additional Notes.

 

The Initial Notes, including any Additional Notes, may, at the Issuers’ option, be treated as a single class for all purposes under this Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase; provided that if the Additional Notes are not fungible with the Initial Notes for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Additional Notes will have a separate CUSIP number, if applicable.

 

SECTION 2.02              Form and Dating.  Provisions relating to the Initial Notes and the Exchange Notes are set forth in Appendix A, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture.  The (i) Initial Notes and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication and (ii) any Additional Notes (if issued as Transfer Restricted Notes) and the

 

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Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall each be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture.  The (i) Exchange Notes and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication and (ii) any Additional Notes issued other than as Transfer Restricted Notes and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall each be substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit B hereto, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture.  The Notes may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, stock exchange rule, agreements to which the Issuers or any Subsidiary Guarantor is subject, if any, or usage (provided that any such notation, legend or endorsement is in a form acceptable to the Issuer).  Each Note shall be dated the date of its authentication.  The Notes shall be issuable only in registered form without interest coupons and in denominations of $2,000 and any integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof, provided that Notes may be issued in denominations of less than $2,000 solely to accommodate book-entry positions that have been created by the Depository in denominations of less than $2,000.

 

SECTION 2.03              Execution and Authentication.  The Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery upon a written order of the Issuers signed by one Officer of each Issuer (a) Initial Notes for original issue on the date hereof in an aggregate principal amount of $800,000,000, (b) subject to the terms of this Indenture, Additional Notes in an aggregate principal amount to be determined at the time of issuance and specified therein and (c) the Exchange Notes for issue in a Registered Exchange Offer pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement for a like principal amount of Initial Notes exchanged pursuant thereto or otherwise pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act.  Such order shall specify the amount of separate Note certificates to be authenticated, the principal amount of each of the Notes to be authenticated, the date on which the original issue of Notes is to be authenticated, whether the Notes are to be Initial Notes, Additional Notes or Exchange Notes, the registered holder of each of the Notes and delivery instructions.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Indenture or Appendix A, any issuance of Additional Notes after the Issue Date shall be in a principal amount of at least $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.

 

One Officer shall sign the Notes for each of the Issuers by manual or facsimile signature.

 

If an Officer whose signature is on a Note no longer holds that office at the time the Trustee authenticates the Note, the Note shall be valid nevertheless.

 

A Note shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee manually signs the certificate of authentication on the Note.  The signature shall be conclusive evidence that the Note has been authenticated under this Indenture.

 

The Trustee may appoint one or more authenticating agents reasonably acceptable to Holdings to authenticate the Notes.  Any such appointment shall be evidenced by an instrument signed by a Trust Officer, a copy of which shall be furnished to Holdings.  Unless limited by the terms of such appointment, an authenticating agent may authenticate Notes whenever the Trustee may do so.  Each reference in this Indenture to authentication by the Trustee includes authentication by such agent.  An authenticating agent has the same rights as any Registrar, Paying Agent or agent for service of notices and demands.

 

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SECTION 2.04              Registrar and Paying Agent.

 

(a)                                 The Issuers shall maintain (i) an office or agency where Notes may be presented for registration of transfer or for exchange (the “Registrar”) and (ii) an office or agency where Notes may be presented for payment (the “Paying Agent”).  The Registrar shall keep a register of the Notes and of their transfer and exchange.  The Issuers may have one or more co-registrars and one or more additional paying agents.  The term “Registrar” includes any co-registrars.  The term “Paying Agent” includes the Paying Agent and any additional paying agents.  The Issuers initially appoint the Trustee as Registrar, Paying Agent and the Notes Custodian with respect to the Global Notes.

 

(b)                                 The Issuers may enter into an appropriate agency agreement with any Registrar or Paying Agent not a party to this Indenture, which shall incorporate the terms of the TIA.  The agreement shall implement the provisions of this Indenture that relate to such agent.  Holdings shall notify the Trustee in writing of the name and address of any such agent.  If the Issuers fail to maintain a Registrar or Paying Agent, the Trustee shall act as such and shall be entitled to appropriate compensation therefor pursuant to Section 7.07.  Holdings or any of its domestically organized Wholly Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.

 

(c)                                  The Issuers may remove any Registrar or Paying Agent upon written notice to such Registrar or Paying Agent and to the Trustee; provided, however, that no such removal shall become effective until (i) if applicable, acceptance of an appointment by a successor as evidenced by an appropriate agreement entered into by the Issuers and such successor Registrar or Paying Agent, as the case may be, and delivered to the Trustee or (ii) notification to the Trustee that the Trustee shall serve as Registrar or Paying Agent until the appointment of a successor in accordance with clause (i) above.  The Registrar or Paying Agent may resign at any time upon written notice to the Issuers and the Trustee; provided, however, that the Trustee may resign as Paying Agent or Registrar only if the Trustee also resigns as Trustee in accordance with Section 7.08.

 

SECTION 2.05              Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust.  Prior to each due date of the principal of and interest on any Note, the Issuers shall deposit with each Paying Agent (or if Holdings or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary is acting as Paying Agent, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto) a sum sufficient to pay such principal and interest when so becoming due.  The Issuers shall require each Paying Agent (other than the Trustee) to agree in writing that a Paying Agent shall hold in trust for the benefit of holders or the Trustee all money held by a Paying Agent for the payment of principal of and interest on the Notes, and shall notify the Trustee of any default by the Issuers in making any such payment.  If Holdings or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings acts as Paying Agent, it shall segregate the money held by it as Paying Agent and hold it in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto.  The Issuers at any time may require a Paying Agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee and to account for any funds disbursed by such Paying Agent.  Upon complying with this Section, a Paying Agent shall have no further liability for the money delivered to the Trustee.

 

SECTION 2.06              Holder Lists.  The Trustee shall preserve in as current a form as is reasonably practicable the most recent list available to it of the names and addresses of

 

50

 

holders.  If the Trustee is not the Registrar, Holdings shall furnish, or cause the Registrar to furnish, to the Trustee, in writing at least five Business Days before each Interest Payment Date and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, a list in such form and as of such date as the Trustee may reasonably require of the names and addresses of holders.

 

SECTION 2.07              Transfer and Exchange.  The Notes shall be issued in registered form and shall be transferable only upon the surrender of a Note for registration of transfer and in compliance with Appendix A.  When a Note is presented to the Registrar with a request to register a transfer, the Registrar shall register the transfer as requested if its requirements therefor are met.  When Notes are presented to the Registrar with a request to exchange them for an equal principal amount of Notes of other denominations, the Registrar shall make the exchange as requested if the same requirements are met.  To permit registration of transfers and exchanges, the Issuers shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate Notes at the Registrar’s request.  The Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to pay all taxes, assessments or other governmental charges in connection with any transfer or exchange pursuant to this Section.  The Issuers shall not be required to make, and the Registrar need not register, transfers or exchanges of Notes selected for redemption (except, in the case of Notes to be redeemed in part, the portion thereof not to be redeemed) or of any Notes for a period of 15 days before a selection of Notes to be redeemed.

 

Prior to the due presentation for registration of transfer of any Note, the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee, the Paying Agent and the Registrar may deem and treat the Person in whose name a Note is registered as the absolute owner of such Note for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest, if any, on such Note and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Note is overdue, and none of the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee, the Paying Agent or the Registrar shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

 

Any holder of a beneficial interest in a Global Note shall, by acceptance of such beneficial interest, agree that transfers of beneficial interests in such Global Note may be effected only through a book-entry system maintained by (a) the holder of such Global Note (or its agent) or (b) any holder of a beneficial interest in such Global Note, and that ownership of a beneficial interest in such Global Note shall be required to be reflected in a book entry.

 

All Notes issued upon any transfer or exchange pursuant to the terms of this Indenture shall evidence the same debt and shall be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as the Notes surrendered upon such transfer or exchange.

 

The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Note (including any transfers between or among Depository participants or beneficial owners of interests in any Global Note) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by the terms of, this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

 

51

 

None of the Trustee, Registrar or Paying Agent shall have any responsibility for any actions taken or not taken by the Depository.

 

SECTION 2.08              Replacement Notes.  If a mutilated Note is surrendered to the Registrar or if the holder of a Note claims that the Note has been lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, the Issuers shall issue and the Trustee shall authenticate a replacement Note if the requirements of Section 8-405 of the Uniform Commercial Code are met, such that the holder (a) satisfies the Issuers and the Trustee within a reasonable time after such holder has notice of such loss, destruction or wrongful taking and the Registrar does not register a transfer prior to receiving such notification, (b) makes such request to the Issuers and the Trustee prior to the Note being acquired by a protected purchaser as defined in Section 8-303 of the Uniform Commercial Code (a “protected purchaser”) and (c) satisfies any other reasonable requirements of the Issuers and the Trustee.  If required by the Trustee or the Issuers, such holder shall furnish an indemnity bond sufficient in the judgment of the Trustee and the Issuers to protect the Issuers, the Trustee, the Paying Agent and the Registrar from any loss or liability that any of them may suffer if a Note is replaced and subsequently presented or claimed for payment.  The Issuers and the Trustee may charge the holder for their expenses in replacing a Note (including without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements in replacing such Note).  In the event any such mutilated, lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken Note has become or is about to become due and payable, the Issuers in their discretion may pay such Note instead of issuing a new Note in replacement thereof.

 

Every replacement Note is an additional obligation of the Issuers.

 

The provisions of this Section 2.08 are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken Notes.

 

SECTION 2.09              Outstanding Notes.  Notes outstanding at any time are all Notes authenticated by the Trustee except for those canceled by it, those delivered to it for cancellation and those described in this Section as not outstanding.  Subject to Section 14.06, a Note does not cease to be outstanding because one of the Issuers or an Affiliate of one of the Issuers holds the Note.

 

If a Note is replaced pursuant to Section 2.08 (other than a mutilated Note surrendered for replacement), it ceases to be outstanding unless the Trustee and the Issuers receive proof satisfactory to them that the replaced Note is held by a protected purchaser.  A mutilated Note ceases to be outstanding upon surrender of such Note and replacement thereof pursuant to Section 2.08.

 

If a Paying Agent segregates and holds in trust, in accordance with this Indenture, on a redemption date or maturity date money sufficient to pay all principal and interest payable on that date with respect to the Notes (or portions thereof) to be redeemed or maturing, as the case may be, and no Paying Agent is prohibited from paying such money to the holders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture, then on and after that date such Notes (or portions thereof) cease to be outstanding and interest on them ceases to accrue.

 

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SECTION 2.10              Cancellation.  The Issuers at any time may deliver Notes to the Trustee for cancellation.  The Registrar and each Paying Agent shall forward to the Trustee any Notes surrendered to them for registration of transfer, exchange or payment.  The Trustee and no one else shall cancel all Notes surrendered for registration of transfer, exchange, payment or cancellation and shall dispose of canceled Notes in accordance with its customary procedures.  The Issuers may not issue new Notes to replace Notes they have redeemed, paid or delivered to the Trustee for cancellation.  The Trustee shall not authenticate Notes in place of canceled Notes other than pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

 

SECTION 2.11              Defaulted Interest.  If the Issuers default in a payment of interest on the Notes, the Issuers shall pay the defaulted interest then borne by the Notes (plus interest on such defaulted interest to the extent lawful) in any lawful manner.  The Issuers may pay the defaulted interest to the Persons who are holders on a subsequent special record date.  The Issuers shall fix or cause to be fixed any such special record date and payment date to the reasonable satisfaction of the Trustee and shall promptly mail or cause to be mailed to each affected holder, or otherwise deliver in accordance with the procedures of the Depository, a notice that states the special record date, the payment date and the amount of defaulted interest to be paid.

 

SECTION 2.12              CUSIP Numbers, ISINs, Etc.  The Issuers in issuing the Notes may use CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers (if then generally in use), and the Trustee shall use any such CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to holders; provided, however, that any such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers, either as printed on the Notes or as contained in any notice of a redemption that reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the Notes and that any such redemption shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such numbers.  The Issuers shall advise the Trustee of any change in any such CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers.

 

SECTION 2.13              Calculation of Principal Amount of Notes.  The aggregate principal amount of the Notes, at any date of determination, shall be the principal amount of the Notes at such date of determination.  With respect to any matter requiring consent, waiver, approval or other action of the holders of a specified percentage of the principal amount of all the Notes, such percentage shall be calculated, on the relevant date of determination, by dividing (a) the principal amount, as of such date of determination, of Notes, the holders of which have so consented, by (b) the aggregate principal amount, as of such date of determination, of the Notes then outstanding, in each case, as determined in accordance with the preceding sentence, Section 2.09 and Section 14.06 of this Indenture.  Any calculation of the Applicable Premium or made pursuant to this Section 2.13 shall be made by Holdings and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to an Officers’ Certificate.

 

ARTICLE III

 

REDEMPTION

 

SECTION 3.01              Redemption.  The Notes may be redeemed, in whole or from time to time in part, subject to the conditions and at the redemption prices set forth in

 

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Paragraph 5 of the forms of Notes set forth in Exhibits A and B hereto, which are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to the redemption date.

 

SECTION 3.02              Applicability of Article.  Redemption of Notes at the election of the Issuers or otherwise, as permitted or required by any provision of this Indenture, shall be made in accordance with such provision and this Article III.

 

SECTION 3.03              Notices to Trustee.  If the Issuers elect to redeem Notes pursuant to the optional redemption provisions of Paragraph 5 of the Note, Holdings shall notify the Trustee in an Officers’ Certificate of (i) the Section of this Indenture pursuant to which the redemption shall occur, (ii) the redemption date, (iii) the principal amount of Notes to be redeemed and (iv) the redemption price.  Holdings shall give notice to the Trustee provided for in this paragraph at least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date if the redemption is an optional redemption pursuant to Paragraph 5 of the Note.  Holdings may also include a request in such Officers’ Certificate that the Trustee give the notice of redemption in the Issuers’ name and at their expense and setting forth the information to be stated in such notice as provided in Section 3.05.  Any such notice may be canceled at any time prior to notice of such redemption being mailed to any holder or otherwise delivered in accordance with the applicable procedures of the Depository and shall thereby be void and of no effect. The Issuers shall deliver to the Trustee such documentation and records as shall enable the Trustee to select the Notes to be redeemed pursuant to Section 3.04.

 

SECTION 3.04              Selection of Notes to Be Redeemed.  In the case of any partial redemption, selection of the Notes for redemption will be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Notes are listed (and the Issuers shall notify the Trustee of any such listing), or if the Notes are not so listed, on a pro rata basis to the extent practicable or by lot or by such other method as the Trustee shall deem fair and appropriate (and, in such manner that complies with the requirements of the Depository, if applicable); provided that no Notes of $2,000 (and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof) or less shall be redeemed in part.  The Trustee shall make the selection from outstanding Notes not previously called for redemption.  The Trustee may select for redemption portions of the principal of Notes that have denominations larger than $2,000.  Notes and portions of them the Trustee selects shall be in amounts of $2,000 or integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.  Provisions of this Indenture that apply to Notes called for redemption also apply to portions of Notes called for redemption.  The Trustee shall notify the Issuers promptly of the Notes or portions of Notes to be redeemed.

 

SECTION 3.05              Notice of Optional Redemption.

 

(a)                                 At least 30 but not more than 60 days before a redemption date pursuant to Paragraph 5 of the Note, the Issuers shall mail or cause to be mailed by first-class mail, or otherwise deliver in accordance with the procedures of the Depository, a notice of redemption to each holder whose Notes are to be redeemed at its registered address (with a copy to the Trustee), except that redemption notices may be mailed or otherwise delivered more than 60 days prior to the redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes, or a satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture pursuant to Article VIII.

 

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Any such notice shall identify the Notes to be redeemed and shall state:

 

(i)                                     the redemption date;

 

(ii)                                  the redemption price and the amount of accrued interest to the redemption date;

 

(iii)                               the name and address of the Paying Agent;

 

(iv)                              that Notes called for redemption must be surrendered to the Paying Agent to collect the redemption price, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any;

 

(v)                                 if fewer than all the outstanding Notes are to be redeemed, the certificate numbers and principal amounts of the particular Notes to be redeemed, the aggregate principal amount of Notes to be redeemed and the aggregate principal amount of Notes to be outstanding after such partial redemption;

 

(vi)                              that, unless the Issuers default in making such redemption payment or the Paying Agent is prohibited from making such payment pursuant to the terms of this Indenture, interest on Notes (or portion thereof) called for redemption ceases to accrue on and after the redemption date;

 

(vii)                           the CUSIP number, ISIN and/or “Common Code” number, if any, printed on the Notes being redeemed; and

 

(viii)                        that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number or ISIN and/or “Common Code” number, if any, listed in such notice or printed on the Notes.

 

(b)                                 At Holdings’ request, the Trustee shall deliver the notice of redemption in the Issuers’ name and at the Issuers’ expense.  In such event, Holdings shall notify the Trustee of such request at least three (3) Business Days (or such shorter period or no time period as is acceptable to the Trustee) prior to the date such notice is to be provided to holders.  Such notice may not be canceled once delivered to holders of Notes.

 

SECTION 3.06              Effect of Notice of Redemption.  Once notice of redemption is mailed or otherwise delivered in accordance with Section 3.05, Notes called for redemption become due and payable on the redemption date and at the redemption price stated in the notice, except as provided in the final sentence of paragraph 5 of the Notes.  Upon surrender to the Paying Agent, such Notes shall be paid at the redemption price stated in the notice, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but not including, the redemption date; provided, however, that if the redemption date is after a regular Record Date and on or prior to the Interest Payment Date, the accrued interest shall be payable to the holder of the redeemed Notes registered on the relevant Record Date.  Failure to give notice or any defect in the notice to any holder shall not affect the validity of the notice to any other holder.

 

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SECTION 3.07              Deposit of Redemption Price.  With respect to any Notes, prior to 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on the redemption date, the Issuers shall deposit with the Paying Agent (or, if Holdings or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings is the Paying Agent, shall segregate and hold in trust) money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, on all Notes or portions thereof to be redeemed on that date other than Notes or portions of Notes called for redemption that have been delivered by the Issuers to the Trustee for cancellation.  On and after the redemption date, interest shall cease to accrue on Notes or portions thereof called for redemption so long as the Issuers have deposited with the Paying Agent funds sufficient to pay the principal of, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, on, the Notes to be redeemed, unless the Paying Agent is prohibited from making such payment pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

 

SECTION 3.08              Notes Redeemed in Part.  If any Note is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption relating to such Note shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.  Upon surrender of a Note that is redeemed in part, the Issuers shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate for the holder (at the Issuers’ expense) a new Note equal in principal amount to the unredeemed portion of the Note surrendered.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

SECTION 4.01              Payment of Notes.  The Issuers shall promptly pay the principal of and interest on the Notes on the dates and in the manner provided in the Notes and in this Indenture.  An installment of principal of or interest shall be considered paid on the date due if on such date the Trustee or the Paying Agent holds as of 12:00 p.m. New York City time money sufficient to pay all principal and interest then due and the Trustee or the Paying Agent, as the case may be, is not prohibited from paying such money to the holders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

 

The Issuers shall pay interest on overdue principal at the rate specified therefor in the Notes, and it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest at the same rate borne by the Notes to the extent lawful.

 

SECTION 4.02              Reports and Other Information.

 

(a)                                 Notwithstanding that Holdings may not be subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act or otherwise report on an annual and quarterly basis on forms provided for such annual and quarterly reporting pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC, Holdings will file with the SEC (and provide the Trustee and holders with copies thereof, without cost to each holder, within 15 days after it files them with the SEC):

 

(i)                                     within the time period specified in the SEC’s rules and regulations for non-accelerated filers, annual reports on Form 10-K (or any successor or comparable

 

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form) containing the information required to be contained therein (or required in such successor or comparable form), except to the extent permitted to be excluded by the SEC;

 

(ii)                                  within the time period specified in the SEC’s rules and regulations for non-accelerated filers, reports on Form 10-Q (or any successor or comparable form) containing the information required to be contained therein (or required in such successor or comparable form), except to the extent permitted to be excluded by the SEC;

 

(iii)                               promptly from time to time after the occurrence of an event required to be therein reported (and in any event within the time period specified in the SEC’s rules and regulations), such other reports on Form 8-K (or any successor or comparable form); and

 

(iv)                              subject to the foregoing, any other information, documents and other reports which Holdings would be required to file with the SEC if it were subject to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act;

 

provided, however, that Holdings shall not be so obligated to file such reports with the SEC if the SEC does not permit such filing, in which event Holdings will make available such information to prospective purchasers of Notes in addition to providing such information to the Trustee and the holders, in each case within 15 days after the time Holdings would be required to file such information with the SEC if it were subject to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, subject, in the case of any such information, certificates or reports provided prior to the effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement or Shelf Registration Statement, to exceptions and exclusions consistent with the presentation of financial and other information in the Offering Memorandum (including with respect to any periodic reports provided prior to effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement or Shelf Registration Statement, the omission of financial information required by Rule 3-10 under Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC (or any successor provision)). In addition to providing such information to the Trustee, Holdings shall make available to the holders, prospective investors, market makers affiliated with any initial purchaser of the Notes and securities analysts the information required to be provided pursuant to the foregoing clauses (i), (ii) or (iii), by posting such information to its website or on IntraLinks or any comparable online data system or website.

 

If Holdings has designated any of its Subsidiaries as an Unrestricted Subsidiary and if any such Unrestricted Subsidiary or group of Unrestricted Subsidiaries, if taken together as one Subsidiary, would constitute a Significant Subsidiary of Holdings, then the annual and quarterly information required to be provided by clauses (i) and (ii) of this Section 4.02(a) shall include a reasonably detailed presentation, either on the face of the financial statements or in the footnotes thereto, of the financial condition and results of operations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries separate from the financial condition and results of operations of such Unrestricted Subsidiaries.

 

(b)                                 Notwithstanding the foregoing, Holdings will not be required to furnish any information, certificates or reports required by Items 307 or 308 of Regulation S-K prior to the effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement or Shelf Registration Statement, as applicable.

 

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(c)                                  In the event that:

 

(i)                                     the rules and regulations of the SEC permit Holdings and any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to report at such parent entity’s level on a consolidated basis and such parent entity is not engaged in any business in any material respect other than incidental to its ownership, directly or indirectly, of the capital stock of Holdings, or

 

(ii)                                  any direct or indirect parent of Holdings is or becomes a guarantor of the Notes,

 

consolidated reporting at such parent entity’s level in a manner consistent with that described in this Section 4.02 for Holdings will satisfy this Section 4.02, and Holdings is permitted to satisfy its obligations in this Section 4.02 with respect to financial information relating Holdings by furnishing financial information relating to such direct or indirect parent; provided that such financial information is accompanied by consolidating information that explains in reasonable detail the differences between the information relating to such direct or indirect parent and any of its Subsidiaries other than Holdings and its Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and the information relating to Holdings, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the other Subsidiaries of Holdings on a standalone basis, on the other hand. In addition, Holdings will make such information available to prospective investors upon request.

 

(d)                                 In addition, Holdings shall, for so long as any Notes remain outstanding during any period when it is not subject to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or otherwise permitted to furnish the SEC with certain information pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) of the Exchange Act, furnish to the holders of the Notes and to prospective investors, upon their request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act. Holdings will also hold quarterly conference calls for all holders and securities analysts to discuss such financial information no later than five Business Days after the distribution of such information required by Sections 4.02(a)(i) and (ii) and prior to the date of each such conference call, announcing the time and date of such conference call and either including all information necessary to access the call or informing holder of Notes, prospective investors, market makers affiliated with any initial purchaser of the Notes and securities analysts how they can obtain such information, including, without limitation, the applicable password or other login information.

 

(e)                                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, Holdings will be deemed to have furnished the reports referred to in this Section 4.02 to the Trustee and the holders if Holdings has filed such reports with the SEC via the EDGAR filing system and such reports are publicly available. In addition, the requirements of this Section 4.02 shall be deemed satisfied prior to the commencement of the exchange offer contemplated by the Registration Rights Agreement relating to the Notes or the effectiveness of the Shelf Registration Statement by (1) the filing with the SEC of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement and/or Shelf Registration Statement in accordance with the provisions of such Registration Rights Agreement, and any amendments thereto, if such registration statement and/or amendments thereto are filed at times that otherwise satisfy the time requirements set forth in Section 4.02(a) and/or (2) the posting of reports that would be required to be provided to the Trustee and the holders on Holdings’ website (or that of any of Holdings’ parent companies).

 

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(f)                                   Delivery of such reports, information and documents to the Trustee pursuant to this Section 4.02 is for informational purposes only, and the Trustee’s receipt thereof shall not constitute constructive notice of any information contained therein or determinable from information contained therein, including the Issuers’ compliance with any of their covenants under this Indenture (as to which the Trustee is entitled to rely exclusively on Officers’ Certificates).

 

SECTION 4.03              Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock.

 

(a)                                 (i) Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, Incur any Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness) or issue any shares of Disqualified Stock; and (ii) Holdings shall not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries (other than a Subsidiary Guarantor) to issue any shares of Preferred Stock; provided, however, that Holdings and any Subsidiary Guarantor may Incur Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness) or issue shares of Disqualified Stock, and any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor may Incur Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness), issue shares of Disqualified Stock or issue shares of Preferred Stock, in each case if the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of Holdings for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such additional Indebtedness is Incurred or such Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock is issued would have been at least 2.00 to 1.00 determined on a pro forma basis (including a pro forma application of the net proceeds therefrom), as if the additional Indebtedness had been Incurred, or the Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock had been issued, as the case may be, and the application of proceeds therefrom had occurred at the beginning of such four-quarter period; provided, further, that any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor may not incur Indebtedness or issue shares of Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock in excess of an amount together with any Refinancing Indebtedness thereof pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xv), equal to, after giving pro forma effect to such incurrence or issuance (including pro forma effect to the application of the net proceeds therefrom), the greater of $150.0 million and 2% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries at the time of Incurrence (plus, in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount).

 

(b)                                 The limitations set forth in Section 4.03(a) shall not apply to:

 

(i)                                     the Incurrence by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Indebtedness (including under any Credit Agreement and the issuance and creation of letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances thereunder) up to an aggregate principal amount outstanding at the time of Incurrence that, when aggregated with the principal amount of all other Indebtedness then outstanding and Incurred pursuant to this clause (i), together with any Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof Incurred pursuant to clause (xv) below, any time that does not exceed the greatest of (1) $3.0 billion, (2) the sum of (x) $500.0 million and (y) 30% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries at the time of Incurrence and (3) the Borrowing Base at the time of Incurrence (plus, in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount);

 

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(ii)                                  the Incurrence by the Issuers and the Subsidiary Guarantors of Indebtedness represented by (A) the Notes and the Subsidiary Guarantees, as applicable (not including any Additional Notes but including Exchange Notes and related guarantees thereof) and (B) Indebtedness, including in respect of the Secured Notes and the Term Loan Facility (including any guarantees thereof), in an aggregate principal amount for this clause (ii)(B) outstanding at any time that, together with any Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof Incurred pursuant to clause (xv) below, does not exceed $1,500 million (plus, in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount);

 

(iii)                               Indebtedness existing on the Issue Date (other than Indebtedness described in clauses (i) and (ii) of this Section 4.03(b)), including the Existing Senior Notes and any guarantee thereof;

 

(iv)                              Indebtedness (including Capitalized Lease Obligations) Incurred by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, Disqualified Stock issued by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary and Preferred Stock issued by any Restricted Subsidiary to finance (whether prior to or within 270 days after) the acquisition, lease, construction, repair, replacement or improvement of property (real or personal) or equipment (whether through the direct purchase of assets or the Capital Stock of any Person owning such assets) in an aggregate principal amount that, when aggregated with the principal amount or liquidation preference of all other Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock then outstanding and Incurred pursuant to this clause (iv), together with any Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof Incurred pursuant to clause (xv) below, does not exceed the greater of $350.0 million and 5% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of Incurrence (plus, in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount);

 

(v)                                 Indebtedness Incurred by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary constituting reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bank guarantees issued in the ordinary course of business, including without limitation letters of credit in respect of workers’ compensation claims, health, disability or other benefits to employees or former employees or their families or property, casualty or liability insurance or self-insurance, and letters of credit in connection with the maintenance of, or pursuant to the requirements of, environmental or other permits or licenses from governmental authorities, or other Indebtedness with respect to reimbursement type obligations regarding workers’ compensation claims;

 

(vi)                              Indebtedness arising from agreements of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary providing for indemnification, adjustment of purchase price or similar obligations, in each case, Incurred in connection with the Transactions, any Investments, any acquisition or disposition of any business, assets or a Subsidiary in accordance with the terms of this Indenture, other than guarantees of Indebtedness Incurred by any Person acquiring all or any portion of such business, assets or Subsidiary for the purpose of financing such acquisition;

 

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(vii)                           Indebtedness of Holdings to a Restricted Subsidiary; provided that (except in respect of intercompany current liabilities Incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with the cash management, tax and accounting operations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries) any such Indebtedness owed to a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor is subordinated in right of payment to the obligations of the Issuers under the Notes; provided, further, that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any such Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary or any pledge of such Indebtedness constituting a Permitted Lien but not the transfer thereof upon foreclosure) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an Incurrence of such Indebtedness not permitted by this clause (vii);

 

(viii)                        shares of Preferred Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary issued to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary; provided that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any Restricted Subsidiary that holds such shares of Preferred Stock of another Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such shares of Preferred Stock (except to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an issuance of shares of Preferred Stock not permitted by this clause (viii);

 

(ix)                              Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary; provided that if a Subsidiary Guarantor incurs such Indebtedness to a Restricted Subsidiary that is not an Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor (except in respect of intercompany current liabilities Incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with the cash management, tax and accounting operations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries), such Indebtedness is subordinated in right of payment to the Subsidiary Guarantee of such Subsidiary Guarantor; provided, further, that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any Restricted Subsidiary holding such Indebtedness ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to Holdings or another Restricted Subsidiary or any pledge of such Indebtedness constituting a Permitted Lien but not the transfer thereof upon foreclosure) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an Incurrence of such Indebtedness not permitted by this clause (ix);

 

(x)                                 Hedging Obligations that are not Incurred for speculative purposes but (A) for the purpose of fixing or hedging interest rate risk with respect to any Indebtedness that is permitted by the terms of this Indenture to be outstanding; (B) for the purpose of fixing or hedging currency exchange rate risk with respect to any currency exchanges; or (C) for the purpose of fixing or hedging commodity price risk with respect to any commodity purchases or sales (including, without limitation, any commodity Hedging Obligation that is intended in good faith, at inception of execution, to hedge or manage any of the risks related to existing and/or forecasted Hydrocarbon production (whether or not contracted)) and, in each case, extensions or replacements thereof;

 

(xi)                              obligations (including reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit, bank guarantees, warehouse receipts and similar instruments) in respect of

 

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performance, bid, appeal, surety bonds, completion guarantees and similar obligations provided by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business or consistent with past practice or industry practice;

 

(xii)                           Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of Holdings or Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary in an aggregate principal amount or liquidation preference which, when aggregated with the principal amount or liquidation preference of all other Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock then outstanding and Incurred pursuant to this clause (xii), together with any Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof Incurred pursuant to clause (xv) below, does not exceed the greater of $500.0 million and 7% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of Incurrence (plus, in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount) (it being understood that any Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to this clause (xii) shall cease to be deemed Incurred or outstanding for purposes of this clause (xii) but shall be deemed Incurred for purposes of Section 4.03(a) from and after the first date on which Holdings, or the Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, could have Incurred such Indebtedness under Section 4.03(a) without reliance upon this clause (xii));

 

(xiii)                        Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary and Preferred Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary in an aggregate principal amount or liquidation preference at any time outstanding not greater than 100.0% of (A) the net cash proceeds received by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries since immediately after May 24, 2012 plus (B) the amount of net cash proceeds received by Holdings in excess of $3,200 million prior to or on May 24, 2012, in each case from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent entity of Holdings (which proceeds are contributed to Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiary) or cash contributed to the capital of Holdings (in each case other than proceeds of Disqualified Stock or sales of Equity Interests to, or contributions received from, Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries) to the extent such net cash proceeds or cash have not been applied pursuant to such clauses to make Restricted Payments or to make other Investments, payments or exchanges pursuant to Section 4.04(b) or to make Permitted Investments (other than Permitted Investments specified in clauses (1) and (3) of the definition thereof);

 

(xiv)                       any guarantee by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Indebtedness or other obligations of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary so long as the Incurrence of such Indebtedness Incurred by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary is permitted under the terms of this Indenture; provided that (A) if such Indebtedness is by its express terms subordinated in right of payment to the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, any such guarantee with respect to such Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to the Notes or such Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable, substantially to the same extent as such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable and (B) if such guarantee is of Indebtedness of Holdings, such guarantee is Incurred in accordance with, or not in contravention of, Section 4.11, solely to the extent Section 4.11 is applicable;

 

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(xv)                          the Incurrence by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary that serves to refund, refinance or defease any Indebtedness Incurred or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock issued as permitted under Section 4.03(a) and clauses (i)(2), (i)(3), (ii), (iii), (iv), (xii), (xiii), (xv), (xvi) and (xx) of this Section 4.03(b) up to the outstanding principal amount (or, if applicable, the liquidation preference face amount, or the like) or, if greater, committed amount (only to the extent the committed amount could have been Incurred on the date of initial Incurrence) of such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, in each case at the time such Indebtedness was Incurred or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock was issued pursuant to Section 4.03(a) or clauses (i)(2), (i)(3), (ii), (iii), (iv), (xii), (xiii), (xv), (xvi) and (xx) of this Section 4.03(b), or any Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock Incurred to so refund or refinance such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, including any additional Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock Incurred to pay premiums (including tender premiums), accrued and unpaid interest, expenses, defeasance costs and fees in connection therewith (subject to the following proviso, “Refinancing Indebtedness”) prior to its respective maturity; provided, however, that such Refinancing Indebtedness (other than Refinancing Indebtedness in respect of Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to clauses (i)(2) and (i)(3));

 

(1)                                 has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at the time such Refinancing Indebtedness is Incurred which is not less than the shorter of (x) the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock being refunded, refinanced or defeased and (y) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity that would result if all payments of principal on the Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock being refunded or refinanced that were due on or after the date that is one year following the last maturity date of any Notes then outstanding were instead due on such date (provided that this subclause (1) will not apply to any refunding or refinancing of any Secured Indebtedness);

 

(2)                                 to the extent such Refinancing Indebtedness refinances (a) Indebtedness junior to the Notes or a Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable, such Refinancing Indebtedness is junior to the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable, or (b) Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, such Refinancing Indebtedness is Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock; and

 

(3)                                 shall not include (x) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor that refinances Indebtedness of Holdings, an Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor, or (y) Indebtedness of Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness of an Unrestricted Subsidiary;

 

(xvi)                       Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of (A) Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary Incurred to finance an acquisition or (B) Persons that are acquired by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary or merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in accordance with the terms of this Indenture; provided that after giving effect to such acquisition or merger, consolidation or amalgamation, either:

 

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(1)                                 Holdings would be permitted to Incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in Section 4.03(a); or

 

(2)                                 the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of Holdings would be greater than immediately prior to such acquisition or merger, consolidation or amalgamation;

 

(xvii)                    Indebtedness Incurred by a Receivables Subsidiary in a Qualified Receivables Financing that is not recourse to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary other than a Receivables Subsidiary (except for Standard Securitization Undertakings);

 

(xviii)                 Indebtedness arising from the honoring by a bank or other financial institution of a check, draft or similar instrument drawn against insufficient funds in the ordinary course of business; provided that such Indebtedness is extinguished within five Business Days of its Incurrence;

 

(xix)                       Indebtedness of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary supported by a letter of credit or bank guarantee issued pursuant to Bank Indebtedness, in a principal amount not in excess of the stated amount of such letter of credit;

 

(xx)                          Indebtedness of Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Subsidiary Guarantors and Indebtedness Incurred on behalf of, or representing guarantees of Indebtedness of, joint ventures of Holdings and any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (xx), when aggregated with the principal amount of all other Indebtedness then outstanding and Incurred pursuant to this clause (xx), together with any Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof Incurred pursuant to clause (xv) above, does not exceed the greater of $150.0 million and 2% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of Incurrence (plus in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness, the Additional Refinancing Amount) (it being understood that any Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to this clause (xx) shall cease to be deemed Incurred or outstanding for purposes of this clause (xx) but shall be deemed Incurred for the purposes of Section 4.03(a) from and after the first date on which such Restricted Subsidiary could have Incurred such Indebtedness under Section 4.03(a) without reliance upon this clause (xx));

 

(xxi)                       Indebtedness of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary consisting of (A) the financing of insurance premiums or (B) take-or-pay obligations contained in supply arrangements, in each case, in the ordinary course of business; and

 

(xxii)                    Indebtedness consisting of Indebtedness issued by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary to current or former officers, directors, managers and employees thereof or any direct or indirect parent thereof, their respective estates, spouses or former spouses, in each case to finance the purchase or redemption of Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to the extent described in Section 4.04(b)(iv).

 

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For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 4.03:

 

(1)                                 in the event that an item of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock (or any portion thereof) meets the criteria of more than one of the categories of permitted Indebtedness described in clauses (i) through (xxii) of Section 4.03(b) above or is entitled to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(a), then Holdings shall, in its sole discretion, classify or reclassify, or later divide, classify or reclassify (as if Incurred at such later time), such item of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock (or any portion thereof) in any manner that complies with this Section 4.03; provided, that (A) only Indebtedness outstanding under the Credit Agreement in excess of $2,000 million may be classified or reclassified as not Incurred under Section 4.03(b)(i) and (B) the Secured Notes and the Term Loan Facility (including any guarantees thereof) outstanding on May 24, 2012 shall at all times be treated as Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(ii)(B);

 

(2)                                 at the time of Incurrence, Holdings will be entitled to divide and classify an item of Indebtedness in more than one of the types of Indebtedness described in Section 4.03(a) and (b) (or any portion thereof) without giving pro forma effect to the Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to any other clause or paragraph of Section 4.03 (or any portion thereof) when calculating the amount of Indebtedness that may be Incurred pursuant to any such clause or paragraph of Section 4.03 (or any portion thereof);

 

(3)                                 in connection with the Incurrence or issuance, as applicable, of any Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, Holdings or applicable Restricted Subsidiary may elect at any time prior to the actual Incurrence or issuance of such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as applicable, to treat all or any portion of the commitments relating to such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock as being Incurred or issued on the date of such election, and any related subsequent actual Incurrence or issuance of such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock will be deemed for all purposes under this Indenture to have been Incurred on the date of such election;

 

(4)                                 if any Indebtedness denominated in U.S. dollars is exchanged, converted or refinanced into Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency, then (in connection with such exchange, conversion or refinancing, and thereafter), the U.S. dollar amount limitations set forth in any of clauses (i) through (xxii) of Section 4.03(b) above with respect to such exchange, conversion or refinancing shall be deemed to be the amount of such foreign currency, as applicable, into which such Indebtedness has been exchanged, converted or refinanced at the time of such exchange, conversion or refinancing; and

 

(5)                                 if any Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency is exchanged, converted or refinanced into Indebtedness denominated in U.S. dollars, then (in connection with such exchange, conversion or refinancing, and thereafter), the U.S. dollar amount limitations set forth in any of clauses (i) through (xxii) of Section 4.03(b) with respect to such exchange, conversion or refinancing shall be deemed to be the amount of U.S. dollars into which such Indebtedness has been exchanged, converted or refinanced at the time of such exchange, conversion or refinancing.

 

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Accrual of interest, the accretion of accreted value, the payment of interest or dividends in the form of additional Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as applicable, amortization of original issue discount, the accretion of liquidation preference and increases in the amount of Indebtedness outstanding solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies will not be deemed to be an Incurrence of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock for purposes of this Section 4.03. Guarantees of, or obligations in respect of letters of credit relating to, Indebtedness which is otherwise included in the determination of a particular amount of Indebtedness shall not be included in the determination of such amount of Indebtedness; provided that the Incurrence of the Indebtedness represented by such guarantee or letter of credit, as the case may be, was in compliance with this Section 4.03.

 

For purposes of determining compliance with any U.S. dollar-denominated restriction on the Incurrence of Indebtedness other than as provided in clauses (4) and (5) above, the U.S. dollar-equivalent principal amount of Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency shall be calculated based on the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date such Indebtedness was Incurred, in the case of term debt, or first committed or first Incurred (whichever yields the lower U.S. dollar equivalent), in the case of revolving credit debt.

 

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 4.03, the maximum amount of Indebtedness that Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries may Incur pursuant to this Section 4.03 shall not be deemed to be exceeded, with respect to any outstanding Indebtedness, solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies.

 

SECTION 4.04              Limitation on Restricted Payments.

 

(a)                                 Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly:

 

(i)                                     declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on account of any of Holdings’ or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries’ Equity Interests, including any payment made in connection with any merger, amalgamation or consolidation involving Holdings (other than (A) dividends or distributions payable solely in Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings; or (B) dividends or distributions by a Restricted Subsidiary so long as, in the case of any dividend or distribution payable on or in respect of any class or series of securities issued by a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary, Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary receives at least its pro rata share of such dividend or distribution in accordance with its Equity Interests in such class or series of securities);

 

(ii)                                  purchase or otherwise acquire or retire for value any Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings;

 

(iii)                               make any principal payment on, or redeem, repurchase, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value, in each case prior to any scheduled repayment or scheduled maturity, any Subordinated Indebtedness of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor (other than the payment, redemption, repurchase, defeasance, acquisition or retirement of (A) Subordinated Indebtedness in anticipation of satisfying a sinking fund

 

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obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in each case due within one year of the date of such payment, redemption, repurchase, defeasance, acquisition or retirement and (B) Indebtedness permitted under clauses (vii) and (ix) of Section 4.03(b)); or

 

(iv)                              make any Restricted Investment

 

(all such payments and other actions set forth in clauses (i) through (iv) above being collectively referred to as “Restricted Payments”), unless, at the time of such Restricted Payment:

 

(1)                                 no Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof;

 

(2)                                 immediately after giving effect to such transaction on a pro forma basis, Holdings could Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness under Section 4.03(a); and

 

(3)                                 such Restricted Payment, together with the aggregate amount of all other Restricted Payments made by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date (including Restricted Payments permitted by clauses (i), (ii) (with respect to the payment of dividends on Refunding Capital Stock (as defined below) pursuant to clause (C) thereof), (vi)(C), (viii) and (xiii)(B) of Section 4.04(b), but excluding all other Restricted Payments permitted by Section 4.04(b)), is less than the amount equal to the Cumulative Credit.

 

(b)                                 The provisions of Section 4.04(a) shall not prohibit:

 

(i)                                     the payment of any dividend or distribution or the consummation of any irrevocable redemption within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof, if at the date of declaration or the giving notice of such irrevocable redemption, as applicable, such payment would have complied with the provisions of this Indenture;

 

(ii)                                  (A)                               the redemption, repurchase, retirement or other acquisition of any Equity Interests (“Retired Capital Stock”) or Subordinated Indebtedness of Holdings, any direct or indirect parent of Holdings or any Subsidiary Guarantor in exchange for, or out of the proceeds of, the substantially concurrent sale of, Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings or contributions to the equity capital of Holdings (other than any Disqualified Stock or any Equity Interests sold to a Subsidiary of Holdings) (collectively, including any such contributions, “Refunding Capital Stock”),

 

(B)                               the declaration and payment of dividends on the Retired Capital Stock out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Subsidiary of Holdings) of Refunding Capital Stock, and

 

(C)                               if immediately prior to the retirement of Retired Capital Stock, the declaration and payment of dividends thereon was permitted under clause (vi) of this Section 4.04(b) and not made pursuant to clause (ii)(B), the declaration and payment of dividends on the Refunding Capital Stock (other than Refunding Capital Stock the proceeds of which were used to redeem, repurchase, retire or otherwise acquire any Equity Interests of any direct or indirect parent of

 

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Holdings) in an aggregate amount per year no greater than the aggregate amount of dividends per annum that were declarable and payable on such Retired Capital Stock immediately prior to such retirement;

 

(iii)                               the redemption, repurchase, defeasance, or other acquisition or retirement of Subordinated Indebtedness of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor made by exchange for, or out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale of, new Indebtedness of an Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor which is Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03 so long as:

 

(A)                               the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of such new Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable), plus any accrued and unpaid interest, of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired for value (plus the amount of any premium required to be paid under the terms of the instrument governing the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired, any tender premiums, plus any defeasance costs, fees and expenses Incurred in connection therewith),

 

(B)                               such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Notes or the related Subsidiary Guarantee, as the case may be, at least to the same extent as such Subordinated Indebtedness so purchased, exchanged, redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired for value,

 

(C)                               such Indebtedness has a final scheduled maturity date equal to or later than the earlier of (x) the final scheduled maturity date of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired and (y) 91 days following the last maturity date of any Notes then outstanding, and

 

(D)                               such Indebtedness has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at the time Incurred which is not less than the shorter of (x) the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired and (y) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity that would result if all payments of principal on the Subordinated Indebtedness being redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired that were due on or after the date that is one year following the last maturity date of any Notes then outstanding were instead due on such date;

 

(iv)                              a Restricted Payment to pay for the repurchase, retirement or other acquisition for value of Equity Interests of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings held by any future, present or former employee, director, officer, manager or consultant of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or other agreement or arrangement; provided, however, that the aggregate Restricted Payments made under this clause (iv) do not exceed $50.0 million in any calendar year (which shall increase to $100.0 million subsequent to the consummation of an underwritten public Equity Offering of common

 

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stock), with unused amounts in any calendar year being permitted to be carried over to succeeding calendar years subject to a maximum of $75.0 million in any calendar year (which shall increase to $150.0 million subsequent to the consummation of an underwritten public Equity Offering); provided, further, however, that such amount in any calendar year may be increased by an amount not to exceed:

 

(A)                               the cash proceeds received by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries from the sale of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings (to the extent contributed to Holdings) to employees, directors, officers, managers or consultants of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings that occurs after the Issue Date (provided that the amount of such cash proceeds utilized for any such repurchase, retirement, other acquisition or dividend will not increase the amount available for Restricted Payments under Section 4.04(a)(iii)), plus

 

(B)                               the cash proceeds of key man life insurance policies received by Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings (to the extent contributed to Holdings) or the Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date;

 

provided that Holdings may elect to apply all or any portion of the aggregate increase contemplated by clauses (A) and (B) above in any calendar year; and provided, further, that cancellation of Indebtedness owing to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary from any present or former employees, directors, managers, officers or consultants of Holdings, any Restricted Subsidiary or the direct or indirect parents of Holdings in connection with a repurchase of Equity Interests of Holdings or any of its direct or indirect parents will not be deemed to constitute a Restricted Payment for purposes of this Section 4.04 or any other provision of this Indenture;

 

(v)                                 the declaration and payment of dividends or distributions to holders of any class or series of Disqualified Stock of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary issued or Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03;

 

(vi)                              (A)                               the declaration and payment of dividends or distributions to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date;

 

(B)                               a Restricted Payment to any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, the proceeds of which will be used to fund the payment of dividends to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of any direct or indirect parent of Holdings issued after the Issue Date; provided that the aggregate amount of dividends declared and paid pursuant to this clause (B) does not exceed the net cash proceeds actually received by Holdings from any such sale of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date; and

 

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(C)                               the declaration and payment of dividends on Refunding Capital Stock that is Preferred Stock in excess of the dividends declarable and payable thereon pursuant to Section 4.04(b)(ii);

 

provided, however, in the case of each of clauses (A) and (C) above of this clause (vi), that for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date of issuance of such Designated Preferred Stock, after giving effect to such issuance (and the payment of dividends or distributions) on a pro forma basis (including a pro forma application of the net proceeds therefrom), Holdings would have had a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of at least 2.00 to 1.00;

 

(vii)                           Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings), taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (vii) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of $175.0 million and 2.5% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of such Investment, plus an amount equal to any returns (including dividends, interest, distributions, returns of principal, profits on sale, repayments, income and similar amounts) actually received in respect of any such Investment made pursuant to this clause (vii) (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided, however, that if any Investment pursuant to this clause (vii) is made in any Person that is not an Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary at the date of the making of such Investment and such Person becomes an Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary after such date, such Investment shall thereafter be deemed to have been made pursuant to clause (1) of the definition of Permitted Investments and shall cease to have been made pursuant to this clause (vii) for so long as such Person continues to be an Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(viii)                        the payment of dividends after a public offering of Capital Stock of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings on Holdings’ Capital Stock (or a Restricted Payment to any such direct or indirect parent of Holdings to fund the payment by such direct or indirect parent of Holdings of dividends on such entity’s Capital Stock) of up to 6% per annum of the total market capitalization of Holdings or any such direct or indirect parent of Holdings as of the date of such public offering, other than public offerings with respect to Holdings’ (or such direct or indirect parent’s) Capital Stock registered on Form S-4 or Form S-8 and other than any public sale constituting an Excluded Contribution;

 

(ix)                              Restricted Payments in an aggregate amount not to exceed the aggregate amount of Excluded Contributions;

 

(x)                                 other Restricted Payments in an aggregate amount, when taken together with all other Restricted Payments made pursuant to this clause (x) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of $225.0 million and 3% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets at the time of such Restricted Payment, plus, in the case of Restricted Payments constituting Investments made pursuant to this clause (x), an amount equal to any returns (including dividends, interest, distributions, returns of principal,

 

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profits on sale, repayments, income and similar amounts) actually received in respect of any such Restricted Payments constituting Investments;

 

(xi)                              the distribution, as a dividend or otherwise, of shares of Capital Stock of, or Indebtedness owed to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary by, Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

 

(xii)                           (A) with respect to any taxable period for which Holdings and/or any of its Subsidiaries are members of a consolidated, combined, affiliated, unitary or similar income tax group for U.S. federal and/or applicable state or local income tax purposes of which a direct or indirect parent of Holdings is the common parent, or for which Holdings is a partnership or disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes that is wholly-owned (directly or indirectly) by a C corporation for U.S. federal and/or applicable state or local income tax purposes, distributions to any direct or indirect parent of Holdings in an amount not to exceed the amount of any U.S. federal, state and/or local income taxes that Holdings and/or its Subsidiaries, as applicable, would have paid for such taxable period had Holdings and/or its Subsidiaries, as applicable, been a stand-alone corporate taxpayer or a stand-alone corporate group, and (B) with respect to any taxable period ending after the Issue Date for which Holdings is a partnership or disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes (other than a partnership or disregarded entity described in clause (A)), distributions to any direct or indirect parent of Holdings in an amount necessary to permit such direct or indirect parent of Holdings to make a pro rata distribution to its owners such that each direct or indirect owner of Holdings receives an amount from such pro rata distribution sufficient to enable such owner to pay its U.S. federal, state and/or local income taxes (as applicable) attributable to its direct or indirect ownership of Holdings and its Subsidiaries with respect to such taxable period (assuming that each owner is subject to tax at the highest combined marginal federal, state, and/or local income tax rate applicable to any owner for such taxable period and taking into account the deductibility of state and local income taxes for U.S. federal income tax purposes (and any limitations thereon), the alternative minimum tax, any cumulative net taxable loss of Holdings for prior taxable periods ending after the Issue Date to the extent such loss is of a character that would allow such loss to be available to reduce taxes in the current taxable period (taking into account any limitations on the utilization of such loss to reduce such taxes and assuming such loss had not already been utilized) and the character (e.g., long-term or short-term capital gain or ordinary or exempt) of the applicable income);

 

(xiii)                        any Restricted Payment, if applicable:

 

(A)                               in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to pay fees and expenses (including franchise or similar taxes) required to maintain its corporate existence, customary salary, bonus and other benefits payable to, and indemnities provided on behalf of, officers and employees of any direct or indirect parent of Holdings and general corporate operating and overhead expenses of any direct or indirect parent of Holdings in each case to the extent such fees and expenses are attributable to the ownership or operation of Holdings, if applicable, and its Subsidiaries;

 

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(B)                               in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of Holdings, if applicable, to pay interest and/or principal on Indebtedness the proceeds of which have been contributed to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary and that has been guaranteed by, or is otherwise considered Indebtedness of, Holdings Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03; and

 

(C)                               in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to pay fees and expenses related to any unsuccessful equity or debt offering of such parent;

 

(xiv)                       repurchases of Equity Interests deemed to occur upon exercise of stock options or warrants if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price of such options or warrants;

 

(xv)                          purchases of receivables pursuant to a Receivables Repurchase Obligation in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing and the payment or distribution of Receivables Fees;

 

(xvi)                       Restricted Payments by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary to allow the payment of cash in lieu of the issuance of fractional shares upon the exercise of options or warrants or upon the conversion or exchange of Capital Stock of any such Person;

 

(xvii)                    the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value of any Subordinated Indebtedness pursuant to provisions similar to those described in Section 4.06 and Section 4.08; provided that all Notes tendered by holders of the Notes in connection with a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer, as applicable, have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value;

 

(xviii)                 payments or distributions to dissenting stockholders pursuant to applicable law, pursuant to or in connection with a consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, that complies with Section 5.01; provided that as a result of such consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer of assets, Holdings shall have made a Change of Control Offer (if required by this Indenture) and that all Notes tendered by holders in connection with such Change of Control Offer have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value; and

 

(xix)                       any Restricted Payment used to fund the Transactions and the payment of fees and expenses Incurred in connection with the Transactions or owed by Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings or Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings to Affiliates, and any other payments made, including any such payments made to any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to enable it to make payments in connection with the consummation of the Transactions, whether payable on the Issue Date or thereafter, in each case to the extent permitted by Section 4.07;

 

provided, however, that at the time of, and after giving effect to, any Restricted Payment permitted under clauses (vi)(B), (vii), (x), (xi) and (xiii)(B) of this Section 4.04(b), no Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof; provided,

 

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further that any Restricted Payments made with property other than cash shall be calculated using the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of such property.

 

(c)                                  As of the Issue Date, all of the Subsidiaries of Holdings will be Restricted Subsidiaries. Holdings will not permit any Unrestricted Subsidiary to become a Restricted Subsidiary except pursuant to the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary.” For purposes of designating any Restricted Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, all outstanding Investments by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries (except to the extent repaid) in the Subsidiary so designated will be deemed to be Restricted Payments in an amount determined as set forth in the last sentence of the definition of “Investments.”  Such designation will only be permitted if a Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment in such amount would be permitted at such time and if such Subsidiary otherwise meets the definition of an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

 

SECTION 4.05              Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries.  Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create or otherwise cause or suffer to exist or become effective any consensual encumbrance or consensual restriction on the ability of the Co-Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary to:

 

(a)                                 (i) pay dividends or make any other distributions to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (1) on its Capital Stock; or (2) with respect to any other interest or participation in, or measured by, its profits; or (ii) pay any Indebtedness owed to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(b)                                 make loans or advances to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary; or

 

(c)                                  sell, lease or transfer any of its properties or assets to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

except in each case for such encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by reason of:

 

(1)                                 (A) contractual encumbrances or restrictions in effect on the Issue Date, including pursuant to the Existing Senior Notes (including any guarantee thereof), the Secured Notes (including any guarantee thereof) and the Term Loan Facility (including any guarantee thereof) and (B) contractual encumbrances or restrictions pursuant to the Credit Agreement and the other Credit Agreement Documents and, in each case, any similar contractual encumbrances effected by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of such agreements or instruments;

 

(2)                                 this Indenture, the Notes (and any Exchange Notes) or the Subsidiary Guarantees;

 

(3)                                 applicable law or any applicable rule, regulation or order;

 

(4)                                 any agreement or other instrument of a Person acquired by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary which was in existence at the time of such acquisition (but not created in contemplation thereof or to provide all or any portion of the funds or credit

 

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support utilized to consummate such acquisition), which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other than the Person and its Subsidiaries, or the property or assets of the Person and its Subsidiaries, so acquired;

 

(5)                                 contracts or agreements for the sale of assets, including any restriction with respect to a Restricted Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an agreement entered into for the sale or disposition of the Capital Stock or assets of such Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(6)                                 Secured Indebtedness otherwise permitted to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03 and Section 4.12 that limit the right of the debtor to dispose of the assets securing such Indebtedness;

 

(7)                                 restrictions on cash or other deposits or net worth imposed by customers under contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(8)                                 customary provisions in joint venture agreements and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(9)                                 purchase money obligations for property acquired and Capitalized Lease Obligations in the ordinary course of business that impose restrictions of the nature discussed in clause (c) above on the property so acquired;

 

(10)                          customary provisions contained in leases, licenses and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(11)                          in the case of clause (c) above, any encumbrance or restriction that restricts in a customary manner the subletting, assignment or transfer of any property or asset that is subject to a lease (including leases governing leasehold interests or Farm-In Agreements or Farm-Out Agreements relating to leasehold interests in Oil and Gas Properties), license or similar contract, or the assignment or transfer of any such lease (including leases governing leasehold interests or Farm-In Agreements or Farm-Out Agreements relating to leasehold interests in Oil and Gas Properties), license (including without limitation, licenses of intellectual property) or other contracts;

 

(12)                          any encumbrance or restriction of a Receivables Subsidiary effected in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing; provided, however, that such restrictions apply only to such Receivables Subsidiary;

 

(13)                          other Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock (a) of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Subsidiary Guarantor or a Foreign Subsidiary or (b) of any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor or a Foreign Subsidiary so long as such encumbrances and restrictions contained in any agreement or instrument will not materially affect the Issuers’ ability to make anticipated principal or interest payments on the Notes (as determined in good faith by Holdings), provided that in the case of each of clauses (a) and (b), such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock is permitted to be Incurred subsequent to the Issue Date pursuant to Section 4.03;

 

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(14)                          any Restricted Investment not prohibited by Section 4.04 and any Permitted Investment;

 

(15)                          any customary encumbrances or restrictions imposed pursuant to any agreement of the type described in the definition of “Permitted Business Investment”; or

 

(16)                          any encumbrances or restrictions of the type referred to in Section 4.05(a), (b) or (c) above imposed by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of the contracts, instruments or obligations referred to in clauses (1) through (15) above; provided that such amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings are, in the good faith judgment of Holdings, no more restrictive with respect to such dividend and other payment restrictions than those contained in the dividend or other payment restrictions prior to such amendment, modification, restatement, renewal, increase, supplement, refunding, replacement or refinancing.

 

For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 4.05, (i) the priority of any Preferred Stock in receiving dividends or liquidating distributions prior to dividends or liquidating distributions being paid on common stock shall not be deemed a restriction on the ability to make distributions on Capital Stock and (ii) the subordination of loans or advances made to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary to other Indebtedness Incurred by Holdings or any such Restricted Subsidiary shall not be deemed a restriction on the ability to make loans or advances.

 

SECTION 4.06              Asset Sales.

 

(a)                                 Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to, cause or make an Asset Sale, unless (x) Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, receives consideration at the time of such Asset Sale at least equal to the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings) of the assets sold or otherwise disposed of, and (y) at least 75% of the consideration therefor received by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, is in the form of Cash Equivalents or Additional Assets; provided that the amount of:

 

(i)                                     any liabilities (as shown on Holdings’ or a Restricted Subsidiary’s most recent balance sheet or in the notes thereto) of Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary (other than liabilities that are by their terms subordinated to the Notes or any Subsidiary Guarantee) that are assumed by the transferee of any such assets or that are otherwise cancelled or terminated in connection with the transaction with such transferee,

 

(ii)                                  any notes or other obligations or other securities or assets received by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary from such transferee that are converted by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary into cash within 180 days of the receipt thereof (to the extent of the cash received),

 

(iii)                               with respect to any Asset Sale of Oil and Gas Properties by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, the costs and expenses related to the exploration, development,

 

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completion or production of such Oil and Gas Properties and activities related thereto agreed to be assumed by the transferee (or an Affiliate thereof),

 

(iv)                              Indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary that is no longer a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such Asset Sale, to the extent that Holdings and each other Restricted Subsidiary are released from any guarantee of payment of such Indebtedness in connection with the Asset Sale (without duplication of clause (i) hereto),

 

(v)                                 consideration consisting of Indebtedness of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than Subordinated Indebtedness) received after the Issue Date from Persons who are not Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with the Asset Sale and that is cancelled, and

 

(vi)                              any Designated Non-cash Consideration received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in such Asset Sale having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by Holdings), taken together with all other Designated Non-cash Consideration received pursuant to this Section 4.06(a)(vi) that is at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of 4% of Adjusted Consolidated Net Tangible Assets and $300.0 million at the time of the receipt of such Designated Non-cash Consideration (with the Fair Market Value of each item of Designated Non-cash Consideration being measured at the time received and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value),

 

shall be deemed to be Cash Equivalents for the purposes of this Section 4.06(a).

 

(b)                                 Within 365 days after Holdings’ or any Restricted Subsidiary’s receipt of the Net Proceeds of any Asset Sale, Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary may apply the Net Proceeds from such Asset Sale, at its option:

 

(i)                                     to repay (A) Indebtedness constituting Bank Indebtedness and other Pari Passu Indebtedness that is secured by a Lien permitted under this Indenture (and, if the Indebtedness repaid is revolving credit Indebtedness, to correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto), (B) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor, (C) Obligations under the Notes or (D) other Pari Passu Indebtedness (provided that if an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor shall so reduce Obligations under unsecured Pari Passu Indebtedness, the Issuers will equally and ratably reduce Obligations under the Notes pursuant to Section 3.01, through open-market purchases (provided that such purchases are at or above 100% of the principal amount thereof or, in the event that the Notes were issued with significant original issue discount, 100% of the accreted value thereof) or by making an offer (in accordance with the procedures set forth below for an Asset Sale Offer) to all holders to purchase at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof (or, in the event that the Notes were issued with significant original issue discount, 100% of the accreted value thereof), plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, the pro rata principal amount of Notes, in each case other than Indebtedness owed to Holdings or an Affiliate of Holdings;

 

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(ii)                                  to make an Investment in any one or more businesses (provided that if such Investment is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Stock of a Person, such acquisition results in such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings), assets, or property or capital expenditures, in each case (A) used or useful in a Similar Business or (B) that replace the properties and assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale or to reimburse the cost of any of the foregoing incurred on or after the date on which the Asset Sale giving rise to such Net Proceeds was contractually committed; or

 

(iii)                               to invest in Additional Assets.

 

In the case of Section 4.06(b)(ii), a binding commitment shall be treated as a permitted application of the Net Proceeds from the date of such commitment until the 18-month anniversary of the date of the receipt of such Net Proceeds; provided that in the event such binding commitment is later canceled or terminated for any reason before such Net Proceeds are so applied, then such Net Proceeds shall constitute Excess Proceeds unless Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary enters into another binding commitment (a “Second Commitment”) within six months of such cancellation or termination of the prior binding commitment; provided, further, that Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary may only enter into a Second Commitment under the foregoing provision one time with respect to each Asset Sale and to the extent such Second Commitment is later cancelled or terminated for any reason before such Net Proceeds are applied or are not applied within 180 days of such Second Commitment, then such Net Proceeds shall constitute Excess Proceeds.

 

Pending the final application of any such Net Proceeds, Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary may temporarily reduce Indebtedness under a revolving credit facility, if any, or otherwise invest such Net Proceeds in any manner not prohibited by this Indenture. Any Net Proceeds from any Asset Sale that are not applied as provided and within the time period set forth in the first sentence of this Section 4.06(b) (it being understood that any portion of such Net Proceeds used to make an offer to purchase Notes, as described in clause (i) of this Section 4.06(b), shall be deemed to have been invested whether or not such offer is accepted) will be deemed to constitute “Excess Proceeds.”  When the aggregate amount of Excess Proceeds exceeds $50.0 million, the Issuers shall make an offer to all holders of Notes (and, at the option of the Issuers, to holders of any Pari Passu Indebtedness) (an “Asset Sale Offer”) to purchase the maximum principal amount of Notes (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness), that is at least $2,000 and an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof that may be purchased out of the Excess Proceeds at an offer price in cash in an amount equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof (or, in the event the Notes or such Pari Passu Indebtedness was issued with significant original issue discount, 100% of the accreted value thereof), plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any (or, in respect of such Pari Passu Indebtedness, such lesser price, if any, as may be provided for by the terms of such Pari Passu Indebtedness), to the date fixed for the closing of such offer, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 4.06.  The Issuers will commence an Asset Sale Offer with respect to Excess Proceeds within ten (10) Business Days after the date that Excess Proceeds exceeds $50.0 million by mailing or delivering electronically if held by the Depository, the notice required pursuant to the terms of Sections 3.05 and 4.06(f), with a copy to the Trustee.  To the extent that the aggregate amount of Notes (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) tendered pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer is less than the Excess Proceeds, Holdings may use any remaining Excess Proceeds for any purpose that is

 

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not prohibited by this Indenture.  If the aggregate principal amount of Notes (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) surrendered by holders thereof exceeds the amount of Excess Proceeds, the Trustee, upon receipt of written notice from the Issuers of the aggregate principal amount of Notes to be selected, shall select the Notes to be purchased in the manner described in Section 4.06(e). Upon completion of any such Asset Sale Offer, the amount of Excess Proceeds shall be reset at zero.

 

(c)                                  The Issuers will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations to the extent such laws or regulations are applicable in connection with the repurchase of the Notes pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer.  To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the provisions of this Indenture, the Issuers will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations described in this Indenture by virtue thereof.

 

(d)                                 Not later than the date upon which written notice of an Asset Sale Offer is delivered to the Trustee as provided above, Holdings shall deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate as to (i) the amount of the Excess Proceeds, (ii) the allocation of the Net Proceeds from the Asset Sales pursuant to which such Asset Sale Offer is being made and (iii) the compliance of such allocation with the provisions of Section 4.06(b).  On such date, the Issuers shall also irrevocably deposit with the Trustee or with a paying agent (or, if an Issuer or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary is acting as the Paying Agent, segregate and hold in trust) an amount equal to the Excess Proceeds to be invested in Cash Equivalents, as directed in writing by Holdings and to be held for payment in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4.06.  Upon the expiration of the period for which the Asset Sale Offer remains open (the “Offer Period”), the Issuers shall deliver to the Trustee for cancellation the Notes or portions thereof that have been properly tendered to and are to be accepted by the Issuers.  The Trustee (or the Paying Agent, if not the Trustee) shall, on the date of purchase, mail or deliver payment to each tendering holder in the amount of the purchase price.  In the event that the Excess Proceeds delivered by the Issuers to the Trustee are greater than the purchase price of the Notes tendered, the Trustee shall deliver the excess to the Issuers immediately after the expiration of the Offer Period for application in accordance with this Section 4.06.

 

(e)                                  Holders electing to have a Note purchased shall be required to surrender the Note, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Issuers at the address specified in the notice at least three Business Days prior to the purchase date.  Holders shall be entitled to withdraw their election if the Trustee or an Issuer receives not later than one Business Day prior to the purchase date, a telegram, telex, facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the holder, the principal amount of the Note which was delivered by the holder for purchase and a statement that such holder is withdrawing his election to have such Note purchased.  If at the end of the Offer Period more Notes (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) are tendered pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer than the Issuers are required to purchase, selection of such Notes for purchase shall be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which such Notes are listed (and the Issuer shall notify the Trustee of any such listing), or if such Notes are not so listed, on a pro rata basis to the extent practicable, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee shall deem fair and appropriate (and in such manner as complies with the procedures of the Depository, if applicable); provided that no

 

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Notes of $2,000 or less shall be purchased in part.  Selection of such Pari Passu Indebtedness shall be made pursuant to the terms of such Pari Passu Indebtedness.

 

(f)                                   Notices of an Asset Sale Offer shall be mailed by first class mail, postage prepaid, or delivered electronically if held by the Depository, at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the purchase date to each holder of Notes at such holder’s registered address.  If any Note is to be purchased in part only, any notice of purchase that relates to such Note shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof that has been or is to be purchased.

 

SECTION 4.07              Transactions with Affiliates.

 

(a)                                 Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, make any payment to, or sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets from, or enter into or make or amend any transaction or series of transactions, contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any Affiliate of Holdings (each of the foregoing, an “Affiliate Transaction”) involving aggregate consideration in excess of $20.0 million, unless:

 

(i)                                     such Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are not materially less favorable to Holdings or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary than those that could have been obtained in a comparable transaction by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary with an unrelated Person; and

 

(ii)                                  with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of $40.0 million, Holdings delivers to the Trustee a resolution adopted in good faith by the majority of the Board of Directors of Holdings, approving such Affiliate Transaction and set forth in an Officers’ Certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction complies with clause (i) above.

 

(b)                                 The provisions of Section 4.07(a) shall not apply to the following:

 

(i)                                     transactions between or among Holdings and/or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries (or an entity that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction) and any merger, consolidation or amalgamation of Holdings and any direct parent of Holdings; provided that such parent shall have no material liabilities and no material assets other than cash, Cash Equivalents and the Capital Stock of Holdings and such merger, consolidation or amalgamation is otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Indenture and effected for a bona fide business purpose;

 

(ii)                                  Restricted Payments permitted by Section 4.04 and Permitted Investments;

 

(iii)                               the payment of customary fees and reimbursement of expenses paid to, and indemnity provided on behalf of, officers, directors, managers, employees or consultants of Holdings, any Restricted Subsidiary, or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings;

 

(iv)                              transactions in which Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, delivers to the Trustee a letter from an Independent Financial Advisor stating

 

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that such transaction is fair to Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary from a financial point of view or meets the requirements of clause (i) of Section 4.07(a);

 

(v)                                 payments or loans (or cancellation of loans) to officers, directors, employees or consultants which are approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of Holdings in good faith;

 

(vi)                              any agreement as in effect as of the Issue Date or any amendment thereto or replacement (so long as any such agreement together with all amendments thereto or replacements, taken as a whole, are not more disadvantageous to Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries in any material respect than the original agreement as in effect on the Issue Date) or any transaction contemplated thereby, in each case, as determined in good faith by Holdings;

 

(vii)                           the existence of, or the performance by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of its obligations under the terms of any stockholders or limited liability company agreement (including any registration rights agreement or purchase agreement related thereto) to which it is a party as of the Issue Date, and any transaction, agreement or arrangement described in the Offering Memorandum and, in each case, any amendment thereto or similar transactions, agreements or arrangements which it may enter into thereafter; provided, however, that the existence of, or the performance by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of its obligations under, any future amendment to any such existing transaction, agreement or arrangement or under any similar transaction, agreement or arrangement entered into after the Issue Date shall only be permitted by this clause (vii) to the extent that the terms of any such existing transaction, agreement or arrangement together with all amendments thereto, taken as a whole, or new transaction, agreement or arrangement are not otherwise more disadvantageous to Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries in any material respect than the original transaction, agreement or arrangement as in effect on the Issue Date, as determined in good faith by Holdings;

 

(viii)                        the execution of the Transactions, and the payment of all fees and expenses related to the Transactions, including fees paid to the Sponsors;

 

(ix)                              (A) transactions with customers, clients, suppliers or purchasers or sellers of goods or services, or transactions otherwise relating to the purchase or sale of goods or services, in each case in the ordinary course of business and otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Indenture, which are fair to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries in the reasonable determination of the Board of Directors or the senior management of Holdings, or are on terms at least as favorable as might reasonably have been obtained at such time from an unaffiliated party or (B) transactions with joint ventures or Unrestricted Subsidiaries entered into in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice or industry custom;

 

(x)                                 any transaction effected as part of a Qualified Receivables Financing;

 

(xi)                              the issuance of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings to any Person;

 

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(xii)                           the issuances of securities or other payments, awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of, employment arrangements, stock option and stock ownership plans or similar employee benefit plans approved by the Board of Directors of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings or of a Restricted Subsidiary, as appropriate, in good faith;

 

(xiii)                        the entering into of any tax sharing agreement or arrangement that complies with Section 4.04(b)(xii) and the performance under any such agreement or arrangement;

 

(xiv)                       any contribution to the capital of Holdings;

 

(xv)                          transactions permitted by, and complying with, Section 5.01;

 

(xvi)                       transactions between Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary and any Person, a director or manager of which is also a director or manager of Holdings or any direct or indirect parent of Holdings; provided, however, that such director or manager abstains from voting as a director or manager of Holdings or such direct or indirect parent, as the case may be, on any matter involving such other Person;

 

(xvii)                    pledges of Equity Interests of Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

 

(xviii)                 the formation and maintenance of any consolidated group or subgroup for tax, accounting or cash pooling or management purposes in the ordinary course of business;

 

(xix)                       any employment agreements entered into by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

 

(xx)                          the payment of management, consulting, monitoring, transaction, advisory or similar fees and related expenses (including indemnification and other similar amounts) to the Sponsors pursuant to the Sponsor Management Agreement (plus any unpaid management, consulting, monitoring, advisory and other fees and related expenses (including indemnification and other similar amounts) accrued in any prior year) and the termination fees pursuant to the Sponsor Management Agreement, in each case as in effect on the Issue Date or any amendment or modification thereto (so long as, in the good faith judgment of the Board of Directors of Holdings, any such amendment or modification is not more disadvantageous, taken as a whole, to Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries in any material respect as compared to the Sponsor Management Agreement in effect on the Issue Date);

 

(xxi)                       payments by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to any of the Sponsors made for any financial advisory, financing, underwriting or placement services or in respect of other investment banking activities, including in connection with acquisitions or divestitures, which payments are approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of Holdings in good faith;

 

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(xxii)                    transactions undertaken in good faith (as certified by a responsible financial or accounting officer of Holdings in an Officers’ Certificate) for the purpose of improving the consolidated tax efficiency of Holdings and its Subsidiaries and not for the purpose of circumventing any covenant set forth in this Indenture;

 

(xxiii)                 investments by the Sponsors in securities of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (and payment of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the Sponsors in connection therewith) so long as (i) the investment is being generally offered to other investors on the same or more favorable terms and (ii) the investment constitutes less than 5% of the proposed or outstanding issue amount of such class of securities; and

 

(xxiv)                customary agreements and arrangements with oil and gas royalty trusts and master limited partnership agreements that comply with the affiliate transaction provisions of such royalty trust or master limited partnership agreement.

 

SECTION 4.08              Change of Control.

 

(a)                                 Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder shall have the right to require the Issuers to repurchase all or any part of such holder’s Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of repurchase (the “Change of Control Payment”) (subject to the right of the holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date), in accordance with the terms contemplated in this Section 4.08; provided, however, that notwithstanding the occurrence of a Change of Control, the Issuer shall not be obligated to purchase any Notes pursuant to this Section 4.08 in the event that it has exercised its right to redeem such Notes in accordance with Article III of this Indenture. In the event that at the time of such Change of Control, the terms of the Bank Indebtedness restrict or prohibit the repurchase of Notes pursuant to this Section 4.08, then prior to the delivery of the notice to the holders provided for in Section 4.08(b) but in any event within 30 days following any Change of Control, the Issuers shall (i) repay in full all Bank Indebtedness or, if doing so will allow the purchase of Notes, offer to repay in full all Bank Indebtedness and repay the Bank Indebtedness of each lender and/or noteholder who has accepted such offer, or (ii) obtain the requisite consent under the agreements governing the Bank Indebtedness to permit the repurchase of the Notes as provided for in Section 4.08(b).

 

(b)                                 Within 30 days following any Change of Control, except to the extent that the Issuers have exercised their right to redeem the Notes in accordance with Article III of this Indenture, the Issuers shall mail a notice (a “Change of Control Offer”) to each holder with a copy to the Trustee (or deliver a notice pursuant to the procedures of the Depository) stating:

 

(i)                                     that a Change of Control has occurred and that such holder has the right to require the Issuers to repurchase such holder’s Notes for the Change of Control Payment (subject to the right of the holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest on the relevant Interest Payment Date);

 

(ii)                                  the circumstances regarding such Change of Control;

 

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(iii)                               the repurchase date (which shall be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such notice is sent); and

 

(iv)                              the instructions determined by the Issuers, consistent with this Section 4.08, that a holder must follow in order to have its Notes purchased.

 

(c)                                  Holders electing to have a Note purchased shall be required to surrender the Note, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Issuers at the address specified in the notice at least three Business Days prior to the purchase date.  The holders shall be entitled to withdraw their election if the Trustee or the Issuers receive not later than one Business Day prior to the purchase date a telegram, telex, facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the holder, the principal amount of the Note which was delivered for purchase by the holder and a statement that such holder is withdrawing his election to have such Note purchased.  Holders whose Notes are purchased only in part shall be issued new Notes equal in principal amount to the unpurchased portion of the Notes surrendered.

 

(d)                                 On the purchase date, all Notes purchased by the Issuers under this Section 4.08 shall be delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Issuers shall pay the purchase price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the holders entitled thereto.

 

(e)                                  A Change of Control Offer may be made in advance of a Change of Control, and conditioned upon such Change of Control, if a definitive agreement is in place for the Change of Control at the time of making of the Change of Control Offer.

 

(f)                                   Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 4.08, the Issuers shall not be required to make a Change of Control Offer upon a Change of Control if: (i) a third party makes the Change of Control Offer in the manner, at the times and otherwise in compliance with the requirements set forth in this Section 4.08 applicable to a Change of Control Offer made by the Issuers and purchases all Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn under such Change of Control Offer; or (ii) a notice of redemption of all outstanding Notes has been give pursuant to this Indenture unless and until there is a default in payment of the applicable redemption price.

 

(g)                                  If holders of not less than 90% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding notes validly tender and do not withdraw such notes in a Change of Control Offer and the Issuers, or any third party making a Change of Control Offer in lieu of the Issuers as described above, purchase all of the notes validly tendered and not withdrawn by such holders, the Issuers or such third party will have the right, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior written notice, given not more than 30 days following such purchase pursuant to the Change of Control Offer described above, to redeem all notes that remain outstanding following such purchase at a price in cash equal to the Change of Control Payment.

 

(h)                                 Notes repurchased by the Issuers pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will have the status of Notes issued but not outstanding or will be retired and canceled at the option of the Issuers.  Notes purchased by a third party pursuant to the preceding clause (f) will have the status of Notes issued and outstanding.

 

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(i)                                     At the time the Issuers deliver Notes to the Trustee which are to be accepted for purchase, Holdings shall also deliver an Officers’ Certificate stating that such Notes are to be accepted by the Issuers pursuant to and in accordance with the terms of this Section 4.08.  A Note shall be deemed to have been accepted for purchase at the time the Trustee, directly or through an agent, mails or delivers payment therefor to the surrendering holder.

 

(j)                                    Prior to any Change of Control Offer, Holdings shall deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate stating that all conditions precedent contained herein to the right of the Issuers to make such offer have been complied with.

 

(k)                                 The Issuers shall comply, to the extent applicable, with the requirements of Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act and any other securities laws or regulations in connection with the repurchase of Notes pursuant to this Section.  To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with provisions of this Section 4.08, the Issuers shall comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations under this Section by virtue thereof.

 

SECTION 4.09              Compliance Certificate.  Holdings shall deliver to the Trustee within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of Holdings, beginning with the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2015, an Officers’ Certificate stating that in the course of the performance by the signers of their duties as Officers of Holdings they would normally have knowledge of any Default and whether or not the signers know of any Default that occurred during such period.  If any Officer does, the certificate shall describe the Default, its status and what action the Issuers are taking or propose to take with respect thereto.  The Issuers also shall comply with Section 314(a)(4) of the TIA.  Except with respect to receipt of payments of principal and interest on the Notes and any Default or Event of Default information contained in the Officers’ Certificate delivered to it pursuant to this Section 4.09, the Trustee shall have no duty to review, ascertain or confirm the Issuers’ compliance with or the breach of any representation, warranty or covenant made in this Indenture.

 

SECTION 4.10              Further Instruments and Acts.  Upon request of the Trustee, the Issuers shall execute and deliver such further instruments and do such further acts as may be reasonably necessary or proper to carry out more effectively the purpose of this Indenture.

 

SECTION 4.11              Future Subsidiary Guarantors.  Holdings shall cause each Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary that is not an Excluded Subsidiary and that guarantees any Indebtedness of an Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture substantially in the form of Exhibit D hereto pursuant to which such Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary will guarantee the Issuers’ Obligations under the Notes and this Indenture.

 

SECTION 4.12              Liens.

 

(a)                                 Holdings shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create, Incur or suffer to exist any Lien (except Permitted Liens) on any asset or property of Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary securing Indebtedness of Holdings or

 

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a Restricted Subsidiary unless the Notes are equally and ratably secured with (or on a senior basis to, in the case of obligations subordinated in right of payment to the Notes) the obligations so secured until such time as such obligations are no longer secured by a Lien.

 

(b)                                 Section 4.12(a) shall not require Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to secure the Notes if the Lien consists of a Permitted Lien. Any Lien that is granted to secure the Notes or any Subsidiary Guarantee under Section 4.12(a) shall be automatically released and discharged at the same time as the release of the Lien that gave rise to the obligation to secure the Notes or such Subsidiary Guarantee under such Section 4.12(a).

 

(c)                                  For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 4.12, (i) a Lien securing an item of Indebtedness need not be permitted solely by reference to one category of permitted Liens (or any portion thereof) described in the definition of “Permitted Liens” or pursuant to Section 4.12(a) but may be permitted in part under any combination thereof and (ii) in the event that a Lien securing an item of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock (or any portion thereof) meets the criteria of one or more of the categories of permitted Liens (or any portion thereof) described in the definition of “Permitted Liens” or pursuant to Section 4.12(a), Holdings shall, in its sole discretion, classify or reclassify, or later divide, classify or reclassify (as if Incurred at such later time), such Lien securing such item of Indebtedness (or any portion thereof) in any manner that complies with this covenant and will be entitled to include the amount and type of such Lien or such item of Indebtedness secured by such Lien (or portion thereof) in one of the categories of permitted Liens (or any portion thereof) described in the definition of “Permitted Liens” or pursuant to Section 4.12(a) and, in such event, such Lien securing such item of Indebtedness (or any portion thereof) will be treated as being Incurred or existing pursuant to only such clause or clauses (or any portion thereof) or pursuant to Section 4.12(a).

 

(d)                                 With respect to any Lien securing Indebtedness that was permitted to secure such Indebtedness at the time of the Incurrence of such Indebtedness, such Lien shall also be permitted to secure any Increased Amount of such Indebtedness. The “Increased Amount” of any Indebtedness shall mean any increase in the amount of such Indebtedness in connection with any accrual of interest, the accretion of accreted value, the amortization of original issue discount, the payment of interest in the form of additional Indebtedness with the same terms or in the form of common stock of Holdings, the payment of dividends on Preferred Stock in the form of additional shares of Preferred Stock of the same class, accretion of original issue discount or liquidation preference and increases in the amount of Indebtedness outstanding solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies or increases in the value of property securing Indebtedness described in clause (3) of the definition of “Indebtedness.”

 

SECTION 4.13              [Intentionally Omitted].

 

SECTION 4.14              Maintenance of Office or Agency.

 

(a)                                 The Issuers shall maintain an office or agency (which may be an office of the Trustee or an affiliate of the Trustee or Registrar) where Notes may be surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange.  The Issuers shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency.  If at any time

 

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the Issuers shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, such presentations and surrenders may be made at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee as set forth in Section 14.01.

 

(b)                                 The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where the Notes may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; provided, however, that no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve an Issuer of its obligation to maintain an office or agency for such purposes.  The Issuers shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

 

(c)                                  The Issuers hereby designates the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee or its agent as such office or agency of the Issuers in accordance with Section 2.04.

 

SECTION 4.15              Covenant Suspension.  If on any date following the Issue Date, (i) the Notes have Investment Grade Ratings from both Rating Agencies, and (ii) no Default has occurred and is continuing under this Indenture, then, beginning on that day (the occurrence of the events described in the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii) being collectively referred to as a “Covenant Suspension Event”), and subject to the provisions of the following paragraph, the Issuers and the Restricted Subsidiaries shall not be subject to Sections 4.03, 4.04, 4.05, 4.06, 4.07, 4.11 and 5.01(a)(iv) (collectively the “Suspended Covenants”).

 

In the event that Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries are not subject to the Suspended Covenants under this Indenture for any period of time as a result of the foregoing, and on any subsequent date (the “Reversion Date”) one or both of the Rating Agencies withdraw their Investment Grade Rating or downgrade the rating assigned to the Notes below an Investment Grade Rating, then Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries will thereafter again be subject to the Suspended Covenants under this Indenture with respect to future events. The Issuers will provide the Trustee with written notice of each Covenant Suspension Event or Reversion Date within five Business Days of the occurrence thereof.  The Trustee will have no duty to monitor or provide notice to the holders of notes of any Covenant Suspension Event or Reversion Date.

 

On each Reversion Date, all Indebtedness Incurred, or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock issued, during the Suspension Period will be classified as having been Incurred or issued pursuant to Sections 4.03(a) and (b) (to the extent such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock would be permitted to be Incurred or issued thereunder as of the Reversion Date and after giving effect to Indebtedness Incurred or issued prior to the Suspension Period and outstanding on the Reversion Date). To the extent such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock would not be so permitted to be Incurred or issued pursuant to Sections 4.03(a) and (b), such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock will be deemed to have been outstanding on the Issue Date, so that it is classified as permitted under Section 4.03(b)(iii). Calculations made after the Reversion Date of the amount available to be made as Restricted Payments under Section 4.04 will be made as though Section 4.04 had been in effect since the Issue Date and prior to, but not during, the Suspension Period. Accordingly, Restricted Payments made during the Suspension Period will not reduce the amount available to

 

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be made as Restricted Payments under Section 4.04(a).  As described above, however, no Default or Event of Default will be deemed to have occurred on the Reversion Date as a result of any actions taken by Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries during the Suspension Period. Within 30 days of such Reversion Date, the Issuers must comply with the terms of Section 4.11.

 

For purposes of Section 4.06, on the Reversion Date, the unutilized Excess Proceeds amount will be reset to zero.

 

ARTICLE V

 

SUCCESSOR COMPANY

 

SECTION 5.01              When Issuers May Merge or Transfer Assets.

 

(a)                                 Holdings may not, directly or indirectly, consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up or convert into (whether or not Holdings is the surviving Person), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions, to any Person unless:

 

(i)                                     Holdings is the surviving person or the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation, amalgamation, merger, winding up or conversion (if other than Holdings) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition will have been made is a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or similar entity organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, or any territory thereof (Holdings or such Person, as the case may be, being herein called the “Successor Holdco”); provided that in the case where the surviving Person is not a corporation, a co-obligor of the Notes is a corporation;

 

(ii)                                  the Successor Holdco (if other than Holdings) expressly assumes all the obligations of Holdings under this Indenture pursuant to supplemental indentures;

 

(iii)                               immediately after giving effect to such transaction (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Holdco, or any Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Holdco, or such Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction) no Default shall have occurred and be continuing;

 

(iv)                              immediately after giving pro forma effect to such transaction, as if such transaction had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Holdco, or any Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Holdco, or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction), either

 

(A)                               the Successor Holdco would be permitted to Incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in Section 4.03(a); or

 

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(B)                               the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for the Successor Holdco and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be no less than such ratio for Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries immediately prior to such transaction;

 

(v)                                 if Holdings is not the Successor Holdco, each Subsidiary Guarantor, unless it is the other party to the transactions described above, shall have by supplemental indenture confirmed that its Subsidiary Guarantee shall apply to such Person’s obligations under this Indenture and the Notes; and

 

(vi)                              the Successor Holdco shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger, amalgamation or transfer and such supplemental indentures (if any) comply with this Indenture.

 

The Successor Holdco (if other than Holdings) will succeed to, and be substituted for, Holdings under this Indenture and the Notes, and in such event Holdings will automatically be released and discharged from its obligations under this Indenture and the Notes. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses (iii) and (iv) of this Section 5.01, (a) Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary may merge, consolidate or amalgamate with or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to Holdings or to a Restricted Subsidiary, and (b) Holdings may merge, consolidate or amalgamate with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating Holdings in another state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory of the United States or may convert into a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or similar entity, so long as the amount of Indebtedness of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries is not increased thereby. This Article V will not apply to a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of assets between or among Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

(b)                                 Subject to the provisions of Section 12.02(b)(i), no Subsidiary Guarantor shall, and Holdings shall not permit any Subsidiary Guarantor to, consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up into (whether or not such Subsidiary Guarantor is the surviving Person), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions to, any Person unless:

 

(i)                                     either (A) such Subsidiary Guarantor is the surviving Person or the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation, amalgamation or merger (if other than such Subsidiary Guarantor) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a company, corporation, partnership or limited liability company or similar entity organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, or any territory thereof (such Subsidiary Guarantor or such Person, as the case may be, being herein called the “Successor Subsidiary Guarantor”) and the Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (if other than such Subsidiary Guarantor) expressly assumes all the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture and the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable, pursuant to a supplemental indenture, or (B) such sale or disposition or consolidation, amalgamation or merger is not in violation of Section 4.06; and

 

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(ii)                                  the Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (if other than such Subsidiary Guarantor) shall have delivered or caused to be delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer and such supplemental indenture (if any) comply with this Indenture.

 

Except as otherwise provided in this Indenture, the Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (if other than such Subsidiary Guarantor) will succeed to, and be substituted for, such Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture and the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantee, as applicable, and such Subsidiary Guarantor will automatically be released and discharged from its obligations under this Indenture and its Subsidiary Guarantee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (1) a Subsidiary Guarantor may merge, amalgamate or consolidate with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating such Subsidiary Guarantor in another state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory thereof or may convert into a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or similar entity, so long as the amount of Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor is not increased thereby and (2) a Subsidiary Guarantor may merge, amalgamate or consolidate with Holdings or another Subsidiary Guarantor.

 

In addition, notwithstanding the foregoing, a Subsidiary Guarantor may consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up into, liquidate, dissolve, or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets (collectively, a “Transfer”) to Holdings or any Subsidiary Guarantor.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES

 

SECTION 6.01              Events of Default.  An “Event of Default” occurs with respect to Notes if:

 

(a)                                 there is a default in any payment of interest (including any Additional Interest) on any Note when the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues for a period of 30 days,

 

(b)                                 there is a default in the payment of principal or premium, if any, of any Note when due at its Stated Maturity, upon optional redemption, upon required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise,

 

(c)                                  there is a failure by Holdings for 120 days after receipt of written notice given by the Trustee or the holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the Notes then outstanding (with a copy to the Trustee) to comply with any of its obligations, covenants or agreements in Section 4.02,

 

(d)                                 there is a failure by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary for 60 days after written notice given by the Trustee or the holders of not less than 30% in principal amount of the Notes then outstanding (with a copy to the Trustee) to comply with its other obligations, covenants or agreements (other than a default referred to in clauses (a), (b) and (c) above) contained in the Notes or this Indenture,

 

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(e)                                  there is a failure by Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Subsidiaries that together would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) to pay any Indebtedness (other than Indebtedness owing to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary) within any applicable grace period after final maturity or the acceleration of any such Indebtedness by the holders thereof because of a default, in each case, if the total amount of such Indebtedness unpaid or accelerated exceeds $125.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent,

 

(f)                                   Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Subsidiaries that together would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law:

 

(i)                                     commences a voluntary case;

 

(ii)                                  consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case;

 

(iii)                               consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for any substantial part of its property; or

 

(iv)                              makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors or takes any comparable action under any foreign laws relating to insolvency,

 

(g)                                  a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that:

 

(i)                                     is for relief against Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary in an involuntary case;

 

(ii)                                  appoints a Custodian of Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary or for any substantial part of its property; or

 

(iii)                               orders the winding up or liquidation of Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary;

 

or any similar relief is granted under any foreign laws and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60 days,

 

(h)                                 there is a failure by Holdings or any Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Subsidiaries that together would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) to pay final judgments aggregating in excess of $125.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent (net of any amounts which are covered by enforceable insurance policies issued by solvent carriers), which judgments are not discharged, waived or stayed for a period of 60 days, or

 

(i)                                     the Subsidiary Guarantee of a Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Subsidiaries that together would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) with respect to the Notes ceases to be in full force and effect (except as contemplated by the terms thereof) or an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor that qualifies as a Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Subsidiaries that together would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) denies or disaffirms its obligations under

 

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this Indenture or any Subsidiary Guarantee with respect to the Notes and such Default continues for 10 days.

 

The foregoing shall constitute Events of Default whatever the reason for any such Event of Default and whether it is voluntary or involuntary or is effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body.

 

However, a default under clause (c) or (d) above shall not constitute an Event of Default until the Trustee or the holders of 30% in principal amount of outstanding Notes notify the Issuers, with a copy to the Trustee, of the default and the Issuers do not cure such default within the time specified in clauses (c) or (d) hereof after receipt of such notice.  Such notice must specify the Default, demand that it be remedied and state that such notice is a “Notice of Default.”  Holdings shall deliver to the Trustee, within five Business Days after the occurrence thereof, written notice in the form of an Officers’ Certificate of any event which is, or with the giving of notice or the lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default, its status and what action the Issuers are taking or propose to take with respect thereto.

 

The term “Bankruptcy Law” means Title 11, United States Code, or any similar Federal or state law for the relief of debtors.  The term “Custodian” means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator, custodian or similar official under any Bankruptcy Law.

 

SECTION 6.02              Acceleration.  If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) hereof with respect to Holdings) occurs with respect to the Notes and is continuing, the Trustee by notice to the Issuers or the holders of at least 30% in principal amount of outstanding Notes by notice to the Issuers, with a copy to the Trustee, may declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Notes to be due and payable. Upon such a declaration, such principal and interest shall be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to Holdings occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on all the Notes will become immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any holders. Under certain circumstances, the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding Notes may rescind any such acceleration with respect to the Notes and its consequences.

 

In the event of any Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(e), such Event of Default and all consequences thereof (excluding, however, any resulting payment default) shall be annulled, waived and rescinded, automatically and without any action by the Trustee or the holders of the Notes, if within 20 days after such Event of Default arose Holdings delivers an Officers’ Certificate to the Trustee stating that (x) the Indebtedness or guarantee that is the basis for such Event of Default has been discharged or (y) the holders thereof have rescinded or waived the acceleration, notice or action (as the case may be) giving rise to such Event of Default or (z) the default that is the basis for such Event of Default has been cured, it being understood that in no event shall an acceleration of the principal amount of the Notes as described above be annulled, waived or rescinded upon the happening of any such events.

 

SECTION 6.03              Other Remedies.  If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may pursue any available remedy at law or in equity to collect the

 

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payment of principal of or interest on the Notes or to enforce the performance of any provision of the Notes, this Indenture.

 

The Trustee may maintain a proceeding even if it does not possess any of the Notes or does not produce any of them in the proceeding.  A delay or omission by the Trustee or any holder in exercising any right or remedy accruing upon an Event of Default shall not impair the right or remedy or constitute a waiver of or acquiescence in the Event of Default.  No remedy is exclusive of any other remedy.  To the extent required by law, all available remedies are cumulative.

 

SECTION 6.04              Waiver of Past Defaults.  Provided the Notes are not then due and payable by reason of a declaration of acceleration, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the Notes by written notice to the Trustee may waive an existing Default and its consequences except (a) a Default in the payment of the principal of or interest on a Note, (b) a Default arising from the failure to redeem or purchase any Note when required pursuant to the terms of this Indenture or (c) a Default in respect of a provision that under Section 9.02 cannot be amended without the consent of each holder affected.  When a Default is waived, it is deemed cured and the Issuers, the Trustee and the holders will be restored to their former positions and rights under this Indenture, but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other Default or impair any consequent right.

 

SECTION 6.05              Control by Majority.  The holders of a majority in principal amount of Notes may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee.  However, the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this Indenture or, if the Trustee, being advised by counsel, determines that the action or proceeding so directed may not lawfully be taken or if the Trustee in good faith shall determine that the action or proceeding so directed would involve the Trustee in personal liability or expense for which it is not adequately indemnified, or subject to Section 7.01, that the Trustee determines is unduly prejudicial to the rights of any other holder or that would involve the Trustee in personal liability.  Prior to taking any action under this Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification satisfactory to it against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

 

SECTION 6.06              Limitation on Suits.

 

(a)                                 Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal, premium (if any) or interest when due, no holder may pursue any remedy with respect to this Indenture or the Notes unless:

 

(i)                                     such holder has previously given the Trustee written notice that an Event of Default is continuing,

 

(ii)                                  holders of at least 30% in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have requested the Trustee to pursue the remedy,

 

(iii)                               such holders have offered the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense,

 

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(iv)                              the Trustee has not complied with such request within 60 days after the receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity, and

 

(v)                                 the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have not given the Trustee a direction inconsistent with such request within such 60-day period.

 

(b)                                 A holder may not use this Indenture to prejudice the rights of another holder or to obtain a preference or priority over another holder.

 

SECTION 6.07              Rights of the Holders to Receive Payment.  Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture, the right of any holder to receive payment of principal of and interest on the Notes held by such holder, on or after the respective due dates expressed or provided for in the Notes, or to bring suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, shall not be impaired or affected without the consent of such holder.

 

SECTION 6.08              Collection Suit by Trustee.  If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(a) or (b) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may recover judgment in its own name and as trustee of an express trust against the Issuers or any other obligor on the Notes for the whole amount then due and owing (together with interest on overdue principal and (to the extent lawful) on any unpaid interest at the rate provided for in the Notes) and the amounts provided for in Section 7.07.

 

SECTION 6.09              Trustee May File Proofs of Claim.  The Trustee may file such proofs of claim, statements of interest and other papers or documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Trustee (including any claim for reasonable compensation, expenses disbursements and advances of the Trustee (including counsel, accountants, experts or such other professionals as the Trustee deems necessary, advisable or appropriate)) and the holders allowed in any judicial proceedings relative to the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, their creditors or their property, shall be entitled to participate as a member, voting or otherwise, of any official committee of creditors appointed in such matters and, unless prohibited by law or applicable regulations, may vote on behalf of the holders in any election of a trustee in bankruptcy or other Person performing similar functions, and any Custodian in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each holder to make payments to the Trustee and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and its counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Notes or the rights of any holder, or to authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any holder in any such proceeding.

 

SECTION 6.10              Priorities.  Any money or property collected by the Trustee pursuant to this Article VI and any other money or property distributable in respect of the

 

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Issuers’ or any Subsidiary Guarantor’s obligations under this Indenture after an Event of Default shall be applied in the following order:

 

FIRST:  to the Trustee for amounts due hereunder;

 

SECOND:  to the holders for amounts due and unpaid on the Notes for principal, premium, if any, and interest, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on the Notes for principal and interest, respectively; and

 

THIRD:  to the Issuers or, to the extent the Trustee collects any amount for any Subsidiary Guarantor, to such Subsidiary Guarantor.

 

The Trustee may fix a record date and payment date for any payment to the holders pursuant to this Section 6.10.  At least 15 days before such record date, the Trustee shall mail to each holder and the Issuers a notice that states the record date, the payment date and the amount to be paid.

 

SECTION 6.11              Undertaking for Costs.  In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken or omitted by it as Trustee, a court in its discretion may require the filing by any party litigant in the suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of the suit, and the court in its discretion may assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, against any party litigant in the suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by the party litigant.  This Article VI does not apply to a suit by the Trustee, a suit by a holder pursuant to Section 6.07 or a suit by holders of more than 10% in principal amount of the Notes.

 

SECTION 6.12              Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws.  Neither the Issuers nor any Subsidiary Guarantor (to the extent it may lawfully do so) shall at any time insist upon, or plead, or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any stay or extension law wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, which may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and the Issuers and the Subsidiary Guarantors (to the extent that they may lawfully do so) hereby expressly waive all benefit or advantage of any such law, and shall not hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but shall suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law had been enacted.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

TRUSTEE

 

SECTION 7.01              Duties of Trustee.

 

(a)                                 The Trustee, prior to the occurrence of an Event of Default with respect to the Notes and after the curing or waiving of all Events of Default which may have occurred, undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are specifically set forth in this Indenture.  If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture and use the same degree of care and skill in their

 

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exercise as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such person’s own affairs.

 

(b)                                 Except during the continuance of an Event of Default:

 

(i)                                     the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are specifically set forth in this Indenture and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee (it being agreed that the permissive right of the Trustee to do things enumerated in this Indenture shall not be construed as a duty); and

 

(ii)                                  in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture.  The Trustee shall be under no duty to make any investigation as to any statement contained in any such instance, but may accept the same as conclusive evidence of the truth and accuracy of such statement or the correctness of such opinions.  However, in the case of certificates or opinions required by any provision hereof to be provided to it, the Trustee shall examine the certificates and opinions to determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture (but need not confirm or investigate the accuracy of mathematical calculations or other facts stated therein).

 

(c)                                  The Trustee may not be relieved from liability for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act or its own willful misconduct, except that:

 

(i)                                     this paragraph does not limit the effect of paragraph (b) of this Section;

 

(ii)                                  the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a Trust Officer unless it is proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts;

 

(iii)                               the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to Section 6.05; and

 

(iv)                              no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise Incur financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers.

 

(d)                                 Every provision of this Indenture that in any way relates to the Trustee is subject to paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Section 7.01.

 

(e)                                  The Trustee shall not be liable for interest on any money received by it except as the Trustee may agree in writing with the Issuer.

 

(f)                                   Money held in trust by the Trustee need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

 

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(g)                                  Every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section 7.01(c) and the TIA.

 

SECTION 7.02              Rights of Trustee.

 

(a)                                 The Trustee may conclusively rely on any document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper person.  The Trustee need not investigate any fact or matter stated in the document.

 

(b)                                 Before the Trustee acts or refrains from acting, it may require an Officers’ Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel or both.  The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in reliance on the Officers’ Certificate or Opinion of Counsel.

 

(c)                                  The Trustee may act through agents and shall not be responsible for the misconduct or negligence of any agent appointed with due care.

 

(d)                                 The Trustee shall not be responsible or liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith which it believes to be authorized or within its rights or powers; provided, however, that the Trustee’s conduct does not constitute willful misconduct or negligence.

 

(e)                                  The Trustee may consult with counsel of its own selection and the advice or opinion of counsel with respect to legal matters relating to this Indenture and the Notes shall be full and complete authorization and protection from liability in respect of any action taken, omitted or suffered by it hereunder in good faith and in accordance with the advice or opinion of such counsel.

 

(f)                                   The Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, approval, bond, debenture, note or other paper or document unless requested in writing to do so by the holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Notes at the time outstanding, but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit, and, if the Trustee shall determine to make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and premises of the Issuers, personally or by agent or attorney, at the expense of the Issuers and shall Incur no liability of any kind by reason of such inquiry or investigation.

 

(g)                                  The Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the holders pursuant to this Indenture, unless such holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be Incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction.

 

(h)                                 The rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee, including its right to be indemnified, are extended to, and shall be enforceable by, the Trustee in each of its capacities hereunder, and each agent, custodian and other Person employed to act hereunder.

 

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(i)                                     The Trustee shall not be responsible or liable for any action taken or omitted by it in good faith at the direction of the holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Notes as to the time, method and place of conducting any proceedings for any remedy available to the Trustee or the exercising of any power conferred by this Indenture.

 

(j)                                    Any action taken, or omitted to be taken, by the Trustee in good faith pursuant to this Indenture upon the request or authority or consent of any person who, at the time of making such request or giving such authority or consent, is the holder of any Note shall be conclusive and binding upon future holders of Notes and upon Notes executed and delivered in exchange therefor or in place thereof.

 

(k)                                 The Trustee shall not be deemed to have notice of any Default or Event of Default unless a Trust Officer of the Trustee has actual knowledge thereof or unless written notice of any event which is in fact such a Default is received by the Trustee at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and such notice references the Notes and this Indenture.

 

(l)                                     The Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers’ Certificate setting forth the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers’ Certificate may be signed by any Person authorized to sign an Officers’ Certificate, including any Person specified as so authorized in any such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.

 

(m)                             The Trustee shall not be responsible or liable for punitive, special, indirect, or consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including, but not limited to, loss of profit) irrespective of whether the Trustee has been advised of the likelihood of such loss or damage and regardless of the form of actions.

 

(n)                                 The Trustee shall not be required to give any bond or surety in respect of the execution of the trusts and powers under this Indenture.

 

(o)                                 The Trustee shall not be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations under this Indenture arising out of or caused, directly or indirectly, by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, acts of God; earthquakes; fire; flood; terrorism; wars and other military disturbances; sabotage; epidemics; riots; interruptions; loss or malfunction of utilities, computer (hardware or software) or communication services; accidents; labor disputes; and acts of civil or military authorities and governmental action.

 

SECTION 7.03              Individual Rights of Trustee.  The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may become the owner or pledgee of Notes and may otherwise deal with the Issuers or their Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.  Any Paying Agent or Registrar may do the same with like rights.  However, the Trustee must comply with Section 7.10 and 7.11.

 

SECTION 7.04              Trustee’s Disclaimer.  The Trustee shall not be responsible for and makes no representation as to the validity or adequacy of this Indenture, the Subsidiary Guarantees or the Notes, it shall not be accountable for the Issuers’ use of the proceeds from the Notes, and it shall not be responsible for any statement of the Issuers or any Subsidiary

 

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Guarantor in this Indenture or in any document issued in connection with the sale of the Notes or in the Notes other than the Trustee’s certificate of authentication.  The Trustee shall not be charged with knowledge of any Default or Event of Default under Sections 6.01(c), (d), (e), (f), (g), (h) or (i) or of the identity of any Significant Subsidiary unless either (a) a Trust Officer shall have actual knowledge thereof or (b) the Trustee shall have received written notice thereof in accordance with Section 14.02 hereof from the Issuers, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any holder.  In accepting the trust hereby created, the Trustee acts solely as Trustee under this Indenture and not in its individual capacity and all persons, including without limitation the holders of Notes and the Issuers having any claim against the Trustee arising from this Indenture shall look only to the funds and accounts held by the Trustee hereunder for payment except as otherwise provided herein.

 

SECTION 7.05              Notice of Defaults.  If a Default occurs and is continuing and is actually known to a Trust Officer of the Trustee, the Trustee shall mail, or deliver electronically if held by the Depository, to each holder of the Notes notice of the Default within the earlier of 90 days after it occurs or 30 days after it is actually known to a Trust Officer or written notice of it is received by the Trustee.  Except in the case of a Default in the payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on any Note, the Trustee may withhold notice if and so long as the Trustee in good faith determines that withholding notice is in the interests of the noteholders.  Holdings is required to deliver to the Trustee, annually, a certificate indicating whether the signers thereof know of any Default that occurred during the previous year. Holdings also is required to deliver to the Trustee, within 30 days after the occurrence thereof, written notice of any event which would constitute certain Defaults, their status and what action Holdings is taking or proposes to take in respect thereof.

 

SECTION 7.06              Reports by Trustee to the Holders.  As promptly as practicable after each November 1 beginning with the November 1 following the date of this Indenture, and in any event prior to December 1 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each holder a brief report dated as of such November 1 that complies with Section 313(a) of the TIA if and to the extent required thereby.  The Trustee shall also comply with Section 313(b) of the TIA.

 

Pursuant to Section 313(d) of the TIA, a copy of each report at the time of its mailing to the holders shall be filed with the SEC and each stock exchange (if any) on which the Notes are listed if the Notes are listed.  Holdings agrees to notify promptly the Trustee whenever the Notes become listed on any stock exchange and of any delisting thereof. All reports pursuant to this Section 7.06 shall be provided in accordance with Section 313(c) of the TIA.

 

SECTION 7.07              Compensation and Indemnity.  The Issuers shall pay to the Trustee from time to time compensation for the Trustee’s acceptance of this Indenture and its services hereunder.  The Trustee’s compensation shall not be limited by any law on compensation of a trustee of an express trust.  The Issuers shall reimburse the Trustee upon request for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses Incurred or made by it, including costs of collection, in addition to the compensation for its services.  Such expenses shall include the reasonable compensation and expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee’s agents, counsel, accountants and experts.  The Issuers and the Subsidiary Guarantors, jointly and severally, shall indemnify the Trustee or any predecessor Trustee and their directors, officers,

 

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employees and agents against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage or expense (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses and including taxes (other than taxes based upon, measured by or determined by the income of the Trustee) Incurred by or in connection with the acceptance or administration of this trust and the performance of its duties hereunder, including the costs and expenses of enforcing this Indenture or Subsidiary Guarantee against any Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor (including this Section 7.07) and defending itself against or investigating any claim (whether asserted by any Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, any holder or any other Person).  The obligation to pay such amounts shall survive the payment in full or defeasance of the Notes or the removal or resignation of the Trustee.  The Trustee shall notify the Issuers of any claim for which it may seek indemnity promptly upon obtaining actual knowledge thereof; provided, however, that any failure so to notify the Issuers shall not relieve any Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor of its indemnity obligations hereunder.  The Issuers shall defend the claim and the indemnified party shall provide reasonable cooperation at the Issuers’ expense in the defense.  Such indemnified parties may have separate counsel and the Issuers and such Subsidiary Guarantor, as applicable, shall pay the fees and expenses of such counsel; provided, however, that the Issuers shall not be required to pay such fees and expenses if it assumes such indemnified parties’ defense and, in such indemnified parties’ reasonable judgment, there is no actual or potential conflict of interest between the Issuers and the Subsidiary Guarantor, as applicable, and such parties in connection with such defense.  The Issuers need not reimburse any expense or indemnify against any loss, liability or expense Incurred by an indemnified party through such party’s own willful misconduct, negligence or bad faith.

 

To secure the Issuers’ and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ payment obligations in this Section 7.07, the Trustee shall have a Lien prior to the Notes on all money or property held or collected by the Trustee other than money or property held in trust to pay principal of and interest on particular Notes.

 

The Issuers’ and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ payment obligations pursuant to this Section 7.07 shall survive the satisfaction or discharge of this Indenture, any rejection or termination of this Indenture under any bankruptcy law or the resignation or removal of the Trustee.  Without prejudice to any other rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee Incurs expenses after the occurrence of a Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuer, the expenses are intended to constitute expenses of administration under the Bankruptcy Law.

 

No provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise Incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability is not assured to its satisfaction.

 

SECTION 7.08              Replacement of Trustee.

 

(a)                                 The Trustee may resign at any time by so notifying the Issuer.  The holders of a majority in principal amount of the Notes may remove the Trustee by so notifying the Trustee and may appoint a successor Trustee.  The Issuers shall remove the Trustee if:

 

(i)                                     the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10;

 

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(ii)                                  the Trustee is adjudged bankrupt or insolvent;

 

(iii)                               a receiver or other public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or

 

(iv)                              the Trustee otherwise becomes incapable of acting.

 

(b)                                 If the Trustee resigns, is removed by the Issuers or by the holders of a majority in principal amount of the Notes and such holders do not reasonably promptly appoint a successor Trustee, or if a vacancy exists in the office of Trustee for any reason (the Trustee in such event being referred to herein as the retiring Trustee), the Issuers shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee.

 

(c)                                  A successor Trustee shall deliver a written acceptance of its appointment to the retiring Trustee and to the Issuers.  Thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective, and the successor Trustee shall have all the rights, powers and duties of the Trustee under this Indenture.  The successor Trustee shall mail a notice of its succession to the holders.  The retiring Trustee shall promptly transfer all property held by it as Trustee to the successor Trustee, subject to the Lien provided for in Section 7.07.

 

(d)                                 If a successor Trustee does not take office within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the retiring Trustee or the holders of 10% in principal amount of the Notes may petition at the expense of the Issuers any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.

 

(e)                                  If the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10, unless the Trustee’s duty to resign is stayed as provided in Section 310(b) of the TIA, any holder who has been a bona fide holder of a Note for at least six months may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee.

 

(f)                                   Notwithstanding the replacement of the Trustee pursuant to this Section, the Issuer’s obligations under Section 7.07 shall continue for the benefit of the retiring Trustee.

 

SECTION 7.09              Successor Trustee by Merger.  If the Trustee consolidates with, merges or converts into, or transfers all or substantially all its corporate trust business or assets to, another corporation or banking association, the resulting, surviving or transferee corporation or banking association without any further act shall be the successor Trustee.

 

In case at the time such successor or successors by merger, conversion or consolidation to the Trustee shall succeed to the trusts created by this Indenture any of the Notes shall have been authenticated but not delivered, any such successor to the Trustee may adopt the certificate of authentication of any predecessor trustee, and deliver such Notes so authenticated; and in case at that time any of the Notes shall not have been authenticated, any successor to the Trustee may authenticate such Notes either in the name of any predecessor hereunder or in the name of the successor to the Trustee; and in all such cases such certificates shall have the full force which it is anywhere in the Notes or in this Indenture provided that the certificate of the Trustee shall have.

 

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SECTION 7.10              Eligibility; Disqualification.  The Trustee shall at all times satisfy the requirements of Section 310(a) of the TIA.  The Trustee shall have a combined capital and surplus of at least $100 million as set forth in its most recent published annual report of condition.  The Trustee shall comply with Section 310(b) of the TIA, subject to its right to apply for a stay of its duty to resign under the penultimate paragraph of Section 310(b) of the TIA; provided, however, that there shall be excluded from the operation of Section 310(b)(1) of the TIA any series of securities issued under this Indenture and any indenture or indentures under which other securities or certificates of interest or participation in other securities of the Issuers are outstanding if the requirements for such exclusion set forth in Section 310(b)(1) of the TIA are met.

 

SECTION 7.11              Preferential Collection of Claims Against the Issuers.  The Trustee shall comply with Section 311(a) of the TIA, excluding any creditor relationship listed in Section 311(b) of the TIA.  A Trustee who has resigned or been removed shall be subject to Section 311(a) of the TIA to the extent indicated.

 

ARTICLE VIII

 

DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE

 

SECTION 8.01              Discharge of Liability on Notes; Defeasance.

 

(a)                                 This Indenture shall be discharged and shall cease to be of further effect (except as to surviving rights and immunities of the Trustee and rights of registration of transfer or exchange of Notes, as expressly provided for in this Indenture) as to all outstanding Notes when:

 

(i)                                     either (A) all the Notes theretofore authenticated and delivered (except lost, stolen or destroyed Notes which have been replaced or paid and Notes for whose payment money has theretofore been deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and thereafter repaid to the Issuers or discharged from such trust) have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation or (B) all of the Notes (1) have become due and payable, (2) will become due and payable at their stated maturity within one year or (3) if redeemable at the option of the Issuers, are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Issuers, and the Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee funds in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the entire Indebtedness on the Notes not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, for principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Notes to the date of deposit together with irrevocable instructions from the Issuers directing the Trustee to apply such funds to the payment thereof at maturity or redemption, as the case may be; provided that upon any redemption that requires the payment of the Applicable Premium, the amount deposited shall be sufficient for purposes of this Indenture to the extent that an amount is deposited with the Trustee equal to the Applicable Premium calculated as of the date the notice of redemption is delivered, with any deficit as of the date of the redemption only required to be deposited with the Trustee on or prior to the date of the redemption;

 

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(ii)                                  the Issuers and/or the Subsidiary Guarantors have paid all other sums payable under this Indenture; and

 

(iii)                               the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent under this Indenture relating to the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture have been complied with.

 

(b)                                 Subject to Sections 8.01(c) and 8.02, the Issuers at any time may terminate (i) all of their obligations under the Notes and this Indenture with respect to the holders of the Notes (“legal defeasance option”), and (ii) their obligations under Sections 4.02, 4.03, 4.04, 4.05, 4.06, 4.07, 4.08, 4.09, 4.11, 4.12 and 4.15 and the operation of 5.01 for the benefit of the holders of the Notes, and Sections 6.01(c), 6.01(d), 6.01(e), 6.01(f), 6.01(g) (in the case of Sections 6.01(f) and 6.01(g) with respect to Significant Subsidiaries of the Issuers only), 6.01(h) and 6.01(i) (“covenant defeasance option”). The Issuers may exercise their legal defeasance option notwithstanding their prior exercise of their covenant defeasance option.  In the event that the Issuers terminate all of their obligations under the Notes and this Indenture (with respect to such Notes) by exercising their legal defeasance option or their covenant defeasance option,the obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor with respect to its Subsidiary Guarantee shall be terminated simultaneously with the termination of such obligations.

 

If the Issuers exercise their legal defeasance option, payment of the Notes so defeased may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default with respect thereto.  If the Issuers exercise their covenant defeasance option, payment of the Notes so defeased may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default specified in Sections 6.01(c), 6.01(d), 6.01(e), 6.01(f), 6.01(g) (with respect to Significant Subsidiaries of Holdings only) and 6.01(h) or because of the failure of Holdings to comply with Section 5.01.

 

Upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth herein and upon request of the Issuers, the Trustee shall acknowledge in writing the discharge of those obligations that the Issuers terminate.

 

(c)                                  Notwithstanding clauses (a) and (b) above, the Issuers’ obligations in Sections 2.04, 2.05, 2.06, 2.07, 2.08 and 2.09 and Article VII, including, without limitation, Sections 7.07, 7.08 and 7.09, and in this Article VIII and the rights and immunities of the Trustee under this Indenture shall survive until the Notes have been paid in full.  Thereafter, the Issuers’ obligations in Sections 7.07, 7.08, 8.05 and 8.06 and the rights and immunities of the Trustee under this Indenture shall survive such satisfaction and discharge.

 

SECTION 8.02              Conditions to Defeasance.

 

(a)                                 The Issuers may exercise their legal defeasance option or their covenant defeasance option only if:

 

(i)                                     the Issuers irrevocably deposit in trust with the Trustee cash in U.S. Dollars, U.S. Government Obligations or a combination thereof sufficient, or a combination thereof sufficient, to pay the principal of and, premium (if any) and interest on the Notes when due at maturity or redemption, as the case may be;

 

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(ii)                                  the Issuers deliver to the Trustee a certificate from a nationally recognized firm of independent accountants expressing their opinion that the payments of principal and interest when due and without reinvestment on the deposited U.S. Government Obligations plus any deposited money without investment will provide cash at such times and in such amounts as will be sufficient to pay principal, premium, if any, and interest when due on all the Notes to maturity or redemption, as the case may be;

 

(iii)                               no Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuers shall have occurred or is continuing on the date of such deposit;

 

(iv)                              the deposit does not constitute a default under any other material agreement or instrument binding on the Issuers;

 

(v)                                 in the case of the legal defeasance option, the Issuers shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that (1) the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (2) since the date of this Indenture there has been a change in the applicable U.S. federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such Opinion of Counsel shall confirm that, the holders of the Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred (and, in the case of legal defeasance only, such Opinion of Counsel must be based on a ruling of the Internal Revenue Service or change in applicable U.S. federal income tax law).  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Opinion of Counsel required by the immediately preceding sentence with respect to a legal defeasance need not be delivered if all of the Notes not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation (x) have become due and payable or (y) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Issuers;

 

(vi)                              such exercise does not impair the right of any holder to receive payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on such holder’s Notes on or after the due dates therefore or to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on or with respect to such holder’s Notes;

 

(vii)                           in the case of the covenant defeasance option, the Issuers shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that the holders will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred; and

 

(viii)                        the Issuers deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent to the defeasance and discharge of the Notes to be so defeased and discharged as contemplated by this Article VIII have been complied with.

 

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(b)                                 Before or after a deposit, the Issuers may make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the redemption of such Notes at a future date in accordance with Article III.

 

SECTION 8.03              Application of Trust Money.  The Trustee shall hold in trust money or U.S. Government Obligations (including proceeds thereof) deposited with it pursuant to this Article VIII.  The Trustee shall apply the deposited money and the money from U.S. Government Obligations through each Paying Agent and in accordance with this Indenture to the payment of principal of and interest on the Notes so discharged or defeased.

 

SECTION 8.04              Repayment to Issuer.  Each of the Trustee and each Paying Agent shall promptly turn over to the Issuers upon request any money or U.S. Government Obligations held by it as provided in this Article VIII that, in the written opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants delivered to the Trustee (which delivery shall only be required if U.S. Government Obligations have been so deposited), are in excess of the amount thereof that would then be required to be deposited to effect an equivalent discharge or defeasance in accordance with this Article VIII.

 

Subject to any applicable abandoned property law, the Trustee and each Paying Agent shall pay to the Issuers upon written request any money held by them for the payment of principal or interest that remains unclaimed for two years, and, thereafter, holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuers for payment as general creditors, and the Trustee and each Paying Agent shall have no further liability with respect to such monies.

 

SECTION 8.05              Indemnity for U.S. Government Obligations.  The Issuers shall pay and shall indemnify the Trustee against any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against deposited U.S. Government Obligations or the principal and interest received on such U.S. Government Obligations.

 

SECTION 8.06              Reinstatement.  If the Trustee or any Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article VIII by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the Issuers’ obligations under this Indenture and the Notes so discharged or defeased shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to this Article VIII until such time as the Trustee or any Paying Agent is permitted to apply all such money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article VIII; provided, however, that, if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of, or interest on, any such Notes because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the rights of the holders of such Notes to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government Obligations held by the Trustee or any Paying Agent.

 

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ARTICLE IX

 

AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS

 

SECTION 9.01              Without Consent of the Holders.

 

(a)                                 The Issuers and the Trustee may amend this Indenture, the Notes and the Subsidiary Guarantees without notice to or consent of any holder:

 

(i)                                     to cure any ambiguity, omission, mistake, defect or inconsistency;

 

(ii)                                  to provide for the assumption by a Successor Holdco (with respect to an Issuer) of the obligations of an Issuer under this Indenture and the Notes;

 

(iii)                               to provide for the assumption by a Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (with respect to any Subsidiary Guarantor), as the case may be, of the obligations of a Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture and its Subsidiary Guarantee;

 

(iv)                              to provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes, provided, however, that the uncertificated Notes are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code, or in a manner such that the uncertificated notes are described in Section 163(f)(2)(B) of the Code;

 

(v)                                 to conform the text of this Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees to any provision of the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent that such provision in this Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees was intended by the Issuers to be verbatim recitation of a provision in the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum, as stated in an Officers’ Certificate;

 

(vi)                              to add a guarantee or obligor with respect to the Notes,

 

(vii)                           to secure the Notes;

 

(viii)                        to release a Subsidiary Guarantee as permitted by this Indenture;

 

(ix)                              [intentionally omitted];

 

(x)                                 to add to the covenants of the Issuers for the benefit of the holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuers;

 

(xi)                              to comply with any requirement of the SEC in connection with qualifying or maintaining the qualification of, this Indenture under the TIA;

 

(xii)                           to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any holder; or

 

(xiii)                        to provide for the issuance of Additional Notes or Exchange Notes, which shall have terms substantially identical in all material respects to the Initial Notes, and which shall be treated, together with any outstanding Initial Notes, as a single issue of securities.

 

(b)                                 [Intentionally Omitted].

 

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(c)                                  After an amendment under this Section 9.01 becomes effective, the Issuers shall mail, or otherwise deliver in accordance with the procedures of the Depository, to the holders a notice briefly describing such amendment.  The failure to give such notice to all holders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section 9.01.

 

SECTION 9.02              With Consent of the Holders.  The Issuers and the Trustee may amend this Indenture, the Notes and the Subsidiary Guarantees with the consent of the Issuers and the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the Notes then outstanding voting as a single class (including consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange for the Notes).  However, without the consent of each holder of an outstanding Note affected, an amendment may not:

 

(1)                                 reduce the amount of Notes whose holders must consent to an amendment,

 

(2)                                 reduce the rate of or extend the time for payment of interest on any Note,

 

(3)                                 reduce the principal of or change the Stated Maturity of any Note,

 

(4)                                 reduce the premium payable upon the redemption of any Note or change the time at which any Note may be redeemed in accordance with Article III,

 

(5)                                 make any Note payable in money other than that stated in such Note,

 

(6)                                 expressly subordinate the Notes or any related Subsidiary Guarantee to any other Indebtedness of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor,

 

(7)                                 impair the right of any holder to receive payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on such holder’s Notes on or after the due dates therefor or to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on or with respect to such holder’s Notes, or

 

(8)                                 make any change in the amendment provisions which require each holder’s consent or in the waiver provisions.

 

Except as expressly provided by this Indenture, without the consent of holders of at least 66.67% in aggregate principal amount of Notes then outstanding, no amendment may modify or release the Subsidiary Guarantee of any Significant Subsidiary in any manner adverse to the holders of the Notes.

 

It shall not be necessary for the consent of the holders under this Section 9.02 to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment, but it shall be sufficient if such consent approves the substance thereof.

 

After an amendment under this Section 9.02 becomes effective, the Issuers shall mail, or otherwise deliver in accordance with the procedures of the Depository, to the holders a notice briefly describing such amendment.  The failure to give such notice to all holders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section 9.02.

 

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SECTION 9.03              Revocation and Effect of Consents and Waivers.

 

(a)                                 A consent to an amendment or a waiver by a holder of a Note shall bind the holder and every subsequent holder of that Note or portion of the Note that evidences the same debt as the consenting holder’s Note, even if notation of the consent or waiver is not made on the Note.  However, any such holder or subsequent holder may revoke the consent or waiver as to such holder’s Note or portion of the Note if the Trustee receives the notice of revocation before the date on which the Trustee receives an Officers’ Certificate from Holdings certifying that the requisite principal amount of Notes have consented.  After an amendment or waiver becomes effective, it shall bind every holder.  An amendment or waiver becomes effective upon the (i) receipt by the Issuers or the Trustee of consents by the holders of the requisite principal amount of securities, (ii) satisfaction of conditions to effectiveness as set forth in this Indenture and any indenture supplemental hereto containing such amendment or waiver and (iii) execution of such amendment or waiver (or supplemental indenture) by the Issuers and the Trustee.

 

(b)                                 The Issuers may, but shall not be obligated to, fix a record date for the purpose of determining the holders entitled to give their consent or take any other action described above or required or permitted to be taken pursuant to this Indenture.  If a record date is fixed, then notwithstanding the immediately preceding paragraph, those Persons who were holders at such record date (or their duly designated proxies), and only those Persons, shall be entitled to give such consent or to revoke any consent previously given or to take any such action, whether or not such Persons continue to be holders after such record date.  No such consent shall be valid or effective for more than 120 days after such record date.

 

SECTION 9.04              Notation on or Exchange of Notes.  If an amendment, supplement or waiver changes the terms of a Note, the Issuers may require the holder of the Note to deliver it to the Trustee.  The Trustee may place an appropriate notation on the Note regarding the changed terms and return it to the holder.  Alternatively, if the Issuers or the Trustee so determine, the Issuers in exchange for the Note shall issue and, upon written order of each Issuer signed by an Officer, the Trustee shall authenticate a new Note that reflects the changed terms.  Failure to make the appropriate notation or to issue a new Note shall not affect the validity of such amendment, supplement or waiver.

 

SECTION 9.05              Trustee to Sign Amendments.  The Trustee shall sign any amendment, supplement or waiver authorized pursuant to this Article IX if the amendment does not adversely affect the rights, duties, liabilities or immunities of the Trustee.  If it does, the Trustee may but need not sign it.  In signing such amendment, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive indemnity satisfactory to it and shall be provided with, and (subject to Section 7.01) shall be fully protected in relying upon, (i) an Officers’ Certificate, (ii) an Opinion of Counsel stating that such amendment, supplement or waiver is authorized or permitted by this Indenture and that such amendment, supplement or waiver is the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers and any Subsidiary Guarantors, enforceable against them in accordance with its terms, subject to customary exceptions, and complies with the provisions hereof, (iii) a copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors, certified by the Secretary or Assistant Secretary of Holdings, authorizing the execution of such amendment, supplement or waiver and (iv) if such amendment, supplement or waiver is executed pursuant to Section 9.02, evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee of the consent of the holders required to consent thereto.

 

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SECTION 9.06              Additional Voting Terms; Calculation of Principal Amount.  All Notes issued under this Indenture shall vote and consent together on all matters (as to which any of such Notes may vote) as one class and no Notes will have the right to vote or consent as a separate class on any matter.  Determinations as to whether holders of the requisite aggregate principal amount of Notes have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent shall be made in accordance with this Article IX and Section 2.13.

 

SECTION 9.07              Compliance with the Trust Indenture Act.  From the date on which this Indenture is qualified under the TIA, every amendment, waiver or supplement to this Indenture or the Notes shall comply with the TIA as then in effect.

 

ARTICLE X

 

[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]

 

ARTICLE XI

 

[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]

 

ARTICLE XII

 

GUARANTEE

 

SECTION 12.01       Guarantee.

 

(a)                                 Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby jointly and severally, irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees, on a senior unsecured basis from the Issue Date, as a primary obligor and not merely as a surety, to each holder and to the Trustee and its successors and assigns (i) the performance and punctual payment when due, whether at Stated Maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, of all obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Notes, whether for payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on the Notes and all other monetary obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Notes and (ii) the full and punctual performance within applicable grace periods of all other obligations of the Issuers whether for fees, expenses, indemnification or otherwise under this Indenture and the Notes (all the foregoing being hereinafter collectively called the “Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations”).  Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations may be extended or renewed, in whole or in part, without notice or further assent from any Subsidiary Guarantor, and that each Subsidiary Guarantor shall remain bound under this Article XII notwithstanding any extension or renewal of any Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligation.

 

(b)                                 Each Subsidiary Guarantor waives presentation to, demand of payment from and protest to the Issuers of any of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations and also waives notice of protest for nonpayment.  Each Subsidiary Guarantor waives notice of any default under the Notes or the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations.  The obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder shall not be affected by (i) the failure of any holder or the Trustee to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against the Issuers or any other Person under this Indenture, the Notes or any other agreement or otherwise; (ii) any extension or

 

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renewal of this Indenture, the Notes or any other agreement; (iii) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of this Indenture, the Notes or any other agreement; (iv) the release of any security held by any holder or the Trustee for the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations or each Subsidiary Guarantor; (v) the failure of any holder or Trustee to exercise any right or remedy against any other guarantor of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations; or (vi) any change in the ownership of each Subsidiary Guarantor, except as provided in Section 12.02(b). Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to have its obligations hereunder divided among the Subsidiary Guarantors, such that such Subsidiary Guarantor’s obligations would be less than the full amount claimed.

 

(c)                                  Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to have the assets of the Issuers first be used and depleted as payment of the Issuers’ or such Subsidiary Guarantor’s obligations hereunder prior to any amounts being claimed from or paid by such Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder.  Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to require that the Issuers be sued prior to an action being initiated against such Subsidiary Guarantor.

 

(d)                                 Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee herein constitutes a guarantee of payment, performance and compliance when due (and not a guarantee of collection) and waives any right to require that any resort be had by any holder or the Trustee to any security held for payment of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations.

 

(e)                                  The Subsidiary Guarantee of each Subsidiary Guarantor is, to the extent and in the manner set forth in Article XII, equal in right of payment to all existing and future Pari Passu Indebtedness, senior in right of payment to all existing and future Subordinated Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor and subordinated and subject in right of payment to the prior payment in full of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest on all Secured Indebtedness of the relevant Subsidiary Guarantor and is made subject to such provisions of this Indenture.

 

(f)                                   Except as expressly set forth in Sections 8.01(b), 12.02 and 12.06, the obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder shall not be subject to any reduction, limitation, impairment or termination for any reason, including any claim of waiver, release, surrender, alteration or compromise, and shall not be subject to any defense of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment or termination whatsoever or by reason of the invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations or otherwise.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor herein shall not be discharged or impaired or otherwise affected by the failure of any holder or the Trustee to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any remedy under this Indenture, the Notes or any other agreement, by any waiver or modification of any thereof, by any default, failure or delay, willful or otherwise, in the performance of the obligations, or by any other act or thing or omission or delay to do any other act or thing which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risk of any Subsidiary Guarantor or would otherwise operate as a discharge of any Subsidiary Guarantor as a matter of law or equity.

 

(g)                                  Each Subsidiary Guarantor agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee shall remain in full force and effect until payment in full of all the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations.

 

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Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee herein shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment, or any part thereof, of principal of or interest on any Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligation is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by any holder or the Trustee upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of the Issuers or otherwise.

 

(h)                                 In furtherance of the foregoing and not in limitation of any other right which any holder or the Trustee has at law or in equity against any Subsidiary Guarantor by virtue hereof, upon the failure of the Issuers to pay the principal of or interest on any Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligation when and as the same shall become due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, or to perform or comply with any other Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligation, each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby promises to and shall, upon receipt of written demand by the Trustee, forthwith pay, or cause to be paid, in cash, to the holders or the Trustee an amount equal to the sum of (i) the unpaid principal amount of such Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations, (ii) accrued and unpaid interest on such Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations (but only to the extent not prohibited by applicable law) and (iii) all other monetary obligations of the Issuers to the holders and the Trustee.

 

(i)                                     Each Subsidiary Guarantor agrees that it shall not be entitled to any right of subrogation in relation to the holders in respect of any Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby until payment in full of all Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations.  Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that, as between it, on the one hand, and the holders and the Trustee, on the other hand, (i) the maturity of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby may be accelerated as provided in Article VI for the purposes of the Subsidiary Guarantee herein, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby, and (ii) in the event of any declaration of acceleration of such Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations as provided in Article VI, such Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations (whether or not due and payable) shall forthwith become due and payable by the Subsidiary Guarantors for the purposes of this Section 12.01.

 

(j)                                    Each Subsidiary Guarantor also agrees to pay any and all costs and expenses (including reasonable out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the Trustee in enforcing any rights under this Section 12.01.

 

(k)                                 Upon request of the Trustee, each Subsidiary Guarantor shall execute and deliver such further instruments and do such further acts as may be reasonably necessary or proper to carry out more effectively the purpose of this Indenture.

 

SECTION 12.02       Limitation on Liability.

 

(a)                                 Any term or provision of this Indenture to the contrary notwithstanding, the maximum aggregate amount of the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereunder by each Subsidiary Guarantor shall not exceed the maximum amount that can be hereby guaranteed by the applicable Subsidiary Guarantor without rendering this Indenture, as it relates to such Subsidiary Guarantor, voidable under applicable law relating to fraudulent conveyance or

 

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fraudulent transfer or similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally or capital maintenance or corporate benefit rules applicable to guarantees for obligations of affiliates.

 

(b)                                 A Subsidiary Guarantee as to any Restricted Subsidiary that is a party hereto on the date hereof or that executes a supplemental indenture in accordance with Section 4.11 hereof and provides a guarantee shall terminate and be of no further force or effect and such Subsidiary Guarantee shall be deemed to be released from all obligations under this Article XII upon:

 

(i)                                     the sale, disposition, exchange or other transfer (including through merger, consolidation, amalgamation or otherwise) of the Capital Stock (including any sale, disposition or other transfer following which the applicable Subsidiary Guarantor is no longer a Restricted Subsidiary), of the applicable Subsidiary Guarantor if such sale, disposition, exchange or other transfer is made in a manner not in violation of this Indenture;

 

(ii)                                  the designation of such Subsidiary Guarantor as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the provisions of Section 4.04 and the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary”;

 

(iii)                               the release or discharge of the guarantee by such Subsidiary Guarantor of the Credit Agreement or other Indebtedness or the guarantee of any other Indebtedness which resulted in the obligation to guarantee the Notes;

 

(iv)                              the Issuers’ exercise of their legal defeasance option or covenant defeasance option under Article VIII or if the Issuers’ obligations under this Indenture are discharged in accordance with the terms of this Indenture;

 

(v)                                 such Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Subsidiary as a result of any foreclosure of any pledge or security interest securing Bank Indebtedness or other exercise of remedies in respect thereof; and

 

(vi)                              the occurrence of a Covenant Suspension Event.

 

SECTION 12.03       [Intentionally Omitted].

 

SECTION 12.04       Successors and Assigns.  This Article XII shall be binding upon each Subsidiary Guarantor and its successors and assigns and shall inure to the benefit of the successors, transferees and assigns of the Trustee and the holders and, in the event of any transfer or assignment of rights by any holder or the Trustee, the rights and privileges conferred upon that party in this Indenture and in the Notes shall automatically extend to and be vested in such transferee or assignee, all subject to the terms and conditions of this Indenture.

 

SECTION 12.05       No Waiver.  Neither a failure nor a delay on the part of either the Trustee or the holders in exercising any right, power or privilege under this Article XII shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall a single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise of any right, power or privilege.  The rights, remedies and benefits of the Trustee and the holders herein expressly specified are cumulative and not exclusive of any other

 

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rights, remedies or benefits which either may have under this Article XII at law, in equity, by statute or otherwise.

 

SECTION 12.06       Modification.  No modification, amendment or waiver of any provision of this Article XII, nor the consent to any departure by any Subsidiary Guarantor therefrom, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Trustee, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given.  No notice to or demand on any Subsidiary Guarantor in any case shall entitle any Subsidiary Guarantor to any other or further notice or demand in the same, similar or other circumstances.

 

SECTION 12.07       Execution of Supplemental Indenture for Future Guarantors.  Each Subsidiary which is required to become a Subsidiary Guarantor of the Notes pursuant to Section 4.11 shall promptly execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture in the form of Exhibit D hereto pursuant to which such Subsidiary shall become a Subsidiary Guarantor under this Article XII and shall guarantee the Notes.  Concurrently with the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture, Holdings shall deliver to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel and an Officers’ Certificate certifying that such supplemental indenture has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by such Subsidiary and that, subject to the application of bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or transfer and other similar laws relating to creditors’ rights generally and to the principles of equity, whether considered in a proceeding at law or in equity, the Subsidiary Guarantee of such Subsidiary Guarantor is a valid and binding obligation of such Subsidiary Guarantor, enforceable against such Subsidiary Guarantor in accordance with its terms and/or to such other matters as the Trustee may reasonably request.

 

SECTION 12.08       Non-Impairment.  The failure to endorse a Subsidiary Guarantee on any Note shall not affect or impair the validity thereof.

 

ARTICLE XIII

 

[INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]

 

ARTICLE XIV

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

SECTION 14.01       Trust Indenture Act Controls.  If and to the extent that any provision of this Indenture limits, qualifies or conflicts with the duties imposed by, or with another provision (an “incorporated provision”) included in this Indenture by operation of, Sections 310 to 318 of the TIA, inclusive, such imposed duties or incorporated provision shall control.

 

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SECTION 14.02       Notices.

 

(a)                                 Any notice or communication required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and delivered in person, via facsimile or mailed by first-class mail addressed as follows:

 

if to the Issuers or a Subsidiary Guarantor:

 

c/o EP Energy LLC
 1001 Louisiana Street
 Houston, TX  77002
 Attention:  Dane Whitehead, Chief Financial Officer

Marguerite Woung-Chapman, General Counsel

Fax:  713-420-6603

 

with copies to:

 

c/o Apollo Management, L.P.
 9 West 57th Street, 43rd Floor
 New York, NY  10019
 Attention:  Chief Legal Officer
 Fax:  646-417-6651

 

and

 

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP
 1285 Avenue of the Americas
 New York, NY  10019
 Attention:  Gregory Ezring

Catherine Goodall

Fax:  212-757-3990

 

if to the Trustee:

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association
 Global Capital Markets
 15950 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 550

Dallas, TX  75248

Attention:  Everest/EP Energy Administrator
 Fax:  888-316-6238

 

The Issuers or the Trustee by notice to the other may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.

 

(b)                                 Any notice or communication mailed to a holder shall be mailed, first class mail, to the holder at the holder’s address as it appears on the registration books of the Registrar and shall be sufficiently given if so mailed within the time prescribed.

 

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(c)                                  Failure to mail a notice or communication to a holder or any defect in it shall not affect its sufficiency with respect to other holders.  If a notice or communication is mailed in the manner provided above, it is duly given, whether or not the addressee receives it, except that notices to the Trustee are effective only if received.

 

The Trustee may, in its sole discretion, agree to accept and act upon instructions or directions pursuant to this Indenture sent by e-mail, facsimile transmission or other similar electronic methods.  If the party elects to give the Trustee e-mail or facsimile instructions (or instructions by a similar electronic method) and the Trustee in its discretion elects to act upon such instructions, the Trustee’s understanding of such instructions shall be deemed controlling. The Trustee shall not be liable for any losses, costs or expenses arising directly or indirectly from the Trustee’s reliance upon and compliance with such instructions notwithstanding such instructions conflict or are inconsistent with a subsequent written instruction. The party providing electronic instructions agrees to assume all risks arising out of the use of such electronic methods to submit instructions and directions to the Trustee, including without limitation the risk of the Trustee acting on unauthorized instructions, and the risk or interception and misuse by third parties.

 

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, as long as the Notes are in the form of a Global Note, notice to the holders may be made electronically in accordance with procedures of the Depository.

 

SECTION 14.03       Communication by the Holders with Other Holders.  The holders may communicate pursuant to Section 312(b) of the TIA with other holders with respect to their rights under this Indenture or the Notes.  The Issuer, the Trustee, the Registrar and other Persons shall have the protection of Section 312(c) of the TIA.

 

SECTION 14.04       Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent.  Upon any request or application by the Issuers to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking any action under this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee at the request of the Trustee:

 

(a)                                 an Officers’ Certificate in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with; and

 

(b)                                 an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such counsel, all such conditions precedent have been complied with.

 

SECTION 14.05       Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion.  Each certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a covenant or condition provided for in this Indenture (other than pursuant to Section 4.09) shall include:

 

(a)                                 a statement that the individual making such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition;

 

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(b)                                 a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

 

(c)                                  a statement that, in the opinion of such individual, he has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been complied with; and

 

(d)                                 a statement as to whether or not, in the opinion of such individual, such covenant or condition has been complied with; provided, however, that with respect to matters of fact an Opinion of Counsel may rely on an Officers’ Certificate or certificates of public officials.

 

SECTION 14.06       When Notes Disregarded.  In determining whether the holders of the required principal amount of Notes have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent, Notes owned by the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors or by any Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with the Issuers or the Subsidiary Guarantors shall be disregarded and deemed not to be outstanding, except that, for the purpose of determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying on any such direction, waiver or consent, only Notes which the Trustee actually knows are so owned shall be so disregarded.  Subject to the foregoing, only Notes outstanding at the time shall be considered in any such determination.

 

SECTION 14.07       Rules by Trustee, Paying Agent and Registrar.  The Trustee may make reasonable rules for action by or a meeting of the holders.  The Registrar and a Paying Agent may make reasonable rules for their functions.

 

SECTION 14.08       Legal Holidays.  If a payment date is not a Business Day, payment shall be made on the next succeeding day that is a Business Day, and no interest shall accrue on any amount that would have been otherwise payable on such payment date if it were a Business Day for the intervening period.  If a regular Record Date is not a Business Day, the Record Date shall not be affected.

 

SECTION 14.09       GOVERNING LAW.  THIS INDENTURE AND THE SECURITIES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

 

SECTION 14.10       No Recourse Against Others.  No director, officer, employee, manager, incorporator or holder of any Equity Interests in an Issuer or of any Subsidiary Guarantor or any direct or indirect parent companies, as such, shall have any liability for any obligations of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor under the Notes, the Subsidiary Guarantees or this Indenture, as applicable, or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation.  Each holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability.  The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes.

 

115

 

SECTION 14.11       Successors.  All agreements of the Issuers and the Subsidiary Guarantors in this Indenture and the Notes shall bind such person’s successors.  All agreements of the Trustee in this Indenture shall bind its successors.

 

SECTION 14.12       Multiple Originals.  The parties may sign any number of copies of this Indenture.  Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.  One signed copy is enough to prove this Indenture.

 

SECTION 14.13       Table of Contents; Headings.  The table of contents, cross-reference sheet and headings of the Articles and Sections of this Indenture have been inserted for convenience of reference only, are not intended to be considered a part hereof and shall not modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.

 

SECTION 14.14       Indenture Controls.  If and to the extent that any provision of the Notes limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of this Indenture, such provision of this Indenture shall control.

 

SECTION 14.15       Severability.  In case any provision in this Indenture shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and such provision shall be ineffective only to the extent of such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability.

 

SECTION 14.16       Waiver of Jury Trial.  EACH OF THE ISSUERS, THE SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS AND THE TRUSTEE HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS INDENTURE, THE NOTES OR THE TRANSACTION CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.

 

[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY LLC
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By: 
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: 
    	
Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: 
    	
Vice President and Treasurer
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By: 
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: 
    	
Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: 
    	
Vice President and Treasurer
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY GLOBAL LLC
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY E&P COMPANY, L.P.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY MANAGEMENT, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY GATHERING COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
EP ENERGY RESALE COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
CRYSTAL E&P COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
as Guarantors
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
By: 
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: Vice President and Treasurer
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
of each of the above listed Guarantors
    
					

 

[Signature Page to Indenture]

 

 

	
 
    	
WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, not in   its individual capacity, but solely as Trustee
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By: 
    	
/s/ Shawn Goffinet
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: Shawn Goffinet
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: Assistant Vice President
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
[Signature Page to Indenture]
    

 

 

APPENDIX A

 

PROVISIONS RELATING TO INITIAL NOTES, ADDITIONAL NOTES
 AND EXCHANGE NOTES

 

1.                                      Definitions.

 

1.1                               Definitions.

 

For the purposes of this Appendix A the following terms shall have the meanings indicated below:

 

“Additional Interest” has the meaning set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement.

 

“Definitive Note” means a certificated Initial Note, Additional Note or Exchange Note (bearing the Restricted Notes Legend if the transfer of such Note is restricted by applicable law) that does not include the Global Notes Legend.

 

“Depository” means The Depository Trust Company, its nominees and their respective successors.

 

“Global Notes Legend” means the legend set forth under that caption in the applicable Exhibit to this Indenture.

 

“IAI” means an institutional “accredited investor” as described in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act.

 

“Initial Purchasers” means RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, BMO Capital Markets Corp., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., UBS Securities LLC, Apollo Global Securities, LLC, Riverstone Capital Services LLC, Capital One Securities, Inc., CIBC World Markets Corp., BBVA Securities Inc., SG Americas Securities, LLC, Scotia Capital (USA) Inc., SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc., TD Securities (USA) LLC, Mitsubishi UFJ Securities (USA), Inc., SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc., DNB Markets, Inc., ING Financial Markets LLC, Mizuho Securities USA Inc., RBS Securities Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC. Comerica Securities, Inc. and Nomura Securities International, Inc.

 

“Notes Custodian” means the custodian with respect to a Global Note (as appointed by the Depository) or any successor person thereto, who shall initially be the Trustee.

 

“QIB” means a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A.

 

“Registered Exchange Offer” means the offer by the Issuers, pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, to certain holders of Initial Notes, to issue and deliver to such holders, in exchange for the Initial Notes, a like aggregate principal amount of Exchange Notes registered under the Securities Act.

 

Appendix A-1

 

“Regulation S” means Regulation S under the Securities Act.

 

“Regulation S Notes” means all Initial Notes offered and sold outside the United States in reliance on Regulation S.

 

“Restricted Notes Legend” means the legend set forth in Section 2.2(f)(i) herein.

 

“Restricted Period,” with respect to any Notes, means the period of 40 consecutive days beginning on and including the later of (a) the day on which such Notes are first offered to persons other than distributors (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) in reliance on Regulation S, notice of which day shall be promptly given by the Issuers to the Trustee, and (b) the Issue Date, and with respect to any Additional Notes that are Transfer Restricted Notes, it means the comparable period of 40 consecutive days.

 

“Rule 501” means Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act.

 

“Rule 144A” means Rule 144A under the Securities Act.

 

“Rule 144A Notes” means all Initial Notes offered and sold to QIBs in reliance on Rule 144A.

 

“Shelf Registration Statement” means the registration statement filed by the Issuers in connection with the offer and sale of Initial Notes pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement.

 

“Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes” means Definitive Notes that bear or are required to bear or are subject to the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

“Transfer Restricted Global Notes” means Global Notes that bear or are required to bear or are subject to the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

“Transfer Restricted Notes” means the Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes and Transfer Restricted Global Notes.

 

“Unrestricted Definitive Notes” means Definitive Notes that are not required to bear, or are not subject to, the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

“Unrestricted Global Notes” means Global Notes that are not required to bear, or are not subject to, the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

1.2                               Other Definitions.

 

	
Term:
    	
 
    	
Defined in Section:
    
	
Agent Members
    	
 
    	
2.1(b)
    
	
Global Notes
    	
 
    	
2.1(b)
    
	
Regulation S Global Notes
    	
 
    	
2.1(b)
    
	
Rule 144A Global Notes
    	
 
    	
2.1(b)
    

 

Appendix A-2

 

2.                                      The Notes.

 

2.1                               Form and Dating; Global Notes.

 

(a)                                 The Initial Notes issued on the date hereof will be (i) privately placed by the Issuers pursuant to the Offering Memorandum and (ii) sold, initially only to (1) QIBs in reliance on Rule 144A and (2) Persons other than U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S) in reliance on Regulation S.  Such Initial Notes may thereafter be transferred to, among others, QIBs, purchasers in reliance on Regulation S and, except as set forth below, IAIs in accordance with Rule 501.  Additional Notes offered after the date hereof may be offered and sold by the Issuers from time to time pursuant to one or more agreements in accordance with applicable law.

 

(b)                                 Global Notes.  (i)  Except as provided in clause (d) below, Rule 144A Notes initially shall be represented by one or more Notes in definitive, fully registered, global form without interest coupons (collectively, the “Rule 144A Global Notes”).

 

Regulation S Notes initially shall be represented by one or more Notes in fully registered, global form without interest coupons (collectively, the “Regulation S Global Notes”), which shall be registered in the name of the Depository or the nominee of the Depository for the accounts of designated agents holding on behalf of Euroclear or Clearstream.

 

The term “Global Notes” means the Rule 144A Global Notes and the Regulation S Global Notes.  The Global Notes shall bear the Global Note Legend.  The Global Notes initially shall (i) be registered in the name of the Depository or the nominee of such Depository, in each case for credit to an account of an Agent Member, (ii) be delivered to the Trustee as custodian for such Depository and (iii) bear the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

Members of, or direct or indirect participants in, the Depository (collectively, the “Agent Members”) shall have no rights under this Indenture with respect to any Global Note held on their behalf by the Depository, or the Trustee as its custodian, or under the Global Notes.  The Depository may be treated by the Issuers, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee as the absolute owner of the Global Notes for all purposes whatsoever.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall prevent the Issuers, the Trustee or any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by the Depository, or impair, as between the Depository and its Agent Members, the operation of customary practices governing the exercise of the rights of a holder of any Note.

 

(ii)                                  Transfers of Global Notes shall be limited to transfer in whole, but not in part, to the Depository, its successors or their respective nominees.  Interests of beneficial owners in the Global Notes may be transferred or exchanged for Definitive Notes only in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository and the provisions of Section 2.2.  In addition, a Global Note shall be exchangeable for Definitive Notes if (x) the Depository (1) notifies the Issuers that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depository for such Global Note and the Issuers thereupon fail to appoint a successor depository or (2) has ceased to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act or (y) there shall have occurred and be continuing an Event of Default with respect to such Global Note and a request has been made for such exchange; provided that in no event

 

Appendix A-3

 

shall the Regulation S Global Note be exchanged by the Issuers for Definitive Notes prior to (x) the expiration of the Restricted Period and (y) the receipt by the Registrar of any certificates required pursuant to Rule 903(b)(3)(ii)(B) under the Securities Act.  In all cases, Definitive Notes delivered in exchange for any Global Note or beneficial interests therein shall be registered in the names, and issued in any approved denominations, requested by or on behalf of the Depository in accordance with its customary procedures.

 

(iii)                               In connection with the transfer of a Global Note as an entirety to beneficial owners pursuant to subsection (i) of this Section 2.1(b), such Global Note shall be deemed to be surrendered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Issuers shall execute, and, upon written order of each Issuer signed by an Officer, the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery, to each beneficial owner identified by the Depository in writing in exchange for its beneficial interest in such Global Note, an equal aggregate principal amount of Definitive Notes of authorized denominations.

 

(iv)                              Any Transfer Restricted Note delivered in exchange for an interest in a Global Note pursuant to Section 2.2 shall, except as otherwise provided in Section 2.2, bear the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

(v)                                 Notwithstanding the foregoing, through the Restricted Period, a beneficial interest in a Regulation S Global Note may be held only through Euroclear or Clearstream unless delivery is made in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 2.2.

 

(vi)                              The holder of any Global Note may grant proxies and otherwise authorize any Person, including Agent Members and Persons that may hold interests through Agent Members, to take any action which a holder is entitled to take under this Indenture or the Notes.

 

2.2                               Transfer and Exchange.

 

(a)                                 Transfer and Exchange of Global Notes.  A Global Note may not be transferred as a whole except as set forth in Section 2.1(b).  Global Notes will not be exchanged by the Issuers for Definitive Notes except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii).  Global Notes also may be exchanged or replaced, in whole or in part, as provided in Section 2.08 of this Indenture.  Beneficial interests in a Global Note may be transferred and exchanged as provided in Section 2.2(b).

 

(b)                                 Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in Global Notes.  The transfer and exchange of beneficial interests in the Global Notes shall be effected through the Depository, in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture and the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository.  Beneficial interests in Transfer Restricted Global Notes shall be subject to restrictions on transfer comparable to those set forth herein to the extent required by the Securities Act.  Beneficial interests in Global Notes shall be transferred or exchanged only for beneficial interests in Global Notes.  Transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests in the Global Notes also shall require compliance with either subparagraph (i) or (ii) below, as applicable, as well as one or more of the other following subparagraphs, as applicable:

 

Appendix A-4

 

(i)                                     Transfer of Beneficial Interests in the Same Global Note.  Beneficial interests in any Transfer Restricted Global Note may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in the same Transfer Restricted Global Note in accordance with the transfer restrictions set forth in the Restricted Notes Legend; provided, however, that prior to the expiration of the Restricted Period, transfers of beneficial interests in a Regulation S Global Note may not be made to a U.S. Person or for the account or benefit of a U.S. Person.  A beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note.  No written orders or instructions shall be required to be delivered to the Registrar to effect the transfers described in this Section 2.2(b)(i).

 

(ii)                                  All Other Transfers and Exchanges of Beneficial Interests in Global Notes.  In connection with all transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests in any Global Note that is not subject to Section 2.2(b)(i), the transferor of such beneficial interest must deliver to the Registrar (1) a written order from an Agent Member given to the Depository in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository directing the Depository to credit or cause to be credited a beneficial interest in another Global Note in an amount equal to the beneficial interest to be transferred or exchanged and (2) instructions given in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository containing information regarding the Agent Member account to be credited with such increase.  Upon satisfaction of all of the requirements for transfer or exchange of beneficial interests in Global Notes contained in this Indenture and the Notes or otherwise applicable under the Securities Act, the Trustee shall adjust the principal amount of the relevant Global Note pursuant to Section 2.2(i).

 

(iii)                               Transfer of Beneficial Interests to Another Restricted Global Note.  A beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note may be transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Transfer Restricted Global Note if the transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.2(b)(ii) above and the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)                               if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in a Rule 144A Global Note, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note; and

 

(B)                               if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in a Regulation S Global Note, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note.

 

(iv)                              Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in a Transfer Restricted Global Note for Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Note.  A beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note may be exchanged by any holder thereof for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note if the exchange or transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.2(b)(ii) above and the Registrar receives the following:

 

Appendix A-5

 

(A)                               if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note; or

 

(B)                               if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note proposes to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note,

 

and, in each such case, if the Issuers or the Registrar so request or if the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers and the Registrar to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Restricted Notes Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.  If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (iv) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Note has not yet been issued, the Issuers shall issue and, upon receipt of an written order of Holdings in the form of an Officers’ Certificate in accordance with Section 2.01, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of beneficial interests transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (iv).

 

(v)                                 Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Note for Beneficial Interests in a Transfer Restricted Global Note.  Beneficial interests in an Unrestricted Global Note cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of, a beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note.

 

(c)                                  Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in Global Notes for Definitive Notes.  A beneficial interest in a Global Note may not be exchanged for a Definitive Note except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii).  A beneficial interest in a Global Note may not be transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Definitive Note except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii).  In any case, beneficial interests in Global Notes shall be transferred or exchanged only for Definitive Notes.

 

(d)                                 Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Notes for Beneficial Interests in Global Notes.  Transfers and exchanges of Definitive Notes for beneficial interests in the Global Notes also shall require compliance with either subparagraph (i), (ii) or (iii) below, as applicable:

 

(i)                                     Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Transfer Restricted Global Notes.  If any holder of a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note or to transfer such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note, then, upon receipt by the Registrar of the following documentation:

 

Appendix A-6

 

(A)                               if the holder of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Note for a beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(B)                               if such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to a QIB in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(C)                               if such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to a Non U.S. Person in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(D)                               if such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(E)                                if such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to an IAI in reliance on an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act other than those listed in subparagraphs (B) through (D) above, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note, including the certifications, certificates and Opinion of Counsel, if applicable; or

 

(F)                                 if such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to Holdings or a Subsidiary thereof, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

the Trustee shall cancel the Transfer Restricted Definitive Note, and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of the appropriate Transfer Restricted Global Note.

 

(ii)                                  Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Notes.  A holder of a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note may exchange such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transfer such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note only if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)                               if the holder of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note; or

 

(B)                               if the holder of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes proposes to transfer such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note to a Person who shall take

 

Appendix A-7

 

delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note,

 

and, in each such case, if the Issuers or the Registrar so request or if the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers and the Registrar to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Restricted Notes Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.  Upon satisfaction of the conditions of this subparagraph (ii), the Trustee shall cancel the Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of the Unrestricted Global Note.  If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (ii) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Note has not yet been issued, the Issuers shall issue and, upon receipt of an written order of Holdings in the form of an Officers’ Certificate, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of Transfer Restricted Notes transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (ii).

 

(iii)                               Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Notes.  A holder of an Unrestricted Definitive Note may exchange such Unrestricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transfer such Unrestricted Definitive Note to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note at any time.  Upon receipt of a request for such an exchange or transfer, the Trustee shall cancel the applicable Unrestricted Definitive Note and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of one of the Unrestricted Global Notes.  If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (iii) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Note has not yet been issued, the Issuers shall issue and, upon receipt of an written order of Holdings in the form of an Officers’ Certificate, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of Unrestricted Definitive Notes transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (iii).

 

(iv)                              Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Transfer Restricted Global Notes.  An Unrestricted Definitive Note cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of, a beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Global Note.

 

(e)                                  Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Notes for Definitive Notes.  Upon request by a holder of Definitive Notes and such holder’s compliance with the provisions of this Section 2.2(e), the Registrar shall register the transfer or exchange of Definitive Notes.  Prior to such registration of transfer or exchange, the requesting holder shall present or surrender to the Registrar the Definitive Notes duly endorsed or accompanied by a written instruction of transfer in form satisfactory to the Registrar duly executed by such holder or by its attorney, duly authorized in writing.  In addition, the requesting holder shall provide any additional certifications, documents and information, as applicable, required pursuant to the following provisions of this Section 2.2(e).

 

Appendix A-8

 

(i)                                     Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes to Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes.  A Transfer Restricted Note may be transferred to and registered in the name of a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)                               if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(B)                               if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(C)                               if the transfer will be made pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note;

 

(D)                               if the transfer will be made to an IAI in reliance on an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act other than those listed in subparagraphs (A) through (D) above, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note; and

 

(E)                                if such transfer will be made to Holdings or a Subsidiary thereof, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Note.

 

(ii)                                  Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes.  Any Transfer Restricted Definitive Note may be exchanged by the holder thereof for an Unrestricted Definitive Note or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)                               if the holder of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note for an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note; or

 

(B)                               if the holder of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note proposes to transfer such Notes to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Note,

 

and, in each such case, if the Issuers or the Registrar so request, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers and the Registrar to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Restricted Notes Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

 

(iii)                               Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes.  A holder of an Unrestricted Definitive Note may transfer such Unrestricted Definitive Notes to a

 

Appendix A-9

 

Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note at any time.  Upon receipt of a request to register such a transfer, the Registrar shall register the Unrestricted Definitive Notes pursuant to the instructions from the holder thereof.

 

(iv)                              Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Transfer Restricted Definitive Notes.  An Unrestricted Definitive Note cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of, a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note.

 

At such time as all beneficial interests in a particular Global Note have been exchanged for Definitive Notes or a particular Global Note has been redeemed, repurchased or canceled in whole and not in part, each such Global Note shall be returned to or retained and canceled by the Trustee in accordance with Section 2.11.  At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Note is exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note or for Definitive Notes, the principal amount of Notes represented by such Global Note shall be reduced accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such reduction; and if the beneficial interest is being exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note, such other Global Note shall be increased accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such increase.

 

(f)                                   Legend.

 

(i)                                     Except as permitted by the following paragraph (iii), (iv) or (v), each Note certificate evidencing the Global Notes and any Definitive Notes (and all Notes issued in exchange therefor or in substitution thereof) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form (each defined term in the legend being defined as such for purposes of the legend only):

 

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION AND, ACCORDINGLY, MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES OR TO, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, U.S. PERSONS EXCEPT AS SET FORTH BELOW. BY ITS ACQUISITION HEREOF, THE HOLDER (1) REPRESENTS THAT (A) IT IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) OR (B) IT IS NOT A U.S. PERSON AND IS ACQUIRING THIS SECURITY IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (2) AGREES THAT IT WILL NOT WITHIN [IN THE CASE OF RULE 144A NOTES: ONE YEAR] [IN THE CASE OF REGULATION S NOTES: 40 DAYS] AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF AND THE

 

Appendix A-10

 

LAST DATE ON WHICH THE ISSUERS OR ANY AFFILIATE OF THE ISSUERS WAS THE OWNER OF THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY) RESELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER THIS SECURITY EXCEPT (A) TO THE ISSUERS OR ANY SUBSIDIARY THEREOF, (B) INSIDE THE UNITED STATES TO A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER IN COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 903 OR RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (D) PURSUANT TO THE EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION PROVIDED BY RULE 144 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT (IF AVAILABLE), (E) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANOTHER EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (AND BASED UPON AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IF THE ISSUERS SO REQUESTS), OR (F) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT AND (3) AGREES THAT IT WILL GIVE TO EACH PERSON TO WHOM THIS SECURITY IS TRANSFERRED A NOTICE SUBSTANTIALLY TO THE EFFECT OF THIS LEGEND. AS USED HEREIN, THE TERMS “OFFSHORE TRANSACTION,” “UNITED STATES” AND “U.S. PERSON” HAVE THE MEANING GIVEN TO THEM BY REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.”

 

Each Definitive Note shall bear the following additional legend:

 

“IN CONNECTION WITH ANY TRANSFER, THE HOLDER WILL DELIVER TO THE REGISTRAR AND TRANSFER AGENT SUCH CERTIFICATES AND OTHER INFORMATION AS SUCH TRANSFER AGENT MAY REASONABLY REQUIRE TO CONFIRM THAT THE TRANSFER COMPLIES WITH THE FOREGOING RESTRICTIONS.”

 

(ii)                                  Upon any sale or transfer of a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note, the Registrar shall permit the holder thereof to exchange such Transfer Restricted Note for a Definitive Note that does not bear the legends set forth above and rescind any restriction on the transfer of such Transfer Restricted Definitive Note if the holder certifies in writing to the Registrar that its request for such exchange was made in reliance on Rule 144 (such certification to be in the form set forth on the reverse of the Initial Note).

 

(iii)                               Upon a sale or transfer after the expiration of the Restricted Period of any Initial Note acquired pursuant to Regulation S, all requirements that such Initial Note bear the Restricted Notes Legend shall cease to apply and the requirements requiring any such Initial Note be issued in global form shall continue to apply.

 

Appendix A-11

 

(iv)                              After a transfer of any Initial Notes during the period of the effectiveness of a Shelf Registration Statement with respect to such Initial Notes, all requirements pertaining to the Restricted Notes Legend on any such Initial Note will cease to apply, the requirements requiring any such Initial Note issued to certain holders be issued in global form will continue to apply, and an Initial Note or an Initial Note in global form, in each case without restrictive transfer legends, will be available to the transferee of the holder of such Initial Notes upon exchange of such transferring holder’s certificated Initial Note or directions to transfer such holder’s interest in the Global Note, as applicable.

 

(v)                                 Upon the consummation of a Registered Exchange Offer with respect to the Initial Notes pursuant to which holders of such Initial Notes are offered Exchange Notes in exchange for their Initial Notes, all requirements pertaining to such Initial Notes that Initial Notes issued to certain holders be issued in global form will still apply with respect to holders of such Initial Notes that do not exchange their Initial Notes, and Exchange Notes in certificated or global form, in each case without the Restricted Notes Legend, will be available to holders that exchange such Initial Notes in such Registered Exchange Offer.

 

(vi)                              Any Additional Notes sold in a registered offering shall not be required to bear the Restricted Notes Legend.

 

(g)                                  Cancellation or Adjustment of Global Note.  At such time as all beneficial interests in a particular Global Note have been exchanged for Definitive Notes or a particular Global Note has been redeemed, repurchased or canceled in whole and not in part, each such Global Note shall be returned to or retained and canceled by the Trustee in accordance with Section 2.10 of this Indenture.  At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Note is exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note or for Definitive Notes, the principal amount of Notes represented by such Global Note shall be reduced accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such reduction; and if the beneficial interest is being exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note, such other Global Note shall be increased accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such increase.

 

(h)                                 Obligations with Respect to Transfers and Exchanges of Notes.

 

(i)                                     To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Issuers shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate, Definitive Notes and Global Notes at the Registrar’s request.

 

(ii)                                  No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange, but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any transfer tax, assessments, or similar governmental charge payable in connection therewith (other than any such transfer taxes, assessments or similar governmental charge payable upon exchanges pursuant to Sections 3.06, 4.06, 4.08 and 9.05 of this Indenture).

 

Appendix A-12

 

(iii)                               Prior to the due presentation for registration of transfer of any Note, the Issuers, the Trustee, a Paying Agent or the Registrar may deem and treat the person in whose name a Note is registered as the absolute owner of such Note for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest on such Note and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Note is overdue, and none of the Issuers, the Trustee, the Paying Agent or the Registrar shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

 

(iv)                              All Notes issued upon any transfer or exchange pursuant to the terms of this Indenture shall evidence the same debt and shall be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as the Notes surrendered upon such transfer or exchange.

 

(i)                                     No Obligation of the Trustee.

 

(i)                                     The Trustee shall have no responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner of a Global Note, a member of, or a participant in the Depository or any other Person with respect to the accuracy of the records of the Depository or its nominee or of any participant or member thereof, with respect to any ownership interest in the Notes or with respect to the delivery to any participant, member, beneficial owner or other Person (other than the Depository) of any notice (including any notice of redemption or repurchase) or the payment of any amount, under or with respect to such Notes.  All notices and communications to be given to the holders and all payments to be made to the holders under the Notes shall be given or made only to the registered holders (which shall be the Depository or its nominee in the case of a Global Note).  The rights of beneficial owners in any Global Note shall be exercised only through the Depository subject to the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository.  The Trustee may rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by the Depository with respect to its members, participants and any beneficial owners.

 

(ii)                                  The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Note (including any transfers between or among Depository participants, members or beneficial owners in any Global Note) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by, the terms of this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

 

Appendix A-13

 

EXHIBIT A

 

[FORM OF FACE OF INITIAL NOTE]

 

[Global Notes Legend]

 

UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION (“DTC”), NEW YORK, NEW YORK, TO THE COMPANY OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO., OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

 

TRANSFERS OF THIS GLOBAL NOTE SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS IN WHOLE, BUT NOT IN PART, TO DTC, TO NOMINEES OF DTC OR TO A SUCCESSOR THEREOF OR SUCH SUCCESSOR’S NOMINEE AND TRANSFERS OF PORTIONS OF THIS GLOBAL NOTE SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH IN THE INDENTURE REFERRED TO ON THE REVERSE HEREOF.

 

[Restricted Notes Legend for Notes Offered in Reliance on Regulation S]

 

BY ITS ACQUISITION HEREOF, THE HOLDER HEREOF REPRESENTS THAT IT IS NOT A U.S. PERSON, NOR IS IT PURCHASING FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A U.S. PERSON, AND IS ACQUIRING THIS SECURITY IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.

 

[Restricted Notes Legend]

 

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION AND, ACCORDINGLY, MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES OR TO, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, U.S. PERSONS EXCEPT AS SET FORTH BELOW. BY ITS ACQUISITION HEREOF, THE HOLDER (1) REPRESENTS THAT (A) IT IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) OR (B) IT IS NOT A U.S. PERSON AND IS ACQUIRING THIS SECURITY IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (2) AGREES THAT IT WILL NOT WITHIN [IN THE CASE OF RULE 144A NOTES: ONE YEAR] [IN THE CASE OF REGULATION S NOTES: 40 DAYS] AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF AND THE LAST DATE ON WHICH THE ISSUERS OR ANY AFFILIATE OF THE ISSUERS WAS THE OWNER OF THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY)

 

Exhibit A-1

 

RESELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER THIS SECURITY EXCEPT (A) TO THE ISSUERS OR ANY SUBSIDIARY THEREOF, (B) INSIDE THE UNITED STATES TO A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER IN COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 903 OR RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (D) PURSUANT TO THE EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION PROVIDED BY RULE 144 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT (IF AVAILABLE), (E) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANOTHER EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (AND BASED UPON AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IF THE ISSUERS SO REQUESTS), OR (F) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT AND (3) AGREES THAT IT WILL GIVE TO EACH PERSON TO WHOM THIS SECURITY IS TRANSFERRED A NOTICE SUBSTANTIALLY TO THE EFFECT OF THIS LEGEND. AS USED HEREIN, THE TERMS “OFFSHORE TRANSACTION,” “UNITED STATES” AND “U.S. PERSON” HAVE THE MEANING GIVEN TO THEM BY REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.”

 

[Definitive Notes Legend]

 

“IN CONNECTION WITH ANY TRANSFER, THE HOLDER WILL DELIVER TO THE REGISTRAR AND TRANSFER AGENT SUCH CERTIFICATES AND OTHER INFORMATION AS SUCH TRANSFER AGENT MAY REASONABLY REQUIRE TO CONFIRM THAT THE TRANSFER COMPLIES WITH THE FOREGOING RESTRICTIONS.”

 

A-2

 

[FORM OF INITIAL NOTE]

 

EP ENERGY LLC
 EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.

 

	
No. [     ]
    	
144A CUSIP No. 268787 AC2
    
	
 
    	
144A ISIN No. US268787 AC24
    
	
 
    	
REG S CUSIP No. U2937L AB0
    
	
 
    	
REG S ISIN No. USU2937LAB00
    
	
 
    	
$[     ]
    

 

6.375% Senior Note due 2023

 

EP ENERGY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC., a Delaware corporation, jointly and severally, promise to pay to Cede & Co., or registered assigns, the principal sum set forth on the Schedule of Increases or Decreases in Global Note attached hereto on June 15, 2023.

 

Interest Payment Dates:  June 15 and December 15, commencing December 15, 2015

 

Record Dates: June 1 and December 1

 

Additional provisions of this Note are set forth on the other side of this Note.

 

A-3

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this instrument to be duly executed.

 

	
 
    	
EP ENERGY LLC
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Dated: May 28, 2015
    	
 
    

 

A-4

 

TRUSTEE’S CERTIFICATE OF
 AUTHENTICATION

 

WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
 as Trustee, certifies that this is
 one of the Notes 
 referred to in the Indenture.

 

	
By:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Authorized   Signatory
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Dated:
    	
 
    

 

*/                                     If the Note is to be issued in global form, add the Global Notes Legend and the attachment from Exhibit A captioned “TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL NOTES - SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL NOTE.”

 

A-5

 

[FORM OF REVERSE SIDE OF INITIAL NOTE]

 

6.375% Senior Note Due 2023

 

1.                                      Interest

 

EP ENERGY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (such entity, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called “Holdings”), and EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC., a Delaware corporation (such entity, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called the “Co-Issuer” and, together with Holdings, the “Issuers”), jointly and severally, promise to pay interest on the principal amount of this Note at the rate per annum shown above; provided, however, that if a Registration Default (as defined in the Registration Rights Agreement) occurs, Additional Interest will accrue on this Note at a rate of 0.25% per annum (increasing by an additional 0.25% per annum after each consecutive 90-day period that occurs after the date on which such Registration Default occurs up to a maximum Additional Interest rate of 1.00%) from and including the date on which any such Registration Default shall occur to but excluding the earlier of (x) the date on which all Registration Defaults have been cured and (y) the date which is two years from the Issue Date.  The Issuers shall pay interest semiannually on June 15 and December 15 of each year (each an “Interest Payment Date”), commencing December 15, 2015.  Interest on the Notes shall accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for or, if no interest has been paid or duly provided for, from May 28, 2015, until the principal hereof is due.  Interest shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.  The Issuers shall pay interest on overdue principal at the rate borne by the Notes, and it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest at the same rate to the extent lawful.

 

2.                                      Method of Payment

 

The Issuers shall pay interest on the Notes (except defaulted interest) to the Persons who are registered holders at the close of business on June 1 or December 1 (each a “Record Date”) immediately preceding the Interest Payment Date even if Notes are canceled after the Record Date and on or before the Interest Payment Date (whether or not a Business Day).  Holders must surrender Notes to the Paying Agent to collect principal payments.  The Issuers shall pay principal, premium, if any, and interest in money of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.  Payments in respect of the Notes represented by a Global Note (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) or any successor depositary.  The Issuers shall make all payments in respect of a certificated Note (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) at the office of the Paying Agent, except that, at the option of the Issuers, payment of interest may be made by mailing a check to the registered address of each holder thereof; provided, however, that payments on the Notes may also be made, in the case of a holder of at least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Notes, by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or Paying Agent to such effect designating such

 

A-6

 

account no later than 30 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

 

3.                                      Paying Agent and Registrar

 

Initially, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee under the Indenture (the “Trustee”), will act as Paying Agent and Registrar.  The Issuers may appoint and change any Paying Agent or Registrar without notice.  The Issuers or any of their domestically incorporated Wholly Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.

 

4.                                      Indenture

 

The Issuers issued the Notes under an Indenture dated as of May 28, 2015 (the “Indenture”), among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee.  Capitalized terms used herein are used as defined in the Indenture, unless otherwise indicated.  The terms of the Notes include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in effect on the date of the Indenture (the “TIA”).  The Notes are subject to all terms and provisions of the Indenture, and the holders (as defined in the Indenture) are referred to the Indenture for a statement of such terms and provisions. If and to the extent that any provision of the Notes limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Indenture, such provision of the Indenture shall control.

 

The Notes are senior unsecured obligations of the Issuers.  This Note is one of the Initial Notes referred to in the Indenture.  The Notes include the Initial Notes and any Additional Notes.  The Initial Notes and any Additional Notes are treated as a single class of securities under the Indenture.  The Indenture imposes certain limitations on the ability of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries to, among other things, make certain Investments and other Restricted Payments, pay dividends and other distributions, Incur Indebtedness, enter into consensual restrictions upon the payment of certain dividends and distributions by such Restricted Subsidiaries, issue or sell shares of capital stock of Holdings and such Restricted Subsidiaries, enter into or permit certain transactions with Affiliates, create or Incur Liens and make Asset Sales.  The Indenture also imposes limitations on the ability of each Issuer and each Subsidiary Guarantor to consolidate or merge with or into any other Person or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of its property.

 

To guarantee the due and punctual payment of the principal and interest on the Notes and all other amounts payable by the Issuers under the Indenture and the Notes when and as the same shall be due and payable, whether at maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, according to the terms of the Notes and the Indenture, the Subsidiary Guarantors have unconditionally guaranteed the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations pursuant to the terms of the Indenture and any Subsidiary Guarantor that executes a Subsidiary Guarantee will unconditionally guarantee the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations, which such Subsidiary Guarantees shall be on a senior unsecured basis from the Issue Date, pursuant to the terms of the Indenture.

 

A-7

 

5.                                      Redemption

 

On or after June 15, 2018 the Issuers may redeem the Notes at their option, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice mailed by first-class mail to each holder’s registered address, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date), if redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on June 15 of the years set forth below:

 

	
Period
    	
 
    	
Redemption Price
    	
 
    
	
2018
    	
 
    	
104.781
    	
%
    
	
2019
    	
 
    	
103.188
    	
%
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
101.594
    	
%
    
	
2021 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
100.000
    	
%
    

 

In addition, prior to June 15, 2018, the Issuers may redeem the Notes at their option, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice mailed by the Issuers by first-class mail to each holder’s registered address, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date).

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time on or prior to June 15, 2018, the Issuers may redeem in the aggregate up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) in an aggregate amount equal to the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings (1) by Holdings or (2) by any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to the extent the net cash proceeds thereof are contributed to the common equity capital of Holdings or are used to purchase Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings, at a redemption price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount thereof) of 106.375%, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date); provided, however, that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) must remain outstanding after each such redemption; provided, further, that such redemption shall occur within 180 days after the date on which any such Equity Offering is consummated upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice mailed by the Issuer, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, to each holder of Notes being redeemed and otherwise in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Indenture. Notice of any redemption upon any Equity Offering may be given prior to the completion thereof, and any such redemption or notice may, at the Issuers’ discretion, be subject to one or more conditions precedent, including, but not limited to, completion of the related Equity Offering.

 

A-8

 

6.                                      Mandatory Redemption

 

The Issuers will not be required to make any mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Notes.

 

7.                                      Notice of Redemption

 

Notices of redemption will be mailed by first class mail at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the redemption date, to each holder of Notes to be redeemed at its registered address (with a copy to the Trustee) or otherwise in accordance with the procedures of DTC, except that redemption notices may be sent more than 60 days prior to the redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Article VIII thereof.  If money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and accrued and unpaid interest on all Notes (or portions thereof) to be redeemed on the redemption date is deposited with a Paying Agent on or before the redemption date and certain other conditions are satisfied, on and after such date, interest ceases to accrue on such Notes (or such portions thereof) called for redemption.

 

8.                                      Repurchase of Notes at the Option of the Holders upon Change of Control and Asset Sales

 

Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder shall have the right, subject to certain conditions specified in the Indenture, to cause the Issuers to repurchase all or any part of such holder’s Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of the holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date), as provided in, and subject to the terms of, the Indenture.

 

In accordance with Section 4.06 of the Indenture, the Issuers will be required to offer to purchase Notes upon the occurrence of certain events.

 

9.                                      [Intentionally Omitted]

 

10.                               Denominations; Transfer; Exchange

 

The Notes are in registered form, without coupons, in denominations of $2,000 principal amount and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.  A holder shall register the transfer of or exchange of the Notes in accordance with the Indenture.  Upon any registration of transfer or exchange, the Registrar and the Trustee may require a holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements or transfer documents and to pay any taxes required by law or permitted by the Indenture.  The Registrar need not register the transfer of or exchange any Notes selected for redemption (except, in the case of a Note to be redeemed in part, the portion of the Note not to be redeemed) or to transfer or exchange any Notes for a period of 15 days prior to a selection of Notes to be redeemed.

 

A-9

 

11.                               Persons Deemed Owners

 

The registered holder of this Note shall be treated as the owner of it for all purposes.

 

12.                               Unclaimed Money

 

If money for the payment of principal or interest remains unclaimed for two years, the Trustee and a Paying Agent shall pay the money back to the Issuers at their written request unless an abandoned property law designates another Person.  After any such payment, the holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuers for payment as general creditors and the Trustee and a Paying Agent shall have no further liability with respect to such monies.

 

13.                               Discharge and Defeasance

 

Subject to certain conditions, the Issuers at any time may terminate some of or all their obligations under the Notes and the Indenture if the Issuers deposit with the Trustee money or U.S. Government Obligations for the payment of principal and interest on the Notes to redemption or maturity, as the case may be.

 

14.                               Amendment; Waiver

 

Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, (i) the Indenture or the Notes may be amended with the written consent of the holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes and (ii) any past default or compliance with any provisions may be waived with the written consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes.  Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, without the consent of any holder, the Issuers and the Trustee may amend the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees (i) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency; (ii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor (with respect to an Issuer) of the obligations of an Issuer under the Indenture and the Notes; (iii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (with respect to any Subsidiary Guarantor), as the case may be, of the obligations of a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture and its Subsidiary Guarantee; (iv) to provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes, provided, however, that the uncertificated Notes are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code, or in a manner such that the uncertificated notes are described in Section 163(f)(2)(B) of the Code; (v) to conform the text of the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees to any provision of the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent that such provision of the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees was intended by the Issuers to be a verbatim recitation of a provision of the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum; (vi) to add a guarantee or obligor with respect to the Notes; (vii) to secure the Notes, (viii) to release a Subsidiary Guarantee as permitted by the Indenture; (ix) to add to the covenants of the Issuers for the benefit of the holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuers; (x) to comply with any requirement of the SEC in connection with qualifying or maintaining the qualification of the Indenture under the TIA; (xi) to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any

 

A-10

 

holder; or (xii) to make certain changes to the Indenture to provide for the issuance of Additional Notes.

 

15.                               Defaults and Remedies

 

If an Event of Default (other than a Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of Holdings) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee by notice to the Issuers or the holders of at least 30% in principal amount of outstanding Notes by notice to the Issuers, with a copy to the Trustee, may declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Notes to be due and payable. Upon such a declaration, such principal and interest will be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Issuers occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on all the Notes will become immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any holders. Under certain circumstances, the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding Notes may rescind any such acceleration with respect to the Notes and its consequences.

 

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers under the Indenture at the request or direction of any of the holders unless such holders have offered to the Trustee indemnity or security satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense and certain other conditions are complied with.  Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal, premium (if any) or interest when due, no holder may pursue any remedy with respect to the Indenture or the Notes unless (i) such holder has previously given the Trustee written notice that an Event of Default is continuing, (ii) holders of at least 30% in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have requested the Trustee to pursue the remedy, (iii) such holders have offered the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense, (iv) the Trustee has not complied with such request within 60 days after the receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity, and (v) the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have not given the Trustee a direction inconsistent with such request within such 60-day period. Subject to certain restrictions, the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding Notes are given the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee. The Trustee, however, may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or the Indenture or that the Trustee determines is unduly prejudicial to the rights of any other holder or that would involve the Trustee in personal liability. Prior to taking any action under the Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification reasonably satisfactory to it against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

 

16.                               Trustee Dealings with the Issuers

 

Subject to certain limitations imposed by the TIA, the Trustee under the Indenture, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Notes and may otherwise deal with and collect obligations owed to it by the Issuers or their Affiliates and may otherwise deal with the Issuers or their Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.

 

A-11

 

17.                               No Recourse Against Others

 

No director, officer, employee, manager, incorporator or holder of any Equity Interests in an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor or any direct or indirect parent companies, as such, will have any liability for any obligations of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor under the Notes, the Indenture or the Subsidiary Guarantees, as applicable, or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation.  Each holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability.

 

18.                               Authentication

 

This Note shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee (or an authenticating agent) manually signs the certificate of authentication on the other side of this Note.

 

19.                               Abbreviations

 

Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a holder or an assignee, such as TEN COM (=tenants in common), TEN ENT (=tenants by the entireties), JT TEN (=joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (=custodian), and U/G/M/A (=Uniform Gift to Minors Act).

 

20.                               Holders Compliance with Registration Rights Agreement

 

Each holder of a Note, by acceptance hereof, acknowledges and agrees to the provisions of the Registration Rights Agreement, including the obligations of the holders with respect to a registration and the indemnification of the Issuers to the extent provided therein.

 

21.                               Governing Law

 

THIS SECURITY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

 

22.                               CUSIP Numbers; ISINs

 

The Issuers have caused CUSIP numbers and ISINs to be printed on the Notes and have directed the Trustee to use CUSIP numbers and ISINs in notices of redemption as a convenience to the holders.  No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers either as printed on the Notes or as contained in any notice of redemption and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

 

The Issuers will furnish to any holder of Notes upon written request and without charge to the holder a copy of the Indenture which has in it the text of this Note.

 

A-12

 

ASSIGNMENT FORM

 

To assign this Note, fill in the form below:

 

I or we assign and transfer this Note to:

 

	
 
    
	
(Print or type assignee’s name,   address and zip code)
    
	
 
    
	
 
    
	
(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax   I.D. No.)
    

 

and irrevocably appoint                 agent to transfer this Note on the books of the Issuers.  The agent may substitute another to act for him.

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Your Signature:
    	
 
    
	
 
    
	
 
    
	
Sign exactly as your name appears on the   other side of this Note.
    	
 
    
						

 

Signature Guarantee:

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Signature must be guaranteed by a   participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other   signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee
    	
 
    	
Signature of Signature Guarantee
    

 

A-13

 

CERTIFICATE TO BE DELIVERED UPON EXCHANGE OR

 

REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER RESTRICTED NOTES

 

This certificate relates to $          principal amount of Notes held in (check applicable space)      book-entry or       definitive form by the undersigned.

 

The undersigned (check one box below):

 

o                                    has requested the Trustee by written order to deliver in exchange for its beneficial interest in the Global Note held by the Depository a Note or Notes in definitive, registered form of authorized denominations and an aggregate principal amount equal to its beneficial interest in such Global Note (or the portion thereof indicated above);

 

o                                    has requested the Trustee by written order to exchange or register the transfer of a Note or Notes.

 

In connection with any transfer of any of the Notes evidenced by this certificate occurring while this Note is still a Transfer Restricted Definitive Note or a Transfer Restricted Global Note, the undersigned confirms that such Notes are being transferred in accordance with its terms:

 

CHECK ONE BOX BELOW

 

	
(1)
    	
o
    	
to the Issuers; or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(2)
    	
o
    	
to the Registrar for registration in the   name of the holder, without transfer; or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(3)
    	
o
    	
pursuant to an effective registration   statement under the Securities Act of 1933; or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(4)
    	
o
    	
inside the United States to a “qualified   institutional buyer” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities   Act of 1933) that purchases for its own account or for the account of a   qualified institutional buyer to whom notice is given that such transfer is   being made in reliance on Rule 144A, in each case pursuant to and in   compliance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933; or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(5)
    	
o
    	
outside the United States in an offshore   transaction within the meaning of Regulation S under the Securities Act in   compliance with Rule 904 under the Securities Act of 1933 and such Note   shall be held immediately after the transfer through Euroclear or Clearstream   until the expiration of the Restricted Period (as defined in the Indenture);   or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(6)
    	
o
    	
to an institutional “accredited investor”   (as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the   Securities Act of 1933) that has furnished to the Trustee a signed letter   containing certain representations and agreements; or
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
(7)
    	
o
    	
pursuant to another available exemption from   registration provided by Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933.
    

 

A-14

 

Unless one of the boxes is checked, the Trustee will refuse to register any of the Notes evidenced by this certificate in the name of any Person other than the registered holder thereof; provided, however, that if box (5), (6) or (7) is checked, the Issuers or the Trustee may require, prior to registering any such transfer of the Notes, such legal opinions, certifications and other information as the Issuers or the Trustee have reasonably requested to confirm that such transfer is being made pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933.

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Your Signature:
    	
 
    
	
 
    
	
 
    
	
Sign exactly as your name appears on the   other side of this Note.
    	
 
    
						

 

Signature Guarantee:

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Signature must be guaranteed by a   participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other   signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee
    	
 
    	
Signature of Signature Guarantee
    

 

A-15

 

TO BE COMPLETED BY PURCHASER IF (4) ABOVE IS CHECKED.

 

The undersigned represents and warrants that it is purchasing this Note for its own account or an account with respect to which it exercises sole investment discretion and that it and any such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, and is aware that the sale to it is being made in reliance on Rule 144A and acknowledges that it has received such information regarding the Issuers as the undersigned has requested pursuant to Rule 144A or has determined not to request such information and that it is aware that the transferor is relying upon the undersigned’s foregoing representations in order to claim the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A.

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
NOTICE: To be executed by an executive   officer
    

 

A-16

 

[TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL NOTES]

 

SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL NOTE

 

The initial principal amount of this Global Note is $              .  The following increases or decreases in this Global Note have been made:

 

	
Date of Exchange
    	
 
    	
Amount of decrease in
   Principal Amount of this
   Global Note
    	
 
    	
Amount of increase in
   Principal Amount of this
   Global Note
    	
 
    	
Principal amount of this
   Global Note following
   such decrease or
   increase
    	
 
    	
Signature of authorized
   signatory of Trustee or
   Notes Custodian
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    

 

A-17

 

OPTION OF HOLDER TO ELECT PURCHASE

 

If you want to elect to have this Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, check the box:

 

	
Asset Saleo
    	
Change of Control o
    

 

If you want to elect to have only part of this Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, state the amount ($2,000 or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof):

 

$

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Your Signature:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
(Sign exactly as your name appears on the   other side of this Note)
    

 

	
Signature Guarantee:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Signature must be guaranteed by a   participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other   signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee
    	
 
    

 

A-18

 

EXHIBIT B

 

[FORM OF FACE OF EXCHANGE NOTE*/]

 

*/ If the Note is to be issued in global form add the Global Notes Legend from Exhibit A and the attachment from such Exhibit A captioned “[TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL NOTES] - SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL NOTE.”

 

B-1

 

[FORM OF EXCHANGE NOTE]

 

EP ENERGY LLC
 EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.

 

	
No. [     ]
    	
CUSIP No. 268787 AD0
    
	
 
    	
ISIN No. US268787AD07
    
	
 
    	
$[     ]
    

 

6.375% Senior Note due 2023

 

EP ENERGY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC., a Delaware corporation, jointly and severally, promise to pay to Cede & Co., or registered assigns, the principal sum set forth on the Schedule of Increases or Decreases in Global Note attached hereto on June 15, 2023.

 

Interest Payment Dates:  June 15 and December 15, commencing December 15, 2015

 

Record Dates:  June 1 and December 1

 

Additional provisions of this Note are set forth on the other side of this Note.

 

B-2

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this instrument to be duly executed.

 

	
 
    	
EP ENERGY LLC
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    

 

Dated:

 

B-3

 

	
TRUSTEE’S CERTIFICATE OF 

AUTHENTICATION
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
    	
 
    
	
as Trustee,   certifies that this is
    	
 
    
	
one of the Notes
    	
 
    
	
referred to in the   Indenture.
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
By:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Authorized Signatory
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Dated:
    	
 
    

 

B-4

 

[FORM OF REVERSE SIDE OF EXCHANGE NOTE]

 

6.375% Senior Note Due 2023

 

1.             Interest

 

EP ENERGY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (such entity, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called “Holdings”), and EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC., a Delaware corporation (such entity, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called the “Co-Issuer” and, together with Holdings, the “Issuers”), jointly and severally, promise to pay interest on the principal amount of this Note at the rate per annum shown above[; provided, however, that if a Registration Default (as defined in the Registration Rights Agreement) occurs, Additional Interest will accrue on this Note at a rate of 0.25% per annum (increasing by an additional 0.25% per annum after each consecutive 90-day period that occurs after the date on which such Registration Default occurs up to a maximum Additional Interest rate of 1.00%) from and including the date on which any such Registration Default shall occur to but excluding the earlier of (x) the date on which all Registration Defaults have been cured and (y) the date which is two years from the Issue Date](1).  The Issuers shall pay interest semiannually on June 15 and December 15 of each year (each an “Interest Payment Date”), commencing December 15, 2015.  Interest on the Notes shall accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for or, if no interest has been paid or duly provided for, from May 28, 2015, until the principal hereof is due.  Interest shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.  The Issuers shall pay interest on overdue principal at the rate borne by the Notes, and it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest at the same rate to the extent lawful.

 

2.             Method of Payment

 

The Issuers shall pay interest on the Notes (except defaulted interest) to the Persons who are registered holders at the close of business on June 1 or December 1 (each a “Record Date”) immediately preceding the Interest Payment Date even if Notes are canceled after the Record Date and on or before the Interest Payment Date (whether or not a Business Day).  Holders must surrender Notes to the Paying Agent to collect principal payments.  The Issuers shall pay principal, premium, if any, and interest in money of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.  Payments in respect of the Notes represented by a Global Note (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) or any successor depositary.  The Issuers shall make all payments in respect of a certificated Note (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) at the office of the Paying Agent, except that, at the option of the Issuers, payment of interest may be made by mailing a check to the registered address of each holder thereof; provided, however, that payments on the Notes may also be made, in the case of a holder of at

 

(1)         Insert if at the date of issuance of the Exchange Note any Registration Default has occurred with respect to the related Initial Notes during the interest period in which such date of issuance occurs.

 

B-5

 

least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Notes, by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or Paying Agent to such effect designating such account no later than 30 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

 

3.             Paying Agent and Registrar

 

Initially, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee under the Indenture (the “Trustee”), will act as Paying Agent and Registrar.  The Issuers may appoint and change any Paying Agent or Registrar without notice.  The Issuers or any of their domestically incorporated Wholly Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.

 

4.             Indenture

 

The Issuers issued the Notes under an Indenture dated as of May 28, 2015 (the “Indenture”), among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee.  Capitalized terms used herein are used as defined in the Indenture, unless otherwise indicated.  The terms of the Notes include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in effect on the date of the Indenture (the “TIA”).  The Notes are subject to all terms and provisions of the Indenture, and the holders (as defined in the Indenture) are referred to the Indenture for a statement of such terms and provisions. If and to the extent that any provision of the Notes limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Indenture, such provision of the Indenture shall control.

 

The Notes are senior unsecured obligations of the Issuers.  This Note is one of the Initial Notes referred to in the Indenture.  The Notes include the Initial Notes and any Additional Notes.  The Initial Notes and any Additional Notes are treated as a single class of securities under the Indenture.  The Indenture imposes certain limitations on the ability of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries to, among other things, make certain Investments and other Restricted Payments, pay dividends and other distributions, Incur Indebtedness, enter into consensual restrictions upon the payment of certain dividends and distributions by such Restricted Subsidiaries, issue or sell shares of capital stock of the Holdings and such Restricted Subsidiaries, enter into or permit certain transactions with Affiliates, create or Incur Liens and make Asset Sales.  The Indenture also imposes limitations on the ability of each Issuer and each Subsidiary Guarantor to consolidate or merge with or into any other Person or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of its property.

 

To guarantee the due and punctual payment of the principal and interest on the Notes and all other amounts payable by the Issuers under the Indenture and the Notes when and as the same shall be due and payable, whether at maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, according to the terms of the Notes and the Indenture, the Subsidiary Guarantors have unconditionally guaranteed the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations pursuant to the terms of the Indenture and any Subsidiary Guarantor that executes a Subsidiary Guarantee will unconditionally guarantee the Subsidiary Guaranteed Obligations, which such Subsidiary Guarantees shall be on a senior unsecured basis from the Issue Date, pursuant to the terms of the Indenture.

 

B-6

 

5.             Redemption

 

On or after June 15, 2018 the Issuers may redeem the Notes at their option, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice mailed by first-class mail to each holder’s registered address, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date), if redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on June 15 of the years set forth below:

 

	
Period
    	
 
    	
Redemption Price
    	
 
    
	
2018
    	
 
    	
104.781
    	
%
    
	
2019
    	
 
    	
103.188
    	
%
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
101.594
    	
%
    
	
2021 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
100.000
    	
%
    

 

In addition, prior to June 15, 2018, the Issuers may redeem the Notes at their option, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice mailed by the Issuers by first-class mail to each holder’s registered address, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date).

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time on or prior to June 15, 2018, the Issuers may redeem in the aggregate up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) in an aggregate amount equal to the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings (1) by Holdings or (2) by any direct or indirect parent of Holdings to the extent the net cash proceeds thereof are contributed to the common equity capital of Holdings or are used to purchase Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings, at a redemption price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount thereof) of 106.375%, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date); provided, however, that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) must remain outstanding after each such redemption; provided, further, that such redemption shall occur within 180 days after the date on which any such Equity Offering is consummated upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice mailed by the Issuer, or delivered electronically if held by DTC, to each holder of Notes being redeemed and otherwise in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Indenture. Notice of any redemption upon any Equity Offering may be given prior to the completion thereof, and any such redemption or notice may, at the Issuers’ discretion, be subject to one or more conditions precedent, including, but not limited to, completion of the related Equity Offering.

 

B-7

 

6.             Mandatory Redemption

 

The Issuers will not be required to make any mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Notes.

 

7.             Notice of Redemption

 

Notices of redemption will be mailed by first class mail at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the redemption date, to each holder of Notes to be redeemed at its registered address (with a copy to the Trustee) or otherwise in accordance with the procedures of DTC, except that redemption notices may be sent more than 60 days prior to the redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Article VIII thereof.  If money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and accrued and unpaid interest on all Notes (or portions thereof) to be redeemed on the redemption date is deposited with a Paying Agent on or before the redemption date and certain other conditions are satisfied, on and after such date, interest ceases to accrue on such Notes (or such portions thereof) called for redemption.

 

8.             Repurchase of Notes at the Option of the Holders upon Change of Control and Asset Sales

 

Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder shall have the right, subject to certain conditions specified in the Indenture, to cause the Issuers to repurchase all or any part of such holder’s Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of the holders of record on the relevant Record Date to receive interest due on the relevant Interest Payment Date), as provided in, and subject to the terms of, the Indenture.

 

In accordance with Section 4.06 of the Indenture, the Issuers will be required to offer to purchase Notes upon the occurrence of certain events.

 

9.             [Intentionally Omitted]

 

10.          Denominations; Transfer; Exchange

 

The Notes are in registered form, without coupons, in denominations of $2,000 principal amount and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.  A holder shall register the transfer of or exchange of the Notes in accordance with the Indenture.  Upon any registration of transfer or exchange, the Registrar and the Trustee may require a holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements or transfer documents and to pay any taxes required by law or permitted by the Indenture.  The Registrar need not register the transfer of or exchange any Notes selected for redemption (except, in the case of a Note to be redeemed in part, the portion of the Note not to be redeemed) or to transfer or exchange any Notes for a period of 15 days prior to a selection of Notes to be redeemed.

 

B-8

 

11.          Persons Deemed Owners

 

The registered holder of this Note shall be treated as the owner of it for all purposes.

 

12.          Unclaimed Money

 

If money for the payment of principal or interest remains unclaimed for two years, the Trustee and a Paying Agent shall pay the money back to the Issuers at their written request unless an abandoned property law designates another Person.  After any such payment, the holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuers for payment as general creditors and the Trustee and a Paying Agent shall have no further liability with respect to such monies.

 

13.          Discharge and Defeasance

 

Subject to certain conditions, the Issuers at any time may terminate some of or all their obligations under the Notes and the Indenture if the Issuers deposit with the Trustee money or U.S. Government Obligations for the payment of principal and interest on the Notes to redemption or maturity, as the case may be.

 

14.          Amendment; Waiver

 

Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, (i) the Indenture or the Notes may be amended with the written consent of the holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes and (ii) any past default or compliance with any provisions may be waived with the written consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes.  Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, without the consent of any holder, the Issuers and the Trustee may amend the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees (i) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency; (ii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor (with respect to an Issuer) of the obligations of an Issuer under the Indenture and the Notes; (iii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Subsidiary Guarantor (with respect to any Subsidiary Guarantor), as the case may be, of the obligations of a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture and its Subsidiary Guarantee; (iv) to provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes, provided, however, that the uncertificated Notes are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code, or in a manner such that the uncertificated notes are described in Section 163(f)(2)(B) of the Code; (v) to conform the text of the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees to any provision of the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent that such provision of the Indenture, the Notes or the Subsidiary Guarantees was intended by the Issuers to be a verbatim recitation of a provision of the “Description of Notes” in the Offering Memorandum; (vi) to add a guarantee or obligor with respect to the Notes; (vii) to secure the Notes; (viii) to release a Subsidiary Guarantee as permitted by the Indenture; (ix) to add to the covenants of the Issuers for the benefit of the holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuers; (x) to comply with any requirement of the SEC in connection with qualifying or maintaining the qualification of the Indenture under the TIA; (xi) to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any

 

B-9

 

holder; or (xii) to make certain changes to the Indenture to provide for the issuance of Additional Notes.

 

15.          Defaults and Remedies

 

If an Event of Default (other than a Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of Holdings) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee by notice to the Issuers or the holders of at least 30% in principal amount of outstanding Notes by notice to the Issuers, with a copy to the Trustee, may declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Notes to be due and payable. Upon such a declaration, such principal and interest will be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Issuers occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on all the Notes will become immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any holders. Under certain circumstances, the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding Notes may rescind any such acceleration with respect to the Notes and its consequences.

 

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers under the Indenture at the request or direction of any of the holders unless such holders have offered to the Trustee indemnity or security satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense and certain other conditions are complied with.  Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal, premium (if any) or interest when due, no holder may pursue any remedy with respect to the Indenture or the Notes unless (i) such holder has previously given the Trustee written notice that an Event of Default is continuing, (ii) holders of at least 30% in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have requested the Trustee to pursue the remedy, (iii) such holders have offered the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense, (iv) the Trustee has not complied with such request within 60 days after the receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity, and (v) the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have not given the Trustee a direction inconsistent with such request within such 60-day period. Subject to certain restrictions, the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding Notes are given the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee. The Trustee, however, may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or the Indenture or that the Trustee determines is unduly prejudicial to the rights of any other holder or that would involve the Trustee in personal liability. Prior to taking any action under the Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification reasonably satisfactory to it against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

 

16.          Trustee Dealings with the Issuers

 

Subject to certain limitations imposed by the TIA, the Trustee under the Indenture, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Notes and may otherwise deal with and collect obligations owed to it by the Issuers or their Affiliates and may otherwise deal with the Issuers or their Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.

 

B-10

 

17.          No Recourse Against Others

 

No director, officer, employee, manager, incorporator or holder of any Equity Interests in an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor or any direct or indirect parent companies, as such, will have any liability for any obligations of an Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor under the Notes, the Indenture or the Subsidiary Guarantees, as applicable, or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation.  Each holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability.

 

18.          Authentication

 

This Note shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee (or an authenticating agent) manually signs the certificate of authentication on the other side of this Note.

 

19.          Abbreviations

 

Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a holder or an assignee, such as TEN COM (=tenants in common), TEN ENT (=tenants by the entireties), JT TEN (=joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (=custodian), and U/G/M/A (=Uniform Gift to Minors Act).

 

20.          Governing Law

 

THIS SECURITY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

 

21.          CUSIP Numbers; ISINs

 

The Issuers have caused CUSIP numbers and ISINs to be printed on the Notes and have directed the Trustee to use CUSIP numbers and ISINs in notices of redemption as a convenience to the holders.  No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers either as printed on the Notes or as contained in any notice of redemption and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

 

The Issuers will furnish to any holder of Notes upon written request and without charge to the holder a copy of the Indenture which has in it the text of this Note.

 

B-11

 

ASSIGNMENT FORM

 

To assign this Note, fill in the form below:

 

I or we assign and transfer this Note to:

 

	
 
    
	
(Print or type assignee’s name,   address and zip code)
    
	
 
    
	
 
    
	
(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax   I.D. No.)
    

 

and irrevocably appoint                 agent to transfer this Note on the books of the Issuers.  The agent may substitute another to act for him.

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Your Signature:
    	
 
    
	
 
    
	
 
    
	
Sign exactly as your name appears on the   other side of this Note.
    	
 
    
						

 

Signature Guarantee:

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Signature must be guaranteed by a   participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other   signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee
    	
 
    	
Signature of Signature Guarantee
    

 

B-12

 

OPTION OF HOLDER TO ELECT PURCHASE

 

If you want to elect to have this Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, check the box:

 

	
Asset Saleo
    	
Change of Control o
    

 

If you want to elect to have only part of this Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, state the amount ($2,000 or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof):

 

$

 

	
Date:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Your Signature:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
(Sign exactly as your name appears on the   other side of this Note)
    

 

	
Signature Guarantee:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Signature must be guaranteed by a   participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other   signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee
    	
 
    

 

B-13

 

EXHIBIT C

 

[FORM OF TRANSFEREE LETTER OF REPRESENTATION]

 

TRANSFEREE LETTER OF REPRESENTATION

 

[EP ENERGY LLC]
 [EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.]
 c/o Wilmington Trust, National Association
 Corporate Client Services
 50 South Sixth Street, Suite 1290
 Minneapolis, MN  55402

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This certificate is delivered to request a transfer of $[      ] principal amount of the 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “Notes”) of [EP ENERGY LLC] and [EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.] (collectively with their successors and assigns, the “Issuers”).

 

Upon transfer, the Notes would be registered in the name of the new beneficial owner as follows:

 

	
Name:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Address:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Taxpayer ID Number:
    	
 
    	
 
    
					

 

The undersigned represents and warrants to you that:

 

1.             We are an institutional “accredited investor” (as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”)), purchasing for our own account or for the account of such an institutional “accredited investor” at least $100,000 principal amount of the Notes, and we are acquiring the Notes not with a view to, or for offer or sale in connection with, any distribution in violation of the Securities Act.  We have such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of our investment in the Notes, and we invest in or purchase securities similar to the Notes in the normal course of our business.  We, and any accounts for which we are acting, are each able to bear the economic risk of our or its investment.

 

2.             We understand that the Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act and, unless so registered, may not be sold except as permitted in the following sentence.  We agree on our own behalf and on behalf of any investor account for which we are purchasing Notes to offer, sell or otherwise transfer such Notes prior to the date that is two years after the later of the date of original issue and the last date on which either of the Issuers or any affiliate of such Issuers was the owner of such Notes (or any predecessor thereto) (the “Resale Restriction Termination Date”) only (a) in the United States to a person whom we reasonably believe is a qualified institutional buyer (as defined in rule 144A under the Securities Act) in a

 

C-1

 

transaction meeting the requirements of Rule 144A, (b) outside the United States in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 904 of Regulation S under the Securities Act, (c) pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act provided by Rule 144 thereunder (if applicable) or (d) pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, in each of cases (a) through (d) in accordance with any applicable securities laws of any state of the United States.  In addition, we will, and each subsequent holder is required to, notify any purchaser of the Note evidenced hereby of the resale restrictions set forth above.  The foregoing restrictions on resale will not apply subsequent to the Resale Restriction Termination Date.  If any resale or other transfer of the Notes is proposed to be made to an institutional “accredited investor” prior to the Resale Restriction Termination Date, the transferor shall deliver a letter from the transferee substantially in the form of this letter to the Issuers and the Trustee, which shall provide, among other things, that the transferee is an institutional “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act and that it is acquiring such Notes for investment purposes and not for distribution in violation of the Securities Act.  Each purchaser acknowledges that the Issuers and the Trustee reserve the right prior to the offer, sale or other transfer prior to the Resale Restriction Termination Date of the Notes pursuant to clause 1(b), 1(c) or 1(d) above to require the delivery of an opinion of counsel, certifications or other information satisfactory to the Issuers and the Trustee.

 

	
Dated:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
TRANSFEREE:                     ,
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    

 

C-2

 

EXHIBIT D

 

[FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE]

 

SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

 

SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of [DATE], among [SUBSIDIARY GUARANTOR] (the “New Subsidiary Guarantor”), a subsidiary of EP ENERGY LLC (or its successor), a Delaware limited liability company (“Holdings”), and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

 

W I T N E S S E T H :

 

WHEREAS Holdings, Everest Acquisition Finance Inc. (or its successor), a Delaware corporation (the “Co-Issuer” and, together with Holdings, the “Issuers”), certain Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee have heretofore executed an indenture, dated as of May 28, 2015 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”), providing for the issuance of the Issuers’ 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023 ( the “Notes”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $800,000,000;

 

WHEREAS Sections 4.11 and 12.07 of the Indenture provide that under certain circumstances Holdings is required to cause the New Subsidiary Guarantor to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Subsidiary Guarantor shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuers’ Obligations under the Notes and the Indenture pursuant to a Subsidiary Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

 

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Issuers are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

 

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Subsidiary Guarantor, the Issuers and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the holders of the Notes as follows:

 

1.             Defined Terms.  As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “holders” in this Supplemental Indenture shall refer to the term “holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such holders.  The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Section hereof.

 

2.             Agreement to Guarantee.  The New Subsidiary Guarantor hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Subsidiary Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuers’ Obligations under the Notes and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article XII of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable

 

D-1

 

provisions of the Indenture and the Notes and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture.

 

3.             Notices.  All notices or other communications to the New Subsidiary Guarantor shall be given as provided in Section 14.02 of the Indenture.

 

4.             Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture.  Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect.  This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every holder of Notes heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

 

5.             Governing Law.  THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

 

6.             Trustee Makes No Representation.  The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

 

7.             Counterparts.  The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture.  Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

 

8.             Effect of Headings.  The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]

 

D-2

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

 

	
 
    	
[EP ENERGY LLC]
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
[EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.]
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
[NEW SUBSIDIARY GUARANTOR]   , as a Guarantor
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: [     ]
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: [     ]
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, not in   its individual capacity, but solely as Trustee
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name: [     ]
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title: [     ]
    

 

D-3Exhibit 4.5

 

EP ENERGY LLC
  EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.

 

$800,000,000 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023

 

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

 

May 28, 2015

 

RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, LLC

 

As Representative of the several Initial Purchasers,

listed on Schedule A to the Purchase Agreement
  c/o RBC Capital Markets, LLC

Three World Financial Center

200 Vesey Street, 10th Floor

New York, New York 10281

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

EP Energy LLC, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Delaware (the “Company”) and Everest Acquisition Finance Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware (the “Co-issuer” and, together with the Company, the “Issuers”), propose to issue and sell to certain purchasers (the “Initial Purchasers”), for whom you (the “Representative”) are acting as representative, $800,000,000 aggregate principal amount of their 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “Senior Notes”), upon the terms set forth in the Purchase Agreement among the Representative, the Issuers and the guarantors signatories hereto (the “Guarantors”), dated May 19, 2015 (the “Purchase Agreement”), relating to the initial placement of the Senior Notes (the “Initial Placement”).  The Senior Notes will be jointly and severally guaranteed (the “Guarantees”) on a senior unsecured basis by the Guarantors.  References to the “Securities” shall mean, the Senior Notes, together with the Guarantees.

 

To induce the Initial Purchasers to enter into the Purchase Agreement and to satisfy a condition to your obligations thereunder, the Issuers and the Guarantors agree, for your benefit and the benefit of the holders from time to time of the Securities (including the Initial Purchasers) (each a “Holder” and, collectively, the “Holders”), as follows:

 

1.             Definitions.  Capitalized terms used herein without definition shall have their respective meanings set forth in the Purchase Agreement.  As used in this Agreement, the following capitalized defined terms shall have the following meanings:

 

 

“Additional Interest” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 8 hereof.

 

“Affiliate” shall have the meaning specified in Rule 405 under the Securities Act, and the terms “controlling” and “controlled” shall have meanings correlative thereto.

 

“broker-dealer” shall mean any broker or dealer registered as such under the Exchange Act.

 

“Business Day” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a legal holiday or a day on which banking institutions or trust companies are authorized or obligated by law to close in New York City.

 

“Co-issuer” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Commission” shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

“Company” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Event Date” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 8(b) hereof.

 

“Exchange Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.

 

“Exchange Offer Registration Period” shall mean the 180-day period following the consummation of the Registered Exchange Offer (or such shorter period during which Exchanging Dealers and any other person required to deliver a Prospectus are required by law to deliver such Prospectus), exclusive of any period during which any stop order shall be in effect suspending the effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement.

 

“Exchange Offer Registration Statement” shall mean a registration statement of the Issuers on an appropriate form under the Securities Act with respect to the Registered Exchange Offer, all amendments and supplements to such registration statement, including post-effective amendments thereto, in each case including the Prospectus contained therein, all exhibits thereto and all material incorporated by reference therein.

 

“Exchanging Dealer” shall mean any Holder (which may include any Initial Purchaser) that is a broker-dealer and elects to exchange for New Securities any Securities that it acquired for its own account as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities (but not directly from the Issuers or any Affiliate of the Issuers) for New Securities.

 

“Final Memorandum” shall mean the offering memorandum, dated May 19, 2015, relating to the offer and sale of the Senior Notes.

 

“FINRA Rules” shall mean the Conduct Rules and the By-Laws of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

 

“Guarantee” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

2

 

“Holder” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Indenture” shall mean the Indenture relating to the Securities, dated as of May 28, 2015 by and among the Issuers, the Guarantors and Wilmington Trust, National Association as trustee, as the same may be amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

“Initial Placement” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Initial Purchasers” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Inspector” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 4(q)(ii) hereof.

 

“Issuers” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Losses” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 6(d) hereof.

 

“Majority Holders” shall mean, on any date, Holders of a majority of the aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes registered under a Registration Statement.

 

“Managing Underwriters” shall mean the investment banker or investment bankers and manager or managers that administer an underwritten offering, if any, under a Registration Statement.

 

“New Securities” shall mean debt securities of the Issuers and Guarantees by the Guarantors, in each case, identical in all material respects to the Senior Notes and the related Guarantees (except that the transfer restrictions shall be modified or eliminated, as appropriate) to be issued under the Indenture in connection with sales or exchanges effected pursuant to this Agreement.

 

“Prospectus” shall mean the prospectus included in any Registration Statement (including, without limitation, a prospectus that discloses information previously omitted from a prospectus filed as part of an effective registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A under the Securities Act), as amended or supplemented by any prospectus supplement, with respect to the terms of the offering of any portion of the Securities or the New Securities covered by such Registration Statement, and all amendments and supplements thereto, including any and all exhibits thereto and any information incorporated by reference therein.

 

“Purchase Agreement” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Registered Exchange Offer” shall mean the proposed offer of the Issuers and the Guarantors to issue and deliver to the Holders of the Securities that are not prohibited by any law or policy of the Commission from participating in such offer, in exchange for the Securities, a like aggregate principal amount of the New Securities.

 

“Registration Default” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 8(a) hereof.

 

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“Registration Statement” shall mean any Exchange Offer Registration Statement or Shelf Registration Statement that covers any of the Securities or the New Securities pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, any amendments and supplements to such registration statement, including post-effective amendments (in each case including the Prospectus contained therein), all exhibits thereto and all material incorporated by reference therein.

 

“Securities” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.

 

“Senior Notes” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the preamble.

 

“Shelf Registration” shall mean a registration effected pursuant to Section 3 hereof.

 

“Shelf Registration Period” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3(b)(ii) hereof.

 

“Shelf Registration Statement” shall mean a “shelf” registration statement of the Issuers pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 hereof which covers some or all of the Securities or New Securities, as applicable, on an appropriate form under Rule 415 under the Securities Act, or any similar rule that may be adopted by the Commission, amendments and supplements to such registration statement, including post-effective amendments, in each case including the Prospectus contained therein, all exhibits thereto and all material incorporated by reference therein.

 

“Shelf Request” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3(a) hereof.

 

“Transfer Restricted Securities” shall mean (i) Securities other than those that have been registered under a Registration Statement and exchanged or disposed of in accordance therewith and (ii) any New Securities resale of which by the Holder thereof requires compliance with the prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act.

 

“Trustee” shall mean the trustee with respect to the Securities under the Indenture.

 

“underwriter” shall mean any underwriter of Securities in connection with an offering thereof under a Shelf Registration Statement.

 

2.             Registered Exchange Offer.  (a)  Unless the Registered Exchange Offer would violate applicable law or any applicable interpretation of the staff of the Commission, with respect to any Securities that are Transfer Restricted Securities, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to prepare, to cause to be filed with the Commission and to become effective, not later than 365 days from the date hereof, the Exchange Offer Registration Statement with respect to the Registered Exchange Offer.

 

(b)           If an Exchange Offer Registration Statement is filed and becomes effective pursuant to Section 2(a) above, upon the effectiveness of the Exchange Offer

 

4

 

Registration Statement, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall promptly commence the Registered Exchange Offer, it being the objective of such Registered Exchange Offer to enable each Holder electing to exchange Securities for New Securities (assuming that such Holder is not an Affiliate of the Issuers or the Guarantors, acquires the New Securities in the ordinary course of such Holder’s business, has no arrangements with any person to participate in the distribution of the New Securities and is not prohibited by any law or policy of the Commission from participating in the Registered Exchange Offer) to trade such New Securities from and after their receipt without any limitations or restrictions under the Securities Act and without material restrictions under the securities laws of a substantial proportion of the several states of the United States.  The Issuers and the Guarantors shall complete the Registered Exchange Offer as soon as practicable after the Exchange Offer Registration Statement becomes effective.

 

(c)           In connection with the Registered Exchange Offer, if an Exchange Offer Registration Statement is required to be filed and becomes effective pursuant to Section 2(a) above, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall:

 

(i)      mail or cause to be mailed to each Holder a copy of the Prospectus forming part of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement, together with an appropriate letter of transmittal and related documents;

 

(ii)     keep the Registered Exchange Offer open for not less than 20 Business Days after the date notice thereof is mailed to the Holders (or, in each case, longer if required by applicable law);

 

(iii)    use their commercially reasonable efforts to keep the Exchange Offer Registration Statement continuously effective under the Securities Act, supplemented and amended as required, to ensure that it is available for sales of New Securities by Exchanging Dealers during the Exchange Offer Registration Period;

 

(iv)    utilize the services of a depositary for the Registered Exchange Offer with an address in the Borough of Manhattan in New York City, which may be the Trustee or an Affiliate of the Trustee;

 

(v)     permit Holders to withdraw tendered Securities at any time prior to the close of business, New York time, on the last Business Day on which the Registered Exchange Offer is open;

 

(vi)    prior to effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement, provide a supplemental letter to the Commission (A) stating that the Issuers and the Guarantors are conducting the Registered Exchange Offer in reliance on the position of the Commission in Exxon Capital Holdings Corporation (pub. avail. May 13, 1988), Morgan Stanley and Co., Inc. (pub. avail. June 5, 1991); and (B) including a representation that the Issuers and the Guarantors have not entered into any arrangement or understanding with any person to distribute the New Securities to be received in the Registered Exchange Offer and that, to the best knowledge of the Issuers and the Guarantors, each Holder participating in the Registered Exchange Offer is acquiring the

 

5

 

New Securities in the ordinary course of business and has no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in the distribution of the New Securities; and

 

(vii)         comply in all respects with all applicable laws.

 

(d)           As soon as practicable after the close of the Registered Exchange Offer, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall:

 

(i)            accept for exchange all Securities tendered and not validly withdrawn pursuant to the Registered Exchange Offer;

 

(ii)           deliver to the Trustee for cancellation in accordance with Section 4(s) all Securities so accepted for exchange; and

 

(iii)          cause the Trustee promptly to authenticate and deliver to each Holder of Securities a principal amount of New Securities equal to the principal amount of the Securities of such Holder so accepted for exchange.

 

(e)           Each Holder hereby acknowledges and agrees that any broker-dealer and any such Holder using the Registered Exchange Offer to participate in a distribution of the New Securities (x) could not under Commission policy as in effect on the date of this Agreement rely on the position of the Commission in Exxon Capital Holdings Corporation (pub. avail. May 13, 1988) and Morgan Stanley and Co., Inc. (pub. avail. June 5, 1991), as interpreted in the Commission’s letter to Shearman & Sterling dated July 2, 1993 and similar no-action letters; and (y) must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any secondary resale transaction, which must be covered by an effective registration statement containing the selling security holder information required by Item 507 or 508, as applicable, of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act if the resales are of New Securities obtained by such Holder in exchange for Securities acquired by such Holder directly from the Issuers, the Guarantors or their respective Affiliates.  Accordingly, each Holder participating in the Registered Exchange Offer shall be required to represent to the Issuers and the Guarantors that, at the time of the consummation of the Registered Exchange Offer:

 

(i)            any New Securities to be received by such Holder will be acquired in the ordinary course of business;

 

(ii)           such Holder will have no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in the distribution of the Securities or the New Securities within the meaning of the Securities Act; and

 

(iii)          such Holder is not an Affiliate of the Issuers or the Guarantors.

 

(f)            If any Initial Purchaser determines that it is not eligible to participate in the Registered Exchange Offer with respect to the exchange of Securities constituting any portion of an unsold allotment, at the request of such Initial Purchaser, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall issue and deliver to such Initial Purchaser or the person purchasing New

 

6

 

Securities registered under a Shelf Registration Statement as contemplated by Section 3 hereof from such Initial Purchaser, in exchange for such Securities, a like principal amount of New Securities.  The Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to cause the CUSIP Service Bureau to issue the same CUSIP number for such New Securities as for New Securities issued pursuant to the Registered Exchange Offer.

 

3.             Shelf Registration.  (a)  If (i) due to any change in law or applicable interpretations thereof by the Commission’s staff, the Issuers and the Guarantors determine upon advice of their outside counsel that they are not permitted to effect the Registered Exchange Offer as contemplated by Section 2 hereof; (ii) for any other reason the Registered Exchange Offer is not completed within 365 days following the date hereof; (iii) any Initial Purchaser so requests (a “Shelf Request”), on or before the 60th day following consummation of the Registered Exchange Offer, with respect to Securities that are not eligible to be exchanged for New Securities in the Registered Exchange Offer and that are held by it following consummation of the Registered Exchange Offer; or (iv) any Holder is not eligible to participate in the Registered Exchange Offer or may not resell the New Securities acquired by them in the Registered Exchange Offer to the public without delivering a Prospectus, and such Holder so requests on or before the 60th day following the consummation of the Registered Exchange Offer, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall effect a Shelf Registration Statement in accordance with subsection (b) below.

 

(b)           If a Shelf Registration Statement is required to be filed and becomes effective pursuant to Section 3(a), (i) (x), in the case of Section 3(a)(i), the Issuers and the Guarantors shall, as promptly as practicable, file the Shelf Registration Statement with the Commission, and shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Shelf Registration Statement to become effective under the Securities Act within 365 days after the date hereof and (y), in the case of Section 3(a)(ii), (iii) or (iv), the Issuers and the Guarantors shall, as promptly as practicable, file the Shelf Registration Statement with the Commission, and shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Shelf Registration Statement to become effective under the Securities Act on or prior to the 485th day following the date hereof; provided, however, that no Holder (other than an Initial Purchaser) shall be entitled to have the Securities held by it covered by such Shelf Registration Statement unless such Holder agrees in writing to be bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement applicable to such Holder; and provided further, that with respect to New Securities received by an Initial Purchaser in exchange for Securities constituting any portion of an unsold allotment, the Issuers and the Guarantors may, if permitted by current interpretations by the Commission’s staff, file a post-effective amendment to the Exchange Offer Registration Statement containing the information required by Item 507 or 508 of Regulation S-K, as applicable, in satisfaction of their obligations under this subsection with respect thereto, and any such Exchange Offer Registration Statement, as so amended, shall be referred to herein as, and governed by the provisions herein applicable to, a Shelf Registration Statement.

 

(ii)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall keep the Shelf Registration Statement continuously effective, supplemented and amended as required by the Securities Act, in order to permit the Prospectus forming part thereof to be usable by Holders for a period (the “Shelf Registration Period”) from the date the Shelf Registration Statement becomes effective until the earlier of (A) the date upon which the Securities cease to be Transfer

 

7

 

Restricted Securities (B) the date which is two years from the date hereof or (C) the date upon which all the Securities or New Securities, as applicable, covered by the Shelf Registration Statement have been sold pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement.

 

(iii)          The Issuers and the Guarantors shall cause the Shelf Registration Statement and the related Prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto, as of the effective date of the Shelf Registration Statement or such amendment or supplement, (A) to comply in all material respects with the applicable requirements of the Securities Act; and (B) not to contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein (in the case of the Prospectus, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading.

 

4.             Additional Registration Procedures.  In connection with any Shelf Registration Statement and, to the extent applicable, any Exchange Offer Registration Statement, the following provisions shall apply.

 

(a)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall:

 

(i)            furnish to each of the Initial Purchasers and to counsel for the Holders, not less than five Business Days prior to the filing thereof with the Commission, a copy of any Exchange Offer Registration Statement and any Shelf Registration Statement, and each amendment thereof and each amendment or supplement, if any, to the Prospectus included therein (including all documents incorporated by reference therein after the initial filing) and shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to reflect in each such document, when so filed with the Commission, such comments as the Initial Purchasers reasonably propose;

 

(ii)           include the information set forth in Annex A hereto on the facing page of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement, in Annex B hereto in the forepart of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement in a section setting forth details of the Exchange Offer, in Annex C hereto in the underwriting or plan of distribution section of the Prospectus contained in the Exchange Offer Registration Statement, and in Annex D hereto in the letter of transmittal delivered pursuant to the Registered Exchange Offer;

 

(iii)          if requested by an Initial Purchaser, include the information required by Item 507 or 508 of Regulation S-K, as applicable, in the Prospectus contained in the Exchange Offer Registration Statement; and

 

(iv)          in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, include the names of the Holders that propose to sell Securities pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement as selling security holders.

 

(b)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to ensure that:

 

(i)            any Registration Statement and any amendment thereto and any Prospectus forming part thereof and any amendment or supplement thereto complies in all material respects with the Securities Act; and

 

8

 

(ii)           any Registration Statement and any amendment thereto does not, when it becomes effective, contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

 

(c)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall advise counsel for the Initial Purchasers, the Holders of Securities covered by any Shelf Registration Statement and any Exchanging Dealer under any Exchange Offer Registration Statement that has provided in writing to the Issuers and the Guarantors a telephone or facsimile number and address for notices, and, if requested by any Initial Purchaser or any such Holder or Exchanging Dealer, shall confirm such advice in writing (which notice pursuant to clauses (ii)-(v) hereof shall be accompanied by an instruction to suspend the use of the Prospectus until the Issuers and the Guarantors shall have remedied the basis for such suspension):

 

(i)            when a Registration Statement and any amendment thereto has been filed with the Commission and when the Registration Statement or any post-effective amendment thereto has become effective;

 

(ii)           of any request by the Commission after the effective date for any amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or for additional information;

 

(iii)          of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or the institution of any proceeding for that purpose;

 

(iv)          of the receipt by the Issuers or the Guarantors of any notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of the securities included therein for sale in any jurisdiction or the institution of any proceeding for such purpose; and

 

(v)           of the happening of any event that requires any change in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus so that, as of such date, they (A) do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact and (B) do not omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein (in the case of the Prospectus, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading.

 

(d)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the withdrawal of any order suspending the effectiveness of any Registration Statement or the qualification of the securities therein for sale in any jurisdiction.

 

(e)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall furnish to each Holder of Securities covered by any Shelf Registration Statement, without charge, at least one copy of such Shelf Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto, including all material incorporated therein by reference, and, if the Holder so requests in writing, all exhibits thereto (including exhibits incorporated by reference therein).

 

(f)            The Issuers and the Guarantors shall, during the Shelf Registration Period, deliver to each Holder of Securities covered by any Shelf Registration Statement,

 

9

 

without charge, as many copies of the Prospectus (including the preliminary prospectus) included in such Shelf Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement thereto as such Holder may reasonably request.  The Issuers and the Guarantors consent to the use of the Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto by each of the selling Holders of Securities in connection with the offering and sale of the Securities covered by the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, included in the Shelf Registration Statement.

 

(g)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall furnish to each Exchanging Dealer which so requests, without charge, at least one (1) conformed copy of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto, including all material incorporated by reference therein, and, if the Exchanging Dealer so requests in writing, all exhibits thereto (including exhibits incorporated by reference therein).

 

(h)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall promptly deliver to each Initial Purchaser, each Exchanging Dealer and each other person required to deliver a Prospectus during the Exchange Offer Registration Period, without charge, as many copies of the Prospectus included in such Exchange Offer Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement thereto as any such person may reasonably request.  The Issuers and the Guarantors consent to the use of the Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto by any Initial Purchaser, any Exchanging Dealer and any such other person that may be required to deliver a Prospectus following the Registered Exchange Offer in connection with the offering and sale of the New Securities covered by the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, included in the Exchange Offer Registration Statement.

 

(i)            Prior to the Registered Exchange Offer or any other offering of Securities pursuant to any Registration Statement, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall arrange, if necessary, for the qualification of the Securities or the New Securities for sale under the laws of such jurisdictions as any Holder shall reasonably request and shall maintain such qualification in effect so long as required; provided that in no event shall the Issuers and the Guarantors be obligated (A) to qualify to do business in any jurisdiction where they are not then so qualified or to take any action that would subject them to service of process in suits, other than those arising out of the Initial Placement, the Registered Exchange Offer or any offering pursuant to a Shelf Registration Statement, in any such jurisdiction where they are not then so subject or (B) to subject itself to taxation in excess of a nominal amount in respect of doing business in such jurisdiction.

 

(j)            The Issuers shall cooperate with the Holders of Securities to facilitate the timely preparation and delivery of certificates representing New Securities or Securities to be issued or sold pursuant to any Registration Statement free of any restrictive legends and in such denominations and registered in such names as Holders may request in writing at least three (3) Business Days prior to the closing date of any sales of New Securities.

 

(k)

 

(i)            Upon the occurrence of any event contemplated by subsections (c)(ii) through (v) above, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall promptly (or within the time period provided for by clause (ii) hereof, if applicable) prepare a post-effective amendment to

 

10

 

the applicable Registration Statement or an amendment or supplement to the related Prospectus or file any other required document so that, as thereafter delivered to Holders of the securities included therein, the Prospectus will not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.  In such circumstances, the period of effectiveness of the Exchange Offer Registration Statement provided for in Section 2 shall be extended by the number of days from and including the date of the giving of a notice of suspension pursuant to Section 4(c) to and including the date when the Initial Purchasers, the Holders of the Securities and any known Exchanging Dealer shall have received such amended or supplemented Prospectus pursuant to this Section.

 

(ii)           Upon the occurrence or existence of any pending corporate development or any other material event that, in the reasonable and good faith judgment of the Issuers and the Guarantors, makes it appropriate to suspend the availability of a Shelf Registration Statement and the related Prospectus, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall give notice (without notice of the nature or details of such events) to the Holders that the availability of the Shelf Registration is suspended and, upon actual receipt of any such notice, each Holder agrees not to sell any Transfer Restricted Securities pursuant to the Shelf Registration until such Holder’s receipt of copies of the supplemented or amended Prospectus provided for in Section 4(k) hereof, or until it is advised in writing by the Issuers and the Guarantors that the Prospectus may be used, and has received copies of any additional or supplemental filings that are incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference in such Prospectus.  The period during which the availability of the Shelf Registration and any Prospectus is suspended (the “Deferral Period”) (A) shall not exceed 60 consecutive days, (B) shall not occur more than three (3) times during any calendar year and (C) shall extend the number of days the Shelf Registration or any Prospectus is available by an amount equal to the Deferral Period.

 

(l)            Not later than the effective date of any Registration Statement, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall provide a CUSIP number for the Securities or the New Securities, as the case may be, registered under such Registration Statement and provide the Trustee with printed certificates for such Securities or New Securities, in a form eligible for deposit with The Depository Trust Company.

 

(m)          The Issuers and the Guarantors shall comply in all material respects with all applicable rules and regulations of the Commission and shall make generally available to their security holders an earnings statement satisfying the provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act as soon as practicable after the effective date of the applicable Registration Statement and in any event no later than 45 days after the end of a 12-month period (or 90 days, if such period is a fiscal year) beginning with the first month of the Issuers’ first fiscal quarter commencing after the effective date of the applicable Registration Statement.

 

(n)           [Reserved].

 

(o)           The Issuers and the Guarantors may require each Holder of securities to be sold pursuant to any Shelf Registration Statement to furnish to the Issuers and the

 

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Guarantors such information regarding the Holder and the distribution of such securities as the Issuers and the Guarantors may from time to time reasonably require for inclusion in such Registration Statement.  The Issuers and the Guarantors may exclude from such Shelf Registration Statement the Securities of any Holder that fails to furnish such information within a reasonable time after receiving such request.

 

(p)           In the case of any Shelf Registration Statement, upon the request of the Majority Holders, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall enter into customary agreements (including, if requested, an underwriting agreement in customary form) and take all other appropriate actions, if any, as the Majority Holders shall reasonably request in order to expedite or facilitate the registration or the disposition of the Securities, and in connection therewith, if an underwriting agreement is entered into, cause the same to contain indemnification provisions and procedures no less favorable than those set forth in Section 6 hereof.

 

(q)           In the case of any Shelf Registration Statement, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall:

 

(i)            make reasonably available for inspection at a location where they are normally kept and during normal business hours by the Majority Holders of Securities to be registered thereunder, any underwriter participating in any disposition pursuant to such Registration Statement, and any attorney, accountant or other agent retained by the Holders or any such underwriter all relevant financial and other records and pertinent corporate documents of the Issuers and their respective subsidiaries;

 

(ii)           use their commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Company’s respective officers, directors, employees, accountants and auditors to supply all relevant information reasonably requested by the Holders or any such underwriter, attorney, accountant or agent (each, an “Inspector”) in connection with any such Registration Statement as is customary for similar due diligence examinations; provided, however, that such Inspector shall first agree in writing with the Issuers and the Guarantors that any information that is reasonably and in good faith designated by the Issuers and the Guarantors in writing as confidential at the time of delivery of such information shall be kept confidential by such Inspector, unless (1) disclosure of such information is required by court or administrative order or is necessary to respond to inquiries of regulatory authorities, (2) disclosure of such information is required by law (including any disclosure requirements pursuant to federal securities laws in connection with the filing of such Registration Statement or the use of any Prospectus), (3) such information becomes generally available to the public other than as a result of a disclosure or failure to safeguard such information by such person or (4) such information becomes available to such Inspector from a source other than the Issuers or the Guarantors and such source is not known, after due inquiry, by the relevant Holder to be bound by a confidentiality agreement or is not otherwise under a duty of trust to the Issuers or the Guarantors;

 

(iii)          make such representations and warranties to the Holders of Securities registered thereunder and the underwriters, if any, in form, substance and scope as are

 

12

 

customarily made by issuers to underwriters in primary underwritten offerings and covering matters including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Purchase Agreement;

 

(iv)          obtain opinions of counsel to the Issuers and updates thereof (which counsel and opinions (in form, scope and substance) shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Managing Underwriters, if any) addressed to each selling Holder and the underwriters, if any, covering such matters as are customarily covered in opinions requested in underwritten offerings and such other matters as may be reasonably requested by such Holders and underwriters;

 

(v)           obtain “comfort” letters and updates thereof from the independent certified public accountants of the Issuers (and, if necessary, any other independent certified public accountants of any subsidiary of the Issuers or of any business acquired by the Issuers or any Guarantor for which financial statements and financial data are, or are required to be, included in the Registration Statement), addressed to each selling Holder of Securities registered thereunder and the underwriters, if any, in customary form and covering matters of the type customarily covered in “comfort” letters in connection with primary underwritten offerings; and

 

(vi)          deliver such documents and certificates as may be reasonably requested by the Majority Holders or the Managing Underwriters, if any, including those to evidence compliance with Section 4(k) and with any customary conditions contained in the underwriting agreement or other agreement entered into by the Issuers.

 

The actions set forth in clauses (iii), (iv), (v) and (vi) of this paragraph (q) shall be performed at (A) the effectiveness of such Registration Statement and each post-effective amendment thereto; and (B) each closing under any underwriting or similar agreement as and to the extent required thereunder.

 

(r)            If a Registered Exchange Offer is to be consummated, upon delivery of the Securities by Holders to the Issuers (or to such other person as directed by the Issuers) in exchange for the New Securities, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall mark, or caused to be marked, on the Securities so exchanged that such Securities are being cancelled in exchange for the New Securities.  In no event shall the Securities be marked as paid or otherwise satisfied.

 

(s)            The Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts if the Securities have been rated prior to the initial sale of such Securities, to confirm such ratings will apply to the Securities or the New Securities, as the case may be, covered by a Registration Statement.

 

(t)            In the event that any broker-dealer shall underwrite any Securities or participate as a member of an underwriting syndicate or selling group or “assist in the distribution” (within the meaning of FINRA Rules) thereof, whether as a Holder of such Securities or as an underwriter, a placement or sales agent or a broker or dealer in respect thereof, or otherwise, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall assist such broker-dealer in complying with the FINRA Rules.

 

13

 

(u)           The Issuers and the Guarantors shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to take all other steps necessary to effect the registration of the Securities or the New Securities, as the case may be, covered by a Registration Statement.

 

5.             Registration Expenses.  The Issuers and the Guarantors shall bear all expenses incurred in connection with the performance of their obligations under Sections 2, 3 and 4 hereof and, in the event of any Shelf Registration Statement, will reimburse the Holders for the reasonable fees and disbursements of one firm or counsel (which shall initially be Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP, but which may be another nationally recognized law firm experienced in securities matters designated by the Majority Holders) to act as counsel for the Holders in connection therewith, and, in the case of any Exchange Offer Registration Statement, will reimburse the Initial Purchasers for the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel acting in connection therewith in each case which counsel shall be approved by the Issuers (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld).  Each Holder shall pay all expenses of its counsel other than as set forth in the preceding sentence, underwriting discounts and commissions and transfer taxes, if any, relating to the sale or disposition of such Holder’s Securities or New Securities.

 

6.             Indemnification and Contribution.  (a)  The Issuers and the Guarantors agree, jointly and severally, to indemnify and hold harmless each Holder of Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, covered by any Registration Statement, each Initial Purchaser and, with respect to any Prospectus delivery as contemplated in Section 4(h) hereof, each Exchanging Dealer, the directors, officers, employees, Affiliates and agents of each such Holder, Initial Purchaser or Exchanging Dealer and each person who controls any such Holder, Initial Purchaser or Exchanging Dealer within the meaning of either the Securities Act or the Exchange Act against any and all losses, claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which they or any of them may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or other federal or state statutory law or regulation, at common law or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement as originally filed or in any amendment thereof, or in any preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus, or in any amendment thereof or supplement thereto, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein (in the case of any preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading, and agree to reimburse each such indemnified party, as incurred, for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by it in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action; provided, however, that the Issuers and the Guarantors will not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based upon any such untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made therein in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Issuers and the Guarantors by or on behalf of the party claiming indemnification specifically for inclusion therein.  This indemnity agreement shall be in addition to any liability that the Issuers and the Guarantors may otherwise have.

 

The Issuers and the Guarantors also agree to indemnify as provided in this Section 6(a) or contribute as provided in Section 6(d) hereof to Losses of each underwriter, if any, of Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, registered under a Shelf Registration Statement, their

 

14

 

directors, officers, employees, Affiliates or agents and each person who controls such underwriter on substantially the same basis as that of the indemnification of the Initial Purchasers and the selling Holders provided in this Section 6(a) and shall, if requested by any Holder, enter into an underwriting agreement reflecting such agreement, as provided in Section 4(p) hereof.

 

(b)           Each Holder of securities covered by a Registration Statement (including each Initial Purchaser that is a Holder, in such capacity) severally and not jointly agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Issuers and the Guarantors, each of their respective directors and officers who sign such Registration Statement and each person who controls the Issuers or any Guarantor within the meaning of either the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, to the same extent as the foregoing indemnity from the Issuers and the Guarantors to each such Holder, but only with reference to written information relating to such Holder furnished to the Issuers and the Guarantors by or on behalf of such Holder specifically for inclusion in the documents referred to in the foregoing indemnity.  This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability that any such Holder may otherwise have.

 

(c)           Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Section 6 or notice of the commencement of any action, such indemnified party will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against the indemnifying party under this Section, notify the indemnifying party in writing of the commencement thereof; but the failure so to notify the indemnifying party (i) will not relieve it from liability under paragraph (a) or (b) above unless and to the extent it did not otherwise learn of such action and such failure results in the forfeiture by the indemnifying party of substantial rights and defenses; and (ii) will not, in any event, relieve the indemnifying party from any obligations to any indemnified party other than the indemnification obligation provided in paragraph (a) or (b) above.  The indemnifying party shall be entitled to appoint counsel (including local counsel) of the indemnifying party’s choice at the indemnifying party’s expense to represent the indemnified party in any action for which indemnification is sought (in which case the indemnifying party shall not thereafter be responsible for the fees and expenses of any separate counsel, other than local counsel if not appointed by the indemnifying party, retained by the indemnified party or parties except as set forth below); provided, however, that such counsel shall be satisfactory to the indemnified party.  Notwithstanding the indemnifying party’s election to appoint counsel (including local counsel) to represent the indemnified party in an action, the indemnified party shall have the right to employ separate counsel (including local counsel), and the indemnifying party shall bear the reasonable fees, costs and expenses of such separate counsel if (i) the use of counsel chosen by the indemnifying party to represent the indemnified party would present such counsel with a conflict of interest (based on the advice of counsel to the indemnified person); (ii) the actual or potential defendants in, or targets of, any such action include both the indemnified party and the indemnifying party and the indemnified party shall have reasonably concluded (based on the advice of counsel to the indemnified person) that there may be legal defenses available to it and/or other indemnified parties that are different from or additional to those available to the indemnifying party; (iii) the indemnifying party shall not have employed counsel reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party to represent the indemnified party within a reasonable time after notice of the institution of such action; or (iv) the indemnifying party shall authorize the indemnified party to employ separate counsel at the expense of the indemnifying party.  An indemnifying party will not, without the prior written consent of the indemnified parties, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect

 

15

 

to any pending or threatened claim, action, suit or proceeding in respect of which indemnification or contribution may be sought hereunder (whether or not the indemnified parties are actual or potential parties to such claim or action) unless such settlement, compromise or consent is consented to by the indemnifying party, as applicable (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) and includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising out of such claim, action, suit or proceeding.

 

(d)           In the event that the indemnity provided in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Section is unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party for any reason, then each applicable indemnifying party shall have a joint and several obligation to contribute to the aggregate losses, claims, damages and liabilities (including legal or other expenses reasonably incurred in connection with investigating or defending any loss, claim, liability, damage or action) (collectively “Losses”) (other than by virtue of the failure of an indemnified party to notify the indemnifying party of its right to indemnification pursuant to paragraph (a) or (b) of this Section 6, where such failure materially prejudices the indemnifying party (through the forfeiture of substantial rights or defenses)), each indemnifying party, in order to provide for just and equitable contribution, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a result of such Losses, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by such indemnifying party, on the one hand, and such indemnified party, on the other hand, from the Initial Placement and the Registration Statement which resulted in such Losses; provided, however, that in no case shall any Initial Purchaser be responsible, in the aggregate, for any amount in excess of the purchase discount or commission applicable to such Security, or in the case of a New Security, applicable to the Security that was exchanged into such New Security, as set forth in the Final Memorandum, nor shall any underwriter be responsible for any amount in excess of the underwriting discount or commission applicable to the securities purchased by such underwriter under the Registration Statement which resulted in such Losses.  If the allocation provided by the immediately preceding sentence is unavailable for any reason, the indemnifying party and the indemnified party shall contribute in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only such relative benefits but also the relative fault of such indemnifying party, on the one hand, and such indemnified party, on the other hand, in connection with the statements or omissions which resulted in such Losses as well as any other relevant equitable considerations.  Benefits received by the Issuers shall be deemed to be equal to the aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes issued in the Initial Placement as set forth in the Final Memorandum.  Benefits received by the Initial Purchasers shall be deemed to be equal to the total fees received in the Initial Placement, and benefits received by any other Holders shall be deemed to be equal to the value of receiving Securities or New Securities, as applicable, registered under the Securities Act.  Benefits received by any underwriter shall be deemed to be equal to the total underwriting discounts and commissions, as set forth on the cover page of the Prospectus forming a part of the Registration Statement which resulted in such Losses.  Relative fault shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether any untrue or any alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information provided by the indemnifying party, on the one hand, or by the indemnified party, on the other hand, the intent of the parties and their relative knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such untrue statement or omission.  The parties agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the Holders were treated as one entity for such purpose) or any other method of allocation

 

16

 

which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to above.  Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph (d), no person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.  For purposes of this Section, each person who controls a Holder within the meaning of either the Securities Act or the Exchange Act and each director, officer, employee and agent of such Holder shall have the same rights to contribution as such Holder, and each person who controls the Issuers or any Guarantor within the meaning of either the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, each officer of the Issuers or any Guarantor who shall have signed the Registration Statement and each director of the Issuers or any Guarantor shall have the same rights to contribution as the Issuers and the Guarantors, subject in each case to the applicable terms and conditions of this paragraph (d).

 

(e)           The provisions of this Section will remain in full force and effect, regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Holder or the Issuers and the Guarantors or any of the indemnified persons referred to in this Section 6, and will survive the sale by a Holder of securities covered by a Registration Statement.

 

7.             Underwritten Registrations.  (a)  If any of the Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, covered by any Shelf Registration Statement are to be sold in an underwritten offering, the Managing Underwriters shall be selected by the Majority Holders, subject to the consent of the Issuers (which shall not be unreasonably withheld), and the Holders of Securities or New Securities covered by such Shelf Registration Statement shall be responsible for all underwriting commissions and discounts.

 

(b)           No person may participate in any underwritten offering pursuant to any Shelf Registration Statement, unless such person (i) agrees to sell such person’s Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, on the basis reasonably provided in any underwriting arrangements approved by the persons entitled hereunder to approve such arrangements; and (ii) completes and executes all questionnaires, powers of attorney, indemnities, underwriting agreements and other documents reasonably required under the terms of such underwriting arrangements.

 

8.             Registration Defaults.

 

(a)           In the event that (i) (x) the Exchange Offer Registration Statement does not become effective on or prior to the 365th day after the date hereof, (y) such Exchange Offer Registration Statement becomes effective but ceases to be effective or usable or (z) the Exchange Offer is not completed within 30 days after the date on which the Exchange Offer Registration Statement becomes effective, or (ii) a Shelf Registration Statement is required in accordance with Section 3(a) and such Shelf Registration Statement (x) does not become effective (A) on or prior to the 365th day following the date of such determination, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement required pursuant to Section 3(a)(i) or (B) on or prior to the 485th day following the date hereof, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement required pursuant to Section 3(a)(ii), (iii) or (iv), or (y) becomes effective but ceases to be effective or the corresponding Prospectus ceases to be usable at any time during the Shelf Registration Period, (any event referred to in the foregoing clauses (i) or (ii) a “Registration Default”), then, in each case,

 

17

 

the interest rate on the Securities will be increased by 0.25% per annum for the first 90-day period immediately following such Registration Default and (ii) an additional 0.25% per annum with respect to each subsequent 90-day period, up to a maximum of 1.00% per annum, in each case to but excluding the earlier of (i) the date on which all Registration Defaults have been cured and (ii) the date which is two years from the date hereof.  Any amounts payable under this paragraph shall also be deemed “Additional Interest” for purposes of this Agreement.

 

(b)           The Company shall notify the Trustee within five business days after each and every date on which an event occurs in respect of which Additional Interest is required to be paid (an “Event Date”).  Any Additional Interest due shall be payable on each interest payment date to the Holder of Senior Notes with respect to which Additional Interest is due and owing.  Each obligation to pay Additional Interest shall be deemed to accrue from and including the day following the applicable Event Date.

 

9.             No Inconsistent Agreements.  The Issuers and the Guarantors have not entered into, and agree not to enter into, any agreement with respect to their securities that is inconsistent with the rights granted to the Holders herein or that otherwise conflicts with the provisions hereof.

 

10.          Amendments and Waivers.  The provisions of this Agreement may not be amended, qualified, modified or supplemented, and waivers or consents to departures from the provisions hereof may not be given, unless the Issuers and the Guarantors have obtained the written consent of the Holders of a majority of the aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes outstanding; provided that, with respect to any matter that directly or indirectly affects the rights of any Initial Purchaser hereunder, the Issuers and the Guarantors shall obtain the written consent of each such Initial Purchaser against which such amendment, qualification, supplement, waiver or consent is to be effective; provided, further, that no amendment, qualification, supplement, waiver or consent with respect to Section 8 hereof shall be effective as against any Holder of Registered Securities unless consented to in writing by such Holder; and provided, further, that the provisions of this Article 10 may not be amended, qualified, modified or supplemented, and waivers or consents to departures from the provisions hereof may not be given, unless the Issuers and the Guarantors have obtained the written consent of the Initial Purchasers and each Holder.  Notwithstanding the foregoing (except the foregoing provisos), a waiver or consent to departure from the provisions hereof with respect to a matter that relates exclusively to the rights of Holders whose Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, are being sold pursuant to a Registration Statement and that does not directly or indirectly affect the rights of other Holders may be given by the Majority Holders, determined on the basis of Securities or New Securities, as the case may be, being sold rather than registered under such Registration Statement.

 

11.          Notices.  All notices and other communications provided for or permitted hereunder shall be made in writing by hand-delivery, first-class mail, telex, telecopier, other electronic means or air courier guaranteeing overnight delivery:

 

(a)               if to a Holder, at the most current address given by such holder to the Issuers in accordance with the provisions of this Section 11, which address initially is, with respect to each Holder, the address of such Holder maintained by the Registrar under the Indenture;

 

18

 

(b)               if to the Initial Purchasers, initially at the address or addresses set forth in the Purchase Agreement; and

 

(c)               if to the Issuers, initially at the address set forth in the Purchase Agreement.

 

All such notices and communications shall be deemed to have been duly given when received.

 

The Initial Purchasers or the Issuers by notice to the other parties may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.

 

12.          Remedies.  Each Holder, in addition to being entitled to exercise all rights provided to it herein, in the Indenture or in the Purchase Agreement or granted by law, including recovery of liquidated or other damages, will be entitled to specific performance of its rights under this Agreement. The Issuers and the Guarantors agree that monetary damages would not be adequate compensation for any loss incurred by reason of a breach by them of the provisions of this Agreement and hereby agree to waive in any action for specific performance the defense that a remedy at law would be adequate.

 

13.          Successors.  This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the parties hereto, their respective successors and assigns, including, without the need for an express assignment or any consent by the Issuers and the Guarantors thereto, subsequent Holders of Securities and the New Securities, and the indemnified persons referred to in Section 6 hereof.  The Issuers and the Guarantors hereby agree to extend the benefits of this Agreement to any Holder of Securities and the New Securities, and any such Holder may specifically enforce the provisions of this Agreement as if an original party hereto.

 

14.          Counterparts.  This Agreement may be signed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

 

15.          Headings.  The section headings used herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction hereof.

 

16.          Applicable Law.  This Agreement and any claim, controversy or dispute arising under or related to this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and to be performed in the State of New York.  The parties hereto each hereby waive any right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim arising out of or relating to this Agreement.

 

17.          Severability.  In the event that any one of more of the provisions contained herein, or the application thereof in any circumstances, is held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect for any reason, the validity, legality and enforceability of any such provision in every other respect and of the remaining provisions hereof shall not be in any way impaired or affected thereby, it being intended that all of the rights and privileges of the parties shall be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

19

 

18.          Securities Held by the Issuers, etc.  Whenever the consent or approval of Holders of a specified percentage of principal amount of Securities or New Securities is required hereunder, Securities or New Securities, as applicable, held by the Issuers or their respective Affiliates (other than subsequent Holders of Securities or New Securities if such subsequent Holders are deemed to be Affiliates solely by reason of their holdings of such Securities or New Securities) shall not be counted in determining whether such consent or approval was given by the Holders of such required percentage.

 

[Signature Pages Follow]

 

20

 

If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our agreement, please sign and return to us the enclosed duplicate hereof, whereupon this letter and your acceptance shall represent a binding agreement between the Issuers, the Guarantors and the Initial Purchasers.

 

	
 
    	
Very   truly yours,
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY LLC,
    
	
 
    	
as the Company
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice President and Treasurer
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
EVEREST ACQUISITION FINANCE INC.
    
	
 
    	
as the Co-issuer
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice President and Treasurer
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY GLOBAL LLC
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY E&P COMPANY, L.P.
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY MANAGEMENT, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY GATHERING COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
EP ENERGY RESALE COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
CRYSTAL E&P COMPANY, L.L.C.
    
	
 
    	
as Guarantors
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/ Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Kyle McCuen
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice President and Treasurer 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
of each of the above listed Guarantors
    

 

SIGNATURE PAGE TO

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

 

 

	
The foregoing Agreement is hereby confirmed   and accepted as of the date first above written.
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, LLC
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
By:
    	
/s/ Steve Pedone
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Name: Steve Pedone
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
Title: Managing Director
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Acting on behalf of itself and as the   Representative of the several Initial Purchasers
    	
 
    

 

SIGNATURE PAGE TO

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

 

 

ANNEX A

 

Each broker-dealer that receives new securities for its own account pursuant to the Exchange Offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such new securities.  The Letter of Transmittal states that by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act.  This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of new securities received in exchange for securities where such securities were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities.  The Issuers have agreed that, starting on the expiration date and ending on the close of business 180 days after the expiration date, it will make this prospectus available to any broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale.  See “Plan of Distribution.”

 

A-1

 

ANNEX B

 

Each broker-dealer that receives new securities for its own account in exchange for securities, where such securities were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities, must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such new securities.  See “Plan of Distribution.”

 

B-1

 

ANNEX C

 

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

 

Each broker-dealer that receives new securities for its own account pursuant to the Exchange Offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such new securities.  This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of new securities received in exchange for securities where such securities were acquired as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities.  The issuers have agreed that, starting on the expiration date and ending on the close of business 180 days after the expiration date, it will make this prospectus, as amended or supplemented, available to any broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale.  In addition, until           ,       , all dealers effecting transactions in the new securities may be required to deliver a prospectus.

 

The issuers will not receive any proceeds from any sale of new securities by brokers-dealers.  New securities received by broker-dealers for their own account pursuant to the Exchange Offer may be sold from time to time in one or more transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions, through the writing of options on the new securities or a combination of such methods of resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices or negotiated prices.  Any such resale may be made directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers who may receive compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any such broker-dealer and/or the purchasers of any such new securities.  Any broker-dealer that resales new securities that were received by it for its own account pursuant to the Exchange Offer and any broker or dealer that participates in a distribution of such new securities may be deemed to be an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act and any profit of any such resale of new securities and any commissions or concessions received by any such persons may be deemed to be underwriting compensation under the Securities Act.  The Letter of Transmittal states that by acknowledging that it will deliver and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act.

 

For a period of 180 days after the expiration date, the issuers will promptly send additional copies of this prospectus and any amendment or supplement to this prospectus to any broker-dealer that requests such documents in the Letter of Transmittal.  The issuers have agreed to pay all expenses incident to the Exchange Offer (including the expenses of one counsel for holders of the securities) other than commissions or concessions of any brokers or dealers and will indemnify the holders of the securities (including any broker-dealers) against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.

 

[If applicable, add information required by Regulation S-K Items 507 and/or 508.]

 

C-1

 

ANNEX D

 

Rider A

 

PLEASE FILL IN YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS BELOW IF YOU ARE A BROKER-DEALER AND WISH TO RECEIVE 10 ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THE PROSPECTUS AND 10 COPIES OF ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO.

 

	
Name:
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Address:
    	
 
    	
 
    

 

 

Rider B

 

If the undersigned is not a broker-dealer, the undersigned represents that it acquired the New Securities in the ordinary course of its business, it is not engaged in, and does not intend to engage in, a distribution of New Securities and it has no arrangements or understandings with any person to participate in a distribution of the New Securities.  If the undersigned is a broker-dealer that will receive New Securities for its own account in exchange for Securities, it acknowledges that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such New Securities; however, by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, the undersigned will not be deemed to admit that it is an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act.

 

D-1

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