Key plan features

Novartis ADS Direct Plan

The Novartis ADS Direct Plan (the "Plan") provides investors in the United States with an easy and inexpensive way to invest in Novartis and systematically increase their holdings in Novartis.

The Plan holds Novartis American Depositary Shares ("ADSs"), which are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "NVS." The Plan is open to new investors, as well as existing holders of ADSs, in the United States.

 

Key features of the Plan:

• Free enrollment if you hold at least 10 ADSs in your name or if you make an initial direct purchase of ADSs in an amount of at least USD 500.
• Purchase ADSs without a stockbroker and with no fees or brokerage commissions.
• Invest as little as USD 100 or as much as USD 120 000 in ADSs in any calendar year.
• Purchase additional ADSs as often as twice a week through checks or money orders.
• Purchase additional ADSs monthly through automatic bank debit.
• Hold ADSs safely and inexpensively through book-entry accounts.
• Reinvest all cash dividends in additional ADSs, unless you elect otherwise.
• Convenience of making certain transaction requests by telephone or through the Internet.
• Please read the Plan prospectus carefully before investing and retain it for your future reference.
• Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of the prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

The Plan prospectus is dated May 11, 2001.