<SEC-DOCUMENT>0001193125-24-198440.txt : 20240812
<SEC-HEADER>0001193125-24-198440.hdr.sgml : 20240812
<ACCEPTANCE-DATETIME>20240812090005
ACCESSION NUMBER:		0001193125-24-198440
CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE:	424B5
PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT:		2
FILED AS OF DATE:		20240812
DATE AS OF CHANGE:		20240812

FILER:

	COMPANY DATA:	
		COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:			CENTERPOINT ENERGY INC
		CENTRAL INDEX KEY:			0001130310
		STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:	ELECTRIC SERVICES [4911]
		ORGANIZATION NAME:           	01 Energy & Transportation
		IRS NUMBER:				740694415
		STATE OF INCORPORATION:			TX
		FISCAL YEAR END:			1231

	FILING VALUES:
		FORM TYPE:		424B5
		SEC ACT:		1933 Act
		SEC FILE NUMBER:	333-272025
		FILM NUMBER:		241195098

	BUSINESS ADDRESS:	
		STREET 1:		1111 LOUISIANA ST.
		CITY:			HOUSTON
		STATE:			TX
		ZIP:			77002
		BUSINESS PHONE:		7132073000

	MAIL ADDRESS:	
		STREET 1:		1111 LOUISIANA ST.
		CITY:			HOUSTON
		STATE:			TX
		ZIP:			77002

	FORMER COMPANY:	
		FORMER CONFORMED NAME:	RELIANT ENERGY REGCO INC
		DATE OF NAME CHANGE:	20001220
</SEC-HEADER>
<DOCUMENT>
<TYPE>424B5
<SEQUENCE>1
<FILENAME>d880950d424b5.htm
<DESCRIPTION>424B5
<TEXT>
<HTML><HEAD>
<TITLE>424B5</TITLE>
</HEAD>
 <BODY BGCOLOR="WHITE" STYLE="line-height:Normal">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="right"><B>Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(5) <BR>Registration No. 333-272025 </B></P>
<p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Arial Narrow"><FONT COLOR="#ff4338"><B>The information in this preliminary prospectus supplement is not
complete and may be changed. This preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus are not an offer to sell these securities and are not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not
permitted. </B></FONT></P> <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:9pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><FONT COLOR="#ff4338"><B>SUBJECT TO COMPLETION,
DATED AUGUST&nbsp;12, 2024 </B></FONT></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:9pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:9pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>(To Prospectus dated May&nbsp;17, 2023) </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:18pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<P STYLE="font-size:0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt" ALIGN="center">


<IMG SRC="g880950g24i27.jpg" ALT="LOGO" STYLE="width:1.89847in;height:0.67939in;">
 </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:22pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>CenterPoint Energy, Inc. </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT>
Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series A, due&nbsp;2055 </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series B, due&nbsp;2055 </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center>
<P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This is an
offering of $&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;of &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series A, due 2055 (&#147;Series A Notes&#148;) and
$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; of &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series B, due 2055 (&#147;Series B Notes&#148;, collectively, the
&#147;notes&#148;) to be issued by CenterPoint Energy, Inc., a Texas corporation. The Series A Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the date of original issuance to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2030 at an annual rate of
&#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2030 during each Series A Interest Reset Period (as defined in this prospectus supplement) at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate (as defined in this prospectus
supplement) as of the most recent Series A Reset Interest Determination Date (as defined in this prospectus supplement), plus &#8195;&#8195;%. The Series B Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the date of original issuance to, but
excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2035 at an annual rate of &#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2035 during each Series B Interest Reset Period (as defined in this prospectus supplement) at an annual rate equal to the
Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent Series B Reset Interest Determination Date (as defined in this prospectus supplement), plus &#8195;&#8195;%. Interest on the notes will be payable semi-annually in arrears on February&nbsp;15 and
August&nbsp;15 of each year beginning on February&nbsp;15, 2025. The notes will be issued in registered form and in denominations of $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. The Series A Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055.
The Series B Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">So long as no event of default (as defined in this prospectus supplement) with
respect to the applicable series of notes has occurred and is continuing, we may, at our option, defer interest payments on the notes of either series on one or more occasions, from time to time, for up to 20 consecutive semi-annual interest payment
periods (as defined in this prospectus supplement). During any deferral period, interest on the notes of a given series will continue to accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on the notes of such series and, in addition, interest on deferred
interest will accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on the notes of such series, compounded semi-annually, to the extent permitted by applicable law, as described in this prospectus supplement. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may redeem the notes of either series before their maturity date at our option at the times and at the redemption prices described in this
prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes will be our unsecured obligations and will rank junior and subordinate in right of payment to the prior
payment in full of our existing and future Senior Indebtedness (as defined in this prospectus supplement). See &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Ranking&#148; and &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Subordination.&#148; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Investing in the notes involves risks. See &#147;<A HREF="#supptoc880950_2">Risk Factors</A>&#148; on page
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-10</FONT> of this prospectus supplement and page&nbsp;4 of the accompanying prospectus. </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center>
<P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Neither the
Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the
contrary is a criminal offense. </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="92%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8.5pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="62%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="5%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="5%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="5%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="5%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Per&nbsp;Series&nbsp;A<BR>Note</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Total</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Per&nbsp;Series&nbsp;B<BR>Note</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Total</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>


<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8.5pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Public offering price (1)</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8.5pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Underwriting discount</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8.5pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Proceeds, before expenses, to CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (1)</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="line-height:8.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1px solid #000000;width:11%">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8.5pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(1)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">Plus accrued interest, if any, from August &#8195;, 2024, if settlement occurs after that date.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The underwriters expect to deliver the notes to purchasers through the book-entry facilities of The Depository Trust
Company and for the accounts of its participants, including Clearstream Banking S.A. and Euroclear Bank SA/NV, as operator of the Euroclear System, against payment in New York, New York on or about August&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;, 2024. </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center> <P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:8.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><I>Joint Book-Running Managers </I></B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:8pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="100%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:13pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="10%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="36%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="18%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="12%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="20%"></TD></TR>


<TR STYLE="font-size:1pt">
<TD HEIGHT="8"></TD>
<TD HEIGHT="8" COLSPAN="2"></TD>
<TD HEIGHT="8" COLSPAN="2"></TD>
<TD HEIGHT="8" COLSPAN="2"></TD>
<TD HEIGHT="8" COLSPAN="2"></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:13pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"><B>Barclays</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="top" ALIGN="center"><B>Goldman&nbsp;Sachs&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Co.&nbsp;LLC</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="top" ALIGN="center"><B>J.P.&nbsp;Morgan</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="top" ALIGN="center"><B>Mizuho</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="top" ALIGN="right"><B>Morgan&nbsp;Stanley</B></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="100%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="20%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="33%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="27%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD WIDTH="17%"></TD></TR>

<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"><B>BNP&nbsp;PARIBAS</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="top" ALIGN="center"><B>RBC&nbsp;Capital&nbsp;Markets</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><B>Truist&nbsp;Securities</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><B>US&nbsp;Bancorp</B></TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>August &#8195;, 2024 </B></P>
</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This document consists of two parts, which should be read together. The first part is this
prospectus supplement, which describes the specific terms of the notes, the specific terms of this offering and supplements and updates information contained in the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference into this
prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. The second part, the accompanying prospectus, provides more general information about the notes and other securities that may be offered from time to time using such prospectus, some of which
general information does not apply to this offering. Generally, when we refer to the prospectus, we are referring to both parts of this document combined. You should read this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus together with any
written communication prepared by us or on our behalf in connection with this offering together with the additional information described in the accompanying prospectus under the heading &#147;Where You Can Find More Information&#148; and in this
prospectus supplement under the headings &#147;Where You Can Find More Information&#148; and &#147;Incorporation By Reference.&#148; If the description of the notes varies between this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, you
should rely on the information in this prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We have not, and the underwriters have not, authorized anyone to provide
any information or to make any representations other than those contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and any written communication prepared by us or on our behalf. We and the underwriters
take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. We are not, and the underwriters are not, making an offer to sell the notes and are not soliciting an offer to buy the
notes in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. The information we have included in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is accurate only as of the date of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying
prospectus, as the case may be, and any information we have incorporated by reference is accurate only as of the date of the document incorporated by reference. Our businesses, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have
changed since these respective dates. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Any information contained in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus or in a
document incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus will be deemed to be modified or superseded to the extent that a statement contained in this prospectus supplement or in any other subsequently filed
document that is also incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement modifies or supersedes that statement. Any statement so modified or superseded will not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this
prospectus supplement. See &#147;Incorporation By Reference&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Bank of New York Mellon Trust
Company, National Association, in each of its capacities referenced herein, including, but not limited to, trustee, security registrar and paying agent, has not participated in the preparation of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying
prospectus and assumes no responsibility for its content. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-i</FONT> </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc"></A>TABLE OF CONTENTS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Prospectus Supplement </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="100%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" ALIGN="center">


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<TD WIDTH="95%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Page</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>


<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_1">Summary</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-1</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_2">Risk Factors</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-10</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_3">Use of Proceeds</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-17</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_4">Capitalization</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-18</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_5">Description of Notes</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-19</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_6">Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-35</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_7">Underwriting (Conflicts of Interest)</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-41</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_8">Legal Matters</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-48</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_9">Experts</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-48</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_10">Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-49</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_11">Where You Can Find More Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-52</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#supptoc880950_12">Incorporation By Reference</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-52</FONT></TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Prospectus </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="100%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="95%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="3%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Page</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>


<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_1">About This Prospectus</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_2">Where You Can Find More Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_3">Incorporation By Reference</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_4">About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">3</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_5">Risk Factors</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">4</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_6">Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">4</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_7">Use of Proceeds</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">8</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_8">Description of Our Debt Securities</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">9</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_9">Description of Our Capital Stock</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">19</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_10">Description of Stock Purchase Contracts and Equity Units</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">26</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_11">Description of Our Depositary Shares</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">26</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_12">Holding Company Structure</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">27</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_13">Plan of Distribution</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">27</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_14">Legal Matters</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">29</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_15">Experts</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">30</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We expect that delivery of the notes will be made against payment therefor on or about August&nbsp;&#8195;,
2024, which will be the second business day following the date of pricing of the notes (this settlement cycle being referred to as &#147;T+2&#148;). Under Rule <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">15c6-1</FONT> of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the &#147;Exchange Act&#148;), trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in one business day, unless the parties to a trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, purchasers who wish to trade the notes on the initial
pricing date of the notes will be required, by virtue of the fact that the notes initially will settle in T+2, to specify alternative settlement arrangements at the time of any such trade to prevent a failed settlement and should consult their own
advisors. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-ii</FONT> </P>

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<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<div style ="BORDER-BOTTOM:1.00pt solid #000000;BORDER-LEFT:1.00pt solid #000000;BORDER-RIGHT:1.00pt solid #000000;BORDER-TOP:1.00pt solid #000000;MARGIN-LEFT:0px; MARGIN-RIGHT:0px;max-width:100%"><div style="width:97%; margin-top:1.5%; margin-bottom:1.5%; margin-left:1.5%; margin-right:-1.25%">

 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_1"></A>SUMMARY </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>This summary highlights information from this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. It is not complete and may not contain
all of the information that you should consider before investing in the notes. We encourage you to read this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein or therein in their entirety before
making an investment decision, including the information set forth under the heading &#147;Risk Factors.&#148; </I></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>The terms
&#147;CenterPoint Energy,&#148; &#147;we,&#148; &#147;our,&#148; and &#147;us&#148; refer to CenterPoint Energy, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. The term &#147;notes&#148; refers to our&#8195;&#8195;% <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series A and our&#8195;&#8195;%
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series B, collectively. </I></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>CenterPoint Energy, Inc. </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are a public utility holding company. Our operating subsidiaries own and operate electric transmission, distribution and generation
facilities and natural gas distribution systems. As of the date of this prospectus supplement, our indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries include: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(1)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC (&#147;Houston Electric&#148;), which owns and operates electric
transmission and distribution facilities in the Texas gulf coast area that includes the city of Houston. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(2)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp. (&#147;CERC Corp.&#148;), which (i)&nbsp;directly owns and operates natural
gas distribution systems in Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi and Texas; (ii)&nbsp;indirectly, through Indiana Gas Company, Inc. and Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio, LLC, doing business as CenterPoint Energy Ohio, owns and operates natural gas
distribution systems in Indiana and Ohio, respectively, and (iii)&nbsp;owns and operates permanent pipeline connections through interconnects with various interstate and intrastate pipeline companies through CenterPoint Energy Intrastate Pipelines,
LLC. On February&nbsp;19, 2024, CERC Corp., entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement to sell its Louisiana and Mississippi natural gas local distribution company businesses. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject
to certain closing conditions. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(3)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (&#147;SIGECO&#148;), which provides energy delivery services to
electric and natural gas customers located in and near Evansville in southwestern Indiana and owns and operates electric generation assets to serve its electric customers and optimizes those assets in the wholesale power market.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, our reportable segments were Electric, Natural Gas and Corporate and Other. Houston Electric
and CERC Corp., together with its subsidiaries, each consist of one reportable segment. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, we, Houston Electric
and SIGECO had variable interest entities (&#147;VIEs&#148;) including CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company IV, LLC (&#147;Bond Company IV&#148;), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Houston Electric, CenterPoint Energy Restoration Bond Company, LLC
(&#147;Restoration Bond Company&#148; and together with Bond Company IV, the &#147;Bond Companies&#148;), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Houston Electric, and SIGECO Securitization I, LLC (the &#147;Securitization Subsidiary&#148;), a wholly-owned
subsidiary of SIGECO, which are consolidated. The consolidated VIEs are wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote, special purpose entities that were formed solely for the purpose of securitizing transition property or facilitating the securitization
financing of qualified costs in the second quarter of 2023 associated with the completed retirement of SIGECO&#146;s A.B. Brown coal generation facilities. We, through SIGECO, have a controlling financial interest in the Securitization Subsidiary
and are the VIE&#146;s primary beneficiary. Creditors of us, Houston Electric and SIGECO have no recourse to any assets or revenues of the Bond Companies or the Securitization Subsidiary, as applicable. The bonds (the &#147;Securitization
Bonds&#148;) issued by these VIEs are payable only from and secured by transition or securitization property, as applicable, and the bondholders have no recourse to the general credit of CenterPoint Energy, Houston Electric or SIGECO. </P>
</div></div>

 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-1 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Recent Developments </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>CenterPoint Energy Common Stock Offering</I></B>. On August 9, 2024, we closed an underwritten public offering (the &#147;Common Stock
Offering&#148;) of 9,754,194 shares of our common stock, par value $0.01 per share, at a public offering price of $25.63 per share, for expected gross proceeds of approximately $250 million before deducting estimated offering expenses. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl.</I></B> Houston Electric&#146;s service territory experienced sudden and destructive severe
weather events in May 2024 that included hurricane-like winds and tornadoes (the &#147;May 2024 Storm Events&#148;). Subsequently, on July&nbsp;8, 2024, Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas, bringing sustained winds, storm surges and torrential
rain into Houston Electric&#146;s service territory. The May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl caused significant damage to Houston Electric&#146;s electric delivery system and resulted in electric service interruptions peaking at an estimated
922,000 customers and an estimated 2.26&nbsp;million customers, respectively. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Houston Electric implemented its emergency operations
plan&#146;s processes and procedures to respond to these events, including establishing an incident command center and calling for mutual assistance from other utilities, among other measures. Throughout these weather events, Houston Electric
remained in contact with its regulators and stakeholders, including federal, state and local officials, as well as the Public Utility Commission of Texas (&#147;PUCT&#148;) and Electric Reliability Council of Texas. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Governor of Texas issued a disaster declaration on April&nbsp;30, 2024 to address severe storms and flooding and subsequently amended it
to include the May 2024 Storm Events. President Biden also approved major disaster declarations for Texas counties impacted by severe weather and flooding events that began April&nbsp;26, 2024, including the May 2024 Storm Events. On July&nbsp;5,
2024, a state disaster declaration was issued based on the threat posed by Hurricane Beryl, and on July&nbsp;6, 2024 was amended to add additional counties to the disaster area. Subsequently, a federal emergency disaster declaration through the
Federal Emergency Management Agency to cover certain costs associated with Hurricane Beryl was also issued. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Houston Electric currently
estimates that total costs to restore the electric delivery facilities damaged as a result of the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl will be in the range of $425&nbsp;million to $475&nbsp;million and $1.2&nbsp;billion to $1.3&nbsp;billion,
respectively, based on currently available information. These preliminary estimates are subject to revision as certain restoration costs may continue through the end of 2024. As is common with electric utilities serving coastal regions, the poles,
towers, wires, street lights and pole-mounted equipment that comprise Houston Electric&#146;s transmission and distribution system are not covered by property insurance. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The ultimate recovery of costs relating to the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl is expected to be sought through the issuance and
sale of <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-recourse</FONT> securitization bonds for distribution-related costs and the Transmission Cost of Service capital mechanism for transmission-related costs, as applicable. However, neither the amount nor
timing of the recovery is certain. Assuming such securitization bonds are issued, Houston Electric would seek to recover the amount of the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl storm restoration costs approved by the PUCT out of the net proceeds
from the securitization bond offering, with the debt service and other financing costs of the securitization bonds being paid over the term of the securitization bonds through a storm restoration charge imposed on Houston Electric&#146;s customers.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Various governmental and regulatory agencies and other entities have called for or are conducting inquiries and investigations into
Hurricane Beryl and the efforts made by Houston Electric to prepare for, and respond to, this event, including the electric service outage issues. Agencies and entities that may conduct or are conducting such inquiries, investigations and other
reviews include the Texas Governor&#146;s office, the Texas Legislature and the PUCT. Additionally, on August&nbsp;2, 2024, Texas Lieutenant Governor Patrick publicly announced a letter that he sent to the PUCT urging the PUCT to claw back
$800&nbsp;million that we were approved to recover from </P>
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ratepayers pursuant to Texas legislation relating to emergency responsiveness and the leasing of mobile generation units. There are significant uncertainties around these inquiries and
investigations and potential results and consequences, including whether any financial penalties will be assessed or changes to Houston Electric&#146;s system, service territories, operations and/or regulatory treatment will result therefrom. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Houston Electric announced an initial hurricane preparedness and response action plan to the PUCT on July&nbsp;25, 2024 to enhance the
resiliency of the electric system through various investments. Since then, and following a meeting with Texas Governor Abbott on August&nbsp;1, 2024, Houston Electric publicly committed to accelerating its previously announced initial hurricane
preparedness and response action plan. Through this plan, Houston Electric additionally plans to work to improve customer communications, as well as strengthen the effectiveness of its emergency response, among other things. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>PUCT Proceedings</I></B>. On August&nbsp;1, 2024, Houston Electric announced that it was withdrawing both its application with the PUCT
requesting authority to change rates and charges for electric transmission and distribution service (&#147;general rate case&#148;) filed with the PUCT on March&nbsp;6, 2024 and its application for approval of its transmission and distribution
system resiliency plan (&#147;system resiliency plan&#148;) filed with the PUCT on April&nbsp;29, 2024, in order to focus on addressing the impacts of Hurricane Beryl in its service territory and accelerating preparedness and resiliency efforts for
the remaining storm season. As previously disclosed, Houston Electric was previously granted abatements of both its general rate case and system resiliency plan applications in July 2024. Houston Electric expects to complete a broader assessment of
additional system resiliency opportunities and would intend to refile a subsequent system resiliency plan. A number of intervenors have filed a motion to challenge the withdrawal of the general rate case. PUCT staff and the Office of Public Utility
Counsel had previously filed a letter in support of such withdrawal. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Corporate Information </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our principal executive offices are located at 1111 Louisiana Street, Houston, Texas 77002. Our telephone number is (713) <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">207-1111</FONT> and our website address is www.centerpointenergy.com. Other than the documents specifically referred to below under &#147;Where You Can Find More Information&#148; and &#147;Incorporation By
Reference,&#148; none of the information or documents posted, contained or referred to at www.centerpointenergy.com are incorporated by reference in, or otherwise made a part of, this prospectus supplement. </P>
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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>The Offering </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>The following summary contains basic information about this offering. For a more complete understanding of this offering, we encourage you
to read this entire prospectus supplement, including &#147;Description of Notes,&#148; and the accompanying prospectus, including &#147;Description of Our Debt Securities.&#148; </I></P>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Issuer </P></TD>
<TD>CenterPoint Energy, Inc., a Texas corporation. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Securities Offered </P></TD>
<TD>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; principal amount of &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series A and
$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; principal amount of &#8195;&#8195;% <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series B. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Denominations </P></TD>
<TD>$2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Maturity </P></TD>
<TD>The Series A Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055 and the Series&nbsp;B Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Interest </P></TD>
<TD>The Series A Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the date of the original issuance to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2030 at an annual rate of &#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2030 during
each Series A Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent Series A Reset Interest Determination Date, plus &#8195;&#8195;%. The Series B Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the
date of the original issuance to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2035 at an annual rate of &#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2035 during each Series B Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year
Treasury Rate as of the most recent Series B Reset Interest Determination Date, plus &#8195;&#8195;%. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Optional Interest Deferral </P></TD>
<TD>So long as no event of default (as defined below under &#147;&#151;Events of Default&#148;) with respect to the applicable series of notes has occurred and is continuing, we may, at our option, defer interest payments on a given series of notes
on one or more occasions, from time to time, for up to 20 consecutive semi-annual interest payment periods (as defined below) (each such deferral period, which will commence on the interest payment date on which the first such deferred interest
payment otherwise would have been made, a &#147;Series A Optional Deferral Period&#148; or a &#147;Series B Optional Deferral Period&#148; and together, an &#147;optional deferral period&#148;), except that no such optional deferral period may
extend beyond the maturity date of the applicable series of notes or end on a day other than the day immediately preceding an interest payment date, and we may not begin a new Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period,
as applicable, and may not pay current interest on the applicable series of the notes until we have paid all accrued interest on such series of notes from the previous Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as
applicable. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">During any optional deferral period, interest on the notes of a given series will continue to accrue at the then-applicable
interest rate on such series of notes. In addition, during any optional deferral period, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:0%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
interest on the deferred interest (&#147;compound interest&#148;) will accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on the notes of such series, compounded semi-annually, to the extent permitted
by applicable law. The interest payment date falling immediately after the last day of an optional deferral period shall not be deemed to fall on a day during such optional deferral period. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">No interest will be due or payable on the notes of a given series during any such optional deferral period, except upon a redemption of any notes of such series on any redemption date during such optional deferral
period (in which case all accrued and unpaid interest (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest) on the notes of such series to be redeemed to, but excluding, such redemption date will be due and payable on such
redemption date), or unless the principal of and interest on the notes of such series shall have been declared due and payable as the result of an event of default with respect to the notes of such series (in which case all accrued and unpaid
interest, including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest, on the notes shall become due and payable). </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">Before the end of any optional deferral period that is shorter than 20 consecutive interest payment periods, we may elect, at our option, to extend such optional deferral period, so long as the entire optional deferral
period does not exceed 20 consecutive interest payment periods or extend beyond the maturity date of the notes of the applicable series. We may also elect, at our option, to shorten the length of any optional deferral period. No optional deferral
period (including as extended or shortened) may end on a day other than the day immediately preceding an interest payment date. At the end of any optional deferral period, if all amounts then due on the notes of the applicable series, including all
accrued and unpaid interest thereon (including, without limitation and to the extent permitted by applicable law, any deferred interest and any compound interest), are paid, we may elect to begin a new optional deferral period; provided, however,
that, without limitation of the foregoing, we may not begin a new optional deferral period unless we have paid all accrued and unpaid interest on the notes (including, without limitation and to the extent permitted by applicable law, any deferred
interest and any compound interest) from any previous optional deferral period. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">See &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments.&#148; </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Certain Restrictions During an Optional<BR> Deferral Period </P></TD>
<TD>During any optional deferral period, CenterPoint Energy (and its majority-owned subsidiaries, as applicable) will not do any of the following (subject to certain exceptions): </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="40%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">declare or pay any dividends or distributions on any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock (as defined in
&#147;Description of Notes&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments&#148;); </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
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<TD WIDTH="40%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">redeem, purchase, acquire or make a liquidation payment with respect to any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital
stock; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="40%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">pay any principal, interest (to the extent such interest is deferrable) or premium on, or repay, repurchase or
redeem, any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s indebtedness that ranks equally with or junior to the notes in right of payment (including debt securities of other series, such as the other series of the notes offered hereby); or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="40%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">make any payments with respect to any guarantees by CenterPoint Energy of any indebtedness if such guarantees
rank equally with or junior to the notes in right of payment. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">For further important information, including information concerning the exceptions referred to above, see &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments&#148; below in this prospectus supplement.
</TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Ranking </P></TD>
<TD>The notes will be our unsecured obligations and will rank junior and subordinate in right of payment to the prior payment in full of our existing and future Senior Indebtedness as defined in and to the extent and in the manner set forth under
&#147;Description of Notes&#151;Subordination.&#148; Our Senior Indebtedness includes (i)&nbsp;any indebtedness we may incur in the future under our Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated December&nbsp;6, 2022, by and among us, as
borrower, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, the lenders and other parties thereto (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the &#147;Credit Agreement&#148;), (ii) our $500&nbsp;million aggregate
principal amount of 2.50% Senior Notes due 2024, (iii) our $1&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026, (iv) our $400&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 5.25% Senior Notes due 2026, (v) our
$500&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 1.45% Senior Notes due 2026, (vi) our $150&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 4.25% Senior Notes due 2028, (vii) our $700&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 5.40% Senior Notes due 2029,
(viii) our $400&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 2.95% Senior Notes due 2030, (ix) our $500&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 2.65% Senior Notes due 2031 and (x)&nbsp;our $300&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of 3.70%
Senior Notes due 2049. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">The notes will rank equally in right of payment with (x)&nbsp;our existing 2.0% Zero-Premium Exchangeable Subordinated Notes due 2029 (the &#147;ZENS&#148;), (y) for a given series of the notes, the notes of the other
series and (z)&nbsp;any future unsecured indebtedness that we may incur from time to time if the terms of such indebtedness provide that it ranks equally with the notes in right of payment. For additional information, see &#147;Risk Factors&#151;Our
existing indebtedness, and any future indebtedness, may adversely affect our future financial and operating flexibility and our ability to service the notes. The indenture does not limit the aggregate amount of Senior Indebtedness or Secured
Indebtedness that we or our subsidiaries may incur&#148; and &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Ranking.&#148; </TD></TR></TABLE>
</div></div>

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<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, we, on an unconsolidated basis, had approximately $5.4&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of indebtedness outstanding, of which an aggregate of $4.5&nbsp;billion was Senior Indebtedness,
and an aggregate of $828&nbsp;million was our existing ZENS (with which the notes will rank equally in right of payment). Excluding subsidiaries issuing Securitization Bonds, as of June&nbsp;30, 2024, our subsidiaries had approximately
$13.5&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of third-party indebtedness outstanding, of which approximately $8.9&nbsp;billion was secured, as well as other liabilities. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Optional Redemption </P></TD>
<TD>We may redeem the Series A Notes: (i)&nbsp;in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Series&nbsp;A Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date on any
day in the period commencing on the date falling 90 days prior to the first Series A Reset Date and ending on and including the first Series A Reset Date and, after the first Series A Reset Date, on any interest payment date for the Series A Notes;
(ii)&nbsp;in whole, but not in part, at 100% of their principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if certain changes in tax laws, regulations or interpretations occur; or (iii)&nbsp;in whole, but not in part, at 102% of their
principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if a rating agency makes certain changes in the equity credit criteria for securities such as the Series A Notes. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">We may redeem the Series B Notes: (i)&nbsp;in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Series&nbsp;B Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding,
the redemption date on any day in the period commencing on the date falling 90 days prior to the first Series B Reset Date and ending on and including the first Series B Reset Date and, after the first Series B Reset Date, on any interest payment
date for the Series B Notes; (ii)&nbsp;in whole, but not in part, at 100% of their principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if certain changes in tax laws, regulations or interpretations occur; or (iii)&nbsp;in whole, but not
in part, at 102% of their principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if a rating agency makes certain changes in the equity credit criteria for securities such as the Series B Notes. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">For a more complete description of the circumstances under and the redemption prices at which the notes may be redeemed, see &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Redemption&#148; in this prospectus supplement.
</TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences </P></TD>
<TD> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">In connection with the issuance of the notes, Baker Botts L.L.P. will render its opinion that, while the matter is not completely free from doubt, under
applicable law as of the issue date of the notes, the notes will be properly characterized as indebtedness for U.S. federal income </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
</div></div>

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<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:0%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
tax purposes. This opinion is subject to certain customary assumptions and limitations. See &#147;Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences&#148; in this prospectus supplement. We agree, and
by acquiring an interest in a note each holder and beneficial owner of a note agrees, to treat the notes as indebtedness for U.S. federal, state and local tax purposes. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">If we defer payments of interest on either series of notes, the notes of the applicable series will be treated at that time, solely for purposes of the United States federal income tax original issue discount rules, as
having been retired and reissued with original issue discount. A holder of the notes of the applicable series subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis would be required to accrue that original issue discount for United
States federal income tax purposes in respect of such holder&#146;s proportionate share of the accrued but unpaid interest on the notes, regardless of such holder&#146;s method of tax accounting. As a result, a holder will be required to include the
accrued interest in such holder&#146;s gross income for United States federal income tax purposes even though such holder will not have received any associated cash. A holder&#146;s adjusted tax basis in a note generally will be increased by such
amounts that it was required to include in gross income. Holders should consult with their tax advisors regarding the tax consequences of an investment in the notes. See &#147;Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences&#148; in this prospectus
supplement. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR>
<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top">If you sell or otherwise dispose of a note before the record date for the payment of interest at the end of an Optional Deferral Period, you will not receive such interest. Instead, the accrued interest will be paid to
the holder of record on the record date regardless of who the holder of record may have been on any other date during the Optional Deferral Period. Moreover, if you are a U.S. holder, the accrued OID will be added to your adjusted tax basis in the
note but may not be reflected in the amount you realize on the sale or other disposition. To the extent the amount realized on a sale or other taxable disposition of a note is less than your adjusted tax basis, you will generally recognize a capital
loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. See &#147;Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences&#151;Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders&#151;Sale, Exchange, Retirement or Other Taxable
Disposition of the Notes&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Consolidation, Merger and Sale of Assets </P></TD>
<TD>The indenture restricts our ability to merge, consolidate or transfer substantially all of our assets. See &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Consolidation, Merger and Sale of Assets&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">No Listing </P></TD>
<TD> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">Each series of notes is a new issue of securities with no established trading market. No application is being or is intended to be made for the listing
or trading of either series of notes on any securities </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
</div></div>

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<TD WIDTH="38%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:0%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
exchange or trading facility or to include either series in any automated quotation system. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Risk Factors </P></TD>
<TD>You should consider carefully all the information set forth and incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and, in particular, you should evaluate the specific factors set forth under &#147;Risk
Factors&#148; beginning on <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">page&nbsp;S-10</FONT> of this prospectus supplement before deciding whether to invest in the notes. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Reopening of the Series </P></TD>
<TD>We may, without the consent of the holders of the notes, increase the principal amount of either series and issue additional junior subordinated notes of such series having the same ranking, interest rate, maturity and other terms as the notes.
Any such additional junior subordinated notes of such series may, together with the notes of such series offered hereby, constitute a single series of securities under the indenture. </TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Use of Proceeds </P></TD>
<TD>The net proceeds from this offering, after deducting the underwriting discount and estimated expenses of the offering payable by us, are expected to be approximately $&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;million. We intend to use the net
proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of the $500&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of our outstanding 2.50% senior notes due 2024 (our &#147;Senior Notes due 2024&#148;) and the repayment of a
portion of our outstanding commercial paper. Pending application of the net proceeds of this offering for the foregoing purposes, we expect to use the net proceeds to invest in the CenterPoint Energy money pool or various instruments that may
include, but would not be limited to, short-term, interest bearing obligations, including bank deposits and certificates of deposit with financial institutions having investment-grade ratings, U.S. government obligations or money market funds
primarily invested in securities issued by the U.S. government or its agencies. See &#147;Use of Proceeds&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Conflicts of Interest </P></TD>
<TD>Certain of the underwriters and/or their affiliates may hold a portion of our outstanding Senior Notes due 2024 (as defined herein) or commercial paper that we intend to repay using a portion of the net proceeds from this offering. See
&#147;Underwriting (Conflicts of Interest)&#151;Conflicts of Interest.&#148; </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Trustee </P></TD>
<TD>The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. </TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR VALIGN="TOP">
<TD WIDTH="38%"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:1pt; margin-left:2%; text-indent:-2%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Governing Law </P></TD>
<TD>The notes and the indenture pursuant to which the notes will be issued will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. </TD></TR></TABLE>
</div></div>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_2"></A>RISK FACTORS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>You should consider carefully the risk factors identified in Part I, Item 1A &#147;Risk Factors&#148; of our Annual Report on Form <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the fiscal year ended December&nbsp;31, 2023 (&#147;2023 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K&#148;)</FONT> and in Part II, Item 1A &#147;Risk Factors&#148; of our Quarterly Report on Form <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q</FONT> for the quarter ended June&nbsp;30, 2024 (&#147;2nd Quarter 2024 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q&#148;),</FONT> the following information about risks, as well as risks arising from any legal
proceedings identified or referenced in &#147;Legal Proceedings&#148; in Part 1, Item 3 of our 2023 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> and in Part II, Item 1 &#147;Legal Proceedings&#148; of our Quarterly Report on Form <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q</FONT> for the quarter ended March&nbsp;31, 2024 and our 2nd Quarter 2024 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q,</FONT> as they may be amended, supplemented or superseded from time to time by other reports that
we subsequently file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the &#147;SEC&#148;), together with the other information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, before making an
investment in the notes. </I></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Risks Related to the Company </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Hurricane Beryl caused severe disruptions to our operations, customers and markets in certain of our service territories and could have a material
adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity, which may cause the credit ratings and market value of the notes to decline. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas, bringing sustained winds, storm surges and torrential rain, which impacted our
operations, customers and personnel in our Texas Gulf Coast markets. Hurricane Beryl caused significant damage to Houston Electric&#146;s electric delivery system, resulting in a substantial number of its customers (peaking at more than an estimated
2.26&nbsp;million customers out of 2.8&nbsp;million customers) being without power, many for extended periods of time. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The total cost for
the restoration of Houston Electric&#146;s electric delivery facilities as a result of Hurricane Beryl is currently estimated to be in the range of $1.2&nbsp;billion to $1.3&nbsp;billion, but such estimate is preliminary and restoration costs
ultimately incurred could vary from that estimate. Houston Electric believes it is entitled to recover prudently incurred storm restoration costs in accordance with applicable regulatory and legal principles. However, neither the amount nor timing
of the recovery is certain. Houston Electric&#146;s failure to recover costs incurred as a result of Hurricane Beryl could adversely affect our liquidity, cash flows and financial condition. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Various federal, state and local governmental and regulatory agencies and other entities, such as the Texas Governor&#146;s office, the Texas
Legislature and the PUCT, have called for or are conducting inquiries and investigations into Hurricane Beryl and the efforts made by Houston Electric to prepare for, and respond to, this event, including the electric service outage issues.
Moreover, additional governmental and regulatory agencies and other entities may conduct such inquiries and investigations, as well. Additionally, on August&nbsp;2, 2024, Texas Lieutenant Governor Patrick publicly announced a letter that he sent to
the PUCT urging the PUCT to claw back $800&nbsp;million that we were approved to recover from ratepayers pursuant to Texas legislation relating to emergency responsiveness and the leasing of mobile generation units. There are significant
uncertainties around these inquiries and investigations and potential results and consequences, including whether any financial penalties will be assessed or changes to Houston Electric&#146;s system, service territories, operations and/or
regulatory treatment will result therefrom. If these or other inquiries, investigations or reviews ultimately result in changes to Houston Electric&#146;s system, service territories, operations and/or regulatory treatment, such changes could have a
material adverse impact on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We and Houston Electric are subject
to current and potential future litigation and claims arising out of Hurricane Beryl, which litigation and claims could include allegations of, among other things, personal injury, property damage, various economic losses in connection with loss of
power, unlawful business practices, and others. Several lawsuits have been filed against us and/or Houston Electric, including three putative class actions claiming losses due to power outages following Hurricane Beryl and each seeking damages in
excess of $100&nbsp;million for, among other things, business interruption, property damage and loss, cost of repair, loss of use </P>
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and market value, lost income, nuisance, extreme mental anguish and/or punitive damages. We and our subsidiaries have general and excess liability insurance policies that provide coverage for
third party bodily injury and property damage claims. Given the nature of some allegations, however, it is possible that the insurers could dispute coverage for some types of claims or damages that may be alleged by plaintiffs. We and Houston
Electric intend to continue to pursue all available insurance coverage for all of these matters. While we and Houston Electric intend to vigorously defend themselves against the lawsuits, final resolution of these matters, or any potential future
claims or liabilities, may require expenditures that may be in excess of established insurance or reserves and may have a material adverse effect on our and our subsidiaries&#146; financial condition, results of operation, cash flows and liquidity.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Additionally, our debt securities, including the notes offered hereby, are rated by various credit rating agencies. In August 2024, while
Moody&#146;s affirmed its ratings for our debt securities, it placed our debt securities on negative outlook, citing the increased political, regulatory, legal and reputational risk following our performance during Hurricane Beryl and in the
subsequent restoration process. Further, in July 2024, while Fitch affirmed its ratings for our debt securities, it placed our debt securities on negative outlook, citing the expected impact from 2024 Texas storm costs and the political/regulatory
headwinds in the wake of our storm response to Hurricane Beryl and its potential implications for Houston Electric&#146;s regulatory compact in the state. There is no guarantee that the credit rating agencies will not take further action on our
credit ratings as a result of our exposure to damages and liabilities from Hurricane Beryl. Any downgrade of the credit ratings or outlook on our debt securities could lead to higher borrowing costs and impact our ability to access the capital
markets. Furthermore, a downgrade would likely reduce the market prices of our equity and debt securities, including the notes offered hereby. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">For further information regarding the impact of Hurricane Beryl on our system, including related governmental inquiries, pending and potential
litigation and potential insurance coverage issues, see Notes 13 and 20 to the Combined Notes to Interim Condensed Financial Statements, &#147;Management&#146;s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations at Center Point
Energy, Inc. and Subsidiaries&#151;Recent Events&#151;May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl&#148; and &#147;Risk Factors&#151;Hurricane Beryl caused severe disruptions to our operations, customers and markets in certain of our service
territories and could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and liquidity&#148; in our Quarterly Report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q</FONT> for the quarterly period ended
June&nbsp;30, 2024. For risks relating to severe weather events, see &#147;Risk Factors &#151;General and Other Risks&#151;Climate change could adversely impact financial results from our business and result in more frequent and more severe weather
events that could adversely affect our results of operations&#148; in our 2023 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K.</FONT> For additional information regarding risks of insufficient insurance, see Risk Factors&#151;&#147;Our insurance
coverage may not be sufficient. Insufficient insurance coverage and increased insurance costs could adversely impact our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows&#148; in our 2023 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K.</FONT>
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Risks Related to the Notes </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>The notes are
subordinated or structurally subordinated to all of our and our subsidiaries&#146; indebtedness (other than our existing ZENS and any unsecured indebtedness that we may in the future incur that ranks junior to or pari passu with the notes) and
effectively subordinated to any existing and future secured debt to the extent of the assets securing any such secured debt. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Pursuant to the terms of the indenture, the notes will be subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future Senior
Indebtedness (as defined under &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Subordination&#148;). This means that, in the event of (a)&nbsp;our dissolution, <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">winding-up,</FONT> liquidation or reorganization, (b)&nbsp;our failure
to pay any interest, principal or other monetary amounts due on any of our Senior Indebtedness when due (and continuance of that default beyond any applicable grace period) or (c)&nbsp;acceleration of the maturity of any of our Senior Indebtedness
as a result of a default, we will not be permitted to make any payments on the notes until, in the case of clause (a), all amounts due or to become due on all of our Senior Indebtedness have been paid in full, or,
</P>
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in the case of clauses (b)&nbsp;and (c), all amounts due on our Senior Indebtedness have been paid in full. See &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Subordination.&#148; Additionally, the notes will
rank equally in right of payment with (x)&nbsp;our ZENS, (y)&nbsp;for a given series of the notes, the notes of the other series and (z)&nbsp;any future unsecured indebtedness that we may incur from time to time if the terms of such indebtedness
provide that it ranks equally with the notes in right of payment. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Furthermore, the notes are exclusively our obligations. We are a
holding company that derives all of our operating income from, and holds substantially all of our assets through, our subsidiaries. As a result, we depend on the performance of and distributions from our subsidiaries to meet our debt service
obligations and to pay dividends on our common stock. In general, our subsidiaries are separate and distinct legal entities and have no obligation to provide us with funds for our payment obligations, whether by dividends, distributions, loans or
otherwise. In addition, provisions of applicable law, such as those limiting the legal sources of dividends, limit our subsidiaries&#146; ability to make payments or other distributions to us, and our subsidiaries could agree to contractual
restrictions on their ability to make payments or other distributions. Our right to receive assets of any subsidiary, and therefore the right of our creditors to participate in those assets, are structurally subordinated to the claims of our
subsidiaries&#146; creditors, including trade creditors. In addition, even if we were a creditor of any subsidiary, our rights as a creditor would likely be effectively subordinated to any security interest in the assets of that subsidiary and any
Senior Indebtedness of that subsidiary. As a result, the notes will be structurally subordinated to all of the liabilities of our subsidiaries with regard to the assets and earnings of our subsidiaries. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Our existing indebtedness, and any future indebtedness, may adversely affect our future financial and operating flexibility and our ability to service
the notes. The indenture does not limit the aggregate amount of Senior Indebtedness or secured indebtedness that we or our subsidiaries may incur. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, we, on an unconsolidated basis, had approximately $5.4&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of indebtedness
outstanding, of which an aggregate of $4.5&nbsp;billion was Senior Indebtedness, and an aggregate of $828&nbsp;million was our existing ZENS (with which the notes will rank equally in right of payment). Excluding subsidiaries issuing Securitization
Bonds, as of June&nbsp;30, 2024, our subsidiaries had approximately $13.5&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of third-party indebtedness outstanding, of which approximately $8.9&nbsp;billion was secured, as well as other liabilities. Our
existing indebtedness and the additional debt we may incur in the future for, among other things, working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or operating activities may adversely affect our liquidity and, therefore, our ability to make
principal and interest payments on the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture does not limit the amount of Senior Indebtedness or secured indebtedness that
may be incurred by us or the amount of other indebtedness or liabilities that may be incurred by us or any of our subsidiaries. The incurrence by us or our subsidiaries of additional indebtedness, including the incurrence of additional Senior
Indebtedness or secured indebtedness by us, may have adverse consequences for you as a holder of the notes, including making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to the notes, a loss of all or part of the trading value of
your notes and a risk that one or more of the credit ratings assigned to us or the notes could be lowered or withdrawn. Both we and our subsidiaries expect to incur substantial amounts of additional indebtedness, including Senior Indebtedness, in
the future. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>We can defer interest payments on a given series of the notes on one or more occasions, from time to time, for up to 20 consecutive
semi-annual interest payment periods. This may affect the market price of the notes. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">So long as no event of default (as defined
below under &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Events of Default&#148;) with respect to the applicable series of notes has occurred and is continuing, we may, at our option, defer interest payments on a given series notes on one or more occasions, from
time to time, for up to 20 consecutive semi-annual interest payment periods (as defined below under &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments&#148;), except that no such optional deferral period may extend beyond the maturity
date of the applicable series of notes or end on a day other than the day immediately preceding an interest payment date, and we may </P>
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not begin a new Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable, and may not pay current interest on the applicable series of the notes until we have paid
all accrued interest on such series of notes from the previous Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable. As a result, we may elect, on one or more occasions, not to pay interest on the notes of a given
series for up to ten years. Moreover, following the end of any optional deferral periods, if all amounts then due on the notes of the applicable series are paid, we could immediately start a new optional deferral period of up to 20 consecutive
semi-annual interest payment periods. No interest will be due or payable on the notes of a given series during any such optional deferral period, except upon a redemption of any notes of such series on any redemption date during such optional
deferral period (in which case all accrued and unpaid interest (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest) on the notes of such series to be redeemed to, but excluding, such redemption date will be due and payable
on such redemption date), or unless the principal of and interest on the notes of such series shall have been declared due and payable as the result of an event of default with respect to the notes of such series (in which case all accrued and
unpaid interest, including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest, on the notes shall become due and payable). Instead, interest on the notes of the applicable series would be deferred but would continue to accrue at the
then-applicable interest rate on the notes of such series. In addition, during any optional deferral period, interest on the deferred interest would accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on the notes, compounded semi-annually, to the extent
permitted by applicable law. If we exercise this interest deferral right, the notes may trade at a price that does not reflect the value of accrued and unpaid interest on the notes or that is otherwise substantially less than the price at which the
notes would have traded if we had not exercised such interest deferral right. If we exercise this interest deferral right and you sell your notes during an optional deferral period, you may not receive the same return on your investment as a holder
that continues to hold its notes until we pay the deferred interest following the end of such optional deferral period. In addition, as a result of our right to defer interest payments, the market price of the notes may be more volatile than other
securities that do not have these rights. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>An election to defer interest payments on a given series of the notes will also impact our ability to
make interest payments on the other series of the notes. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As disclosed elsewhere in this prospectus supplement, if we elect to
defer interest payments on a given series of notes while the other series of notes remains outstanding, we would be prohibited from making payments on, and would likely elect to also defer interest payments on, the other series of the notes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>We are not permitted to pay current interest on the notes until we have paid all outstanding deferred interest, and this could have the effect of
extending interest deferral periods. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">During an optional deferral period, we will be prohibited from paying current interest on the
applicable notes until we have paid all accrued and unpaid deferred interest plus any accrued interest thereon. As a result, we may not be able to pay current interest on the applicable notes if we do not have available funds to pay all accrued and
unpaid deferred interest plus any accrued interest thereon. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Holders of the notes subject to United States federal income taxation may have to pay
taxes on interest before they receive payments from us. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we defer payments of interest on either series of notes, the notes of
the applicable series will be treated at that time, solely for purposes of the United States federal income tax original issue discount rules, as having been retired and reissued with original issue discount. A holder of the notes of the applicable
series subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis would be required to accrue that original issue discount for United States federal income tax purposes in respect of such holder&#146;s proportionate share of the accrued but
unpaid interest on the notes, regardless of such holder&#146;s method of tax accounting. As a result, a holder will be required to include the accrued interest in such holder&#146;s gross income for United States federal income tax purposes even
though such holder will not have received any associated cash. A holder&#146;s adjusted tax basis in a note generally will be increased by such amounts that it was required to include in gross income. Holders should
</P>
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consult with their tax advisors regarding the tax consequences of an investment in the notes. For more information regarding the U.S. tax consequences of owning and disposing of the notes, see
&#147;Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Holders of each series of the notes will have limited rights of acceleration.
</I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders of each series of the notes and the trustee under the indenture may accelerate payment of the principal and interest on
the notes only upon the occurrence and continuation of certain events of default. Payment of principal and interest on each series of the notes may be accelerated upon the occurrence of an event of default under the indenture related to failure to
pay interest within 30 days after it is due, failure to pay principal or premium, if any, on each series of the notes when due and certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or reorganization relating to us (but not our subsidiaries).
Holders of each series of the notes and the trustee will not have the right to accelerate payment of the principal or interest on each series of the notes upon the breach of any other covenant in the indenture. See &#147;Description of
Notes&#151;Events of Default&#148; and &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>We cannot assure you that an active
trading market will develop for the notes. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes of each series will be a new issue of securities for which currently there is
no established trading market. We do not intend to apply for the listing of the notes on any securities exchange or for quotation of the notes on any dealer quotation system. We cannot assure you that a trading market will develop for the notes.
Even if a market for the notes does develop, we cannot assure you that there will be liquidity in that market or that the notes might not trade for less than their original value or face amount. The liquidity of any market for the notes will depend
on the number of holders of the notes, the interest of securities dealers in making a market in the notes and other factors. If a liquid market for the notes does not develop, you may be unable to resell the notes for a long period of time, if at
all. This means you may not be able to readily convert your notes into cash, and the notes may not be accepted as collateral for a loan. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Ratings of
the notes may change and affect the market prices and marketability of the notes. In addition, we may redeem the notes if a rating agency makes certain changes in the equity credit methodology for securities such as the notes. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our debt securities are subject to periodic review by one or more independent credit rating agencies and may be subject to rating and periodic
review by additional independent credit rating agencies in the future. Any such ratings are limited in scope and do not address all material risks relating to an investment in the notes, but rather reflect only the view of the rating agency at the
time the rating is issued. An explanation of the significance of such rating may be obtained from such rating agency. We cannot assure you that such credit rating will remain in effect for any given period of time or that any such rating will not be
lowered, suspended or withdrawn entirely by the rating agency if, in such rating agency&#146;s judgment, circumstances so warrant. It is also possible that any such rating may be lowered in connection with future events. Holders of the notes will
have no recourse against us or any other parties in the event of a change in or suspension or withdrawal of any such rating. Any lowering, suspension or withdrawal of such ratings may have an adverse effect on the market prices or marketability of
the notes. In addition, we may, at our option, redeem the notes of the applicable series, in whole, but not in part, if a rating agency makes certain changes in the equity credit methodology for securities such as the notes. See &#147;Description of
Notes&#151;Redemption&#151;Redemption Following a Rating Agency Event&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>The indenture limits the ability of
security holders to bring suit, waive defaults and amend the indenture. </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture provides that the consent of holders of
certain minimum percentages of the aggregate principal amount of the notes outstanding under the indenture is required to waive certain defaults, bring suit and, with exceptions, amend the indenture. Your consent to such actions will not be
effective unless consents are </P>
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received from the holders of the required minimum amount of the notes. Further, even if you do not consent to such actions, those actions may still be taken if consented to by the holders of the
required minimum amount of the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to certain limited exceptions, the indenture provides that the trustee or the holders of
33% or more in aggregate principal amount of the notes outstanding under the indenture may declare the principal amount of the notes to be due and immediately payable if an event of default shall occur and is continuing. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>The notes are not protected by restrictive covenants. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture governing the notes will not contain any financial or operating covenants or restrictions on the payments of dividends (except
during an optional deferral period), the making of investments, the incurrence of indebtedness or the purchase or prepayment (except, with respect to securities that rank equally with or junior to the notes in right of payment, during an optional
deferral period) of securities by us or any of our subsidiaries. In addition, the indenture governing the notes will not require us to achieve or maintain any minimum financial results relating to our financial position or results of operations.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our ability to recapitalize, incur additional debt and take a number of other actions that are not limited by the terms of the notes
could have the effect of diminishing our ability to make payments on the notes when due, and require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, which would reduce the availability of cash
flow to fund our operations, working capital and capital expenditures. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>We may redeem the notes before they mature. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may redeem the notes in the circumstances described under &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Redemption&#151;Optional Redemption.&#148; These
redemption rights may, depending on prevailing market conditions at the time, create reinvestment risk for the holders of the notes in that they may be unable to find a suitable replacement investment with a comparable return to the notes. See
&#147;Description of Notes&#151;Redemption&#151;Optional Redemption.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>The interest rate will reset for the Series A Notes on February&nbsp;15,
2030 and each subsequent Series A Reset Date, and any interest payable after a Series A Reset Date may be less than an earlier interest rate. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The interest rate on the Series A Notes for each Series A Interest Reset Period will equal the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent
Series A Reset Interest Determination Date, plus &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;%. Therefore, the interest rate after February&nbsp;15, 2030 could be less than the initial interest rate applicable to the Series A Notes, and any interest payable after a
subsequent Series A Reset Date may be less than the interest rate for a prior period. We have no control over the factors that may affect United States Treasury rates, including geopolitical conditions and economic, financial, political, regulatory,
judicial or other events. See &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Interest and Maturity.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>The interest rate will reset for the Series B Notes on
February&nbsp;15, 2035 and each subsequent Series B Reset Date, and any interest payable after a Series B Reset Date may be less than an earlier interest rate. </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The interest rate on the Series B Notes for each Series B Interest Reset Period will equal the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent
Series B Reset Interest Determination Date, plus &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;%. Therefore, the interest rate after February&nbsp;15, 2035 could be less than the initial interest rate applicable to the Series B Notes, and any interest payable after a
subsequent Series B Reset Date may be less than the interest rate for a prior period. We have no control over the factors that may affect United States Treasury rates, including geopolitical conditions and economic, financial, political, regulatory,
judicial or other events. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-15 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Historical United States Treasury rates are not an indication of future United States Treasury rates.
</I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In the past, United States Treasury rates have experienced significant fluctuations. Historical levels, fluctuations and trends of
United States Treasury rates are not necessarily indicative of future levels. Any historical upward or downward trend in United States Treasury rates is not an indication that United States Treasury rates are more or less likely to increase or
decrease at any time after February&nbsp;15, 2030 or February&nbsp;15, 2035, as applicable, and historical United States Treasury rates are not an indication of future Five-Year Treasury Rates. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-16 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_3"></A>USE OF PROCEEDS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We expect the net proceeds from this offering to be approximately $&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;million after deducting the
underwriting discount and estimated expenses of the offering payable by us. We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of the $500&nbsp;million aggregate principal amount of our
outstanding Senior Notes due 2024, which mature on September&nbsp;1, 2024 and bear interest at a rate of 2.50% per annum, and the repayment of a portion of our outstanding commercial paper. Proceeds from our commercial paper were used for general
corporate purposes, including working capital purposes. On June&nbsp;30, 2024, we, on an unconsolidated basis, had approximately $0.9&nbsp;billion of commercial paper borrowings, which had a weighted-average maturity of 13.15 days and a
weighted-average interest rate of 5.47%. Certain of the underwriters and/or their affiliates may own some of our outstanding Senior Notes due 2024 or commercial paper and will therefore each receive a portion of the net proceeds upon such repayment.
See &#147;Underwriting (Conflicts of Interest)&#151;Conflicts of Interest.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Pending application of the net proceeds of this offering
for the foregoing purposes, we expect to use the net proceeds to invest in the CenterPoint Energy money pool or various instruments that may include, but would not be limited to, short-term, interest bearing obligations, including bank deposits and
certificates of deposit with financial institutions having investment-grade ratings, U.S. government obligations or money market funds primarily invested in securities issued by the U.S. government or its agencies. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-17 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_4"></A>CAPITALIZATION </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following table sets forth our consolidated short-term debt and capitalization as June&nbsp;30, 2024. No adjustments have been made for:
</P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the issuance of the notes in this offering or the use of proceeds therefrom, as discussed in &#147;Use of
Proceeds&#148; above; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the Common Stock Offering; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any changes in our consolidated short-term debt and capitalization after June&nbsp;30, 2024, including the
offering by our subsidiary of an estimated $325&nbsp;million in first mortgage bonds. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This table should be read in
conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and &#147;Management&#146;s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations&#148; included in our 2023 Form
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> and our 2nd Quarter 2024 Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q.</FONT> </P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="84%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="78%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="6%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="6%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="6" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>As&nbsp;of&nbsp;June&nbsp;30,&nbsp;2024</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" NOWRAP ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>&#8195;Actual&#8195;</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" NOWRAP ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>&#8195;%&#8195;</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:8pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="6" ALIGN="center"><B>(in millions)</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>


<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Short-Term Debt:</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Short-term borrowings</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right"> 2</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">0</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Current portion of VIE Securitization Bonds long-term debt</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">94</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">0</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Indexed debt, net (1)</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">4</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">0</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Current portion of other long-term debt</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">510</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">2</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:5.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total Short-Term Debt, net</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">610</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">2</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Long-Term Debt:</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">VIE Securitization Bonds, net</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">314</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Other long-term debt, net</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">18,200</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">62</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:5.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total Long-Term Debt, net</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">18,514</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">63</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total Debt</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">19,124</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">63</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Shareholders&#146; Equity:</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Common stock, $0.01 par value, 1,000,000,000 shares authorized and 641,953,090 shares
outstanding</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">6</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">0</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Additional <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">paid-in</FONT> capital</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">8,836</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">30</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Retained earnings</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1,542</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">5</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:3.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Accumulated other comprehensive loss</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">(30</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">)&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">0</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:5.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total Shareholders&#146; Equity</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">10,354</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">35</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total Capitalization and Short-Term Debt</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">29,478</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">100</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">%&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:3.00px double #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:3.00px double #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:3.00px double #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:3.00px double #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(1)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, the outstanding principal amount of our ZENS was approximately $828&nbsp;million and
the contingent principal amount was approximately $13&nbsp;million. Interest is paid quarterly on the principal amount at 2% per year plus a &#147;pass-through&#148; of any dividend on the reference shares of AT&amp;T Inc. common stock, Charter
Communications, Inc. common stock and Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Series A common stock. At maturity or upon redemption, holders of ZENS will receive cash equal to the higher of the contingent principal amount or the market value of the reference
shares. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-18 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_5"></A>DESCRIPTION OF NOTES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will issue the notes under an indenture, to be dated as of the date of initial issuance of the notes, between us and The Bank of New York
Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee (the &#147;trustee&#148;), as supplemented by a supplemental indenture creating the notes and setting forth the specific terms of the notes (as supplemented, the &#147;indenture&#148;). </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You may request a copy of the indenture from us as described under &#147;Where You Can Find More Information.&#148; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following description is a summary of the material provisions of the notes and the indenture and does not purport to be complete. This
summary is subject to and is qualified by reference to all the provisions of the notes and the indenture, including the definitions of certain terms used in the indenture. We urge you to read these documents because they, and not this description,
define your rights as a holder of the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">For purposes of this description, references to &#147;we,&#148; &#147;our&#148; and
&#147;us&#148; refer only to CenterPoint Energy, Inc. and not to any of its subsidiaries. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>General </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes of each series will constitute a separate series of our subordinated debt securities under the indenture and will be issued in the
aggregate principal amount of $&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;, in the case of the Series A Notes and $&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;, in the case of the Series B Notes, in each case in denominations of $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess
thereof. We may, from time to time, without the consent of the holders of any notes, issue additional notes of either series and any such additional notes shall form a single series under the indenture with the applicable series of notes offered by
this prospectus supplement. Any such additional notes shall have the same form and terms as the applicable series of notes offered by this prospectus supplement (other than the offering price, the date of issuance and, if applicable, the date from
which interest thereon shall begin to accrue and the first interest payment date, and except that the provisions of the notes specifying the rate of interest thereon to but excluding the first reset date shall not be applicable to any such
additional notes whose date of original issuance is on or after the first reset date). </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Interest and Maturity </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Series A Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the date of the original issuance to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2030
at an annual rate of &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2030 during each Series A Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent Series&nbsp;A Reset Interest
Determination Date, plus &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;%. The Series A Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055 (the &#147;Series A Maturity Date&#148;). The Series B Notes will bear interest (i)&nbsp;from and including the date of the original issuance
to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2035 at an annual rate of &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;% and (ii)&nbsp;from and including February&nbsp;15, 2035 during each Series B Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the
most recent Series B Reset Interest Determination Date, plus &#8194;&#8195;&#8195;%. The Series B Notes will mature on February&nbsp;15, 2055 (the &#147;Series B Maturity Date&#148;). Interest on the notes will accrue
from&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;, 2024 and will, subject to our right to defer interest payments (as described below under &#147;&#151;Option to Defer Interest Payments&#148;), be payable semi-annually in arrears on February&nbsp;15 and
August&nbsp;15 of each year (each, an &#147;interest payment date&#148;), beginning on February&nbsp;15, 2025. If interest payments are deferred or otherwise not paid, they will accrue and compound until paid at the same rate at which the applicable
notes bear interest to the extent permitted by law. As permitted by the terms of the notes, if interest payments are deferred or otherwise not paid up to a redemption date that does not fall on an interest payment date, they will accrue and compound
until paid at the same rate at which the notes of the applicable series bear interest to the extent permitted by law. The amount of interest payable for any interest accrual period will be computed on the basis of a
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">360-day</FONT> year consisting of twelve <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">30-day</FONT> months. The amount of interest payable for any period shorter than a full </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-19 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">semi-annual</FONT> period for which interest is computed will be computed on the basis of the number of days in the period using
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">30-day</FONT> calendar months. Each series of notes will be subject to redemption at our option as described below under &#147;&#151;Redemption.&#148; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In this prospectus supplement the term &#147;interest&#148; includes semi-annual interest payments and applicable interest on interest
payments accrued but not paid on the applicable interest payment date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Business Day&#148; means with respect to any note, any day
other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is authorized or required by law or executive order to close or be closed. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless all of the outstanding notes have been redeemed, we will appoint a calculation agent (the &#147;calculation agent&#148;) with respect
to the notes prior to the applicable Reset Interest Determination Date. We or any of our affiliates may assume the duties of the calculation agent. The applicable interest rate for each Interest Reset Period will be determined by the calculation
agent as of the applicable Reset Interest Determination Date. If we or one of our affiliates is not the calculation agent, the calculation agent will notify us of the interest rate for the relevant Interest Reset Period promptly upon such
determination. We will notify the trustee of such interest rate, promptly upon making or being notified of such determination. The calculation agent&#146;s determination of any interest rate and its calculation of the amount of interest for any
Interest Reset Period will be conclusive and binding absent manifest error, will be made in the calculation agent&#146;s sole discretion and, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the documentation relating to the notes, will become effective
without consent from any other person or entity. Such determination of any interest rate and calculation of the amount of interest will be on file at our principal offices and will be made available to any holder of the notes upon request. In no
event shall the trustee be the calculation agent, nor shall it have any liability for any determination made by or on behalf of such calculation agent. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Five-Year Treasury Rate&#148; means, as of any Reset Interest Determination Date, the average of the yields on actively traded United
States Treasury securities adjusted to constant maturity, for five-year maturities, for the most recent five Business Days appearing under the caption &#147;Treasury Constant Maturities&#148; in the most recent H.15. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If the Five-Year Treasury Rate cannot be determined pursuant to the method described above, the calculation agent, after consulting such
sources as it deems comparable to any of the foregoing calculations, or any such source as it deems reasonable from which to estimate the Five-Year Treasury Rate, will determine the Five-Year Treasury Rate in its sole discretion, provided that if
the calculation agent determines there is an industry-accepted successor Five-Year Treasury Rate, then the calculation agent will use such successor rate. If the calculation agent has determined a substitute or successor base rate in accordance with
the foregoing, the calculation agent in its sole discretion may determine the business day convention, the definition of &#147;Business Day&#148; and the Reset Interest Determination Date to be used and any other relevant methodology for calculating
such substitute or successor base rate, including any adjustment factor needed to make such substitute or successor base rate comparable to the Five-Year Treasury Rate, in a manner that is consistent with industry-accepted practices for such
substitute or successor base rate. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;H.15&#148; means the daily statistical release designated as such, or any successor publication
as determined by the calculation agent in its sole discretion, published by the Federal Reserve Board, and &#147;most recent H.15&#148; means the H.15 published closest in time but prior to the close of business on the applicable Reset Interest
Determination Date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Series A Reset Date&#148; means February&nbsp;15, 2030 and each date falling on the five-year anniversary of
the preceding Series A Reset Date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Series B Reset Date&#148; means February&nbsp;15, 2035 and each date falling on the five-year
anniversary of the preceding Series B Reset Date. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-20 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Series A Interest Reset Period&#148; means the period from and including
February&nbsp;15, 2030 to but excluding the next following Series A Reset Date and thereafter each period from and including a Series A Reset Date to but excluding the next following Series A Reset Date, or the maturity date or date of redemption,
as the case may be. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Series B Interest Reset Period&#148; means the period from and including February&nbsp;15, 2035 to but
excluding the next following Series B Reset Date and thereafter each period from and including a Series B Reset Date to but excluding the next following Series B Reset Date, or the maturity date or date of redemption, as the case may be. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Reset Interest Determination Date&#148; means, in respect of any Series A Interest Reset Period or Series B Interest Reset Period, the
day falling two Business Days prior to the beginning of the applicable Series A Interest Reset Period or Series B Interest Reset Period. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Interest will be paid to the person in whose name a note is registered at the close of business on February&nbsp;1 or August&nbsp;1 (whether
or not a business day), as the case may be, immediately preceding the relevant interest payment date (each, a &#147;regular record date&#148;). Interest on the notes will be computed on the basis of a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">360-day</FONT>
year composed of twelve <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">30-day</FONT> months and, for partial months, on the basis of the number of days actually elapsed in a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">30-day</FONT> month. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If any interest payment date, a maturity date or a redemption date falls on a day that is not a business day, the required payment will be
made on the next succeeding business day with the same force and effect as if made on such scheduled payment date, and no interest on such payment will accrue in respect of the delay. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Option to Defer Interest Payments </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">So
long as no event of default (as defined below under &#147;&#151;Events of Default&#148;) with respect to the applicable series of notes has occurred and is continuing, we may, at our option, defer interest payments on a given series of notes on one
or more occasions, from time to time, for up to 20 consecutive semi-annual interest payment periods (as defined below) (each such deferral period, which will commence on the interest payment date on which the first such deferred interest payment
otherwise would have been made, a &#147;Series A Optional Deferral Period&#148; or a &#147;Series B Optional Deferral Period&#148; and together, an &#147;optional deferral period&#148;), except that no such optional deferral period may extend beyond
the maturity date of the applicable series of notes or end on a day other than the day immediately preceding an interest payment date, and we may not begin a new Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable,
and may not pay current interest on the applicable series of the notes until we have paid all accrued interest on such series of notes from the previous Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we defer interest for a period of 20 consecutive interest payment periods from the commencement of an optional deferral period, we will be
required to pay all accrued and unpaid interest at the conclusion of the 20&nbsp;consecutive interest payment periods. If we fail to pay in full all accrued and unpaid interest at the conclusion of the 20 consecutive interest payment periods, and
such failure continues for 30 days, an event of default that gives rise to acceleration of principal and interest on the notes will occur under the indenture. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">During any optional deferral period, interest on the notes of a given series will continue to accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on
such series of notes. In addition, during any optional deferral period, interest on the deferred interest (&#147;compound interest&#148;) will accrue at the then-applicable interest rate on the notes of such series, compounded semi-annually, to the
extent permitted by applicable law. No interest will be due and payable on the notes until the end of the optional deferral period except upon a redemption of the notes during the optional deferral period. The interest payment date falling
immediately after the last day of an optional deferral period shall not be deemed to fall on a day during such optional deferral period. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-21 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">No interest will be due or payable on the notes of a given series during any such optional
deferral period, except upon a redemption of any notes of such series on any redemption date during such optional deferral period (in which case all accrued and unpaid interest (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound
interest) on the notes of such series to be redeemed to, but excluding, such redemption date will be due and payable on such redemption date), or unless the principal of and interest on the notes of such series shall have been declared due and
payable as the result of an event of default with respect to the notes of such series (in which case all accrued and unpaid interest, including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest, on the notes shall become due and
payable). </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">All references in the notes and, insofar as relates to the notes, the indenture, to &#147;interest&#148; on the notes shall be
deemed to include any such deferred interest and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Before the end of any optional deferral period that is shorter than 20 consecutive interest payment periods, we may elect, at our option, to
extend such optional deferral period, so long as the entire optional deferral period does not exceed 20 consecutive interest payment periods or extend beyond the maturity date of the notes of the applicable series. We may also elect, at our option,
to shorten the length of any optional deferral period. No optional deferral period (including as extended or shortened) may end on a day other than the day immediately preceding an interest payment date. At the end of any optional deferral period,
if all amounts then due on the notes of the applicable series, including all accrued and unpaid interest thereon (including, without limitation and to the extent permitted by applicable law, any deferred interest and any compound interest), are
paid, we may elect to begin a new optional deferral period; <I>provided</I>, <I>however</I>, that, without limitation of the foregoing, we may not begin a new Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable,
unless we have paid all accrued and unpaid interest on such series of notes (including, without limitation and to the extent permitted by applicable law, any deferred interest and any compound interest) from any previous optional deferral period.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">During any optional deferral period, CenterPoint Energy (and its majority-owned subsidiaries, as applicable) will not do any of the
following (subject to the exceptions set forth in the next succeeding paragraph): </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">declare or pay any dividends or distributions on any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock (as defined
below); </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">redeem, purchase, acquire or make a liquidation payment with respect to any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital
stock; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">pay any principal, interest (to the extent such interest is deferrable) or premium on, or repay, repurchase or
redeem any of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s indebtedness that ranks equally with or junior to the notes in right of payment (including debt securities of other series, such as the other series of the notes offered hereby); or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">make any payments with respect to any guarantees by CenterPoint Energy of any indebtedness if such guarantees
rank equally with or junior to the notes in right of payment. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">However, during an optional deferral period, the
exceptions will permit (a)&nbsp;purchases, redemptions or other acquisitions of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock in connection with any employment contract, benefit plan or other similar arrangement with or for the benefit of employees,
officers, directors, agents, consultants or a stock purchase, dividend reinvestment or similar plan, or the satisfaction of our obligations pursuant to any contract or security outstanding on the date that the payment of interest is deferred
requiring us to purchase, redeem or acquire CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock, (b)&nbsp;any payment, repayment, redemption, purchase, acquisition or declaration of a dividend as a result of any reclassification of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s
capital stock or the exchange or conversion of all or a portion of one class or series of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock for another class or series of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock, (c)&nbsp;the purchase of fractional interests
in shares of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock pursuant to the conversion or exchange provisions of such capital stock or the security </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-22 </P>

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being converted or exchanged or in connection with the settlement of stock purchase contracts, (d)&nbsp;dividends, payments or distributions payable in shares of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital
stock (or rights to acquire CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock), or purchases, redemptions or acquisitions of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock in connection with the issuance or exchange of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock (or of
securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of CenterPoint Energy&#146;s capital stock) and distributions in connection with the settlement of stock purchase contracts outstanding on the date that the payment of interest is deferred,
(e)&nbsp;redemptions, exchanges, acquisitions or repurchases of, or with respect to, any rights outstanding under any employment contract, incentive plan, benefit plan or similar arrangement of ours or our subsidiaries or in connection with a
dividend reinvestment or stock purchase plan, in each case outstanding on the date that the payment of interest is deferred or the declaration or payment thereunder of a dividend or distribution of or with respect to rights in the future,
(f)&nbsp;implementing a shareholder rights plan, or issuing rights, stock or other property under such plan, or any redemption, repurchase or acquisition of any such rights pursuant thereto or (g)&nbsp;settling conversion of any convertible notes
that rank equally with the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will give The Depository Trust Company (&#147;DTC&#148;), the holders of the notes of the applicable
series and the trustee written notice of our election of, or any shortening or extension of, an optional deferral period at least 15 business days prior to the earlier of (1)&nbsp;each next succeeding interest payment date or (2)&nbsp;the date upon
which we are required to give notice to any applicable self-regulatory organization or to holders of the notes of the applicable series of the next succeeding interest payment date or the regular record date therefor. The record date for the payment
of deferred interest and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest payable on the interest payment date immediately following the last day of an optional deferral period will be the regular record date with respect to such
interest payment date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Capital stock&#148; means (i)&nbsp;in the case of a corporation or a company, corporate stock or shares;
(ii)&nbsp;in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock; (iii)&nbsp;in the case of a partnership or limited liability company,
partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and (iv)&nbsp;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. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Interest payment period&#148; means the semi-annual period from, and including, an interest payment date to, but excluding,
the next succeeding interest payment date, except for the first interest payment period, which shall be the period from, and including, &#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;,&nbsp;2024 to, but excluding, February&nbsp;15, 2025. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Ranking </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes will be our unsecured
obligations and will rank junior and subordinate in right of payment to the prior payment in full of our existing and future Senior Indebtedness (as defined below under &#147;&#151;Subordination&#148;), to the extent and in the manner set forth
under the caption &#147;&#151;Subordination&#148; below. The notes will rank equally in right of payment with (x)&nbsp;our existing ZENS, (y)&nbsp;for a given series of the notes, the notes of the other series and (z)&nbsp;any future unsecured
indebtedness that we may incur from time to time if the terms of such indebtedness provide that it ranks equally with the notes in right of payment. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As of June&nbsp;30, 2024, we, on an unconsolidated basis, had approximately $5.4&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of indebtedness
outstanding, of which an aggregate of $4.5&nbsp;billion was Senior Indebtedness, and an aggregate of $828&nbsp;million was our existing ZENS (with which the notes will rank equally in right of payment). Excluding subsidiaries issuing Securitization
Bonds, as of June&nbsp;30, 2024, our subsidiaries had approximately $13.5&nbsp;billion aggregate principal amount of third-party indebtedness outstanding, of which approximately $8.9&nbsp;billion was secured, as well as other liabilities. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-23 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Subordination </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes will be subordinated in right of payment to the prior payment in full of all our Senior Indebtedness. This means that upon: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(a)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">any payment by, or distribution of the assets of, us upon our dissolution,
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">winding-up,</FONT> liquidation or reorganization, whether voluntary or involuntary or in bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or other proceedings; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(b)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">a failure to pay any interest, principal or other monetary amounts due on any of our Senior Indebtedness when
due and continuance of that default beyond any applicable grace period; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">(c)</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="left">acceleration of the maturity of any of our Senior Indebtedness as a result of a default; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">the holders of all of Senior Indebtedness will be entitled to receive: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">in the case of clause (a)&nbsp;above, payment of all amounts due or to become due on all Senior Indebtedness; or
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">in the case of clauses (b)&nbsp;and (c) above, payment of all amounts due on all Senior Indebtedness,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">before the holders of the notes are entitled to receive any payment. So long as any of the events in clauses (a), (b), or
(c)&nbsp;above has occurred and is continuing, any amounts payable or assets distributable on the notes will instead be paid or distributed, as the case may be, directly to the holders of Senior Indebtedness to the extent necessary to pay, in the
case of clause (a)&nbsp;above, all amounts due or to become due upon all such Senior Indebtedness, or, in the case of clauses (b)&nbsp;and (c) above, all amounts due on all such Senior Indebtedness, and, if any such payment or distribution is
received by the trustee under the indenture or the holders of any of the notes before all Senior Indebtedness due and to become due or due, as applicable, is paid, such payment or distribution must be paid over to the holders of the unpaid Senior
Indebtedness. Subject to paying the Senior Indebtedness due and to become due in the case of clause (a)&nbsp;or the Senior Indebtedness due in the case of clauses (b)&nbsp;and (c), the holders of the notes will be subrogated to the rights of the
holders of such Senior Indebtedness to receive payments or distributions of our assets applicable to such Senior Indebtedness until the notes are paid in full. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Senior Indebtedness&#148; means the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on and all other amounts due in connection with all
Indebtedness of us whether created, incurred or assumed before, on or after the date of the indenture; <I>provided</I> that such Senior Indebtedness shall not include (i)&nbsp;Indebtedness of us to any of our subsidiaries, (ii)&nbsp;our Trade
Payables, (iii)&nbsp;our Indebtedness that, when incurred and without respect to any election under Section&nbsp;1111(b) of Title 11 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, was without recourse to us, and (iv)&nbsp;any other Indebtedness
of us which by the terms of the instrument creating or evidencing the same is specifically designated as being subordinated to or <I>pari passu</I> with the notes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Guarantee&#148; means any obligation, contingent or otherwise, of any Person directly or indirectly guaranteeing any Indebtedness or
other obligation of any other Person and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, any obligation, direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, of such Person (i)&nbsp;to purchase or pay (or advance or supply funds for the purchase or
payment of) such Indebtedness or other obligation of such other Person (whether arising by virtue of partnership arrangements, or by agreement to keep well, to purchase assets, goods, securities or services, to <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">take-or-pay,</FONT></FONT> or to maintain financial statement conditions or otherwise) or (ii)&nbsp;entered into for purposes of assuring in any other manner the obligee of such Indebtedness of other obligation of the
payment thereof or to protect such obligee against loss in respect thereof (in whole or in part); <I>provided</I> that the term &#147;Guarantee&#148; shall not include endorsements for collection or deposit in the ordinary course of business. The
term &#147;Guarantee&#148; used as a verb has a corresponding meaning. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Indebtedness&#148; means, with respect to any Person at any
date of determination (without duplication), (i) all indebtedness of such Person for borrowed money, (ii)&nbsp;all obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments, including obligations incurred in
connection with the acquisition </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-24 </P>

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of property, assets or businesses, (iii)&nbsp;all obligations of such Person in respect of letters of credit or bankers&#146; acceptances or other similar instruments (or reimbursement
obligations thereto) issued on the account of such Person, (iv)&nbsp;all obligations of such Person to pay the deferred purchase price of property or services, except Trade Payables, (v)&nbsp;all obligations of such Person as lessee under
capitalized leases, (vi)&nbsp;all Indebtedness of others secured by a Lien on any asset of such Person, whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person; <I>provided</I> that, for purposes of determining the amount of any Indebtedness of
the type described in this clause (vi), if recourse with respect to such Indebtedness is limited to such asset, the amount of such Indebtedness shall be limited to the lesser of the fair market value of such asset or the amount of such Indebtedness,
(vii)&nbsp;all Indebtedness of others Guaranteed by such Person to the extent such Indebtedness is Guaranteed by such Person, and (viii)&nbsp;to the extent not otherwise included in this definition, all obligations of such Person for claims in
respect of derivative products, including interest rate, foreign exchange rate and commodity prices, forward contracts, options, swaps, collars and similar arrangements. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Lien&#148; means, with respect to any property, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind in
respect of such property. For purposes of the indenture, we shall be deemed to own subject to a Lien any property which we have acquired or hold subject to the interest of a vendor or lessor under any conditional sale agreement, capital lease or
other title retention agreement relating to such property. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Person&#148; means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint
venture, trust, unincorporated organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">&#147;Trade Payables&#148;
means, with respect to any Person, any accounts payable or any other indebtedness or monetary obligation to trade creditors created, assumed or Guaranteed by such Person or any of its subsidiaries arising in the ordinary course of business in
connection with the acquisition of goods or services. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Due to the subordination of the notes, if our assets are distributed upon our
dissolution, <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">winding-up,</FONT> liquidation or reorganization, holders of our Senior Indebtedness and other indebtedness and obligations that are not equal or junior to the notes in right of payment will likely
recover more, ratably, than holders of the notes, and it is possible that no payments will be made to the holders of the notes. The subordination provisions described above will cease to apply in the event of satisfaction and discharge of the notes
as described under &#147;&#151;Discharge.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes and the indenture do not limit our ability to incur Senior Indebtedness or our
or any of our subsidiaries&#146; ability to incur other secured and unsecured indebtedness, preferred equity or other liabilities. We expect that we and our subsidiaries will incur substantial additional amounts of indebtedness, including Senior
Indebtedness, in the future. For additional information, see &#147;Risk Factors&#148; in this prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Redemption </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Except as described under this &#147;&#151;Redemption&#148; section, we may not redeem the notes of a given series prior to the maturity date.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Optional Redemption </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may
redeem the Series A Notes in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Series A Notes being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date (i)&nbsp;on any day in the period
commencing on the date falling 90 days prior to the first Series A Reset Date and ending on and including the first Series A Reset Date and (ii)&nbsp;after the first Series A Reset Date, on any interest payment date. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may redeem the Series B Notes in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Series B Notes being
redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-25 </P>

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date (i)&nbsp;on any day in the period commencing on the date falling 90 days prior to the first Series B Reset Date and ending on and including the first Series B Reset Date and (ii)&nbsp;after
the first Series B Reset Date, on any interest payment date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Redemption Following a Tax Event </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may, at our option, redeem the notes of the applicable series, in whole but not in part, at the redemption price equal to the sum of: (1)
100% of the principal amount of the notes being redeemed plus (2)&nbsp;accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the tax event redemption date. In such case, we will deliver a notice of redemption specifying the tax event redemption date within
120 days after the occurrence of a tax event with respect to such series. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">A &#147;tax event&#148; means that we have received a written
opinion of a nationally recognized accounting firm or counsel experienced in such matters to the effect that, as a result of: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any amendment to, clarification of, or change, including any announced prospective change, in the laws or
treaties of the United States or any of its political subdivisions or taxing authorities, or any regulations under those laws or treaties; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an administrative action, which means any judicial decision or any official administrative pronouncement, ruling,
regulatory procedure, notice or announcement, including any notice or announcement of intent to issue or adopt any administrative pronouncement, ruling, regulatory procedure or regulation; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any amendment to, clarification of, or change in the official position or the interpretation of any
administrative action or judicial decision or any interpretation or pronouncement that provides for a position with respect to an administrative action or judicial decision that differs from the previously generally accepted position, in each case
by any legislative body, court, governmental authority or regulatory body, regardless of the time or manner in which that amendment, clarification or change is introduced or made known; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a threatened challenge asserted in writing in connection with a tax audit of us or any of our subsidiaries, or a
publicly-known threatened challenge asserted in writing against any other taxpayer that has raised capital through the issuance of securities that are substantially similar to the notes, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">which amendment, clarification or change is effective or the administrative action is taken or judicial decision, interpretation or
pronouncement is issued or threatened challenge is asserted or becomes publicly-known after the date of this prospectus supplement, there is more than an insubstantial risk that interest payable by us on the applicable series of notes is not
deductible, or within 90 days would not be deductible, in whole or in part, by us for United States federal income tax purposes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Redemption
Following a Rating Agency Event </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may, at our option, redeem the notes of the applicable series, in whole but not in part, at
102% of the principal amount of the applicable series, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date, at any time within 120 days after the occurrence of a rating agency event with respect to such series. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">A &#147;rating agency event&#148; means, as of any date, a change, clarification or amendment in the methodology in assigning equity credit to
securities such as the notes published by any nationally recognized statistical rating organization within the meaning of Section&nbsp;3(a)(62) of the Exchange Act (or any successor provision thereto) that then publishes a rating for us (together
with any successor thereto, a &#147;rating agency&#148;), (a) as such methodology was in effect on the date of this prospectus supplement, in the case of any rating agency that published a rating for us as of the date of this prospectus supplement,
or (b)&nbsp;as such methodology was in effect on the date such rating agency first published a rating for us, in the case of any rating agency that first publishes a </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-26 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
rating for us after the date of this prospectus supplement (in the case of either clause (a)&nbsp;or (b), the &#147;current methodology&#148;), that results in (i)&nbsp;any shortening of the
length of time for which a particular level of equity credit pertaining to the notes by such rating agency would have been in effect had the current methodology not been changed, clarified or amended or (ii)&nbsp;a lower equity credit (including up
to a lesser amount) being assigned by such rating agency to the notes of the applicable series as of the date of such change, clarification or amendment than the equity credit that would have been assigned to the notes of the applicable series by
such rating agency had the current methodology not been changed, clarified or amended. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Redemption Procedures; Cancellation of Redemption
</I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Notwithstanding any statement under this caption &#147;&#151;Redemption&#148; to the contrary, during an optional deferral period,
interest will continue to accrue on the notes of the applicable series, and deferred interest payments will accrue additional interest on a semi-annual basis at a rate equal to the interest rate then-applicable to such series of notes (including, to
the extent permitted by applicable law, any compound interest). No interest will be due and payable on the notes until the end of the optional deferral period except upon a redemption of the notes during the optional deferral period. The interest
payment date falling immediately after the last day of a Series A Optional Deferral Period or Series B Optional Deferral Period, as applicable, shall not be deemed to fall on a day during such optional deferral period. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Notice of redemption will be mailed or otherwise delivered at least 10 days but not more than 60 days before the redemption date to each
registered holder of the notes of a given series to be redeemed, at the address of such holder appearing in the register of the notes maintained by the registrar. Once notice of redemption is delivered, the notes of a given series called for
redemption will become due and payable on the redemption date at the applicable redemption price, plus, subject to the terms described in the immediately preceding paragraph, accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date, and
will be paid upon surrender thereof for redemption, unless (a)&nbsp;the notice of redemption provides that such redemption shall be subject to the condition described in the next succeeding paragraph and (b)&nbsp;such redemption shall have been
canceled in accordance with the provisions of the next succeeding paragraph because such condition shall not have been satisfied. If only part of a note of a given series is redeemed, the trustee will issue in the name of the registered holder of
the note and deliver to such holder a new note in a principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion of the principal of the note surrendered for redemption. If we elect to redeem all or a portion of the notes of a given series, then, unless
otherwise provided in such notice of redemption as described in the next succeeding paragraph, the redemption will not be conditional upon receipt by the paying agent or the trustee of monies sufficient to pay the redemption price. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If, at the time a notice of redemption is given, (i)&nbsp;we have not effected satisfaction and discharge or defeasance of the notes of a
given series as described under &#147;&#151;Discharge&#148; below and (ii)&nbsp;such notice of redemption is not being given in connection with or in order to effect satisfaction and discharge or defeasance of the notes of the applicable series,
then, if the notice of redemption so provides and at our option, the redemption may be subject to the condition that the trustee shall have received, on or before the applicable redemption date, monies in an amount sufficient to pay the redemption
price and accrued and unpaid interest on the notes called for redemption to, but excluding, the redemption date. If monies in such amount are not received by the trustee on or before such redemption date, such notice of redemption shall be
automatically canceled and of no force or effect, such proposed redemption shall be automatically canceled and we shall not be required to redeem the notes called for redemption on such redemption date. In the event that a redemption is canceled, we
will, not later than the business day immediately following the proposed redemption date, deliver, or cause to be delivered, notice of such cancellation to the registered holders of the notes of the applicable series called for redemption (which
notice will also indicate that any notes or portions thereof surrendered for redemption shall be returned to the applicable holders), and we will direct the trustee to, and the trustee will, promptly return any notes or portions thereof that have
been surrendered for redemption to the applicable holders. Unless we default in payment of the redemption price or the proposed redemption is canceled in accordance with the provisions set forth in this paragraph, on and after the redemption date
interest will cease to accrue on the notes of the applicable series or portions thereof called for redemption. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-27 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If less than all of the notes of a series are redeemed at any time, the trustee will select
the notes or any portions thereof in integral multiples of $1,000 to be redeemed, by lot and, when the notes are in the form of global securities, in accordance with the applicable procedures of DTC. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to the foregoing and to applicable law (including, without limitation, United States federal securities laws), we or our affiliates
may, at any time and from time to time, purchase outstanding notes by tender, in the open market or by private agreement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Consolidation, Merger and
Sale of Assets </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture will provide that we shall not consolidate with or merge with or into, or sell, convey, transfer or lease
all or substantially all of the consolidated properties and assets of us and our subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to, another person (other than any such sale, conveyance, transfer or lease to one or more of our direct or indirect wholly owned
subsidiaries), unless (i)&nbsp;the resulting, surviving or transferee person (if not us) is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, and such corporation (if
not us) expressly assumes by supplemental indenture all of our obligations under the notes and the indenture; and (ii)&nbsp;immediately after giving effect to such transaction, no default or event of default has occurred and is continuing under the
indenture. In addition, in connection with any such transaction, we will deliver to the trustee an officer&#146;s certificate and an opinion of counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger, sale, conveyance, transfer or lease and, if a
supplemental indenture is required in connection with such transaction, such supplemental indenture complies with the indenture and that all conditions precedent contained in the indenture relating to such transaction have been complied with. Upon
any such consolidation, merger or sale, conveyance, transfer or lease, the resulting, surviving or transferee person (if not us) shall succeed to, and may exercise every right and power of, ours under the indenture, and we shall be discharged from
our obligations under the notes and the indenture except in the case of any such lease. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Events of Default </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">An &#147;event of default&#148; occurs with respect to each series of notes if: </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(1) we do not pay any interest on any note of such series when it becomes due and payable and such default continues for 30 days (regardless
of whether such payment is prohibited by the subordination provisions applicable to the notes of such series), except as the result of a deferral of interest payments in accordance with the provisions described above under &#147;&#151;Option to
Defer Interest Payments&#148;; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(2) we do not pay any principal of or premium, if any, on any note of such series when it becomes due and
payable (regardless of whether such payment is prohibited by the subordination provisions applicable to the notes of such series); </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(3) we
remain in breach of any other covenant in the indenture or the notes of the applicable series for 60 days after there has been given to us a written notice of default (which notice must be sent by either the trustee or registered holders of at least
33% of the principal amount of the <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">then-outstanding</FONT> notes of a series) specifying such default or breach and requiring remedy of the default or breach; or </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(4) we file for bankruptcy or other specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or reorganization with respect to us. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If an event of default, other than an event of default described in clause (3)&nbsp;above, occurs and is continuing with respect to a series
of notes, then either the trustee or the registered holders of at least 33% of the principal amount of the <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">then-outstanding</FONT> notes of such series may declare the principal amount of all of the notes of such
series, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to be due and payable immediately. See &#147;Risk Factors&#151;Risks Related to the Notes&#151;Holders of each series of the notes will have limited rights of acceleration&#148; above.
However, they may exercise the other rights and remedies available under the indenture and under applicable law upon the occurrence of an event of default. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-28 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This right does not apply if an event of default described in clause (3)&nbsp;above occurs.
If one of the events of default described in clause (3)&nbsp;above occurs and is continuing, neither the trustee nor the registered holders of the notes of such series will be entitled to declare the principal amount of all notes of such series,
together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to be due and payable immediately. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">A valid utilization of an optional deferral period
by us as contemplated in the indenture shall not constitute a default in the payment of interest giving rise to an event of default. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If,
at any time after the principal of notes shall have been so declared due and payable, and before any judgment or decree for the payment of monies due shall have been obtained or entered, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the
outstanding notes of such series may, by written notice to us and the trustee, waive all past defaults (except with respect to (i)&nbsp;any continuing defaults relating to nonpayment of principal or interest or (ii)&nbsp;a default in respect of a
covenant or provision which under the indenture cannot be modified or amended without the consent of the holder of the notes of such series affected) and rescind any such acceleration with respect to the notes and its consequences if
(i)&nbsp;rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction and (ii)&nbsp;all existing events of default, other than the nonpayment of the principal of and interest on the notes of such series that have
become due solely by such declaration of acceleration, have been cured or waived. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to the provisions of the indenture relating to
the duties of the trustee, if an event of default occurs and is continuing, the trustee will 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 and provided to the trustee indemnity and/or security satisfactory to it against any loss, claim, liability or expense (including reasonable attorney&#146;s fees and expenses). Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal
or interest when due, no holder may pursue any remedy with respect to the indenture or the notes unless: </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(1) such holder has previously
given the trustee written notice that an event of default for such series is continuing; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(2) holders of at least 33% in principal amount
of the outstanding notes of such series have requested the trustee to pursue the remedy; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(3) such holders have offered the trustee
security or indemnity reasonably satisfactory to it against any loss, claim, liability or expense (including reasonable attorney&#146;s fees and expenses); </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(4) the trustee has not complied with such request within 60 days after the receipt of the request and the offer of such security or
indemnity; and </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(5) the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding notes of such series have not given the trustee a
direction that, in the opinion of the trustee, is inconsistent with such request within such <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">60-day</FONT> period. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to certain restrictions, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding notes of such series 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. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture will provide that in the event an event of default has occurred and is continuing under such indenture of which a responsible
officer of the trustee has written notice, the trustee will be required in the exercise of its powers to use the degree of care that a prudent person would use in the conduct of its own affairs. 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 (it being understood that the trustee does not have an affirmative duty to ascertain whether or not any such
direction is unduly prejudicial to the rights of another holder) or that would involve the trustee in personal liability. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-29 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture will provide that if a default occurs and is continuing and a responsible
officer of the trustee is notified in writing, the trustee must deliver to each holder notice of the default within 90 days after it receives written notice. Except in the case of a default in the payment of principal of or interest on any note, the
trustee may withhold notice if and so long as it determines that withholding notice is in the interests of the holders. In addition, we are required to deliver to the trustee, within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year, an officers&#146;
certificate indicating whether the signers thereof know of any event of default under the indenture that occurred during the previous year. We are also required to deliver to the trustee, within 30 days after obtaining knowledge of the occurrence
thereof, written notice of any events which would constitute certain defaults, their status and what action we are taking or proposing to take in respect thereof; <I>provided</I> that we are not required to deliver such notice if such default has
been cured. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Payments of the redemption price, principal and interest that are not made when due will accrue interest per annum at the
then-applicable interest rate from the required payment date. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Modification and Amendment </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to certain exceptions, the indenture or the notes may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the holders of at least a majority
in principal amount of the notes <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">then-outstanding</FONT> (including without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a repurchase of, or tender or exchange offer for, notes) and, subject to certain
exceptions, any past default or compliance with any provisions may be waived with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of the notes <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">then-outstanding.</FONT> However, without the consent of
each holder of an outstanding note affected, no amendment or supplement may, among other things: </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(1) reduce the principal amount of notes
whose holders must consent to an amendment; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(2) reduce the rate of or extend the stated time for payment of interest on any note beyond
the maximum time period for any permitted deferral of interest or to increase the maximum time period for any such interest deferral or increase the maximum number of times we may defer such interest payment; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(3) reduce the principal of or extend the stated maturity of any note; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(4) reduce the redemption price of any note or amend or modify in any manner adverse to the holders of notes our obligation to make such
payments, whether through an amendment or waiver of provisions in the covenants, definitions or otherwise; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(5) make any note payable in
money, or at a place of payment, other than that stated in the note; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(6) change the subordination provisions applicable to the notes in a
manner adverse to holders; or </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(7) make any change in the amendment provisions that require each holder&#146;s consent or in the waiver
provisions. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Without the consent of any holder, we and the trustee may amend or supplement the indenture or the notes to, among other things: </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(1) cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(2) provide for the assumption by a successor corporation of our obligations under the indenture as described above under the heading
&#147;&#151;Consolidation, Merger and Sale of Assets&#148;; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(3) add guarantees with respect to the notes; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(4) secure the notes; </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-30 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(5) add to our covenants or events of default for the benefit of the holders or surrender
any right or power conferred upon us; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(6) make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any holder, as determined by us in
good faith; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(7) conform the provisions of the indenture or the notes to the &#147;Description of Notes&#148; section in the preliminary
prospectus supplement, as supplemented by the related pricing term sheet and as evidenced in an officer&#146;s certificate; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(8) comply
with the rules of any applicable securities depositary, including DTC, so long as such amendment does not adversely affect the rights of any holder in any material respect; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(9) appoint a successor trustee with respect to the notes; or </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">(10) provide for the acceptance of appointment by a successor trustee, security registrar or paying agent to facilitate the administration of
the trusts under the indenture by more than one trustee. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders do not need to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment. It
will be sufficient if such holders approve the substance of the proposed amendment. After an amendment under the indenture becomes effective, we are required to deliver to the holders (with a copy to the trustee) a notice briefly describing such
amendment. However, the failure to give such notice to all the holders (with a copy to the trustee), or any defect in the notice, will not impair or affect the validity of the amendment. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Discharge </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may satisfy and discharge
our obligations under the indenture and the notes of a given series by delivering to the trustee for cancellation all outstanding notes of such series or by depositing with the trustee or delivering to the holders, as applicable, after the notes
have become due and payable, whether at maturity, at any redemption date, or otherwise, cash sufficient to pay all of the outstanding notes of such series and paying all other sums payable under the indenture by us. Such discharge is subject to
terms contained in the indenture. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Agreement to Certain Tax Treatment </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We and each holder and beneficial owner of the notes will, by accepting the notes or a beneficial interest therein, be deemed to have agreed
that the holder or beneficial owner intends that the notes constitute debt and will treat the notes as debt for United States federal, state and local tax purposes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>No Sinking Fund </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes will not be
entitled to the benefit of any sinking fund. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>No Listing </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Each series of notes is a new issue of securities with no established trading market. No application is being or is intended to be made for the
listing or trading of either series of notes on any securities exchange or trading facility or to include either series in any automated quotation system. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Trustee </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Bank of New York Mellon
Trust Company, N.A. is the trustee, security registrar and paying agent under the notes and the indenture. The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., in each of its capacities, </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-31 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
including without limitation as trustee, security registrar and paying agent, assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information concerning us or our affiliates or any
other party contained in this document or the related documents or for any failure by us or any other party to disclose events that may have occurred and may affect the significance or accuracy of such information. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We maintain and may in the future maintain banking relationships in the ordinary course of business with the trustee and its affiliates. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Because The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. is the trustee under a senior indenture, it may be required to resign as trustee under
one of the indentures if there is an event of default under an indenture. We may appoint an alternative trustee for any series of debt securities. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Governing Law </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The indenture will provide
that it and the notes, and any claim, controversy or dispute arising under or related to the indenture or the notes, will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Book-Entry, Settlement and Clearance </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Global Notes
</I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes will be initially issued in the form of one or more registered notes in global form, without interest coupons (the
&#147;global notes&#148;). Upon issuance, each of the global notes will be deposited with the trustee as custodian for DTC and registered in the name of Cede&nbsp;&amp; Co., as nominee of DTC. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Ownership of beneficial interests in a global note will be limited to persons who have accounts with DTC (&#147;DTC participants&#148;) or
persons who hold interests through DTC participants. We expect that under procedures established by DTC: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">upon deposit of a global note with DTC&#146;s custodian, DTC will credit portions of the principal amount of the
global note to the accounts of the DTC participants designated by the underwriters; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">ownership of beneficial interests in a global note will be shown on, and transfer of ownership of those interests
will be effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to interests of DTC participants) and the records of DTC participants (with respect to other owners of beneficial interests in the global note). </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Beneficial interests in global notes may not be exchanged for notes in physical, certificated form except in the limited circumstances
described below. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Book-Entry Procedures for Global Notes </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">All interests in the global notes will be subject to the operations and procedures of DTC and, therefore, you must allow for sufficient time in
order to comply with these procedures if you wish to exercise any of your rights with respect to the notes. We provide the following summary of those operations and procedures solely for the convenience of investors. The operations and procedures of
DTC are controlled by that settlement system and may be changed at any time. None of us, the underwriters or the trustee are responsible for those operations or procedures. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">DTC has advised us that it is: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a limited purpose trust company organized under the laws of the State of New York; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-32 </P>

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<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a &#147;banking organization&#148; within the meaning of the New York State Banking Law; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a member of the Federal Reserve System; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a &#147;clearing corporation&#148; within the meaning of the Uniform Commercial Code; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a &#147;clearing agency&#148; registered under Section&nbsp;17A of the Exchange Act. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">DTC was created to hold securities for its participants and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions between its
participants through electronic book-entry changes to the accounts of its participants. DTC&#146;s participants include securities brokers and dealers, including the underwriters; banks and trust companies; clearing corporations and other
organizations. Indirect access to DTC&#146;s system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies; these indirect participants clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC participant, either
directly or indirectly. Investors who are not DTC participants may beneficially own securities held by or on behalf of DTC only through DTC participants or indirect participants in DTC. Investors may hold interests in the notes offered hereby
through DTC if they are participants in DTC or indirectly through organizations that are participants in DTC, including Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V., as operator of the Euroclear system, or Clearstream Banking, soci&eacute;t&eacute; anonyme, Luxembourg
(&#147;Clearstream&#148;). </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">So long as DTC&#146;s nominee is the registered owner of a global note, that nominee will be considered the
sole owner or holder of the notes represented by that global note for all purposes under the indenture. Except as provided below, owners of beneficial interests in a global note: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">will not be entitled to have notes represented by the global note registered in their names;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">will not receive or be entitled to receive physical, certificated notes; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">will not be considered the owners or holders of the notes under the indenture for any purpose, including with
respect to the giving of any direction, instruction or approval to the trustee under the indenture. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As a result, each
investor who owns a beneficial interest in a global note must rely on the procedures of DTC to exercise any rights of a holder of notes under the indenture for the notes (and, if the investor is not a participant or an indirect participant in DTC,
on the procedures of the DTC participant through which the investor owns its interest). Neither we nor the trustee or paying agent has any responsibility or liability for any act or omission of DTC. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Payments of principal and interest with respect to the notes represented by a global note will be made by the trustee to DTC&#146;s nominee as
the registered holder of the global note. Neither we nor the trustee (including in its capacity as paying agent) will have any responsibility or liability for the payment of amounts to owners of beneficial interests in a global note, for any aspect
of the records relating to or payments made on account of those interests by DTC, or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records of DTC relating to those interests. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Payments by participants and indirect participants in DTC to the owners of beneficial interests in a global note will be governed by standing
instructions and customary industry practice and will be the responsibility of those participants or indirect participants and DTC. Neither we nor the trustee (nor our or its agents) will be liable for any delay by DTC or any of its participants in
identifying the beneficial owners of the notes, and we and the trustee may conclusively rely on and will be protected in relying on instructions from DTC or its nominee for all purposes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Transfers between participants in DTC will be effected under DTC&#146;s procedures and will be settled in
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">same-day</FONT> funds. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-33 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Certificated Notes </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Notes in physical, certificated form will be issued and delivered to each person that DTC identifies as a beneficial owner of the related notes
only if: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">DTC notifies us at any time that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for the global notes and a
successor depositary is not appointed within 90 days; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">DTC ceases to be registered as a clearing agency under the Exchange Act and a successor depositary is not
appointed within 90 days; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an event of default with respect to the notes has occurred and is continuing and such beneficial owner requests
that its notes be issued in physical, certificated form. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In connection with any proposed transfer outside the Book
Entry Only system, there shall be provided to the trustee all information necessary to allow the trustee to comply with any applicable tax reporting obligations, including without limitation any cost basis reporting obligations under Internal
Revenue Code Section&nbsp;6045. The trustee may rely on the information provided to it and shall have no responsibility to verify or ensure the accuracy of such information. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Global Clearance and Settlement Procedures </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Secondary market trading between Clearstream participants and/or Euroclear system participants will occur in the ordinary way in accordance
with the applicable rules and operating procedures of Clearstream and the Euroclear system, as applicable. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Cross-market transfers between
persons holding directly or indirectly through DTC on the one hand, and directly or indirectly through Clearstream participants or Euroclear system participants on the other, will be effected through DTC in accordance with DTC rules on behalf of the
relevant European international clearing system by its United States depositary; however, such cross-market transactions will require delivery of instructions to the relevant European international clearing system by the counterparty in such system
in accordance with its rules and procedures and within its established deadlines (European time). The relevant European international clearing system will, if the transaction meets its settlement requirements, deliver instructions to its United
States depositary to take action to effect final settlement on its behalf by delivering or receiving securities in DTC, and making or receiving payment in accordance with normal procedures for <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">same-day</FONT> funds
settlement applicable to DTC. Clearstream participants and Euroclear system participants may not deliver instructions directly to their respective United States depositaries. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Because of time-zone differences, credits of notes received in Clearstream or the Euroclear system as a result of a transaction with a DTC
participant will be made during subsequent securities settlement processing and dated the business day following the DTC settlement date. Such credits or any transactions in such notes settled during such processing will be reported to the relevant
Clearstream participant or Euroclear system participant on such business day. Cash received in Clearstream or the Euroclear system as a result of sales of the notes by or through a Clearstream participant or a Euroclear system participant to a DTC
participant will be received with value on the DTC settlement date but will be available in the relevant Clearstream, Luxembourg or the Euroclear system cash account only as of the business day following settlement in DTC. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The information in this section concerning DTC and DTC&#146;s book-entry system, Clearstream, Luxembourg and the Euroclear system has been
obtained from sources that we believe to be reliable. Neither we nor the underwriters take any responsibility for the accuracy of this information. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-34 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_6"></A>MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the notes. This summary deals
only with notes that are held as capital assets (generally, for investment purposes) by persons who purchase the notes for cash upon original issuance at their &#147;issue price&#148; (the first price at which a substantial amount of the notes of
the applicable series is sold for money to investors, excluding sales to bond houses, brokers or similar persons or organizations acting in the capacity of underwriter, placement agent or wholesaler). </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This summary is based upon provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the &#147;Code&#148;), and existing and proposed
Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, rulings and judicial decisions as of the date of this prospectus supplement. Those authorities may be changed, possibly with retroactive effect, so as to result in U.S. federal income tax consequences
different from those summarized below. We have not sought and will not seek any rulings from the Internal Revenue Service (&#147;IRS&#148;) regarding the matters discussed below. There can be no assurance that the IRS will not take positions
concerning the tax consequences of the ownership or disposition of the notes that are different from those discussed below. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This summary
does not address all of the U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to you in light of your personal circumstances, nor does it address the Medicare tax on net investment income, U.S. federal estate and gift taxes or the effects of
any state, local or <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> tax laws. In addition, it does not represent a detailed description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences applicable to you if you are a person subject to special treatment
under the U.S. federal income tax laws, including, without limitation: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a broker or dealer in securities or currencies; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a financial institution; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an insurance company; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a regulated investment company; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a real estate investment trust; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">tax-exempt</FONT> entity; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a person holding the notes as part of a hedging, integrated, conversion or constructive sale transaction or a
straddle; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a trader in securities that has elected the
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">mark-to-market</FONT></FONT> method of accounting for your securities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a person liable for alternative minimum tax; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a U.S. holder (as defined below) that holds notes through a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT>
broker or other <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> intermediary; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a U.S. holder whose &#147;functional currency&#148; is not the U.S. dollar; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a U.S. expatriate; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a &#147;controlled foreign corporation&#148;; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a &#147;passive foreign investment company&#148;; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a partnership or other pass-through entity (or an investor in such an entity); or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a person required to accelerate the recognition of any item of gross income with respect to the notes as a result
of such income being recognized on an applicable financial statement. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-35 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As used herein, a &#147;U.S. holder&#148; means a beneficial owner of the notes that is, for
U.S. federal income tax purposes, any of the following: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a corporation (or any other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) that is created
or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a trust if it (i)&nbsp;is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or more
United States persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (ii)&nbsp;has a valid election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a United States person. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The term <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">&#147;non-U.S.</FONT> holder&#148; means a beneficial owner of the notes (other than an entity or
arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) that is not a U.S. holder. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If a partnership (or other entity
or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds the notes, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. If you are a partnership or a
partner in a partnership considering an investment in the notes, you should consult your own tax advisors. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>If you are considering the
purchase of notes, you should consult your own tax advisors concerning the particular U.S. federal income tax consequences to you of the ownership and disposition of the notes, as well as the consequences to you arising under other U.S. federal tax
laws and the laws of any other taxing jurisdiction. </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Classification of the Notes </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The determination of whether a security should be classified as indebtedness or equity for U.S. federal income tax purposes requires a judgment
based on all relevant facts and circumstances. There is no statutory, judicial or administrative authority that directly addresses the U.S. federal income tax treatment of securities similar to the notes, and no rulings have been sought, or will be
sought, from the IRS in this regard. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In connection with the issuance of the notes, Baker Botts L.L.P. will render its opinion that, while
the matter is not completely free from doubt, under applicable law as of the issue date of the notes, the notes will be properly characterized as indebtedness for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This opinion is based upon an analysis of the
relevant facts and circumstances, including certain representations relied upon in rendering the opinion, and assumes that the transactions related to the issuance of the Notes are consummated in accordance with the terms of the relevant transaction
documents. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This opinion is not, however, binding on the IRS. If, contrary to the opinion described herein, the IRS were to assert
successfully that the notes were not properly characterized as indebtedness for U.S. federal income tax purposes, interest payments on the notes would generally be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as dividends to the extent paid out of
our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes). In the case of <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> holders, payments treated as dividends would generally be subject to withholding of
U.S. federal income tax, except to the extent provided by an applicable income tax treaty. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We agree, and by acquiring an interest in a
note each holder and beneficial owner of a note agrees, to treat the notes as indebtedness for U.S. federal, state and local tax purposes, and the remainder of this discussion assumes such treatment. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-36 </P>

</DIV></Center>


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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Possible Alternative Treatments </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may be obligated to pay amounts in excess of the stated interest or principal on the notes, including upon an optional redemption of the
notes following the occurrence of a rating agency event (as described under &#147;Description of Notes&#151;Redemption&#151;Redemption Following a Rating Agency Event&#148;). These potential payments may implicate the provisions of U.S. Treasury
regulations relating to &#147;contingent payment debt instruments.&#148; We intend to take the position that the possibility of any such payments does not result in the notes being treated as contingent payment debt instruments under the applicable
U.S. Treasury regulations because the likelihood of any such payments, and the likelihood of (i)&nbsp;an early redemption of the notes upon the occurrence of a rating agency event (as described under &#147;Description of
Notes&#151;Redemption&#151;Redemption Following a Rating Agency Event&#148;) and (ii)&nbsp;the interest deferrals discussed below under &#147;Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders&#151;Original Issue Discount&#148; is, individually and in the aggregate,
remote. Our position is binding on you, unless you disclose your contrary position in the manner required by applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. Our position is not, however, binding on the IRS, and if the IRS were to successfully challenge this
position, you might be required to accrue ordinary interest income on the notes at a rate in excess of the stated interest rate, and to treat as ordinary interest income (rather than capital gain) any gain realized on the taxable disposition of a
note. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the notes will not be treated as contingent payment debt instruments. You are urged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the possible application of the contingent payment debt instrument
rules to the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences that will apply if you are a U.S. holder of the notes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Stated Interest</I>. Subject to the next paragraph, stated interest on the notes will generally be taxable to you as ordinary income at the
time the interest is received or accrued, depending on your regular method of accounting for U.S. federal income tax purposes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may be
obligated to pay amounts in excess of the stated interest or principal on the notes, including upon an optional redemption of the notes following the occurrence of a rating agency event. These potential payments may implicate the provisions of U.S.
Treasury regulations relating to &#147;contingent payment debt instruments.&#148; We intend to take the position that the possibility of any such payments does not result in the notes being treated as contingent payment debt instruments under the
applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. Our position is binding on you, unless you disclose your contrary position in the manner required by applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. Our position is not, however, binding on the IRS, and if the IRS were to
successfully challenge this position, you might be required to accrue ordinary interest income on the notes at a rate in excess of the stated interest rate, and to treat as ordinary interest income (rather than capital gain) any gain realized on the
taxable disposition of a note. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the notes will not be treated as contingent payment debt instruments. You are urged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the possible application of the contingent
payment debt instrument rules to the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Original Issue Discount</I>. Subject to the discussion below, it is expected and assumed
for purposes of this discussion that the notes will not be issued with original issue discount (&#147;OID&#148;) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. U.S. Treasury regulations provide that the possibility that interest on the notes might be
deferred would generally result in the notes being treated as issued with OID, unless the likelihood of such deferral is remote. We believe that the likelihood of our exercising the option to defer payment of stated interest is remote within the
meaning of the U.S. Treasury regulations, and therefore that the possibility of such deferral will not result in the notes being treated as issued with OID. Accordingly, interest paid on the notes should be taxable to you as described above under
&#147;&#151;Stated Interest.&#148; </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-37 </P>

</DIV></Center>


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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">However, no rulings or other interpretations have been issued by the IRS that address the
meaning of the term &#147;remote,&#148; as used in the applicable Treasury regulations, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will agree with our position. If, with respect to the notes of a series, the possibility of interest
deferral were determined not to be remote, or if interest were in fact deferred, such notes would be treated as issued with OID at the time of issuance, or reissued with OID at the time of such deferral, as the case may be, and all stated interest,
or, if interest is in fact deferred, all stated interest due after such deferral, would be treated as OID. Under the OID rules, you will be required to include OID in taxable income (as ordinary income) as it accrues, using a constant yield method,
regardless of your regular method of accounting for U.S. federal income tax purposes and in advance of the receipt of the cash to which such OID is attributable. Actual payments of stated interest would not be reported separately as taxable income.
Consequently, you would be required to include OID in gross income even if we do not make any actual cash payments during an Optional Deferral Period. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Sale, Exchange, Retirement or Other Taxable Disposition of the Notes</I>. You will generally recognize gain or loss on the sale, exchange,
retirement or other taxable disposition of a note in an amount equal to the difference, if any, between the amount realized from such sale, exchange, retirement or other taxable disposition and your adjusted tax basis in the note. Assuming the notes
are not treated as issued or reissued with OID (as described above), the amount realized will not include any amounts attributable to accrued but unpaid interest (which will be taxable as described above). Your adjusted tax basis in a note will, in
general, be your cost for that note, and if the note is treated as having been issued or reissued with OID, such adjusted tax basis will also be increased by the amount of any OID previously included in your gross income with respect to the note and
decreased by any payments received on the note since and including the date that the note was deemed to be issued or reissued with OID. Any gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the
holding period for the note exceeds one year at the time of disposition. Long-term capital gain of <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-corporate</FONT> U.S. holders (including individuals) is eligible for reduced rates of taxation. The
deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If you sell or otherwise dispose of a note before the record date for the
payment of interest at the end of an Optional Deferral Period, you will not receive such interest. Instead, the accrued interest will be paid to the holder of record on the record date regardless of who the holder of record may have been on any
other date during the Optional Deferral Period. Moreover, the accrued OID will be added to your adjusted tax basis in the note but may not be reflected in the amount you realize on the sale or other disposition. To the extent the amount realized on
a sale or other taxable disposition of a note is less than your adjusted tax basis, you will generally recognize a capital loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Tax Consequences to <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Non-U.S.</FONT> Holders </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences that will apply if you are a
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> holder of the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>U.S. Federal Withholding Tax. </I>Subject to the discussions of
backup withholding and FATCA below, U.S. federal withholding tax will not apply to any payment of interest (which, for purposes of the discussion of <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> holders, includes any OID) on the notes under the
&#147;portfolio interest rule,&#148; provided that: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">interest paid on the notes is not effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United
States; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">you do not actually or constructively own 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our
voting stock (within the meaning of Section&nbsp;871(h) of the Code and applicable U.S. Treasury regulations); </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">you are not a controlled foreign corporation that is actually or constructively related to us through stock
ownership; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-38 </P>

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<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">you are not a bank whose receipt of interest on the notes is described in Section&nbsp;881(c)(3)(A) of the Code;
and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">either (a)&nbsp;you provide your name and address on an applicable IRS Form
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">W-8,</FONT> and certify, under penalties of perjury, that you are not a United States person as defined under the Code or (b)&nbsp;you hold your notes through certain foreign intermediaries and satisfy the
certification requirements of applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. Special certification rules apply to <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> holders that are pass-through entities rather than corporations or individuals.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If you cannot satisfy the requirements described above, payments of interest made to you will be subject to a 30% U.S.
federal withholding tax, unless you provide the applicable withholding agent with a properly executed: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">IRS Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">W-8BEN</FONT> or Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">W-8BEN-E</FONT></FONT> (or other applicable form) claiming an exemption from or reduction in withholding under the benefit of an applicable income tax treaty; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">IRS Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">W-8ECI</FONT> (or other applicable form) certifying that interest paid
on the notes is not subject to withholding tax because it is effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States (as discussed below under &#147;&#151;U.S. Federal Income Tax&#148;). </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>U.S. Federal Income Tax. </I>If you are engaged in a trade or business in the United States and interest on the notes is effectively
connected with the conduct of that trade or business (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, is attributable to a U.S. fixed base or permanent establishment), then you generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on that
interest on a net income basis in the same manner as if you were a U.S. holder (although you will be exempt from the 30% U.S. federal withholding tax described above, provided the certification requirements discussed above in &#147;&#151;U.S.
Federal Withholding Tax&#148; are satisfied). In addition, if you are a foreign corporation, you may be subject to a branch profits tax equal to 30% (or a lower applicable income tax treaty rate) of your effectively connected earnings and profits,
subject to adjustments. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Sale, Exchange, Retirement or Other Taxable Disposition of the Notes</I>. Subject to the discussion of backup
withholding below, any gain realized on the sale, exchange, retirement or other taxable disposition of a note generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax unless: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the gain is effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States (and, if required
by an applicable income tax treaty, is attributable to a U.S. fixed base or permanent establishment), in which case such gain generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax (and possibly branch profits tax) in the same manner as effectively
connected interest as described above; or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">you are an individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of that
disposition and certain other conditions are met, in which case, unless an applicable income tax treaty provides otherwise, you will generally be subject to a 30% U.S. federal income tax on any gain recognized, which may be offset by certain
U.S.-source losses. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Information Reporting and Backup Withholding </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>U.S. Holders</I>. In general, information reporting requirements will apply to payments of stated interest on the notes, accruals of OID (if
any) and the proceeds from a sale or other taxable disposition (including a retirement or redemption) of a note paid to you, unless you establish that you are an exempt recipient. Backup withholding may apply to any payments described in the
preceding sentence if you fail to provide a correct taxpayer identification number and a certification that you are not subject to backup withholding, or if you fail to report in full dividend and interest income. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Backup withholding is not an additional tax and any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a credit
against your U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-39 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Non-U.S.</FONT> Holders</I>. Generally, the amount of
interest (including any OID) paid to you and the amount of tax, if any, withheld with respect to those payments will be reported to the IRS. Copies of the information returns reporting such interest payments and any withholding may also be made
available to the tax authorities in the country in which you reside under the provisions of an applicable income tax treaty. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In general,
you will not be subject to backup withholding with respect to payments of interest (including any OID) on the notes that we make to you, provided that the applicable withholding agent does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that you are a
United States person as defined under the Code, and such withholding agent has received from you the statement described above in the fifth bullet point under &#147;&#151;Tax Consequences to <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Non-U.S.</FONT>
Holders&#151;U.S. Federal Withholding Tax.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Information reporting and, depending on the circumstances, backup withholding will apply
to the proceeds of a sale or other taxable disposition (including a retirement or redemption) of a note within the United States or conducted through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries, unless you certify to the payor under penalties of
perjury that you are a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-U.S.</FONT> holder (and the payor does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that you are a United States person as defined under the Code), or you otherwise establish an exemption.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Backup withholding is not an additional tax and any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a
credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Additional Withholding
Requirements </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code (such Sections commonly referred to as &#147;FATCA&#148;), a 30% U.S.
federal withholding tax may apply to any interest (including any OID) paid on the notes to (i)&nbsp;a &#147;foreign financial institution&#148; (as specifically defined in the Code and whether such foreign financial institution is the beneficial
owner or an intermediary) which does not provide sufficient documentation, typically on IRS <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Form&nbsp;W-8BEN-E,</FONT></FONT> evidencing either (x)&nbsp;an exemption from FATCA, or
(y)&nbsp;its compliance (or deemed compliance) with FATCA (which may alternatively be in the form of compliance with an intergovernmental agreement with the United States) in a manner which avoids withholding, or (ii)&nbsp;a <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">&#147;non-financial</FONT> foreign entity&#148; (as specifically defined in the Code and whether such <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-financial</FONT> foreign entity is the beneficial owner or an intermediary) which
does not provide sufficient documentation, typically on IRS Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">W-8BEN-E,</FONT></FONT> evidencing either (x)&nbsp;an exemption from FATCA, or (y)&nbsp;adequate information regarding
certain substantial U.S. beneficial owners of such entity (if any). If an interest payment is both subject to withholding under FATCA and subject to the withholding tax discussed above under &#147;&#151;Tax Consequences to <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Non-U.S.</FONT> Holders&#151;U.S. Federal Withholding Tax,&#148; an applicable withholding agent may credit the withholding under FATCA against, and therefore reduce, such other withholding tax. While withholding under
FATCA would also have applied to payments of gross proceeds from the sale or other taxable disposition of the notes, proposed U.S. Treasury regulations (upon which taxpayers may rely until final regulations are issued) eliminate FATCA withholding on
payments of gross proceeds entirely. You should consult your own tax advisors regarding these rules and whether they may be relevant to your ownership and disposition of the notes. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-40 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_7"></A>UNDERWRITING (CONFLICTS OF INTEREST) </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement between us and the underwriters named below for the notes, for whom
Barclays Capital Inc., Goldman Sachs&nbsp;&amp; Co. LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Mizuho Securities USA LLC and Morgan Stanley&nbsp;&amp; Co. LLC are acting as representatives, we have agreed to sell to each of the underwriters, and each of the
underwriters has severally agreed to purchase from us, the principal amount of notes set forth opposite its name below. </P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="76%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" ALIGN="center">


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<TD VALIGN="bottom" NOWRAP ALIGN="center"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000; display:table-cell; font-size:8pt; font-family:Times New Roman; " ALIGN="center"><B>Underwriter</B></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Principal&nbsp;Amount&nbsp;of<BR>Series A Notes</B></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="bottom" COLSPAN="2" ALIGN="center" STYLE="border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000"><B>Principal&nbsp;Amount&nbsp;of<BR>Series B Notes</B></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>


<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Barclays Capital Inc.</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Goldman Sachs&nbsp;&amp; Co. LLC</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">J.P. Morgan Securities LLC</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Mizuho Securities USA LLC</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
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<TR BGCOLOR="#cceeff" STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Morgan Stanley&nbsp;&amp; Co. LLC</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">BNP Paribas Securities Corp.</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">RBC Capital Markets, LLC</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Truist Securities, Inc.</P></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc.</P></TD>
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<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
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<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="top"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Total</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">$</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="font-size:1px; ">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; border-top:1.00px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P></TD>
<TD>&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The underwriters are offering the notes, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by
them, subject to approval of legal matters by counsel, including the validity of the notes, and other conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, such as the receipt by the underwriters of officer&#146;s certificates and legal opinions. The
underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The
underwriters have advised us that they propose to initially offer the notes to the public at the offering prices appearing on the cover page of this prospectus supplement and may also offer the notes to dealers at a price that represents a
concession not in excess of &#8195;&#8195;% per Series A Note and not in excess of &#8195;&#8195;% per Series B Note. Any underwriter may allow, and any of these dealers may <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">re-allow,</FONT> a concession not in
excess of &#8195;&#8195;% per Series A Note and not in excess of &#8195;&#8195;% per Series B Note to certain other dealers. After the initial offering of the notes, the underwriters may from time to time vary the offering pricing and other selling
terms. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The obligations of the underwriters, including their agreement to purchase the notes of each series from us, are several and not
joint. The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters are subject to certain conditions. The underwriters must purchase all of the Series A Notes if they purchase any of the Series A Notes and all of the Series B Notes
if they purchase any of the Series B Notes. However, the sales of the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes are not conditioned upon each other, and we may consummate the sale of one series and not the others, or consummate the sales at different
times. The underwriting agreement also provides that if an underwriter defaults, the purchase commitments of the <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-defaulting</FONT> underwriters under the agreement may be increased or the offering of the notes
may be terminated. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Each series of notes will be a new issue of securities for which currently there is no established trading market. We
do not intend to apply for listing of any series of the notes on any securities exchange or for quotation of the notes on any dealer quotation system. The underwriters have advised us that they intend to make a market in each series of the notes
after the offering, although they are under no obligation to do so. The underwriters may discontinue any market-making activities at any time without any notice. We can give no assurance as to the liquidity of the trading market for the notes or
that a public trading market for the notes will develop. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In connection with the offering of the notes, the underwriters may engage in
transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the notes. Specifically, the underwriters may overallot in connection </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-41 </P>

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with the offering of the notes, creating a syndicate short position. In addition, the underwriters may bid for, and purchase, the notes in the open market to cover short positions or to stabilize
the price of the notes. Finally, the underwriters may reclaim selling concessions allowed for distributing the notes in the offering, if the underwriters repurchase previously distributed notes in transactions to cover short positions, in
stabilization transactions or otherwise. Any of these activities may stabilize or maintain the market prices of the notes above independent market levels. The underwriters are not required to engage in any of these activities, and may end any of
them at any time without notice. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter repays to the
underwriters a portion of the underwriting discount recovered by it because the representatives have repurchased notes sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We estimate that our share of the total expenses of the offering, excluding the underwriting discount, will be approximately
$2.2&nbsp;million. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We expect that delivery of the notes will be made against payment therefor on or about August &#8195;&#8195;&#8195;,
2024, which will be the second business day following the date of pricing of the notes (this settlement cycle being referred to as &#147;T+2&#148;). Under Rule 15c6-1 of the Securities Exchange Act, trades in the secondary market generally are
required to settle in one business day, unless the parties to a trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, purchasers who wish to trade the notes on the initial pricing date of the notes will be required, by virtue of the fact that the notes
initially will settle in T+2, to specify alternative settlement arrangements at the time of any such trade to prevent a failed settlement and should consult their own advisors. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We have agreed to indemnify the several underwriters against, or contribute to payments that the underwriters may be required to make in
respect of, certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The underwriters and their
affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include securities trading, commercial and investment banking, financial advisory, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging,
financing and brokerage activities. In the ordinary course of their respective businesses, certain of the underwriters and/or their affiliates have engaged, and may in the future engage, in commercial banking, investment banking, trust or investment
management transactions with us and our affiliates for which they have received, and will in the future receive, customary compensation. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In addition, in the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriters and their respective affiliates may make or hold a
broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative instruments) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account and for the accounts of their customers, and such investment and
securities activities may involve securities and instruments of ours or our affiliates. If any of the underwriters and their affiliates has a lending relationship with us, certain of these underwriters or their affiliates routinely hedge and certain
of these underwriters or their affiliates may hedge their credit exposure to us consistent with their customary risk management policies. Typically, such underwriters and their affiliates would hedge such exposure by entering into transactions which
consist of either the purchase of credit default swaps or the creation of short positions in our securities, including potentially the notes offered hereby. Any credit default swaps or short positions could adversely affect future trading prices of
the notes offered hereby. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may also make investment recommendations or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or financial instruments and may at any time hold, or
recommend to clients that they acquire, long or short positions in such securities and instruments. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-42 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Conflicts of Interest </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Certain of the underwriters and/or their affiliates may hold a portion of our outstanding Senior Notes due 2024 or commercial paper that we
intend to repay using a portion of the net proceeds from this offering. In such event, it is possible that one or more of the underwriters or their affiliates could receive at least 5% of the net proceeds of this offering, and in that case, such
underwriter would be deemed to have a conflict of interest under FINRA Rule 5121 (Public Offerings of Securities with Conflicts of Interest). In the event of any such conflict of interest, such underwriter would be required to conduct the
distribution of the notes in accordance with FINRA Rule 5121. If FINRA Rule 5121 is applicable, such underwriter would not be permitted to confirm a sale to an account over which it exercises discretionary authority without first receiving specific
written approval from the account holder. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Selling Restrictions </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in the European Economic Area </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes are not intended to be offered, sold or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to
any retail investor in the European Economic Area (&#147;EEA&#148;). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (i)&nbsp;a retail client as defined in point (11)&nbsp;of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU (as
amended, &#147;MiFID II&#148;); or (ii)&nbsp;a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97, as amended, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10)&nbsp;of Article 4(1) of MiFID II; or
(iii)&nbsp;not a qualified investor as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended, the &#147;Prospectus Regulation&#148;). Consequently, no key information document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 (as amended, the &#147;PRIIPs
Regulation&#148;) for offering or selling the notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the EEA has been prepared and therefore offering or selling the notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the EEA
may be unlawful under the PRIIPs Regulation. This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus have been prepared on the basis that any offer of the notes in any Member State of the EEA will be made pursuant to an exemption under the
Prospectus Regulation from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of the notes. Neither this prospectus supplement nor the accompanying prospectus are prospectuses for purposes of the Prospectus Regulation. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes are not intended to be offered, sold or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to
any retail investor in the United Kingdom (&#147;UK&#148;). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (i)&nbsp;a retail client, as defined in point (8)&nbsp;of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) No 2017/565 as it forms
part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (&#147;EUWA&#148;); (ii) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (as amended, the &#147;FSMA&#148;) and any rules or
regulations made under the FSMA to implement Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8)&nbsp;of Article&nbsp;2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by
virtue of the EUWA; or (iii)&nbsp;not a qualified investor as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA (the &#147;UK Prospectus Directive&#148;). Consequently no key information
document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA (the &#147;UK PRIIPs Regulation&#148;) for offering or selling the notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the UK has
been prepared and therefore offering or selling the notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the UK may be unlawful under the UK PRIIPs Regulation. This prospectus supplement has been prepared on the basis that any offer of
notes in the UK will be made pursuant to an exemption under the UK Prospectus Regulation. Neither this prospectus supplement nor the accompanying prospectus is a prospectus for the purposes of the UK Prospectus Regulation. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">For the purposes of this provision, the expression an &#147;offer to the public&#148; in relation to any notes in the UK means the
communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any notes to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase any notes. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-43 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Each person in the UK who receives any communication in respect of, or who acquires any
notes under, the offer to the public contemplated in this prospectus supplement or to whom the notes are otherwise made available, will be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed to and with each underwriter and the Company that it and any
person on whose behalf it acquires notes is (i)&nbsp;a &#147;qualified investor&#148; within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the UK Prospectus Regulation; and (ii)&nbsp;not a retail investor. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Australia </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">do not constitute a product disclosure document or a prospectus under Chapter 6D.2 of the Corporations Act 2001
(Cth) (the &#147;Corporations Act&#148;); </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">have not been, and will not be, lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission
(&#147;ASIC&#148;), as a disclosure document for the purposes of the Corporations Act and do not purport to include the information required of a disclosure document under Chapter 6D.2 of the Corporations Act; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">do not constitute or involve a recommendation to acquire, an offer or&nbsp;invitation for issue or sale, an offer
or invitation to arrange the issue or sale, or an issue or sale, of interests to a &#147;retail client&#148; (as defined in section 761G of the Corporations Act and applicable regulations) in Australia; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">may only be provided in Australia to select investors who are able to demonstrate that they fall within one or
more of the categories of investors, or &#147;Exempt Investors,&#148; available under section 708 of the Corporations Act. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes may not be directly or indirectly offered for subscription or purchased or sold, and no invitations to subscribe for or buy the
notes may be issued, and no draft or definitive offering memorandum, advertisement or other offering material relating to any notes may be distributed in Australia, except where disclosure to investors is not required under Chapter 6D of the
Corporations Act or is otherwise in compliance with all applicable Australian laws and regulations. By submitting an application for the notes, you represent and warrant to us that you are an Exempt Investor. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As any offer of notes under this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus will be made without disclosure in Australia under
Chapter 6D.2 of the Corporations Act, the offer of those securities for resale in Australia within 12 months may, under section 707 of the Corporations Act, require disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D.2 if none of the exemptions in section 708
applies to that resale. By applying for the notes you undertake to us that you will not, for a period of 12 months from the date of issue of the notes, offer, transfer, assign or otherwise alienate those securities to investors in Australia except
in circumstances where disclosure to investors is not required under Chapter 6D.2 of the Corporations Act or where a compliant disclosure document is prepared and lodged with ASIC. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Canada </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in
National Instrument <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">45-106&nbsp;Prospectus</FONT> Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the&nbsp;Securities Act&nbsp;(Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">31-103&nbsp;Registration</FONT> Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations. Any resale of the notes must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus
requirements of applicable securities laws. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser
with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser
within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser&#146;s province or territory. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-44 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser&#146;s province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal
advisor. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Pursuant to section 3A.3 of National Instrument <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">33-105&nbsp;Underwriting</FONT>
Conflicts&nbsp;(NI <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">33-105),</FONT> the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">33-105</FONT> regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in
connection with this offering. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Switzerland </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus is not intended to constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase or invest in the
notes. The notes may not be publicly offered, directly or indirectly, in Switzerland within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (&#147;FinSA&#148;) and no application has or will be made to admit the notes to trading on any trading venue
(exchange or multilateral trading facility) in Switzerland. Neither this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the notes constitutes a prospectus pursuant to the FinSA, and
neither this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the notes may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus do not constitute nor are they intended to be an offer or invitation to the public
in Hong Kong to acquire the notes. The notes have not been, and may not and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (i)&nbsp;to &#147;professional investors&#148; as defined in the Securities and Futures
Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder, or (ii)&nbsp;in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a &#147;prospectus&#148; as defined in the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions)
Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) and which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of that Ordinance. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the notes has been, may be or will be issued, or has been, may be,
or will be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public of Hong Kong (except if permitted
to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to the notes which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to &#147;professional investors&#148; as defined in the Securities and
Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The contents of this prospectus supplement and the
accompanying prospectus have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any Hong Kong regulatory authorities, including the Securities and Futures Commission and the Companies Registry of Hong Kong and neither have they been nor will they be
registered with the Registrar of Companies in Hong Kong. The notes may not be offered for subscription to members of the public in Hong Kong. You are advised to exercise caution in relation to the offer. If you are in doubt about any contents of
this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, you should obtain independent professional advice. Each person acquiring the notes will be required, and is deemed by the acquisition of the notes, to confirm that such person is aware of
the restriction on offers of the notes described in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the relevant offering documents and that such person is not acquiring, and has not been offered any notes in circumstances that
contravene any such restrictions and that such person has complied with all relevant laws, rules and regulations applicable to it/him/her and the jurisdiction(s) where such person or its/his/her assets are located. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes offered hereby have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No.&nbsp;25 of
1948, as amended) (the &#147;Financial Instruments and Exchange Law&#148;). The notes have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to, or </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-45 </P>

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for the account or benefit of, any resident of Japan (which term as used herein means any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan),
or to others for <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">re-offering</FONT> or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to or for the account or benefit of a resident of Japan, except (i)&nbsp;pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements
of, and otherwise in compliance with, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law and (ii)&nbsp;in compliance with any other applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines promulgated by the relevant Japanese governmental and regulatory
authorities in effect at the relevant time. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus have not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Accordingly, this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the notes may not be circulated or distributed, nor may
the notes be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i)&nbsp;to an institutional investor (as defined in Section&nbsp;4A of the
Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore, as modified from time to time (the &#147;SFA&#148;)) pursuant to Section&nbsp;274 of the SFA, (ii)&nbsp;to a relevant person (as defined in Section&nbsp;275(2) of the SFA) pursuant to
Section&nbsp;275(1) of the SFA, or any person pursuant to Section&nbsp;275(1A) of the SFA, and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section&nbsp;275 of the SFA and (where applicable) Regulation 3 of the Securities and Futures (Classes of
Investors) Regulations 2018 of Singapore, where each such person is (1)&nbsp;an expert investor (as defined in Section&nbsp;4A of the SFA) or (2)&nbsp;not an individual, or (iii)&nbsp;otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of,
any other applicable provision of the SFA, in each case subject to conditions set forth in the SFA. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Where the notes are subscribed or
purchased pursuant to an offer made in reliance on Section&nbsp;275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section&nbsp;4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold
investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor, the securities (as defined in Section&nbsp;239(1) of the SFA) of that corporation shall not be transferable for 6 months
after that corporation has acquired the Notes under Section&nbsp;275 of the SFA except: (1)&nbsp;to an institutional investor pursuant to Section&nbsp;274 of the SFA or to a relevant person (as defined in Section&nbsp;275(2) of the SFA) pursuant to
Section&nbsp;275(1) of the SFA, or to any person pursuant to Section&nbsp;275(1A) and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section&nbsp;275 of the SFA; (2) (in the case of a corporation) where the transfer arises from an offer referred to
in Section&nbsp;276(3)(i)(B) of the SFA or (in the case of a trust) where the transfer arises from an offer referred to in Section&nbsp;276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA; (3)&nbsp;where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer; (4)&nbsp;where the
transfer is by operation of law; (5)&nbsp;as specified in Section&nbsp;276(7) of the SFA; or (6)&nbsp;as specified in Regulation 37A of the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) Securities and Securities-based Derivative Contracts
Regulations 2018 of Singapore. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Singapore Securities and Futures Act Product Classification &#151; Solely for the purposes of its
obligations pursuant to sections 309B(1)(a) and 309B(1)(c) of the SFA, we have determined, and hereby notify all relevant persons (as defined in Section&nbsp;309A of the SFA) that the notes are &#147;prescribed capital markets products&#148; (as
defined in the Securities and Futures (Capital Markets Products) Regulations 2018) and Excluded Investment Products (as defined in MAS Notice SFA <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">04-N12:</FONT> Notice on the Sale of Investment Products and MAS
Notice <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">FAA-N16:</FONT> Notice on Recommendations on Investment Products). </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in
Taiwan </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes have not been and will not be registered or filed with, or approved by, the Financial Supervisory Commission of
Taiwan and/or any other regulatory authority of Taiwan pursuant to relevant securities laws and regulations and may not be sold, issued or offered within Taiwan through a public offering or in circumstances which could constitute an offer within the
meaning of the Securities and Exchange Act of Taiwan or relevant </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-46 </P>

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laws and regulations that requires a registration, filing or approval of the Financial Supervisory Commission of Taiwan and/or other regulatory authority of Taiwan. No person or entity in Taiwan
has been authorized to offer or sell the notes in Taiwan. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in the Republic of Korea </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes may not be offered, sold and delivered directly or indirectly, or offered or sold to any person for reoffering or resale, directly or
indirectly, in the Republic of Korea or to any resident of the Republic of Korea except pursuant to the applicable laws and regulations of the Republic of Korea, including, without limitation, the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets
Act and the Foreign Exchange Transaction Law and the decrees and regulations thereunder. The notes have not been and will not be registered with the Financial Services Commission of Korea for public offering in the Republic of Korea. Furthermore,
the notes may not be resold to residents of the Republic of Korea unless the purchaser of the notes complies with all applicable regulatory requirements (including but not limited to government approval requirements under the Foreign Exchange
Transaction Law and its subordinate decrees and regulations) in connection with the purchase of the notes. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Notice to Prospective Investors in the
United Arab Emirates </I></B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The notes have not been, and are not being, publicly offered, sold, promoted or advertised in the United Arab
Emirates (including the Dubai International Financial Centre or the Abu Dhabi Global Market) other than in compliance with the laws of the United Arab Emirates (and the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Abu Dhabi Global Market) governing
the issue, offering and sale of securities. Further, this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus do not constitute a public offer of securities in the United Arab Emirates (including the Dubai International Financial Centre and the
Abu Dhabi Global Market) and is not intended to be a public offer. The prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus have not been approved by or filed with the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, the Securities and Commodities
Authority, the Dubai Financial Services Authority or the Abu Dhabi Global Market&#146;s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-47 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_8"></A>LEGAL MATTERS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Baker Botts L.L.P., Houston, Texas will pass on the validity of the notes offered in this prospectus supplement. Monica Karuturi, our
Executive Vice President and General Counsel, may pass on other legal matters for us. Hunton&nbsp;Andrews Kurth LLP, New York, New York will pass on certain legal matters for the underwriters. From time to time, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP acts as
counsel to CenterPoint Energy and its affiliates on certain matters. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_9"></A>EXPERTS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The financial statements of CenterPoint Energy, Inc. as of December&nbsp;31, 2023 and 2022, and for each of the three years in the period
ended December&nbsp;31, 2023, incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement by reference to CenterPoint Energy, Inc.&#146;s Annual Report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the year ended December&nbsp;31, 2023, and
the effectiveness of CenterPoint Energy, Inc.&#146;s internal control over financial reporting have been audited by Deloitte&nbsp;&amp; Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports. Such financial
statements are incorporated by reference in reliance upon the reports of such firm given their authority as experts in accounting and auditing. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-48 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_10"></A>CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
</B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In this prospectus supplement, including the information we incorporate by reference, we make statements concerning our expectations,
beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are &#147;forward-looking statements&#148; within the meaning of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these statements. You can generally identify forward-looking statements by the words &#147;anticipate,&#148; &#147;believe,&#148;
&#147;continue,&#148; &#147;could,&#148; &#147;estimate,&#148; &#147;expect,&#148; &#147;forecast,&#148; &#147;goal,&#148; &#147;intend,&#148; &#147;may,&#148; &#147;objective,&#148; &#147;plan,&#148; &#147;potential,&#148; &#147;predict,&#148;
&#147;projection,&#148; &#147;should,&#148; &#147;target,&#148; &#147;will&#148; or other similar words. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We have based our
forward-looking statements on our management&#146;s beliefs and assumptions based on information reasonably available to our management at the time the statements are made. We caution you that assumptions, beliefs, expectations, intentions and
projections about future events may and often do vary materially from actual results. Therefore, we cannot assure you that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following are some of the factors that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking
statements: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our business strategies and strategic initiatives, restructurings, joint ventures and acquisitions or
dispositions of assets or businesses, including the announced sale of our Louisiana and Mississippi natural gas local distribution company businesses, and the completed sale of Energy Systems Group, LLC, which we cannot assure will have the
anticipated benefits to us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">industrial, commercial and residential growth in our service territories and changes in market demand, including
the effects of energy efficiency measures and demographic patterns; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to fund and invest planned capital and the timely recovery of our investments, including those
related to SIGECO&#146;s electric transmission and distribution service&#146;s generation transition plan as part of its integrated resource plans; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to successfully construct, operate, repair and maintain electric generating facilities, natural gas
facilities, temporary emergency electric energy facilities (&#147;TEEEF&#148;) and electric transmission facilities, including complying with applicable environmental standards and the implementation of a well-balanced energy and resource mix, as
appropriate; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">timely and appropriate rate actions that allow and authorize requested and timely recovery of costs and a
reasonable return on investment, including the timing and amount of recovery of Houston Electric&#146;s TEEEF leases and restoration costs relating to the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl, and requested or favorable adjustments to rates and
approval of other requested items as part of base rate proceedings; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">economic conditions in regional and national markets, including changes to inflation and interest rates, and
instability of banking institutions, and their effect on sales, prices and costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">weather variations and other natural phenomena, including the impact of severe weather events on operations,
capital, legislation and/or regulations, such as seen in connection with the extreme and unprecedented winter weather event in February 2021 (Winter Storm Uri) that resulted in electricity generation supply shortages, including in Texas, and natural
gas supply shortages and increased wholesale prices of natural gas in the United States, primarily due to prolonged freezing temperatures (&#147;February 2021 Winter Storm Event&#148;), the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">volatility in the markets for natural gas as a result of, among other factors, armed conflicts, including the
conflict in the Middle East and any broader related conflict, and the conflict in Ukraine, and the related sanctions on certain Russian entities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-49 </P>

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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">disruptions to the global supply chain, including volatility in commodity prices, and tariffs and other
legislation impacting the supply chain, that could prevent us from securing the resources needed to, among other things, fully execute on our <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-year</FONT> capital plan or achieve our net zero and carbon emissions
reduction goals; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-payment</FONT> for our services due to financial distress of our customers
and the ability of our customers, including REPs, to satisfy their obligations to us, Houston Electric, and CERC Corp. and its subsidiaries, and the negative impact on such ability related to adverse economic conditions and severe weather events;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">public health threats and their effect on our operations, business and financial condition, our industries and
the communities we serve, U.S. and world financial markets and supply chains, potential regulatory actions and changes in customer and stakeholder behavior relating thereto; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">state and federal legislative and regulatory actions or developments affecting various aspects of our businesses,
including, among others, any actions resulting from the May 2024 Storm Events and/or Hurricane Beryl, energy deregulation or <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">re-regulation,</FONT> pipeline integrity and safety and changes in regulation and
legislation pertaining to trade, health care, finance and actions regarding the rates charged by our regulated businesses; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to execute Houston Electric&#146;s initial hurricane preparedness and response action plan, as
described to the PUCT on July&nbsp;25, 2024, including enhancing the resiliency of Houston Electric&#146;s electric system through various investments, improving customer communications, and strengthening emergency response; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">direct or indirect effects on our facilities, resources, operations and financial condition resulting from
terrorism, cyberattacks or intrusions, data security breaches or other attempts to disrupt our businesses or the businesses of third parties, or other catastrophic events such as fires, ice, earthquakes, explosions, leaks, floods, droughts,
hurricanes, tornadoes and other severe weather events, pandemic health events or other occurrences; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">risks relating to potential wildfires, including costs of potential regulatory penalties and damages in excess of
insurance liability coverage; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">tax legislation, including the effects of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (which includes but is not limited
to any potential changes to tax rates, the corporate alternative minimum tax imposed, tax credits and/or interest deductibility), as well as any changes in tax laws under the current or future administrations, and uncertainties involving state
commissions&#146; and local municipalities&#146; regulatory requirements and determinations regarding the treatment of excess deferred income taxes and our rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to mitigate weather impacts through normalization or rate mechanisms, and the effectiveness of such
mechanisms; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">actions by credit rating agencies, including any potential downgrades to credit ratings; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">matters affecting regulatory approval, legislative actions, construction, implementation of necessary technology
or other issues with respect to major capital projects that result in delays or cancellation or in costs that cannot be recouped in rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">local, state and federal legislative and regulatory actions or developments relating to the environment,
including, among others, those related to global climate change, air emissions, carbon, waste water discharges and the handling and disposal of coal combustion residuals that could impact operations, cost recovery of generation plant costs and
related assets, and our net zero and carbon emissions reduction goals; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the impact of unplanned facility outages or other closures; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the sufficiency of our insurance coverage, including availability, cost, coverage and terms and ability to
recover claims; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-50 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the availability and prices of raw materials and services and changes in labor for current and future
construction projects and operations and maintenance costs, including our ability to control such costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">impacts from our pension and postretirement benefit plans, such as the investment performance and increases to
net periodic costs as a result of plan settlements and changes in assumptions, including discount rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes in interest rates and their impact on costs of borrowing and the valuation of our pension benefit
obligation; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">commercial bank and financial market conditions, including disruptions in the banking industry, our access to
capital, the cost of such capital, impacts on our vendors, customers and suppliers, and the results of our financing and refinancing efforts, including availability of funds in the debt capital markets; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">inability of various counterparties to meet their obligations to us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the extent and effectiveness of our risk management activities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">timely and appropriate regulatory actions, which include actions allowing securitization for any hurricanes or
other severe weather events, such as the May 2024 Storm Events and Hurricane Beryl, or natural disasters or other recovery of costs, including stranded coal-fired generation asset costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">acquisition and merger or divestiture activities involving us or our industry, including the ability to
successfully complete merger, acquisition and divestiture plans on the timelines we expect or at all, such as the proposed sale of our Louisiana and Mississippi natural gas local distribution company businesses; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to recruit, effectively transition, motivate and retain management and key employees and maintain
good labor relations; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes in technology, particularly with respect to efficient battery storage or the emergence or growth of new,
developing or alternative sources of generation, and their adoption by consumers; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the impact of climate change and alternate energy sources on the demand for natural gas and electricity generated
or transmitted by us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the timing and outcome of any audits, disputes and other proceedings related to taxes; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the recording of impairment charges; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">political and economic developments, including energy and environmental policies under the current
administration; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to execute on our strategy, initiatives, targets and goals, including our net zero and carbon
emissions reduction goals and our operations and maintenance expenditure goals; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the outcome of litigation, including litigation related to the February 2021 Winter Storm Event and Hurricane
Beryl; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">obligations related to warranties, guarantees and other contractual and legal obligations; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the effect of changes in and application of accounting standards and pronouncements; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">other factors discussed in &#147;Risk Factors&#148; beginning on page
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">S-10</FONT> of this prospectus supplement. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You should not place undue reliance on
forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-51 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_11"></A>WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains a Web site that contains
information we file electronically with the SEC, which you can access at <I>http://www.sec.gov</I>. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our Web site is located at
http://investors.centerpointenergy.com. Our Annual Reports on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K,</FONT> Quarterly Reports on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q,</FONT> Current Reports on Form
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">8-K</FONT> and other filings with the SEC are available, free of charge, through our Web site, as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports or filings are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.
Information on our Web site or any other website is not incorporated by reference in this prospectus and does not constitute a part of this prospectus. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus supplement, which includes information incorporated by reference (see &#147;Incorporation By Reference&#148; below), is part
of a registration statement we have filed with the SEC relating to the securities we may offer. As permitted by SEC rules, this prospectus supplement does not contain all of the information we have included in the registration statement and the
accompanying exhibits and schedules we file with the SEC. You may refer to the registration statement, the exhibits and the schedules for more information about us and our securities. The registration statement, exhibits and schedules are available
through the SEC&#146;s Web site. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="supptoc880950_12"></A>INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are &#147;incorporating by reference&#148; into this prospectus supplement certain information we file with the SEC. This means we are
disclosing important information to you by referring you to the documents containing the information. The information we incorporate by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus supplement. Information that we file later with the SEC
that is deemed incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement (but not information deemed to be furnished to and not filed with the SEC) will automatically update and supersede information previously included. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are incorporating by reference into this prospectus supplement the documents listed below and any subsequent filings we make with the SEC
under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as amended (excluding information deemed to be furnished and not filed with the SEC), until all the notes offered hereby are sold: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000113031024000010/cnp-20231231.htm">Annual
 Report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the fiscal year ended December<U></U>&nbsp;
31, 2023</A>, including the portions of our <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000110465924035036/tm2324842d3_def14a.htm">definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A</A> filed with the SEC
on March&nbsp;15, 2024 that are incorporated by reference therein; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our Quarterly Report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q</FONT> for the quarters ended <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031024000066/cnp-20240331.htm">March
<U></U>&nbsp;31, 2024</A> and <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/48732/000113031024000093/cnp-20240630.htm">June<U></U>&nbsp;30, 2024</A>; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our Current Reports on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">8-K</FONT> filed on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312524006148/d389888d8k.htm">January
<U></U>&nbsp;11, 2024</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312524039277/d794478d8k.htm">February<U></U>&nbsp;20, 2024</A> (the first report filed on such date) (other than the
information furnished pursuant to Item 7.01 thereto), <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000113031024000062/cnp-20240426.htm">April<U></U>&nbsp;
29, 2024</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312524135331/d816259d8k.htm">May<U></U>&nbsp;
9, 2024</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312524167028/d811993d8k.htm">June<U></U>&nbsp;
24, 2024</A> (other than the information furnished pursuant to Item 7.01 thereto), <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/48732/000110465924085024/tm2420721d1_8k.htm">August<U></U>&nbsp;2, 2024</A> (other
than the information furnished pursuant to Item 7.01 thereto) and <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000119312524197081/d856526d8k.htm">August&nbsp;8, 2024</A>. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You may also obtain a copy of our filings with the SEC at no cost by writing to or telephoning us at the following address: </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">CenterPoint Energy, Inc. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">Attn:
Investor Relations </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">P.O. Box 4567 </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">Houston, Texas 77210-4567 </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">(713) <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">207-6500</FONT> </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">S-52 </P>

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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>PROSPECTUS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>CenterPoint Energy, Inc. </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>1111 Louisiana </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Houston, Texas 77002 </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">(713)&nbsp;207-1111</FONT> </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:24pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>CENTERPOINT ENERGY, INC. </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>SENIOR DEBT SECURITIES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>COMMON STOCK </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>PREFERRED
STOCK </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>STOCK PURCHASE CONTRACTS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>EQUITY UNITS </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>DEPOSITARY
SHARES </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center> <P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will provide additional terms of our securities in one or more supplements to this prospectus. You should read this prospectus and the
related prospectus supplement carefully before you invest in our securities. No person may use this prospectus to offer and sell our securities unless a prospectus supplement accompanies this prospectus. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>The Offering </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may offer from time to
time: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">senior debt securities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">junior subordinated debt securities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">common stock; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">preferred stock; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">stock purchase contracts; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">equity units; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">depositary shares. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the NYSE Chicago under the symbol &#147;CNP.&#148; </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center> <P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Investing in our securities involves risks.&nbsp;See &#147;<A HREF="#toc880950_5">Risk Factors</A>&#148; on page&nbsp;4 of this prospectus.
</B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities
or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense. </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center>
<P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>The date of
this prospectus is May 17, 2023. </B></P>
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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>TABLE OF CONTENTS </B></P>
<P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE CELLSPACING="0" CELLPADDING="0" WIDTH="100%" BORDER="0" STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" ALIGN="center">


<TR>

<TD WIDTH="97%"></TD>

<TD VALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1%"></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD>
<TD></TD></TR>


<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_1">About This Prospectus</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_2">Where You Can Find More Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_3">Incorporation By Reference</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">1</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_4">About CenterPoint Energy, Inc</A>.</P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">3</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_5">Risk Factors</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">4</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_6">Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">4</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_7">Use of Proceeds</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">8</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_8">Description of Our Debt Securities</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">9</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_9">Description of Our Capital Stock</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">19</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_10">Description of Stock Purchase Contracts and Equity Units</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">26</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_11">Description of Depositary Shares</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">26</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_12">Holding Company Structure</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">27</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_13">Plan of Distribution</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">27</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_14">Legal Matters</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">29</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
<TR STYLE="page-break-inside:avoid ; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">
<TD VALIGN="bottom"> <P STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:1.00em; text-indent:-1.00em; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><A HREF="#toc880950_15">Experts</A></P></TD>
<TD VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom" ALIGN="right">30</TD>
<TD NOWRAP VALIGN="bottom">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
</TABLE>
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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_1"></A>ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus is part of a registration statement we have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the &#147;SEC&#148;) using a
&#147;shelf&#148; registration process. Using this process, we may offer any combination of the securities described in this prospectus in one or more offerings. This prospectus provides you with a general description of the securities we may offer.
Each time we use this prospectus to offer securities, we will file a supplement to this prospectus with the SEC that will describe the specific terms of the offering. The prospectus supplement may also add to, update or change the information
contained in this prospectus. Before you invest, you should carefully read this prospectus, the applicable prospectus supplement and the information contained in the documents we refer to under the heading &#147;Where You Can Find More
Information.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>We have not authorized anyone to provide any information or make any representations other than those contained in
this prospectus, any prospectus supplement and any communication from us or any underwriter specifying the final terms of a particular offering. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other
information that others may give you. We are not making an offer of these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer is not permitted. You should not assume that the information contained in this prospectus, any prospectus supplement or any
communication from us or any underwriter specifying the final terms of a particular offering is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front of that document. Any information we have incorporated by reference is accurate only as of the
date of the document incorporated by reference. </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">References in this prospectus to the terms &#147;we,&#148; &#147;us,&#148;
&#147;our&#148; or other similar terms mean CenterPoint Energy, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Bank of New York Mellon Trust&nbsp;Company, National Association, in each of its capacities referenced herein, including, but not limited
to, trustee, purchase contract agent, collateral agent, custodial agent, securities intermediary and paying agent, has not participated in the preparation of this prospectus and assumes no responsibility for its content. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_2"></A>WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains a Web site that contains
information we file electronically with the SEC, which you can access at <I>http://www.sec.gov</I>. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our Web site is located at
<I>http://investors.centerpointenergy.com</I>. Our Annual Reports on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K,</FONT> Quarterly Reports on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q,</FONT> Current Reports on Form
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">8-K</FONT> and other filings with the SEC are available, free of charge, through our Web site, as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports or filings are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.
Information on our Web site or any other website is not incorporated by reference in this prospectus and does not constitute a part of this prospectus. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">This prospectus, which includes information incorporated by reference (see &#147;Incorporation by Reference&#148; below), is part of a
registration statement we have filed with the SEC relating to the securities we may offer. As permitted by SEC rules, this prospectus does not contain all of the information we have included in the registration statement and the accompanying
exhibits and schedules we file with the SEC. You may refer to the registration statement, the exhibits and the schedules for more information about us and our securities. The registration statement, exhibits and schedules are available through the
SEC&#146;s Web site. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_3"></A>INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are &#147;incorporating by reference&#148; into this prospectus certain information we file with the SEC. This means we are disclosing
important information to you by referring you to the documents containing the </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">1 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">
information. The information we incorporate by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus. Information that we file later with the SEC that is deemed incorporated by reference into
this prospectus (which does not include information deemed pursuant to the SEC&#146;s rules to be furnished to and not filed with the SEC) will automatically update and supersede information previously included. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are incorporating by reference into this prospectus the documents listed below and any subsequent filings we make with the SEC under
Sections&nbsp;13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (excluding information deemed pursuant to the SEC&#146;s rules to be furnished and not filed with the SEC) until all the securities are sold: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our Annual Report on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031023000013/cnp-20221231.htm">Form
<U></U><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">&nbsp;10-K</FONT></A> for the fiscal year ended December&nbsp;
31, 2022, including the portions of our definitive proxy statement filed on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312523067654/d461167ddef14a.htm">Schedule 14A</A> on March&nbsp;10, 2023
that are specifically incorporated by reference therein; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our Quarterly Report on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000113031023000061/cnp-20230331.htm">Form
 <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-Q</FONT></A> for the quarter ended March&nbsp;31, 2023; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our Current Reports on <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Form&nbsp;8-K</FONT> and Form <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">8-K/A,</FONT> as applicable, filed with the SEC on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031023000002/cnp-20230103.htm">January&nbsp;3, 2023</A> (other than the
information furnished pursuant to Item 7.01 thereto), <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000119312523021694/d444047d8k.htm">February<U></U>&nbsp;
1, 2023</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031023000028/cnp-20230217.htm">February<U></U>&nbsp;
21, 2023</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031023000052/cnp-20230315.htm">March<U></U>&nbsp;
15, 2023</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000119312523072741/d481093d8k.htm">March<U></U>&nbsp;
16, 2023</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000119312523080484/d452025d8k.htm">March<U></U>&nbsp;
27, 2023</A>, <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000113031023000055/cnp-20230421.htm">April<U></U>&nbsp;
24, 2023</A> and <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001130310/000119312523130489/d505062d8k.htm">May<U></U>&nbsp;1, 2023</A>; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the description of our common stock contained in <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000113031023000013/cnp_exhibit4rx12312022.htm">Exhibit
 4(r)</A> to our Annual Report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the fiscal year ended December&nbsp;31, 2022, including any amendments or reports filed for the purpose of updating such description; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="4%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the description of our Series A Preferred Stock (as defined below) contained in our Current Report on <A HREF="http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1130310/000119312518256372/d601681d8k.htm">Form
 <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">8-K</FONT></A> filed with the SEC on August&nbsp;23, 2018. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You may also obtain a copy
of our filings with the SEC at no cost by writing to or telephoning us at the following address: </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">CenterPoint Energy, Inc. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">Attn: Investor Relations </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">P.O.&nbsp;Box&nbsp;4567 </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">Houston,
Texas 77210-4567 </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">(713)&nbsp;207-6500</FONT> </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">2 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_4"></A>ABOUT CENTERPOINT ENERGY, INC. </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are a public utility holding company. Our operating subsidiaries own and operate electric transmission, distribution and generation
facilities and natural gas distribution facilities and provide energy services and other related activities. As of the date of this prospectus, our indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries include: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC (&#147;Houston Electric&#148;) provides electric transmission service to
transmission service customers in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas region and distribution service to retail electric providers (&#147;REPs&#148;) serving the Texas gulf coast area that includes the city of Houston. CenterPoint Energy
Transition Bond Company IV, LLC is a wholly-owned, bankruptcy remote entity formed solely for the purpose of purchasing and owning transition property through the issuance of transition bonds. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp. (&#147;CERC Corp.&#148;) (i) directly owns and operates natural gas
distribution systems in Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi and Texas; (ii)&nbsp;indirectly, through Indiana Gas Company, Inc. (&#147;Indiana Gas&#148;) and Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio, LLC (&#147;VEDO&#148;), owns and operates natural gas
distribution systems in Indiana and Ohio, respectively, and (iii)&nbsp;owns and operates permanent pipeline connections through interconnects with various interstate and intrastate pipeline companies through CenterPoint Energy Intrastate Pipelines,
LLC. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (&#147;SIGECO&#148;) provides energy delivery services to electric and
natural gas customers located in and near Evansville in southwestern Indiana and owns and operates electric generation assets to serve its electric customers and optimizes those assets in the wholesale power market. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
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<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">Energy Systems Group, LLC (&#147;Energy Systems Group&#148;) provides energy performance contracting and
sustainable infrastructure services, such as renewables, distributed generation and combined heat and power projects. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our principal executive offices are located at 1111 Louisiana, Houston, Texas 77002 (telephone number:
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">(713)&nbsp;207-1111).</FONT> </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">3 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_5"></A>RISK FACTORS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our businesses are influenced by many factors that are difficult to predict and that involve uncertainties that may materially affect actual
operating results, cash flows and financial condition. These risk factors include those described as such in the documents that are incorporated by reference in this prospectus (which risk factors are incorporated herein by reference), and could
include additional uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently do not consider material. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider these risks as well as any other information we include or incorporate by
reference in this prospectus or include in any applicable prospectus supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_6"></A>CAUTIONARY STATEMENT
REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In this prospectus, including the information we incorporate by reference, we make statements
concerning our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are &#147;forward-looking statements&#148;
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these statements. You can generally identify our forward-looking statements by the words
&#147;anticipate,&#148; &#147;believe,&#148; &#147;continue,&#148; &#147;could,&#148; &#147;estimate,&#148; &#147;expect,&#148; &#147;forecast,&#148; &#147;goal,&#148; &#147;intend,&#148; &#147;may,&#148; &#147;objective,&#148; &#147;plan,&#148;
&#147;potential,&#148; &#147;predict,&#148; &#147;projection,&#148; &#147;should,&#148; &#147;target,&#148; &#147;will&#148; or other similar words. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We have based our forward-looking statements on our management&#146;s beliefs and assumptions based on information reasonably available to our
management at the time the statements are made. We caution you that assumptions, beliefs, expectations, intentions and projections about future events may and often do vary materially from actual results. Therefore, we cannot assure you that actual
results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following are some of the
factors that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our business strategies and strategic initiatives, restructurings, including CERC Corp.&#146;s common control
acquisition of Indiana Gas and VEDO from Vectren Utility Holdings, LLC on June&nbsp;30, 2022, joint ventures and acquisitions or dispositions of assets or businesses, including the completed sale of CERC Corp.&#146;s natural gas businesses in
Arkansas and Oklahoma and our exit of the midstream sector, which we cannot assure will have the anticipated benefits to us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">industrial, commercial and residential growth in our service territories and changes in market demand, including
the demand for our <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-utility</FONT> products and services and effects of energy efficiency measures and demographic patterns; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to fund and invest planned capital and the timely recovery of our investments, including those
related to SIGECO&#146;s electric transmission and distribution service&#146;s generation transition plan as part of its Integrated Resource Plans; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to successfully construct, operate, repair and maintain electric generating facilities, natural gas
facilities, temporary emergency electric energy facilities (&#147;TEEEF&#148;) and electric transmission facilities, including complying with applicable environmental standards and the implementation of a well-balanced energy and resource mix, as
appropriate; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">timely and appropriate rate actions that allow recovery of costs and a reasonable return on investment, including
the timing and amount of recovery of Houston Electric&#146;s TEEEF leases; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">economic conditions in regional and national markets, including inflation, interest rates and instability of
banking institutions, and their effect on sales, prices and costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">4 </P>

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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">weather variations and other natural phenomena, including the impact of severe weather events on operations,
capital and legislation, such as seen in connection with the extreme and unprecedented winter weather event in February 2021 that resulted in electricity generation supply shortages, including in Texas, and natural gas supply shortages and increased
wholesale prices of natural gas in the United States, primarily due to prolonged freezing temperatures (&#147;February 2021 Winter Storm Event&#148;); </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">increases in commodity prices; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">volatility in the markets for natural gas as a result of, among other factors, armed conflicts, including the
conflict in Ukraine and the related sanctions on certain Russian entities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes in rates of inflation; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">continued disruptions to the global supply chain, including tariffs and other legislation impacting the supply
chain, that could prevent us from securing the resources needed to, among other things, fully execute on our <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-year</FONT> capital plan or achieve our net zero and carbon emissions reduction goals;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-payment</FONT> for our services due to financial distress of our customers
and the ability of REPs to satisfy their obligations to us and Houston Electric, including the negative impact on such ability related to adverse economic conditions and severe weather events; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">public health threats, such as <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">COVID-19,</FONT> and their effect on our
operations, business and financial condition, our industries and the communities we serve, U.S. and world financial markets and supply chains, potential regulatory actions and changes in customer and stakeholder behavior relating thereto;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">state and federal legislative and regulatory actions or developments affecting various aspects of our businesses,
including, among others, energy deregulation or <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">re-regulation,</FONT> pipeline integrity and safety and changes in regulation and legislation pertaining to trade, health care, finance and actions regarding the rates
charged by our regulated businesses; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">direct or indirect effects on our facilities, resources, operations and financial condition resulting from
terrorism, cyber attacks or intrusions, data security breaches or other attempts to disrupt our businesses or the businesses of third parties, or other catastrophic events such as fires, ice, earthquakes, explosions, leaks, floods, droughts,
hurricanes, tornadoes and other severe weather events, pandemic health events or other occurrences; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">tax legislation, including the effects of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and the
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (which includes but is not limited to any potential changes to tax rates, Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax imposed, tax credits and/or interest deductibility), as well as any changes in tax laws under the current or
future administrations, and uncertainties involving state commissions&#146; and local municipalities&#146; regulatory requirements and determinations regarding the treatment of excess deferred income taxes and our rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to mitigate weather impacts through normalization or rate mechanisms, and the effectiveness of such
mechanisms; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">actions by credit rating agencies, including any potential downgrades to credit ratings; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">matters affecting regulatory approval, legislative actions, construction, implementation of necessary technology
or other issues with respect to major capital projects that result in delays or cancellation or in cost overruns that cannot be recouped in rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">local, state and federal legislative and regulatory actions or developments relating to the environment,
including, among others, those related to global climate change, air emissions, carbon, waste water discharges and the handling and disposal of coal combustion residuals that could impact operations, cost recovery of generation plant costs and
related assets, and our net zero and carbon emissions reduction goals; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">5 </P>

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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the impact of unplanned facility outages or other closures; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the sufficiency of our insurance coverage, including availability, cost, coverage and terms and ability to
recover claims; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the availability and prices of raw materials and services and changes in labor for current and future
construction projects and operations and maintenance costs, including our ability to control such costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">impacts from our pension and postretirement benefit plans, such as the investment performance and increases to
net periodic costs as a result of plan settlements and changes in discount rates; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes in interest rates and their impact on costs of borrowing and the valuation of our pension benefit
obligation; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">commercial bank and financial market conditions, including the current disruptions in the banking industry, our
access to capital, the cost of such capital, impacts on our vendors, customers and suppliers, and the results of our financing and refinancing efforts, including availability of funds in the debt capital markets; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">inability of various counterparties to meet their obligations to us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-payment</FONT> for our services due to financial distress of our customers;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the extent and effectiveness of our risk management activities; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">timely and appropriate regulatory actions, which include actions allowing securitization, for any hurricanes or
other severe weather events, or natural disasters or other recovery of costs, including stranded coal generation asset costs; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">acquisition and merger or divestiture activities involving us or our industry, including the ability to
successfully complete merger, acquisition and divestiture plans; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to recruit, effectively transition and retain management and key employees and maintain good labor
relations; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes in technology, particularly with respect to efficient battery storage or the emergence or growth of new,
developing or alternative sources of generation, and their adoption by consumers; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the impact of climate change and alternate energy sources on the demand for natural gas and electricity generated
or transmitted by us; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the timing and outcome of any audits, disputes and other proceedings related to taxes; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the recording of impairment charges; </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">political and economic developments, including energy and environmental policies under the current
administration; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the transition to a replacement for the London Interbank Offered Rate benchmark interest rate;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our ability to execute on our strategy, initiatives, targets and goals, including our net zero and carbon
emissions reduction goals and our operations and maintenance expenditure goals; </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the outcome of litigation, including litigation related to the February 2021 Winter Storm Event;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the development of new opportunities and the performance of projects undertaken by Energy Systems Group, which
are subject to, among other factors, the level of success in bidding contracts and cancellation and/or reductions in the scope of projects by customers, and obligations related to warranties, guarantees and other contractual and legal obligations;
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the effect of changes in and application of accounting standards and pronouncements; and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">6 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">other factors discussed in &#147;Risk Factors&#148; in Item&nbsp;1A of Part&nbsp;I of our Annual Report on Form <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the fiscal year ended December&nbsp;31, 2022, which are incorporated herein by reference, and in other reports we file from time to time with the SEC that are incorporated by reference.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the
date of the particular statement, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">7 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_7"></A>USE OF PROCEEDS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, we anticipate using any net proceeds from the sale of our securities offered by
this prospectus for general corporate purposes. These purposes may include, but are not limited to: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">working capital, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">capital expenditures, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">acquisitions, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the repayment or refinancing of debt, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">loans or advances to subsidiaries. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Pending any specific application, we may initially invest funds, loan funds to affiliates or apply them to the reduction of short-term
indebtedness, commercial paper or debt under our revolving credit facility. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">8 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_8"></A>DESCRIPTION OF OUR DEBT SECURITIES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The debt securities offered by this prospectus will be CenterPoint Energy&#146;s general unsecured obligations. CenterPoint Energy will issue
senior debt securities (&#147;senior debt securities&#148;) under an indenture, dated as of May&nbsp;19, 2003, between CenterPoint Energy and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust&nbsp;Company, National Association (successor in trust to JPMorgan Chase
Bank), as trustee (as supplemented from time to time, the &#147;senior indenture&#148;) and junior subordinated debt securities (&#147;junior subordinated debt securities&#148;) under a separate indenture to be entered into between us and The Bank
of New York Mellon Trust&nbsp;Company, National Association, as trustee (as supplemented from time to time, the &#147;junior subordinated indenture&#148;). We will refer to the senior indenture and the junior subordinated indenture together as the
&#147;indentures,&#148; and each as an &#147;indenture.&#148; The indentures will be substantially identical, except for provisions relating to subordination and covenants. We have filed, through incorporation by reference, the senior indenture and
a form of the junior subordinated indenture as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. We have summarized selected provisions of the indentures and the debt securities below. This summary is not complete and is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the indentures. References to section numbers in this description of our debt securities, unless otherwise indicated, are references to section numbers of the indentures. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">You should carefully read the summary below, the applicable prospectus supplement and the provisions of the applicable indenture that may be
important to you before investing in our senior debt securities or junior subordinated debt securities. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Provisions Applicable to Each Indenture
</B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>General.</I>&nbsp;We may issue debt securities from time to time in one or more series under the applicable indenture. There is no
limitation on the amount of debt securities we may issue under either indenture. We will describe the particular terms of each series of debt securities we offer in a supplement to this prospectus. The terms of our debt securities will include those
set forth in the applicable indenture and those made a part of such indenture by the Trust&nbsp;Indenture Act of 1939, as amended (the &#147;Trust&nbsp;Indenture Act&#148;). </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to the exceptions, and subject to compliance with the applicable requirements set forth in the applicable indenture, we may discharge
our obligations under the indentures with respect to our debt securities as described below under &#147;&#151;&nbsp;Defeasance.&#148; </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Terms.</I>&nbsp;We will describe the specific terms of the series of debt securities being offered in a supplement to this prospectus.
These terms will include some or all of the following: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the title of the debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">whether the debt securities are senior debt securities or junior subordinated debt securities,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any limit on the total principal amount of the debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the date or dates on which the principal of the debt securities will be payable or the method used to determine
or extend those dates, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any interest rate on the debt securities, any date from which interest will accrue, any interest payment dates
and regular record dates for interest payments, or the method used to determine any of the foregoing, the basis for calculating interest if other than a <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">360-day</FONT> year of twelve
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">30-day</FONT> months and any right to extend or defer interest payments and the duration of such extension or deferral, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the place or places where payments on the debt securities will be payable, the debt securities may be presented
for registration of transfer or exchange, and notices and demands to or upon us relating to the debt securities may be made, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any provisions that would allow or obligate us to redeem or purchase the debt securities prior to their maturity,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">9 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the denominations in which we will issue the debt securities, if other than denominations of an integral multiple
of $1,000, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any provisions that would determine payments on the debt securities by reference to an index or a formula,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any foreign currency, currencies or currency units in which payments on the debt securities will be payable and
the manner for determining the equivalent amount in U.S. dollars ($), </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any provisions for payments on the debt securities in one or more currencies or currency units other than those
in which the debt securities are stated to be payable, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the percentage of the principal amount at which the debt securities will be issued and the portion of the
principal amount of the debt securities that will be payable if the maturity of the debt securities is accelerated, if other than the entire principal amount, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">if the principal amount to be paid at the stated maturity of the debt securities is not determinable as of one or
more dates prior to the stated maturity, the amount that will be deemed to be the principal amount as of any such date for any purpose, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any variation of the defeasance and covenant defeasance sections of the applicable indenture and the manner in
which our election to defease the debt securities will be evidenced, if other than by a board resolution, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">whether we will issue the debt securities in the form of temporary or permanent global securities, the
depositories for the global securities, and provisions for exchanging or transferring the global securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">whether the interest rate of the debt securities may be reset, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">whether the stated maturity of the debt securities may be extended, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any addition to or change in the events of default for the debt securities and any change in the right of the
trustee or the holders of the debt securities to declare the principal amount of the debt securities due and payable, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any addition to or change in the covenants in the applicable indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any additions or changes to the applicable indenture necessary to issue the debt securities in bearer form,
registrable or not registrable as to principal, and with or without interest coupons, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the appointment of any paying agents for the debt securities, if other than the trustee, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the terms of any right to convert or exchange the debt securities into any other securities or property,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the terms and conditions, if any, pursuant to which the debt securities are secured, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any restriction or condition on the transferability of the debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">with respect to the junior subordinated indenture, any changes to the subordination provisions for the junior
subordinated debt securities,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any other terms of the debt securities consistent with the applicable indenture. (Section&nbsp;301)
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Any limit on the maximum total principal amount for any series of the debt securities may be increased by resolution of
our board of directors. We may sell the debt securities, including original issue discount securities, at a substantial discount below their stated principal amount. If there are any special United States federal income tax considerations applicable
to debt securities we sell at an original issue discount, we will describe them in the prospectus supplement. In addition, we will describe in the prospectus supplement any special United States federal income tax considerations and any other
special considerations for any debt securities we sell which are denominated in a currency or currency unit other than U.S.&nbsp;dollars. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">10 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Form, Exchange and Transfer.</I>&nbsp;We will issue the debt securities in registered
form, without coupons. Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, we will only issue debt securities in denominations of integral multiples of $1,000. (Section&nbsp;302) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders generally will be able to exchange debt securities for other debt securities of the same series with the same total principal amount
and the same terms but in different authorized denominations. (Section&nbsp;305) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders may present debt securities for exchange or for
registration of transfer at the office of the security registrar or at the office of any transfer agent we designate for that purpose. The security registrar or designated transfer agent will exchange or transfer the debt securities if it is
satisfied with the documents of title and identity of the person making the request. We will not charge a service charge for any exchange or registration of transfer of debt securities. However, we may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover
any tax or other governmental charge payable for the registration of transfer or exchange. Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, we will appoint the trustee as security registrar. We will identify any transfer agent in
addition to the security registrar in the prospectus supplement. (Section&nbsp;305)&nbsp;At any time we may: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">designate additional transfer agents, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">rescind the designation of any transfer agent, or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">approve a change in the office of any transfer agent. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">However, we are required to maintain a transfer agent in each place of payment for the debt securities at all times. (Sections&nbsp;305 and 1002) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we elect to redeem a series of debt securities, neither we nor the trustee will be required: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">to issue, register the transfer of or exchange any debt securities of that series during the period beginning at
the opening of business 15&nbsp;days before the day we mail the notice of redemption for the series and ending at the close of business on the day the notice is mailed,&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">to register the transfer or exchange of any debt security of that series if we have selected the series for
redemption, in whole or in part, except for the unredeemed portion of the series. (Section&nbsp;305) </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Book-entry.</I>&nbsp;We may issue the debt securities of a series in the form of one or more global debt securities that would be deposited
with a depositary or its nominee identified in the prospectus supplement. We may issue global debt securities in either temporary or permanent form. We will describe in the prospectus supplement the terms of any depositary arrangement and the rights
and limitations of owners of beneficial interests in any global debt security. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Payment and Paying Agents.</I>&nbsp;Under both
indentures, we will pay interest on the debt securities to the persons in whose names the debt securities are registered at the close of business on the regular record date for each interest payment. However, unless we inform you otherwise in the
prospectus supplement, we will pay the interest payable on the debt securities at their stated maturity to the persons to whom we pay the principal amount of the debt securities. The initial payment of interest on any series of debt securities
issued between a regular record date and the related interest payment date will be payable in the manner provided by the terms of the series, which we will describe in the prospectus supplement. (Section&nbsp;307) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, we will pay principal, premium, if any, and interest on the debt securities at
the offices of the paying agents we designate. However, except in the case of a global security, we may pay interest by: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">check mailed to the address of the person entitled to the payment as it appears in the security register,&nbsp;or
</P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">11 </P>

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<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">by wire transfer in immediately available funds to the place and account designated in writing by the person
entitled to the payment as specified in the security register. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will designate the trustee as the sole paying agent
for the debt securities unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement. If we initially designate any other paying agents for a series of debt securities, we will identify them in the prospectus supplement. At any time, we may designate
additional paying agents or rescind the designation of any paying agents. However, we are required to maintain a paying agent in each place of payment for the debt securities at all times. (Sections&nbsp;307 and 1002) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Any money deposited with the trustee or any paying agent for the payment of principal, premium, if any, and interest on the debt securities
that remains unclaimed for two years after the date the payments became due, may be repaid to us upon our request. After we have been repaid, holders entitled to those payments may only look to us for payment as our unsecured general creditors. The
trustee and any paying agents will not be liable for those payments after we have been repaid. (Section&nbsp;1003) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Restrictive
Covenants.</I>&nbsp;We will describe any restrictive covenants for any series of debt securities in the prospectus supplement. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Consolidation, Merger and Sale of Assets.</I>&nbsp;Under both indentures, we may not consolidate with or merge into, or convey, transfer or
lease our properties and assets substantially as an entirety to, any person, referred to as a &#147;successor person&#148; unless: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the successor person is a corporation, partnership, trust or other entity organized and validly existing under
the laws of the United States of America or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the successor person expressly assumes our obligations with respect to the debt securities and the applicable
indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">immediately after giving effect to the transaction, no event of default, and no event which, after notice or
lapse of time or both, would become an event of default, would occur and be continuing,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">we have delivered to the trustee the certificates and opinions required under the applicable indenture.
(Section&nbsp;801) </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">As used in the indenture, the term &#147;corporation&#148; means a corporation, association,
company, limited liability company, joint-stock company or business trust. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Events of Default.</I>&nbsp;Unless we inform you otherwise
in the prospectus supplement, each of the following will be an event of default under each indenture for a series of debt securities: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our failure to pay principal or premium, if any, on that series when due, including at maturity or upon
redemption or acceleration, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our failure to pay any interest on that series for 30&nbsp;days after the interest becomes due,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our failure to deposit any sinking fund payment, when due, relating to that series, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">our failure to perform, or our breach in any material respect of, any other covenant or warranty in the
applicable indenture, other than a covenant or warranty included in such indenture solely for the benefit of another series of debt securities, for 90&nbsp;days after either the trustee or holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the
outstanding debt securities of that series have given us written notice of the breach in the manner required by the applicable indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">specified events involving our bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any other event of default we may provide for that series, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">12 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">provided, however, that no event described in the fourth bullet point above will be an event of default
until an officer of the trustee, assigned to and working in the trustee&#146;s corporate trust department, has actual knowledge of the event or until the trustee receives written notice of the event at its corporate trust office. (Section&nbsp;501)
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If an event of default for a series of debt securities occurs and is continuing, either the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in
principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of that series may declare the principal amount of all the debt securities of that series due and immediately payable. To declare the principal amount of that series of debt securities due and
immediately payable, the trustee or the holders must deliver a notice that satisfies the requirements of the applicable indenture. Upon a declaration by the trustee or the holders, we will be obligated to pay the principal amount of the series of
debt securities. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The right described in the preceding paragraph does not apply if an event of default described in the fifth bullet point
above occurs, or an event of default described in the sixth bullet point above that applies to all outstanding debt securities under the applicable indenture occurs. If one of the events of default described in the fifth bullet point above occurs
with respect to the debt securities of any series, the debt securities of that series then outstanding under the applicable indenture will be due and payable immediately. If any of the events of default described in the sixth bullet point above that
apply to all outstanding debt securities under an indenture occurs and is continuing, either the trustee or holders of at least 25% in principal amount of all of the debt securities then outstanding under the applicable indenture, treated as one
class, may declare the principal amount of all of the debt securities then outstanding under such indenture to be due and payable immediately. To declare the principal amount of the debt securities due and immediately payable, the trustee or the
holders must deliver a notice that satisfies the requirements of the applicable indenture. Upon a declaration by the trustee or the holders, we will be obligated to pay the principal amount of the debt securities. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">However, after any declaration of acceleration of a series of debt securities, but before a judgment or decree for payment has been obtained,
the event of default giving rise to the declaration of acceleration will, without further act, be deemed to have been waived, and such declaration and its consequences will, without further act, be deemed to have been rescinded and annulled if: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">we have paid or deposited with the trustee a sum sufficient to pay: </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="10%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">all overdue interest, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="10%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the principal and premium, if any, due otherwise than by the declaration of acceleration and any interest on such
amounts, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="10%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any interest on overdue interest, to the extent legally permitted,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="10%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">all amounts due to the trustee under the applicable indenture,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="10%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="2%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">all events of default with respect to that series of debt securities, other than the nonpayment of the principal
which became due solely by virtue of the declaration of acceleration, have been cured or waived. (Section&nbsp;502) </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If
an event of default occurs and is continuing, the trustee will generally have no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under the applicable indenture at the request or direction of any of the holders, unless the holders offer reasonable
indemnity to the trustee. (Section&nbsp;603)&nbsp;The holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of any series will generally have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any
remedy available to the trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on the trustee for the debt securities of that series, provided that: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the direction is not in conflict with any law or the applicable indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the trustee may take any other action it deems proper which is not inconsistent with the direction,&nbsp;and
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the trustee will have the right to decline to follow the direction if an officer of the trustee determines, in
good faith, that the proceeding would involve the trustee in personal liability or would otherwise be contrary to applicable law. (Section&nbsp;512) </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">13 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">A holder of a debt security of any series may only pursue a remedy under the applicable
indenture if: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the holder gives the trustee written notice of a continuing event of default for that series,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of that series make a written
request to the trustee to institute proceedings with respect to the event of default, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the holders offer reasonable indemnity to the trustee, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the trustee fails to pursue that remedy within 60&nbsp;days after receipt of the notice, request and offer of
indemnity,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">during that <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">60-day</FONT> period, the holders of a majority in principal amount
of the debt securities of that series do not give the trustee a direction inconsistent with the request. (Section&nbsp;507) </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">However, these limitations do not apply to a suit by a holder of a debt security demanding payment of the principal, premium, if any, or
interest on a debt security on or after the date the payment is due. (Section&nbsp;508) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will be required to furnish to the trustee
annually a statement by some of our officers regarding our performance or observance of any of the terms of the applicable indenture and specifying all of our known defaults, if any. (Section&nbsp;1004) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Modification and Waiver.</I>&nbsp;We may enter into one or more supplemental indentures to either indenture with the trustee without the
consent of the holders of the debt securities to: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">evidence the succession of another corporation to us, or successive successions and the assumption of our
covenants, agreements and obligations by a successor, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">add to our covenants for the benefit of the holders of any series of debt securities or to surrender any of our
rights or powers, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">add events of default for any series of debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">add to or change any provision of the applicable indenture to the extent necessary to issue debt securities in
bearer form, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">add to, change or eliminate any provision of the applicable indenture applying to one or more series of debt
securities, including, for the junior subordinated indenture, the subordination provisions, provided that if such action adversely affects the interests of any holder of any series of debt securities issued thereunder, the addition, change or
elimination will become effective with respect to that series only when no security of that series remains outstanding, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">convey, transfer, assign, mortgage or pledge any property to or with the trustee or to surrender any right or
power conferred upon us by the applicable indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">establish the form or terms of any series of debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">provide for uncertificated securities in addition to certificated securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">evidence and provide for successor trustees or to add to or change any provisions to the extent necessary to
appoint a separate trustee or trustees for a specific series of debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">correct any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency under the applicable indenture, provided that such action does not
adversely affect the interests of the holders of any series of debt securities issued thereunder, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">supplement any provisions of the applicable indenture necessary to defease and discharge any series of debt
securities, provided that such action does not adversely affect the interests of the holders of any series of debt securities issued thereunder, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on which any debt
securities are listed or traded,&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">14 </P>

</DIV></Center>


<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
<HR SIZE="3" style="COLOR:#999999" WIDTH="100%" ALIGN="CENTER">
<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">add, change or eliminate any provisions of the applicable indenture in accordance with any amendments to the
Trust&nbsp;Indenture Act, provided that the action does not adversely affect the rights or interests of any holder of debt securities issued thereunder. (Section&nbsp;901) </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may enter into one or more supplemental indentures to either indenture with the trustee to add to, change or eliminate provisions of such
indenture or to modify the rights of the holders of one or more series of debt securities if we obtain the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of each series affected by the supplemental
indenture, treated as one class. However, without the consent of the holders of each outstanding debt security affected by the supplemental indenture, we may not enter into a supplemental indenture that: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes the stated maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or interest on, any debt
security, except to the extent permitted by the applicable indenture, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">reduces the principal amount of, or any premium or interest on, any debt security, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">reduces the amount of principal of an original issue discount security or any other debt security payable upon
acceleration of the maturity thereof, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes the place or currency of payment of principal, premium, if any, or interest, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">impairs the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on any debt security,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">reduces the percentage in principal amount of outstanding debt securities of any series, the consent of whose
holders is required for modification of the applicable indenture, for waiver of compliance with certain provisions of such indenture or for waiver of certain defaults, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">makes certain modifications to the provisions for modification of the applicable indenture and for certain
waivers, except to increase the principal amount of debt securities necessary to consent to any such charge, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">in the case of the junior subordinated indenture, modifies the subordination provisions in a manner adverse to
the holders of the junior subordinated debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">makes any change that adversely affects the right to convert or exchange any debt security or decreases the
conversion or exchange rate or increases the conversion price of any convertible or exchangeable debt security,&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">changes the terms and conditions pursuant to which any series of debt securities is secured in a manner adverse
to the holders of the debt securities. (Section&nbsp;902) </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In addition, we may not modify the subordination provisions
of any outstanding junior subordinated debt securities without the consent of each holder of our senior indebtedness that would be adversely affected thereby. The term &#147;senior indebtedness&#148; is defined below under
&#147;&#151;&nbsp;Provisions Applicable Solely to Junior Subordinated Debt Securities&nbsp;&#151; Subordination.&#148; </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders of a
majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of any series may waive past defaults or noncompliance with restrictive provisions of the applicable indenture with respect to such series. However, the consent of holders of each
outstanding debt security of a series is required to: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">waive any default in the payment of principal, premium, if any, or interest,&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">waive any covenants and provisions of the applicable indenture that may not be amended without the consent of the
holder of each outstanding debt security of the series affected. (Sections&nbsp;513 and 1006) </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">To determine whether the
holders of the requisite principal amount of the outstanding debt securities have taken an action under the applicable indenture as of a specified date: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the principal amount of an &#147;original issue discount security&#148; that will be deemed to be outstanding
will be the amount of the principal that would be due and payable as of that date upon acceleration of the maturity to that date, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">15 </P>

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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">if, as of that date, the principal amount payable at the stated maturity of a debt security is not determinable,
for example, because it is based on an index, the principal amount of the debt security deemed to be outstanding as of that date will be an amount determined in the manner prescribed for the debt security, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the principal amount of a debt security denominated in one or more foreign currencies or currency units that will
be deemed to be outstanding will be the U.S.&nbsp;dollar equivalent, determined as of that date in the manner prescribed for the debt security, of the principal amount of the debt security or, in the case of a debt security described in the two
preceding bullet points, of the amount described above,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">debt securities owned by us or any other obligor upon the debt securities or any of our or their affiliates will
be disregarded and deemed not to be outstanding. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">An &#147;original issue discount security&#148; means a debt security
issued under either indenture which provides for an amount less than the principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of maturity. Some debt securities, including those for the payment or redemption of which
money has been deposited or set aside in trust for the holders and those that have been fully defeased pursuant to Section&nbsp;1402 of both indentures, will not be deemed to be outstanding. (Section&nbsp;101) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will generally be entitled to set any day as a record date for determining the holders of outstanding debt securities of any series
entitled to give or take any direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action under the applicable indenture. In limited circumstances, the trustee will be entitled to set a record date for action by holders of outstanding debt securities. If a
record date is set for any action to be taken by holders of a particular series, the action may be taken only by persons who are holders of outstanding debt securities of that series on the record date. To be effective, the action must be taken by
holders of the requisite principal amount of debt securities within a specified period following the record date. For any particular record date, this period will be 180&nbsp;days or such shorter period as we may specify, or the trustee may specify,
if it set the record date. (Section&nbsp;104) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Satisfaction and Discharge.</I>&nbsp;We may discharge our obligations under either
indenture while debt securities remain outstanding if (1)&nbsp;all outstanding debt securities issued under the applicable indenture have become due and payable, (2)&nbsp;all outstanding debt securities issued under the applicable indenture will
become due and payable at their scheduled maturity within one year, or (3)&nbsp;all outstanding debt securities issued under the applicable indenture are scheduled for redemption in one year, and in each case, we have deposited with the trustee an
amount sufficient to pay and discharge all outstanding debt securities issued under the applicable indenture on the date of their scheduled maturity or the scheduled date of redemption and we have paid all other sums payable under the applicable
indenture. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Defeasance.</I>&nbsp;When we use the term defeasance, we mean discharge from some or all of our obligations under either
indenture. Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, if we deposit with the trustee funds or government securities sufficient to make payments on the debt securities of a series on the dates those payments are due and payable,
then, at our option, either of the following will occur: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">we will be discharged from our obligations with respect to the debt securities of that series (&#147;legal
defeasance&#148;),&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">we will no longer have any obligation to comply with the restrictive covenants under the applicable indenture,
and the related events of default will no longer apply to us, but some of our other obligations under the indenture and the debt securities of that series, including our obligation to make payments on those debt securities, will survive.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we effect legal defeasance of a series of debt securities, the holders of the debt securities of the series affected
will not be entitled to the benefits of the applicable indenture, except for our obligations to: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">register the transfer or exchange of debt securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">16 </P>

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<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">replace mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen debt securities, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">maintain paying agencies and hold moneys for payment in trust. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, we will be required to deliver to the trustee an opinion of counsel that the
deposit and related defeasance would not cause the holders of the debt securities to recognize gain or loss for federal income tax purposes and that the holders would be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at
the same times as would have been the case if the deposit and related defeasance had not occurred. If we elect legal defeasance, that opinion of counsel must be based upon a ruling from the United States Internal Revenue Service or a change in law
to that effect. (Sections&nbsp;1401, 1402, 1403 and 1404) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Notices.</I>&nbsp;Holders will receive notices by mail at their addresses as
they appear in the security register or as otherwise specified in the applicable indenture. (Section&nbsp;106) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Title.</I>&nbsp;We may
treat the person in whose name a debt security is registered on the applicable record date as the owner of the debt security for all purposes, whether or not it is overdue. (Section&nbsp;309) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Governing Law.</I>&nbsp;New York law will govern both indentures and the debt securities. (Section&nbsp;112) </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Regarding the Trustee.</I>&nbsp;As of March&nbsp;31, 2023, the trustee served as trustee for approximately $3.9&nbsp;billion aggregate
principal amount of our debt securities (on an unconsolidated basis). In addition, the trustee serves as trustee for debt securities issued by or on behalf of our subsidiaries, aggregating approximately $10.9&nbsp;billion as of March&nbsp;31, 2023.
We maintain brokerage relationships with the trustee and its affiliates, each of whom may maintain other relationships with us or our affiliates in the ordinary course of business. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If an event of default occurs under either indenture and is continuing, the trustee will be required to use the degree of care and skill of a
prudent person in the conduct of that person&#146;s own affairs. The trustee will become obligated to exercise any of its powers under the applicable indenture at the request of any of the holders of any debt securities issued under such indenture
only after those holders have offered the trustee indemnity satisfactory to&nbsp;it. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If the trustee becomes one of our creditors, its
rights to obtain payment of claims in specified circumstances, or to realize for its own account on certain property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise will be limited under the terms of the applicable indenture.
(Section&nbsp;613)&nbsp;The trustee may engage in certain other transactions; however, if the trustee acquires any conflicting interest (within the meaning specified under the Trust&nbsp;Indenture Act), it will be required to eliminate the conflict
or resign. (Section&nbsp;608) </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Provisions Applicable Solely to Senior Debt Securities </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Ranking.</I>&nbsp;Our senior debt securities will rank equally in right of payment with all of our other existing and future unsecured and
unsubordinated indebtedness. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Provisions Applicable Solely to Junior Subordinated Debt Securities </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Subordination.</I>&nbsp;The junior subordinated debt securities are subordinate and junior in right of payment, to the extent and in the
manner stated in the junior subordinated indenture, to all of our senior indebtedness, as defined in the junior subordinated indenture. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless we inform you otherwise in a prospectus supplement, &#147;senior indebtedness&#148; means: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">all indebtedness and obligations of, or guaranteed or assumed by, us for borrowed money or evidenced by bonds,
debentures, notes or other similar instruments, whether existing on the date of the junior subordinated indenture or subsequently created, incurred or assumed,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">17 </P>

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<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">all amendments, renewals, extensions, modifications and refundings of any indebtedness or obligations of that
kind. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Notwithstanding the foregoing, &#147;senior indebtedness&#148; excludes (i)&nbsp;our indebtedness to our
subsidiaries, (ii)&nbsp;trade accounts payable and accrued liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business and (iii)&nbsp;the junior subordinated debt securities and any other indebtedness or obligations that would otherwise constitute
indebtedness if it is specifically designated as being subordinate, or not superior, in right of payment to the junior subordinated debt securities. &#147;Senior indebtedness&#148; includes, as of March&nbsp;31, 2023, $828&nbsp;million of our 2.0%
Zero-Premium Exchangeable Subordinated Notes due 2029. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We will describe additional provisions of our junior subordinated debt securities
in a prospectus supplement applicable to the particular series of junior subordinated debt securities. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Defeasance.</I>&nbsp;Upon the
effectiveness of any defeasance or covenant defeasance permitted with respect to our junior subordinated securities, the junior subordinated debt securities then outstanding shall cease to be subordinated. See &#147;&#151;&nbsp;Provisions Applicable
to Each Indenture&nbsp;&#151; Defeasance.&#148; </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">18 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_9"></A>DESCRIPTION OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The following descriptions are summaries of material terms of our common stock, preferred stock, articles of incorporation and bylaws. This
summary is qualified by reference to our restated articles of incorporation and third amended and restated bylaws, each as amended to date, copies of which we have filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits to the registration statement of which
this prospectus is a part, and by the provisions of applicable law. As of March&nbsp;31, 2023, our authorized capital stock consisted of: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">1,000,000,000&nbsp;shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of which 631,018,976 shares were
outstanding, excluding 166&nbsp;shares held as treasury stock,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">20,000,000&nbsp;shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of which 800,000 shares of our Series A <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Floating</FONT></FONT> Rate Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (&#147;Series A Preferred Stock&#148;), with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the
&#147;Series A Preferred Stock Stated Amount&#148;), were outstanding. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Common Stock </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Voting Rights.</I>&nbsp;Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote for each share on all matters submitted to a vote of
shareholders, including the election of directors. There are no cumulative voting rights. Subject to the voting rights expressly conferred to the holders of our preferred stock, the holders of our common stock possess exclusive full voting power for
the election of directors and for all other purposes. Our bylaws provide that director nominees are elected by the vote of a majority of the votes cast with respect to the director by shareholders entitled to vote at the meeting in an uncontested
election. An election is contested if, at a specified time before we file our definitive proxy statement with the SEC, the number of nominees exceeds the number of directors to be elected, in which case directors will be elected by the vote of a
plurality of the votes cast by shareholders entitled to vote at the meeting. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Dividends.</I>&nbsp;Subject to preferences that may be
applicable to any of our outstanding preferred stock, the holders of our common stock are entitled to dividends when, as and if declared by the board of directors out of funds legally available for that purpose. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Liquidation Rights.</I>&nbsp;If we are liquidated, terminated or wound up, the holders of our common stock will be entitled to a pro rata
share in any distribution to shareholders, but only after satisfaction of all of our liabilities and of the prior rights of any outstanding class of our preferred stock, which may include the right to participate further with the holders of our
common stock in the distribution of any of our remaining assets. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Preemptive Rights.</I>&nbsp;Holders of our common stock are not
entitled to any preemptive or conversion rights or other subscription rights. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Transfer Agent and Registrar.</I>&nbsp;Broadridge
Corporate Issuer Solutions, Inc. serves as transfer agent and registrar for our common stock. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Other Provisions.</I>&nbsp;There are no
redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to our common stock. No personal liability will attach to holders of such shares under the laws of the State of Texas. Subject to the provisions of our articles of incorporation and bylaws imposing
certain supermajority voting provisions, the rights of the holders of shares of our common stock may not be modified except by a vote of at least a majority of the shares outstanding, voting together as a single class. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Preferred Stock </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our board of directors
may cause us to issue preferred stock from time to time in one or more series and may fix the number of shares and the terms of each series without the approval of our shareholders. Our board of directors may determine the terms of each series,
including: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the designation of the series, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">19 </P>

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<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">dividend rates and payment dates, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
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<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">whether dividends will be cumulative, <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">non-cumulative</FONT> or partially
cumulative, and related terms, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">redemption rights, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">liquidation rights, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">sinking fund provisions, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">conversion rights, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">voting rights, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any other terms. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The prospectus supplement relating to any series of preferred stock will include specific terms relating to the offering. We will file the
form of the preferred stock with the SEC before we issue any of it. The prospectus supplement for any offering of preferred stock will include some or all of the following terms: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the title of the preferred stock, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the maximum number of shares of the series, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the dividend rate or the method of calculating the dividend, the date from which dividends will accrue and
whether dividends will be cumulative, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any liquidation preference, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any optional redemption provisions, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any sinking fund or other provisions that would obligate us to redeem or purchase the preferred stock,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any terms for the conversion or exchange of the preferred stock for other securities of us or any other entity,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any voting rights,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any other preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights or any qualifications,
limitations or restrictions on the rights of the shares. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The issuance of preferred stock, while providing desired
flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions and other corporate purposes, could adversely affect the voting power of holders of our common stock. It could also affect the likelihood that holders of our common stock will receive dividend
payments and payments upon liquidation. The issuance of shares of preferred stock, or the issuance of rights to purchase shares of preferred stock, could be used to discourage an attempt to obtain control of us. For example, if, in the exercise of
its fiduciary obligations, our board were to determine that a takeover proposal was not in our best interest, the board could authorize the issuance of a series of preferred stock containing class voting rights that would enable the holder or
holders of the series to prevent or make the change of control transaction more difficult. Alternatively, a change of control transaction deemed by the board to be in our best interest could be facilitated by issuing a series of preferred stock
having sufficient voting rights to provide a required percentage vote of the shareholders. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Outstanding Series of Preferred Stock </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Series A Preferred Stock </I></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">On August&nbsp;21, 2018, we filed a statement of resolution (the &#147;Series A Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution&#148;) with the
Secretary of State of the State of Texas to establish the designation, powers, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions of the Series A Preferred Stock. The Series A Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution became effective
on August&nbsp;22, 2018. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">20 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Holders of Series A Preferred Stock are entitled to receive out of any funds legally
available, when, if and as declared by our board of directors (or a duly authorized committee of the board), cumulative cash dividends (1)&nbsp;for each dividend period during the period commencing on the original issue date and continuing to, but
excluding, September&nbsp;1, 2023, at an annual rate of 6.125% of the Series A Preferred Stock Stated Amount per share payable semi-annually in arrears on the 1st day of each March and September, respectively, in each year, beginning on
March&nbsp;1, 2019; and (2)&nbsp;for each dividend period during the period commencing on September&nbsp;1, 2023 and continuing to, but excluding, the first date, if any, as of which all shares of Series A Preferred Stock have been redeemed, at an
annual rate equal to three month LIBOR (as defined in the Series A Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution) for such dividend period plus a spread of 3.270% applied to the Series A Preferred Stock Stated Amount per share payable quarterly in arrears
on the 1st day of each March, June, September and December, respectively, in each year, beginning on December&nbsp;1, 2023. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The shares of
Series A Preferred Stock are perpetual and have no maturity date. The Series A Preferred Stock may be redeemed by us at our option (i)&nbsp;on or after September&nbsp;1, 2023, from time to time and in whole or in part, at a redemption price in cash
per share equal to $1,000, or (ii)&nbsp;following the occurrence of a ratings event (as defined in the Series A Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution), in whole, but not in part, at a redemption price in cash per share equal to $1,020, in each
case out of funds legally available for such redemption and plus an amount equal to all accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon to, but excluding, the redemption date, whether or not declared. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The Series A Preferred Stock will, with respect to anticipated dividends and distributions upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
our affairs, rank: senior to our common stock and to each other class or series of our capital stock established after the original issue date of the Series A Preferred Stock that is expressly made subordinated to the Series A Preferred Stock as to
the payment of dividends or amounts payable on a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs; on a parity with any class or series of our capital stock established after the original issue date of the Series A Preferred Stock that is not
expressly made senior or subordinated to the Series A Preferred Stock as to the payment of dividends and amounts payable on a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs; and junior to any class or series of our capital stock established
after the original issue date of the Series A Preferred Stock that is expressly made senior to the Series&nbsp;A Preferred Stock as to the payment of dividends or amounts payable on a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Except as required by the Texas Business Organizations Code (&#147;TBOC&#148;) or as described herein or in the Series A Preferred Stock
Statement of Resolution, the Series A Preferred Stock generally does not have voting rights. Whenever dividends on shares of Series A Preferred Stock have not been declared and paid for the equivalent of three or more semi-annual or six or more
quarterly dividend periods, whether or not consecutive, the holders of such shares of Series A Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class with holders of any and all other series of voting preferred stock (as defined in the Series A
Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution) then outstanding, will be entitled at our next annual or special meeting of shareholders to vote for the election of a total of two additional members of our board of directors, subject to certain
limitations. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Unless we have received the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">least&nbsp;two-thirds&nbsp;of</FONT> the outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock, voting as a single class, we may not amend our restated articles of incorporation or the Series A Preferred Stock Statement of
Resolution in a way that would have an adverse effect on the existing powers, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions of the Series A Preferred Stock. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In addition, unless we have received the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">least&nbsp;two-thirds&nbsp;of</FONT> the outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class with holders of any and all other series of voting preferred stock then outstanding, we may
not create or issue any series of our capital stock established after the original issue date of the Series A Preferred Stock that is expressly made senior to the Series A Preferred Stock as to the payment of dividends or amounts payable on
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">21 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Subject to certain exceptions, unless full cumulative dividends have been or
contemporaneously are being paid on all outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock and any parity stock through the most recently completed respective dividend periods, we (1)&nbsp;will not declare, or pay, or set aside for payment, dividends on
any junior stock (which includes our common stock) and (2)&nbsp;may not redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire shares of our common stock or any other junior stock. To the extent a dividend period applicable to a class of junior stock or parity
stock is shorter than the dividend period applicable to the Series A Preferred Stock (<I>e.g.</I>, quarterly rather than semi-annual), we may declare and pay regular dividends with respect to such junior stock or parity stock so long as, at the time
of declaration of such dividend, it expects to have sufficient funds to pay the full dividend in respect of the Series A Preferred Stock on the next successive dividend payment date. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Whenever dividends on shares of Series A Preferred Stock have not been declared and paid for the equivalent of three or more semi-annual or
six or more quarterly dividend periods, whether or not consecutive, the holders of such shares of Series A Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class with holders of any and all other series of our voting preferred stock then outstanding,
will be entitled to elect a total of two additional members of our board of directors, subject to certain limitations. This right shall terminate when all accumulated dividends have been paid in full and the authorized number of directors shall
automatically decrease by two, subject to the revesting of that right in the event of each subsequent nonpayment. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In the event of any
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive out of our assets available for distribution to shareholders, after satisfaction of
liabilities to creditors, if any, and subject to the rights of holders of our senior stock and parity stock in respect of distributions upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, and before any distribution of assets is made to holders of our
junior stock, a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share, plus accumulated and unpaid dividends. If, upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs, whether voluntary or involuntary, the amounts payable with respect to the
liquidation preference or an amount equal to accumulated and unpaid dividends of the Series A Preferred Stock and all parity stock, as the case may be, are not paid in full, the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and any parity stock will share
equally and ratably in any distribution of our assets in proportion to the respective liquidation preferences or amounts equal to accumulated and unpaid dividends, as applicable, to which they are entitled. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The foregoing description of the terms of the Series A Preferred Stock is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the
Series A Preferred Stock Statement of Resolution, a copy of which is filed, through incorporation by reference, as Exhibit 4.5 to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Anti-Takeover Effects of Texas Laws and Our Charter and Bylaw Provisions </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Some provisions of Texas law and our articles of incorporation and bylaws could make the following actions more difficult: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">acquisition of us by means of a tender offer, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">acquisition of control of us by means of a proxy contest or otherwise, or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">removal of our incumbent officers and directors. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">These provisions are designed to discourage coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids. These provisions are also designed to
encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to first negotiate with our board of directors. We believe that the benefits of this increased protection gives us the potential ability to negotiate with the proponent of an unfriendly or
unsolicited proposal to acquire or restructure us, and that the benefits of this increased protection outweigh the disadvantages of discouraging those proposals, because negotiation of those proposals could result in an improvement of their terms.
</P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">22 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Charter and Bylaw Provisions </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Election and Removal of Directors.</I>&nbsp;The number of members of our board of directors will be fixed from time to time by resolution of
the board of directors. Except for voting rights as may be provided to holders of preferred stock, at each annual meeting of shareholders, all directors are elected to hold office for a term expiring at the next succeeding annual meeting of
shareholders and until their successors have been elected and qualified. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">No director may be removed except for cause, and, subject to the
voting rights expressly conferred to the holders of our preferred stock, directors may be removed for cause only by the holders of at least a majority of the shares of capital stock entitled to vote at an election of directors. Subject to the voting
rights expressly conferred to the holders of our preferred stock, any vacancy occurring on the board of directors and any newly created directorship may be filled by a majority of the remaining directors in office or by election by the shareholders.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Shareholder Meetings.</I>&nbsp;Our articles of incorporation and bylaws provide that special meetings of holders of common stock may
be called only by the chairman of our board of directors, our chief executive officer, the president, the secretary, a majority of our board of directors or the holders of at least 50% of the shares of our capital stock outstanding and entitled to
vote. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Modification of Articles of Incorporation.</I>&nbsp;In general, amendments to our articles of incorporation that are recommended
by the board of directors require the affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the voting power of all outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote in the election of directors. The provisions described above under
&#147;&#151;&nbsp;Election and Removal of Directors&#148; and &#147;&#151;&nbsp;Shareholder Meetings&#148; may be amended only by the affirmative vote of holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of all outstanding shares of capital stock
entitled to vote in the election of directors. The provisions described below under &#147;&#151;&nbsp;Modification of Bylaws&#148; may be amended only by the affirmative vote of holders of at least 80% of the voting power of all outstanding shares
of capital stock entitled to vote in the election of directors. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Modification of Bylaws.</I>&nbsp;Our board of directors has the power
to alter, amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws by the affirmative vote of at least 80% of all directors then in office at any regular or special meeting of the board of directors called for that purpose. The shareholders also have the
power to alter, amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws by the affirmative vote of holders of at least 80% of the voting power of all outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote in the election of directors, voting together as a
single class. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Other Limitations on Shareholder Actions.</I>&nbsp;Our bylaws also impose some procedural requirements on shareholders
who wish to: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">make nominations in the election of directors, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">propose that a director be removed, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">propose any repeal or change in the bylaws, or </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">propose any other business to be brought before an annual or special meeting of shareholders.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Under these procedural requirements, a shareholder must deliver timely notice in proper written form to our secretary
of the nomination or proposal along with evidence of: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the shareholder&#146;s status as a shareholder, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the number of shares beneficially owned by the shareholder, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a list of the persons with whom the shareholder is acting in concert, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the number of shares such persons beneficially own. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">23 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">To be timely, a shareholder must deliver the notice: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">in connection with an annual meeting of shareholders, not less than 90 days nor more than 180&nbsp;days prior to
the first anniversary of the date on which the immediately preceding year&#146;s annual meeting of shareholders was held; provided that if the date of the annual meeting is advanced by more than 30&nbsp;days prior to or delayed by more than
60&nbsp;days after the first anniversary of the preceding year&#146;s annual meeting of shareholders, not earlier than 180&nbsp;days prior to the annual meeting and not later than the last to occur of (i)&nbsp;the 90th&nbsp;day prior to the annual
meeting or (ii)&nbsp;the 10th&nbsp;day following the day on which we first make public announcement of the date of the annual meeting,&nbsp;or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">in connection with the nomination of director candidates at a special meeting of shareholders, generally not less
than 40 days nor more than 60&nbsp;days prior to the date of the special meeting. </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">To submit a nomination for the board
of directors, a shareholder must also submit information with respect to the nominee that we would be required to include in a proxy statement, as well as some other information. If a shareholder fails to follow the required procedures, the
shareholder&#146;s nominee or proposal will be ineligible and will not be voted on by our shareholders. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In addition to the director
nomination provisions described above, our bylaws contain a &#147;proxy access&#148; provision that provides that any shareholder or group of up to twenty shareholders who have owned 3% or more of our outstanding common stock continuously for at
least three years to nominate and include in our proxy materials for an annual meeting of shareholders, director candidates constituting up to 20% (or, if such amount is not a whole number, the closest whole number below 20%) of our board of
directors or two directors, whichever is greater, provided that the shareholder (or group) and each nominee satisfy the eligibility requirements specified in our bylaws. An eligible shareholder (or group) proposing to nominate a person for election
to our board of directors through the proxy access provision must provide us with a notice requesting the inclusion of the director nominee in our proxy materials and other required information not less than 120 days nor more than 150 days prior to
the first anniversary of the date on which the immediately preceding year&#146;s annual meeting of shareholders was held. In addition, an eligible shareholder (or group) may include a written statement of not more than 500 words supporting the
candidacy of such shareholder nominee. The complete proxy access provision for director nominations is set forth in our bylaws. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">In
connection with a special meeting of shareholders, the only business that will be conducted is that stated in the notice of special meeting, or otherwise properly brought and made in proper written form before the meeting by or at the direction of
the Chairman of the Meeting or the board of directors. Shareholders requesting a special meeting are permitted to make proposals for matters to be brought before the meeting in their request. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><I>Limitation on Liability of Directors.</I>&nbsp;Our articles of incorporation provide that no director will be personally liable to us or
our shareholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except as required by law as in effect from time to time. Currently, Texas law requires that liability be imposed for the following actions: </P>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any breach of the director&#146;s duty of loyalty to us or our shareholders, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any act or omission not in good faith that constitutes a breach of duty of the director to the corporation or
that involves intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">a transaction from which the director received an improper benefit, regardless of whether or not the benefit
resulted from an action taken within the scope of a director&#146;s duties,&nbsp;and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">an act or omission for which the liability of a director is expressly provided for by statute.
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Our bylaws provide that we will indemnify our officers and directors and advance expenses to them in connection with
proceedings and claims, to the fullest extent permitted by the TBOC. The bylaws authorize our board of directors to indemnify and advance expenses to people other than our officers and directors in certain circumstances. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">24 </P>

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 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B><I>Texas Anti-Takeover Law </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are subject to Section&nbsp;21.606 of the TBOC. That section prohibits Texas public corporations from engaging in a wide range of specified
transactions with any affiliated shareholder during the three-year period immediately following the affiliated shareholder&#146;s acquisition of shares in the absence of certain board of director or shareholder approvals. An affiliated shareholder
of a corporation is any person, other than the corporation and any of its wholly owned subsidiaries, that is or was within the preceding three-year period the beneficial owner of 20% or more of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote
generally in the election of directors. Section&nbsp;21.606 may deter any potential unfriendly offers or other efforts to obtain control of us that are not approved by our board of directors. This may deprive our shareholders of opportunities to
sell shares of our common stock at a premium to the prevailing market price. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">25 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_10"></A>DESCRIPTION OF STOCK PURCHASE CONTRACTS AND EQUITY UNITS
</B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may issue stock purchase contracts, including contracts obligating holders to purchase from us, and obligating us to sell to the
holders, a specified number of shares of common stock, preferred stock or other securities at a future date or dates. We may fix the price and number of securities subject to the stock purchase contracts at the time we issue the stock purchase
contracts, or we may provide that the price and number of securities will be determined pursuant to a formula set forth in the stock purchase contracts. The stock purchase contracts may be issued separately or as part of units consisting of a stock
purchase contract and our preferred stock or debt securities or debt obligations of third parties, including U.S.&nbsp;treasury securities, securing the obligations of the holders of the units to purchase the securities under the stock purchase
contracts. We refer to these units as equity units. The stock purchase contracts may require holders to secure their obligations under the stock purchase contracts in a specified manner. The stock purchase contracts also may require us to make
periodic payments to the holders of the equity units or vice versa, and those payments may be unsecured on some basis. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The applicable
prospectus supplement will describe the terms of the stock purchase contracts or equity units offered by such prospectus supplement. The description in the prospectus supplement will not necessarily be complete, and reference will be made to the
stock purchase contracts or equity units, and, if applicable, collateral or depositary arrangements, relating to the stock purchase contracts or equity units, which will be filed with the SEC or otherwise incorporated by reference in our previous
filings each time we issue stock purchase contracts or equity units. Certain material United States federal income tax considerations applicable to the equity units and the stock purchase contracts will also be discussed in the prospectus
supplement. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_11"></A>DESCRIPTION OF DEPOSITARY SHARES </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may issue fractional shares of preferred stock, rather than full shares of preferred stock. If we do so, we may issue receipts for
depositary shares that each represent a fraction of a share of a particular series of preferred stock. A related prospectus supplement will indicate that fraction. The shares of preferred stock represented by depositary shares will be deposited
under a depositary agreement between us and a bank, trust company or other institution that is selected by us, which we refer to as the &#147;depositary.&#148; Each owner of a depository share will be entitled to all the designations, powers,
preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions of the preferred stock represented by the depositary share. The depositary share will be evidenced by depositary receipts issued pursuant to the depositary agreement. Depositary
receipts will be distributed to those persons purchasing the fractional shares of preferred stock in accordance with the terms of the offering. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The forms of the depositary agreement and the depository receipts relating to any particular issue of depositary shares will be filed with the
SEC each time we issue depositary shares, and any prospectus supplement relating to any particular depositary shares will describe, among other things, the following: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the material terms of the depositary shares and of the underlying preferred stock, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the identity of the depositary and the material terms of the depositary agreement, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any material provisions relating to the issuance, payment, settlement, transfer or exchange of the depositary
shares, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any applicable material United States federal income tax considerations. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">26 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_12"></A>HOLDING COMPANY STRUCTURE </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We are a holding company that derives all of our operating income from, and holds substantially all of our assets through, our subsidiaries.
As a result, we depend on the performance of and distributions from our subsidiaries to meet our debt service obligations and to pay dividends on our common stock and our preferred stock. In general, our subsidiaries are separate and distinct legal
entities and have no obligation to provide us with funds for our payment obligations, whether by dividends, distributions, loans or otherwise. In addition, provisions of applicable law, such as those limiting the legal sources of dividends, limit
our subsidiaries&#146; ability to make payments or other distributions to us, and our subsidiaries could agree to contractual restrictions on their ability to make payments or other distributions. Our right to receive assets of any subsidiary, and
therefore the right of our creditors to participate in those assets, are structurally subordinated to the claims of our subsidiaries&#146; creditors, including trade creditors. In addition, even if we were a creditor of any subsidiary, our rights as
a creditor would likely be effectively subordinated to any security interest in the assets of that subsidiary and any senior indebtedness of that subsidiary. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_13"></A>PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may sell the offered securities in and outside the United States: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>

<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">through underwriters or dealers, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">directly to purchasers, including our affiliates, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">through agents, or </P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">through a combination of any of these methods. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The prospectus supplement will include the following information: </P> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the terms of the offering, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the names of any underwriters or agents, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the name or names of any managing underwriter or underwriters, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the purchase price of the securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">the net proceeds to us from the sale of the securities, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any delayed delivery arrangements, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any underwriting discounts, commissions and other items constituting underwriters&#146; compensation,
</P></TD></TR></TABLE> <P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any initial public offering price, </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers, and </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="font-size:6pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P>
<TABLE STYLE="BORDER-COLLAPSE:COLLAPSE; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt" BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
<TR style = "page-break-inside:avoid">
<TD WIDTH="5%">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="top" ALIGN="left">&#149;</TD>
<TD WIDTH="1%" VALIGN="top">&nbsp;</TD>
<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> <P ALIGN="left" STYLE=" margin-top:0pt ; margin-bottom:0pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:10pt">any commissions paid to agents. </P></TD></TR></TABLE>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Sale Through Underwriters or Dealers </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we use underwriters in the sale, the underwriters will acquire the securities for their own account. The underwriters may resell the
securities from time to time in one or more transactions, including negotiated transactions, at a fixed public offering price or at varying prices determined at the time of sale. Underwriters may offer securities to the public either through
underwriting syndicates represented by one or more managing underwriters or directly by one or more firms acting as underwriters. Unless we inform you otherwise in the prospectus supplement, the obligations of the underwriters to purchase the
securities will be subject to certain conditions, and the underwriters will be obligated to purchase all the offered securities if they purchase any of them. The underwriters may change from time to time any initial public offering price and any
discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">27 </P>

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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Underwriters may sell shares of our common stock under this prospectus by any method
permitted by law deemed to be an &#147;at the market&#148; offering as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, which includes sales made directly on the New York Stock Exchange, NYSE Chicago, on any other existing trading market for
our common stock or to or through a market maker, or in privately negotiated transactions, including block trades. Unless we inform you otherwise in the applicable prospectus supplement, the sales agent with respect to any such <FONT
STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">at-the-market</FONT></FONT> offering will make all sales using commercially reasonable efforts consistent with its normal trading and sales practices, on mutually agreeable terms between
the sales agent and us. We will include in the applicable prospectus supplement the amount of any compensation to be received by the sales agent. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">During and after an offering through underwriters, the underwriters may purchase and sell the securities in the open market. These
transactions may include overallotment and stabilizing transactions and purchases to cover syndicate short positions created in connection with the offering. The underwriters also may impose a penalty bid, which means that selling concessions
allowed to syndicate members or other broker-dealers for the offered securities sold for their account may be reclaimed by the syndicate if the offered securities are repurchased by the syndicate in stabilizing or covering transactions. These
activities may stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the market price of the offered securities, which may be higher than the price that might otherwise prevail in the open market. If commenced, the underwriters may discontinue these activities at
any time. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we use dealers in the sale of securities, we may sell the securities to them as principals. They may then resell those
securities to the public at varying prices determined by the dealers at the time of resale. The dealers participating in any sale of the securities may be deemed to be underwriters within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 with respect to any
sale of these securities. We will include in the prospectus supplement the names of the dealers and the terms of the transaction. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">To the
extent that we make sales through one or more underwriters or agents in <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">at-the-market</FONT></FONT> offerings, we will do so pursuant to the terms of a sales agency agreement or other
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">at-the-market</FONT></FONT> offering arrangement between us and the underwriters or agents. If we engage in
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">at-the-market</FONT></FONT> sales pursuant to any such agreement, we will issue and sell common stock through one or more underwriters or agents, which may act on an agency basis or
on a principal basis. During the term of any such agreement, we may sell common stock on a daily basis in exchange transactions or otherwise as we agree with the underwriters or agents. The agreement will provide that any common stock sold will be
sold at prices related to the then prevailing market prices for such securities. Therefore, exact figures regarding proceeds that will be raised or commissions to be paid cannot be determined at this time. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, we
also may agree to sell, and the relevant underwriters or agents may agree to solicit offers to purchase, blocks of common stock. The terms of each such agreement will be set forth in more detail in the applicable prospectus supplement and any
related free writing prospectus. In the event that any underwriter or agent acts as principal, or any broker-dealer acts as underwriter, it may engage in certain transactions that stabilize, maintain, or otherwise affect the price of common stock.
We will describe any such activities in the prospectus supplement or any related free writing prospectus relating to the transaction. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Direct Sales and Sales Through Agents </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may sell the securities directly. In that event, no underwriters or agents would be involved. We may also sell the securities through agents
we designate from time to time. In the prospectus supplement, we will name any agent involved in the offer or sale of the offered securities, and we will describe any commissions payable by us to the agent. Unless we inform you otherwise in the
prospectus supplement, any agent will agree to use its reasonable best efforts to solicit purchases for the period of its appointment. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We
may sell the securities directly to institutional investors or others who may be deemed to be underwriters within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 with respect to any sale of those securities. We will describe the terms of any such sales in
the prospectus supplement. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">28 </P>

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<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
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<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Delayed Delivery Contracts </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">If we so indicate in the prospectus supplement, we may authorize agents, underwriters or dealers to solicit offers from certain types of
institutions to purchase securities from us at the public offering price under delayed delivery contracts. These contracts would provide for payment and delivery on a specified date in the future. The contracts would be subject only to those
conditions described in the prospectus supplement. The prospectus supplement will describe the commission payable for solicitation of those contracts. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Remarketing </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may offer
and sell any of the offered securities in connection with a remarketing upon their purchase, in accordance with a redemption or repayment by their terms or otherwise by one or more remarketing firms acting as principals for their own accounts or as
our agents. We will identify any remarketing firm, the terms of any remarketing agreement and the compensation to be paid to the remarketing firm in the prospectus supplement. Remarketing firms may be deemed underwriters under the Securities Act of
1933. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>Derivative Transactions </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may enter into derivative transactions with third parties, or sell securities not covered by this prospectus to third parties in privately
negotiated transactions. If the applicable prospectus supplement indicates, in connection with those derivatives, the third parties may sell securities covered by this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement, including in short sale
transactions. If so, the third parties may use securities pledged by us or borrowed from us or others to settle those sales or to close out any related open borrowings of securities, and may use securities received from us in settlement of those
derivatives to close out any related open borrowings of securities. The third parties in these sale transactions will be underwriters and, if not identified in this prospectus, will be identified in the applicable prospectus supplement or in a
post-effective amendment to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:18pt; margin-bottom:0pt; margin-left:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman"><B>General Information </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">We may have agreements with the remarketing firms, agents, dealers and underwriters to indemnify them against certain civil liabilities,
including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, or to contribute with respect to payments that the agents, dealers or underwriters may be required to make. Such firms, agents, dealers and underwriters may be customers of, engage in
transactions with or perform services for us in the ordinary course of their businesses. </P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">To the extent required, this prospectus may be
amended or supplemented from time to time to describe a particular plan of distribution. The place and time of delivery for the securities in respect of which this prospectus is delivered will be set forth in the accompanying prospectus supplement.
</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">Each series of offered securities will be a new issue, and other than the common stock, which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange
and the NYSE Chicago, will have no established trading market. We may elect to list any series of offered securities on an exchange, but we are not obligated to do so. It is possible that one or more underwriters may make a market in a series of
offered securities. However, they will not be obligated to do so and may discontinue market making at any time without notice. We cannot assure you that a liquid trading market for any of our offered securities will develop. </P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:24pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_14"></A>LEGAL MATTERS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The validity of the securities described in this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Baker Botts L.L.P., Houston, Texas. Monica Karuturi,
Esq., our Executive Vice President and General Counsel, may pass on other legal matters for us. Ms.&nbsp;Karuturi is the beneficial owner of less than 1% of our common stock. Any underwriters will be advised regarding issues relating to any offering
by Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, New York, New York. From time to time, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP acts as counsel to us and our affiliates on certain matters. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">29 </P>

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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><A NAME="toc880950_15"></A>EXPERTS </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; text-indent:4%; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman">The financial statements of CenterPoint Energy, Inc. as of December&nbsp;31, 2022 and 2021, and for each of the three years in the period
ended December&nbsp;31, 2022, incorporated by reference in this Prospectus by reference to CenterPoint Energy, Inc.&#146;s annual report on Form <FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">10-K</FONT> for the year ended December&nbsp;31, 2022, and the
effectiveness of CenterPoint Energy, Inc.&#146;s internal control over financial reporting have been audited by Deloitte&nbsp;&amp; Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports. Such financial statements
are incorporated by reference in reliance upon the reports of such firm given their authority as experts in accounting and auditing. </P>
 <p STYLE="margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt ; font-size:8pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center">30 </P>

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<p style="margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0em; page-break-before:always"> </p>
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<h5 align="left" style="font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold"><a href="#toc">Table of Contents</a></h5>


<Center><DIV STYLE="width:8.5in" align="left">
 <P STYLE="line-height:2.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;border-bottom:2.00pt solid #000000">&nbsp;</P>
<P STYLE="line-height:3.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="margin-top:30pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195; </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:24pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>CENTERPOINT ENERGY, INC. </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:11.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; %
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series A, due 2055 </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:11.5pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>$&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195;&#8195; %
<FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap"><FONT STYLE="white-space:nowrap">Fixed-to-Fixed</FONT></FONT> Reset Rate Junior Subordinated Notes, Series B, due 2055 </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:80pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center>
<P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center> <P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>PROSPECTUS
SUPPLEMENT </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center> <P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center>
<P STYLE="margin-top:80pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B><I>Joint Book-Running Managers </I></B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Barclays </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Goldman
Sachs&nbsp;&amp; Co. LLC </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>J.P. Morgan </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Mizuho </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:16pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Morgan Stanley
</B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:12pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center> <P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center>
<P STYLE="margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>BNP PARIBAS </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>RBC Capital
Markets </B></P> <P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>Truist Securities </B></P>
<P STYLE="margin-top:6pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:14pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>US Bancorp </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:24pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P><center>
<P STYLE="line-height:6.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:1.00pt solid #000000;width:21%">&nbsp;</P></center> <P STYLE="margin-top:42pt; margin-bottom:0pt; font-size:10pt; font-family:Times New Roman" ALIGN="center"><B>August
&#8195;, 2024 </B></P> <P STYLE="font-size:30pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt">&nbsp;</P> <P STYLE="line-height:1.0pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;border-bottom:1px solid #000000">&nbsp;</P>
<P STYLE="line-height:4.5pt;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:2pt;border-bottom:2.00pt solid #000000">&nbsp;</P>
</DIV></Center>

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end
</TEXT>
</DOCUMENT>
</SEC-DOCUMENT>
