As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 19, 2006
Registration No. 333-            


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

  CVS CORPORATION  
  (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)  
     
Delaware 5912 05-0494040
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
One CVS Drive
Woonsocket, RI 02895
(401) 765-1500
(Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrant’s Principal Executive Offices)
     
David B. Rickard
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
CVS Corporation
One CVS Drive
Woonsocket, RI 02895
(401) 765-1500
(Name, Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Agent For Service)

Copies to:
Douglas A. Sgarro, Esq. Louis Goldberg, Esq. Sara J. Finley, Esq. Michael J. O’Brien, Esq.
Executive Vice President-Strategy and John D. Amorosi, Esq. Senior Vice President, Secretary and Tracey A. Zaccone, Esq.
Chief Legal Officer Davis Polk & Wardwell Assistant General Counsel King & Spalding LLP
CVS Corporation 450 Lexington Avenue Caremark Rx, Inc. 1185 Avenue of the Americas
One CVS Drive New York, NY 10017 211 Commerce Street New York, NY 10036
Woonsocket, RI 02895 (212) 450-4000 Suite 800 (212) 556-2100
(401) 765-1500 Nashville, TN 37201
(615) 743-6600
 

     Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement and the effective time of the merger (the “Merger”) of Twain MergerSub Corp., a Delaware corporation formed for the purpose of the Merger and a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS Corporation, a Delaware corporation, with and into Caremark Rx, Inc., as described in the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 1, 2006, attached as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus forming part of this registration statement.
     If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box: o
     If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o
     If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
Title of Each Class
of Securities To Be Registered
Amount To Be
Registered(1)
Proposed Maximum
Offering Price Per Unit
Proposed Maximum
Aggregate Offering Price(2)
Amount of
Registration Fee(2)
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share 745,887,633 N/A $22,233,705,898 $2,379,007
(1)      Represents the maximum number of shares of common stock, with par value $0.01 per share, of CVS Corporation (“CVS Common Stock”) estimated to be issuable upon completion of the Merger, based on the exchange ratio of 1.670 shares of CVS Common Stock for each share of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Caremark Rx, Inc. (“Caremark Common Stock”) (based on 426,541,731 shares of Caremark Common Stock outstanding on December 14, 2006 and 20,097,600 shares of Caremark Common Stock issuable pursuant to the exercise of Caremark options and warrants outstanding on December 14, 2006.)
(2)      Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the amount of the registration fee required by Section 6(b) of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”), and calculated pursuant to Rules 457(f)(1) and 457(c) under the Securities Act, the proposed maximum aggregate offering price of the registrant’s common stock was calculated based upon the market value of shares of Caremark Common Stock (the securities to be cancelled in the merger) in accordance with Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act as follows: the product of (1) $49.78 the average of the high and low prices per share of Caremark Common Stock on December 12, 2006 as quoted on the New York Stock Exchange, multiplied by (2) 446,639,331, the sum of the aggregate number of shares of Caremark Common Stock outstanding as of December 14, 2006 and the aggregate number of shares of Caremark Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Caremark options and warrants.
 
     The Registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.



The information in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is not complete and may be changed. These securities may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary joint proxy statement/prospectus is not an offer to sell and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED DECEMBER 19, 2006

   

MERGER PROPOSED – YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT

The boards of directors of CVS Corporation and Caremark Rx, Inc. have each approved a merger agreement which provides for the combination of the two companies in a transaction structured as a merger of equals. The boards of directors of CVS and Caremark believe that the combination of the two companies will be able to create substantially more long-term stockholder value than either company could individually achieve. Following the completion of the merger, Caremark will be a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS and Caremark stockholders will own approximately 45.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company and CVS stockholders will own approximately 54.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company, in each case, on a fully diluted basis. CVS Corporation is referred to as CVS and Caremark Rx, Inc. is referred to as Caremark.

The combined company will be named CVS/Caremark Corporation and the shares of the combined company will be traded on the New York Stock Exchange, or the NYSE, under the symbol “CVS”.

If the merger is completed, Caremark’s stockholders will receive 1.670 shares of common stock of CVS/Caremark, for each share of Caremark common stock that they own immediately before the effective time of the merger. Caremark stockholders will receive cash for any fractional shares which they would otherwise receive in the merger. CVS stockholders will continue to own their existing shares after the merger. CVS common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “CVS”. On [•], 2007, the last practicable day before the mailing of this document, the closing price per share of CVS common stock as reported by the NYSE was $[•].

CVS and Caremark estimate that CVS will issue approximately 712.3 million shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger based on the number of shares of Caremark common stock outstanding on December 14, 2006, and will reserve an additional approximately 33.6 million shares of CVS/Caremark common stock for issuance in connection with CVS/Caremark’s assumption of Caremark’s outstanding options and warrants.

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. The merger cannot be completed unless, among other things, holders of Caremark common stock vote to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger and holders of CVS common stock and CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, voting together as a single class, approve the amendments to CVS’ charter and approve the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger.

The CVS board of directors unanimously recommends that CVS stockholders vote “FOR” the amendments to the CVS charter to increase the authorized number of shares and to change the name of CVS to “CVS/Caremark Corporation” and “FOR” the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger. The Caremark board of directors unanimously recommends that Caremark stockholders vote “FOR” the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger.

CVS and Caremark will each hold a special meeting of their respective stockholders to vote on these proposals. Whether or not you plan to attend your company’s special meeting, please take the time to vote by completing and mailing the enclosed proxy card or submitting your proxy by telephone or through the Internet, using the procedures in the proxy voting instructions included with your proxy card. Even if you return the proxy, you may attend the special meeting and vote your shares in person.

This document describes the proposed merger and related transactions in more detail. CVS and Caremark encourage you to read this entire document carefully, including the merger agreement, which is included as Annex A, and the section discussing “Risk Factors” relating to the merger beginning on page 25.

CVS and Caremark look forward to the successful combination of the two companies.

     

 
Thomas M. Ryan   E. Mac Crawford
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer,   Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer,
CVS Corporation   Caremark Rx, Inc.






     Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the merger described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus or the CVS/Caremark common stock to be issued pursuant to the merger or determined if this joint proxy statement/prospectus is accurate or adequate. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

     This joint proxy statement/prospectus is dated December 19, 2006 and, together with the accompanying proxy card, is first being mailed or otherwise delivered to stockholders of CVS and Caremark on or about [•], 2007.






THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCORPORATES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     This document incorporates by reference important business and financial information about CVS and Caremark from other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which is referred to as the SEC, that are not included in or delivered with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. This information is available to you without charge upon your written or oral request. For a list of the documents incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/prospectus, see “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140. You can obtain electronic or hardcopy versions of the documents that are incorporated by reference into this document, without charge, from the Investor Relations section of each company’s website or by requesting them in writing or by telephone as set forth below:

if you are a CVS stockholder:   if you are a Caremark stockholder:
             
Electronic:   www.cvs.com (please see “Financial   Electronic:   www.caremarkrx.com (please see “SEC
    Information” page or “Contact Us”       Filings” page or “Request Document” page
    page in the Investor Relations portion       in the Investor Relations portion of the
    of the site)       site)
             
By Mail:   CVS Corporation   By Mail:   Caremark Rx, Inc.
    One CVS Drive       211 Commerce Street, Suite 800
    Woonsocket, RI 02895       Nashville, TN 37201
    Attention: Investor Relations       Attention: Investor Relations
    E-mail Address: investorinfo@cvs.com       E-mail Address:
            investorinfo@caremark.com
             
By Telephone:   (800) 201-0938   By Telephone:   (800) 633-9509

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO REQUEST DOCUMENTS, PLEASE DO SO BY [•], 2007 IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THEM BEFORE YOUR SPECIAL MEETING.

VOTING ELECTRONICALLY, BY TELEPHONE OR BY MAIL

CVS stockholders of record on [•], 2007 may submit their proxies:

  • Through the Internet, by visiting the website established for that purpose at www.proxyvotenow.com/cvs and following the instructions; or


  • By telephone, by calling the toll-free number (866) 209-1687 in the United States, Canada or Puerto Rico on a touch-tone phone and following the recorded instructions; or


  • By mail, by marking, signing, and dating your proxy and returning it in the postage-paid envelope provided or pursuant to the instructions set out in the proxy card.

Caremark stockholders of record on [•], 2007 may submit their proxies:

  • Through the Internet, by visiting the website established for that purpose at www.voteproxy.com and following the instructions; or


  • By telephone, by calling the toll-free number (800) PROXIES (776-9437) in the United States, Canada or Puerto Rico on a touch-tone phone and following the recorded instructions; or


  • By mail, by marking, signing, and dating your proxy and returning it in the postage-paid envelope provided or returning it pursuant to the instructions provided in the proxy card.

If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information forwarded by your bank, broker or other holder of record to see which options are available to you.






NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held On [•], 2007

Dear Stockholder:

     A special meeting of stockholders of CVS Corporation will be held on [•], 2007 at [•] a.m., Eastern Time, at CVS’ corporate headquarters, One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895.

     The purpose of the CVS special meeting is to consider and to vote upon the following proposals:

  • a proposal to approve the amendments to CVS’ Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which is referred to as the CVS charter, effective upon completion of the merger, to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion and to change the name of CVS Corporation to “CVS/Caremark Corporation”;


  • a proposal to approve the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to stockholders of Caremark Rx, Inc. on the terms and conditions set out in the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of November 1, 2006 among CVS, Caremark and Twain MergerSub Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS formed for the purpose of the merger; and


  • a proposal to approve an adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals if there are not sufficient votes for either of the proposals.

     The CVS board of directors has unanimously determined that the amendments to the CVS charter and the share issuance are advisable and in the best interests of CVS and its stockholders and recommends that CVS stockholders vote “FOR” the amendments to the CVS charter, “FOR” the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the amendments and issuance.

     CVS and Caremark cannot complete the merger unless:

  • the proposed amendments to the CVS charter are approved by holders of CVS common stock and holders of CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, voting together as a single class, representing at least a majority of the aggregate votes entitled to be cast by all such holders; and


  • the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger is approved by holders of CVS common stock and CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, voting together as a single class, representing at least a majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at such meeting, so long as the total number of votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the total number of votes entitled to be cast by holders of the outstanding CVS common stock and CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, voting together as a single class.

     Your failure to vote will have the same effect as a vote against the approval of the CVS charter amendments and will make it more difficult to obtain the necessary quorum for purposes of approving the share issuance. Therefore, your vote is very important.

     The close of business on [•], 2007 has been fixed as the record date, which is referred to as the CVS record date, for the determination of CVS stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the CVS special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the CVS special meeting. Only holders of CVS common stock and holders of CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock of record at the close of business on [•], 2007 are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the CVS special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the CVS special meeting. All CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, which is referred to as the CVS ESOP preference stock, is held by the Bank of New York, as Trustee under the 401(k) Plan and the Employee Stock Ownership Plan of CVS Corporation and Affiliated Companies, which is referred to as the CVS Plan. The CVS Plan consists of both a 401(k) Plan and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Each participant in the CVS Plan instructs the trustee of the CVS Plan how to vote his or her shares of (i) CVS ESOP preference stock and (ii) CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan. Unallocated shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan and shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan with respect to which the trustee of the CVS Plan receives no timely voting instructions will be voted by the trustee of the CVS Plan in the same proportion as it votes all the shares as to which such trustee has received timely voting instructions. A list of the holders of CVS common stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting will be available for examination by any CVS stockholder, for any purpose germane to the CVS special meeting, at CVS’ principal executive offices at One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895, for ten days before the CVS special meeting, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and at the CVS special meeting during the entire time of the meeting.






     We direct your attention to the joint proxy statement/prospectus accompanying this notice for a more complete statement regarding the matters proposed to be acted upon at the meeting. We encourage you to read the entire joint proxy statement/prospectus carefully, including the merger agreement, which is included as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus, and the section discussing “Risk Factors” beginning on page 25.

     SO THAT YOUR SHARES WILL BE REPRESENTED WHETHER OR NOT YOU ATTEND THE CVS SPECIAL MEETING, PLEASE VOTE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BY MAIL, BY TELEPHONE OR THROUGH THE INTERNET. INSTRUCTIONS ON THESE DIFFERENT WAYS TO VOTE YOUR PROXY ARE FOUND ON THE ENCLOSED PROXY FORM. YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME BEFORE IT IS VOTED AT THE CVS SPECIAL MEETING. REMEMBER, YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT, SO PLEASE ACT TODAY!

  By Order of the Board of Directors,
   
   
  Thomas M. Ryan
  Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   

[•], 2007






NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held On [•], 2007

Dear Caremark Stockholder:

     Caremark is pleased to invite you to attend a special meeting of the stockholders of Caremark Rx, Inc. which will be held on [•], 2007 at [•] a.m., Central Time, at Caremark’s corporate headquarters at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, Tennessee 37201.

     The purpose of the Caremark special meeting is to consider and to vote upon the following proposals:

  • a proposal to adopt the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of November 1, 2006 among CVS Corporation, Caremark and Twain MergerSub Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS formed for the purpose of the merger, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus, and to approve the merger contemplated by the merger agreement, pursuant to which Caremark will become a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS Corporation (which will be renamed CVS/Caremark Corporation); and

  • a proposal to approve an adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger if there are not sufficient votes for that proposal.

     The Caremark board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it, including the merger, are advisable and in the best interests of Caremark and its stockholders, unanimously approved and adopted the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it, including the merger, and recommends that the Caremark stockholders vote “FOR” the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger and “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of such adoption and approval.

     CVS and Caremark cannot complete the merger unless the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger is approved by holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.

     Your failure to vote will have the same effect as a vote against the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger. Therefore, your vote is very important.

     The close of business on [], 2007 has been fixed as the record date, which is referred to as the Caremark record date, for the determination of Caremark stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Caremark special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the Caremark special meeting. Only holders of record of Caremark common stock at the close of business on the Caremark record date are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Caremark special meeting. A complete list of stockholders entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting will be available for examination by any of Caremark’s stockholders at Caremark’s headquarters at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, Tennessee 37201 for purposes pertaining to the Caremark special meeting, during normal business hours, for a period of 10 days before the Caremark special meeting, and at the time and place of the Caremark special meeting.

     We direct your attention to the joint proxy statement/prospectus accompanying this notice for more detailed information regarding the matters proposed to be acted upon at the Caremark special meeting. You are encouraged to read the entire joint proxy statement/prospectus carefully, including the merger agreement, which is included as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus, and “Risk Factors” beginning on page 25 of the joint proxy statement/prospectus.

     SO THAT YOUR SHARES WILL BE REPRESENTED WHETHER OR NOT YOU ATTEND THE CAREMARK SPECIAL MEETING, PLEASE VOTE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BY (1) ACCESSING THE INTERNET WEBSITE SPECIFIED ON YOUR PROXY CARD; (2) CALLING THE TOLL-FREE NUMBER SPECIFIED ON YOUR PROXY CARD; OR (3) SIGNING, DATING AND MAILING THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD SO THAT YOUR SHARES MAY BE REPRESENTED AT THE CAREMARK SPECIAL MEETING. YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME BEFORE IT IS VOTED AT THE CAREMARK SPECIAL MEETING BY FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURES SET FORTH IN THE ACCOMPANYING JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. REMEMBER, YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT, SO PLEASE ACT PROMPTLY.

  By Order of the Board of Directors,
   
   
  E. Mac Crawford
  Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   

[•], 2007






TABLE OF CONTENTS

  Page     Page
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE                U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences to    
         MERGER   1                      Caremark Stockholders   86
SUMMARY   6            U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences to    
         The Companies   6                      CVS Stockholders   86
         The Merger   7   REGULATORY AND OTHER APPROVALS    
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED                REQUIRED FOR THE MERGER   87
         FINANCIAL DATA OF CVS   18            U.S. Antitrust Filing   87
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED       THE COMPANIES   89
         FINANCIAL DATA OF CAREMARK   20            CVS   89
SUMMARY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA                Caremark   89
         FINANCIAL DATA   21   THE MERGER AGREEMENT   91
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE INFORMATION   22            Explanatory Note Regarding Summary of    
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE MARKET PRICE                          Merger Agreement and Representations    
         AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION   23                      and Warranties in the Merger Agreement   91
RISK FACTORS   25            Structure of the Merger   91
         Risks Related to the Merger   25            Timing of Closing   91
         Risks Related to CVS, Caremark and the                Merger Consideration   91
                   Combined Company   29            Exchange of Shares   92
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING                Fractional Shares   92
         FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS   35            Caremark Stock Options   92
THE MERGER   37            Listing of CVS/Caremark Stock   93
         Structure of the Merger   37            CVS Governance and Related Matters   93
         Merger Consideration   37            Representations and Warranties   93
         Background of the Merger   37            Certain Covenants   95
         Rationale for the Merger   42            Conditions to Completion of the Merger   99
         CVS Reasons for the Merger   44            Termination   100
         Recommendations of the CVS Board of                Termination Fees   101
                   Directors   46            Other Expenses   101
         Opinions of Financial Advisors to the CVS                Amendments; Waivers   102
                   Board of Directors   46   THE CVS SPECIAL MEETING   103
         Interests of CVS Executive Officers and                Date, Time and Place   103
                   Directors in the Merger   61            Purpose of the CVS Special Meeting   103
         Caremark Reasons for the Merger   62            Board Recommendations   103
         Recommendations of the Caremark Board of                CVS Record Date; Shares Entitled to Vote   103
                   Directors   66            Quorum Requirement   104
         Opinions of Financial Advisors to Caremark   66            Stock Ownership of CVS Executive Officers    
         Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and                          and Directors   104
                   Directors in the Merger   72            Votes Required to Approve CVS Proposals   105
         Accounting Treatment   81            Voting of Proxies   105
         Board of Directors and Management of                Revocation of Proxies   106
                   CVS/Caremark Following the Merger;                Solicitation of Proxies   107
                   Headquarters   81            Householding   107
         Repurchases of Caremark Common Stock   82   THE CAREMARK SPECIAL MEETING   108
         Federal Securities Laws Consequences; Stock                Date, Time and Place   108
                   Transfer Restriction Agreements   82            Purpose of the Caremark Special Meeting   108
         No Appraisal Rights   82            Board Recommendations   108
         Caremark Warrants   83            Caremark Record Date; Shares Entitled to    
         Merger-Related Litigation   83                      Vote   108
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX                Quorum Requirement   108
         CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER   85        
         General   85        

i






         Stock Ownership of Caremark Executive                CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock   116
                   Officers and Directors   109            Transfer Agent and Registrar   117
         Votes Required to Approve Caremark                Stock Exchange Listing; Delisting and    
                   Proposals   109                      Deregistration of Caremark Common    
         Voting of Proxies   109                      Stock   117
         Revocation of Proxies   110   COMPARISON OF STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS   118
         Solicitation of Proxies   111   UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED    
         Householding   111            COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION   130
CVS CHARTER AMENDMENT   112            Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed    
         Increase of Authorized Common Stock   112   Combined Financial Statements   134
         Name Change   112   LEGAL MATTERS   139
CVS BYLAWS AMENDMENT   113   INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC    
         Corporate Governance   113            ACCOUNTING FIRM   139
         Chairman of the Board   113   FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS   139
         Chief Executive Officer   113            CVS   139
         Headquarters   114            Caremark   139
         Other Changes to Bylaws   114   WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE    
         Amendments   114            INFORMATION   140
DESCRIPTION OF CVS CAPITAL STOCK   115   PART II INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN    
         Authorized Capital Stock   115            PROSPECTUS   II-1
         CVS Common Stock   115        

LIST OF ANNEXES
Annex A   Agreement and Plan of Merger
Annex B   CVS Charter Amendment
Annex C   Amended and Restated CVS Bylaws
Annex D   Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.
Annex E   Opinion of Lehman Brothers Inc.
Annex F   Opinion of UBS Securities LLC
Annex G   Opinion of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc.

ii






QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER

Q:      What will happen in the transaction?
 
A:      CVS and Caremark are proposing to combine the two companies in a merger of equals transaction. In the merger, a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS that was formed for the purpose of the merger will be merged with and into Caremark, and Caremark will survive the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS. The combined company will be named CVS/Caremark Corporation. Caremark stockholders will have their shares of Caremark common stock converted into newly issued shares of common stock of CVS/Caremark Corporation, and CVS stockholders will retain their existing shares of CVS common stock and CVS Series One ESOP Convertible Preference Stock, which is referred to as CVS ESOP preference stock. CVS and Caremark expect that, upon completion of the merger, approximately 45.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis will be held by former Caremark stockholders, and approximately 54.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis will be held by former CVS stockholders.
 
  In the merger, CVS’ Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which is referred to as the CVS charter, will be amended to increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion and to change CVS’ name to CVS/Caremark Corporation. These changes are described under the section entitled “CVS Charter Amendment” beginning on page 112.
 
Q:      What will I receive in the merger?
 
A:      CVS Stockholders. Each share of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock held by CVS stockholders immediately before the merger will continue to represent one share of CVS/Caremark common stock and one share of ESOP preference stock of the combined company, as applicable, after the effective time of the merger. In other words, CVS stockholders will receive no consideration in the merger.
 
  Caremark Stockholders. For each share of Caremark common stock held, Caremark stockholders will have the right to receive 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. At the effective time of the merger, each share of Caremark common stock will be cancelled and converted automatically into the right to receive 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. Caremark stockholders will receive cash for any fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that they would otherwise receive in the merger. The amount of cash for fractional shares will be calculated by multiplying the fraction of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock to which the Caremark stockholder would be entitled to receive in the merger by the closing sale price of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock on the first trading day immediately following the effective time of the merger.
 
Q:      When and where are the CVS and Caremark special meetings?
 
A:      CVS Special Meeting. A special meeting of CVS stockholders, which is referred to as the CVS special meeting, will be held on [], 2007 at [] a.m., Eastern Time, at CVS’ corporate headquarters, One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895, to consider and vote on proposals related to the merger.
 
  Caremark Special Meeting. A special meeting of Caremark stockholders, which is referred to as the Caremark special meeting, will be held on [], 2007 at [] a.m., Central Time, at Caremark’s corporate headquarters, at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, Tennessee 37201 to consider and vote on proposals related to the merger.
 
Q:      What stockholder votes are required?
 
A:      CVS stockholders are being asked to approve two separate proposals that are necessary to complete the merger. The completion of the merger requires:
   
 
  • the approval of the amendments to the CVS charter by holders of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, representing a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by such holders on the proposal; and
         






     
  • the approval of the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger by holders of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, representing a majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at the CVS special meeting, provided that the total number of votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the total number of votes entitled to be cast by holders of the outstanding CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, which is referred to as the 50% “vote cast” quorum requirement.
     
      The CVS board of directors recommends that CVS stockholders vote “FOR” the amendments of the CVS charter to increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock and to rename the combined company CVS/Caremark Corporation and “FOR” the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in connection with the merger.
     
      Caremark stockholders are being asked to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, which requires the approval of holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.
     
      The Caremark board of directors recommends that Caremark stockholders vote “FOR” the adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger.
     
    Q:      Why is my vote important?
     
    A:      In order to complete the merger, Caremark stockholders must adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, and CVS stockholders must approve the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and the amendments to the CVS charter to increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock and to rename the combined company CVS/Caremark Corporation.
     
      If you are a CVS stockholder and you abstain from voting or do not vote (either in person or by proxy), or fail to direct your broker how to vote, it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” the proposal to approve the amendments to the CVS charter. If you abstain or do not vote (either in person or by proxy), or fail to direct your broker how to vote, it will have no effect in determining whether the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger will be approved, but will not be considered to be a “vote cast” for purposes of this proposal, making it more difficult to satisfy the 50% “vote cast” quorum requirement for the proposal.
     
      If you are a Caremark stockholder and you abstain from voting or do not vote (either in person or by proxy), or fail to direct your broker how to vote, it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger.
     
    Q:      Are the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger and the CVS charter amendments each conditioned upon each other?
     
    A:      Yes. The proposal to amend the CVS charter and the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger are each conditioned upon the approval of the other and the approval of each such proposal is a condition to completion of the merger. Neither the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in connection with the merger nor the amendments of the CVS charter will take place unless both of these proposals are approved by the CVS stockholders and the merger is completed. Therefore, the completion of the merger cannot proceed without the approval of both proposals.
     
    Q:      What do I do if I want to change my vote?
     
    A:      You can change your vote at any time before your proxy is voted at your stockholders’ meeting. You can do this in one of four ways:
     
     
  • you can send a signed notice of revocation;
     
     
  • you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date;
     
     
  • you can vote again by telephone or through the Internet; or
     

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  • if you are a holder of record, you can attend the applicable special meeting and vote in person, but your attendance alone will not revoke any proxy that you have previously given.
     
      If you choose either of the first two methods, you must send your notice of revocation or your new proxy to your company’s Corporate Secretary at the address under “The Companies” beginning on page 89 no later than the beginning of the applicable special meeting. If you are a CVS stockholder, you can find further details on how to revoke your proxy in “The CVS Special Meeting—Revocation of Proxies” beginning on page 106. If you are a Caremark stockholder, you can find further details on how to revoke your proxy in “The Caremark Special Meeting—Revocation of Proxies” beginning on page 110.
     
    Q:      If my shares are held in “street name” by my broker, will my broker vote my shares for me?
     
    A:      No. Your broker is not permitted to decide how your shares should be voted. Your broker will only vote your shares on a proposal if you provide your broker with voting instructions on that proposal. You should instruct your broker to vote your shares by following the directions that your broker provides you. Please check the voting information form used by your broker to see if it offers telephone or Internet voting.
     
      A broker non-vote occurs when a beneficial owner fails to provide voting instructions to his or her broker as to how to vote the shares held by the broker in street name and the broker does not have discretionary authority to vote without instructions. Brokers do not have discretionary authority to vote on any of the Caremark proposals or CVS proposals. By signing your proxy card and returning it to your broker without specific instructions as to any proposal, your shares represented by that proxy will be voted in favor of that proposal. Any shares you beneficially own not identified as represented by that proxy will be considered broker non- votes. See “The CVS Special Meeting” beginning on page 103 and “The Caremark Special Meeting” beginning on page 108.
     
    Q:      What if I fail to instruct my broker with respect to those items that are necessary to consummate the merger?
     
    A:      If you are a CVS stockholder:
     
     
  • with respect to the proposal to amend the CVS charter, a broker non-vote will be counted towards a quorum at the CVS special meeting, but will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” the proposal to amend the CVS charter; and
     
     
  • with respect to the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger, a broker non-vote will not be considered a “vote cast” for purposes of satisfying the applicable quorum requirement, making it more difficult to obtain the necessary quorum. However, if the quorum requirement is satisfied, a broker non-vote will have no effect on the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger.
     
      If you are a Caremark stockholder, a broker non-vote will be counted towards a quorum at the Caremark special meeting, but will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger.
     
      For additional information, see “The CVS Special Meeting—Votes Required to Approve CVS Proposals” beginning on page 105 if you are a CVS stockholder and “The Caremark Special Meeting—Votes Required to Approve Caremark Proposals” beginning on page 109 if you are a Caremark stockholder.
     
    Q:      What do I do now?
     
    A:      Carefully read and consider the information contained in and incorporated by reference into this document, including its annexes.
     
      In order for your shares to be represented at your stockholders’ meeting:
     
     
  • you can vote by telephone or through the Internet by following the instructions included on your proxy card;
     

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  • you can indicate on the enclosed proxy card how you would like to vote and sign and return the proxy card in the accompanying pre-addressed postage paid envelope; or
     
     
  • you can attend your special meeting in person.
     
    Q:      Should I send in my stock certificates now?
     
    A:      No. Caremark stockholders should not send in their stock certificates at this time. If the merger proceeds, CVS’ exchange agent will send former Caremark stockholders a letter of transmittal explaining what they must do to exchange their Caremark stock certificates or transfer uncertificated shares for the merger consideration payable to them.
     
      CVS stockholders will retain their current stock certificates after the merger and should not send in their stock certificates.
     
    Q:      Can I dissent and require appraisal of my shares?
     
    A:      No. Under Delaware law, CVS and Caremark stockholders have no right to an appraisal of the value of their shares in connection with the merger.
     
    Q:      Are there risks involved in undertaking the merger?
     
    A:      Yes. In evaluating the merger, CVS and Caremark stockholders should carefully consider the factors discussed in “Risk Factors” beginning on page 25 and other information about CVS and Caremark included in the documents incorporated by reference into this document.
     
    Q:      When do you expect to complete the merger?
     
    A:      CVS and Caremark are working to complete the merger as quickly as practicable. However, CVS and Caremark cannot assure you when or if the merger will be completed. Completion of the merger is subject to satisfaction or waiver of the conditions specified in the merger agreement, including receipt of the necessary approvals of CVS’ and Caremark’s stockholders at their respective special meeting and any necessary regulatory approvals. It is possible that factors outside the control of both companies could result in the merger being completed later than expected. Neither CVS nor Caremark can predict the exact timing of completion of the merger. See “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99.
     
    Q:      Whom should I call with questions?
     
    A:      CVS Stockholders. If you have additional questions about the merger, you should contact:
       
     

    CVS Corporation
    One CVS Drive
    Woonsocket, RI 02895
    Attention: Investor Relations
    Phone Number: (800) 201-0938
    E-mail Address: investorinfo@cvs.com

    If you would like additional copies of this document, or if you have questions about the merger, you should contact:

    Morrow & Co., Inc.
    470 West Avenue
    Stamford, CT 06902
    Phone Number: (800) 245-1502 (toll-free)

     

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    Caremark Stockholders. If you have additional questions about the merger, you should contact:

    Caremark Rx, Inc.
    211 Commerce Street, Suite 800
    Nashville, TN 37201
    Attention: Investor Relations
    Phone Number: (800) 633-9509
    E-mail Address: investorinfo@caremark.com

    If you would like additional copies of this document, or if you have questions about the merger, you should contact:

    Innisfree M&A Incorporated
    501 Madison Avenue, 20
    th Floor
    New York, NY 10022
    Phone Number:      Stockholders: (877) 750-9498 (toll-free)
    Phone Number:      Banks and Brokers: (212) 750-5833 (collect)

       

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    SUMMARY

         This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this document. It does not contain all of the information that may be important to you. You are urged to read carefully this entire document, including the attached annexes, and the other documents to which this document refers you in order for you to fully understand the proposed merger. See “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140. Each item in this summary refers to the page of this document on which that subject is discussed in more detail.

    The Companies

    CVS Corporation (see page 89)

    One CVS Drive
    Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895
    (401) 765-1500
    http://investor.cvs.com1

         CVS is a leader in the retail drug industry in the U.S. operating approximately 6200 retail and specialty pharmacy stores in 43 states and the District of Columbia, which is more stores than any other pharmacy chain. CVS currently operates in 71 of the top 100 U.S. drugstore markets and holds the number one or number two market share in 50 of these markets. CVS serves the healthcare needs of its customers through a number of distribution channels, including CVS/pharmacy stores, CVS.com (its online pharmacy), MinuteClinic, its retail-based health clinic subsidiary, and PharmaCare, its pharmacy benefit management, mail services and specialty pharmacy subsidiary.

    Caremark Rx, Inc. (see page 89)

    211 Commerce Street, Suite 800
    Nashville, Tennessee 37201
    (615) 743-6600
    http://www.caremark.com2

         Caremark Rx, Inc. is a leading pharmaceutical services company in the United States. Caremark’s operations are conducted primarily through its subsidiaries, Caremark Inc. and CaremarkPCS (f/k/a AdvancePCS) and involve the design and administration of programs aimed at reducing the costs and improving the safety, effectiveness and convenience of prescription drug use. Caremark’s customers are primarily employers, insurance companies, unions, government employee groups, managed care organizations and other sponsors of health benefit plans and individuals throughout the United States. In addition, Caremark, through its SilverScript insurance subsidiary is a national provider of drug benefits to eligible beneficiaries under the federal government’s Medicare Part D program.

         Caremark operates a national retail pharmacy network with over 60,000 participating pharmacies (including CVS/pharmacy stores), 7 mail service pharmacies, 21 specialty mail service pharmacies and the industry’s only repackaging plant regulated by the Food & Drug Administration. Through its Accordant disease management offering, Caremark also provides disease management programs for 27 conditions. Twenty-one of these programs are accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.


    1 The information contained on CVS’ website is expressly not incorporated by reference into this document.

    2 The information contained on Caremark’s website is expressly not incorporated by reference into this document.

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    The Merger

         The Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 1, 2006, among CVS, Caremark and Twain MergerSub Corp., which is referred to as the merger agreement, is attached as Annex A to this document. Caremark and CVS encourage you to read carefully the merger agreement in its entirety because it is the principal legal agreement that governs the merger.

    Structure of the Merger (see page 37)

         Subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement and in accordance with Delaware law, at the effective time of the merger, Twain MergerSub Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS formed for the purpose of the merger, will merge with and into Caremark. After the merger is completed, Caremark will be a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS, and the combined company will change its name to CVS/Caremark Corporation. Accordingly, after the effective time of the merger, shares of Caremark common stock will no longer be publicly traded.

    Merger Consideration (see page 91)

         Caremark Stockholders. As a result of the merger, Caremark stockholders will be entitled to receive, for each share of Caremark common stock that they own, 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. The number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock delivered in respect of each share of Caremark common stock in the merger is referred to as the exchange ratio. The combined company will not issue any fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger. Instead, Caremark stockholders will receive cash for any fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that they otherwise would receive in the merger. The amount of cash for fractional shares will be calculated by multiplying the fraction of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock to which the Caremark stockholder would be entitled to receive in the merger by the closing sale price of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock on the first trading day immediately following the effective time of the merger. The CVS/Caremark common stock received based on the exchange ratio, together with any cash received in lieu of fractional shares, is referred to as the merger consideration. For more information about fractional share treatment, please see “The Merger Agreement—Fractional Shares” beginning on page 92 and for more information about the treatment of Caremark options, please see “The Merger Agreement—Caremark Stock Options” beginning on page 92.

         CVS Stockholders. CVS stockholders will continue to own their existing shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock after the merger. Each share of CVS common stock or CVS ESOP preference stock will represent one share of common stock or ESOP preference stock, respectively, in the combined company. CVS stockholders should not send in their stock certificates in connection with the merger.

    Ownership of the Combined Company After the Merger

         The combined company will issue approximately 712.3 million shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger based on the number of shares of Caremark common stock outstanding on December 14, 2006. At the completion of the merger, it is expected that there will be outstanding approximately 1.56 billion shares of common stock of the combined company. The shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issued to Caremark stockholders in the merger will represent approximately 45.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company immediately after the merger on a fully diluted basis including shares reserved for issuance upon exercise of options and warrants. Shares of CVS/Caremark common stock held by CVS stockholders will represent approximately 54.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company immediately after the merger on a fully diluted basis.

    Comparative Market Prices and Share Information (see page 22 and page 23)

         CVS common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “CVS”. Caremark common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “CMX”. The following table sets forth the closing sale prices of CVS common stock as reported on the NYSE and the closing sale prices of Caremark common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange, each on October 31, 2006, the last trading day before CVS and Caremark announced the transaction, and on [•], 200[•]. This table also shows the implied value of a Caremark common share, which was calculated by multiplying the closing price of CVS common stock on those dates by the exchange ratio of 1.670.

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        CVS Common Stock   Caremark Common Stock   Implied Value of Caremark Common
    Stock



    October 31, 2006   $31.38   $49.23   $52.40
    [•], 2007   $[•]   $[•]   $[•]

         The market prices of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock will fluctuate before the special meetings and before the merger is completed. Therefore, you should obtain current market quotations for CVS common stock and Caremark common stock.

    Recommendations to Stockholders

         Recommendations to CVS Stockholders. The CVS board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the merger and other transactions contemplated therein, including the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock and the amendments to CVS’ charter are advisable and in the best interests of CVS and its stockholders. The CVS board of directors recommends that CVS stockholders vote:

    • “FOR” the amendments to the CVS charter to change CVS’ name to CVS/Caremark Corporation and to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion shares;


    • “FOR” the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger; and


    • “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals.

         For additional information see “The CVS Special Meeting—Board Recommendations” beginning on page 103.

         Recommendations to Caremark Stockholders. The Caremark board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the merger contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of Caremark and its stockholders. The Caremark board of directors recommends that Caremark stockholders vote:

    • “FOR” the adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger; and


    • “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals.

         For additional information see “The Caremark Special Meeting—Board Recommendations” beginning on page 108.

    Opinions of Financial Advisors (see pages 46 and 66)

         CVS. In connection with the merger, the CVS board of directors received separate oral opinions, which were followed later by the delivery of separate written opinions from CVS’ financial advisors, Evercore Group L.L.C., which is referred to as Evercore, and Lehman Brothers Inc., which is referred to as Lehman Brothers, as to the fairness, from a financial point of view and as of the date of such opinions, of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger to CVS. The written opinions of Evercore and Lehman Brothers, each dated November 1, 2006, are attached to this document as Annex D and Annex E, respectively. CVS stockholders are encouraged to read these opinions carefully in their entirety for a description of the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken. Evercore’s and Lehman Brothers’ opinions as to the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio to CVS were provided to the CVS board of directors in connection with its evaluation of the exchange ratio from a financial point of view, do not address any other aspect of the merger and do not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how to vote or act with respect to the merger.

         Caremark. In connection with the merger, the Caremark board of directors received separate oral opinions, which were followed later by the delivery of separate written opinions from Caremark’s financial advisors, UBS Securities LLC, which is referred to as UBS, and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., which is referred to as JPMorgan, as to

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    the fairness, from a financial point of view and as of the date of such opinions, of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger. The written opinions of UBS and JPMorgan, each dated November 1, 2006, are attached to this document as Annex F and Annex G, respectively. Holders of Caremark common stock are encouraged to read these opinions carefully in their entirety for a description of the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and limitations on the review undertaken. UBS’ and JPMorgan’s opinions as to the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio were provided to the Caremark board of directors in connection with its evaluation of the exchange ratio from a financial point of view, do not address any other aspect of the merger and do not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how to vote or act with respect to the merger.

    Treatment of Caremark Options (see page 92)

         At the effective time of the merger, each outstanding option to purchase shares of Caremark common stock, which is referred to as a Caremark option, will be converted into an option to purchase shares of CVS/Caremark common stock on the same terms and conditions as were applicable before the merger except that each option will allow the holder thereof to purchase a number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock equal to (1) the number of shares of Caremark common stock subject to the Caremark option before the completion of the merger multiplied by (2) 1.670, rounded down to the nearest whole share. In addition, at the effective time of the merger, each option to purchase shares of the combined company common stock will have an exercise price per share equal to (1) the aggregate exercise price required to purchase all shares of Caremark common stock subject to the Caremark option before the completion of the merger divided by (2) the number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock subject to the option after completion of the merger, rounded up to the nearest whole cent.

    Interests of CVS’ and Caremark’s Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger (see pages 61 and 72)

         When you consider the CVS and Caremark board of directors’ respective recommendations that stockholders vote in favor of the proposals described in this document, you should be aware that (1) some Caremark executive officers and directors may have interests that may be different from, or in addition to, Caremark stockholders’ interests, including but not limited to, their receipt of severance benefits under existing Caremark employment arrangements, entry into employment arrangements with the combined company, accelerated vesting of Caremark options and participation in various benefits plans and (2) some CVS executive officers and directors may have interests that may be different from, or in addition to, CVS stockholders’ interests.

    No Appraisal or Dissenters’ Rights (see page 82)

         Under Delaware law, CVS and Caremark stockholders have no right to an appraisal of the value of their shares in connection with the merger.

    Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger (see page 85)

         A Caremark stockholder’s receipt of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger will generally be tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes, except for taxes that may result from any receipt of cash in lieu of a fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock. There will be no U.S. federal income tax consequences to a holder of CVS common stock as a result of the Merger.

         The U.S. federal income tax consequences described above may not apply to some holders of Caremark common stock, including some types of holders specifically referred to on page 85. Accordingly, please consult your tax advisor for a full understanding of the particular tax consequences of the merger to you.

    Accounting Treatment (see page 81).

         CVS/Caremark will account for the merger under the purchase method of accounting for business transactions. In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., which is referred to as U.S. GAAP, CVS will be considered the acquiror of Caremark for accounting purposes.

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    Regulatory Approvals (see page 87)

         The merger is subject to review by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice and state antitrust authorities pursuant to applicable federal and state antitrust laws. Under the provisions of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder, which is referred to as the HSR Act, the merger cannot be completed until the companies have made required notifications, given certain information and materials to the Federal Trade Commission and to the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and a required waiting period has expired or been terminated. CVS and Caremark filed the required notification and report forms with the Antitrust Division and the Federal Trade Commission on November 20, 2006. CVS and Caremark have been informed that Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia and the District of Columbia are reviewing the merger from an antitrust perspective. CVS and Caremark have cooperated and will continue to cooperate with these states in their review.

         As described further under “Risk Factors”, Caremark’s and CVS’ businesses are subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations including, but not limited to, healthcare regulatory laws and regulations applicable to the following: the licensure and regulation of pharmacies and pharmacists and other healthcare professionals; Medicare, Medicaid and other government reimbursement programs; the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA; the storage, advertisement, promotion, sale and distribution of controlled substances and other products; and the like. Certain of these healthcare regulatory laws and regulations may require filings or approvals in connection with the completion of the merger; however, it is not expected that (1) any such filings or approvals would delay the merger or (2) the failure to make any such filings or obtain any such approvals prior to the merger would have a material adverse effect on either of CVS or Caremark.

    Listing of CVS/Caremark Common Stock (see page 93)

         CVS has agreed to use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to be issued in the merger and the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to be reserved for issuance upon exercise of the Caremark stock options and warrants to be approved for listing on the NYSE. It is also a condition to the merger that the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issuable in the merger be approved for listing on the NYSE on or prior to the effective time of the merger.

    Conditions to Completion of the Merger (see page 99)

         CVS and Caremark will be required to complete the merger only if specific conditions, including the following, are satisfied or waived:

    • approval of (1) the amendment of the CVS charter to increase its authorized shares and (2) the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger, in each case, by the requisite vote of the CVS stockholders;


    • the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger by the requisite vote of the Caremark stockholders;


    • absence of any applicable law prohibiting or preventing the completion of the merger;


    • expiration or termination of the waiting period (and any extension thereof) applicable to the merger under the HSR Act;


    • the effectiveness of, and the absence of any stop order with respect to, the registration statement on Form S-4 of which this document forms a part;


    • approval for listing on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance, of the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issuable in the merger to Caremark’s stockholders;

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    • receipt of all required approvals of any governmental authority, subject to certain exceptions as described herein (see “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99);


    • absence of legal prohibitions issued or deemed applicable to the merger that would reasonably be expected to (1) materially and adversely diminish the benefits expected to be derived by the parties on the date of the merger agreement from the combination of CVS and Caremark via the merger (such combined business to be taken as a whole), in such a manner that either CVS or Caremark would not have entered into the merger agreement in the face of such materially and adversely diminished benefits, or (2) otherwise have a material adverse effect (see “The Merger Agreement—Representations and Warranties” beginning on page 93 for a definition of material adverse effect) after the effective time of the merger on CVS/Caremark and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole;


    • CVS having taken all actions necessary to cause the amended charter and amended bylaws of the combined company to be effective at the effective time of the merger and to ensure that the CVS/Caremark board of directors is comprised in the manner contemplated by the merger agreement;


    • receipt of opinions of CVS’ and Caremark’s counsel that the merger will qualify as a tax-free reorganization;


    • the representations and warranties made by each party being true in all respects (but without regard to materiality qualifications or references to material adverse effect that may be contained in any representation or warranty) as of the effective time of the merger (except for representations and warranties expressly made as of a specific date, the accuracy of which will be determined as of such specified date), except where failure of such representations and warranties to be true would not reasonably be expected to have, whether individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on the party making the representation or warranty; and


    • each party having performed in all material respects the obligations required to be performed by it at or before the effective time of the merger.

    Termination of the Merger Agreement (see page 100)

         The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the effective time of the merger by mutual written consent of CVS and Caremark.

         The merger agreement may also be terminated prior to the effective time of the merger by either CVS or Caremark if:

    • the merger has not been completed by November 1, 2007, unless the only reason that the merger has not occurred by November 1, 2007 is that the waiting period applicable to the merger under the HSR Act has not expired or been terminated, in which case the termination date will be extended to May 1, 2008;


    • there is a permanent legal prohibition to completing the merger; or


    • Caremark stockholders or CVS stockholders fail to give the necessary approval at their special meetings or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

         The merger agreement may also be terminated prior to the effective time of the merger by CVS if:

    • the Caremark board of directors has made a change in recommendation (see “The Merger Agreement— Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95);


    • there has been a willful or material breach by Caremark of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant in the merger agreement (see “The Merger Agreement—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95);

    11






    • for any reason Caremark fails to call and hold a meeting of the Caremark stockholders to consider the adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger as required by the merger agreement; or


    • Caremark has breached any of its representations or warranties or failed to perform any of its covenants or agreements set forth in the merger agreement, if such breach or failure to perform would result in the failure to satisfy the closing condition of the merger relating to the accuracy of the representations and warranties or compliance with covenants contained in the merger agreement by November 1, 2007 (or, May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement).

         The merger agreement may also be terminated prior to the effective time of the merger by Caremark if:

    • the CVS board of directors has made a change in recommendation (see “The Merger Agreement—Certain Covenants— No Solicitation” beginning on page 95);


    • there has been a willful or material breach by CVS of its obligations under the no solicitation covenant in the merger agreement (see “The Merger Agreement—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95);


    • for any reason CVS fails to call and hold a meeting of the CVS stockholders to consider the approval of the amendments to the CVS charter and the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger as required by the merger agreement; or


    • CVS has breached any of its representations or warranties or failed to perform any of its covenants or agreements set forth in the merger agreement, if such breach or failure to perform would result in the failure to satisfy the closing condition of the merger relating to the accuracy of the representations and warranties or compliance with covenants contained in the merger agreement by November 1, 2007 (or, May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement).

    Termination Fees and Expenses (see page 101)

         Termination Fee Payable by CVS. CVS has agreed to pay a fee of $675 million to Caremark if the merger agreement is terminated under any of the following circumstances:

    • the CVS board of directors makes a change in recommendation;


    • CVS willfully and materially breaches certain obligations not to solicit acquisition proposals or fails to call a stockholders’ meeting to vote on the proposals to amend the CVS charter and issue CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger; or


    • the merger is not consummated by November 1, 2007 (or, May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement) or CVS’ stockholders fail to approve the proposals to amend the CVS charter and to issue CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger, in each case, only if (1) a third party has made an acquisition proposal before the CVS special meeting and (2) within 12 months of the termination of the merger agreement, CVS enters into an alternative transaction.

         Termination Fee Payable by Caremark. Caremark has agreed to pay a fee of $675 million to CVS if the merger agreement is terminated under any of the following circumstances:

    • the Caremark board of directors makes a change in recommendation;


    • Caremark willfully and materially breaches certain obligations not to solicit acquisition proposals or fails to call a stockholders’ meeting to vote on the merger agreement and merger; or


    • the merger is not consummated by November 1, 2007 (or, May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement) or Caremark’s stockholders fail to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger, in each case, only if (1) a third party has made an acquisition proposal before the Caremark special

    12






    meeting and (2) within 12 months of the termination of the merger agreement, Caremark enters into an alternative transaction.

    Headquarters (see page 114)

         The combined company’s corporate headquarters will be located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. The headquarters of the combined company’s pharmacy services business will be located in Nashville, Tennessee.

    Executive Officers (see page 113)

         CVS and Caremark have agreed that E. Mac Crawford will be the chairman of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and Thomas M. Ryan will be the chief executive officer and a director of CVS/Caremark. A vote of three-quarters of the board of directors will be required to remove Mr. Ryan as CVS/Caremark’s chief executive officer prior to January 2010.

         Certain current executive officers of CVS and Caremark will have executive officer positions with the combined company after the merger.

    Governance After the Merger (see page 113)

         In connection with the merger, the parties have reached certain agreements regarding the governance of CVS/Caremark, including the following:

    • After the merger, the board of directors of the combined company will be comprised of an equal number of directors to be selected by each of CVS and Caremark. Commencing with the first annual meeting of CVS/Caremark stockholders after the effective time of the merger, composition of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and its committees will be determined by the nomination and election process provided for in the amended CVS charter, amended CVS bylaws and Delaware law.


    • The CVS/Caremark board of directors will have a standing audit committee; management, planning and development committee; nominating and corporate governance committee and executive committee. At the effective time of the merger, the chairman of the CVS/Caremark audit committee will be selected by the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by Caremark and the chairman of each of the management, planning and development committee and the nominating and corporate governance committee will be selected by the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by CVS.


    • At the effective time of the merger, the executive committee of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will consist of four directors: the chairman of the combined company’s board of directors, its chief executive officer, one director selected by the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by CVS and one director selected by the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by Caremark.


    • Prior to the first annual meeting of CVS/Caremark stockholders after the effective time of the merger a director designated to the CVS/Caremark board of directors by CVS, referred to as a CVS-designated director, may only be removed by a majority vote of the other CVS-designated directors, and any vacancy on the CVS/Caremark board of directors resulting from the death, removal or resignation of any CVS- designated director may only be filled by the remaining CVS-designated directors.


    • Prior to the first annual meeting of CVS/Caremark stockholders after the effective time of the merger, a director designated to the CVS/Caremark board of directors by Caremark, referred to as a Caremark- designated director, may only be removed by a majority vote of the other Caremark-designated directors, and any vacancy on the CVS/Caremark board of directors resulting from the death, removal or resignation of any Caremark-designated director may only be filled by the remaining Caremark-designated directors.

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    CVS Bylaws Amendment (see page 113)

         In connection with entering into the merger agreement, the CVS board of directors approved amendments to the CVS bylaws, which will become effective only upon the effective time of the merger. The amendments to the CVS bylaws will:

    • increase the size of the CVS board of directors to an even number to be agreed by CVS and Caremark before the effective time of the merger (as described above under “—Governance After the Merger”);


    • increase the number of directors comprising a quorum of the combined company’s board of directors from one-third to a majority of the total number of CVS/Caremark directors; and


    • give effect to the governance provisions described above under “—Governance After the Merger”.

         In addition, the CVS bylaws amendment will provide that the following decisions by the CVS/Caremark board of directors will require a three-quarters vote:

    • the removal of Thomas M. Ryan as chief executive officer of CVS/Caremark prior to January 2010 (as described above under “—Executive Officers”);


    • any decision to change the headquarters of the combined company’s pharmacy services business from Nashville, Tennessee prior to the third anniversary of the effective time of the merger; and


    • any amendment to the provisions of the bylaws with respect to the two immediately preceding bullets or the provisions of the bylaws giving effect to the matters described above under “—Governance After the Merger”.

    Special Meetings of CVS and Caremark Stockholders

    CVS Special Meeting (see page 103)

         Meeting. The CVS special meeting will be held on [•], 2007, at [•] a.m., Eastern Time, at CVS’ corporate headquarters, One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895. At the CVS special meeting, CVS stockholders will be asked:

    • to approve the amendments of the CVS charter, effective upon completion of the merger, to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion shares and to change CVS’ name to “CVS/Caremark Corporation”;


    • to approve the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger; and


    • to approve an adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals.

         Record Date; Votes. CVS has fixed the close of business on [•], 2007 as the record date, which is referred to as the CVS record date, for determining the CVS stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the CVS special meeting. Only holders of record of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock on the CVS record date are entitled to receive notice of and vote at the CVS special meeting, and any adjournment or postponement thereof.

         Each share of CVS common stock is entitled to one vote and each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to the number of votes equal to the number of shares of CVS common stock into which that share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to be converted on the CVS record date, rounded up to the nearest tenth of a share. Each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is currently entitled to 4.6 votes at the CVS special meeting (subject to adjustment before the CVS special meeting in the case of certain dilutive events). On the CVS record date, there were [] shares of CVS common stock and [] shares of CVS ESOP preference stock (representing [] votes in the aggregate) entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting.

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          Required Vote. The CVS proposals require different percentages of votes for approval:

    • the approval of the amendments of the CVS charter requires the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes represented by the outstanding CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting, voting together as a single class;


    • the approval of the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger requires the affirmative vote of holders of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, representing a majority of the votes cast in person or represented by proxy at the CVS special meeting, provided that the total number of votes cast on the proposal represents over 50% of the total number of votes of the CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock entitled to be cast at the CVS special meeting; and


    • the approval of an adjournment or postponement of the CVS special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes for each of the foregoing proposals requires the affirmative vote of holders of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, representing a majority of the votes cast in person or represented by proxy at the CVS special meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal.

         Each of the first two proposals listed above relating to the merger (i.e., the amendments of the CVS charter and the CVS/Caremark common stock issuance) are conditioned on one another and the approval of each of these proposals is a condition to completion of the merger. Neither the amendments of the CVS charter nor the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger will take place unless both of these proposals are approved by the CVS stockholders and the merger is completed. Therefore, the completion of the merger cannot proceed without the approval of both proposals.

         Failure to Vote; Abstentions. If you abstain from voting on the proposal to amend the CVS charter or the proposal to adjourn or postpone the meeting it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” that proposal. If you abstain from voting on the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock, the abstention will have no effect in determining the outcome of the vote, assuming a quorum is present. If you fail to vote your CVS common stock, including broker non-votes, (1) on the proposal to amend the CVS charter it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” that proposal and (2) on either the proposal to issue CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger or to adjourn or postpone the CVS special meeting, it will have no effect in determining the outcome of the applicable vote. For more information regarding the effect of abstentions, a failure to vote or broker non-votes, see “The CVS Special Meeting—Votes Required to Approve CVS Proposals” beginning on page 105.

         Each participant in the CVS Plan instructs the trustee of the CVS Plan how to vote his or her shares of (1) CVS ESOP preference stock and (2) CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan. Unallocated shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan and shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan for which no voting instruction is timely received by the trustee of the CVS Plan will be voted by such trustee in the same proportion as such trustee votes all the shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan as to which it has received timely voting instructions.

         Revocation of Proxies. You have the power to revoke your proxy at any time before the proxy is voted at the CVS special meeting. You can revoke your proxy in one of four ways:

    • you can send a signed notice of revocation;


    • you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date;


    • you can revoke the proxy in accordance with the telephone or Internet voting procedures described in the proxy voting instructions attached to the proxy card; or

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    • if you are a holder of record, you can attend the CVS special meeting and vote in person which will automatically cancel any proxy previously given, but your attendance alone will not revoke any proxy that you have previously given.

         If you choose either of the first two methods, you must submit your notice of revocation or your new proxy to CVS’ Corporate Secretary at the CVS address under “The Companies” beginning on page 89 no later than the beginning of the CVS special meeting.

         Stock Ownership of CVS Directors and Executive Officers. On [•], 2007, the CVS record date, directors and executive officers of CVS and their respective affiliates owned and were entitled to vote [•] shares of CVS common stock, or approximately [•]% of the shares of CVS common stock outstanding on that date. To CVS’ knowledge, the directors and executive officers of CVS and their respective affiliates intend to vote their shares of CVS common stock in favor of all CVS proposals at the CVS special meeting.

    Caremark Special Meeting (see page 108)

         Meeting. The Caremark special meeting will be held on [•], 2007, at [•] a.m., Central Time, at Caremark’s corporate headquarters at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, Tennessee 37201. At the Caremark special meeting, Caremark stockholders will be asked:

    • to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, pursuant to which Caremark will become a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS; and


    • to approve an adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger if there are not sufficient votes for such proposal.

         Record Date; Votes. Caremark has fixed the close of business on [•], 2007 as the record date, which is referred to as the Caremark record date, for determining the Caremark stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Caremark special meeting. Only holders of record of Caremark common stock on the Caremark record date are entitled to receive notice of and vote at the Caremark special meeting, and any adjournment or postponement thereof.

         Each share of Caremark common stock is entitled to one vote. On the Caremark record date, there were [•] shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.

         Required Vote. The proposals require different percentages of votes in order to approve them:

    • The adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger require the affirmative vote of holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.


    • The approval of an adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of such adoption and approval requires the affirmative vote of holders of Caremark common stock representing a majority of the voting power of such shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Caremark special meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal.

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    Adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger by Caremark stockholders is a condition to completion of the merger.

         Failure to Vote; Abstentions. If you abstain from voting on any proposal it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” that proposal. If you fail to vote, including broker non-votes, (1) on the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, it will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” that proposal and (2) on the proposal to adjourn or postpone the Caremark special meeting, it will have no effect in determining the outcome of the applicable vote. For more information regarding the effect of abstentions, a failure to vote or broker non-votes, see “The Caremark Special Meeting—Votes Required to Approve Caremark Proposals” beginning on page 109.

         Revocation of Proxies. You have the power to revoke your proxy at any time before the proxy is voted at the Caremark special meeting. You can revoke your proxy in one of four ways:

    • you can send a signed notice of revocation;


    • you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date;


    • you can revoke the proxy in accordance with the telephone or Internet voting procedures described in the proxy voting instructions attached to the proxy card; or


    • if you are a holder of record, you can attend the Caremark special meeting and vote in person which will automatically cancel any proxy previously given, but your attendance alone will not revoke any proxy that you have previously given.

         If you choose either of the first two methods, you must submit your notice of revocation or your new proxy to Caremark’s Corporate Secretary at the Caremark address under “The Companies” beginning on page 89 no later than the beginning of the Caremark special meeting.

         Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers. On [•], 2007, the Caremark record date, directors and executive officers of Caremark and their respective affiliates owned and were entitled to vote [•] shares of Caremark common stock, or approximately [•]% of the shares of Caremark common stock outstanding on that date. To Caremark’s knowledge, the directors and executive officers of Caremark and their respective affiliates intend to vote their shares of Caremark common stock in favor of both Caremark proposals at the Caremark special meeting.

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    SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA OF CVS

         The following tables set forth the selected historical consolidated financial and operating data for CVS. The selected consolidated financial and operating data as of and for the fifty-two week periods ended December 31, 2005, January 1, 2005, December 28, 2002, December 29, 2001 and the fifty-three week period ended January 3, 2004 have been derived from CVS’ consolidated financial statements. You should not take historical results as necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. The selected consolidated financial and operating data as of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and October 1, 2005 have been derived from CVS’ unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements. The results for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year.

         You should read this selected consolidated financial and operating data in conjunction with CVS’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and CVS’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006.

        Nine Months Ended   Fiscal Year

                      2005     2004     2003     2002     2001
          9/30/06     10/01/05     (52 weeks)     (52 weeks)      (53 weeks)     (52 weeks)     (52 weeks)














        ($ in millions, except per share amounts)
    Historical Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:                              
       Net revenues   $ 31,747.5   $ 27,274.2   $ 37,006.2   $ 30,594.3   $ 26,588.0   $ 24,181.5   $ 22,241.4
       Gross profit(1)     8,573.7     7,199.2     9,901.2     8,031.2     6,863.0     6,068.8     5,691.0
       Selling, general                                          
           & administrative(2)     6,349.5     5,349.6     7,292.6     6,079.7     5,097.7     4,552.3     4,256.3
       Depreciation and                                          
           amortization(2)(3)     531.9     433.2     589.1     496.8     341.7     310.3     320.8
       Merger, restructuring and other                                          
           nonrecurring charges and                                          
           gains                             343.3
       Operating profit(4)     1,692.3     1,416.4     2,019.5     1,454.7     1,423.6     1,206.2     770.6
       Other expense (income), net     134.7     83.6     110.5     58.3     48.1     50.4     61.0
       Income tax provision(5)     605.9     514.5     684.3     477.6     528.2     439.2     296.4
       Net earnings(6)   $ 951.7   $ 818.3   $ 1,224.7   $ 918.8   $ 847.3   $ 716.6   $ 413.2
    Historical Per Common Share Data(7):                                  
       Net earnings(6)                                          
           Basic   $ 1.15   $ 1.00   $ 1.49   $ 1.13   $ 1.06   $ 0.89   $ 0.51
           Diluted     1.11     0.97     1.45     1.10     1.03     0.88     0.50
       Cash dividends per common                                          
           share   $ 0.11625   $ 0.10875   $ 0.145   $ 0.1325   $ 0.115   $ 0.115   $ 0.115
    Historical consolidated Balance Sheet Data:                                  
       Total assets   $ 21,127.4   $ 15,225.9   $ 15,283.4   $ 14,546.8   $ 10,543.1   $ 9,645.3   $ 8,636.3
       Long term debt     3,279.9     1,627.9     1,594.1     1,925.9     753.1     1,076.3     810.4
       Total stockholders’ equity     9,434.4     7,955.6     8,331.2     6,987.2     6,021.8     5,197.0     4,566.9


    (1)      Gross profit includes the pre-tax effect of $5.7 million ($3.6 million after-tax) non-recurring charge in 2001 related to the markdown of certain inventory contained in the stores as part of a strategic restructuring program.
     
    (2)      In 2004, CVS conformed its accounting for operating leases and leasehold improvements to the views expressed by the Office of the Chief Accountant of the Securities and Exchange Commission to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants on February 7, 2005. As a result, CVS recorded a non-cash pre-tax adjustment of $9.0 million ($5.4 million after-tax) to selling, general and administrative expenses and $56.9 million ($35.1 million after tax) to depreciation and amortization, which represents the cumulative effect of the adjustment for a period of approximately 20 years. Since the effect of this non-cash adjustment was not material to any previously reported fiscal year, the cumulative effect was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2004.
     
    (3)      As a result of adopting SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” at the beginning of fiscal 2002, CVS no longer amortizes goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets. Goodwill amortization totaled $31.4 million pre-tax ($28.2 million after-tax) in 2001.
     
    (4)      Operating profit includes the pre-tax effect of the charges discussed in Note (1) above and the following merger, restructuring, and other nonrecurring charges and gains: (i) in 2004, $65.9 million ($40.5 million after-tax) relating to conforming CVS’ accounting for operating leases and leasehold improvements and (ii) in 2001, $346.8 million ($226.9 million after-tax) related to restructuring and asset impairment costs associated with the strategic restructuring and $3.5 million ($2.1 million after-tax) non-recurring gain resulting from the net effect of the $50.3 million of settlement proceeds received from various lawsuits against certain manufacturers of brand name prescription drugs
     

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      which was offset by our contribution of $46.8 million of these settlement proceeds to the CVS Charitable Trust, Inc. to fund future charitable giving.
     
    (5)      Income tax provision includes the effect of the following: (i) in 2005, a $52.6 million reversal of previously recorded tax reserves through the tax provision principally based on resolving certain state tax matters, and (ii) in 2004, a $60.0 million reversal of previously recorded tax reserves through the tax provision principally based on finalizing certain tax return years and on a 2004 court decision relevant to the industry.
     
    (6)      Net earnings and net earnings per common share include the after-tax effect of the charges and gains discussed in Notes (1), (2), (3), (4) and (5) above.
     
    (7)      On May 12, 2005, the CVS board of directors authorized a two-for-one common stock split, which was effected in the form of a dividend by the issuance of one additional share of CVS common stock for each share of CVS common stock outstanding. These shares were distributed on June 6, 2005 to stockholders of record as of May 23, 2005. All prior periods have been restated to reflect the effect of the two-for-one stock split.
     

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    SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA OF CAREMARK

         The following tables set forth the selected historical consolidated financial and operating data for Caremark. The selected consolidated financial and operating data as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 have been derived from Caremark’s consolidated financial statements. You should not take historical results as necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. The selected consolidated financial and operating data as of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005 have been derived from Caremark’s unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements. The results for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year.

         You should read this selected consolidated financial and operating data in conjunction with Caremark’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and Caremark’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006.

        Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
      Year Ended December 31,
     
     
    Historical Consolidated Statement of     2006     2005     2005     2004     2003     2002(1)     2001  
















    Operations Data:   ($ in millions, except per share amounts)
       Net revenues   $ 27,480.8   $ 24,623.5   $ 32,991.3   $ 25,801.1   $ 9,067.3   $ 6,805.3     $ 5,614.0  
       Income from continuing operations     772.5     641.7     932.4     600.3     290.8     828.8       190.5  
       Loss from discontinued operations                         (37.5 )      
       Net earnings   $ 772.5   $ 641.7   $ 932.4   $ 600.3   $ 290.8   $ 791.3     $ 190.5  
    Historical Per Common Share Data:                                              
       Net earnings                                              
            Basic   $ 1.79   $ 1.43   $ 2.09   $ 1.46   $ 1.13   $ 3.34     $ 0.79  
            Diluted     1.76     1.41     2.05     1.43     1.10     3.01       0.73  
       Cash dividends per common share     0.20                            
    Historical consolidated Balance                                              
       Sheet Data:                                              
    Total assets   $ 12,356.0   $ 12,404.1   $ 12,850.8   $ 12,309.7   $ 2,473.6   $ 1,912.7     $ 873.7  
    Long term debt (net of current portion) (2)         450.0     386.6     450.0     693.1     695.6       695.6  
    Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)     7,470.6     7,898.5     8,180.6     7,539.7     640.6     257.7       (772.5 )


    (1)      The 2002 period includes amounts related to adjustments to the deferred income tax asset valuation allowance. This adjustment resulted in the recognition of: (i) a $520 million deferred tax benefit included in income from continuing operations and related statement of operations and per common share line items; (ii) a $615 million deferred tax asset included in total assets; and (iii) a direct increase to stockholder’s equity of approximately $69.5 million.
     
    (2)      The December 31, 2005 long-term debt (net of current portion) reflects the classification of $386.6 million of 7.375% senior notes due 2006 as long-term debt due to Caremark’s intent and ability to refinance this amount on a long-term basis at the time of filing its Annual Report on Form 10-K. The amount classified as long-term debt (net of current portion) was limited to Caremark’s availability under its revolving credit facility, and the remaining $63.4 million of its 7.375% senior notes were classified as a current liability. Caremark ultimately did not refinance these notes and repaid them using cash on hand when they matured in October 2006. The December 31, 2004 long-term debt (net of current portion) amount excludes Caremark’s $147 million term loan which was repaid on February 18, 2005, and the repurchase of remaining senior notes of a recently acquired business at 104.25% of face value on April 1, 2005.
     
    (3)      Caremark acquired AdvancePCS on March 24, 2004. The Statement of Operations data includes the results of operations of AdvancePCS beginning March 24, 2004. The Statement of Operations, Per Common Share and Balance Sheet data were significantly impacted by the AdvancePCS acquisition.
     

    20






    SUMMARY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA

         The following unaudited pro forma statements of operations data for the year ended December 31, 2005 and the nine months ended September 30, 2006 reflect the merger as if it had occurred on the first day of each period presented. The following unaudited pro forma balance sheet data at September 30, 2006 reflect the merger as if it had occurred on that date. Such pro forma financial data is based on the historical financial statements of CVS and Caremark and gives effect to the merger under the purchase method of accounting for business combinations as well as the acquisition CVS completed on June 2, 2006. As a result, the pro forma financial information is based on certain assumptions and adjustments as discussed in the section titled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information”, including assumptions relating to the allocation of the consideration paid for the assets and liabilities of Caremark based on preliminary estimates of their fair value. The following should be read in connection with the sections titled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information”, and other information included in or incorporated by reference into this document.

        Pro Forma Combined





    In millions, except per share amounts   Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31, 2005
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2006




    Statement of Operations data:            
         Net revenue   $ 71,655.2   $ 58,135.2
         Net earnings   $ 2,135.7   $ 1,693.8
                 
         Average number of common shares outstanding – basic     1,557.7     1,541.1
         Average number of common shares outstanding – diluted     1,602.8     1,586.2
                 
         Earnings per common share:   $ 1.36   $ 1.09
            Basic   $ 1.33   $ 1.07
            Diluted            
                 
    Balance Sheet data:            
         Cash and cash equivalents         $ 1,456.2
         Total assets         $ 47,875.1
         Long-term debt         $ 3,279.9
         Total stockholders’ equity         $ 30,961.2

    21






    COMPARATIVE PER SHARE INFORMATION

         The following unaudited pro forma combined per share information for the year ended December 31, 2005 and the nine months ended September 30, 2006 reflect the merger as if it had occurred on the first day of each period presented. Such pro forma financial data is based on the historical financial statements of CVS and Caremark and gives effect to the merger under the purchase method of accounting for business combinations as well as the acquisition CVS completed on June 2, 2006. As a result, the pro forma financial information is based on certain assumptions and adjustments as discussed in the section titled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information”. The following should be read in connection with the section titled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information”, and other information included in or incorporated by reference into this document.

    CVS Historical Per Share Data:            
        As of and for





        Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31, 2005
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2006




    Net Earnings per Common Share – Basic   $ 1.49   $ 1.15
    Net Earnings per Common Share – Diluted     1.45     1.11
    Cash Dividends                        0.145     0.11625
    Book Value per Common Share – Basic     11.46     10.23
                 
    Caremark Historical Per Share Data:            
        As of and for





        Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31, 2005
          Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2006




    Net Earnings per Common Share – Basic   $ 2.09    $ 1.79
    Net Earnings per Common Share – Diluted     2.05     1.76
    Cash Dividends         0.20
    Book Value per Common Share – Basic     17.75     18.34
                 
    Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Per Share Data:            
        As of and for





        Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31, 2005
          Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2006




    Net Earnings per Common Share – Basic   $ 1.36    $ 1.09
    Net Earnings per Common Share – Diluted     1.33     1.07
    Cash Dividends     0.145     0.11625
    Book Value per Common Share – Basic         20.29

    22






    COMPARATIVE PER SHARE MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION

         Shares of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock are each listed and principally traded on the NYSE. CVS common stock is listed for trading under the symbol “CVS” and Caremark common stock is listed for trading under the symbol “CMX”. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales prices per share of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock, in each case as reported on the consolidated tape of the NYSE, and the cash dividends per share of common stock, as reported, respectively, in CVS’ and Caremark’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 with respect to years 2004 and 2005, and thereafter as reported in published financial sources.

        CVS Common Stock   Caremark Common Stock






        Market Price       Market Price    


        High   Low   Dividends   High   Low   Dividends






    2004                        
             First Quarter   $19.26   $16.98   $0.03313   $34.19   $23.50   None
             Second Quarter   $21.50   $17.85   $0.03313   $35.31   $30.50   None
             Third Quarter   $22.07   $19.31   $0.03313   $32.94   $27.56   None
             Fourth Quarter   $23.67   $20.86   $0.03313   $39.95   $28.29   None
    2005                        
             First Quarter   $26.89   $22.02   $0.03625   $42.30   $37.00   None
             Second Quarter   $29.68   $25.02   $0.03625   $46.83   $37.23   None
             Third Quarter   $31.60   $27.67   $0.03625   $50.43   $41.02   None
             Fourth Quarter   $29.30   $23.89   $0.03625   $53.90   $47.24   None
    2006                        
             First Quarter   $30.98   $26.06   $0.03875   $53.00   $48.14   None
             Second Quarter   $31.89   $27.51   $0.03875   $50.66   $42.40   $0.10
             Third Quarter   $36.14   $29.85   $0.03875   $59.89   $49.40   $0.10
             October 1, 2006 to [•], 200[•]   $[•]   $[•]   [N/A]   $[•]   $[•]   [N/A]

         The table below sets forth the closing sale prices of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock as reported on the NYSE each on October 31, 2006, the last trading day prior to the public announcement of the transaction, and on [•], 200[•]. The table also shows the implied value of one Caremark common share, which was calculated by multiplying the closing price of CVS common stock on those dates and the exchange ratio of 1.670. The market prices of CVS and Caremark common stock on those dates will fluctuate between the date of this document and the time of the special meetings and the completion of the merger. No assurance can be given concerning the market prices of CVS common stock, or Caremark common stock before the completion of the merger or the market price of CVS/Caremark common stock after the completion of the merger. The exchange ratio is fixed in the merger agreement. One result of this is that the market value of the CVS/Caremark common stock that Caremark stockholders will receive in the merger may vary significantly form the prices shown in the table below.

        CVS
    Common Stock
      Caremark
    Common Stock
      Implied Value
    of Caremark
    Common Stock



    October 31, 2006   $31.38      $49.23          $52.40
                 
    [•], 200[•]      $[•]    $[•]   $[•]

    23






         Caremark stockholders should obtain current market quotations for shares of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock in deciding whether to vote for adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger. CVS stockholders should obtain current market quotations for shares of CVS and Caremark common stock in deciding whether to vote for approval of the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and the amendments of the CVS charter to increase the number of authorized shares and change the name of the corporation to CVS/Caremark.

         Pursuant to the merger agreement, CVS and Caremark are permitted to pay to holders of their respective shares of common stock, before the effective time of the merger, regular quarterly cash dividends. However, CVS and Caremark have also agreed to coordinate the declaration of dividends prior to the effective time of the merger so that the holders of CVS common stock and holders of Caremark common stock do not receive, in any quarter, more than or less than one dividend in respect of those shares held prior to the effective time of the merger and those shares of CVS/Caremark issued in the merger. After the effective time of the merger, CVS and Caremark expect that the combined company will continue to pay quarterly dividends to stockholders of the combined company at an annual dividend rate per share of CVS/Caremark common stock of $[•]. This is higher than the current annual dividend payment on shares of CVS common stock and equal to the current annual dividend of $0.40 on shares of Caremark common stock. The combined company’s payment of dividends in the future, however, will depend on business conditions, its financial condition and earnings, and other factors and there can be no guarantee that any dividends will be paid by the combined company.

    24






    RISK FACTORS

         In addition to the other information included and incorporated by reference into this document, including the matters addressed in “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” below, you should carefully consider the following risk factors before deciding whether to vote for adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger, in the case of Caremark stockholders, or for the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock and the amendments to the CVS charter, in the case of CVS stockholders. In addition to the risk factors set forth below, you should read and consider other risk factors specific to each of the CVS and Caremark businesses that will also affect the combined company after the merger, described in Part I, Item 1A of each company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and Part II, Item 1A of Caremark’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2006, each of which has been filed by CVS or Caremark, as applicable, with the SEC and all of which are incorporated by reference into this document. If any of the risks described below or in the periodic reports incorporated by reference into this document actually occurs, the respective businesses, financial results, financial condition, operating results or stock prices of CVS, Caremark or CVS/Caremark could be materially adversely affected. See “Where You Can Find More Information”, beginning on page 140.

    Risks Related to the Merger

     

    The exchange ratio is fixed and will not be adjusted. The market price of shares of CVS common stock may fluctuate, and Caremark stockholders cannot be sure of the market value of the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that will be issued in the merger.

         Upon completion of the merger, each share of Caremark common stock outstanding immediately prior to the merger will be converted into the right to receive 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. The exchange ratio is fixed at 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock for each share of Caremark common stock, and will not be adjusted due to any increases or decreases in the price of CVS common stock or Caremark common stock. The value of Caremark common stock in the merger will depend upon the market price of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock upon the completion of the merger. If the price of CVS common stock declines, Caremark stockholders will receive less value for their shares upon completion of the merger than the value calculated pursuant to the exchange ratio on the date the merger agreement was signed or on the date of the Caremark special meeting.

         The merger may not be completed until a significant period of time has passed after the CVS and Caremark special meetings, during which time the market value of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock will fluctuate. Therefore, at the time of their respective special meetings, CVS and Caremark stockholders will not know the exact market value of CVS/Caremark common stock that will be issued in connection with the merger. The market price of a share of CVS common stock at the time the merger is completed is likely to be different, and may be lower, than it was at the time the merger agreement was signed and at the time of the special meetings. The closing price of CVS common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2006 was $31.38 per share. From November 1, 2006 through the date of this document, the trading price of CVS common stock ranged from a high of $31.44 per share to a low of $27.09 per share. For CVS and Caremark historical market prices, see “Comparative Per Share Market Price and Dividend Information” beginning on page 23.

         Stock price changes may result from a variety of factors, including, but not limited to:

    • changes in the business, operations or prospects of CVS or Caremark;


    • catastrophic events, both natural and man-made;


    • government, litigation and/or regulatory developments or considerations;


    • general market and economic conditions;

    25






    • market assessments as to whether and when the merger will be consummated and market assessments of the condition, results or prospects of either company’s business; and


    • governmental actions or legislative developments affecting the retail pharmacy, pharmacy benefits management, or pharmaceutical services or healthcare industry generally.

         Stockholders of CVS and Caremark are urged to obtain market quotations for CVS and Caremark common stock when they consider whether to approve the proposals required to complete the merger at the respective special meetings.

      The combined company may be unable to successfully integrate CVS’ and Caremark’s operations or to realize the anticipated cost savings and other benefits of the merger. As a result, the value of CVS/Caremark common stock may be adversely affected.

         CVS and Caremark entered into the merger agreement because each company believes that the merger will be beneficial to each of CVS, Caremark and their respective stockholders. Currently, each company operates as an independent public company. Achieving the anticipated benefits of the merger will depend in part upon whether the two companies integrate their businesses in an efficient and effective manner. The companies may not be able to accomplish this integration process smoothly or successfully. The necessity of coordinating geographically separated organizations, systems and facilities and addressing possible differences in business backgrounds, corporate cultures and management philosophies may increase the difficulties of integration. The companies operate numerous systems, including those involving management information, purchasing, accounting and finance, sales, billing, employee benefits, payroll and regulatory compliance. The integration of certain operations following the merger will require the dedication of significant management resources, which may temporarily distract management’s attention from the day-to-day business of the combined company. Employee uncertainty and lack of focus during the integration process may also disrupt the business of the combined company. Any inability of management to integrate successfully the operations of the two companies could have a material adverse effect on the business and results of operations of the combined company. The companies may not be able to achieve the anticipated operating and cost synergies or long-term strategic benefits of the merger. An inability to realize the full extent of, or any of, the anticipated benefits of the merger, as well as any delays encountered in the integration process, could have an adverse effect on the business and results of operations of the combined company, which may affect the value of the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock after the completion of the merger.

         The success of the combined company after the merger will depend in part upon the ability of CVS and Caremark to retain key employees of both companies. Competition for qualified personnel can be very intense. In addition, key employees may depart because of issues relating to the uncertainty or difficulty of integration or a desire not to remain with the combined company. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that CVS or Caremark will be able to retain key employees.

         Due to legal restrictions, Caremark and CVS have been able to conduct only limited planning regarding the integration of the two companies following the merger and have not yet determined the exact nature of how the businesses and operations of the two companies will be combined after the merger. The actual integration may result in additional and unforeseen expenses, and the anticipated benefits of the integration plan may not be realized.

     

    CVS/Caremark common stock may be affected by factors different from those affecting the price of Caremark common stock or CVS common stock.

         On completion of the merger, holders of Caremark common stock and CVS common stock will become holders of CVS/Caremark common stock. As the business of CVS and the business of Caremark are different, the results of operations as well as the price of CVS/Caremark common stock may be affected by factors different than those factors affecting CVS and Caremark as independent stand-alone entities. The combined company will face additional risks and uncertainties not otherwise facing each independent company in the merger. For a discussion of CVS’ and Caremark’s businesses and certain factors to consider in connection with their respective businesses, see “—Risks Related to CVS, Caremark and the Combined Company”, as well as the respective sections entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in each of CVS’ and

    26






    Caremark’s annual reports on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, the CVS quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the periods ended April 1, 2006, July 1, 2006 and September 30, 2006, the Caremark quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the periods ended March 31, 2006, June 30, 2006 and September 30, 2006 and other documents incorporated by reference into this document.

      The merger may not be accretive and may cause dilution to CVS/Caremark earnings per share, which may harm the market price of the CVS/Caremark common stock.

         The parties currently anticipate that the merger will be accretive to earnings per share during the first full calendar year after the merger. However, due to legal restrictions, Caremark and CVS have been able to conduct only limited planning regarding the integration of the two companies. Accordingly, this expectation is based on preliminary estimates which may materially change after the completion of the merger. The combined company could also encounter additional transaction and integration-related costs or other factors such as the failure to realize all of the benefits anticipated in the merger. All of these factors could cause dilution to CVS/Caremark’s earnings per share or decrease the expected accretive effect of the merger and cause a decrease in the price of CVS/Caremark common stock.

     

    Failure to complete the merger could negatively impact the stock prices and the future business and financial results of CVS and Caremark.

         If the merger is not completed, the ongoing businesses of CVS or Caremark may be adversely affected and CVS and Caremark will be subject to several risks, including the following:

    • being required, under certain circumstances under the merger agreement, to pay a termination fee of $675 million to the other party (see “The Merger Agreement—Termination Fees” beginning on page 101);


    • having to pay certain costs relating to the merger;


    • the attention of management of CVS and Caremark will have been diverted to the merger instead of on such company’s own operations and pursuit of other opportunities that could have been beneficial to such company; and


    • customer perception may be negatively impacted which could affect the ability of CVS and Caremark to compete for, or to win, new and renewal business in the marketplace.
     

    Charges to earnings resulting from the application of the purchase method of accounting may adversely affect the market value of CVS/Caremark common stock following the merger.

         In accordance with U.S. GAAP, CVS will be considered the acquiror of Caremark for accounting purposes. CVS will account for the merger using the purchase method of accounting, which will result in charges to CVS/Caremark’s earnings that could adversely affect the market value of CVS/Caremark common stock following the completion of the merger. Under the purchase method of accounting, CVS will allocate the total purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Caremark based on their fair values as of the date of the completion of the merger, and record any excess of the purchase price over those fair values as goodwill. For certain tangible and intangible assets, reevaluating their fair values as of the completion date of the merger will result in CVS/Caremark’s incurring additional depreciation and/or amortization expense that exceed the combined amounts recorded by CVS and Caremark prior to the merger. This increased expense will be recorded by CVS/Caremark over the useful lives of the underlying assets. In addition, to the extent the value of goodwill or intangible assets were to become impaired, CVS/Caremark may be required to incur charges relating to the impairment of those assets. See “The Merger—Accounting Treatment” beginning on page 81.

    27






      CVS and Caremark must obtain governmental and regulatory consents to complete the merger, which, if delayed, not granted or granted with unacceptable conditions, may jeopardize or delay the completion of the merger, result in additional expenditures of money and resources and/or reduce the anticipated benefits of the merger.

         Completion of the merger is conditioned on the receipt of all material governmental authorizations, consents, orders and approvals, including the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting periods under the HSR Act. CVS and Caremark intend to pursue all required approvals in accordance with the merger agreement. If the companies do not receive these approvals, or do not receive them on terms that satisfy the conditions set forth in the merger agreement, then neither company will be obligated to complete the merger.

         The governmental agencies from which the companies will seek these approvals have broad discretion in administering the governing regulations. As a condition to approval of the merger, agencies may impose requirements, limitations or costs or require divestitures or place restrictions on the conduct of the combined company’s business. These requirements, limitations, costs, divestitures or restrictions could jeopardize or delay the completion of the merger or may reduce the anticipated benefits of the merger. Further, no assurance can be given that the required consents and approvals will be obtained or that the required conditions to closing will be satisfied, and, if all required consents and approvals are obtained and the conditions to the completion of the merger are satisfied, no assurance can be given as to the terms, conditions and timing of the approvals. If CVS and Caremark agree to any material requirements, limitations, costs, divestitures or restrictions in order to obtain any approvals required to complete the merger, these requirements, limitations, additional costs or restrictions could adversely affect the two companies’ ability to integrate their operations or reduce the anticipated benefits of the merger. This could result in a failure to complete the merger or have a material adverse effect on the business and results of operations of the combined company. See “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99 for a discussion of the conditions to the completion of the merger and “Regulatory and Other Approvals Required for the Merger” beginning on page 87 for a description of the regulatory approvals necessary in connection with the merger.

     

    The combined company will incur significant transaction and merger-related costs in connection with the merger.

         CVS and Caremark expect to incur a number of non-recurring costs associated with combining the operations of the two companies. The substantial majority of non-recurring expenses resulting from the merger will be comprised of transaction costs related to the merger, facilities and systems consolidation costs and employment–related costs. CVS and Caremark will also incur transaction fees and costs related to formulating integration plans. Additional unanticipated costs may be incurred in the integration of the two companies’ businesses. Due to legal restrictions, Caremark and CVS have been able to conduct only limited planning regarding the integration of the two companies and have not yet been able to formulate detailed integration plans to deliver anticipated synergies. Although CVS and Caremark expect that the elimination of duplicative costs, as well as the realization of other efficiencies related to the integration of the businesses should allow them to offset incremental transaction and merger-related costs over time, this net benefit may not be achieved in the near term, or at all.

     

    Whether or not the merger is completed, the announcement and pendency of the merger could impact or cause disruptions in Caremark’s and CVS’ businesses, which could have an adverse effect on their results of operations and financial condition.

         Specifically:

    • current and prospective clients of PharmaCare (CVS’ PBM) and Caremark may experience uncertainty associated with the merger, including with respect to current or future business relationships with PharmaCare, Caremark or the combined company and may attempt to negotiate changes in existing business relationships or consider entering into business relationships with parties other than PharmaCare, Caremark or the combined company, either before or after completion of the merger;

    28






    • Caremark and CVS employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles with the combined company, which might adversely affect Caremark’s and CVS’ ability to retain and hire key managers and other employees;


    • if the merger is completed, the accelerated vesting of most stock options and availability of certain other “change in control” benefits to Caremark’s officers and employees on completion of the merger could result in increased difficulty or cost in retaining Caremark officers and employees;


    • the attention of management of each of Caremark and CVS may be directed toward the completion of the merger and transaction-related considerations and may be diverted from the day-to-day business operations of their respective companies; and


    • pharmaceutical manufacturers, retail pharmacies, pharmacy benefit management companies or other vendors or suppliers may seek to modify or terminate their business relationships with CVS or Caremark.

         Approximately one third of a PBM’s customer base typically is subject to renewal each year, and therefore Caremark and CVS may face additional challenges in competing for new business and retaining or renewing business. Caremark’s largest client, the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan, is currently subject to renewal for services beginning January 1, 2008. There can be no assurance that Caremark will be able to secure renewal of this business; however, such renewal is not a condition to the completion of the merger. These disruptions could be exacerbated by a delay in the completion of the merger or termination of the merger agreement and could have an adverse effect on the businesses, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of Caremark and CVS if the merger is not completed or of the combined company if the merger is completed.

      Certain directors and executive officers of CVS and Caremark have interests that are different from, or in addition to, interests of CVS and Caremark stockholders generally.

         Some of the directors of Caremark who recommend that Caremark stockholders vote in favor of adopting the merger agreement, and the executive officers of Caremark who provided information to the Caremark board of directors relating to the merger, have employment, indemnification and severance benefit arrangements, rights to acceleration of stock options and other benefits on a change in control of Caremark and rights to ongoing indemnification and insurance that provide them with interests in the merger that may differ from Caremark stockholders generally. The receipt of compensation or other benefits, including the rights to acceleration of stock options referred to above by Caremark’s executive officers in connection with the merger, may make it more difficult for the combined company to retain their services after the merger, or require the combined company to expend additional sums to continue to retain their services. Caremark stockholders should be aware of these interests when considering the Caremark board of directors’ recommendation that they vote in favor of adopting the merger agreement and approving the merger. See “Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 72.

         In addition, under the bylaws of CVS to be amended in connection with the merger, a vote of three-quarters of the combined company’s board of directors will be required to remove Mr. Thomas M. Ryan as its chief executive officer before January 2010. CVS stockholders should be aware of this interest when considering the CVS board of directors’ recommendation that they vote in favor of the proposals relating to the merger. See “Interests of CVS Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 61.

    Risks Related to CVS, Caremark and the Combined Company

      The industries in which CVS and Caremark operate are extremely competitive and competition could adversely affect the combined company’s business and results of operations following the merger.

         CVS currently operates in a highly competitive environment. CVS competes, and after the completion of the merger, the combined company will compete, with other drugstore chains, supermarkets, discount retailers, membership clubs and Internet companies. The combined company will continue to face competition from other mail order pharmacies and PBMs.

    29






         The pharmacy benefits management industry in which Caremark and, to a lesser extent, CVS through PharmaCare, operate is extremely competitive. Competitors in the pharmacy benefits management industry include large national pharmacy benefit management companies, such as Medco Health Solutions, Inc. and Express Scripts, Inc., as well as many local or regional PBMs. In addition, there are several large health insurers and managed care plans (e.g., Wellpoint, Aetna, CIGNA, United Healthcare) and retail pharmacies (e.g., Walgreens, Longs and Rite-Aid) which have their own PBM capabilities as well as several other national and regional companies that provide some or all of the same services. Some of these competitors may offer services and pricing terms that the combined company, even if the anticipated benefits of the merger are realized in full, may not be able to offer. In addition, competition may also come from other sources in the future. As a result, competition could have an adverse effect on its business and results of operations.

       Changes in industry pricing benchmarks could adversely affect the financial performance of the combined company

         Contracts in the prescription drug industry, including Caremark’s and PharmaCare’s contracts with retail pharmacy networks as well as their contracts with clients for PBM and Specialty services, generally use certain published benchmarks to establish pricing for prescription drugs. These benchmarks include average wholesale price, which is referred to as AWP, average selling price, which is referred to as ASP, and wholesale acquisition cost, which is referred to as WAC. Most of Caremark’s and PharmaCare’s PBM client contracts utilize the AWP standard. Further, most of the contracts governing the participation of CVS stores in retail pharmacy networks also utilize the AWP standard.

         Recent events have raised uncertainties as to whether payors, pharmacy providers, PBMs and others in the prescription drug industry will continue to utilize AWP as it has previously been calculated or whether other pricing benchmarks will be adopted for establishing prices within the industry.

         Specifically, in the recently announced proposed settlement in the case of New England Carpenters Health Benefits Fund, et al. v. First DataBank, et al., a civil class action case brought against First DataBank, which is referred to as FDB, one of several companies that report data on prescription drug prices, and McKesson Corporation, FDB has agreed to reduce the reported AWP of certain drugs by four percent at a future time as contemplated by the settlement. At this time, the proposed settlement has not received final court approval. The court could approve the proposed settlement in part, in its entirety, or not at all. CVS and Caremark cannot predict the outcome of this case, or, if the settlement is approved, the precise timing of any of the proposed AWP changes or the effect of such changes, if any, on the financial performance of the combined company.

         Over 90% of Caremark’s client relationships and most of its relationships with other affected parties contain terms that Caremark believes will enable it to mitigate any adverse effect of this proposed reduction in FDB’s reported AWP. Two other publicly traded large national PBMs have also stated that their contractual relationships contain similar terms. However, because in some cases payors may seek to negotiate with PBMs in an effort to reduce prescription drug costs as a result of a reduction in FDB’s reported AWP, the ultimate effect of this development on the business of the combined company cannot be precisely predicted.

         Whatever the outcome of the FDB case, it is possible that payors, pharmacy providers and PBMs will begin to evaluate other pricing benchmarks as the basis for contracting for prescription drugs and pharmacy benefit management services in the future.

       Existing and new government legislative and regulatory action could adversely affect the combined company’s business and financial results.

         CVS and Caremark are subject to changes in laws and regulations, including changes in accounting standards and taxation requirements and interpretations. As a participant in the healthcare and PBM industries, Caremark’s and CVS’ operations are subject to complex and evolving federal and state laws and regulations and enforcement by federal and state governmental agencies. These laws and regulations are described in detail at Part I, Item 1, “Business—Government Regulation” in Caremark’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December

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    31, 2005 and Part I, Item 1A, “Business—Regulatory Risks” in CVS’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2005.

         Caremark’s and CVS’ pharmacy benefit services businesses and CVS’ retail drugstore business are subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations. Changes in these regulations may require extensive system and operating changes that may be difficult to implement. Untimely compliance or noncompliance with applicable regulations could result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties that could adversely affect the continued operation of Caremark’s or CVS’ business, including, but not limited to: suspension of payments from government programs; loss of required government certification; approvals; loss of authorizations to participate in or exclusion from government reimbursement programs, such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs; loss of licensure; or significant fines or monetary penalties, and could adversely affect the continued operation of Caremark’s or CVS’ business. The regulations to which Caremark and CVS are subject include, but are not limited to: federal, state and local registration and regulation of pharmacies, pharmacy benefit managers and healthcare insurance companies; applicable Medicare and Medicaid regulations; the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA; accounting standards; tax laws and regulations; laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and health and safety matters, including those governing exposure to, and the management and disposal of, hazardous substances; regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as well as state regulatory authorities, governing the sale, advertisement and promotion of products that Caremark or CVS sells; anti-kickback laws; false claims laws; and federal and state laws governing the practice of the profession of pharmacy. Furthermore, the frequency and rate of FDA approval of new brand name and generic prescription drugs or of additional existing prescription drugs for over-the-counter sales could have an impact on CVS’ or Caremark’s business and results of operations.

         The combined company’s business and results of operations could be affected by one or more of the following:

    • federal and state laws and regulations governing the purchase, distribution, management, dispensing and reimbursement of prescription drugs and related services, whether at retail or mail, and applicable licensing requirements;


    • the effect of the expiration of patents covering brand name drugs and the introduction of generic products;


    • approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which is referred to as the FDA, of over-the-counter status for brand name drugs;


    • FDA regulation affecting the retail or PBM industry;


    • rules and regulations issued pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, which is referred to as HIPAA; and other federal and state laws affecting the use, disclosure and transmission of health information, such as state security breach laws and state laws limiting the use and disclosure of prescriber information;


    • administration of the Medicare Drug Benefit, including legislative changes and/or Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rulemaking and interpretation;


    • government regulation of the development, administration, review and updating of formularies and drug lists;


    • state laws and regulations establishing or changing prompt payment requirements for payments to retail pharmacies;


    • impact of network access (any willing provider) legislation on ability to manage pharmacy networks;


    • managed care reform and plan design legislation;

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    • insurance licensing and other insurance regulatory requirements applicable to offering a prescription drug plan in connection with the Medicare Drug Benefit; and


    • direct regulation of pharmacies or PBMs by regulatory and quasi-regulatory bodies.
     

    Uncertainty regarding the impact of Medicare Part D may adversely impact the combined company’s business and financial results.

         The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, or the MMA, created a new, voluntary prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries entitled to Medicare benefits under Part A or enrolled in Medicare Part B. The Medicare Drug Benefit became effective on January 1, 2006. Since its inception the program has resulted in increased utilization and decreased pharmacy gross margin rates as higher margin business (such as cash and state Medicaid customers) migrated to the new Medicare Part D coverage. The full impact on the combined company’s sales and gross margin rates cannot yet be determined and could have different effects on different segments of the combined company’s business.

         Caremark and PharmaCare participate in the administration of the Medicare Drug Benefit through the provision of PBM services to their health plan clients and other clients that have qualified as a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Caremark also participates (1) through the offering of Medicare Part D pharmacy benefits by its subsidiary, SilverScript Insurance Company, which has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, as a prescription drug plan sponsor under Medicare Part D in all regions of the country, and (2) by assisting employer, union and other health plan clients that qualify for the retiree drug subsidy available under Medicare Part D by collecting and submitting eligibility and/or drug cost data to CMS for them in order to obtain the subsidy. In addition, PharmaCare, through a joint venture with Universal American Insurance Corp, also participates in the offering of Medicare Part D pharmacy benefits by affiliated entities of Universal American. Caremark’s, PharmaCare’s or after the consummation of the merger, the combined company’s, clients could decide to discontinue providing prescription drug benefits to their Medicare-eligible members. If this occurs, the adverse effects of the Medicare Drug Benefit may outweigh any opportunities for new business generated by the new benefit. Caremark and CVS are not yet able to assess the impact that Medicare Part D will have on clients’ decisions to continue to offer a prescription drug benefit to their Medicare-eligible members. In addition, if the cost and complexity of the Medicare Drug Benefit exceed management’s expectations or prevent effective program implementation or administration; if the government alters or reduces funding of Medicare programs because of the higher-than-anticipated cost to taxpayers of the MMA or for other reasons; if the combined company fails to design and maintain programs that are attractive to Medicare participants; or if the combined company is not successful in retaining enrollees, or winning contract renewals or new contracts under the MMA’s competitive bidding process, Caremark’s and CVS’ Medicare business and the ability to expand the combined company’s Medicare operations could be materially and adversely affected, and the combined company’s business and results of operations may be adversely affected. Finally, the MMA mandated risk corridors (in which the federal government shares in the drug cost risk borne by Part D plans) are scheduled to change in 2008. Both the risk corridor thresholds and the level of risk-sharing will change with the result that Medicare Drug Benefit sponsors will assume an increased level of drug cost risk starting in 2008. Therefore, to the extent that SilverScript Insurance Company’s actual drug costs are higher or lower than those estimated by it in its bid in 2008 onwards, the federal government will share a smaller portion of the losses or gains respectively than it otherwise would have prior to 2008.

     

    Efforts to reduce reimbursement levels and alter health care financing practices could adversely affect the combined company’s businesses.

         The continued efforts of health maintenance organizations, managed care organizations, other pharmacy benefit management companies, government entities, and other third party payors to reduce prescription drug costs and pharmacy reimbursement rates may impact the profitability of the combined company. During the past several years, the U.S. healthcare industry has been subject to an increase in governmental regulation at both the federal and state levels. Efforts to control healthcare costs, including prescription drug costs, are underway at the federal and state government levels. Changing political, economic and regulatory influences may affect health care financing and reimbursement practices. If the current health care financing and reimbursement system changes significantly, the combined company’s business could be materially adversely affected.

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         On February 8, 2006, the President signed into law the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, which is referred to as the DRA. This Act seeks to reduce federal spending by $3.6 billion over a five-year period by altering the Medicaid reimbursement formula for multi-source (i.e., generic) drugs. According to the Congressional Budget Office, retail pharmacies are expected to negotiate with individual states for higher dispensing fees to mitigate the adverse effect of these changes. These changes are expected to take effect during the first quarter of 2007 and to result in reduced Medicaid reimbursement rates for retail pharmacies. The extent of these reductions and the impact on the combined company cannot be determined at this time.

         In addition, Congress periodically considers proposals to reform the U.S. health care system. These proposals may increase government involvement in health care and regulation of PBM or pharmacy services, or otherwise change the way the combined company or its clients do business. Health plan sponsors may react to these proposals and the uncertainty surrounding them by reducing or delaying purchases of cost control mechanisms and related services that the combined company would provide. CVS and Caremark cannot predict what effect, if any, these proposals may have on the combined company’s business. Other legislative or market-driven changes in the health care system that CVS and Caremark cannot anticipate could also materially adversely affect the combined company’s consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position and/or consolidated cash flow from operations.

       CVS and Caremark face litigation risks and are the subject of various legal proceedings.

         CVS and Caremark are subject to litigation risks. The material legal proceedings affecting CVS are described in detail in Part II, Item 1, “Legal Proceedings” of CVS’ quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2006 and Part I, Item 3, “Legal Proceedings” of CVS’ annual report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2005. The material legal proceedings affecting Caremark are described in detail in Part II, Item 1, “Legal Proceedings”, of Caremark’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2006 and Part I, Item 3, “Legal Proceedings” of Caremark’s annual report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2005. If any of these or new proceedings are determined adversely for Caremark, CVS or the combined company, it could have a material adverse effect on the combined company’s business and results of operations.

         In November 2006, the Iron Workers of Western Pennsylvania Pension Plan filed a purported class action lawsuit purportedly on behalf of Caremark stockholders in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee against Caremark and its directors. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the directors breached their fiduciary duties by entering into the proposed merger transaction with CVS. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, preliminary and permanent injunctive relief to prevent the proposed merger transaction, to direct the defendants to obtain a transaction which is in the best interests of Caremark stockholders, and to impose a constructive trust upon any benefits improperly received by the defendants. The Sheetmetal Workers Local 28 Pension Fund also filed a purported class action lawsuit in the Chancery Court of Davidson County, Tennessee against Caremark and its directors. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the directors breached their fiduciary duties in approving the proposed merger transaction. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, a declaration that the directors breached their fiduciary duties and injunctive relief preventing the proposed merger transaction.

         In addition to these recently filed lawsuits, a purported second amended shareholder derivative and class action complaint purportedly on behalf of Caremark stockholders was filed in November 2006 by the plaintiffs in the pending In Re: Caremark Rx, Inc. Stock Option Litigation in the Circuit Court for Davidson County, Tennessee. The purported second amended complaint includes purported class action allegations challenging the proposed merger transaction and adds CVS as a defendant. Among other things, the purported second amended complaint alleges that the Caremark directors approved the merger agreement with CVS to avoid personal liability in the pending derivative litigation relating to the alleged backdating of stock options. The purported second amended complaint also alleges that CVS aided and abetted the alleged wrongdoing by the directors of Caremark. The plaintiffs seek, among other things, a declaration that the directors breached their fiduciary duties, injunctive relief preventing the defendants from completing the proposed merger transaction, imposition of a constructive trust upon any illegal profits received by the defendants, and punitive damages.

         In December 2006, another alleged Caremark stockholder filed a purported class action lawsuit purportedly on behalf of Caremark stockholders relating to the proposed merger between Caremark and CVS in the United States

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    District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. The suit is brought against Caremark, its directors, CVS, and CVS’ chief executive officer. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the Caremark directors breached their fiduciary duties by entering into the proposed merger transaction with CVS and that the CVS defendants aided and abetted such breaches of duty. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, preliminary and permanent injunctive relief to prevent the proposed merger transaction, to direct the defendants to obtain a transaction which is in the best interests of Caremark shareholders, and to impose a constructive trust upon any benefits improperly received by the defendants.

         Caremark believes the claims made in these stockholder lawsuits lack merit and intends to defend them vigorously. CVS believes the allegations pertaining to CVS in the stockholder lawsuits are void of merit and intends to defend them vigorously.

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    CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING
    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

         This document contains certain forward-looking information about CVS, Caremark and the combined company that is intended to be covered by the safe harbor for “forward-looking statements” provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be made directly in this document or may be incorporated into this document by reference to other documents and may include statements for the period following the completion of the merger. Representatives of CVS and Caremark may also make forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Words such as “expect,” “believe,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “intend,” “should,” “can,” “likely,” “could” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include, but are not limited to statements about the expected benefits of the merger, information about the combined company, including expected synergies and projected revenues and cash flows, combined operating and financial data, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s objectives, plans and expectations, the likelihood of satisfaction of certain conditions to the completion of the merger and whether and when the merger will be consummated. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the risks described in this document under the section “Risk Factors”, and those that are incorporated by reference into this document that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements.

         Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of management of CVS and Caremark and are subject to a number of factors that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those projected or anticipated. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. The following factors, among other things, could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements in this document or those made by representatives of CVS and Caremark:

      1.      risks and uncertainties discussed and identified in public filings with the SEC made by CVS and Caremark;
     
      2.      CVS and Caremark may be unable to obtain stockholder or regulatory approvals in a timely manner, if at all;
     
      3.      the businesses of CVS and Caremark may not be integrated successfully or as quickly as expected;
     
      4.      the revenues and synergies and other benefits from the merger may not be realized or may take longer to realize than expected;
     
      5.      the merger may involve unexpected costs;
     
      6.      limitations that may be imposed on the combined company’s operations that may be necessary to obtain governmental approvals required for the merger;
     
      7.      the businesses and results of operations of CVS and Caremark may suffer as a result of uncertainty surrounding the merger;
     
      8.      the strength of the economy in general or in the markets served by CVS and Caremark, including changes in consumer purchasing power and spending patterns;
     
      9.      risks relating to compliance with, or changes in, government regulation and legislation, including, but not limited to, pharmacy licensing requirements and healthcare reform legislation;
     
      10.      risks relating to identification of, and competition for, growth and expansion opportunities;
     
      11.      risks related to CVS’ and Caremark’s ability to attract new customers and retain existing customers;
     
      12.      risks relating to exposure to liabilities in excess of insurance;
     

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      13.      risks relating to adverse developments in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry generally, including, but not limited to, developments in any investigation related to the pharmaceutical industry that may be conducted by governmental authorities;
     
      14.      risks relating to adverse resolution of existing or future lawsuits or investigations or regulatory developments;
     
      15.      other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the combined company; and
     
      16.      those factors listed in “Risk Factors” beginning on page 25.

         In light of these risks, uncertainties, assumptions and factors, the forward-looking events discussed in this document or made by representatives of CVS or Caremark may not occur. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof or, in the case of statements incorporated by reference, on the date of the document incorporated by reference, or, in the case of statements made by representatives of CVS or Caremark, on the date those statements are made. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the merger or the combined company or other matters addressed in this document and attributable to CVS or Caremark or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, neither CVS nor Caremark undertakes any obligation to update or publish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or the date of the forward-looking statements or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

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    THE MERGER

         The following discussion contains important information relating to the merger. You are urged to read this discussion together with the merger agreement and related documents attached as Annexes to this document before voting on the merger or the amendment to CVS’ charter and issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock.

    Structure of the Merger

         The merger agreement provides for the merger of Twain MergerSub Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS that was formed for the purpose of the merger, with and into Caremark, with Caremark surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS. Following the merger, CVS Corporation will be renamed “CVS/Caremark Corporation”.

    Merger Consideration

         At the effective time of the merger, each issued and outstanding share of Caremark common stock will be converted into the right to receive 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. Caremark stockholders will receive cash in lieu of any fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that would have otherwise been received in the merger. See “The Merger Agreement—Fractional Shares” beginning on page 92. CVS and Caremark expect that, upon completion of the merger, the Caremark stockholders immediately prior to the merger will own approximately 45.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis, and the CVS stockholders immediately prior to the merger will own approximately 54.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis. See “The Merger Agreement—Merger Consideration” beginning on page 91.

    Background of the Merger

         On October 7, 2005, Thomas M. Ryan, chairman, president and chief executive officer of CVS, and E. Mac Crawford, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Caremark, spoke by telephone to arrange a subsequent meeting.

         On October 20, 2005, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford met in Providence, Rhode Island. During this initial meeting, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford discussed the potential strategic fit of the two organizations and the complementary nature of the services provided by each company. Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford agreed to evaluate the possible synergies that might be derived from a potential strategic transaction between the parties.

         On November 2, 2005, the CVS board of directors met and, at the meeting, Mr. Ryan apprised the CVS board of directors of his meeting with Mr. Crawford and the possibility of exploring a strategic transaction with Caremark.

         On November 9, 2005, the Caremark board of directors met and discussed possible strategic opportunities for Caremark.

         On November 22, 2005, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford met at the Westin Hotel in Providence, Rhode Island to discuss potential growth opportunities for a combined company.

         On December 5, 2005, representatives of Evercore, as a financial advisor to CVS, and UBS, as a financial advisor to Caremark, also met to discuss potential financial terms of a potential business combination between CVS and Caremark.

         On January 4, 2006, the CVS board of directors met and received an update from Mr. Ryan on the status of discussions with Mr. Crawford regarding a possible strategic transaction with Caremark. At this meeting, Mr. Ryan discussed the strategic rationale for such a combination as well as certain governance and organizational issues.

         On January 30, 2006, a meeting between representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark took place at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. During this meeting, the parties discussed a potential business

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    combination between CVS and Caremark and agreed to use a third party consultant to calculate possible synergies that might result from such a transaction. The parties also entered into a non-disclosure agreement.

         On February 2, 2006, CVS and Caremark jointly retained through legal counsel an outside consultant to assist with the calculation of potential synergies, and on February 6, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark participated in a conference call with representatives from this firm to commence this process. During February and March 2006, CVS and Caremark provided data to the synergy consultant.

         On March 1, 2006, the CVS board of directors met and received an update from Mr. Ryan on the status of discussions with Caremark.

         On March 7, 2006, the synergy consultant participated in a conference call with representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark to discuss their preliminary findings with respect to potential synergies that may arise from a combination.

         On March 14, 2006, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford met at the St. Regis Hotel in New York, New York to discuss the possible financial and strategic implications of a business combination between the two parties. Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford also discussed potential organizational and governance matters, including board composition of the combined company as well as the effect of a potential business combination on employees, clients, payors and customers of both CVS and Caremark.

         In late March 2006, Mr. Ryan called Mr. Crawford, and the parties agreed to terminate any further preliminary discussions of a potential business combination between CVS and Caremark until CVS had completed the then pending acquisition of the Osco/Sav-on stand-alone drugstores.

         On April 5, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically and received an update from Mr. Crawford on the status of discussions with CVS and other strategic opportunities.

         On May 11, 2006, the CVS board of directors met and received a presentation by certain members of CVS management on the PBM industry landscape and the strategic rationale and benefits of a business combination with a pharmacy benefit management company.

         On May 11, 2006, the Caremark board of directors also met and received a presentation from Caremark’s senior management on potential strategic opportunities for Caremark.

         On June 2, 2006, CVS completed the Osco/Sav-on stand-alone drugstore acquisition from Albertson’s.

         On August 16, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met and received a presentation from Caremark’s senior management on potential strategic opportunities for Caremark, including a discussion of a potential transaction with a retail pharmacy chain.

         On August 22 and 23, 2006, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford met in North Carolina, and the parties agreed to move forward with their discussions and evaluation of a business combination between CVS and Caremark. At this meeting, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford further discussed the strategic rationale for the transaction as well as corporate governance and organizational matters.

         On August 30, 2006, Mr. Ryan met with a chief executive officer of a pharmacy benefits management company to discuss industry matters and possible ways for CVS and this company to work together.

         On September 13, 2006, Mr. Ryan met with the chief executive officer of another pharmacy benefits management company to discuss industry matters and a potential business relationship between CVS and this company.

         On September 20, 2006, the CVS board of directors met and received a presentation from members of management on strategic considerations relating to the PBM business generally and the strategic rationale and benefits of a business combination with Caremark. In addition, Evercore provided a preliminary financial overview

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    of a potential combination of CVS and Caremark for the CVS board of directors at this meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting, the CVS board authorized management to begin due diligence on Caremark and to engage in negotiations on a potential combination.

         On September 25, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically and received an update from Mr. Crawford on the status of discussions with CVS. The Caremark board of directors discussed the potential business combination with CVS, other strategic growth opportunities and the industry generally.

         On September 26, 2006, Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford met at the Hyatt Hotel in Dulles, Virginia to discuss further the strategic rationale for, and benefits expected to be derived from, a business combination between the parties. Mr. Ryan and Mr. Crawford also discussed possible governance structures for the combined company and other management issues.

         On October 3, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically and reviewed with UBS and JPMorgan, Caremark’s financial advisors, financial aspects of a possible business combination of CVS and Caremark. In addition, the Caremark board of directors discussed potential structures of a transaction with CVS, the potential business combination with CVS in the context of the industry and the potential benefits of such a transaction for Caremark stockholders. The Caremark board authorized Mr. Crawford and his management team to proceed with a due diligence review of CVS and to continue to explore a possible business combination with CVS.

         On October 5, 2006, the parties’ financial advisors met to discuss the exchange ratio for the potential transaction and the due diligence and transaction process to be followed. A subsequent meeting among representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and their respective legal and financial advisors also took place at the offices of CVS’ legal counsel, Davis Polk & Wardwell, in New York, New York. The parties discussed the proposed due diligence process to be followed, regulatory matters raised by a business combination and the parties respective approaches with respect to these issues, the synergies analysis being completed by the outside consulting firm, timing for negotiation and completion of a definitive agreement and process for moving forward with the parties’ consideration and negotiation of a possible business combination between CVS and Caremark.

         On October 6, 2006, CVS and Caremark executed a revised non-disclosure agreement. In addition, on October 6, 2006, each party commenced a due diligence review of the other’s operations. Members of CVS senior management and members of Caremark senior management and their internal and external legal, accounting and financial advisors conducted certain due diligence reviews from an operational, financial, accounting, tax and legal perspective, including discussions with the other party’s management. The bulk of the due diligence continued through October 20, with additional follow-up due diligence taking place between October 20 and October 31, 2006.

         On October 9, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their regulatory legal counsel, Mintz Levin Cohn Ferris Glovsky and Popeo, which is referred to as Mintz Levin, and Jones Day, respectively, met to discuss a joint communications strategy in connection with the proposed business combination.

         On October 9, 2006, CVS’ legal counsel, Davis Polk & Wardwell, distributed an initial draft merger agreement to Caremark and its advisors. During the month of October, negotiations on the merger agreement continued.

         On October 9, 2006, Mr. Crawford met with the chief executive officer of a pharmacy benefits management company to discuss, among other things, the possibility of a business combination. The parties subsequently entered into a confidentiality agreement with each other dated October 23, 2006 and on October 26, 2006 representatives of the parties held a telephonic conference to further discuss a possible business combination and regulatory approvals that would be required to proceed.

         On October 10, 2006, regulatory legal counsel to CVS and regulatory counsel to Caremark met with the outside consulting firm to discuss the synergy analysis. In addition, on October 10, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their respective legal counsel arranged a conference call to further discuss the overall due diligence process.

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         On October 12, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their respective legal counsel and financial advisors met at the New York City offices of King & Spalding, Caremark’s counsel, to discuss current and pending litigation, regulatory and investigation matters facing the companies.

         On October 18, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their respective legal counsel and financial advisors met at the Hyatt Hotel in Dulles, Virginia for presentations by management of each party about their respective businesses.

         On October 20, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically during which Caremark’s senior management, legal counsel and financial advisors reviewed with the Caremark board of directors the status of discussions with CVS regarding the possible transaction. At the meeting, Caremark’s legal counsel reviewed with the Caremark board of directors the draft merger agreement and the Caremark board of directors discussed with Caremark’s senior management, legal counsel and financial advisors the issues raised by the draft agreement, matters identified to date by the due diligence review, corporate governance matters and risks associated with the potential transaction and transaction timing. The Caremark board of directors also discussed synergies expected to be derived from a business combination between CVS and Caremark, the potential transaction in the context of the industry and possible reactions of the market.

         On October 23, the CVS board of directors met to discuss various matters relating to a possible business combination of CVS and Caremark. Prior to this meeting, the board members had received a variety of background materials for their review. Mr. Ryan opened this meeting with a brief overview of the possible transaction and the status of the negotiations. Thereafter, CVS’ financial advisors, Evercore and Lehman Brothers, gave their respective financial overview of the transaction and other strategic alternatives. They also presented their respective views as to the strategic benefits and value-creating potential of the combination. Mr. David B. Rickard, CVS’ chief financial officer, thereafter, presented on the financial due diligence conducted on Caremark up to that time. Thereafter, a Davis Polk & Wardwell partner summarized for the CVS board of directors the terms of the merger agreement as they stood at that time and the material open issues that remained to be resolved in negotiations. He also reviewed the fiduciary duties of the CVS board of directors in its consideration of the transaction, and reported on legal due diligence conducted on Caremark. Finally, a Mintz Levin partner and CVS’ chief legal officer, Douglas A. Sgarro, presented to the CVS board of directors on certain litigation and regulatory matters reviewed during the course of legal due diligence on Caremark, as well as on the regulatory process applicable to the transaction. At the conclusion of these various management and advisor presentations, the CVS board of directors discussed the transaction in detail, including the risks (including any regulatory risks) and strategic benefits and synergies expected to be derived from the transaction and the directors’ financial analysis of the proposed transaction. At the end of this discussion, the CVS board of directors authorized CVS to continue to negotiate and explore the possible transaction.

         On October 24, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their respective legal counsel and financial advisors met at the Hyatt Hotel in Dulles, Virginia to discuss financial due diligence matters, preliminary results of the synergies analysis conducted by the outside consulting firm and a joint communications strategy in connection with the proposed transaction. The parties also further negotiated open issues in the merger agreement.

         On October 24 and October 30, 2006, the parties’ financial advisors discussed Caremark’s and CVS’ views on the exchange ratio for the potential transaction.

         On October 25, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically. At the meeting, Caremark’s legal counsel reviewed with the Caremark board of directors the status of the draft merger agreement. The Caremark board of directors also discussed with Caremark’s senior management, legal counsel and financial advisors the issues raised by the revised draft agreement, the due diligence process, risks associated with the potential transaction and a regulatory analysis of the transaction. The Caremark board of directors also discussed the potential management team of the combined company and synergies expected to be derived from a business combination between the parties. In addition, the Caremark board of directors received an update on the discussions of the parties’ financial advisors regarding the exchange ratio for the potential transaction.

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         On October 30, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met telephonically to evaluate the possible business combination with CVS. Prior to the meeting, the Caremark board of directors received various materials, including a draft of the merger agreement. At the meeting, Caremark’s legal counsel reviewed with the Caremark board of directors its legal duties and responsibilities in connection with the possible transaction and reviewed the material terms and conditions of the merger agreement and open points in the merger agreement that were still subject to negotiation. Caremark’s senior management reviewed with the Caremark board of directors the strategic benefits of the possible transaction, the results of the due diligence review of CVS and the risks associated with the possible transaction. Caremark’s financial advisors updated the board of directors on their discussions with CVS’ financial advisors regarding the exchange ratio. A thorough discussion took place among the members of the Caremark board of directors concerning the possible transaction, including a discussion of the risks of the transaction, the expected strategic benefits of the transaction, possible regulatory considerations in connection with the transaction, synergies expected to be derived from the business combination, the interests of directors and officers in the merger and financial aspects of the proposed transaction. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Caremark board of directors authorized management to continue negotiations with CVS to seek to resolve the remaining outstanding issues and to continue due diligence with respect to the potential transaction.

         On October 31, 2006, representatives of CVS and representatives of Caremark and each of their respective legal counsel and financial advisors participated in a conference call to resolve the remaining open points in the merger agreement. Between approximately noon on October 31, 2006 and 7:30 a.m., Eastern Time, on November 1, 2006, senior management of CVS and senior management of Caremark and their respective legal and financial advisors finalized the merger agreement and other proposed definitive documentation.

         At approximately 8:30 a.m., Eastern Time, on November 1, 2006, the Caremark board of directors met at JPMorgan’s offices in New York, New York to consider and act upon the proposed business combination between CVS and Caremark. Prior to this meeting, the Caremark board of directors received various materials, including a substantially final draft of the merger agreement. During this meeting, Caremark’s legal counsel reviewed with the Caremark board of directors the legal duties and responsibilities of the Caremark board of directors in connection with the proposed transaction and provided an update on the material terms and provisions of the merger agreement and changes to the merger agreement that had been negotiated since the last meeting of the Caremark board of directors. Members of Caremark’s senior management updated the Caremark board of directors on the results of due diligence, the risks associated with the transaction and the strategic benefits of the transaction and related transaction matters. In addition, UBS and JPMorgan reviewed with the Caremark board of directors their joint financial analysis of the exchange ratio and each delivered to the Caremark board of directors an oral opinion, each of which was confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated November 1, 2006, to the effect that, as of that date and based on and subject to various assumptions, matters considered and limitations described in such opinion, the exchange ratio was fair, from a financial point of view, to holders of Caremark common stock. Following a thorough discussion of the proposed transaction, the Caremark board of directors unanimously voted to approve the merger and the merger agreement and authorized management of Caremark to take certain actions designed to accomplish the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. Following the approval of the merger and the merger agreement, Mr. Ryan was introduced to the Caremark board of directors.

         At approximately 9:00 a.m., Eastern Time, on November 1, 2006, the CVS board of directors met telephonically or in person in New York, New York at the offices of Davis Polk & Wardwell. Before the CVS board of directors convened, directors received a package of materials relating to their review of the proposed transaction. Mr. Ryan opened this meeting by summarizing the then current status of deal negotiations and developments since the board had last met. At the conclusion of Mr. Ryan’s summary, Evercore and Lehman Brothers each gave its own presentation as to the financial analyses performed by it relating to the merger. At the conclusion of each of their respective presentations, each of Evercore and Lehman Brothers rendered their respective opinions orally (each of which opinions was later followed up in writing) to the effect that, as of that date and based on and subject to the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations described in each such opinion, the exchange ratio was fair, from a financial point of view, to CVS. After these opinions were rendered, a Davis Polk & Wardwell partner summarized the principal deal terms for the members of the CVS board of directors focusing, in particular, on changes to those terms since the CVS board of directors October 23 meeting. Thereafter, senior CVS executives reviewed again for the members of the CVS board

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    of directors the strategic rationale for, and benefits expected to be derived from, the transaction. A discussion of the transaction followed this review. At the conclusion of this discussion, the CVS board of directors unanimously approved the merger and the merger agreement, resolved to recommend these and related matters to CVS’ stockholders for their approval and authorized CVS management to take certain actions to bring the transaction negotiations to a successful conclusion.

         Following the meetings of the CVS board of directors and the Caremark board of directors, CVS and Caremark executed the merger agreement and thereafter issued a joint press release on November 1, 2006 announcing the transaction.

          On December 18, 2006, Caremark received an unsolicited offer from Express Scripts, Inc., referred to as Express Scripts, outlining a proposed transaction. The Caremark board of directors is reviewing the terms of the proposal submitted by Express Scripts in a manner consistent with its obligations under the merger agreement with CVS and applicable Delaware law.

    Rationale for the Merger

         CVS and Caremark each have a long history of being managed with a goal of enhancing stockholder value. While CVS and Caremark both believe that they have strong growth prospects for the near- and long-term as stand-alone entities, both companies believe that a combination of their companies represents the next logical and timely step in the evolution of the pharmacy services industry. The merger is expected to yield significant benefits for employer and health plan customers through more effective cost-management solutions and innovative programs and for consumers through expanded choice, unparalleled access and more personalized services. It is also expected to drive substantial value for stockholders of both companies by achieving significant anticipated benefits to be derived from the merger and the creation of a compelling platform from which to accelerate growth.

         CVS and Caremark anticipate that the combined company will be positioned to deliver these benefits and enhance stockholder value as a result of the following:

    • Strategic Benefits;


    • Enhanced Customer Service/Improved Outcomes and Cost Controls;


    • Operating Synergies;


    • Financial Benefits; and


    • Compatible Cultures and Record of Successful Transactions.

         Strategic Benefits. There are a number of reasons that CVS and Caremark believe the merger represents the logical evolution of the pharmacy services industry, including the fact that it combines Caremark’s expertise in serving employers and health plans as a leading pharmacy benefit manager and mail order pharmacy with CVS’ expertise in serving consumers as the nation’s largest retail pharmacy chain based on store count.

         Caremark, one of the nation’s leading pharmaceutical services companies, provides comprehensive prescription benefit management services to over 2,000 health plans, including corporations, managed care organizations, insurance companies, unions and government entities. Caremark is also a sponsor of SilverScript prescription drug plans, one of the top ten prescription drug plans (based on enrolled members) offered to Medicare Part D beneficiaries. Caremark operates a national retail pharmacy network with over 60,000 participating pharmacies and owns and operates seven mail order pharmacies and nine call centers. Through its Accordant disease management offering, Caremark also provides disease management programs for 27 conditions. Twenty-one of these programs are accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

         CVS operates the nation’s largest retail pharmacy chain based on store count, with approximately 6,200 stores across 43 states and the District of Columbia as well as PharmaCare, a wholly owned pharmacy benefit management and specialty pharmacy subsidiary which is expected to generate approximately $3 billion in revenues during its 2006 fiscal year. PharmaCare operates four mail order facilities and more than 50 specialty retail pharmacies. Through a joint venture arrangement with Universal American Financial Corp., PharmaCare retains an equity interest in Prescription Pathways, one of the top ten Medicare Part D prescription drug plans in the country (based on members enrolled). CVS also provides healthcare services through its MinuteClinic subsidiary, which as of September 30, 2006 operates over 99 healthcare clinics, 82 of which are located in CVS stores. MinuteClinic was

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    the first and as of the date hereof remains the only retail-based clinic company to receive accreditation from JCAHO.

         Based on September 30, 2006 data, the combined company will be:

    • #1 in retail pharmacy sales;


    • #1 in PBM lives managed;


    • #1 in pharmacy claims processed;


    • #1 in specialty pharmacy sales;


    • #2 in mail order pharmacy sales; and


    • #1 in retail-based clinics.

         Consequently, the combined company will offer to employers, health plans and consumers fully integrated end to end pharmacy services, from pharmacy plan design analysis to claims processing to retail or mail order prescription fulfillment. The merger will also enable the combined company to offer employers and health plan customers and consumers new and innovative programs, greater choice, unparalleled access and more personalized services. In that regard, the combined company will employ more than 180,000 people, including more than approximately 21,000 pharmacists and nurse practitioners.

         In addition, the merger will combine PharmaCare’s specialty operations with Caremark’s specialty operations thereby creating a premier specialty pharmacy provider, with more than 70 specialty retail and mail pharmacies. Specialty pharmacy focuses on supporting individuals that require complex and expensive drug therapies to treat chronic or genetic-based conditions such as organ transplants, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, hepatitis C, hemophilia, infertility, multiple sclerosis and certain cancers. As a result of the merger, the combined company will put together CVS’ and Caremark’s complementary specialty pharmacy offerings to achieve a more comprehensive specialty pharmacy business in terms of diseases covered and will offer expanded distribution capability and patient access through its retail and mail services pharmacies. CVS and Caremark both believe that the combined company will afford employers, health care plans and consumers with significantly enhanced specialty pharmacy services and capabilities by combining the companies’ complementary specialty businesses, providing them with better alternatives and the combined company with greater opportunities to improve its business than would be available to either company individually.

         Enhanced Customer Service/Improved Outcomes and Cost Controls. CVS and Caremark believe the merger addresses the rapidly changing dynamics of today’s healthcare delivery system. Healthcare is becoming more consumer-centric as the U.S. healthcare system strains to manage growing costs and employers shift more responsibility for managing costs to employees. An aging population, increasing incidence of chronic disease and increasing utilization attributable to the Medicare prescription benefit is fueling demand for prescriptions and pharmacy services. Generic drugs are becoming more widely available and new drug therapies to treat unmet healthcare needs and reduce hospital stays are being introduced. Consumers require medication management programs and better information to help them navigate these trends. CVS and Caremark believe the merger will position the combined company to provide solutions that address these trends and result in an enhanced pharmacy services experience for consumers.

         The combined company will seek to drive value for pharmacy services customers through an enhanced ability to assist and provide actionable information to plan participants and more effectively manage pharmacy cost trends. CVS and Caremark expect the combined company to improve clinical outcomes by providing an integrated information network, improving formulary compliance and appropriate utilization of drug therapy. The combined company intends to utilize CVS’ retail presence and over approximately 21,000 pharmacists and nurse practitioners

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    and Caremark’s systems and clinical programs and services to accomplish this goal. CVS and Caremark believe this will result in better control over healthcare costs for employers and health plans. The combined company will also be better positioned to offer new and broader disease management and wellness services to help consumers manage and protect against potential health risks and mitigate future healthcare costs.

         Cost Savings. CVS and Caremark believe the combined company can be operated more efficiently than either company on its own. First, the combined company is expected to achieve approximately $400 million in pre-tax benefits from purchasing scale and operating synergies. Operating synergies refers to decreases in overhead expense, increases in productivity and efficiencies, decreases in prescription dispensing costs, and other benefits made possible by combining complementary operations.

    • Significant cost savings are expected to come from lower costs for purchased items (such as generic pharmaceuticals) that CVS and Caremark believe will be possible because of the combined company’s buying efficiencies.


    • A portion of cost savings is also expected to come from reduced selling and administrative expenses. These reduced expenses would include eliminating duplicative facilities and/or activities in the two companies, resulting in lower support costs such as occupancy expense, telephone, travel and computer costs. CVS and Caremark also anticipate that the combined company will be able to reduce fees for duplicate activities, such as auditing, SEC reporting and other public company costs.

    Information regarding the uncertainties associated with realizing these anticipated cost savings is described under the heading “Risk Factors—The combined company will incur transaction and merger-related costs and may be unable to successfully integrate CVS’ and Caremark’s operations or to realize the anticipated cost savings and other benefits of the merger. As a result, the value of CVS/Caremark common stock may be adversely affected.” beginning on page 26.

         Financial. Combined pro forma revenues for CVS and Caremark would have been approximately $72 billion based on the year ended December 31, 2005. Thus, CVS and Caremark believe the combined company will have the size and financial stability to capitalize on anticipated growth opportunities. The merger is expected to further strengthen the mix of revenue sources, providing improved financial flexibility and strong cash-flows.

         Compatible Cultures and Record of Successful Transactions. CVS and Caremark share a number of important long-term corporate values, including a commitment to enhancing stockholder value, an emphasis on efficiency, investment discipline and asset productivity, a focus on customer service and satisfaction, and a commitment to compliance, safety and health. Both companies also benefit from talented and dedicated employees with a track record of successfully integrating companies in various business combination transactions that CVS and Caremark each believe have enhanced stockholder value for each company. CVS and Caremark believe that the shared values and experience of our management teams will facilitate an integration of the two companies, and that this business combination will provide further opportunities to enhance stockholder value.

    CVS Reasons for the Merger

         In approving the transaction and making these recommendations, the CVS board of directors consulted with CVS’ management, as well as its outside legal counsel and CVS’ financial advisors, and it carefully considered the following factors:

    • all the reasons described above under “—Rationale for the Merger” beginning on page 42 including the strategic benefits, the near- and longer-term synergies and purchasing scale and growth opportunities expected to be available to the combined company;


    • information concerning the business, assets, capital structure, financial performance and condition and prospects of CVS and Caremark, focusing in particular on the quality of Caremark’s assets, the compatibility of the two companies’ operations and opportunities for revenue growth;

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    • current and historical prices and trading information with respect to each of Caremark’s and CVS’ common stock, which assisted the CVS board of directors in its conclusion that the merger was fairly priced;


    • the possibility, as alternatives to the merger, of pursuing an acquisition of or a business combination or joint venture with an entity other than Caremark or a joint venture with Caremark, and the CVS board of directors’ conclusion that a merger with Caremark is more feasible, and is expected to yield greater benefits, than the likely alternatives. The CVS board of directors reached this conclusion for reasons including Caremark’s interest in pursuing a transaction with CVS, CVS’ view that the transaction could be acceptably completed from a timing and regulatory standpoint, and CVS management’s assessment of the alternatives and the expected benefits of the merger and compatibility of the companies, as described under “Rationale for the Merger” beginning on page 42;


    • the value of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger agreement relative to the then-current market prices and historical trading prices of CVS and Caremark common stock over the past one year period and relative to the consideration paid in business combinations of comparable size, as discussed in our financial advisors’ comparable transaction analysis;


    • current industry, economic and market conditions, including the dynamic pace of change in the U.S. healthcare industry, the increasing trend towards consumer demands for access, convenience and flexibility, and the growing convergence of employer and retail customer interests in mitigating healthcare cost, improving outcomes and benefits and plan design;


    • the likelihood of the enhancement of the strategic position of the combined company, which combines CVS’ and Caremark’s complementary businesses, and creates a broader company with enhanced operational and financial flexibility and increased opportunity for growth;


    • the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, which include restrictions on the conduct of CVS’ and Caremark’s respective businesses pending closing but which permit each of CVS and Caremark generally to conduct its business in the ordinary course during that period (see “The Merger Agreement” beginning on 91);


    • the potential effect of the terms of the merger agreement with respect to possible third party proposals to acquire CVS after execution of the merger agreement, including that if any third party made a superior proposal (as described under “The Merger Agreement—Termination” beginning on page 100), the CVS board of directors could provide information to and engage in negotiations with such third party, subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement;


    • that while the termination payment provisions of the merger agreement could have the effect of discouraging alternative proposals for a business combination with CVS, these provisions would not preclude bona fide alternative proposals, and that the size of the termination fee was reasonable in light of the size and benefits of the transaction and not preclusive of a superior transaction, if one were to emerge;


    • the fact that CVS stockholders would hold approximately 54.5% of the outstanding shares of the combined company after the merger;


    • the analyses and presentation prepared by each of Evercore and Lehman Brothers and their respective opinions, dated as of November 1, 2006, that, based upon the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the review set forth in their respective opinions, the exchange ratio provided for in the merger was fair from a financial point of view to CVS. Each of Evercore’s and Lehman Brothers’ opinion is described in detail below under the heading “—Opinions of Financial Advisors to the CVS Board of Directors” beginning on page 46;


    • the challenges of combining the businesses of two corporations of this size and the attendant risks of not achieving the expected strategic benefits, cost savings, other financial and operating benefits or improvement in earnings, and of diverting management focus and resources from other strategic opportunities and from operational matters for an extended period of time;

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    • that, while the merger is likely to be completed, there are risks associated with obtaining necessary approvals on terms that satisfy closing conditions to the respective parties’ obligations to complete the merger, and, as a result of certain conditions to the completion of the merger, it is possible that the merger may not be completed even if approved by stockholders (see “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99);


    • that, upon completion of the merger, Thomas M. Ryan, the current chairman, president and chief executive officer of CVS, will become the chief executive officer of the combined company and is expected to remain in that position until at least January 2010, and David B. Rickard, current chief financial officer and chief administrative officer of CVS, will be the chief financial officer of the combined company, and that, upon completion of the merger, E. Mac Crawford, the current chairman, president and chief executive officer of Caremark, will become the chairman of the board of directors of the combined company, and Howard A. McLure, Caremark’s current senior executive vice president and chief operating officer, will run the combined company’s pharmacy services business;


    • regulatory and litigation risks associated with the transaction or combining the two companies; and


    • the ability to complete the merger as a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

         In view of the number and wide variety of factors considered in connection with its evaluation of the merger and the complexity of these matters, the CVS board of directors did not find it practicable to, nor did it attempt to, quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors that it considered. In addition, the CVS board of directors did not undertake to make any specific determination as to whether any particular factor was favorable or unfavorable to the CVS board of directors’ ultimate determination or assign any particular weight to any factor, but conducted an overall analysis of the factors described above, including through discussions with and questioning of CVS’ management and management’s analysis of the proposed merger based on information received from CVS’ legal, financial and accounting advisors. In considering the factors described above, individual members of the CVS board of directors may have given different weight to different factors.

         In considering the recommendation of the CVS board of directors with respect to the proposals to amend the CVS charter and issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger, you should be aware that certain CVS directors and officers have arrangements that cause them to have interests in the transaction that are different from, or are in addition to, the interests of CVS stockholders generally. See “Interests of CVS Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 61.

         The CVS board of directors considered all these factors together and, on the whole, thought them to be favorable to, and to support, its determination to recommend approval by CVS stockholders of the proposals necessary to complete the merger.

    Recommendations of the CVS Board of Directors

         At its November 1, 2006 meeting, after due consideration with CVS management and CVS’ legal and financial advisors, the CVS board of directors unanimously determined that the merger agreement, and the transactions contemplated therein, including the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger and the amendments to the CVS charter, are advisable and in the best interests of CVS and the CVS stockholders. Accordingly, the CVS board of directors unanimously recommends to its stockholders that they vote “FOR” the proposal to amend the CVS charter to increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock and change the name of CVS Corporation to CVS/Caremark Corporation, “FOR” the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the CVS special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of the amendments and issuance.

    Opinions of Financial Advisors to the CVS Board of Directors

         CVS retained Evercore and Lehman Brothers as financial advisors to the CVS board of directors in connection with the merger.

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         On November 1, 2006, at a meeting of the CVS board of directors held to evaluate the proposed merger, Evercore and Lehman Brothers delivered to the CVS board of directors separate oral opinions, which opinions were confirmed by delivery of separate written opinions dated November 1, 2006, to the effect that, as of that date and based on and subject to various assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken described in each such opinion, the exchange ratio provided for in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to CVS.

         Evercore’s and Lehman Brothers’ opinions, the full texts of which describe the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken by Evercore and Lehman Brothers, are attached as Annex D and Annex E, respectively, and are incorporated into this document by reference. Evercore’s and Lehman Brothers’ opinions were directed only to the fairness to CVS, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger and do not address any other aspect of the merger. The opinions do not address the relative merits of the merger as compared to other business strategies or transactions that might be available with respect to CVS or CVS’ underlying business decision to effect the merger. The opinions do not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how such stockholder should vote or act with respect to any matters relating to the merger. Holders of CVS common stock are encouraged to read the opinions carefully in their entirety. The summaries of Evercore’s and Lehman Brothers’ opinions described below are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full texts of the opinions.

       Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.

         Evercore has acted as one of CVS’ financial advisor in connection with the merger. In connection with Evercore’s engagement, the CVS board of directors requested that Evercore render an opinion to the CVS board of directors as to the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio to CVS. At the meeting of the CVS board of directors on November 1, 2006, Evercore rendered its oral opinion, which was subsequently confirmed in writing dated as of the same date, that, as of such date and based upon and subject to the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered, and qualifications and limitations set forth in its written opinion, which are described below, the exchange ratio was fair, from a financial point of view, to CVS.

         The full text of Evercore’s written opinion, dated November 1, 2006, which sets forth, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered, and qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken in connection with its opinion, is attached as Annex D to this document and is incorporated by reference into this document. The summary of Evercore’s fairness opinion set forth in this document is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the opinion. Stockholders should read the opinion carefully and in its entirety.

         Evercore’s opinion is addressed to the board of directors of CVS, and addresses only the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio to CVS. Evercore’s opinion does not address the underlying decision by CVS to engage in the merger and does not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder of CVS, Caremark or any other person as to how such person should vote or act on any matter relating to the proposed merger.

         In arriving at its opinion, Evercore, among other things:

    • analyzed certain publicly available financial statements and other publicly available business information including Wall Street research analyst reports relating to CVS and Caremark that Evercore deemed relevant to its analysis;


    • analyzed certain internal non-public financial and operating data concerning CVS and Caremark prepared and furnished to Evercore by the management of each of CVS and Caremark, respectively;


    • analyzed certain financial projections concerning Caremark for 2006 and 2007 furnished to Evercore by the management of Caremark and certain financial projections concerning CVS for 2006 and 2007 furnished to Evercore by the management of CVS;

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    • reviewed the amount and timing of the synergies expected to result from the merger as well as the transaction expenses and one-time cash costs arising from the proposed transaction (which Evercore refers to as “integration costs”), both as estimated by the management of CVS and furnished to Evercore by CVS;


    • discussed the past and current operations and financial condition and the prospects of CVS and Caremark with the management of each of CVS and Caremark, respectively;


    • reviewed the reported prices and trading activity of the Caremark common stock and the CVS common stock;


    • compared the financial performance of Caremark and the prices and trading activity of the Caremark common stock with that of selected publicly traded companies and their securities;


    • compared the financial performance of CVS and the prices and trading activity of CVS common stock with that of selected publicly traded companies and their securities;


    • compared the proposed financial terms of the merger with publicly available financial terms of certain transactions that Evercore deemed reasonably comparable to the merger;


    • considered the potential pro forma impact of the merger on CVS, based on inputs and analysis provided by CVS management;


    • reviewed a draft of the merger agreement dated November 1, 2006, which Evercore assumed was in substantially final form and would not vary in any respect material to its analysis; and


    • performed such other analyses and examinations and considered such other factors as Evercore in its sole judgment deemed appropriate for purposes of its opinion.

         For purposes of its analyses and opinion, Evercore relied upon and assumed, without assuming any responsibility for independently verifying, the accuracy and completeness of all the financial and other information that was publicly available or was furnished to Evercore by Caremark or CVS or otherwise discussed with or reviewed by or for Evercore, and it has not assumed any liability therefor. Evercore further relied upon the assurances of the management of CVS and Caremark, respectively, that they were not aware of any facts that would make such information inaccurate or misleading. Evercore did not make nor assume any responsibility for making any valuation or appraisal of any assets or liabilities of CVS or Caremark, nor were any such valuations or appraisals provided to Evercore.

         With respect to the CVS projections provided to Evercore by CVS management and the Caremark projections provided to Evercore by Caremark management, Evercore assumed that such projections were reasonably prepared on a basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of each of the management of CVS and Caremark, respectively, as to future financial performance. With the consent of the management of CVS, Evercore relied on certain publicly available Wall Street research analyst projections for forecasted financial results for CVS and Caremark in both 2008 and 2009. With respect to the synergies expected to result from the merger and integration costs estimated by the management of CVS to result from the merger, Evercore assumed that the timing and amounts of such synergies and integration costs were reasonable. Evercore expressed no view as to such financial analyses and forecasts, the synergies and the integration costs or the assumptions on which they were based. Evercore also assumed that the merger would qualify as a tax-free reorganization for United States federal income tax purposes, and that the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement would be consummated as described in the merger agreement and without any waiver, amendment or modification of any terms or conditions that would have been material to Evercore’s opinion. Evercore further assumed that all required governmental, regulatory or other consents and approvals necessary for the consummation of the merger would be obtained without any of the changes described in Section 8.01(a) of the merger agreement.

         Evercore’s opinion was necessarily based on economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to Evercore as of, November 1, 2006. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect Evercore’s opinion and that Evercore does not have any obligation to update, revise, or

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    reaffirm its opinion. Evercore’s opinion was limited to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to CVS of the exchange ratio. Evercore expressed no opinion as to the price at which CVS common stock would trade at any future time.

         CVS engaged Evercore to act as a financial advisor based on its qualifications, experience and reputation and its knowledge of the business of CVS. Evercore is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses in connection with mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, competitive biddings, private placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes.

         Evercore acted as financial advisor to CVS with respect to the proposed merger pursuant to a letter agreement dated April 21, 2006 and will receive a fee from CVS for its services, the principal portion of which is contingent upon consummation of the merger. CVS has agreed to reimburse Evercore’s expenses and to indemnify Evercore against certain liabilities arising out of its engagement, including certain liabilities under the federal securities laws. In addition, Evercore has acted as financial advisor to CVS in the past and received customary fees for its services. In the ordinary course of business, the affiliates of Evercore Group L.L.C. may actively trade the debt and equity securities, or options on securities, of CVS or Caremark, for its own account and for the accounts of its customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position in such securities.

         Financial Analysis

         The following is a summary of the material financial analyses performed by Evercore in connection with the preparation of its opinion delivered to the CVS board of directors on November 1, 2006. The financial analyses summarized below include information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand the financial analyses used by Evercore, the tables must be read together with the text of each summary. Considering any portion of such analyses and of the factors considered, without considering all analyses and factors, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying Evercore’s opinion.

         Historical Share Price Analysis

         Evercore considered historical data with regard to the trading prices of CVS and Caremark common stock for the one-year period prior to and including October 31, 2006. During this period, the closing stock price of CVS common stock ranged from a low of $23.89 to a high of $36.14 per share, and the closing price of Caremark ranged from a low of $42.40 to a high of $59.89 per share. The foregoing historical share price analysis was presented to the CVS board of directors to provide it with background information and perspective with respect to the relative historical share prices of CVS and Caremark common stock.

         Historical Exchange Ratio Analysis

         Evercore compared the historical per share prices of CVS common stock and Caremark common stock for different periods during the three years prior to and including October 31, 2006 in order to determine the average implied exchange ratio that existed for those periods. The following table indicates the average exchange ratio of CVS common stock for Caremark common stock for the periods indicated:

        Implied Exchange
    Ratio

    October 31, 2006   1.569x
    1 Month average   1.660x
    2 Month average   1.679x
    3 Month average   1.673x
    6 Month average   1.650x
    1 Year average   1.714x
    2 Year average   1.660x
    3 Year average   1.624x

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         Equity Research Analysis

         Evercore compared recent publicly available research analyst price targets from firms that published price targets for CVS or Caremark as of October 31, 2006, the last trading day prior to the delivery of Evercore’s opinion.

         Evercore calculated the mean and median target price for each of the CVS common stock and the Caremark common stock based on the analysts’ price targets. The analysis yielded mean and median share price targets for CVS of $39.47 and $40.00, respectively. Similar analysis for Caremark yielded mean and median share price targets of $63.96 and $62.00, respectively.

         Peer Group Trading Analysis

         In order to assess how the public market values shares of similar publicly traded companies, Evercore reviewed and compared specific financial and operating data relating to each of CVS and Caremark with selected companies that Evercore deemed to have certain characteristics that are similar to those of CVS and Caremark, respectively. As part of its peer group trading analysis, Evercore calculated and analyzed the ratio of current stock price to estimated 2007 earnings per share (commonly referred to as a price earnings ratio, or P/E) for CVS and Caremark, respectively, and each member of its respective peer group. Evercore also calculated and analyzed the ratio of enterprise value to estimated 2007 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (or, EBITDA) for CVS and Caremark, respectively, and each member of its respective peer group. The enterprise value of each company was obtained by adding its short and long term debt, to the sum of the market value of its common equity, and the book value of any minority interest, and subtracting its cash and cash equivalents and market value of unconsolidated investments. All of these calculations were performed based on closing prices as of October 31, 2006, the last trading date prior to the delivery of Evercore’s opinion.

         CVS

         The companies that Evercore deemed to have certain characteristics that are similar to those of CVS were Walgreens, Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu Group, Rite Aid and Longs Drug Stores.

         The analysis of current stock price to earnings indicated that, for the selected peer group, the ratio of current stock price to estimated 2007 earnings per share ranged from 19.6x to 20.9x. This compared to a current stock price as a multiple of estimated 2007 earnings per share ratio of 16.6x for CVS, based on publicly available research estimates.

         The analysis of financial multiples indicated that, for the selected peer group, enterprise value as a multiple of estimated 2007 EBITDA ranged from 7.3x to 11.7x. This compared to enterprise value as a multiple of estimated 2007 EBITDA of 8.7x for CVS, based on publicly available research estimates.

         Caremark

         The companies that Evercore deemed to have certain characteristics that are similar to those of Caremark were Medco Health Solutions and Express Scripts.

         The analysis of current stock price to earnings indicated that, for the selected peer group, the ratio of current stock price to estimated 2007 earnings per share ranged from 16.6x to 17.1x. This compared to a current stock price as a multiple of estimated 2007 earnings per share ratio of 17.4x for Caremark, based on publicly available IBES research estimates.

         The analysis of financial multiples indicated that, for the selected peer group, enterprise value as a multiple of estimated 2007 EBITDA ranged from 9.4x to 10.1x. This compared to enterprise value as a multiple of estimated 2007 EBITDA of 9.7x for Caremark, based on publicly available research estimates.

         Evercore calculated implied exchange ratios based on the peer group trading analysis for both CVS and Caremark ranging from 1.418x to 1.614x.

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         Evercore selected the peer groups above because their businesses and operating profiles are reasonably similar to that of CVS and Caremark, as applicable. However, because of the inherent differences between the businesses, operations and prospects of CVS and Caremark, on the one hand, and the businesses, operations and prospects of the selected peer groups on the other, no company is exactly the same as CVS or Caremark. Therefore, Evercore believed that it was inappropriate to, and therefore did not, rely solely on the quantitative results of the peer group trading analysis. Accordingly, Evercore also made qualitative judgments concerning differences between the financial and operating characteristics and prospects of CVS and Caremark and the companies included in the peer group trading analysis that would affect the public trading values of each company in order to provide a context in which to consider the results of the quantitative analysis. These qualitative judgments related primarily to the differing sizes, growth prospects, profitability levels and degree of operational risk between CVS and Caremark, on the one hand, and the companies included in the peer group trading analysis.

         Contribution Analysis

         Evercore analyzed the respective contributions of CVS and Caremark to estimated 2007 and 2008 EBITDA and Net Income of the combined company based on projections prepared by CVS management and Caremark management for 2007 and certain publicly available Wall Street research estimates for 2008. The analysis excludes the effect of expected synergies, integration costs and other financial effects of the transaction. Evercore also analyzed the respective contributions based on the market value of each of CVS and Caremark as of October 31, 2006. Evercore used the contributions to calculate an implied exchange ratio. In doing this for EBITDA contributions, Evercore made certain adjustments to reflect the capital structures of CVS and Caremark. The contribution analysis indicated the following relative contributions of CVS and Caremark and the following implied exchange ratios:

        Contribution





    Metric   10/31/06   2007E   2008E




                 
    EBITDA            
    CVS       63.5%    63.6%
    Caremark       36.5%    36.4%
    Implied exchange ratio       1.434x   1.427x
                 
    Net Income            
    CVS       56.6%    57.0%
    Caremark       43.4%    43.0%
    Implied exchange ratio       1.525x   1.498x
                 
    Market Capitalization            
    CVS   55.9%        
    Caremark   44.1%        
    Implied exchange ratio   1.569x        

         Precedent Transaction Analysis

         Using publicly available information, Evercore reviewed and compared the purchase prices and financial multiples paid in acquisitions of companies that Evercore, based on its experience with merger and acquisition transactions, deemed relevant to arriving at its opinion. Evercore performed the analysis for both CVS and Caremark. Evercore chose the transactions used in the precedent transaction analysis based on the similarity of the target companies in the transactions to CVS and Caremark, as applicable. However, no precedent transaction is identical to the merger. As a result, these analyses are not purely mathematical, but also take into account differences in financial and operating characteristics of the subject companies and other factors that could affect the transactions to which the merger is being compared.

         Evercore reviewed the following transactions in the precedent transaction analysis for CVS:

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    Date Announced   Target   Acquirer



    08/24/06   Brooks and Eckerd   Rite Aid
    01/23/06   Albertson’s Stand-alone Drug Business   CVS
    04/05/04   Eckerd   CVS
    04/05/04   Eckerd   Jean Coutu Group
    12/23/03   Duane Reade   Oak Hill Capital Partners
    11/18/99   Shoppers Drug Mart   Kohlberg Kravis Roberts
    11/24/98   Genovese Drug Stores   JC Penney
    08/03/98   American Stores   Albertson’s
    02/09/98   Arbor Drugs   CVS
    06/18/97   Duane Reade   DLJ Merchant Bkg Partners II
    02/07/97   Revco   CVS
    11/04/96   Eckerd   JC Penney
    10/28/96   Big B   Revco
    10/14/96   Thrifty Payless Holdings   Rite Aid
    08/06/96   Fay’s   JC Penney
    10/23/95   Big V Pharmacies   Shoppers Drug Mart (Imasco)
    08/28/95   Medicine Shoppe International   Cardinal Health

         Evercore reviewed the following transactions in the precedent transaction analysis for Caremark:

    Date Announced   Target   Acquirer



    07/21/05   Priority Healthcare   Express Scripts
    02/23/05   Accredo Health   Medco Health Solutions
    09/02/03   AdvancePCS   Caremark Rx
    02/06/02   Nat’l Prescript. Administrators   Express Scripts
    07/12/00   PCS Health Systems   Advance Paradigm
    05/04/00   ProVantage Health Services   Merck-Medco
    02/09/99   Diversified Pharmaceutical Group   Express Scripts
    11/17/98   PCS Health Systems   Rite Aid
    02/20/98   ValueRx   Express Scripts
    01/15/97   Value Health   Columbia/HCA Healthcare
    05/14/96   Caremark International   MedPartners
    03/27/95   Diagnostek   Value Health
    07/10/94   PCS Health Systems   Eli Lilly
    07/27/93   Medco Containment Services   Merck

         Evercore calculated implied exchange ratios based on the precedent transaction analysis ranging from 1.447x to 2.001x.

         Premia Paid Analysis

         Evercore reviewed the premia paid in all all-stock transactions valued at greater than $10 billion during the five year period preceding October 31, 2006. Evercore calculated the premium per share paid by the acquirer compared to the share price of the target company prevailing one day, one week and four weeks prior to the announcement of the transaction, producing mean premia of 13.7%, 14.8% and 17.5%, respectively, and median premia of 12.6%, 14.4% and 17.3%, respectively.

         Evercore also reviewed the premia paid in all all-stock transactions valued at greater than $1 billion with pro forma acquirer ownership between 40%-60% since January 1, 2000. Evercore calculated the premium per share paid by the acquirer compared to the share price of the target company prevailing one day, one week and four weeks prior to the announcement of the transaction. All transactions since January 1, 2000 result in mean premia of 20.8%, 22.2% and 21.0% respectively, and median premia of 13.9%, 16.8% and 10.4%, respectively. To evaluate a more recent trend of transaction premia paid, a separate analysis of transactions since January 1, 2001 was considered. All

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    transactions since January 1, 2001 produce mean premia of 6.7%, 5.5% and 7.2%, respectively, and median premia of 7.5%, 6.9% and 8.9%, respectively.

         Evercore calculated implied exchange ratios based on the premia paid analysis ranging from 1.569x to 1.883x.

         Discounted Cash Flow Analysis

         Evercore performed a discounted cash flow analysis for each of CVS and Caremark by adding (1) the present value of such company’s projected after-tax unlevered free cash flows for fiscal year 2007 based on such company’s management estimates, and for fiscal years 2008 through 2009 based on certain publicly available Wall Street research estimates and (2) the present value of the “terminal value” of such company as of December 31, 2009. “Terminal value” refers to the estimated value of all future cash flows from an asset at a particular point in time.

         A discounted cash flow analysis is a traditional valuation methodology used to derive a valuation of an asset by calculating the “present value” of estimated future cash flows of the asset. “Present value” refers to the current value of future cash flows or amounts and is obtained by discounting those future cash flows or amounts by a discount rate that takes into account macro-economic assumptions and estimates of risk, the opportunity cost of capital, expected returns and other appropriate factors.

         Evercore estimated a range of CVS terminal values in 2009 based on certain publicly available Wall Street research estimates for EBITDA and selected trailing EBITDA exit multiples of 9.5x to 10.5x. Evercore estimated a range of Caremark terminal values in 2009 based on certain publicly available Wall Street research estimates for EBITDA and selected trailing EBITDA multiples from 11.0x to 12.0x. For each of CVS and Caremark, Evercore discounted the unlevered free cash flow streams and the estimated terminal value to a present value at discount rates ranging from 9.0% to 11.0% . The discount rates utilized in this analysis were chosen by Evercore based on the industry and also on an analysis of the weighted average cost of capital of CVS and Caremark, as applicable, and other companies in such company’s peer group. Evercore calculated per share equity values by first determining a range of enterprise values of CVS and Caremark, as applicable, by adding the present values of the after-tax unlevered free cash flows and terminal values for each EBITDA terminal multiple and discount rate scenario, and then subtracting from the enterprise values the net debt (which is total debt minus cash) of such company, and dividing those amounts by the number of fully diluted shares of such company.

         Based on the projections and assumptions set forth above, the discounted cash flow analysis of CVS yielded an implied valuation range for CVS common stock of $37.19 to $43.61 per share, and the discounted cash flow analysis of Caremark yielded an implied valuation range for Caremark common stock of $62.46 to $70.50 per share.

         Evercore calculated implied exchange ratios based on the discounted cash flow analyses ranging from 1.546x to 1.745x, excluding the impact of any synergies or integration costs.

         Pro Forma Analysis

         In order to evaluate the estimated ongoing impact of the merger, Evercore analyzed the pro forma earnings impact of the merger from the perspective of CVS stockholders assuming the merger closes June 30, 2007. For the purposes of this analysis, Evercore assumed (1) a $52.40 per share price for Caremark common stock acquired pursuant to the 1.670 exchange ratio and the merger, (2) a $31.38 per share price for CVS common stock (the closing market price per share on October 31, 2006), (3) a transaction structure with 100% stock consideration, (4) financial forecasts for each company from each management for 2007 and certain publicly available Wall Street research estimates for 2008, and (5) synergy, integration costs and purchase accounting adjustments in accordance with CVS management estimates. Evercore estimated that, based on the assumptions described above, the pro forma impact of the transaction on the earnings per share of CVS would be approximately 3% dilutive to 2007 earnings per share, and approximately 1.5% accretive to 2008 earnings per share. The financial forecasts that underlie this analysis are subject to substantial uncertainty and, therefore, actual results may be substantially different.

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         General

         In connection with the review of the merger by the CVS board of directors, Evercore performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses for purposes of rendering its opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. In arriving at its opinion, Evercore considered the results of all of its analyses as a whole and did not attribute any particular weight to any analysis or factor considered by it. Furthermore, Evercore believes that the summary provided and the analyses described above must be considered as a whole and that selecting any portion of its analyses, without considering all of them, would create an incomplete view of the process underlying its analyses and opinion.

         In performing its analyses, Evercore made numerous assumptions with respect to risks associated with industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of CVS or Caremark. Any estimates contained in these analyses are not necessarily indicative of future results or actual values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by such estimates. No limitations were imposed by CVS on the scope of Evercore’s investigations or the procedures followed by Evercore in rendering its opinion.

       Opinion of Lehman Brothers Inc.

         In September 2006, Lehman Brothers began assisting the CVS board of directors as its financial advisor with respect to pursuing a strategic combination with Caremark, and on November 1, 2006, the CVS board of directors entered into a written engagement agreement with Lehman Brothers. On November 1, 2006, Lehman Brothers rendered its oral opinion (subsequently confirmed in writing) to the CVS board of directors that as of such date and, based upon and subject to the matters stated in its opinion, from a financial point of view, the exchange ratio to be paid in the merger was fair to CVS.

         The full text of Lehman Brothers’ written opinion, dated November 1, 2006, is attached as Annex E to this joint proxy statement-prospectus. Stockholders are encouraged to read Lehman Brothers’ opinion carefully in its entirety for a description of the assumptions made, procedures followed, factors considered and limitations upon the review undertaken by Lehman Brothers in rendering its opinion. The following is a summary of Lehman Brothers’ opinion and the methodology that Lehman Brothers used to render its opinion. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the opinion.

         Lehman Brothers’ advisory services and opinion were provided for the information and assistance of the CVS board of directors in connection with its consideration of the merger. Lehman Brothers’ opinion is not intended to be and does not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder of CVS as to how such stockholder should vote in connection with the merger. Lehman Brothers was not requested to opine as to, and Lehman Brothers’ opinion does not address, CVS’ underlying business decision to proceed with or effect the merger.

         In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers reviewed and analyzed, among other things:

    • the merger agreement and the specific terms of the merger;


    • publicly available information concerning CVS that Lehman Brothers believed to be relevant to its analysis, including CVS’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and CVS’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended April 1, 2006 and July 1, 2006;


    • publicly available information concerning Caremark that Lehman Brothers believed to be relevant to its analysis, including Caremark’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and Caremark’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2006 and June 30, 2006;


    • financial and operating information with respect to the business, operations and prospects of CVS furnished to Lehman Brothers by CVS, including (i) financial projections for CVS prepared by CVS’ management through December 31, 2007 and (ii) the amounts and timing of the cost savings, operating synergies and other strategic benefits expected by the management of CVS to result from a combination of the businesses of CVS and Caremark, which is referred to as estimated synergies;

    54






    • financial and operating information with respect to the business, operations and prospects of Caremark furnished to Lehman Brothers by Caremark, including financial projections for Caremark prepared by Caremark’s management through December 31, 2007;


    • the trading histories of CVS Common Stock and Caremark Common Stock from October 31, 2005 to October 31, 2006 and a comparison of those trading histories with each other and with those of other companies that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant;


    • a comparison of the historical financial results and present financial condition of CVS and Caremark with each other and with those of other companies that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant;


    • published estimates of independent equity research analysts with respect to the future financial performance of CVS and Caremark;


    • the relative contributions of CVS and Caremark to the historical and future financial performance of the combined company on a pro forma basis;


    • a comparison of the financial terms of the merger with the financial terms of certain other transactions that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant, and


    • the potential pro forma impact of the merger on the future financial condition and performance of CVS, including the Estimated Synergies and the effect on CVS’ pro forma earnings per share.

         In addition, Lehman Brothers had discussions with the managements of CVS and Caremark concerning their respective businesses, operations, assets, financial conditions and prospects and undertook such other studies, analyses and investigations as Lehman Brothers deemed appropriate.

         In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the financial and other information used by Lehman Brothers without assuming any responsibility for independent verification of such information. Lehman Brothers further relied upon the assurances of the managements of CVS and Caremark that they were not aware of any facts or circumstances that would make such information inaccurate or misleading. With respect to the financial projections of CVS and Caremark, upon advice of CVS and Caremark, Lehman Brothers assumed that such projections were reasonably prepared on a basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of the managements of CVS and Caremark as to their respective future financial performance and that they would perform substantially in accordance with such projections. With respect to the Estimated Synergies, Lehman has assumed that the amount and timing of Estimated Synergies are reasonable and, upon the advice of CVS, Lehman also has assumed that the Estimated Synergies will be realized substantially in accordance with such estimates. In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers did not conduct or obtain any evaluations or appraisals of the assets or liabilities of CVS or Caremark, nor did it conduct a physical inspection of the properties and facilities of CVS and Caremark. Lehman Brothers’ opinion was necessarily based upon market, economic and other conditions as they existed on, and could be evaluated as of, November 1, 2006.

         The following is a summary of the material financial analyses used by Lehman Brothers in connection with providing its opinion to the CVS board of directors. The financial analyses summarized below include information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand the financial analyses used by Lehman Brothers, the tables must be read together with the text of each summary. Considering any portion of such analyses and of the factors considered, without considering all analyses and factors, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying Lehman Brothers’ opinion.

         Historical Share Price Analysis

         Lehman Brothers considered historical data with regard to the trading prices of CVS and Caremark common stock for the period from October 31, 2003 to October 31, 2006. Lehman Brothers also considered the relative stock price performances during the period from October 31, 2005 to October 31, 2006 of (1) CVS, (2) Caremark, (3) an index of drugstore equities, which is referred to as the Drugstore Index comprised of the common stocks of Longs

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    Drugs, Rite Aid, Shoppers Drug Mart and Walgreens and (4) an index of pharmacy benefit managers, which is referred to as the PBM Index comprised of the common stocks of Express Scripts and Medco.

         Lehman Brothers noted that during this one-year period, the share price of CVS common stock increased 24.9%, which outperformed the Drugstore Index, and the common stock of Caremark declined 4.6%, which outperformed the PBM Index.

         Historical Exchange Ratio Analysis

         Lehman Brothers also compared the historical per share prices of CVS and Caremark during different calendar periods during the one-year period prior to October 31, 2006 in order to determine the implied average exchange ratio that existed for those calendar periods. The following table indicates the average exchange ratio of CVS common stock for Caremark common stock for the calendar periods indicated:

    Calendar Period   Average Exchange Ratio


    October 31, 2006   1.569x
    10-day period   1.614x
    20-day period   1.614x
    30-day period   1.660x
    60-day period   1.679x
    90-day period   1.675x
    180-day period   1.655x
    One-year period   1.707x

         Research Analyst Stock Price Targets

         Lehman Brothers reviewed publicly availably research reports published by various firms with respect to CVS and Caremark and observed that the range of analyst share price targets, which represent future share price targets over the next 12 months, was $38.00 to $41.00 for CVS, and $58.00 to $66.00 for Caremark. Lehman Brothers further observed that (1) CVS’ per share price as of October 31, 2006, represented a discount of (A) 17.4% to the analyst low price target of CVS and (B) 23.5% to the analyst high price target of CVS and (2) Caremark’s per share price as of October 31, 2006, represented a discount of (A) 15.1% to the analyst low price target of Caremark and (B) 25.4% to the analyst high price target of Caremark.

         Comparable Company Analysis

         CVS

         In order to assess how the public market values shares of similar publicly traded companies, Lehman Brothers, based on its experience with companies in the drugstore industry, reviewed and compared specific financial and operating data relating to CVS with the following selected companies that Lehman Brothers deemed comparable to CVS, including:

    • Longs Drugs;


    • Shoppers Drug Mart; and


    • Walgreens.

         As part of its comparable company analysis, Lehman Brothers calculated and analyzed CVS’ and each comparable company’s ratio of current stock price to its projected earnings per share (commonly referred to as a price earnings ratio, or P/E). Lehman Brothers also calculated and analyzed various financial multiples, including CVS’ and each comparable company’s enterprise value to certain projected financial criteria (such as EBITDA). The enterprise value of each company was obtained by adding its short- and long-term debt to the sum of the market value of its common equity and subtracting its cash and cash equivalents. All of these calculations were performed, and based on publicly available financial data (including First Call and Wall Street research estimates) and closing

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    prices, as of October 31, 2006, the last trading date prior to the delivery of Lehman Brothers’ opinion. The following presents the results of this analysis:

        Enterprise Value/EBITDA   P/E






        2006E   2007E   2006E   2007E




    Average (excluding CVS)   11.2x   9.9x   23.4x   20.4x
    CVS at Merger   10.6x   8.7x   20.5x   16.6x

         Caremark

         In order to assess how the public market values shares of similar publicly traded companies, Lehman Brothers, based on its experience with companies in the pharmacy benefit management industry, reviewed and compared specific financial and operating data relating to Caremark with the following selected companies that Lehman Brothers deemed comparable to Caremark, including:

    • Express Scripts; and


    • Medco

         As part of its comparable company analysis, Lehman Brothers calculated and analyzed Caremark’s and each comparable company’s P/E ratio. Lehman Brothers also calculated and analyzed various financial multiples, including Caremark’s and each comparable company’s enterprise value to certain projected financial criteria such as EBITDA. All of these calculations were performed, and based on publicly available financial data (including First Call and Wall Street research estimates) and closing prices, as of October 31, 2006, the last trading date prior to the delivery of Lehman Brothers’ opinion. The following presents the results of this analysis:

        Enterprise Value/EBITDA   P/E






        2006E   2007E   2006E   2007E




    Mean (excluding Caremark)   11.0x   9.7x   19.8x   16.9x
    Caremark at Merger   11.0x   9.6x   20.6x   17.4x

         Lehman Brothers selected the comparable companies above because their businesses and operating profiles are reasonably similar to that of CVS and Caremark, respectively. However, because of the inherent differences between the business, operations and prospects of CVS and Caremark and the businesses, operations and prospects of the selected comparable companies, no comparable company is exactly the same as CVS or Caremark, respectively. Therefore, Lehman Brothers believed that it was inappropriate to, and therefore did not, rely solely on the quantitative results of the comparable company analyses. Accordingly, Lehman Brothers also made qualitative judgments concerning differences between the financial and operating characteristics and prospects of CVS and Caremark and the companies included in the comparable company analyses that would affect the public trading values of each in order to provide a context in which to consider the results of the quantitative analyses. These qualitative judgments related primarily to the differing sizes, growth prospects, profitability levels and degree of operational risk between CVS and Caremark and the companies included in the comparable company analyses.

         Comparable Transaction Analysis

         Selected Drugstore Transactions

         Using publicly available information, Lehman Brothers reviewed and compared the purchase prices and financial multiples paid in ten acquisitions that took place within the drugstore industry, of companies that Lehman Brothers, based on its experience with merger and acquisition transactions, deemed relevant to arriving at its opinion. Lehman Brothers chose the transactions used in this analysis based on the similarity of the target companies in the transactions to CVS in the size, mix, margins and other characteristics of their businesses. Lehman Brothers reviewed the following transactions:

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    Announcement Date   Acquiror   Target



    8/24/06   Rite Aid   Eckerd/Brooks
    1/23/06   CVS   Osco/Sav-on (Albertson’s)
    6/30/04   Oak Hill Capital Partners   Duane Reade
    4/05/04   CVS   Eckerd
    4/05/04   Jean Coutu Group   Eckerd
    11/24/98   J.C. Penney   Genovese
    8/03/98   Albertson’s   American Stores
    2/01/98   CVS   Arbor Drug
    2/07/97   CVS   Revco
    11/01/96   J.C. Penney   Eckerd

         Based on publicly available information, Lehman Brothers considered, among other things, the enterprise value of each target company; the enterprise value of each target company as a multiple of the EBITDA of the target company in each case for the latest 12 months, which is referred to as LTM, prior to the date that the transaction was announced, and the premium to the one-day stock price offered in the transaction. The following table sets forth the results of this analysis:

        Enterprise
    Value
    (in millions)
      Enterprise
    Value/LTM
    EBITDA
      One-Day
    Premium %



    Drugstore Mean     $3,345   11.1x   11.6%
    CVS at Announcement   $32,854   11.0x   NA

         Selected Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transactions

         Using publicly available information, Lehman Brothers reviewed and compared the purchase prices and financial multiples paid in nine acquisitions that took place within the pharmacy benefit manager industry, of companies that Lehman Brothers, based on its experience with merger and acquisition transactions, deemed relevant to arriving at its opinion. Lehman Brothers chose the transactions used in the comparable transaction analysis based on the similarity of the target companies in the transactions to Caremark in the size, mix, margins and other characteristics of their businesses. Lehman Brothers reviewed the following transactions:

    Announcement Date   Acquiror   Target



    7/21/05   Express Scripts   Priority Healthcare
    2/23/05   Medco Health Solutions   Accredo Health
    9/02/03   Caremark Rx   AdvancePCS
    2/06/02   Express Scripts   National Prescriptions Administrators
    7/12/00   Advance Paradigm   PCS Health Systems
    5/04/00   Merck & Co.   Pro Vantage Health Services
    2/09/99   Express Scripts   Diversified Pharmaceutical Services
    11/17/98   Rite Aid   PCS Health Systems
    2/20/98   Express Scripts   ValueRx

         Based on publicly available information, Lehman Brothers considered, among other things, the enterprise value of each target company; the enterprise value of each target company as a multiple of the EBITDA of the target company in each case for the latest 12 months, prior to the date that the transaction was announced, and the premium to the one-day stock price offered in the transaction. The following table sets forth the results of this analysis:

        Enterprise
    Value
    (in millions)
      Enterprise
    Value/LTM
    EBITDA
      One-Day
    Premium %



    Pharmacy Benefit Manager Mean     $1,558   12.8x   37.2%
    CVS at Announcement   $20,260   11.2x   6.4%

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         Discounted Cash Flow Analysis

         As part of its analysis, and in order to estimate the present value of CVS and Caremark common stock, Lehman Brothers prepared a five-year discounted cash flow analysis for CVS and Caremark, calculated as of December 31, 2006, of after-tax unlevered free cash flows for fiscal years 2007 through 2011.

         A discounted cash flow analysis is a traditional valuation methodology used to derive a valuation of a business by calculating the “present value” of estimated future free cash flows of the business. “Present value” refers to the current value of future cash flows and is obtained by discounting those future cash flows by a discount rate that takes into account macro-economic assumptions and estimates of risk, the opportunity cost of capital, expected returns and other appropriate factors. Lehman Brothers performed a discounted cash flow analysis for each of CVS and Caremark by adding (1) the present value of the applicable company’s projected after-tax unlevered free cash flows for fiscal years 2007 through 2011 to (2) the present value of the “terminal value” of the applicable company as of 2011. “Terminal value” refers to the value of all future free cash flows to be derived from a business at a particular point in time.

         CVS Discounted Cash Flow Analysis

         Lehman Brothers estimated, after taking into account selected comparable drugstores’ enterprise values to the last twelve months’ EBITDA multiples, a range of terminal values in 2011 calculated based on selected EBITDA multiples of 9.0x to 11.0x. Lehman Brothers discounted the unlevered free cash flow streams and the estimated terminal value to a present value at a range of discount rates from 9.5% to 11.5% . The discount rates utilized in this analysis were chosen by Lehman Brothers based on its expertise and experience with the drugstore industry and also on an analysis of the weighted average cost of capital of CVS and other comparable companies. Lehman Brothers calculated per share equity values by first determining a range of enterprise values of CVS by adding the present values of the after-tax unlevered free cash flows and terminal values for each EBITDA terminal multiple and discount rate scenario, and then subtracting from the enterprise values the net debt (which is total debt minus cash) of CVS, and dividing those amounts by the number of fully diluted shares of CVS.

         Based on the projections and assumptions set forth above, the discounted cash flow analysis of CVS yielded an implied valuation range of CVS common stock of $37.97 to $50.09 per share. Lehman Brothers noted that the price of CVS common stock as of October 31, 2006 was $31.38 per share, which was (i) 17.4% lower than the low of the per share equity valuation range implied by the foregoing analysis and (ii) 37.3% lower than the high of the per share equity valuation range implied by the foregoing analysis.

         Caremark Discounted Cash Flow Analysis

         Lehman Brothers estimated, after taking into account selected comparable pharmacy benefit managers’ enterprise values to the last twelve months’ EBITDA multiples, a range of terminal values in 2011 calculated based on selected last twelve months EBITDA multiples of 9.5x to 11.5x. Lehman Brothers discounted the unlevered free cash flow streams and the estimated terminal value to a present value at a range of discount rates from 8.5% to 10.5% . The discount rates utilized in this analysis were chosen by Lehman Brothers based on its expertise and experience with the pharmacy benefit management industry and also on an analysis of the weighted average cost of capital of Caremark and other comparable companies. Lehman Brothers calculated per share equity values by first determining a range of enterprise values of Caremark by adding the present values of the after-tax unlevered free cash flows and terminal values for each EBITDA terminal multiple and discount rate scenario, and then subtracting from the enterprise values the net debt of Caremark, and dividing those amounts by the number of fully diluted shares of Caremark.

         Based on the projections and assumptions set forth above, the discounted cash flow analysis of Caremark yielded an implied valuation range of Caremark common stock of $57.00 to $70.88 per share. Lehman Brothers noted that the price of Caremark common stock as of October 31, 2006 was $49.23 per share, which was (i) 13.6% lower than the low of the per share equity valuation range implied by the foregoing analysis and (ii) 30.5% lower than the high of the per share equity valuation range implied by the foregoing analysis.

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         Contribution Analysis

         Lehman Brothers analyzed the respective contributions of CVS and Caremark to the estimated calendar years 2006 and 2007 EBITDA and net income of the combined company based on First Call and Wall Street research estimates. The proportionate contributions were calculated taking into account CVS’ and Caremark’s respective current debt and cash levels and compared to the pro forma ownership of the combined company by CVS and Caremark stockholders as a result of the merger. Based on the implied diluted equity ownership of each of CVS and Caremark stockholders of the combined company, Lehman Brothers calculated a range of implied exchange ratios. The following table sets forth the results of this analysis:

        Imputed Diluted Ownership    

    Metric   CVS   Caremark   Implied
    Exchange Ratio




    EBITDA:            
    2006E   56.7%   43.3%   1.516x
    2007E   57.7%   42.3%   1.454x
                 
    Net Income:            
    2006E   55.6%   44.4%   1.585x
    2007E   56.5%   43.5%   1.529x
                 
    Equity Value at Merger Price   54.5%   45.5%   1.670x

         Pro Forma Analysis

         In order to evaluate the estimated ongoing impact of the merger, Lehman Brothers analyzed the pro forma earnings effect of the merger from the perspective of CVS stockholders. For the purposes of this analysis, Lehman Brothers assumed (1) an exchange ratio of 1.67 shares of CVS common stock for each share of Caremark common stock acquired pursuant to the merger, (2) a $31.38 per share price for CVS common stock (the closing market price per share on October 31, 2006), (3) financial forecasts for each company from management of CVS and Caremark, and (4) cost savings and synergies from the transaction determined by the management of CVS. Lehman Brothers estimated, based on the assumptions described above, and excluding certain non-recurring transaction costs incurred in connection with the merger, the pro forma impact of the transaction on the earnings per share of CVS would be accretive in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Lehman Brothers’ analysis assumed that Caremark contributed to the combined company’s financial results for six months in 2007. The financial forecasts that underlie this analysis are subject to substantial uncertainty and, therefore, actual results may be substantially different.

         General

         In connection with the review of the merger by the CVS board of directors, Lehman Brothers performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses for purposes of rendering its opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers considered the results of all of its analyses as a whole and did not attribute any particular weight to any analysis or factor considered by it. Furthermore, Lehman Brothers believes that the summary provided and the analyses described above must be considered as a whole and that selecting any portion of its analyses, without considering all of them, would create an incomplete view of the process underlying its analyses and opinion. In addition, Lehman Brothers may have given various analyses and factors more or less weight than other analyses and factors and may have deemed various assumptions more or less probable than other assumptions, so that the ranges of valuations resulting from any particular analysis described above should not be taken to be Lehman Brothers’ view of the actual value of CVS or Caremark.

         In performing its analyses, Lehman Brothers made numerous assumptions with respect to industry risks associated with reserves, industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of CVS or Caremark. Any estimates contained in Lehman Brothers’ analyses are not necessarily indicative of future results or actual values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than

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    those suggested by such estimates. The analyses performed were prepared solely as part of Lehman Brothers’ analysis of the fairness from a financial point of view to CVS of the exchange ratio and were prepared in connection with the delivery by Lehman Brothers of its opinion, dated November 1, 2006, to the CVS board of directors. The analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which CVS common stock or Caremark common stock might trade following announcement of the merger or the prices at which CVS common stock might trade following completion of the merger.

         The terms of the merger were determined through arm’s length negotiations between CVS and Caremark and were unanimously approved by the CVS and the Caremark boards of directors. Lehman Brothers did not recommend any specific exchange ratio or form of consideration to CVS or that any specific exchange ratio or form of consideration constituted the only appropriate consideration for the merger. Lehman Brothers’ opinion was provided to the CVS board of directors to assist it in its consideration of the exchange ratio in the merger. Lehman Brothers’ opinion does not address any other aspect of the proposed merger and does constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how to vote or to take any other action with respect to the merger. Lehman Brothers’ opinion was one of the many factors taken into consideration by the CVS board of directors in making its unanimous determination to approve the merger agreement. Lehman Brothers’ analyses summarized above should not be viewed as determinative of the opinion of the CVS board of directors with respect to the value of CVS or Caremark or of whether the CVS board of directors would have been willing to agree to a different exchange ratio or form of consideration.

         Lehman Brothers is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and, as part of its investment banking activities, is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive bids, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes. The CVS board of directors selected Lehman Brothers because of its expertise, reputation and familiarity with CVS and the drugstore and pharmacy benefit management industry generally and because its investment banking professionals have substantial experience in transactions comparable to the merger.

         As compensation for its services in connection with the merger, CVS has agreed to pay Lehman Brothers a customary fee for its services, a portion of which is payable upon delivery of the fairness opinion and the remainder of which is contingent upon the completion of the transaction. Moreover, CVS has agreed to reimburse Lehman Brothers for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the merger and to indemnify Lehman Brothers for certain liabilities that may arise out of its engagement by CVS and the rendering of Lehman Brothers’ opinion. Lehman Brothers has performed various investment banking services for CVS in the past and has received customary fees for such services. Lehman Brothers may continue to provide CVS and its affiliates with investment banking services and will receive customary fees for any such services provided. In addition, Lehman Brothers is currently a lender under one of CVS’ existing revolving credit facilities and was the lead arranger under CVS’ bridge facility that was repaid on December 1, 2006.

         In the ordinary course of its business, Lehman Brothers may actively trade in the debt or equity securities of CVS and Caremark for its own account and for the accounts of its customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position in such securities.

    Interests of CVS Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger

         In considering the recommendation of the CVS board of directors with respect to the merger, CVS stockholders should be aware that executive officers of CVS and members of the CVS board of directors may have interests in the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement that are different than, or in addition to, the interests of the CVS stockholders generally. The CVS board of directors was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in approving the merger agreement and making its recommendation. These interests are summarized below.

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         Board and Committee Composition of the Combined Company

         The following summarizes certain changes that will take effect at the effective time of the merger. Certain members of the CVS board of directors will continue as directors of the combined company. At the effective time, the board of directors of the combined company will be comprised of an equal number of individuals designated by the CVS board and Caremark board, respectively. Mr. Ryan, currently the chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of CVS, will serve as chief executive officer of the combined company and as a director on the board of the combined company.

         As of the effective time, the executive committee of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will be comprised of an equal number of individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the CVS board of directors and individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the Caremark board of directors. As of the effective time, the executive committee of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will consist of Thomas M. Ryan, E. Mac Crawford, one individual who, before completion of the merger, was a member of the CVS board of directors and one individual who, before completion of the merger, was a member of the Caremark board of directors.

         In addition, as of the effective time, the chairman of each of the combined company’s management, planning and development committee and the nominating and corporate governance committees will be an individual who, before completion of the merger, was a member of the CVS board of directors.

         Chief Executive Officer

         As of the effective time of the merger, Mr. Ryan will be the chief executive officer of the combined company. Any removal of Mr. Ryan as chief executive officer of the combined company before January 2010 will require the approval of three-quarters of the members of the board of directors of the combined company.

    Caremark Reasons for the Merger

         The Caremark board of directors unanimously approved the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it. In evaluating the merger, the Caremark board of directors consulted with Caremark’s management, as well as with Caremark’s legal and financial advisors. In reaching its conclusion to approve the merger agreement and the merger transactions, the Caremark board of directors considered a variety of factors weighing favorably towards the merger, including, without limitation, the material factors listed below:

     
  • Strategic Rationale. The fact that the merger is a merger of equals with complementary operations and capabilities of the combined company providing increased scale, a strong financial base and a diversified services portfolio necessary to increase stockholder value, enhance value to the customers and increase cost efficiencies. Specifically, it is anticipated that the merger would allow the combined company to:
     
       
  • capitalize on Caremark’s expertise in serving payors as one of the nation’s leading pharmaceutical services companies and on CVS’ expertise and reputation in serving consumers as one of the nation’s largest pharmacy chains;
     
       
  • provide end-to-end services from plan design analysis to prescription fulfillment;
     
       
  • achieve a financial base and scale capable of delivering enhanced value to customers in the fast changing healthcare environment;
     
       
  • drive value for plan sponsors through an enhanced ability to assist and provide information to plan participants and more effectively manage pharmacy costs;
     
       
  • improve clinical outcomes, resulting in better control over healthcare costs;
     
       
  • offer broader, innovative disease management, health assessment and wellness services to help consumers manage and protect against potential health risks and avoid future healthcare costs;
     

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  • the companies’ shared vision of the evolution of healthcare services and the potential for the combined company to address a number of emerging trends in the healthcare industry, including an aging population, increasing incidence of chronic disease, greater availability of generic drugs, Medicare Part D and consumer directed health plans;
     
       
  • the expanded growth opportunities for the combined company;
     
       
  • the combined company will put together CVS’ and Caremark’s complementary specialty pharmacy offerings to achieve a more comprehensive specialty pharmacy business in terms of diseases covered and will offer expanded distribution capability and patient access through its retail and mail services pharmacies; and
     
       
  • the impact of the merger on Caremark’s clients, plan participants, employees and other constituencies and the expectation that they would benefit from their association with a stronger combined company which could offer: (1) more effective cost management and innovative programs, (2) expanded choice for consumers with greater access, (3) more personalized healthcare services and (4) a dynamic work environment for employees with significantly expanded professional opportunities.
     
     
  • Strategic Alternatives. The strategic alternatives to the merger available to Caremark, including remaining a stand-alone entity and pursuing acquisitions of strategic assets and alternative acquisition candidates, and the determination of the Caremark board of directors that a merger of equals with CVS is expected to yield greater strategic benefits than other reasonably likely alternatives because of the factors described above in “Strategic Rationale”.
     
     
  • Financial Rationale.
     
       
  • The expected merger benefits, including $400 million in anticipated synergies primarily from increased purchasing and operating efficiencies. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward- Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” beginning on pages 35 and 25, respectively.
     
       
  • The financial performance and condition, business operations and prospects of each of Caremark, CVS and the combined company.
     
       
  • Caremark stockholders will own approximately 45.5% of the combined company immediately after the effective time of the merger, which will allow Caremark stockholders to participate in all of the benefits of the combined company, including future growth and expected synergies of the combined company.
     
       
  • The opportunity for Caremark stockholders to benefit from any increase in the trading of CVS common stock between announcement of the merger and the closing of the merger based on the fixed exchange ratio of 1.670 shares of CVS common stock for each share of Caremark common stock.
     
       
  •  
    The expectation that the merger would allow the combined company to generate significant cash flows.
     
     
  • Governance Considerations.
     
       
  • The fact that the board of directors of the combined company will be split evenly between designees from the Caremark board of directors and designees from the CVS board of directors.
     
       
  •  
    The fact that E. Mac Crawford will become chairman of the board of directors of the combined company.
     
       
  •  
    The fact that, while the combined company’s headquarters would be located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, the headquarters of the pharmacy services business would continue to be located in Nashville, Tennessee.
     

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  • The strong management team to be drawn from both Caremark and CVS that will manage the combined company, the complementary cultural fit and organizational structure of both companies and the demonstrated ability of both management of Caremark and management of CVS to integrate and obtain benefits from previous business combinations.
     
     
  • Tax Considerations. The ability to complete the merger as a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
     
     
  • Opinions of Financial Advisors. UBS’ and JPMorgan’s separate opinions, each dated November 1, 2006, to Caremark’s board of directors as to the fairness, from a financial point of view and as of the date of the opinion, of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger, as more fully described in “—Opinions of Financial Advisors to Caremark” beginning on page 66.
     
     
  • Terms of the Merger Agreement.
     
       
  • The merger agreement permits Caremark, before the Caremark special meeting is held, to provide material non-public information to, engage in negotiations with and, in certain circumstances, enter into a conditional definitive agreement with, a third party that makes an acquisition proposal that is or is reasonably likely to lead to a superior proposal (as described in “The Merger Agreement—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95), on the terms and subject to the conditions of the merger agreement.
     
       
  • The circumstances under which the $675 million termination fee is payable under the merger agreement and the view of the Caremark board of directors that these provisions should not preclude bona fide alternative proposals involving Caremark; the fact that the termination fee provisions are reciprocal and the product of negotiations; and the fact that the size of the termination fee is reasonable in light of the size and benefits of the merger.
     
       
  • The fact that the representations, warranties and covenants of Caremark and CVS are reciprocal.
     
       
  • The retention and employee benefit arrangements provided in the merger agreement.
     
     
  • Regulatory Approvals. The regulatory approvals required to complete the merger, including expiration or termination of any waiting period or extension thereof under the HSR Act, and the belief of Caremark’s management that the merger would be approved by the requisite authorities, without the imposition of conditions sufficiently material to preclude or materially diminish the benefits expected from the merger, and would otherwise be consummated in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement.
     
     
  • Due Diligence. The results of Caremark’s due diligence review of CVS.
     

         The Caremark board of directors weighed the aforementioned material factors against a number of other factors identified in its deliberations that weighted negatively against the merger, including, without limitation, the following material factors:

    • the challenges inherent in the combination of two businesses of the size and scope of Caremark and CVS and the possible diversion of management attention for an extended period of time;


    • the risk of not capturing all of the anticipated synergies between Caremark and CVS relating to purchasing efficiencies and the risk that other anticipated benefits of the merger might not be realized;


    • because the exchange ratio is fixed, in the event of a decrease in the price of CVS common stock between the date of execution of the merger agreement and the closing of the merger, Caremark stockholders may receive less value for their shares upon the closing of the merger than calculated pursuant to the exchange ratio on the date of execution of the merger agreement and on the date of the Caremark special meeting;

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  • the limitations imposed in the merger agreement on the conduct by Caremark of its business and on the solicitation by Caremark of alternative business combinations prior to completion of the merger;
     
     
  • certain provisions of the merger agreement that could have the effect of discouraging proposals for alternative transactions involving Caremark, including:
     
       
  • the inability of Caremark to terminate the merger agreement in order to accept a superior alternative transaction from a third party;
     
       
  • the requirement that the Caremark board of directors submit the merger agreement and the merger to the Caremark stockholders for consideration at the special meeting notwithstanding the existence of a superior alternative transaction and the Caremark board of directors’ recommendation of such alternative transaction;
     
       
  • the restrictions on Caremark’s ability to solicit proposals for alternative transactions involving Caremark; and
     
       
  • the requirement that Caremark pay a termination fee of $675 million to CVS if CVS terminates the merger agreement because the Caremark board withdraws its recommendation of the merger or qualifies its recommendation in a manner adverse to CVS and the other circumstances under which the termination fee is payable by Caremark.
     
     
  • the prohibition in the merger agreement on the ability of the Caremark board to withdraw its recommendation of the merger or qualify its recommendation in a manner adverse to CVS other than in connection with Caremark’s receipt of a proposal for a superior alternative transaction involving Caremark;
     
     
  • the circumstances under which CVS may terminate the merger agreement, including if Caremark’s board withdraws its recommendation of the merger or qualifies its recommendation in a manner adverse to CVS;
     
     
  • the conditions to the merger agreement requiring receipt of certain regulatory approvals and clearances (see “Regulatory and Other Approvals Required for the Merger” beginning on page 87);
     
     
  • the additional potential problems and costs, including transaction costs associated with the merger;
     
     
  • the risk that the merger may not be completed despite the parties’ efforts or that the closing may be unduly delayed and the effects on Caremark as a stand-alone company because of such failure or delay; and
     
     
  • the other risks described in “Risk Factors” beginning on page 25.
     

         After consideration of these factors, the Caremark board of directors determined that these risks could be mitigated or managed by Caremark or CVS or by the combined company following the merger, were reasonably acceptable under the circumstances or, in light of the anticipated benefits, the risks were unlikely to have a materially adverse impact on the merger or on the combined company following the merger, and that, overall, these risks were significantly outweighed by the potential benefits of the merger.

         Although this discussion of the information and factors considered by the Caremark board of directors is believed to include the material factors considered by the Caremark board of directors, it is not intended to be exhaustive and may not include all of the factors considered by the Caremark board of directors. In reaching its determination to approve and recommend the merger and the merger agreement, the Caremark board of directors did not quantify or assign any relative or specific weights to the various factors that it considered in reaching its determination that the merger and the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of Caremark and its stockholders. Rather, the Caremark board of directors based its position and recommendation on the totality of the information presented to and factors considered by it. In addition, individual members of the Caremark board of directors may have given differing weights to different factors.

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         In considering the recommendation of the Caremark board of directors with respect to the merger and the merger agreement, you should be aware that certain Caremark directors and officers have arrangements that cause them to have interests in the transaction that are different from, or are in addition to, the interests of Caremark stockholders generally. See “Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 72.

    Recommendations of the Caremark Board of Directors

         The Caremark board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it, including the merger, are advisable and in the best interests of Caremark and the Caremark stockholders and unanimously recommends that the Caremark stockholders vote “FOR” the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger and “FOR” the adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in favor of such adoption and approval.

    Opinions of Financial Advisors to Caremark

         Caremark has retained UBS and JPMorgan as its financial advisors in connection with the merger.

         On November 1, 2006, at a meeting of the Caremark board of directors held to evaluate the proposed merger, UBS and JPMorgan delivered to the Caremark board of directors separate oral opinions, which opinions were confirmed by delivery of separate written opinions dated November 1, 2006, to the effect that, as of that date and based on and subject to various assumptions, matters considered and limitations described in such opinions, the exchange ratio provided for in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to holders of Caremark common stock.

         UBS’ and JPMorgan’s opinions, the full texts of which describe the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and limitations on the review undertaken by UBS and JPMorgan, are attached as Annex F and Annex G, respectively, and are incorporated into this document by reference. UBS’ and JPMorgan’s opinions were directed only to the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the exchange ratio provided for in the merger and do not address any other aspect of the merger. The opinions do not address the relative merits of the merger as compared to other business strategies or transactions that might be available with respect to Caremark or Caremark’s underlying business decision to effect the merger. The opinions do not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how such stockholder should vote or act with respect to any matters relating to the merger. Holders of Caremark common stock are encouraged to read the opinions carefully in their entirety. The summaries of UBS’ and JPMorgan’s opinions described below are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full texts of the opinions.

       Opinion of UBS Securities LLC

         In arriving at its opinion, UBS:

    • reviewed publicly available business and financial information relating to Caremark and CVS;


    • reviewed internal financial information and other data relating to Caremark’s business and financial prospects that were provided to or reviewed with UBS by Caremark’s management and not publicly available, including financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2006 and 2007 prepared by Caremark’s management and financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2008 through 2011, extrapolated per assumptions and other guidance provided to UBS by Caremark’s management;


    • reviewed internal financial information and other data relating to CVS’ business and financial prospects that were provided to or reviewed with UBS by CVS’ management and not publicly available, including financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2006 and 2007 prepared by CVS’ management and financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2008 through 2011, extrapolated per assumptions and other guidance provided to UBS by CVS’ management;

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    • reviewed estimates of synergies prepared by a third party consultant to Caremark and CVS that were provided to UBS by Caremark and not publicly available;


    • considered certain pro forma effects of the merger on CVS’ financial statements for calendar years 2007 and 2008 and certain pro forma effects of the merger relative to Caremark’s projected earnings per share for calendar years 2007 and 2008 on a stand-alone basis;


    • conducted discussions with members of the senior managements of Caremark and CVS concerning the businesses and financial prospects of Caremark and CVS;


    • reviewed publicly available financial and stock market data with respect to other companies UBS believed to be generally relevant;


    • reviewed the publicly available financial terms of other transactions in the retail pharmacy and pharmacy benefits management industries;


    • reviewed current and historical market prices of Caremark common stock and CVS common stock;


    • reviewed the merger agreement; and


    • conducted other financial studies, analyses and investigations, and considered other information, as UBS deemed necessary or appropriate.

         In connection with its review, with Caremark’s consent, UBS did not assume any responsibility for independent verification of any of the information provided to or reviewed by UBS for the purpose of its opinion and, with Caremark’s consent, relied on that information being complete and accurate in all material respects. In addition, at Caremark’s direction, UBS did not make any independent evaluation or appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities, contingent or otherwise, of Caremark or CVS and UBS was not furnished with any such evaluation or appraisal. With respect to the financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2006 and 2007, pro forma effects for calendar year 2007 and synergies referred to above, UBS assumed, at Caremark’s direction, that they were reasonably prepared on a basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of the managements of Caremark and CVS as to the future performance of Caremark and CVS for the covered periods and such pro forma effects and synergies. UBS was not provided with, and did not have access to, financial forecasts and estimates prepared by the managements of Caremark and CVS beyond calendar year 2007. With respect to the financial forecasts and estimates for calendar years 2008 through 2011 and pro forma effects for calendar year 2008 referred to above, UBS relied, at Caremark’s direction, on the assessments of the managements of Caremark and CVS that such financial forecasts and estimates were a reasonable basis on which to evaluate both the future performance of Caremark and CVS for the covered periods and such pro forma effects, and were appropriate for UBS to utilize in its analyses. In addition, UBS assumed, with Caremark’s approval, that the financial forecasts and estimates, including synergies, referred to above would be achieved at the times and in the amounts projected. UBS also assumed, with Caremark’s consent, that the merger would qualify for federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. UBS’s opinion was necessarily based on economic, monetary, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information available to UBS as of, the date of its opinion. Although subsequent developments may affect its opinion, UBS does not have any obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its opinion.

         UBS was not authorized to, and did not, solicit indications of interest in a business combination with Caremark from any party. At Caremark’s direction, UBS was not asked to, and it did not, offer any opinion as to the terms of the merger agreement, other than the exchange ratio to the extent expressly specified in its opinion, or the form of the merger. UBS expressed no opinion as to what the value of CVS common stock would be when issued pursuant to the merger or the price at which CVS common stock or Caremark common stock would trade at any time. In rendering its opinion, UBS assumed, with Caremark’s consent, that Caremark, CVS and Twain MergerSub Corp. would comply with all material terms of the merger agreement and that the merger would be consummated in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement without any adverse waiver or amendment of any material term or condition of the merger agreement. UBS also assumed that all governmental, regulatory or other consents and

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    approvals necessary for the consummation of the merger would be obtained without any material adverse effect on Caremark, CVS or the merger. Except as described above, Caremark imposed no other instructions or limitations on UBS with respect to the investigations made or the procedures followed by UBS in rendering its opinion.

       Opinion of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc.

         In connection with rendering its opinion, JPMorgan, among other things:

    • reviewed a draft of the merger agreement dated October 31, 2006;


    • reviewed certain publicly available business and financial information concerning Caremark and CVS and the industries in which they operate;


    • compared the financial and operating performance of Caremark and CVS with publicly available information concerning certain other companies it deemed relevant and reviewed the current and historical market prices of Caremark common stock and CVS common stock and certain publicly traded securities of such other companies;


    • reviewed certain internal financial analyses and forecasts prepared or approved by the managements of Caremark and CVS relating to their respective businesses, as well as the estimated amount and timing of the cost savings and related expenses and synergies expected to result from the merger; and


    • performed such other financial studies and analyses and considered such other information as it deemed appropriate for the purposes of its opinion.

         In addition, JPMorgan held discussions with certain members of the management of Caremark and CVS with respect to certain aspects of the merger, the past and current business operations of Caremark and CVS, the financial condition and future prospects and operations of Caremark and CVS, the effects of the merger on the financial condition and future prospects of Caremark and CVS and certain other matters it believed necessary or appropriate to its inquiry.

         In giving its opinion, JPMorgan relied upon and assumed, without assuming responsibility or liability for independent verification, the accuracy and completeness of all information that was publicly available or was furnished to or discussed with it by Caremark and CVS or otherwise reviewed by or for it. JPMorgan did not conduct, nor was it provided with, any valuation or appraisal of any assets or liabilities, nor did it evaluate the solvency of Caremark or CVS under any state or federal laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. In relying on the financial analyses and forecasts referred to above, including the estimated amount and timing of the cost savings and related expenses and synergies expected to result from the merger, JPMorgan assumed that they have been reasonably prepared based on assumptions reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of management as to the expected future results of operations and financial condition of Caremark and CVS to which such analyses or forecasts relate. JPMorgan expressed no view as to such analyses or forecasts, including the estimated amount and timing of the cost savings and related expenses and synergies expected to result from the merger, or the assumptions on which they were based. JPMorgan also assumed that the merger will qualify as a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and that, in all respects material to its analyses, the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement will be consummated as described in the merger agreement, and that the definitive merger agreement would not differ in any material respects from the draft of the merger agreement furnished to it. JPMorgan is not a legal, tax or regulatory advisor and relied upon, without independent verification, the assessment of Caremark and its legal, tax or regulatory advisors with respect to legal, tax or regulatory matters. JPMorgan further assumed, in all respects material to its analyses, that all of the representations and warranties of each party contained in the merger agreement are true and correct, that each party to the merger agreement will perform all of the covenants and agreements required to be performed by it thereunder without any consents or waivers of the other parties thereto, and that all material governmental, regulatory or other consents and approvals necessary for the consummation of the merger will be obtained without any adverse effect on Caremark or CVS or on the contemplated benefits of the merger.

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         The JPMorgan opinion was necessarily based on economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to it as of, the date of its opinion. Subsequent developments may affect JPMorgan’s opinion and JPMorgan does not have an obligation to update, revise, or reaffirm its opinion. JPMorgan’s opinion is limited to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of Caremark common stock of the exchange ratio in the merger and it expresses no opinion as to the fairness of the merger to, or any consideration received in connection therewith by, the holders of any other class of securities, creditors or other constituencies of Caremark or as to the underlying decision by Caremark to engage in the merger. JPMorgan expressed no opinion as to the price at which Caremark common stock or CVS common stock will trade at any future time.

       Summary of Joint Financial Analyses of Caremark’s Financial Advisors

         In connection with rendering their respective opinions to Caremark’s board of directors, UBS and JPMorgan jointly performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses which are summarized below. The following summary is not a complete description of all analyses performed and factors considered by UBS and JPMorgan in connection with their opinions. The preparation of a financial opinion is a complex process involving subjective judgments and is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. With respect to the selected companies analysis summarized below, no company used as a comparison is identical or directly comparable to Caremark or CVS. A selected companies analysis necessarily involves complex considerations and judgments concerning financial and operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the public trading values of the companies concerned.

         UBS and JPMorgan believe that the analyses and the summary below must be considered as a whole and that selecting portions of the analyses and factors or focusing on information presented in tabular format, without considering all analyses and factors or the narrative description of the analyses, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the processes underlying UBS’s and JPMorgan’s analyses and their respective opinions. None of the analyses performed by UBS and JPMorgan was assigned greater significance or reliance by UBS or JPMorgan than any other. Each of UBS and JPMorgan arrived at its ultimate opinion based on the results of all analyses undertaken by it and assessed as a whole. Neither UBS nor JPMorgan drew, in isolation, conclusions from or with regard to any one factor or method of analysis for purposes of its opinion.

         The estimates of the future performance of Caremark and CVS provided by or reviewed with the respective managements of Caremark and CVS in or underlying UBS’s and JPMorgan’s analyses are not necessarily indicative of future results or values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those estimates. In performing their analyses, UBS and JPMorgan considered industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of Caremark and CVS. Estimates of the financial value of companies do not necessarily purport to be appraisals or reflect the prices at which companies actually may be sold.

         The exchange ratio was determined through negotiation between Caremark and CVS and the decision to enter into the merger was solely that of Caremark’s board of directors. UBS’s and JPMorgan’s opinions and financial analyses were only one of many factors considered by Caremark’s board of directors in its evaluation of the merger and should not be viewed as determinative of the views of Caremark’s board of directors or management with respect to the merger or the exchange ratio provided for in the merger.

         The following is a brief summary of the material financial analyses reflected in UBS’s and JPMorgan’s joint financial presentation reviewed with Caremark’s board of directors in connection with their respective opinions relating to the proposed merger. The financial analyses summarized below include information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand UBS’s and JPMorgan’s financial analyses, the tables must be read together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not constitute a complete description of the financial analyses. Considering the data below without considering the full narrative description of the financial analyses, including the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could create a misleading or incomplete view of UBS’s and JPMorgan’s financial analyses.

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         Historical Exchange Ratio Analysis

         UBS and JPMorgan reviewed the ratio of Caremark’s daily closing stock prices to CVS’ daily closing stock prices for the 52-week period ended October 31, 2006 and the ratio of the average daily closing stock prices of Caremark to the average daily closing stock prices of CVS for the three-month and six-month periods ended October 31, 2006. This analysis indicated the following high and low implied exchange ratios for the 52-week period ended October 31, 2006 and average implied exchange ratios for the three-month and six month periods ended October 31, 2006, as compared to the exchange ratio provided for in the merger:

        Implied Exchange Ratio

    52-Week High   2.127x
    52-Week Low   1.463x
    Three-Month Average   1.673x
    Six-Month Average   1.651x
         
    Merger Exchange Ratio   1.670x

         Selected Companies Analysis

         UBS and JPMorgan performed separate selected companies analyses of Caremark and CVS by reviewing selected financial data of Caremark, CVS and selected publicly held companies in businesses similar to those of Caremark and CVS. Estimated financial data of the selected companies were based on publicly available research analysts’ estimates. Estimated financial data of Caremark and CVS were based on internal estimates of the respective managements of Caremark and CVS.

         Caremark. UBS and JPMorgan reviewed, among other things, closing stock prices on October 31, 2006 of Caremark and the following selected pharmaceutical benefit management companies, which are referred to as the Caremark selected companies, as a multiple of calendar year 2007 estimated earnings per share, which is referred to as EPS, and enterprise values, calculated as fully diluted equity value based on closing stock prices on October 31, 2006, plus the book value of debt and minority interests, less cash and cash equivalents, of Caremark and the Caremark selected companies as a multiple of calendar year 2007 estimated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, which is referred to as EBITDA:

    • Express Scripts, Inc.


    • Medco Health Solutions, Inc.

         CVS. UBS and JPMorgan reviewed, among other things, closing stock prices on October 31, 2006 of CVS and the following selected retail pharmacy companies, which are referred to as the CVS selected companies, as a multiple of calendar year 2007 estimated EPS and enterprise values of CVS and the CVS selected companies as a multiple of calendar year 2007 estimated EBITDA:

    • Longs Drug Stores Corporation


    • Rite Aid Corporation


    • Walgreen Co.

         Based on the implied equity reference ranges for Caremark and CVS derived by applying calendar year 2007 estimated EPS and EBITDA multiples of Caremark and the Caremark selected companies and of CVS and the CVS selected companies to corresponding financial data of Caremark and CVS, respectively, this analysis indicated the following implied exchange ratio reference range as compared to the exchange ratio provided for in the merger:

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    Implied Exchange
    Ratio Reference Range
      Merger Exchange Ratio


    1.184x - 2.087x   1.670x

         Contribution Analysis

         UBS and JPMorgan reviewed the relative contributions of Caremark and CVS to the combined company’s EBITDA, earnings before interest and taxes, which is referred to as EBIT, and net income for the calendar years 2006 and 2007, enterprise value and equity value based on closing stock prices on October 31, 2006 and book equity value as of June 30, 2006. The implied relative contributions of Caremark and CVS to the combined company based on EBITDA, EBIT and enterprise value contributions were adjusted for the relative contributions of Caremark and CVS to the combined company’s estimated net debt as of June 30, 2006, calculated as outstanding debt less cash and cash equivalents. Estimated financial data of Caremark and CVS were based on internal estimates of the respective managements of Caremark and CVS and reflected, in the case of CVS’ calendar year 2006 estimated EBITDA, EBIT and net income, the full-year pro forma impact of CVS’ acquisition of the stand-alone drugstores of Osco/Sav-on. Based on the implied equity ownership percentages of Caremark’s stockholders in the combined company derived from the relative contributions of Caremark and CVS for each metric reviewed, this analysis indicated the following implied exchange ratio reference range, as compared to the exchange ratio provided for in the merger:

    Implied Exchange
    Ratio Reference Range
      Merger Exchange Ratio


    1.443x - 1.768x   1.670x

         Discounted Cash Flow Analysis

         UBS and JPMorgan reviewed the stand-alone unlevered, after-tax free cash flows, which are referred to as projected free cash flows, that Caremark and CVS could each generate over calendar years 2007 through 2011. Estimated financial data of Caremark and CVS were based on internal estimates for calendar year 2007 prepared by the respective managements of Caremark and CVS and estimates for calendar years 2008 through 2011 extrapolated per assumptions and other guidance provided to UBS and JPMorgan by the respective managements of Caremark and CVS.

    Caremark. UBS and JPMorgan calculated the estimated present value of the projected free cash flows that Caremark could generate over calendar years 2007 through 2011. UBS and JPMorgan also calculated a range of terminal values by applying EBITDA terminal value multiples of 9.0x to 11.0x to Caremark’s calendar year 2011 estimated EBITDA. The cash flows and terminal values were then discounted to present value using discount rates ranging from 10.0% to 11.0% .

    CVS. UBS and JPMorgan calculated the estimated present value of the projected free cash flows that CVS could generate over calendar years 2007 through 2011. UBS and JPMorgan also calculated a range of terminal values by applying EBITDA terminal value multiples of 8.5x to 10.5x to CVS’ calendar year 2011 estimated EBITDA. The cash flows and terminal values were then discounted to present value using discount rates ranging from 8.5% to 9.5% .

    Based on the resulting implied equity reference ranges for Caremark and CVS derived, this analysis indicated the following implied exchange ratio reference range, as compared to the exchange ratio provided for in the merger:

    Implied Exchange
    Ratio Reference Range
      Merger Exchange Ratio


    1.263x - 1.957x   1.670x

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         Accretion/Dilution Analysis

         UBS and JPMorgan reviewed the potential pro forma effect of the merger on CVS’ calendar years 2007 and 2008 estimated EPS and also analyzed the potential pro forma effect of the merger relative to Caremark’s calendar years 2007 and 2008 estimated EPS on a stand-alone basis, in each case after giving effect to potential synergies anticipated by the managements of Caremark and CVS to result from the merger based on estimates prepared by a third-party consultant to Caremark and CVS. Estimated financial data of Caremark and CVS were based on internal estimates for calendar year 2007 prepared by the respective managements of Caremark and CVS and estimates for calendar year 2008 extrapolated per assumptions and other guidance provided to UBS and JPMorgan by the respective managements of Caremark and CVS. Based on the exchange ratio provided for in the merger, the closing stock price of CVS common stock on October 31, 2006 and an assumed merger closing date of December 31, 2006, this analysis indicated that the merger could be accretive to CVS’ calendar year 2008 estimated EPS and Caremark’s calendar years 2007 and 2008 estimated EPS and dilutive to CVS’ calendar year 2007 estimated EPS. Actual results may vary from projected results and the variations may be material.

         Miscellaneous

         Under the terms of separate letter agreements, Caremark has agreed to pay UBS and JPMorgan customary fees for their financial advisory services in connection with the merger, portions of which were payable in connection with their opinions and significant portions of which are contingent upon the completion of the merger. In addition, Caremark has agreed to reimburse UBS and JPMorgan for their reasonable expenses, including reasonable fees, disbursements and other charges of legal counsel, and to indemnify each of UBS and JPMorgan and related parties against liabilities, including liabilities under federal securities laws, relating to, or arising out of, its engagement.

         In the past, UBS has provided investment banking services to Caremark unrelated to the proposed merger, for which UBS received compensation. In addition, an affiliate of UBS currently is a lender under Caremark’s existing bank credit facility, for which such affiliate has received and expects to receive compensation. In the ordinary course of business, UBS, its successors and affiliates may hold or trade, for their own accounts and the accounts of their customers, securities of Caremark and CVS and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position in such securities.

         JPMorgan and its affiliates have provided in the past, and may provide in the future, investment banking, commercial banking and other financial services to Caremark and CVS. Such services for Caremark have included acting as co-documentation agent with respect to Caremark’s credit facilities in 2004 and acting as documentation agent with respect to Caremark’s credit facilities in 2006. Such services for CVS have included acting as co-manager in the placement of certain debt securities of CVS in 2006. In addition, JPMorgan’s commercial bank affiliates are lenders to each of Caremark and CVS under their respective credit facilities. In the ordinary course of their businesses, JPMorgan and its affiliates may actively trade the debt and equity securities of Caremark or CVS for its own account or for the accounts of customers and, accordingly, JPMorgan may at any time hold long or short positions in such securities.

         Caremark selected UBS and JPMorgan as its financial advisors in connection with the merger because they are internationally recognized investment banking firms with substantial experience in similar transactions and because of their familiarity with Caremark and its business. UBS and JPMorgan are continually engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, negotiated underwritings, competitive bids, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities and private placements.

    Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger

         In considering the recommendation of the Caremark board of directors with respect to the merger, Caremark stockholders should be aware that executive officers of Caremark and members of the Caremark board of directors may have interests in the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement that are different than, or in addition to, the interests of the Caremark stockholders generally. The Caremark board of directors was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in approving the merger agreement and making its recommendation. These interests are summarized below.

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         Board and Committee Composition of the Combined Company

         The following summarizes certain changes that will take effect at the effective time of the merger. Certain members of the Caremark board of directors will continue as directors of the combined company. At the effective time, the board of directors of the combined company will be comprised of an equal number of individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the Caremark board of directors and individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the CVS board of directors. Mr. Crawford, currently the chairman, chief executive officer and president of Caremark, will serve as chairman of the board of directors of the combined company.

         At the effective time, the executive committee of the board of directors of the combined company will also be comprised of an equal number of individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the Caremark board of directors and individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the CVS board of directors. As of the effective time, the executive committee of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will consist of Thomas M. Ryan, E. Mac Crawford, one individual who, before completion of the merger, was a member of the CVS board of directors and one individual who, before completion of the merger, was a member of the Caremark board of directors.

         In addition, at the effective time, the chairman of the audit committee of the board of directors of the combined company will be designated from among the individuals who, before the completion of the merger, were members of the Caremark board of directors.

         Equity-Based Awards

         All of the options held by executive officers and directors of Caremark under the equity compensation plans maintained by Caremark (with the exception of any options outstanding under legacy plans of AdvancePCS) will vest and become fully exercisable in connection with the merger. Based upon options outstanding as of December 18, 2006, the number of unvested options to acquire shares of Caremark common stock held by E. Mac Crawford, Edward L. Hardin, Jr., Howard A. McLure, Rudy Mladenovic and William R. Spalding, Caremark’s named executive officers, that will become fully vested and exercisable as a result of the merger is 3,021,200 in the aggregate. The number of unvested options to acquire shares of Caremark common stock held by the executive officers (other than Caremark’s named executive officers) that will become fully vested and exercisable as a result of the merger is 1,768,000 in the aggregate. However, of these options, 757,800 options held by Caremark’s executive officers and directors vest in any event in the ordinary course consistent with the terms and conditions of these options on March 1, 2007, and another 367,000 of these options vest in the ordinary course consistent with the terms and conditions of these options on May 10, 2007.

         In connection with the merger, each Caremark option that is outstanding immediately before completion of the merger will remain outstanding following the completion of the merger and will be converted into the right to acquire shares of CVS common stock as described in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Caremark Stock Options” beginning on page 92. Any option so converted shall as a general rule be exercisable for the remainder of such option’s original term as granted by Caremark except for options granted before September 21, 1998 and options granted under the plan adopted in 2004, which options will expire in accordance with the original grant terms. Based on the number of Caremark options outstanding as of December 18, 2006, a total of 11,093,327 Caremark options held by Caremark executive officers and directors will be so converted upon completion of the merger.

         For additional information about the directors and the executive officers of Caremark and a summary of the Caremark common stock beneficially owned by such individuals, see the sections entitled “About the Meeting—Item 1: Election of Directors,” “General Information About the Company—Directors Continuing in Office,” “General Information About the Company—Executive Officers” and “General Information About the Company—Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers” in the definitive proxy statement for Caremark’s 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the SEC on April 7, 2006.

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         Employment Arrangements

         Caremark has entered into employment agreements with each of its executive officers. Under Caremark’s employment agreement with E. Mac Crawford, Mr. Crawford has the right to resign for any reason within 90 days after a change in control and, upon such resignation, Mr. Crawford is entitled to receive (1) an aggregate severance payment equal to the sum of (A) his base salary for the remaining term of his employment agreement and (B) a separation payment equal to at least two times his base salary (the separation payment being the cash equivalent of Mr. Crawford’s annual bonus target) multiplied by the number of years (including fractions of years) remaining in the term of his employment agreement, and (2) continuation of welfare benefits (e.g., health, dental, disability and life insurance) for the remaining term of his employment agreement. As of December 18, 2006, the term of Mr. Crawford’s employment agreement expires September 1, 2014, and the term will be automatically extended for an additional year on March 18, 2007 unless the Company gives notice of non-extension at least 30 days prior to such date. If Mr. Crawford’s employment is terminated by Caremark other than for “cause” or if he terminates his employment for “good reason” (each as defined in the employment agreement), then Mr. Crawford is entitled to receive the same termination payments and benefits described above. Mr. Crawford intends to resign his employment on completion of the merger and thereafter will serve as chairman of the board of directors of the combined company. Upon his resignation, Mr. Crawford is entitled to a cash severance payment as described in clause (1) in an amount ranging from $36,000,000 to $40,800,000 depending on the remaining term of his employment agreement when completion of the merger occurs. Mr. Crawford, however, as an indication of his commitment to the merger and his confidence in the long-term economic benefits to be derived from the merger, has agreed to accept cash severance payments in the reduced amount of $26,400,000 regardless of the date the merger is completed. See the table entitled “Payment and Benefits Resulting from the Change in Control for Caremark’s Named Executive Officers” below.

         Under Caremark’s employment agreement with Edward L. Hardin, Mr. Hardin has the right to resign at any time within 180 days following a change in control and receive severance benefits. Upon any such resignation, Mr. Hardin is entitled to receive (1) a specified amount consisting of his base salary for the remainder of the term of his employment agreement and any portion or portions of any bonus or other cash incentive compensation accrued with respect to him on Caremark’s books through the date of termination, and (2) continuation of welfare benefits for the remainder of the term of his employment agreement. The term of Mr. Hardin’s employment extends through June 16, 2008. Mr. Hardin intends to retire and resign his employment on completion of the merger and thereafter will serve as a litigation consultant to the combined company. Caremark and Mr. Hardin are negotiating the terms of his consulting agreement. See the table entitled “Payments and Benefits Resulting from the Change in Control for Caremark’s Named Executive Officers” below.

         Under the employment agreement with Diane Nobles, Ms. Nobles has the right to resign at any time after a change in control and receive severance benefits. If Ms. Nobles resigns or the combined company terminates Ms. Nobles’ employment other than for cause (as defined in her employment agreement) after completion of the merger, Ms. Nobles is entitled to receive (1) an aggregate severance payment equal to the sum of Ms. Nobles’ base salary and target bonus, (2) continuation of welfare benefits for a period of one year, and (3) up to $10,000 in outplacement services.

         Under the respective employment agreements of Messrs. David Golding, James Luthin, Mark Weeks and Dennis Zeleny, if, within six months following a change in control of Caremark the combined company fails to assume upon request all of Caremark’s obligations under such executive officer’s employment agreement, or if following a change in control of Caremark, the combined company terminates the executive officer’s employment, the executive officer is entitled to receive (1) an aggregate severance payment equal to two times the sum of the executive officer’s base salary and annual incentive bonus and (2) continuation of welfare benefits for a period of two years (provided that, instead of continuation of welfare benefits, Mr. Weeks is entitled to a one year COBRA continuation of coverage at active employee rates).

         Under their employment agreements, certain Caremark executives are entitled to receive a tax gross-up payment if any of the total payments made to them would be subject to the excise tax under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code. However, based on preliminary calculations it is not expected that these executives will be subject

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    to excise taxes. Finally, all the employment agreements are subject to amendments to minimize the risk that an executive’s benefits will be subject to an additional tax under Section 409A of the Code.

         Payment and Benefits Resulting from the Change in Control for Caremark’s Named Executive Officers

    Name and Principal
    Position
    Number of
    Options that
    will Vest and
    Become
    Exercisable as
    a Result of the
    Merger
    (#)(1)
    Value Realized
    ($)(2)
    Cash Severance
    Payments ($)(3)
    Other Payments
    and Benefits
    ($)(6)
    Estimated
    Aggregate Dollar
    Value of CVS
    Term Sheet
    Deferral Account
    ($)(9)
     Estimated
    Aggregate
    Dollar Value
    ($)
    E. Mac Crawford
       Chief Executive
       Officer, President
       and Chairman of the

       Board
    1,410,000 $14,005,200 $26,400,000(4) $7,617,210(7) N/A $48,022,410
    Edward L. Hardin, Jr.   
       Executive Vice
       President and
       General Counsel
    140,000 $2,086,600 $1,327,500(5)        $8,679(8) N/A $3,422,779
    Howard A. McLure
       Senior Executive Vice
       President and Chief

       Operating Officer
    516,200 $4,923,800 N/A N/A $3,091,038(10) $8,014,838
    Rudy Mladenovic
       Executive Vice
       President of Industry

       Relations
    430,000 $4,173,200 N/A N/A $2,468,711 $6,641,911
    William R. Spalding
       Executive Vice
       President of

       Strategic Initiatives
    525,000 $2,468,000 N/A N/A $3,051,238 $5,519,238

    (1) More detail relating to the number and exercise price of the options that will vest and become exercisable as a result of the Merger for each individual named in the chart above is as follows based on an assumed closing date of December 31, 2006:

    • E. Mac Crawford: 360,000 options with an exercise price of $32.03, 600,000 options with an exercise price of $37.92 and 450,000 options with an exercise price of $50.84.
    • Edward L. Hardin, Jr.: 60,000 options with an exercise price of $32.03 and 80,000 options with an exercise price of $37.92.
    • Howard A. McLure: 120,000 options with an exercise price of $32.03, 160,000 options with an exercise price of $37.92, 111,200 options with an exercise price of $43.55 and 125,000 options with an exercise price of $50.84.
    • Rudy Mladenovic: 120,000 options with an exercise price of $32.03, 160,000 options with an exercise price of $37.92 and 150,000 options with an exercise price of $50.84.
    • William R. Spalding: 400,000 options with an exercise price of $44.13 and 125,000 options with an exercise price of $50.84.

    (2) For purposes of this chart, values are calculated by subtracting the exercise price of the stock option from the fair market value of the underlying common stock. For purposes of this table, fair market value is deemed to be $50.30, the closing price of Caremark common stock on December 15, 2006.

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    (3) Includes estimated payments of base salary and bonus due upon termination of employment upon the occurrence of a change in control, based on salary and bonus information as of December 15, 2006.

    (4) Under the terms of Mr. Crawford’s employment agreement, he is entitled to a cash severance payment in an amount ranging from $36,000,000 to $40,800,000, depending on the remaining term of his employment agreement at the time the closing of the merger occurs. Mr. Crawford, however, as an indication of his commitment to the transaction and his confidence in the long-term economic benefits to be derived from the merger, has agreed to accept cash severance payments in the reduced amount of $26,400,000 regardless of the date of closing of the merger.

    (5) Mr. Hardin’s amount of cash severance payment is calculated based on an assumed closing date of December 31, 2006, and his actual cash severance payment will depend on the remaining term of his employment agreement at the time the closing of the merger occurs.

    (6) Other payments and benefits set forth in the chart above are calculated based on an assumed closing date of December 31, 2006.

    (7) Other payments and benefits includes the following for Mr. Crawford: $67,467 cash payment in lieu of 401(k) match; $804,640 insurance premium payment for policy to fund Caremark’s obligation under the Survivor Benefit Agreement; $3,666,256 cash value of policy to be transferred to Mr. Crawford pursuant to the terms of the Survivor Benefit Agreement; $138,816 for term life insurance coverage, $9,031 paid for long term disability coverage; and $2,931,000 representing the present value of Mr. Crawford’s incremental retirement benefits under his Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan because he will no longer be subject to a benefit reduction upon early retirement. In addition to the amount set forth above, Mr. Crawford will be entitled to receive continued health and welfare benefits, accrued paid-time-off, which is referred to as PTO, and payment of existing deferred compensation accounts under Caremark’s executive benefit plan.

    (8) Other payments and benefits includes $8,679 paid for long term disability coverage. In addition to the amount set forth above, Mr. Hardin will be entitled to receive continued health and welfare benefits, accrued PTO and payment of existing deferred compensation accounts under Caremark’s executive benefit plan.

    (9) Includes the estimated amount to be credited to the executive’s deferral account described in “—Employment Arrangements with the Combined Company” beginning on page 76. The amount is calculated based on the payments and benefits the executive would have been paid under his existing Caremark employment agreement if the executive had been terminated without cause following the change in control, including, to the extent applicable, base pay, bonus, accrued PTO, cash payment in lieu of 401(k) match, life insurance premiums, financial planning allowance, physical exam allowance, car allowance, cellular phone reimbursement, country club dues and long term disability coverage. In addition, the value of certain health and welfare benefits will be included in the executive’s deferral account.

    (10) Amount does not include the separate restricted stock grant to be provided to Mr. McLure upon closing of the Merger. See “—Employment Arrangements with the Combined Company” beginning on page 76.

         Employment Arrangements with the Combined Company

         Certain other executives of Caremark have employment agreements with Caremark, but have agreed to take positions with the combined company after the completion of the merger. These executives include: Jack Bruner, Peter J. Clemens, Sara J. Finley, David Joyner, Bradley S. Karro, Howard A. McLure, Rudy Mladenovic and William Spalding. These executives have entered into term sheets with CVS (on behalf of the combined company), which will supersede their Caremark agreements upon completion of the merger and establish the basic terms and conditions of each executive’s employment thereafter. Andrew Crawford, Mr. Crawford’s son, has also entered into a substantially similar term sheet. The main provisions of the term sheets are summarized below.

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         Each term sheet provides the executive will receive benefits and perquisites comparable to those currently provided by CVS to similarly situated senior executives and provides the executive with a base salary and target bonus not less than his or her respective current base salary and target bonus with Caremark. The term sheet also contains certain restrictive covenants applicable to the executive, including noncompetition, nonsolicitation and confidentiality restrictions.

         Pursuant to these term sheets, upon the effective time of the merger, the combined company will establish a deferral account for the executive to be credited with the amount of all severance benefits which the executive would have been paid under his or her existing Caremark employment agreement if such executive had been terminated without “cause” (as defined in the executive’s Caremark employment agreement) following the change in control. Each deferral account will be comprised of cash or a combination of cash and up to 50% in restricted stock units based on the value of the combined company’s common stock on the date of the completion of the merger. During the applicable deferral period, CVS will credit interest earned on any cash portion of the deferral account based on the treasury interest rate and will credit dividend equivalents on any restricted stock unit portion of the deferral account when dividends are paid on the combined company’s common stock. Any restricted stock units in the deferral account will be settled in properly registered shares of the combined company’s common stock.

         The deferral account of Ms. Finley and Mr. McLure will be fully vested and will be distributed in a lump sum as soon as practicable after the third anniversary of the completion of the merger or such later date selected by the executive, but it will be distributed earlier upon the executive’s death or any termination of employment.

         The deferral accounts of the other executives will vest 50% as of the second anniversary of the completion of the merger and 50% as of the third anniversary of the completion of the merger. These deferral accounts are subject to earlier vesting in full upon the occurrence of one of the following “vested termination events”: (1) the executive’s death or disability, (2) termination of the executive by the combined company without “cause” (as defined in the term sheet), (3) resignation by the executive for “good reason” (as defined in the term sheet), or (4) ”termination without cause” (as defined in the term sheet) within two years following a change in control of the combined company. The deferral account will be distributed in a lump sum as soon as practicable after the occurrence of the earlier of a “vested termination event” or the third anniversary of the completion of the merger or such later date selected by the executive.

         The estimated amount of the deferral accounts for each named executive officer is set forth in “—Payment and Benefits Resulting from the Change in Control for Caremark’s Named Executive Officers” above, and the estimated aggregate amount of the deferral accounts for Mr. Bruner, Mr. Clemens, Ms. Finley, Mr. Joyner and Mr. Karro is $7,391,968.

         Each of Ms. Finley and Mr. McLure will also receive a restricted stock unit award based on the value of CVS common stock as of the effective time of the merger. The award will vest and be settled on the third anniversary of the grant date unless a further deferral election is made, but vesting and settlement will be accelerated upon termination of the executive’s employment by the combined company without “cause,” (as defined in the term sheet) by the executive for “good reason” (as defined in the term sheet) or upon the executive’s death or disability. Dividend equivalents on the award will be paid to the executive in cash during the vesting period and when dividends are paid on the combined company’s common stock. The award will be settled in properly registered shares of the combined company’s common stock. The award will be forfeited if the executive’s employment is terminated for “cause” or by the executive without “good reason”. The amount of the restricted stock unit award will be $750,000 for Ms. Finley and $1,500,000 for Mr. McLure.

         If the executive’s employment terminates before a change in control of the combined company as a result of death or disability, or if the combined company terminates the executive officer’s employment without “cause” or the executive resigns for “good reason” the combined company will pay to the executive:

    • such executive’s salary and bonus which have been earned but not yet paid;


    • pro rata portion of such executive’s target bonus for the year of termination;

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    • settlement of 100% of the executive’s vested deferral account balance in accordance with the applicable deferral terms; and


    • full vesting and settlement of such executive’s restricted stock unit award if applicable.

         If before a change in control of the combined company, the executive’s employment is terminated by the combined company for “cause” or by the executive without “good reason”, the combined company will pay to the executive:

    • such executive’s salary and bonus which have been earned but not yet paid; and


    • settlement of the executive’s vested deferral account balance, in accordance with its terms.

         In addition, the executive will receive continuation of welfare benefits for two years upon his or her termination unless termination is due to death, disability, termination by the company for “cause” or by the executive without “good reason”.

         If, within two years after a change in control of the combined company, the executive’s employment is terminated without “cause” (other than due to death or disability) or the executive resigns under circumstances which constitute a “termination without cause” (as defined in the executive’s term sheet), the executive is entitled to receive benefits that include:

    • an aggregate severance payment equal to 1.5 times the sum of such executive’s base salary and target bonus;


    • settlement of 100% of the executive’s deferral account balance;


    • full vesting and settlement of such executive’s restricted stock unit award;


    • full vesting of all restricted or deferred stock awards and stock options (other than awards under CVS’ Partnership Equity Program); and


    • the balance of any incentive awards earned as of December 31 of the prior year but not yet paid.

         In addition, in the event of certain terminations of employment the executive will receive payment of accrued and pro rata bonus amounts relating to the period prior to termination and continuation of welfare benefits for up to two years.

         If any of the total payments made to an executive covered by the term sheets as a result of the merger or which are credited to his or her deferral account as described above would be subject to the excise tax under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code, CVS has agreed to make a gross-up payment to such executive such that, after taking into account all taxes under Section 4999 applicable to such executive, such executive retains an amount of the gross-up payment equal to the excise tax imposed on the total payments or credits to his or her deferral account.

         Caremark Synergy-Achievement Supplemental Bonus Plan

         The Caremark Synergy-Achievement Supplemental Bonus Plan was adopted by the Caremark board of directors to provide an incentive for certain designated executives of Caremark (1) to exceed the synergy-achievement targets which were set by Caremark’s Compensation Committee in consultation with Mr. Crawford following Caremark’s acquisition of AdvancePCS, (2) to meet cumulative earnings per share targets for the fiscal years 2004 and 2005 and (3) to remain employed by Caremark until all amounts due under the plan had been paid out. Under the terms of the Caremark Synergy—Achievement Supplemental Bonus Plan all synergy achievement targets and cumulative earnings per share targets have already been met, and one-half of each participant’s bonus was paid prior to April 1, 2006, and the remaining one-half is payable no later than April 1, 2007 to each participant remaining employed by Caremark at the time of payment. If the merger, which qualifies as a change in control under the bonus plan, is completed prior to payment of the remaining installment due by April 1, 2007, then the

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    second half of the bonus payment would be accelerated and would become payable to each participant remaining employed by Caremark at the time of payment and, to the extent the total payments made to a participant would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code, Caremark will make a gross-up payment to such participant such that, after taking into account all taxes under Section 4999 applicable to such participant, such participant retains an amount of the gross-up payment equal to the excise tax imposed on the total payments. The approximate cash amount that will be paid under this bonus plan (not including any gross-up payments) for each named executive officer is: $810,000 for Mr. Hardin, $787,500 for Mr. McLure and $712,500 for Mr. Mladenovic, respectively, and for Caremark’s executive officers other than its named executive officers: $2,980,000 in the aggregate. Neither Mr. Crawford nor Mr. Spalding is a participant in the plan.

         Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

         Mr. Crawford participates in Caremark’s Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and he became fully vested in all benefits payable under the plan in November of 2006. This plan entitles Mr. Crawford to a benefit equal to 60% of his “final average compensation” (defined as the average of his highest monthly base salary during any 36-month period during the 72 months preceding his termination) and becomes payable on a monthly basis on the first of the month following Mr. Crawford’s termination of employment with Caremark. The monthly payment amount is reduced by 1/96 for each full month that benefits commence prior to Mr. Crawford reaching the age of 60. At Mr. Crawford’s option, the benefits can be paid in the form of a joint and survivor annuity as specified in the plan or as a life annuity or six annual installments.

         The merger will constitute a change in control under the plan. Under the plan, upon a change in control, Caremark is required to establish an irrevocable trust and to fund such trust in an amount to ensure that the fair market value of the trust corpus, including any previous contributions made to the trust, equals the present value of the accrued benefits under the plan as of the effective date of the change in control. Mr. Crawford intends to resign his employment on completion of the merger and thereafter will serve as chairman of the board of directors of the combined company. Under the terms of the plan, his monthly payments will begin following his termination of employment and, due to the occurrence of the change in control, will not be subject to reduction despite the commencement of payments prior to Mr. Crawford reaching the age of 60.

         Survivor Benefit Agreement

         Mr. Crawford and Caremark have entered into a Survivor Benefit Agreement. Upon the termination of Mr. Crawford’s employment for any reason other than his death, Caremark is obligated to transfer to Mr. Crawford ownership of an insurance policy with a specified minimum death benefit at the time of such transfer equal to $17 million and a minimum cash value at the time of the transfer of $3,666,256 if the termination occurs on or before November 1, 2007 and $4,527,827 if the termination occurs after November 1, 2007. Upon completion of the transfer, Caremark’s obligation to pay a death benefit to Mr. Crawford’s beneficiaries under his employment agreement ceases. If Mr. Crawford recognizes taxable income for federal tax purposes at the time of the transfer of the insurance policy, Caremark is obligated to pay Mr. Crawford a tax gross-up amount equal to the amount of federal income taxes, including taxes attributable to payment of the gross-up amount.

         Special Retirement Plan

         The Special Retirement Plan is an unfunded, non-qualified benefit plan that will provide certain executive officers of Caremark with monthly benefits upon retirement, disability or a change in control of Caremark. Six of Caremark’s executive officers participate in the plan: Messrs. Clemens, Karro, Joyner, McLure, Mladenovic and Spalding. The benefit generally payable under the plan is equal to the product of (1) 2.5% of the average annual base salary paid to a participant over the 36-month period preceding his retirement date and (2) the participant’s years of service, up to a maximum of 20 years of service. The plan provides that a participant will continue to accrue years of service following completion of the merger but the plan remains subject to amendment or termination. Generally, to receive benefits under the plan, a participant would be required to be continuously employed by Caremark until the earlier of disability or reaching age 58 with 15 years of service. If, following the merger, the combined company (1) fails to expressly confirm that the participant will receive his accrued benefit under the plan within 60 days of the participant’s request for such confirmation or (2) terminates a participant’s employment within six months following

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    the completion of the merger, then the participant is deemed to have met the continuous employment requirement under the plan.

         Caremark Deferred Compensation Plan

         If, within six months of the completion of the merger, the combined company terminates the employment of a participant in the plan, such participant’s account would be payable automatically in one lump sum payment.

         Caremark Director Deferred Compensation Plan

         The Caremark Director Deferred Compensation Plan permits Caremark’s outside directors to defer their fees and offers a 15% premium on any fees that are deferred under the plan. The total deferred fees plus the premium is converted into a number of units, which are equal in value to shares of Caremark common stock. The participant’s account is paid as soon as practicable after the earlier to occur of (1) completion of a “change in control” (as defined in the plan) or (2) the cessation of a director’s status as an outside director on the Caremark board of directors. Although the merger will not qualify as a change of control under the terms of the plan, the account of each outside director of Caremark who will not continue as a member of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will be paid as soon as practicable on the completion of the merger.

         CareStock Employee Stock Purchase Plan

         Under the CareStock Employee Stock Purchase Plan, employees of Caremark and its subsidiaries are eligible to purchase Caremark common stock at a price equal to 85% of the closing price of Caremark common stock on the applicable purchase date. Each employee may purchase annually up to $25,000 of Caremark common stock under this plan. Typically, Caremark common stock is purchased under this plan on the last trading date of any ordinary pay period for employees of Caremark and its subsidiaries. Under the terms of the plan, the last trading date immediately preceding or coinciding with a “change in control” of Caremark will be a purchase date on which employees may purchase Caremark common stock under the plan. The completion of the merger will constitute a change in control under the terms of the CareStock Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

         Caremark Retention Program

         Caremark intends to adopt a limited retention program to help ensure the retention of key employees below the level of senior vice president following the completion of the merger. An aggregate amount not to exceed $10 million will be made available for awards under the retention program. Caremark’s named executive officers will not be entitled to participate in this retention program.

         Insurance and Indemnification

         The merger agreement provides that, following the merger, the combined company will, to the extent permitted by law, indemnify and hold harmless all past and present officers and directors of Caremark and its subsidiaries to the same extent such individuals are indemnified pursuant to Caremark’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws in effect as of the date of the merger agreement, or to the fullest extent permitted by law, in each case for acts and omissions occurring at or prior to the effective time of the merger. The combined company also will continue to maintain for a period of six years after the completion of the merger, policies of directors’ and officers’ liability insurance with respect to claims arising from acts or omissions occurring prior to the completion of the merger on terms with respect to coverage and amounts no less favorable than the terms of the directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by Caremark prior to the completion of the merger, but in no event will the combined company be required to pay in any one year an amount in excess of a specified percentage of the annual premiums paid by Caremark for such insurance in the last full fiscal year. If the annual premiums of such insurance coverage exceed such amount, the combined company will obtain a policy with at least the greatest coverage available for a cost not exceeding such amount.

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    Accounting Treatment

         The merger will be accounted for using the purchase method of accounting under U.S. GAAP. Under the purchase method of accounting, CVS will be considered the acquiror of Caremark for accounting purposes and the total purchase price will be allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Caremark based on their fair values as of the date of the completion of the merger and any excess of purchase price over those fair values will be recorded as goodwill. Reported financial condition and results of operations of CVS issued after completion of the merger will reflect Caremark’s balances and results after completion of the merger, but will not be restated retroactively to reflect the historical financial position or results of operations of Caremark. Following the completion of the merger, the earnings of the combined company will reflect purchase accounting adjustments, including increased amortization expense for acquired intangible assets.

    Board of Directors and Management of CVS/Caremark Following the Merger; Headquarters

         Prior to the effective time of the merger, CVS and Caremark will determine the size of the CVS/Caremark board of directors. At the effective time of the merger, the CVS/Caremark board of directors will consist of an equal number of directors designated by each of CVS and Caremark. The CVS/Caremark board of directors will have, at the effective time of the merger, an audit committee, a management planning and development committee, a nominating and corporate governance committee and an executive committee. At the effective time of the merger, the chairman of the audit committee will be designated by former Caremark directors that are members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and the chairman of each of the management, planning and development committee and nominating and corporate governance committee will be designated by former CVS directors that are members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors. The executive committee will consist of four members: E. Mac Crawford, Thomas M. Ryan, one member appointed by the former CVS directors and one member appointed by the former Caremark directors.

         As of the effective time of the merger, E. Mac Crawford will be the chairman of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and Thomas M. Ryan will be the chief executive officer of CVS/Caremark and a director of the combined company. In addition, as of the effective time of the merger, the senior management of the combined company will also include David B. Rickard as the chief financial officer of the combined company and Howard A. McLure as the president of its pharmacy services business.

         See “—Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 72 and “Interests of CVS Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 61 for a description of the material interests of executive officers and directors of Caremark and CVS, respectively, in the merger that are in addition to, or different than, their interests as stockholders. Additional information about the current directors and executive officers of CVS can be found in the “Corporate Governance and Related Matters–Director Nominations”, “Corporate Governance and Related Matters–Director Compensation”, “Corporate Governance and Related Matters–Share Ownership of Directors and Certain Executive Officers” and “Executive Compensation and Related Matters” in the definitive proxy statement for CVS’ 2006 Annual Meeting of stockholders filed with the SEC on March 24, 2006, which is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the current directors and executive officers of Caremark can be found in the “About the Meeting—Item 1: Election of Directors,” “General Information About the Company—Directors Continuing in Office,” “General Information About the Company—Executive Officers” and “General Information About the Company—Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers” in the definitive proxy statement for Caremark’s 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the SEC on April 7, 2006, which is incorporated by reference into this document. See “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140.

         Following completion of the merger, the combined company’s corporate headquarters will be located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. In addition, the headquarters of the combined company’s pharmacy services business will be located in Nashville, Tennessee and any decision to change the location of the headquarters of the pharmacy services business prior to the third anniversary of the completion of the merger will require the approval of three-quarters of the directors of the combined company.

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    Repurchases of Caremark Common Stock

         Caremark may, from time to time, after this document is first filed with the SEC and before the completion of the merger, as price and conditions warrant, repurchase shares of Caremark common stock pursuant to the share repurchase program which previously has been approved by the Caremark board of directors. The timing and nature of these share repurchases will depend on market conditions and will be subject to limitations imposed by, and compliance with, the merger agreement and applicable federal and state securities laws.

    Federal Securities Laws Consequences; Stock Transfer Restriction Agreements

         All shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that Caremark stockholders receive in the merger will be freely transferable, except for shares of CVS/Caremark common stock received by persons who are deemed to be “affiliates” of Caremark under the Securities Act and the related SEC rules and regulations, at the time of the Caremark stockholders’ meeting. These “affiliates” may resell their shares of CVS/Caremark common stock only in transactions permitted by Rule 145 under the Securities Act or as otherwise allowed under that Act. Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of Caremark for these purposes generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled by, or are under common control with Caremark and may include some officers, directors and principal stockholders of Caremark. The merger agreement requires Caremark to use commercially reasonable efforts to deliver or cause to be delivered to CVS on or before the effective time of the merger from affiliates of Caremark an executed letter agreement to the effect that those persons will not offer or sell or otherwise dispose of any shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issued to them in the merger in violation of the Securities Act or the related SEC rules and regulations.

         Under Rule 145, former Caremark stockholders who were affiliates of Caremark at the time of the Caremark special meeting and who are not affiliates of CVS/Caremark after completion of the merger, may sell their CVS/Caremark common stock at any time subject to the volume and manner of sale limitations of Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Further, so long as such former Caremark affiliates are not considered affiliates of CVS/Caremark following completion of the merger, and a period of at least one year has elapsed from completion of the merger, such former affiliates may sell their CVS/Caremark common stock without regard to the volume and manner of sale limitations of Rule 144 under the Securities Act so long as there is adequate current public information available about CVS/Caremark in accordance with Rule 144. After a period of two years has elapsed from the completion of the merger, and so long as such former affiliates are not affiliates of CVS/Caremark and have not been for at least three months prior to such sale, such former affiliates may freely sell their CVS/Caremark common stock. Former Caremark stockholders who become affiliates of CVS/Caremark after completion of the merger will still be subject to the volume and manner of sale limitations of Rule 144 under the Securities Act until each such stockholder is no longer an affiliate of CVS/Caremark.

         This document does not cover any resales of the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to be received by Caremark stockholders upon completion of the merger, and no person is authorized to make any use of this document in connection with a resale.

    No Appraisal Rights

         Stockholders of a corporation that is proposing to merge or consolidate with another entity are sometimes entitled to appraisal rights in connection with the proposed merger, depending on the circumstances. Appraisal rights confer on stockholders who oppose the merger and properly demand appraisal the right to receive the fair value for their shares as determined in a judicial appraisal proceeding, which may be different from what is being offered to them in the merger.

         Under Section 262 of Delaware General Corporation Law, appraisal rights are not available for shares of stock, such as Caremark common stock, which were, at the record date fixed to determine the stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote on the agreement of merger, either (1) listed on a national securities exchange such as the NYSE or (2) held of record by more than 2,000 holders and where the stockholders will receive shares of stock of another corporation, which shares of stock will be listed on a national securities exchange such as the NYSE. Accordingly, Caremark stockholders do not have appraisal rights in connection with the merger.

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         CVS stockholders also do not have appraisal rights in connection with the merger because CVS itself is not directly involved in the merger, but instead is conducting the merger through Twain MergerSub Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of CVS formed for the purpose of the merger.

         The foregoing discussion is not a complete statement of law pertaining to appraisal rights under Delaware law and is qualified in its entirety by reference to Delaware law.

    Caremark Warrants

         In connection with its acquisition of AdvancePCS in 2004, Caremark assumed warrants to purchase 86,000 shares of Caremark common stock at an exercise price per share equal to $6.93, which are referred to as the Caremark warrants. In the merger, all outstanding Caremark warrants will be assumed by CVS, and will entitle the holder to acquire shares of CVS/Caremark common stock on the same terms and conditions as in effect immediately before the effective time of the merger, except that each of the warrants will then be exercisable for that number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock equal to the number of shares of Caremark common stock previously subject to the corresponding Caremark warrant multiplied by 1.670 (rounded down to the nearest whole share) at an exercise price equal to the current exercise price of the corresponding Caremark warrant divided by 1.670 (rounded up to the nearest whole cent).

    Merger-Related Litigation

         In November 2006, the Iron Workers of Western Pennsylvania Pension Plan filed a purported class action lawsuit purportedly on behalf of Caremark’s stockholders in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee against Caremark and its directors. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the directors breached their fiduciary duties by entering into the proposed merger transaction with CVS. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, preliminary and permanent injunctive relief to prevent the proposed merger transaction, to direct the defendants to obtain a transaction which is in the best interests of Caremark stockholders, and to impose a constructive trust upon any benefits improperly received by the defendants. The Sheetmetal Workers Local 28 Pension Fund also filed a purported class action lawsuit in the Chancery Court of Davidson County, Tennessee against Caremark and its directors. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the directors breached their fiduciary duties in approving the proposed merger transaction. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, a declaration that the directors breached their fiduciary duties and injunctive relief preventing the proposed merger transaction.

         In addition to these recently filed lawsuits, a purported second amended shareholder derivative and class action complaint purportedly on behalf of Caremark’s stockholders was filed in November 2006 by the plaintiffs in the pending In Re: Caremark Rx, Inc. Stock Option Litigation in the Circuit Court for Davidson County, Tennessee. The purported second amended complaint includes purported class action allegations challenging the proposed merger transaction and adds CVS as a defendant. Among other things, the purported second amended complaint alleges that the Caremark directors approved the merger agreement with CVS to avoid personal liability in the pending derivative litigation relating to the alleged backdating of stock options. The purported second amended complaint also alleges that CVS aided and abetted the alleged wrongdoing by the directors of Caremark. The plaintiffs seek, among other things, a declaration that the directors breached their fiduciary duties, injunctive relief preventing the defendants from effectuating the proposed merger transaction, imposition of a constructive trust upon any illegal profits received by the defendants, and punitive damages.

         In December 2006, another alleged Caremark stockholder filed a purported class action lawsuit purportedly on behalf of Caremark’s stockholders relating to the proposed merger between Caremark and CVS in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. The suit is brought against Caremark, its directors, CVS, and CVS’ chief executive officer. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the Caremark directors breached their fiduciary duties by entering into the proposed merger transaction with CVS and that the CVS defendants aided and abetted such breaches of duty. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, preliminary and permanent injunctive relief to prevent the proposed merger transaction, to direct the defendants to obtain a transaction which is in the best interests of Caremark shareholders, and to impose a constructive trust upon any benefits improperly received by the defendants.

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         Caremark believes the claims made in these stockholder lawsuits lack merit and intends to defend them vigorously. CVS believes the allegations pertaining to CVS in the stockholder lawsuits are void of merit and intends to defend them vigorously.

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    MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER

         The following discussion summarizes the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger to holders of Caremark common stock and CVS common stock.

         This discussion addresses only those Caremark stockholders that hold their Caremark common stock as a capital asset and does not address all aspects of federal income taxation that may be relevant to a holder of Caremark common stock in light of that stockholder’s particular circumstances or to a stockholder subject to special rules, such as:

    • a stockholder that is not a citizen or resident of the United States;


    • a financial institution or insurance company;


    • a mutual fund;


    • a tax-exempt organization;


    • a dealer or broker in securities or foreign currencies;


    • a trader in securities that elects to apply a mark-to-market method of accounting;


    • a stockholder that holds Caremark common stock as part of a hedge, appreciated financial position, straddle, conversion, or other risk reduction transaction; or


    • a stockholder that acquired Caremark common stock pursuant to the exercise of options or similar derivative securities or otherwise as compensation.

         If a partnership holds Caremark common stock, the tax treatment of a partner in such partnership generally will depend on the status of the partners and the activities of the partnership. A partner in a partnership holding Caremark common stock should consult its tax advisor.

         The following discussion is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service. It is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable Treasury regulations, administrative interpretations and court decisions, each as in effect as of the date of this document and all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. The tax consequences under U.S. state and local and foreign laws and U.S. federal laws other than U.S. federal income tax laws are not addressed.

         Holders of Caremark common stock are strongly urged to consult their tax advisors as to the specific tax consequences to them of the merger, including the applicability and effect of U.S. federal, state and local and foreign income and other tax laws in light of their particular circumstances.

    General

         CVS and Caremark have structured the merger to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. On the date this registration statement becomes effective, CVS will have received a written opinion from Davis Polk & Wardwell, and Caremark will have received a written opinion from King & Spalding LLP, both to the effect that for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the merger will constitute a reorganization within the meaning of section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. It is a condition to the completion of the merger that Davis Polk & Wardwell and King & Spalding LLP confirm their respective opinions as of the closing date of the merger. Neither CVS nor Caremark intends to waive this condition. These opinions each rely on assumptions, including assumptions regarding the absence of changes in existing facts and law and the completion of the merger in the manner contemplated by the merger agreement, and representations and covenants made by CVS and Caremark, including those contained in certificates of officers of CVS and Caremark. The accuracy of those representations, covenants or assumptions may affect the conclusions set forth in these opinions, in which case the tax consequences of the merger could differ from those discussed here. Opinions of counsel neither bind the IRS nor preclude the IRS

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    from adopting a contrary position. No ruling has been or will be sought from the IRS on the tax consequences of the merger.

    U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences to Caremark Stockholders

         Subject to the qualifications and limitations set forth in “Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger—General” beginning on page 85, the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger will be as follows:

    • A holder of Caremark common stock will not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of that stockholder’s Caremark common stock for CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger, except that gain or loss will be recognized on the receipt of cash instead of a fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock;


    • If a holder of Caremark common stock receives cash instead of a fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock, the holder will be required to recognize gain or loss, measured by the difference between the amount of cash received and the portion of the tax basis of that holder’s Caremark common stock allocable to that fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock. This gain or loss will be a capital gain or loss and will be a long-term capital gain or loss if the holding period for the Caremark common stock exchanged for the fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock is more than one year at the completion of the merger;


    • A holder of Caremark common stock will have a tax basis in the CVS/Caremark common stock received in the merger equal to (1) the tax basis of the Caremark common stock surrendered by that holder in the merger, less (2) any tax basis of the Caremark common stock surrendered that is allocable to a fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock for which cash is received; and


    • The holding period for the CVS/Caremark common stock received in exchange for shares of Caremark common stock in the merger will include the holding period for the shares of Caremark common stock surrendered in the merger.

         In the case of a holder of Caremark common stock that holds shares of Caremark common stock with differing tax bases and/or holding periods, the preceding rules must be applied to each identifiable block of Caremark common stock.

         A holder of Caremark common stock may be subject to information reporting and backup withholding on any cash payments received instead of a fractional share of CVS/Caremark common stock, unless such holder provides proof of an applicable exemption or a correct taxpayer identification number, and otherwise complies with the applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. The amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules are not an additional tax and may be refunded, or credited against the holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is furnished.

         This discussion is intended to provide only a general summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger, and is not a complete analysis or description of all potential U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger. This discussion does not address tax consequences that may vary with, or are contingent on, individual circumstances. In addition, it does not address any non-income tax or any foreign, state or local tax consequences of the merger. Accordingly, Caremark strongly urges each holder of Caremark common stock to consult his or her tax advisor to determine the particular U.S. federal, state or local or foreign income or other tax consequences to that stockholder of the merger.

    U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences to CVS Stockholders

         There will be no U.S. federal income tax consequences to a holder of CVS common stock as a result of the merger.

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    REGULATORY AND OTHER APPROVALS REQUIRED FOR THE MERGER

         Under the merger agreement, each of CVS and Caremark has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable law to consummate the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including (1) preparing and filing as promptly as practicable with any governmental authority or other third party all documentation to effect all necessary filings, notices, petitions, statements, registrations, submissions of information, applications and other documents and (2) obtaining and maintaining all approvals, consents, waivers, licenses, orders, registrations, permits, authorizations, clearances and other confirmations required to be obtained from any governmental authority or other third party that are necessary, proper or advisable to consummate the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.

         Notwithstanding the foregoing, CVS, Caremark and their respective subsidiaries are not required:

    • to enter into any settlement, undertaking, consent decree, stipulation or agreement with any governmental authority in connection with the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, or


    • to divest or otherwise hold separate (including by establishing a trust or otherwise), or take any other action (or otherwise agree to do any of the foregoing) with respect to any of its subsidiaries or any of their respective affiliates’ businesses, assets or properties,

    which, in either case, would reasonably be expected to (1) materially and adversely diminish the benefits expected to be derived by CVS or Caremark as of November 1, 2006, the date of entering into the merger agreement, from the combination of CVS and Caremark via the merger (such combined business to be taken as a whole), in such a manner that CVS or Caremark would not have entered into the merger agreement in the face of such materially and adversely diminished benefits or (2) otherwise have a material adverse effect after the effective time on the combined company.

         A condition to CVS’ and Caremark’s respective obligations to consummate the merger is that any waiting period applicable to the merger under the HSR Act will have expired or been terminated. A further condition is that all required governmental regulatory consents and approvals will have been obtained except those that in the aggregate fall below the materiality standard described in the immediately preceding paragraph. See “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99.

    U.S. Antitrust Filing

         Under the HSR Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, certain transactions, including the merger, may not be consummated unless certain waiting period requirements have expired or been terminated. Each of CVS and Caremark filed a Pre-Merger Notification and Report Form pursuant to the HSR Act with the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission on November 20, 2006. Under the HSR Act, the merger may not be consummated until 30 days after the initial filing (unless early termination of this waiting period is granted) or, if the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission issues a request for additional information, 30 days after CVS and Caremark have “substantially complied” with such request for additional information (unless this period is shortened pursuant to a grant of earlier termination). At any time before the effective time of the merger, the Federal Trade Commission, the Justice Department or others could take action under the antitrust laws with respect to the merger, including seeking to enjoin the completion of the merger, to rescind the merger or to conditionally approve the merger upon the divestiture of assets of CVS or Caremark or to impose restrictions on the operations of the combined company post closing. There can be no assurance that the merger will not be challenged on antitrust grounds or, if such a challenge is made, that the challenge will not be successful. In addition, state antitrust authorities and private parties in certain circumstances may bring legal action under the antitrust laws seeking to enjoin the merger or seeking conditions to the completion of the merger. CVS and Caremark have been informed that Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia and the District of Columbia are reviewing the merger from an antitrust perspective. CVS and Caremark have and will continue to cooperate with

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    these states in their review. Under the merger agreement, subject to the conditions and limitations described above, CVS and Caremark have agreed to take all actions necessary to cause the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting periods under the HSR Act.

         As indicated in “Risk Factors”, beginning on page 25, CVS’ and Caremark’s businesses are subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations including, but not limited to, health care regulatory laws and regulations applicable to the following: the licensure and regulation of pharmacies and pharmacists and other health care professionals; Medicare, Medicaid and other government reimbursement programs; HIPAA; the storage, advertisement, promotion, sale and distribution of controlled substances and other products; and the like. Certain of these health care regulatory laws and regulations may require filings or approvals in connection with the completion of the merger; provided, however, that it is not expected that (i) any such filings or approvals would delay the merger or (ii) the failure to make any such filings or obtain any such approvals prior to the merger would have a material adverse effect on either of CVS or Caremark.

         Other than the filings described above, neither CVS nor Caremark is aware of any regulatory approvals required to be obtained, or waiting periods required to expire, to complete the merger. If CVS and Caremark discover that other approvals or waiting periods are necessary, CVS and Caremark will seek to obtain or comply with them in accordance with the merger agreement.

         To the extent that regulatory authorities require CVS and/or Caremark to divest assets, or impose other conditions or restrictions on the approval of the merger, that violate the conditions described above, the parties will assess such impact on the merger and either CVS or Caremark could decline to close under the merger agreement if such divestitures, conditions and restrictions would result in the failure of a condition to closing of the merger. CVS and Caremark can give no assurance that the required regulatory approvals will be obtained on terms that satisfy the conditions to the completion of the merger or within the time frame contemplated by CVS and Caremark. See “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99.

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    THE COMPANIES

    CVS

         CVS is one of America’s largest retail pharmacy chains, operating approximately 6,200 retail and specialty pharmacy stores in 43 states and the District of Columbia which is more stores than any other pharmacy retailer. CVS currently operates in 71 of the top 100 U.S. drugstore markets and holds the number one or number two market share in 50 of those markets. CVS’ operations are currently grouped into two businesses: Retail Pharmacy and PBM.

         As of September 30, 2006, CVS’ Retail Pharmacy business included 6,106 retail drugstores, of which 6,053 operated a pharmacy, and its online retail website, CVS.com®. The retail drugstores are located in 40 states and the District of Columbia operating under the CVS® or CVS/pharmacy® name. CVS/pharmacy® stores sell prescription drugs and a wide assortment of general merchandise, including over-the-counter drugs, beauty products and cosmetics, film and photo finishing services, seasonal merchandise, greeting cards and convenience foods, which is referred to as “front store” products. Existing stores generally range in size from approximately 8,000 to 18,000 square feet, although most new stores range in size from approximately 10,000 to 13,000 square feet and typically include a drive-thru pharmacy. CVS also provides retail healthcare services through its 99 MinuteClinic® healthcare clinics, located in 14 states, of which 82 are located within CVS retail drugstores.

         CVS’ PBM business provides a full range of prescription benefit management services to managed care and other organizations. These services include mail order pharmacy, specialty pharmacy, plan design and administration, formulary management and claims processing. The PBM business operates under the PharmaCare Management Services name. CVS’ specialty pharmacy focuses on supporting individuals that require complex and expensive drug therapies to treat conditions such as organ transplants, HIV/AIDS and genetic conditions such as infertility, multiple sclerosis and certain cancers. As of September 30, 2006, CVS operated 51 specialty pharmacies, operating under the PharmaCare Pharmacy® name, located in 21 states and the District of Columbia, and four mail order facilities. Specialty pharmacy stores average 2,000 square feet in size and sell prescription drugs and a limited assortment of front store items such as alternative medications, homeopathic remedies and vitamins.

         CVS’ principal executive offices are located at One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, RI 02895 and its telephone number is (401)765-1500.

         This document incorporates important business and financial information about CVS from other documents that are not included in or delivered with this document. For a list of the documents incorporated by reference in this document, see “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140.

    Caremark

         Caremark Rx, Inc. is a leading pharmaceutical services company in the United States. Caremark’s operations are conducted primarily through its subsidiaries, Caremark Inc. and CaremarkPCS (f/k/a AdvancePCS) and involve the design and administration of programs aimed at reducing the costs and improving the safety, effectiveness and convenience of prescription drug use. Caremark’s customers are primarily employers, insurance companies, unions, government employee groups, managed care organizations and other sponsors of health benefit plans and individuals throughout the United States. In addition, Caremark, through its SilverScript insurance subsidiary, is a national provider of drug benefits to eligible beneficiaries under the federal government’s Medicare Part D program.

         Caremark operates a national retail pharmacy network with over 60,000 participating pharmacies (including CVS’ pharmacy stores), 7 mail service pharmacies, 21 specialty mail service pharmacies and the industry’s only repackaging plant regulated by the Food & Drug Administration. Through its Accordant disease management offering, Caremark also provides disease management programs for 27 conditions. Twenty-one of these programs are accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

         Caremark’s executive offices are located at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, TN 37201, and its telephone number is (615) 743-6600.

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         This document incorporates important business and financial information about Caremark from other documents that are not included in or delivered with this document. For a list of the documents incorporated by reference into this document, see “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140.

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    THE MERGER AGREEMENT

         The following is a summary of the material terms of the merger agreement. This summary does not purport to describe all the terms of the merger agreement and is qualified by reference to the complete merger agreement which is attached as Annex A to this document and incorporated by reference. The rights and obligations of the parties are governed by the express terms and conditions of the merger agreement and not this summary or any other information contained in this document. All stockholders of CVS and Caremark are urged to read the merger agreement carefully and in its entirety.

    Explanatory Note Regarding Summary of Merger Agreement and Representations and Warranties in the Merger Agreement

         The summary of the terms of the merger agreement is intended to provide information about the terms of the merger. The terms and information in the merger agreement should not be relied on as disclosures about CVS or Caremark without consideration to the entirety of public disclosure by CVS and Caremark as set forth in all of their respective public reports with the SEC. The terms of the merger agreement (such as the representations and warranties) govern the contractual rights and relationships, and allocate risks, between the parties in relation to the merger. In particular, the representations and warranties made by the parties to each other in the merger agreement have been negotiated between the parties with the principal purpose of setting forth their respective rights with respect to their obligation to close the merger should events or circumstances change or be different from those stated in the representations and warranties. The representations and warranties may also be subject to a contractual standard of materiality different from those generally applicable to stockholders under federal securities laws. Matters may change from the state of affairs contemplated by the representations and warranties. CVS and Caremark will provide additional disclosure in their public reports to the extent that they are aware of the existence of any material facts that are required to be disclosed under federal securities laws and will update such disclosure as required by federal securities laws.

    Structure of the Merger

         The merger agreement provides for the merger of Twain MergerSub Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS that was formed for the purpose of the merger, with and into Caremark, with Caremark surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of CVS. Following the merger, CVS Corporation will be renamed CVS/Caremark Corporation. The merger will become effective when CVS and Caremark file a certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware (or at such later time as CVS and Caremark agree and specify in the certificate of merger). The time the merger becomes effective is referred to as the effective time of the merger. CVS and Caremark anticipate that the parties will make this filing as soon as practicable after the last of the conditions to the merger contained in the merger agreement has been satisfied or waived.

    Timing of Closing

         The closing will occur as soon as practicable, but in no event later than five business days after the day on which the last of the conditions set forth in the merger agreement has been satisfied or waived, unless CVS and Caremark agree to a different date. See “—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” below for a more complete description of the conditions that must be satisfied or waived before closing.

    Merger Consideration

         At the effective time of the merger, each issued and outstanding share of Caremark common stock will be converted into the right to receive 1.670 shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. Caremark stockholders will receive cash in lieu of any fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that would have otherwise been received in the merger. See “—Fractional Shares” beginning on page 92. If, between the date of the merger agreement and the effective time of the merger, there is a reclassification, recapitalization, stock split or combination, exchange or readjustment of shares, or any stock dividend with respect to the capital stock of CVS or Caremark, the exchange ratio will be appropriately adjusted.

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         CVS and Caremark expect that, upon completion of the merger, the Caremark stockholders immediately prior to the merger will own approximately 45.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis, and the CVS stockholders immediately prior to the merger will own approximately 54.5% of the outstanding common stock of the combined company on a fully diluted basis.

    Exchange of Shares

         Before the effective time of the merger, CVS and Caremark will appoint an exchange agent to handle the exchange of Caremark common stock in the merger for CVS/Caremark common stock and the payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock. Promptly after the effective time of the merger, the exchange agent will send to each holder of Caremark common stock a letter of transmittal for use in the exchange and instructions explaining how to surrender stock certificates or transfer uncertificated shares of Caremark common stock to the exchange agent. Holders of Caremark common stock that surrender their stock certificates or transfer their uncertificated shares to the exchange agent, together with a properly completed letter of transmittal, will receive the appropriate merger consideration. You should not return stock certificates with the enclosed proxy card.

         After the effective time of the merger, holders of unexchanged shares of Caremark common stock will not be entitled to receive any dividends or other distributions payable by CVS/Caremark after the closing until their shares of Caremark common stock are surrendered. However, once those shares are surrendered, CVS/Caremark will pay the holder, without interest, any dividends with a record date after the effective time of the merger that were previously paid to CVS/Caremark stockholders or are payable at the time the shares of Caremark common stock are surrendered.

    Fractional Shares

         CVS/Caremark will not issue fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger. All fractional shares of CVS/Caremark common stock that a holder of shares of Caremark common stock would otherwise be entitled to receive as a result of the merger will be aggregated. For any fractional share that results from such aggregation, the exchange agent will pay the holder an amount of cash, without interest, equal to the fraction of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock to which the Caremark stockholder would be entitled in the merger multiplied by the closing sale price of a share of CVS/Caremark common stock on the first trading day immediately following the effective time of the merger.

    Caremark Stock Options

         All Caremark options, whether or not exercisable and whether or not vested that are outstanding as of the effective time of the merger, will remain outstanding following the effective time of the merger and will be assumed by CVS as described below.

         At the effective time of the merger, each outstanding Caremark option will be converted into an option to acquire CVS/Caremark common stock on the same terms and conditions as the Caremark option before the effective time of the merger except that each option will allow the holder thereof to purchase a number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock equal to (1) the number of shares of Caremark common stock subject to the Caremark option prior to the effective time of the merger multiplied by (2) 1.670, rounded down to the nearest whole share. In addition, upon the effective time of the merger, each option of the combined company will have an exercise price per share equal to (1) the aggregate exercise price required to purchase all shares of Caremark common stock subject to the Caremark option before the completion of the merger divided by (2) the number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock subject to the option after completion of the merger, rounded up to the nearest whole cent.

         CVS has agreed to take all action necessary to implement the conversion described above, including the reservation, issuance and listing of a sufficient number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock for delivery upon

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    exercise of these substitute options. CVS is required to prepare and file a registration statement on an appropriate form, or a post-effective amendment to a previously filed registration statement, with respect to the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock subject to the above options and, where applicable, is required to use all commercially reasonable efforts to have the registration statement declared effective as soon as practicable after the effective time of the merger, to maintain its effectiveness and to maintain the current status of the prospectus contained in it for so long as the options remain outstanding.

         The merger constitutes a change in control under the terms of each of Caremark’s stock option plans and agreements, other than legacy AdvancePCS stock option plans, therefore, each Caremark option (other than options issued under legacy AdvancePCS stock option plans) will vest and become fully exercisable at the effective time of the merger.

    Listing of CVS/Caremark Stock

         CVS has agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to be issued in the merger to be approved for listing on the NYSE. The approval for listing of these shares on the NYSE is a condition to the obligations of CVS and Caremark to complete the merger, subject only to official notice of issuance. CVS/Caremark will continue to use the trading symbol “CVS” for the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issuable to the Caremark stockholders in the merger.

    CVS Governance and Related Matters

         CVS has agreed to take the necessary corporate action so that, at the effective time of the merger:

    • The CVS/Caremark board of directors will be comprised of a number of members (which will be an even number) to be agreed on by CVS and Caremark.


    • The CVS/Caremark board of directors will be comprised of an equal number of directors selected by each of CVS and Caremark. The directors of CVS/Caremark selected by CVS are referred to as the CVS- designated directors and the directors of CVS/Caremark selected by Caremark are referred to as the Caremark-designated directors.


    • Thomas M. Ryan, the current chairman, president and chief executive officer of CVS, will be the chief executive officer and a director of CVS/Caremark. The removal of Mr. Ryan as chief executive officer of the combined company prior to January 2010 will require approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors.


    • E. Mac Crawford, the current chairman, president and chief executive officer of Caremark, will serve as the chairman of the board of directors and a director of CVS/Caremark.


    • The Caremark-designated directors will select the chairman of the CVS/Caremark audit committee and the CVS-designated directors will select the chairman of each of the CVS/Caremark compensation committee and the nominating and corporate governance committee.


    • The executive committee of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will consist of four members: Thomas M. Ryan, E. Mac Crawford and one member appointed by CVS-designated directors and one member appointed by the Caremark-designated directors.

    Representations and Warranties

         The merger agreement contains a number of substantially reciprocal representations and warranties made by each of CVS and Caremark to the other. The most significant representations and warranties relate to:

    • due incorporation, good standing and qualification;


    • corporate authority to enter into the merger agreement and complete the merger;

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    • approval and adoption of the merger agreement and related matters by the board of directors;


    • required stockholder vote to approve the merger;


    • required consents and filings with government entities;


    • absence of any breach of organizational documents, laws and agreements as a result of the merger;


    • capitalization;


    • ownership of subsidiaries;


    • accuracy and sufficiency of documents filed with the SEC;


    • conformity of the financial statements with applicable accounting principles and that the financial statements fairly present, in all material respects, the consolidated financial positions of CVS and Caremark;


    • sufficiency of internal controls;


    • information supplied for use in this document;


    • absence of material changes or events;


    • absence of undisclosed liabilities;


    • compliance with laws and court orders;


    • regulatory compliance;


    • absence of material pending or threatened legal proceedings;


    • finder’s fees;


    • receipt of opinions from financial advisors;


    • tax matters and tax treatment;


    • employee benefits plans and labor matters;


    • environmental matters; and


    • inapplicability of Delaware takeover statutes to the merger.

         Significant portions of the representations and warranties of Caremark and CVS are qualified as to “materiality” or “material adverse effect”. Under the merger agreement, a material adverse effect means, when used in connection with CVS or Caremark, a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results of operation of CVS or Caremark and their respective subsidiaries, taken as a whole, except any such effect to the extent resulting from any of the following (but so long as, in the bullet points other than the first below, such effect does not have a materially disproportionate effect on CVS or Caremark, as the case may be, and their respective subsidiaries):

    • any change in the market price of the common stock of CVS or Caremark, as the case may be, after November 1, 2006 (excluding any underlying circumstance or effect that may have caused that change in market price);


    • changes, circumstances or conditions generally affecting any industry in which CVS or Caremark, as the case may be, or any of their subsidiaries participate;

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    • changes generally affecting the U.S. or global economic conditions or financial markets;


    • changes resulting from a change in U.S. GAAP;


    • changes resulting from any act of war or terrorism (or any escalation thereof); or


    • changes, facts, circumstances or conditions that can be shown to have been proximately caused by the announcement of the merger.

         The representations and warranties in the merger agreement do not survive the completion of the merger or the termination of the merger agreement.

    Certain Covenants

         CVS and Caremark have agreed to certain covenants in the merger agreement, including:

         No Solicitation. Each of CVS and Caremark has agreed that it and its subsidiaries and their respective officers, directors, employees and advisers will not:

    • solicit, initiate or take any action to knowingly facilitate or encourage the submission of any “acquisition proposal” of the type described below;


    • enter into or participate in any discussions or negotiations with or furnish any information relating to itself or any of its subsidiaries to or otherwise cooperate in any way with, or knowingly assist or encourage any third party seeking to make or who has made an acquisition proposal;


    • recommend to its stockholders an acquisition proposal or fail to make, withdraw or modify in a manner adverse to the other party its recommendation to its stockholders that, in the case of CVS stockholders, they approve the amendments of the CVS charter and the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger, or in the case of Caremark stockholders, they adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, which in each case is referred to as a change in recommendation;


    • grant any waiver or release under any standstill or similar agreement with respect to any class of equity securities of itself or any of its subsidiaries;


    • enter into any agreement in principle, letter of intent, term sheet or other similar instrument relating to an acquisition proposal; or


    • propose publicly or agree to do any of the foregoing related to any acquisition proposal.

         However, either party is permitted to engage in discussions or negotiations with, and provide information to, any person in response to an unsolicited bona fide acquisition proposal that is reasonably likely to lead to a superior proposal if:

    • its special meeting to vote on the applicable stockholder proposals required to be approved by its stockholders to complete the merger has not occurred;


    • its board of directors determines in good faith by a majority vote, after receiving the advice of outside legal counsel, that failing to take such action would be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties to stockholders; and


    • it receives from such person an executed confidentiality agreement with terms no less favorable than those contained in the existing confidentiality agreement between CVS and Caremark.

         CVS and Caremark must keep the other reasonably informed of the status and details of any acquisition proposal. Before changing its recommendation, CVS or Caremark, as applicable, must satisfy the conditions in the preceding paragraph and provide the other party with a period of five business days to adjust the terms of the merger agreement so as to enable it to proceed without changing its recommendation. Following such five business day

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    period, if the board of directors of CVS or Caremark, as applicable, remains committed to changing its recommendation in favor of a superior proposal (as defined below), such party will be permitted to enter into a conditional merger agreement with the third party making the superior proposal that will only become effective upon (1) termination of the merger agreement in accordance with its terms as described herein and (2) payment by the third party, on behalf of CVS or Caremark, as applicable, of the termination fee set forth in the merger agreement. See “Termination Fees” below for more details regarding the termination fee payable under the merger agreement. However, until the termination of the merger agreement in accordance with its terms, (1) in no event will the party entering into such conditional merger agreement make any SEC or other regulatory filings in connection with the transactions contemplated by such conditional merger agreement and (2) the party entering into the conditional merger agreement will otherwise remain subject to all of its obligations under the merger agreement, including those described above in this section and in “—Covenant to Recommend” and “—Reasonable Best Efforts Covenant” beginning on pages 96 and 97, respectively.

         An “acquisition proposal” is, with respect to either CVS or Caremark, any offer, proposal or inquiry relating to, or any third party indication of interest in, (1) any acquisition or purchase, direct or indirect, of 20% or more of the consolidated assets of that person and its subsidiaries or over 20% of any class of equity or voting securities of that person or any of its subsidiaries whose assets, individually or in the aggregate, constitute more than 20% of the consolidated assets of that person, (2) any tender offer (including a self-tender offer) or exchange offer that, if consummated, would result in such third party beneficially owning 20% or more of any class of equity or voting securities of that person or any of its subsidiaries whose assets, individually or in the aggregate, constitute more than 20% of the consolidated assets of that person or (3) a merger, consolidation, share exchange, business combination, sale of substantially all the assets, reorganization, recapitalization, liquidation, dissolution or other similar transaction involving that person or any of its subsidiaries whose assets, individually or in the aggregate, constitute more than 20% of the consolidated assets of that person.

         A “superior proposal” is a bona fide, unsolicited written acquisition proposal (which definition shall be read, for this purpose, without the word “inquiry”) for at least a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock of Caremark or CVS (as the case may be) on terms that the board of directors of such party determines in good faith by a majority vote, after consultation with its legal and financial advisors and taking into account such matters deemed relevant in good faith by such board of directors, including among other things, all the terms and conditions of the acquisition proposal, including any break-up fees, expense reimbursement provisions, conditions to completion and long-term strategic considerations, are more favorable from a financial point of view to the stockholders of such party than the merger and for which financing, if a cash transaction (whether in whole or in part), is then fully committed or reasonably determined to be available by the board of directors of that party.

         Each party has agreed to terminate any discussions or negotiations with any person that began before November 1, 2006.

         Covenant to Recommend. CVS has agreed to recommend the approval by CVS stockholders of (1) a proposal to be effective upon completion of the merger, to amend the CVS charter, to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion and to change the name of CVS Corporation to “CVS/Caremark Corporation” and (2) a proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger on the terms and conditions set forth in the merger agreement, and to call a meeting of its stockholders for these purposes. The Caremark board of directors has agreed to recommend the approval by Caremark stockholders of a proposal to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger, and has agreed to call a meeting of its stockholders for this purpose. Each party’s board of directors, however, can make a change in recommendation, including by approving, recommending or endorsing a potential superior proposal, if (1) it has not received the approval of its stockholders in connection with the merger, (2) it has received an unsolicited bona fide written acquisition proposal from a third party, (3) its board of directors has determined in good faith (after consultation with its outside legal counsel and financial advisors) that the acquisition proposal constitutes a superior proposal and (4) its board of directors, after consultation with outside legal counsel, determines in good faith that failing to take such action would be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties to stockholders. Unless Caremark has otherwise terminated the merger agreement, whether or not (1) the CVS board of directors has made a change in recommendation or (2) an acquisition proposal has been publicly proposed or announced or otherwise submitted to CVS or any of its advisors, the CVS proposals described above in this paragraph must be submitted to CVS

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    stockholders at a meeting of its stockholders called for this purpose. Unless CVS has otherwise terminated the merger agreement, whether or not (1) Caremark’s board of directors has made a change in recommendation or (2) an acquisition proposal has been publicly proposed or announced or otherwise submitted to Caremark or any of its advisors, the Caremark proposals described above in this paragraph must be submitted to Caremark stockholders at a meeting of its stockholders called for this purpose.

         Interim Operations of CVS and Caremark. Each of CVS and Caremark has undertaken a separate covenant that places restrictions on it and its subsidiaries until the later of either the effective time or the date the merger agreement is terminated. In general, CVS and its subsidiaries and Caremark and its subsidiaries are required to conduct their respective businesses in the ordinary course consistent with past practice and to use all commercially reasonable efforts to preserve intact their respective business organizations and relationships with third parties. The companies have also agreed to some specific restrictions which (subject to exceptions described in the merger agreement) are substantially, but not entirely, comparable, because, in a number of instances, an action is applicable to only one of the companies by nature. The most significant activities that each company has agreed not to do, and not to permit its subsidiaries to do, are as follows:

    • amend its organizational documents;


    • split, combine or reclassify its shares of capital stock or those of its subsidiaries;


    • declare dividends, except for regular quarterly cash dividends not in excess of $0.10 per share, in the case of Caremark common stock, and $0.03875 per share, in the case of CVS common stock;


    • issue, deliver or sell equity securities, options or other securities convertible into or exercisable for equity securities, except to a limited extent to employees or directors;


    • acquire or dispose of a material asset, except in the ordinary course or below certain dollar thresholds;


    • make any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other person;


    • create, incur or assume any indebtedness, other than in the ordinary course or under existing lines of credit;


    • enter into any agreement that limits or otherwise restricts in any material respect such party, or will restrict the combined company after the effective time of the merger;


    • grant or increase employee compensation or benefits, except for normal ordinary course increases consistent with past practice (but in no event including awards that will be enhanced or accelerated by the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement);


    • change its financial accounting or tax accounting policies; and


    • settle any legal proceedings that arise out of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.

         Reasonable Best Efforts Covenant. CVS and Caremark have agreed to use their respective reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws and regulations to complete the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including filing requisite documents with governmental entities or other third parties and obtaining and maintaining all necessary approvals, consents and authorizations. However, neither CVS nor Caremark is required to enter into a settlement or other agreement with any governmental entity in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement or divest or take any other action with respect to any of its businesses, assets or properties if the result would reasonably be expected to:

    • materially and adversely diminish the benefits expected to be derived by the parties on the date of the merger agreement from the combination of CVS and Caremark via the merger (such combined business to be taken as a whole), in such a manner that either CVS or Caremark would not have entered into the merger agreement in the face of such materially and adversely diminished benefits, or

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    • otherwise have a material adverse effect (but ignoring the exception for effects caused by the announcement of the merger in the definition of material adverse effect) after the effective time of the merger on CVS/Caremark and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         To the extent that regulatory authorities require CVS and/or Caremark to divest assets, or impose other conditions or restrictions on the approval of the merger, that violate the conditions described above, either CVS or Caremark could decline to close under the merger agreement as a result of a failure of the satisfaction of a closing condition to the merger.

         Certain Employee Benefits Matters. The merger agreement provides that CVS will honor all accrued and vested benefit obligations to and contractual rights of current and former employees of Caremark and CVS and their respective subsidiaries under their respective existing employee plans, to the extent accrued and vested as of the effective time of the merger. CVS and Caremark, acting in good faith, will cooperate in reviewing their existing employee plans with a view towards developing appropriate employee benefit and compensation plans, which are referred to as the new benefit plans, after the effective time of the merger, which among other things, (1) will treat similarly situated employees (regardless of whether they were former CVS employees or former Caremark employees) on a substantially equivalent basis, taking into account all relevant factors and (2) will not discriminate between its employees who, at the effective time of the merger, were CVS employees or Caremark employees. CVS has agreed to adopt the new benefit plans, subject to customary rights to subsequently amend or terminate the plans as CVS/Caremark deems appropriate.

         The new benefit plans will provide for the following:

    • eligible participants will receive service credit for purposes of eligibility, participation, vesting and levels of benefits for all periods of employment with Caremark or CVS or any of their respective subsidiaries before the effective time of the merger;


    • all pre-existing conditions or limitations under any new benefit plan which is a welfare plan will be waived to the extent waived under the corresponding plan in which the employee participated immediately before the effective time of the merger; and


    • credit will be given for the plan year in which the effective time of the merger occurs towards applicable deductibles and annual out-of-pocket limits for expenses incurred before the effective time of the merger.

         In addition, CVS will amend its employee stock purchase plan so that Caremark employees will have the right to make purchases under this plan.

         Please see “The Merger—Interests of CVS Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger,” beginning on page 61 and “The Merger—Interests of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors in the Merger” beginning on page 72 for additional information on employee benefits matters covered in the merger agreement.

         Indemnification and Insurance. CVS has agreed that:

    • it will indemnify former directors and officers of Caremark or its subsidiaries for liabilities from their acts or omissions in those capacities occurring at or before the effective time of the merger to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law or to the extent provided under Caremark’s charter and bylaws as in effect on November 1, 2006, subject, in each case, to any limitation imposed under applicable law; and


    • for six years after the effective time of the merger, it will provide officers’ and directors’ liability insurance covering acts or omissions occurring at or before the effective time of the merger by each officer or director of Caremark or its subsidiaries covered by Caremark’s current officers’ and directors’ liability insurance policy. This CVS/Caremark tail coverage must be no less favorable than the Caremark policy in effect on November 1, 2006, except that CVS/Caremark will only be obligated to pay up to an agreed percentage of the annual premium paid by Caremark for such insurance as of November 1, 2006.

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         Certain Other Covenants. The merger agreement contains additional mutual covenants, which include, among other things, agreements by each party to:

    • take actions to cause the amended bylaws, included as an exhibit to the merger agreement, to be adopted and effective as of the effective time of the merger (see “CVS Bylaws Amendments” beginning on page 113 for a summary of the material amendments to the CVS bylaws);


    • coordinate the declaration of dividends with the intention that holders of CVS common stock and holders of Caremark common stock do not receive two dividends or fail to receive one dividend, for any quarter with respect to those shares and with respect to the CVS/Caremark common stock issuable in respect of those shares pursuant to the merger; and


    • not take any action to jeopardize the intended tax treatment of the merger.

    Conditions to Completion of the Merger

         The obligations of each of CVS and Caremark to consummate the merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver at or before the effective time of the merger of the following mutual conditions:

    • approval by the CVS and Caremark stockholders of the proposals required to consummate the merger (as further described in this document);


    • absence of any law, rule, order, injunction or judgment prohibiting or preventing the completion of the merger;


    • expiration or termination of the HSR Act waiting period;


    • CVS’ registration statement on Form S-4, which includes this document, being effective and not subject to any SEC stop order;


    • approval for the listing on the NYSE of the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to be issued in the merger;


    • receipt of all required approvals of any governmental body, agency, official or authority, except those that would not reasonably be expected to (1) materially and adversely diminish the benefits expected to be derived by the parties on the date of the merger agreement from the combination of CVS and Caremark via the merger (the combined business to be taken as a whole), in such a manner that either CVS or Caremark would not have entered into the merger agreement in the face of such materially and adversely diminished benefits, or (2) otherwise have a material adverse effect after the effective time of the merger on CVS/Caremark and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole;


    • absence of any law, rule, order, injunction or judgment enacted or deemed applicable to the merger that would reasonably be expected to (1) materially and adversely diminish the benefits expected to be derived by the parties on the date of the merger agreement from the combination of CVS and Caremark via the merger (the combined business to be taken as a whole), in such a manner that either CVS or Caremark would not have entered into the merger agreement in the face of such materially and adversely diminished benefits, or (2) otherwise have a material adverse effect after the effective time of the merger on CVS/Caremark and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole;


    • completion of any actions necessary to cause the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws to be effective at the effective time of the merger and the CVS/Caremark board of directors to be composed as agreed to by CVS and Caremark;


    • receipt by Caremark and CVS of opinions of their respective counsel that the merger will qualify as a tax- free reorganization;

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    • accuracy as of the effective time of the merger of the representations and warranties made by the other party to the extent specified in the merger agreement; and


    • performance in all material respects by the other party of the obligations required to be performed by it at or prior to closing.

    Termination

         Right to Terminate. The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the effective time of the merger in any of the following ways:

         (a) by mutual written consent of CVS and Caremark;

         (b) by either CVS or Caremark if:

    • the merger has not been completed by November 1, 2007 (or May 1, 2008 if the reason for not closing by November 1, 2007 is that the waiting period applicable to the merger under the HSR Act has not expired or been terminated and this is the only reason for failure to complete the merger);


    • there is a permanent legal prohibition to completing the merger;


    • Caremark stockholders fail to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger at the Caremark special meeting;


    • CVS stockholders fail to approve the amendments to the CVS charter and the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger at the CVS special meeting; or


    • the other party has materially failed to perform an obligation under the merger agreement or has breached one or more representations or warranties that results in a failure of a condition to the other party’s obligations to complete the merger, which failure to perform or breach is incapable of being satisfied or corrected prior to November 1, 2007 (or May 1, 2008, as applicable);

         (c) by CVS, if:

    • the Caremark board of directors has made a change in recommendation; or


    • Caremark (or any officer, director, banker or counsel of Caremark) has willfully and materially breached its covenant not to solicit any acquisition proposal as described under “—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” or its covenant to use all commercially reasonable efforts to hold a meeting of its stockholders to vote on the merger agreement and merger;

         (d) by Caremark, if:

    • the CVS board of directors has made a change in recommendation; or


    • CVS (or any officer, director, banker or counsel of CVS) has willfully and materially breached its covenant not to solicit any acquisition proposed as described under “—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” or its covenant to use all commercially reasonable efforts to hold a meeting of its stockholders to vote on the proposals to amend the CVS charter and to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger.

         If the merger agreement is validly terminated, the agreement will become void without any liability on the part of any party unless the party is in willful breach of its obligations. However, the provisions of the merger agreement relating to termination fees and expenses will continue in effect notwithstanding termination of the merger agreement to the extent described below.

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    Termination Fees

         Termination Fee Payable by CVS. CVS has agreed to pay a fee of $675 million under any of the following circumstances:

     
  • the CVS board of directors makes a change in recommendation;
     
     
  • CVS (or any officer, director, banker or counsel of CVS) has willfully and materially breached its covenant not to solicit any acquisition proposal as described in “—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95;
     
     
  • CVS fails to use all commercially reasonable efforts to hold a stockholders’ meeting to vote on the proposals to amend the CVS charter and issue CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger; or
     
     
  • the merger is not consummated by November 1, 2007 (or, May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement) or CVS’ stockholders fail to approve the proposals to amend the CVS charter and the issue CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger, and in each case, the following two conditions are met:
     
       
  • a third party has made an acquisition proposal prior to the CVS stockholder meeting having occurred; and
     
       
  • within 12 months of the termination of the merger agreement, CVS (1) merges with or into or is acquired by a third party, (2) a third party acquires more than 50% of the total assets of CVS and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, (3) a third party acquires more than 50% of the outstanding shares of CVS common stock or (4) CVS or any of its subsidiaries enter into an agreement for any of the foregoing.

         Termination Fee Payable by Caremark. Caremark has agreed to pay a fee of $675 million in any of the following circumstances:

     
  • the Caremark board of directors makes a change in recommendation;
     
     
  • Caremark (or any officer, director, banker or counsel of Caremark) has willfully and materially breached its covenant not to solicit any acquisition proposal as described in “—Certain Covenants—No Solicitation” beginning on page 95;
     
     
  • Caremark fails to use all commercially reasonable efforts to hold a stockholders’ meeting to vote on the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger;
     
     
  • the merger is not consummated by November 1, 2007 (or May 1, 2008, if extended as permitted in the merger agreement) or Caremark’s stockholders fail to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger, and in each case, the following two conditions are met:
     
       
  • a third party has made an acquisition proposal prior to the Caremark stockholder meeting having occurred; and
     
       
  • within 12 months of the termination of the merger agreement, Caremark (1) merges with or into or is acquired by a third party, (2) a third party acquires more than 50% of the total assets of Caremark and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, (3) a third party acquires more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Caremark common stock or (4) Caremark or any of its subsidiaries enter into an agreement for any of the foregoing.

    Other Expenses

         Except as described above (and subject to an exception relating to the payment of (1) filing fees due in connection with filings required under the HSR Act or (2) fees and expenses incurred in respect of the printing,

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    filing and mailing of this document, each of which will be shared equally by the parties), all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the merger agreement, the merger and the other related transactions, will be paid by the party incurring such costs or expenses.

    Amendments; Waivers

         Any provision of the merger agreement may be amended or waived before the effective time of the merger if, but only if, the amendment or waiver is in writing and signed, in the case of an amendment, by each party to the merger agreement or, in the case of a waiver, by each party against whom the waiver is to be effective. However, after the stockholders of either CVS or Caremark have approved the applicable proposals set forth in this document, any amendment that requires stockholder approval may not be made without that approval.

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    THE CVS SPECIAL MEETING

         The CVS board of directors is using this document to solicit proxies from stockholders of CVS who hold shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock on the CVS record date for use at the special meeting of CVS stockholders. CVS is first mailing this proxy statement/prospectus and accompanying form of proxy to CVS stockholders on or about [•], 2007.

    Date, Time and Place

         The special meeting of CVS stockholders will be held at CVS’ corporate headquarters, One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895 at [•] a.m., Eastern Time, on [•], 2007.

    Purpose of the CVS Special Meeting

         At the CVS special meeting, CVS stockholders will be asked to consider and vote upon the following proposals:

    1. to approve the amendments of the CVS charter, effective upon completion of the merger, to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion shares to 3.2 billion shares and to change the name of CVS Corporation to “CVS/Caremark Corporation” as described in “CVS Charter Amendment” beginning on page 112;
     
    2. to approve the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders on the terms and subject to the conditions of the merger agreement as described in “The Merger Agreement—Structure of the Merger” beginning on page 91; and
     
    3. if submitted to a vote of the CVS stockholders, to approve any adjournment or postponement of the CVS special meeting to another time and/or place for the purpose of soliciting additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals if there are not sufficient votes to effect either of the foregoing proposals.

    Board Recommendations

         The CVS board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it, including the merger, are advisable and in the best interests of CVS and its stockholders and unanimously recommends that the CVS stockholders vote “FOR” the proposals to amend the CVS charter and to issue shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and “FOR” the proposal to approve the adjournment or postponement, including if necessary, in order to solicit additional proxies in favor of the foregoing proposals.

    CVS Record Date; Shares Entitled to Vote

         The CVS Board has fixed the close of business on [], 2007 as the record date, referred to as the CVS record date, for CVS stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the CVS special meeting of CVS stockholders or any adjournment or postponement of the CVS special meeting. The special meeting of CVS stockholders is referred to as the CVS special meeting.

         The only outstanding voting securities of CVS are the shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock. Only holders of record of the shares of CVS Common Stock and CVS ESOP preference stock on the CVS record date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the CVS special meeting. Under Delaware law and the CVS charter, each share of CVS common stock is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to CVS stockholders. Under the CVS charter, the holders of CVS ESOP preference stock are entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of holders of CVS common stock, voting together with the CVS common stock as a single class. Each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to the number of votes equal to the number of shares of CVS common stock into which such share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to be converted on the CVS record date, rounded up to the nearest tenth of a share, for the CVS special meeting (which is currently 4.6 votes, subject to adjustment in the case of certain dilutive events). Each participant in the CVS Plan instructs the trustee of the CVS Plan how to vote his or her shares of (i) CVS ESOP preference stock and (ii) CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan. Unallocated

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    shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan and shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock held in the CVS Plan with respect to which the trustee of the CVS Plan receives no timely voting instructions will be voted by the trustee of the CVS Plan in the same proportion as it votes all the shares as to which it has received timely voting instructions.

         On the CVS record date, there were [•] outstanding shares of CVS common stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting. On the CVS record date, there were [•] outstanding shares of CVS ESOP preference stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting, representing [•] votes in the aggregate, voting with the CVS common stock as a single class.

         Based on the number of shares of CVS ESOP preference stock and CVS common stock outstanding as of the CVS record date, holders of CVS ESOP preference stock will be entitled to [•] votes in the aggregate at the CVS special meeting, representing approximately [•]% of the voting power of the CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting as a single class, as of such date. See “Description of CVS Capital Stock—CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock” beginning on page 116.

         Shares of CVS common stock held by CVS as treasury shares and shares of CVS common stock held by its subsidiaries will not be entitled to vote.

         Votes are exercisable in person, through the Internet, by telephone or by properly executed and delivered proxy with respect to the CVS special meeting as described in “—Voting of Proxies” beginning on page 105.

    Quorum Requirement

         Under Delaware law and the CVS bylaws, a quorum of CVS stockholders at the special meeting is necessary to transact business at the special meeting of the CVS stockholders. The presence of holders representing at least a majority of the votes of all outstanding CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting, whether present in person or by properly executed and delivered proxy, will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the CVS special meeting. Broker non-votes and abstentions will not be counted for purposes of satisfying the applicable quorum requirement with respect to the proposal to issue shares of CVS/Caremark in the merger (Proposal 2, below). For purposes of that proposal only, the number of votes cast must represent a majority of the number of votes represented by all outstanding shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class.

         All shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock represented in person or by proxy at the CVS special meeting, except in the case of Proposal 2, including abstentions and broker non-votes (as defined below) will be treated as present for purposes of determining the presence or absence of a quorum for all matters for consideration at the CVS special meeting.

         Under NYSE rules, brokers who hold shares in street name for customers have the authority to vote on certain “routine” proposals when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. Under NYSE rules, such brokers are precluded from exercising their voting discretion with respect to the approval and adoption of non-routine matters, such as the merger, the amendments to the CVS charter and the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger and thus precluded from exercising their voting discretion with respect to the proposal to adjourn or postpone the CVS special meeting. Therefore, absent specific instructions from the beneficial owner of such shares, brokers are not empowered to vote such shares with respect to the approval of the proposals to amend the CVS charter, to issue shares of CVS/Caremark in the merger. By signing your proxy card and returning it to your broker without specific instruction as to any proposal, your shares represented by that proxy will be voted in favor of that proposal. Any shares you beneficially own not identified as represented by that proxy will be considered a broker non-vote.

    Stock Ownership of CVS Executive Officers and Directors

         On [•], the CVS record date, executive officers and directors of CVS and their affiliates beneficially owned and were entitled to vote [•] shares of CVS common stock and [•] shares of CVS ESOP preference stock (excluding

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    exercisable options). These shares represent approximately [•]% of the aggregate voting power of CVS shares entitled to vote at the special meeting.

    Votes Required to Approve CVS Proposals

         Each of the CVS proposals to be considered at the CVS special meeting requires the vote percentage described below. You may vote for or against any or all of the proposals submitted at the CVS special meeting or abstain from voting.

       Required Vote for CVS Charter Amendment (Proposal 1)

         The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes represented by the outstanding CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock entitled to vote at the CVS special meeting, voting together as a single class, is required to approve the amendments to the CVS charter. Consequently, an abstention from voting or a broker non-vote on Proposal 1 will have the effect of a vote against Proposal 1.

       Required Vote for Issuance of CVS/Caremark Common Stock in the Merger (Proposal 2)

         The approval of the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger requires the affirmative vote of holders of shares representing at least a majority of the votes represented by shares of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, casting votes at the CVS special meeting. Additionally, assuming a quorum is present, an abstention or a failure to vote, including broker non-votes, will have no effect in determining whether the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock in the merger will be approved.

       Required Vote for Adjournment or Postponement of the CVS Special Meeting (Proposal 3)

         The approval of any adjournment or postponement of the CVS special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes for each of the foregoing proposals requires the affirmative vote of holders of CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock, voting together as a single class, representing a majority of the voting power of such shares present in person or represented by proxy at the CVS special meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal.

         An abstention will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal. A broker non-vote will have no effect on the vote.

         Each of Proposal 1 and Proposal 2 are conditioned upon the other and the approval of each such proposal is a condition to the completion of the merger. Neither the issuance of CVS/Caremark common stock in connection with the merger nor the amendments of the CVS charter will take place or be effective unless both of these proposals are approved by the CVS stockholders and the merger is completed. Therefore, the completion of the merger cannot proceed without the approval of both Proposal 1 and Proposal 2.

         Independent inspectors count the votes on each proposal to be voted upon at the CVS special meeting. Your individual vote is kept confidential from CVS and Caremark, unless special circumstances exist. For example, a copy of your proxy card will be sent to CVS if you write comments on the card.

    Voting of Proxies

       By Mail

         A proxy card is enclosed for your use. To submit your proxy by mail, CVS asks that you complete and sign the accompanying proxy and, if you are a stockholder of record, return it to The Bank of New York as soon as possible in the enclosed postage-paid envelope or pursuant to the instructions set out in the proxy card. If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided to you by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder. When the accompanying proxy is returned properly executed, the shares of CVS common stock or

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    CVS ESOP preference stock represented by it will be voted at the CVS special meeting in accordance with the instructions contained in the proxy.

         If proxies are returned properly executed without indication as to how to vote, the CVS common stock and CVS ESOP preference stock represented by each such proxy will be considered to be voted in favor of all matters for consideration at the CVS special meeting as follows: 1) “FOR” the proposal to amend the CVS charter, 2) “FOR” the proposal to approve the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger and 3) “FOR” the proposal to adjourn or postpone the special meeting, including if necessary, to permit further solicitation of the proxies on the foregoing proposals.

         Your vote is important. Accordingly, please sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card whether or not you plan to attend the CVS special meeting in person.

       By Telephone

         If you are a stockholder of record, you may also submit your proxy by telephone by dialing the toll-free telephone number on your proxy card. Telephone voting is available 24 hours a day and will be accessible until 11:59 p.m. on [•], 2007. Easy-to-follow voice prompts allow you to submit your proxy and confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder for information on telephone voting. If you are located outside the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, see your proxy card or other materials for additional instructions. If you submit your proxy by telephone, you do not need to return your proxy card. If you hold shares through a broker or other custodian, please check the voting form used by that firm to see if it offers telephone voting.

       By Internet

         If you are a stockholder of record, you may also choose to submit your proxy on the Internet. The website for Internet voting is on your proxy card. Internet voting is available 24 hours a day, and will be accessible until 11:59 p.m. on [•], 2007 If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder for information on Internet voting. As with telephone voting, you will be given the opportunity to confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If you submit your proxy on the Internet, you do not need to return your proxy card. If you hold shares through a broker or other custodian, please check the voting form used by that firm to see if it offers Internet voting.

       Voting In Person

         If you wish to vote in person at the CVS special meeting, a ballot will be provided at the CVS special meeting. However, if your shares are held in the name of your bank, broker, custodian or other record holder, you must obtain a proxy, executed in your favor, from the holder of record to be able to vote at the meeting.

    Revocation of Proxies

         You have the power to revoke your proxy at any time before your proxy is voted at the CVS special meeting. If you grant a proxy in respect of your CVS shares and then attend the CVS special meeting in person, your attendance at the special meeting or at any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting will not automatically revoke your proxy. Your proxy can be revoked in one of four ways:

    • you can send a signed notice of revocation;


    • you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date (including, if applicable, a proxy by telephone or through the Internet);


    • you can revoke the proxy in accordance with the telephone or Internet voting procedures described in the proxy voting instructions attached to the proxy card; or

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    • you can attend the special meeting (or, if the special meeting is adjourned or postponed, attend the adjourned or postponed meeting) and vote in person which will automatically cancel any proxy previously given, but your attendance alone will not revoke any proxy previously given.

         If you choose either of the first two methods, you must submit your notice of revocation or new proxy to CVS’ Corporate Secretary no later than the beginning of the CVS special meeting or, if the special meeting is adjourned or postponed, before the adjourned or postponed meeting is actually held.

         If your shares are held in the name of a broker or nominee, you may change your vote by submitting new voting instructions to your broker or nominee. If you need assistance in changing or revoking your proxy, please contact Morrow & Co., Inc. at 470 West Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902, 800-245-1502.

    Solicitation of Proxies

         This solicitation is made on behalf of the CVS board of directors and CVS will pay the costs of soliciting and obtaining proxies, including the cost of reimbursing banks and brokers for forwarding proxy materials to their principals. Proxies may be solicited, without extra compensation, by CVS’ officers and employees by mail, telephone, fax, personal interviews or other methods of communication. CVS has engaged Morrow & Co., Inc. to assist it in the distribution and solicitation of proxies at a fee of [], plus expenses. CVS and Caremark will also reimburse brokers and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their expenses in sending these materials to you and getting your voting instructions.

         Do not send any stock certificates with your proxy cards.

    Householding

         Under SEC rules, a single set of annual reports and proxy statements may be sent to any household at which two or more CVS stockholders reside if they appear to be members of the same family. Each CVS stockholder continues to receive a separate proxy card. This procedure, referred to as householding, reduces the volume of duplicate information CVS stockholders receive and reduces mailing and printing expenses for CVS. Brokers with accountholders who are CVS stockholders may be householding CVS’ proxy materials. As indicated in the notice previously provided by these brokers to CVS stockholders, a single proxy statement will be delivered to multiple stockholders sharing an address unless contrary instructions have been received from an affected CVS stockholder. Once you have received notice from your broker that it will be householding communications to your address, householding will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. If, at any time, you no longer wish to participate in householding and would prefer to receive a separate proxy statement, please notify your broker. CVS stockholders who currently receive multiple copies of the proxy statement at their address and would like to request householding of their communications should contact their broker.

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    THE CAREMARK SPECIAL MEETING

         The Caremark board of directors is using this document to solicit proxies from the holders of shares of Caremark common stock on the Caremark record date for use at the special meeting of Caremark stockholders. Caremark is first mailing this proxy statement/prospectus and accompanying form of proxy to Caremark stockholders on or about [•], 2007.

    Date, Time and Place

         The special meeting of Caremark stockholders will be held at Caremark’s corporate headquarters at 211 Commerce Street, Suite 800, Nashville, Tennessee 37201 at [•] a.m., Central Time, on [•], 2007.

    Purpose of the Caremark Special Meeting

         At the Caremark special meeting, Caremark stockholders will be asked to:

    1. adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger; and
     
    2. if submitted to a vote of the Caremark stockholders, approve any adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting to another time and/or place for the purpose of soliciting additional proxies in favor of the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger.

    Board Recommendations

         The Caremark board of directors has unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by it, including the merger, are advisable and in the best interests of Caremark and the Caremark stockholders and unanimously recommends that the Caremark stockholders vote “FOR” the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger and “FOR” the proposal to approve any adjournment or postponement necessary in order to solicit additional proxies in favor of the adoption of the merger agreement and the approval of the merger.

    Caremark Record Date; Shares Entitled to Vote

         Only Caremark stockholders of record as of the close of business on [•], 2007, the Caremark record date for the Caremark special meeting, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Caremark special meeting or any adjournments or postponements of the Caremark special meeting.

         On the Caremark record date, there were [•] shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting. Caremark stockholders will have one vote for each share of Caremark common stock that they owned on the Caremark record date, exercisable in person, through the Internet, by telephone or by properly executed and delivered proxy with respect to the Caremark special meeting.

         Shares of Caremark common stock held by Caremark as treasury shares and shares of Caremark common stock held by its subsidiaries will not be entitled to vote.

    Quorum Requirement

         Under Delaware law and the Caremark bylaws, a quorum of Caremark stockholders at the special meeting is necessary to transact business at the special meeting of the Caremark stockholders. The presence of holders of at least a majority of Caremark common stock outstanding on the Caremark record date and entitled to vote, whether present in person or by properly executed and delivered proxy, will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Caremark special meeting.

         All shares of Caremark common stock represented at the Caremark special meeting but not voting, including abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as present for purposes of determining the presence or absence of a quorum for all matters for consideration at the Caremark special meeting.

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         Under NYSE rules, brokers who hold shares in street name for customers have the authority to vote on certain “routine” proposals when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. Under NYSE rules, such brokers are precluded from exercising their voting discretion with respect to the approval and adoption of non-routine matters such as the merger, and thus precluded from exercising their voting discretion with respect to the proposal to adjourn or postpone the Caremark special meeting. Therefore, absent specific instructions from the beneficial owner of such shares, brokers are not empowered to vote such shares with respect to the adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger. By signing your proxy card and returning it to your broker without specific instruction as to any proposal, your shares represented by that proxy will be voted in favor of that proposal. Any shares you beneficially own not identified as represented by that proxy will be considered a broker non-vote.

    Stock Ownership of Caremark Executive Officers and Directors

         On [•], 2007 the Caremark record date, executive officers and directors of Caremark and their affiliates owned and were entitled to vote [•] shares of Caremark common stock, or approximately [•]% of the aggregate voting power of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.

    Votes Required to Approve Caremark Proposals

       Required Vote for Adoption of Merger Agreement and Approval of Merger (Proposal 1)

         The affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote is required to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the merger. Consequently, an abstention from voting or a broker non-vote on Proposal 1 will have the effect of a vote against Proposal 1.

       Required Vote for Adjournment or Postponement of the Caremark Special Meeting (Proposal 2)

         The approval of any adjournment or postponement of the Caremark special meeting, including if necessary, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes for the foregoing proposal, requires the affirmative vote of holders of Caremark common stock representing at least a majority of shares entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting present in person or by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal.

         An abstention will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal. A broker non-vote will have no effect on the vote.

         Adoption of the merger agreement and approval of the merger by the requisite vote of the Caremark stockholders is required to complete the merger.

         Independent inspectors count the votes on each proposal to be voted upon at the Caremark special meeting. Your individual vote is kept confidential from CVS and Caremark, unless special circumstances exist. For example, a copy of your proxy card will be sent to Caremark if you write comments on the card.

    Voting of Proxies

       By Mail

         A proxy card is enclosed for your use. To submit your proxy by mail, Caremark asks that you complete and sign the accompanying proxy and, if you are a stockholder of record, return it to Caremark as soon as possible in the enclosed postage-paid envelope or pursuant to the instructions provided in the proxy card. If the envelope is missing, please see the instructions on your proxy card. If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided to you by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder. When the accompanying proxy is returned properly executed, the shares of Caremark common stock represented by it will be voted at the Caremark special meeting in accordance with the instructions contained in the proxy.

         If proxies are returned properly executed without indication as to how to vote, the Caremark common stock represented by each such proxy will be considered to be voted in favor of all matters for consideration at the Caremark special meeting as follows: (1) “FOR” the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and to approve the

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    merger and (2) “FOR” the proposal to adjourn or postpone the special meeting, including if necessary, to permit further solicitation of the proxies on the foregoing proposal.

         There are no voting agreements in place in respect of any outstanding shares of Caremark common stock entitled to vote at the Caremark special meeting.

         Your vote is important. Accordingly, please sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card whether or not you plan to attend the Caremark special meeting in person.

       By Telephone

         If you are a stockholder of record, you may also submit your proxy by telephone by dialing the toll-free telephone number on your proxy card. Telephone voting is available 24 hours a day and will be accessible until 11:59 p.m. on [•], 2007. Easy-to-follow voice prompts allow you to submit your proxy and confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder for information on telephone voting. If you are located outside the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, see your proxy card or other materials for additional instructions. If you submit your proxy by telephone you do not need to return your proxy card. If you hold shares through a broker or other custodian, please check the voting form used by that firm to see if it offers telephone or internet voting.

       By Internet

         If you are a stockholder of record, you may also choose to submit your proxy on the Internet. The website for Internet voting is on your proxy card. Internet voting is available 24 hours a day, and will be accessible until 11:59 p.m. on [•], 2007 If you are a beneficial owner, please refer to your proxy card or the information provided by your bank, broker, custodian or record holder for information on Internet voting. As with telephone voting, you will be given the opportunity to confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If you submit your proxy on the Internet, you do not need to return your proxy card. If you hold shares through a broker or other custodian, please check the voting form used by that firm to see if it offers Internet voting.

       Voting In Person

         If you wish to vote in person at the Caremark special meeting, a ballot will be provided at the Caremark special meeting. However, if your shares are held in the name of your bank, broker, custodian or other record holder, you must obtain a proxy, executed in your favor, from the holder of record to be able to vote at the meeting.

    Revocation of Proxies

         You have the power to revoke your proxy at any time before your proxy is voted at the Caremark special meeting. If you grant a proxy in respect of your Caremark shares and then attend the Caremark special meeting in person, your attendance at the special meeting or at any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting will not automatically revoke your proxy. Your proxy can be revoked in one of four ways:

    • you can send a signed notice of revocation;


    • you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date (including, if applicable, a proxy by telephone or through the Internet);


    • you can revoke the proxy in accordance with the telephone or Internet voting procedures described in the proxy voting instructions attached to the proxy card; or


    • you can attend the special meeting (or, if the special meeting is adjourned or postponed attend the adjourned or postponed meeting) and vote in person, which will automatically cancel any proxy previously given, or you may revoke your proxy in person, but your attendance alone will not revoke any proxy previously given.

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         If you choose either of the first two methods, you must submit your notice of revocation or new proxy to Caremark’s Corporate Secretary no later than the beginning of the Caremark special meeting or, if the special meeting is adjourned or postponed, before the adjourned or postponed meeting is actually held.

         If your shares are held in the name of a broker or nominee, you may change your vote by submitting new voting instructions to your broker or nominee. If you need assistance in changing or revoking your proxy, please contact Innisfree M&A Incorporated at 501 Madison Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10022, (877) 750-9498 (stockholders) or (212) 750-5833 (banks and brokers).

    Solicitation of Proxies

         This solicitation is made on behalf of the Caremark board of directors and Caremark will pay the costs of soliciting and obtaining proxies, including the cost of reimbursing banks and brokers for forwarding proxy materials to their principals. Proxies may be solicited, without extra compensation, by Caremark’s officers and employees by mail, telephone, fax, personal interviews or other methods of communication. Caremark has engaged Innisfree M&A Incorporated to assist it in the distribution and solicitation of proxies at a fee of [•], plus expenses. CVS and Caremark will also reimburse brokers and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their expenses in sending these materials to you and getting your vote.

         Do not send any stock certificates with your proxy cards. If the merger is approved by Caremark stockholders at the Caremark special meeting, and approval of the amendments of the CVS charter and the issuance of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to Caremark stockholders in the merger are each approved by CVS stockholders at the CVS special meeting, the exchange agent will mail transmittal forms with instructions for the surrender of stock certificates for shares of Caremark common stock as soon as practicable after completion of the merger.

    Householding

         Under SEC rules, a single set of annual reports and proxy statements may be sent to any household at which two or more Caremark stockholders reside if they appear to be members of the same family. Each Caremark stockholder continues to receive a separate proxy card. This procedure, referred to as householding, reduces the volume of duplicate information Caremark stockholders receive and reduces mailing and printing expenses for Caremark. Brokers with accountholders who are Caremark stockholders may be householding Caremark’s proxy materials. As indicated in the notice previously provided by these brokers to Caremark stockholders, a single proxy statement will be delivered to multiple stockholders sharing an address unless contrary instructions have been received from an affected Caremark stockholder. Once you have received notice from your broker that it will be householding communications to your address, householding will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. If, at any time, you no longer wish to participate in householding and would prefer to receive a separate proxy statement, please notify your broker. Caremark stockholders who currently receive multiple copies of the proxy statement at their address and would like to request householding of their communications should contact their broker.

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    CVS CHARTER AMENDMENT

         At the CVS special meeting, CVS stockholders will be asked to approve the amendments (described below) of CVS’ Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which is referred to as the CVS charter. The amendments will increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion shares to 3.2 billion shares and will change the name of CVS Corporation to CVS/Caremark Corporation. As a condition to the completion of the merger, the CVS stockholders must approve the amendments to the CVS charter described in this section. Annex B to this document contains the complete text of the proposed amendments to the CVS charter, which you are urged to read in its entirety. The CVS charter, as amended by the proposed amendments, is referred to as the amended CVS charter. If the merger is not completed for any reason, the amendments described in this section will be of no force and effect.

    Increase of Authorized Common Stock

         Under the CVS charter, one billion shares of common stock are currently authorized. On [•], 2007, [•] shares of CVS common stock were issued and outstanding (not counting shares held in CVS’ treasury).

         To complete the merger, CVS expects that approximately 712.3 million shares of CVS/Caremark common stock will be required to be issued to holders of shares of Caremark common stock based on the number of shares of Caremark common stock outstanding as of December 14, 2006 and that approximately 33.6 million shares of CVS/Caremark common stock will be required to be reserved for issuance under Caremark options and warrants.

         Accordingly, the shares of CVS common stock currently authorized under the CVS charter will not be sufficient to complete the merger. CVS therefore asks CVS stockholders to approve the proposed amendment, which will change Article FOURTH of the CVS charter to increase the number of authorized shares of CVS common stock from 1 billion to 3.2 billion shares.

         The increased number of authorized shares will give CVS sufficient shares to complete the merger. At present, CVS has no plans to issue shares for any other purpose. CVS believes, however, that it is desirable to have additional shares available for other corporate purposes that might arise in the future. For example, such shares could also be used for acquisitions or to raise capital. Under some circumstances, it is also possible to use unissued shares for anti-takeover purposes, but CVS has no present intention to take this action.

         Whether any future issuance of shares unrelated to the merger would be submitted for stockholder vote depends upon the nature of the issuance, legal and stock exchange requirements and the judgment of the board of directors of the combined company at the time.

    Name Change

         The merger agreement provides that, when the merger takes effect, CVS’ name will be changed from CVS Corporation to CVS/Caremark Corporation. The proposed amendment implements this name change by amending Article FIRST of CVS’ charter.

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    CVS BYLAWS AMENDMENT

         In connection with entering into the merger agreement, the CVS board of directors approved an amendment to CVS’ current bylaws, which is referred to as the CVS bylaws. The changes to the CVS bylaws will become effective no later than, but only upon, the effective time of the merger. If the merger is not completed for any reason, the amendments described in this section will be of no force and effect. The following discussion describes the material changes to the CVS bylaws and is qualified in its entirety by reference to Annex C, which contains the complete text of the CVS bylaws that will take effect on completion of the merger agreement. The amended and restated bylaws set forth in Annex C to this document is referred to as the amended CVS bylaws.

    Corporate Governance

         Board Composition. The amended CVS bylaws will provide that at the effective time of the merger the CVS/Caremark board of directors will be comprised of a number of directors to be agreed on by CVS and Caremark, with an equal number of directors to be designated by each of Caremark and CVS.

         Each of the directors on the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by CVS, who are referred to as the CVS-designated directors, and each of the directors on the CVS/Caremark board of directors designated by Caremark, who are referred to as Caremark-designated directors, will hold office until the first annual meeting of CVS/Caremark stockholders after the effective time of the merger, which is referred to as the first annual meeting. Before the first annual meeting, a CVS-designated director may only be removed by a majority vote of the other CVS-designated directors and any vacancy on the CVS/Caremark board of directors resulting from the death, removal or resignation of a CVS-designated director may only be filled by the remaining CVS-designated directors. Similarly, before the first annual meeting, a Caremark-designated director may only be removed by a majority vote of the other Caremark-designated directors, and any vacancy on the CVS/Caremark board of directors resulting from the death, removal or resignation of a Caremark-designated director may only be filled by the remaining Caremark-designated directors.

         Committee Composition. The amended CVS/Caremark bylaws also provide that at the effective time of the merger, the chairman of the CVS/Caremark audit committee will be designated by the Caremark-designated directors, and the chairman of each of the CVS/Caremark management, planning and development committee and nominating and corporate governance committee will be designated by the CVS-designated directors. In addition, as of the effective time of the merger, the executive committee of CVS/Caremark’s board of directors will consist of Thomas M. Ryan, E. Mac Crawford, one member appointed by the CVS-designated directors and one member appointed by the Caremark-designated directors.

         Commencing with the first annual meeting, the composition of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and the composition of the aforementioned committees will be determined by normal process as set forth in the amended CVS bylaws.

    Chairman of the Board

         The amended CVS bylaws also provide that, as of the effective time of the merger, E. Mac Crawford, the current chairman, president and chief executive officer of Caremark, will be the chairman of the CVS/Caremark board of directors. As long as Mr. Crawford is the chairman of the CVS/Caremark board of directors, the CVS/Caremark board of directors is prohibited from appointing a co-chairman.

    Chief Executive Officer

         The amended CVS bylaws also provide that, as of the effective time of the merger, Thomas M. Ryan will be the chief executive officer of CVS/Caremark. The amended CVS bylaws further provide that any removal of Thomas M. Ryan as chief executive officer of CVS/Caremark before January 2010 will require the approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors.

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    Headquarters

         The amended CVS bylaws also provide that, as of the effective time of the merger, the headquarters of CVS/Caremark’s pharmacy services business will be located in Nashville, Tennessee. Any decision by the CVS/Caremark board of directors to change the headquarters of the pharmacy services business of the combined company prior to the third anniversary of the effective time of the merger will require the approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors.

    Other Changes to Bylaws

         Board Quorum. Under the amended CVS bylaws, a majority of the directors on the CVS/Caremark board of directors will constitute a quorum of directors for the transaction of business. The current CVS bylaws define a quorum as one-third of the total number of the directors on the CVS board of directors.

         Corporate Name Change. The amended CVS bylaws also provide that any change in the name of the combined company from “CVS/Caremark Corporation” will require the approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors.

    Amendments

         Under the amended CVS bylaws, the approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors will be required in order to amend the amended CVS bylaws in a way that will change any of the following:

    • the provisions described under “—Corporate Governance” or “—Headquarters” above;


    • the provision relating to the removal of Thomas M. Ryan as chief executive officer of CVS/Caremark described under “—Chief Executive Officer” above; or


    • the provision restricting any future name change of CVS/Caremark described under “—Other Changes to Bylaws—Corporate Name Change” above.

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    DESCRIPTION OF CVS CAPITAL STOCK

         The following summary of the material terms of the capital stock of CVS is not intended to be a complete summary of all the rights and preferences of CVS’ capital stock. CVS and Caremark urge you to read the CVS charter, the CVS bylaws, the amended CVS charter and the amended CVS bylaws in their entirety, and refer to the applicable provisions of Delaware law, for a complete description of the rights and preferences of CVS’ capital stock. Copies of the CVS charter and CVS bylaws will be sent to holders of shares of CVS common stock, CVS ESOP preference stock or Caremark common stock upon request. See “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140. The proposed amendments of the CVS charter are described in “CVS Charter Amendment” beginning on page 112 and the full text of the amendment of the CVS charter is attached as Annex B to this document. The proposed amended CVS bylaws are described in “CVS Bylaws Amendment” beginning on page 113 and the full text of the amended CVS bylaws is attached as Annex C to this document.

    Authorized Capital Stock

         Before the Merger. Under the CVS charter, CVS’ authorized capital stock consists of one billion shares of CVS common stock, $0.01 par value, 120,619 shares of cumulative preferred stock, $0.01 par value, and 50 million shares of preference stock, $1.00 par value. The CVS cumulative preferred stock and CVS preference stock are sometimes referred to as CVS preferred stock. At [•], 2007, the CVS record date, there were issued and outstanding:

    • [•] shares of CVS common stock (not counting shares held in CVS’ treasury);


    • employee stock options to purchase an aggregate of approximately [•] shares of CVS common stock; and


    • [•] shares of CVS ESOP preference stock.

         After the Merger. If the merger is completed, the CVS charter will be amended to increase the authorized number of shares of CVS/Caremark common stock to 3.2 billion. See “CVS Charter Amendment” beginning on page 112.

    CVS Common Stock

         CVS Common Stock Outstanding. The outstanding shares of CVS common stock are, and the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issued pursuant to the merger will be, duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.

         Voting Rights. Each holder of a share of CVS common stock is entitled to one vote for each share held of record on the applicable record date on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. See “Comparison of Stockholder Rights” beginning on page 118 for additional information on CVS voting rights.

         Dividend Rights. Subject to any preferential dividend rights granted to the holders of any shares of CVS preferred stock that may at the time be outstanding, holders of shares of CVS common stock are entitled to receive such dividends as may be declared from time to time by the CVS board of directors out of funds legally available therefor. Under the CVS charter, no dividends may be declared, paid, or set aside for payment on shares of CVS common stock unless full cumulative dividends are paid on the outstanding CVS ESOP preference stock and any other CVS preferred stock issued and outstanding at such time that is designated to have such dividend preference.

         Rights Upon Liquidation. In the event of liquidation, holders of shares of CVS common stock are entitled to share pro rata in all remaining assets available for distribution to stockholders after payment or providing for CVS’ liabilities and the liquidation preference of the outstanding CVS ESOP preference stock and any other CVS preferred stock issued and outstanding at such time. See “—CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock—Rights Upon Liquidation” beginning on page 116 for a description of the liquidation preference of CVS ESOP preference stock.

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         Preemptive Rights. Holders of shares of CVS common stock have no preemptive right to purchase, subscribe for or otherwise acquire any unissued or treasury shares or other securities.

    CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock

         Outstanding CVS Preferred Stock. As of [], 2007, the CVS record date, approximately [] shares of CVS Series One Preference Stock, which is referred to as CVS ESOP preference stock, were issued and outstanding. No other shares of CVS preferred stock are issued or outstanding.

         Voting Rights. Each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of CVS common stock, voting together as a single class with the holders of CVS common stock. Each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to the number of votes equal to the number of shares of CVS common stock into which such share of CVS ESOP preference stock could be converted on the record date, rounded up to the nearest tenth of a share, for the applicable meeting. See “—Redemption at the Option of CVS and Under Certain Circumstances and Conversion Rights of Holders” below for the current conversion rate.

         Dividend Rights. Pursuant to the applicable provisions of the CVS charter, holders of CVS ESOP preference stock are entitled to receive when, as and if declared by the CVS board of directors, out of funds legally available for payment, cash dividends at the rate per annum equal to the greater of (x) the result of a formula based on historical CVS common stock dividend payments and the number of shares of CVS common stock into which CVS ESOP preference stock may be converted on the dividend record date and (y) $3.90. Dividends are cumulative without interest. In the event that full cumulative dividends on the CVS ESOP preference stock have not been declared and paid or set apart for payment when due, no dividends may be paid or distributions made on, and no payment may be made on account of purchase, redemption or other retirement of, CVS common stock or any other class of stock ranking junior to CVS ESOP preference stock until full cumulative dividends on the CVS ESOP preference stock have been paid or declared and provided for.

         Rights Upon Liquidation. Under the CVS charter, holders of CVS ESOP preference stock are entitled to liquidating distributions in the amount of $53.45 per share, plus an amount equal to all accrued and unpaid dividends on such shares to the date fixed for such distribution, before any amount will be paid or distributed to holders of common stock. Holders of CVS ESOP preference stock are not entitled to any distributions upon liquidation in excess of this amount.

         Redemption at the Option of CVS and Under Certain Circumstances and Conversion Rights of Holders. Shares of CVS ESOP preference stock may be redeemed at the option of CVS, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, out of funds legally available therefor, and under certain limited circumstances must be redeemed, at $53.45 per share plus an amount equal to accrued and unpaid dividends, if any, to the redemption date. Shares of CVS ESOP preference stock may be converted into CVS common stock at the option of holders at any time before the redemption date for such CVS ESOP preference stock into the number of shares of CVS common stock determined by dividing $53.45 for each share converted by the then-effective conversion price per share of common stock. Currently, one share of CVS ESOP preference stock may be converted into approximately 4.6 shares of CVS common stock (subject to adjustment in the case of certain dilutive events).

         Preemptive Rights. Holders of CVS ESOP preference stock have no preemptive rights to purchase, subscribe for or otherwise acquire any unissued or treasury shares or other securities.

         Blank Check Preferred Stock. Under the CVS charter, the CVS board of directors has the authority, without further stockholder approval but subject to certain limitations set forth in the CVS charter, to create one or more series of CVS preferred stock, to issue shares of CVS preferred stock in such series up to the maximum number of shares of the relevant class of CVS preferred stock authorized, and to determine the preferences, rights, privileges and restrictions of any series, including the dividend rights, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption, liquidating preferences, the number of shares constituting any such series and the designation of such series. Pursuant to this authority, the CVS board of directors could create and issue a series of preferred stock with rights, privileges or restrictions, and adopt a stockholder rights plan, having the effect of discriminating against an existing or prospective holder of such securities as a result of such security holder beneficially owning or commencing a tender

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    offer for a substantial amount of CVS common stock. One of the effects of authorized but unissued and unreserved shares of capital stock may be to render more difficult or discourage an attempt by a potential acquiror to obtain control of CVS by means of a merger, tender offer, proxy contest or otherwise, and thereby protect the continuity of CVS’ management. The issuance of such shares of capital stock may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of CVS without any further action by the stockholders of CVS. CVS has no present intention to adopt a stockholder rights plan, but could do so without stockholder approval at any future time.

    Transfer Agent and Registrar

    The Bank of New York is the transfer agent and registrar for the shares of CVS common stock.

    Stock Exchange Listing; Delisting and Deregistration of Caremark Common Stock

         It is a condition to the merger that the shares of CVS/Caremark common stock issuable in the merger be approved for listing on the NYSE on or before the effective time of the merger, subject to official notice of issuance. If the merger is completed, shares of Caremark common stock will cease to be listed on the NYSE.

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    COMPARISON OF STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS

         CVS and Caremark are both incorporated under Delaware law. Any differences, therefore, in the rights of CVS stockholders and Caremark stockholders arise primarily from differences in their respective certificates of incorporation and bylaws. Upon completion of the merger, the certificate of incorporation and bylaws of CVS/Caremark will be identical in all respects to the CVS charter and CVS bylaws after giving effect to the proposed CVS charter amendments and CVS bylaw amendments contemplated by the merger agreement and described in “CVS Charter Amendment” and “CVS Bylaws Amendment” beginning on pages 112 and 113, respectively. Consequently, after the effective time of the merger, the rights of the former Caremark stockholders will be determined by reference to the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws. The following table compares the material differences between the current rights of Caremark stockholders under the Caremark certificate of incorporation and bylaws, which are referred to as the Caremark charter and Caremark bylaws, respectively, and the current rights of CVS stockholders under the CVS charter and CVS bylaws, as well as the rights that those stockholders will have as CVS/Caremark stockholders under the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws following the completion of the merger.

         Annexes B and C of this document contain the complete text of the proposed amendments of the CVS charter and the complete text of the amended CVS bylaws, respectively, that will, in each case, take effect as of the effective time of the merger. Copies of the CVS charter, the CVS bylaws, the Caremark charter and the Caremark bylaws will be sent to holders of CVS common stock, CVS ESOP preference stock or Caremark common stock upon request. See “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 140. Because this summary does not provide a complete description of these documents, CVS and Caremark urge you to read each of their charters and bylaws as well as the amended CVS charter and the amended CVS bylaws in their entirety.






        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





    Corporate
    Governance
     

    Before the merger. The rights of Caremark stockholders are currently governed by Delaware law and the Caremark charter and the Caremark bylaws.

    After the merger. Upon completion of the merger, the rights of Caremark stockholders who become CVS/Caremark stockholders in the merger will be governed by Delaware law, the amended CVS charter and the amended CVS bylaws.

    Before the merger. The rights of CVS stockholders are currently governed by Delaware law and the CVS charter and the CVS bylaws.

    After the merger. Upon completion of the merger, the rights of CVS/Caremark stockholders will be governed by Delaware law, the amended CVS charter and the amended CVS bylaws.






    Authorized Capital   The authorized capital stock of Caremark is 700,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.001 par value, 500,000 shares of Series C junior participating preferred stock, $0.001 par value, and 9,500,000 shares of other preferred stock, $0.001 par value. The authorized capital stock of CVS is set forth under “Description of CVS Capital Stock—Authorized Capital Stock” beginning on page 115.





    Number of Directors   The Caremark bylaws provide that the number of directors will be not less than nine and not more than 18. The Caremark board of directors currently consists of 11 directors.

    The CVS charter and CVS bylaws provide, and the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will provide, that the number of directors will not be less than three nor more than 18, as determined by action of the CVS board of directors.

    Before the merger. The CVS board of directors currently consists of 10 directors.






           

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        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





          After the merger. The amended CVS bylaws will provide that as of the effective time of the merger the CVS/Caremark board of directors will be composed of [•] directors. See “CVS Bylaws Amendment—Corporate Governance” beginning on page 113 for a description of the composition of the CVS/Caremark board of directors as of the effective time of the merger.





    Classification of
    Board of Directors
      The Caremark charter and Caremark bylaws provide for the division of the Caremark board of directors into three classes with staggered three-year terms, with each class to consist of as near to one- third of the total number of directors as possible. If the number of directors is changed, any increase or decrease will be apportioned among the three classes so as to maintain the number of directors in each class as nearly equal as possible. CVS does not have, and CVS/Caremark, will not have upon completion of the merger, a classified board of directors.





    Removal of Directors   Under Delaware law, where there is a classified board of directors, any director may be removed only for cause, unless the corporation’s certificate of incorporation provides otherwise. The Caremark charter provides that a director may be removed from office for cause only and, subject to such removal, death, resignation, retirement or disqualification, will hold office until the annual meeting of Caremark’s stockholders for the year in which his term expires and until his successor is elected and qualified. As described below under “—Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation”, the Caremark charter further provides that no alteration, amendment or repeal of the foregoing provision will be effective to permit any director to be removed without cause unless the alteration, amendment or repeal has been approved by the holders of all shares of stock entitled to vote thereon. Where a corporation does not have a classified board of directors, Delaware law provides that unless the corporation’s certificate of incorporation provides otherwise, any director or the entire board of directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of the votes then entitled to vote on the election of directors. The CVS charter does not contain, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will not contain, a provision with respect to the removal of directors. However, the amended CVS bylaws provide that prior to the first annual meeting of the combined company, a CVS-designated director may only be removed by a majority of the other CVS-designated directors and a Caremark-designated director may only be removed by a majority of the other Caremark-designated directors. See “CVS Bylaws Amendment—Corporate Governance” beginning of page 113. After the first anniversary of the consummation of the merger, the default Delaware law provision described above will apply to the removal of directors.





    Vacancies on the
    Board of Directors
      The Caremark charter provides that vacancies and newly created directorships The CVS bylaws provide, and the amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the





           

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        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





        resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by a vote of a majority of the directors, and any vacancies on the board of directors resulting from death, resignation, removal or other cause shall only be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of directors, or by a sole remaining director. Any director chosen in accordance with the preceding sentence will hold office for the remainder of the full term of the director whose vacancy is so filled and until such director’s successor has been duly elected and qualified. merger will provide, that in general a vacancy occurring on the board of directors between annual meetings, including any vacancy created by an increase in the number of directors, is to be filled by the vote of a majority of remaining directors, even though less than a quorum. However, the amended CVS bylaws provide that until the first combined company annual meeting, any vacancy on the board of directors related to a CVS-designated director or a Caremark-designated director shall be filled by a vote of the majority of remaining CVS-designated directors or Caremark-designated directors, respectively. See “CVS Bylaws Amendment—Corporate Governance” beginning on page 113. In accordance with Delaware law, a director chosen in this manner will hold office until such director’s successor is elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier resignation or removal.





    Board Quorum   The Caremark bylaws provide that a majority of the directors will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

    Before the merger. The CVS bylaws provide that one-third of the total number of directors will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but if at any meeting of the board of directors there is less than a quorum present, the majority of those present may adjourn the meeting from time to time.

    After the merger. The amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will contain the same provision as described above, except that a majority (as opposed to one-third) of the total number of directors will constitute a quorum.






    Stockholder Quorum   The Caremark bylaws provide that the presence in person or by proxy at a meeting of the holders of shares representing a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat constitutes a quorum. The CVS bylaws provide, and the amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will provide, that the presence in person or by proxy at a meeting of the holders of a majority of the shares entitled to vote will constitute a quorum for all purposes, unless the representation of a different number is required by law.





           

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        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





    Stockholder Action by
    Written Consent
      The Caremark charter provides that Caremark stockholders may not take any action by written consent without a meeting, except under limited circumstances. The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the stockholders may be taken without a meeting if the holders of all outstanding stock entitled to vote thereon provide their written consent.





    Special Meetings of
    Stockholders
      Under Delaware law, a special meeting of stockholders may be called by the board of directors or by any other person authorized to do so in the corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws. The Caremark bylaws provide that special meetings of the stockholders may be called by Caremark’s chief executive officer and must be called by Caremark’s chief executive officer or secretary at the request in writing of (i) a majority of the Caremark board of directors or (ii) Caremark stockholders owning a majority of Caremark stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. The business to be transacted at a Caremark special meeting of stockholders must be limited to the purposes stated in the notice of meeting. Under Delaware law, a special meeting of stockholders may be called by the board of directors or by any other person authorized to do so in the corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws. The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that special meetings of stockholders may be called by the board of directors, the chairman of the board or the president and may not be called by any other person, other than holders of preferred stock under limited circumstances. Under Delaware law, the written notice of the special meeting must set forth the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called.





    Stockholder
    Proposals
      The Caremark bylaws provide that a Caremark stockholder wishing to bring business before the annual Caremark stockholders’ meeting must provide proper and timely written notice to Caremark’s secretary. To be timely, the notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at Caremark’s principal executive offices not later than the close of business on the day that is the 120th day before the anniversary of the prior year’s annual meeting. However, if the date of the annual meeting is more than 30 days before such anniversary date, notice by a stockholder to be timely must be delivered not later than the close of business on the 90th day before the annual meeting, unless less than 60 days notice or prior public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting is given or made to Caremark stockholders, in which case, notice by a stockholder to be timely must be so received not later than the close of business on the 10th day following the date on which notice of the date of the The CVS charter and CVS bylaws do not, and the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will not, contain any provisions that govern the submission of proposals by stockholders.





           

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        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





       

    annual meeting was mailed or publicly disclosed.

    A stockholder’s notice to Caremark regarding the proposal of business to be brought before an annual meeting must contain certain required information as described in the Caremark bylaws, including, among other things:

    • a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting; and


    • a description of any material interest of the stockholder in such business.
     





    Stockholder
    Nominations
     

    The Caremark bylaws provide that Caremark stockholders wishing to nominate candidates for election to the Caremark board of directors at an annual meeting must give proper and timely written notice to Caremark’s secretary. To be timely, the notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at Caremark’s principal executive offices within the timeframe described under “—Stockholder Proposals” above with respect to the submission of stockholder proposals.

    A stockholder’s notice to Caremark regarding director nominations must contain certain required information as described in the Caremark bylaws, including, among other things:

    • the name of each nominee proposed in the notice;


    • the principal occupation or employment of the nominee;


    • a description of all arrangements and understandings between the proposing stockholder and the nominee; and


    • the written consent of the nominee to serve as director if elected.
    The CVS charter and CVS bylaws do not, and the amended CVS charter and amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will not, contain any provisions that govern the submission of director nominations by stockholders.






    122











        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





    Voting Stock   The Caremark common stock is the only outstanding class of Caremark voting securities. Under Delaware law and the Caremark charter, each share of Caremark common stock is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to Caremark stockholders. The CVS common stock and the CVS ESOP preference stock are the only outstanding classes of CVS voting securities and will be the only outstanding classes of CVS/Caremark voting securities upon completion of the merger. Under Delaware law and the CVS charter, and upon the completion of the merger, under the amended CVS charter, each share of common stock is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to stockholders. The holders of the CVS ESOP preference stock are entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the holders of common stock, voting together with the holders of common stock as one class. Each share of CVS ESOP preference stock is entitled to the number of votes equal to the number of shares of common stock into which such share of CVS ESOP preference stock could be converted on the record date, rounded up to the nearest tenth of a share, for the applicable meeting. See “Description of CVS Capital Stock—CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock—Voting Rights” beginning on page 116 for a further description of the voting rights of the CVS ESOP preference stock.





    Vote Required for
    Certain Stockholder
    Actions; Effect of
    Abstentions
     

    Under Delaware law, except as otherwise required by Delaware law and unless the certificate of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation provide otherwise, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of the majority of voting power present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter is an act of the stockholders. The Caremark charter and Caremark bylaws do not contain any provision altering this default rule.

    Generally, under Delaware law, the approval of any merger or consolidation or a sale of all or substantially all of a corporation’s assets requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the total votes represented by the outstanding stock of the corporation entitled to vote on such matter.

    Abstentions have the effect of a vote

    Under Delaware law, except as otherwise required by Delaware law and unless the certificate of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation provide otherwise, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of the majority of voting power present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter is an act of the stockholders. The CVS charter and CVS bylaws do not contain, and the amended CVS charter and CVS bylaws upon completion of the merger will not contain, any provision altering this default rule (except with respect to the vote required to approve certain business combinations and any amendment thereof, and the amendments to the CVS bylaws described above under “CVS Bylaws Amendment—Amendments” beginning on page 114.

    Generally, under Delaware law, the approval of any merger or consolidation or






           

    123











        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





        against the proposal.

    a sale of all or substantially all of a corporation’s assets requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the total votes represented by the outstanding stock of the corporation entitled to vote on such matter.

    Abstentions have the effect of a vote against the proposal.






    Amendment of
    Certificate of
    Incorporation
     

    Under Delaware law, the Caremark charter may be amended by the adoption of a resolution of the board of directors, followed by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting power entitled to vote thereon and a majority of the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon. Except for the matters specified below, the Caremark charter generally provides that amendments to the Caremark charter may be made in accordance with the default positions of Delaware law.

    The Caremark charter provides that the Caremark charter may not be amended in any manner that would materially adversely alter or change the powers, preferences or special rights of the Caremark Series C junior participating preferred stock without the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Caremark Series C junior participating preferred stock. As of the date of this document, there are no shares of Caremark preferred stock outstanding.

    The Caremark charter also provides that no alteration or amendment of the Caremark charter will be effective to shorten the term of any director in office, to permit any director to be removed without cause or to increase the number of directors in any class or in the aggregate unless such alteration or amendment has been approved by the holders of all shares of stock entitled to vote thereon.

    Under Delaware law, the CVS charter may be amended by the adoption of a resolution of the board of directors, followed by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting power entitled to vote thereon and a majority of the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon as a separate class. Except for the matters specified below, the CVS charter generally provides, and upon completion of the merger the amended CVS charter will generally provide, that charter amendments may be made in accordance with the default positions of Delaware law.

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that the approval of holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of the then outstanding shares of CVS ESOP preference stock, voting separately as a series, is required if the charter amendment would alter or change the powers, preferences or special rights of the shares of CVS ESOP preference stock so as to affect them adversely.

    The CVS charter also provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that:

    • any change to the express terms applicable to all series of CVS cumulative preferred stock in any material respect prejudicial to the holders thereof or any creation of any class of stock that is preferred as to dividends or assets over the CVS cumulative preferred stock will require the approval of holders of at least two- thirds of the outstanding CVS cumulative preferred stock of all series;





           

     

    124






     






        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





         
    • any change to the express terms of the special provisions applicable to any particular series of CVS cumulative preferred stock in any material respect prejudicial to the holders thereof will require the approval of holders of at least two-thirds of the outstanding CVS cumulative preferred stock of the affected series; and


    • any increase in the authorized number of shares of CVS cumulative preferred stock or the creation of any class of stock ranking on parity with the CVS cumulative preferred stock as to dividends or assets will require the approval of holders of at least a majority of the outstanding CVS cumulative preferred stock of all series.

    As of the date of this document, there are no shares of CVS preferred stock outstanding, other than the CVS ESOP preference stock.






    Amendment of Bylaws  

    The Caremark bylaws may be amended, altered or repealed by the Caremark stockholders. The Caremark charter provides that the Caremark board of directors may also adopt, amend, alter or repeal the Caremark bylaws by the vote of a majority of the entire board of directors, although this right conferred on the board of directors may not divest or limit the power of the Caremark stockholders to adopt, amend or repeal the Caremark bylaws.

    However, the Caremark charter and Caremark bylaws further provide that no alteration or amendment of the Caremark bylaws will be effective to shorten the term of any director in office, to permit any director to be removed without cause or to increase the number of directors in any class or in the aggregate unless such alteration or amendment has been approved by either (i) the holders of all shares of stock entitled to vote thereon or (ii) by a vote of a majority of the entire Caremark board of directors.

    Before the merger. Any amendment of the CVS bylaws requires the approval of a majority of the CVS board of directors or the holders of at least a majority of the voting power present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting.

    After the merger. The amended CVS bylaws will provide that any amendment to the newly added provisions of the amended CVS bylaws described under the heading “CVS Bylaws Amendment” beginning on page 113 relating to the composition of the CVS/Caremark board of directors and committees, the location of the headquarters of CVS/Caremark’s pharmacy benefits management business, the name of the combined company and the removal of the CVS/Caremark chief executive officer will require the approval of three-quarters of the members of the CVS/Caremark board of directors.






    Limitation on   The Caremark charter provides that no The CVS charter provides, and the





    125






     






        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





    Liability  

    director will be personally liable to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breaches of fiduciary duty, except for:

    • any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to Caremark or its stockholders;


    • acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or knowing violation of the law;


    • any violation of Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law relating to the unlawful payment of a dividend or unlawful stock purchases or redemptions; or


    • any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

    The Caremark charter further provides that if Delaware law is amended to authorize corporations to further eliminate or limit the liability of a director, then the liability of a Caremark director will be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, as amended.

    amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, that no director will be liable to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director.

    Under Delaware law, liability may not be eliminated where a director’s acts or omissions:

    • were in breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders;


    • were not in good faith or involved intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of the law;


    • resulted in a violation of Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law for unlawful payment of a dividend or unlawful stock purchases or redemptions; or


    • involved transactions from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.





    Indemnification  

    The Caremark charter provides that any person who is subject to any proceeding by reason of the fact that he is or was a director of Caremark will be indemnified and held harmless by Caremark to the fullest extent permissible under Delaware law for all costs, charges, expenses, liabilities and losses that are reasonably incurred or suffered by such person in connection with the proceeding. The Caremark charter also provides that Caremark may provide indemnification to employees and agents of Caremark to the fullest extent permissible under Delaware law.

    In addition, Caremark is required to pay expenses actually incurred in connection with the proceeding in advance of the final disposition of the proceeding. However, if Delaware law requires, the payment of the expenses in advance of the final disposition will be made only upon delivery to Caremark of an undertaking, by or on behalf of such director or officer, to repay

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that the corporation will indemnify its directors and officers for any proceedings in which they are involved by reason of the fact that they are or were a director or officer of corporation to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law.

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, for the expenses incurred by an officer or director in defending any civil or criminal proceeding to be paid by the corporation in advance of the final disposition of the proceeding to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Under Delaware law, such expenses may be paid upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of a director or officer to repay the amount if it is ultimately determined that he or she is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation.






    126











        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





        all amounts advanced if it is ultimately determined that such director or officer is not entitled to be indemnified.

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that the corporation may, by action of the board of directors, provide indemnification to employees and agents of the corporation to the extent the board of directors determines is appropriate and authorized by Delaware law.

    In addition, the CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that the corporation has the power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation against any expense, liability or loss incurred by such person in any such capacity, whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify him against such liability under Delaware law.

    As described above under “The Merger Agreement—Certain Covenants” beginning on page 95, CVS has agreed to provide, for a period of six years after the effective date of the merger, officers’ and directors’ liability insurance covering acts or omissions occurring before the effective time of the merger by each officer or director of Caremark or its subsidiaries covered by Caremark’s current officers’ and directors’ liability insurance policy.






    Dividends  

    Under Delaware law, except as set forth in the certificate of incorporation, a corporation is generally permitted to declare and pay dividends out of surplus (defined as the excess, if any, of net assets over capital) or, if no surplus exists, out of net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year. However, the directors of a corporation may not pay any dividends out of net profits if the capital of the corporation has been reduced to an amount less than the aggregate amount of capital represented by the issued and outstanding stock of all classes having a preference upon the distribution of assets.

    The Caremark charter provides that except as otherwise provided by the resolution or

    Under Delaware law, except as set forth in the certificate of incorporation, a corporation is generally permitted to declare and pay dividends out of surplus (defined as the excess, if any, of net assets over capital) or, if no surplus exists, out of net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year. However, the directors of a corporation may not pay any dividends out of net profits if the capital of the corporation has been reduced to an amount less than the aggregate amount of capital represented by the issued and outstanding stock of all classes having a preference upon the distribution of assets.

    The CVS bylaws provide, and the amended CVS bylaws upon completion of the







    127











        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





        resolutions of the board of directors providing for the issuance of any series of preferred stock, the holders of shares of common stock are entitled to receive, when and if declared by the board of directors, out of the assets of Caremark which are by law available therefor, dividends payable either in cash, in property or in shares of capital stock.

    merger will provide, that dividends may be declared and paid out of the surplus of the corporation as often and at such times and to such extent as the board of directors may determine.

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that no dividends may be declared, paid, or set aside for payment on shares of CVS common stock unless full cumulative dividends are paid on the outstanding CVS ESOP preference stock and any other CVS preferred stock issued and outstanding at such time that is designated to have such dividend preference. A description of the preferential dividend rights of the CVS ESOP preference stock is set forth under “Description of CVS Capital Stock—CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock” beginning on page 116.






    Stockholder Rights Plan   Caremark currently has no stockholders rights plan. Caremark’s previous plan expired by its terms in February 2005. Notwithstanding the expiration of the stockholder rights plan and subject to the restrictions contained in the merger agreement, the Caremark board of directors could, pursuant to its authority to issue preferred stock, adopt a stockholders rights plan without stockholder approval at any future time. CVS does not have a stockholder rights plan. While CVS has no present intention to adopt a stockholder rights plan, the CVS board of directors, pursuant to its authority to issue preferred stock, could do so without stockholder approval at any future time. See “Description of CVS Stock—CVS Preferred Stock and Preference Stock—Blank Check Preferred Stock” beginning on page 116.





    Certain Business Combinations  

    There are no such provisions in the Caremark charter.

    The CVS charter provides, and the amended CVS charter upon completion of the merger will provide, that a Business Combination with a related person requires, in addition to any vote required by law, the affirmative approval of at least two-thirds of the votes represented by the outstanding shares of voting stock, voting together as a single class, held by stockholders other than the related person, unless either:

    • the continuing directors, by at least a two-thirds vote, have expressly approved such business combination either in advance of or subsequent to such related person becoming a related person; or

    • certain fair price criteria and





           

    128






     






        Caremark Stockholder Rights   CVS Stockholder Rights





         

         disclosure obligations are satisfied.

    “Business Combination” is defined in the CVS charter and generally includes a merger, significant assets dispositions, significant stock issuances, and certain other significant transactions. “Related person” is also defined in the CVS charter and generally means a 10% or greater beneficial stockholder of CVS. In addition, a “continuing director” is defined in the CVS charter and generally means a director of CVS unaffiliated with the related person, who was a member of the CVS board of directors before the time the related person became a related person or whose election was recommended by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the continuing directors then in office.

           

    129






    UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

         The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information, which is referred to as the pro forma financial information, has been prepared to give effect to the merger of CVS and Caremark. The pro forma financial information was prepared using the historical consolidated financial statements of CVS and Caremark as well as the financial information for the acquisition CVS completed on June 2, 2006.

         The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of September 30, 2006 combines the unaudited consolidated condensed balance sheets of CVS and Caremark as of September 30, 2006 and gives effect to the merger as if it occurred on September 30, 2006.

         The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 give effect to the merger as if it occurred on the first day of each period presented.

         The pro forma adjustments are preliminary and have been made solely for purposes of developing the pro forma financial information for illustrative purposes necessary to comply with the requirements of the SEC. The merger’s impact on the actual results reported by the combined company in periods following the merger may differ significantly from that reflected in these pro forma financial statements for a number of reasons, including but not limited to, the impact of the incremental costs incurred in integrating the two companies. As a result, the pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of what the combined company’s financial condition or results of operations would have been had the merger been completed on the applicable dates of this pro forma financial information. In addition, the pro forma financial information does not purport to project the future financial condition and results of operations of the combined company.

         CVS and Caremark stockholders should read the pro forma financial information in conjunction with CVS’ and Caremark’s audited and unaudited historical consolidated financial statements, accompanying footnotes and the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in CVS’ and Caremark’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006 and Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 incorporated by reference into this document. See “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning page 140.

    130






    Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet
    September 30, 2006

    In millions, except per share amounts     CVS       Caremark       Pro Forma
    Adjustments(a)
          Pro Forma
    Combined
     












    Assets:                                
         Cash and cash equivalents   $ 394.6     $ 1,061.6     $     $ 1,456.2  
         Short-term investments           266.4             266.4  
         Accounts receivable, net     2,197.4       2,228.3       (240.3 )     4,185.4  
         Inventories     7,014.5       452.1             7,466.6  
         Deferred income taxes     222.8       123.9             346.7  
         Other current assets     113.8       51.0             164.8  






     





    Total current assets     9,943.1       4,183.3       (240.3 )     13,886.1  
                                     
         Property and equipment, net     6,192.6       319.0             6,511.6  
         Goodwill     3,265.2       7,126.2       13,387.6       23,779.0  
         Intangible assets, net     1,346.9       697.6       1,244.4       3,288.9  
         Deferred income taxes     152.8                   152.8  
         Other assets     226.8       29.9             256.7  






     





    Total assets   $ 21,127.4     $ 12,356.0     $ 14,391.7     $ 47,875.1  






     





                                     
    Liabilities:                                
         Accounts payable and accrued expenses   $ 4,409.6     $ 3,858.7     $ (240.3 )   $ 8,028.0  
         Accrued transaction costs                 88.0       88.0  
         Short-term debt     3,160.2                   3,160.2  
         Current portion of long-term debt     46.4       450.0             496.4  






     





    Total current liabilities     7,616.2       4,308.7       (152.3 )     11,772.6  
                                     
         Long-term debt     3,279.9                   3,279.9  
         Deferred tax liability           236.9       487.8       724.7  
         Other long-term liabilities     796.9       339.8             1,136.7  
                                     
    Stockholders’ Equity                                
         Preference stock     215.6                   215.6  
         Common stock     8.5       0.5       6.5       15.5  
         Treasury stock     (319.5 )     (2,429.4 )     2,429.4       (319.5 )
         Shares held in trust           (90.7 )     90.7        
         Guaranteed ESOP obligation     (114.0 )                 (114.0 )
         Capital surplus     2,140.0       8,768.3       12,751.5       23,659.8  
         Retained earnings     7,595.2       1,239.7       (1,239.7 )     7,595.2  
         Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (91.4 )     (17.8 )     17.8       (91.4 )






     





    Total stockholders’ equity     9,434.4       7,470.6       14,056.2       30,961.2  






     





    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 21,127.4     $ 12,356.0     $ 14,391.7     $ 47,875.1  






     





         See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements, including Note 3 for an explanation of the preliminary pro forma adjustments.

    131






    Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations
    For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2005

    In millions, except per share amounts     CVS     Completed
    Acquisition (2)
        Caremark       Pro Forma
    Adjustments
          Pro Forma
    Combined
     
       

     

     


     


     

     
    Net revenue   $ 37,006.2   $ 5,463.0   $ 32,991.3       $ (3,805.3 )(c)   $ 71,655.2  
    Cost of revenues     27,105.0     4,059.0     30,975.1       (3,805.3 )(c)     58,333.8  
       

     

     


     


     

     
         Gross profit     9,901.2     1,404.0     2,016.2             13,321.4  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses     7,881.7     1,172.0     546.4       53.6  (d)     9,653.7  
       

     

     


     


     

     
    Operating profit     2,019.5     232.0     1,469.8       (53.6 )     3,667.7  
    Non-operating gain, net             25.7             25.7  
    Interest expense (income), net     110.5     216.0     (3.0 )           323.5  
       

     

     


     


     

     
    Earnings/(loss) before income tax                                    
       provision/(benefit)     1,909.0     16.0     1,498.5       (53.6 )     3,369.9  
    Income tax provision/(benefit)     684.3     4.8     566.1       (21.0 )(c)     1,234.2  
       

     

     


     


     

     
    Net earnings/(loss)     1,224.7     11.2     932.4       (32.6 )     2,135.7  
    Preference dividends, net of income tax benefit     14.1                     14.1  
       

     

     


     


     

     
    Net earnings/(loss) available to common                                    
       stockholders   $ 1,210.6   $ 11.2   $ 932.4     $ (32.6 )   $ 2,121.6  
       

     

     


     


     

     
                                         
    Basic earnings per common share:                                    
         Net earnings   $ 1.49         $ 2.09     $        $ 1.36  
       

           


     


     

     
         Weighted average common shares outstanding     811.4           446.9       299.4       1,557.7  
       

           


     


     

     
                                         
    Diluted earnings per common share:                                    
         Net earnings   $ 1.45         $ 2.05     $        $ 1.33  
       

           


     


     

     
         Weighted average common shares outstanding     841.6           455.8       305.4       1,602.8  
       

           


     


     

     
    Dividends declared per common share   $ 0.1450                     $ 0.1450 (f)
       

           


     


     

     

         See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma combined financial statements, including Note 3 for an explanation of the preliminary pro forma adjustments.

    132






    Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations
    For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2006

    In millions, except per share amounts     CVS     Completed
    Acquisition (2)
          Caremark       Pro Forma
    Adjustments
          Pro Forma
    Combined
     













     
    Net revenue   $ 31,747.5   $ 2,373.9     $ 27,480.8     $ (3,467.0 )(c)   $ 58,135.2  
    Cost of revenues     23,173.8     1,795.4       25,799.3       (3,467.0 )(c)     47,301.5  













     
         Gross profit     8,573.7     578.5       1,681.5             10,833.7  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses     6,881.4     494.5       447.3       42.8       7,866.0  













     
    Operating profit     1,692.3     84.0       1,234.2       (42.8 )(d)     2,967.7  
    Gain on treasury lock               17.1             17.1  
    Interest expense (income), net     134.7     88.6       (25.6 )           197.7  













     
    Earnings/(loss) before income tax                                      
       provision/(benefit)     1,557.6     (4.6 )     1,276.9       (42.8 )     2,787.1  
    Income tax provision/(benefit)     605.9     (0.2 )     504.4       (16.8 )(c)     1,093.3  













     
    Net earnings/(loss)     951.7     (4.4 )     772.5       (26.0 )     1,693.8  
    Preference dividends, net of income tax benefit     10.5                       10.5  













     
    Net earnings/(loss) available to common                                      
       stockholders   $ 941.2   $ (4.4 )   $ 772.5     $ (26.0 )   $ 1,683.3  













     
                                           
    Basic earnings per common share:                                      
         Net earnings   $ 1.15           $ 1.79     $       $ 1.09  










     
         Weighted average common shares outstanding     819.3             432.2       289.6       1,541.1  


         







     
                                           
    Diluted earnings per common share:                                      
         Net earnings   $ 1.11           $ 1.76     $       $ 1.07  










     
         Weighted average common shares outstanding     852.2             439.5       294.5       1,586.2  


         







     
    Dividends declared per common share   $ 0.11625           $ 0.20     $     $ 0.11625 (f)










     

         See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements, including Note 3 for an explanation of the preliminary pro forma adjustments.

    133






    Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements

    (Dollars in millions)

    Note 1—Basis of Presentation

         The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of September 30, 2006 combines the unaudited consolidated balance sheets of CVS and Caremark as of September 30, 2006 and gives effect to the merger as if it occurred on September 30, 2006.

         The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and for the nine month period ended September 30, 2006 give effect to the merger as if it occurred on the first day of each period presented.

         The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements which are referred to as pro forma financial statements are based on the historical financial statements of CVS and Caremark, as well as financial information for the acquisition CVS completed on June 2, 2006, and give effect to the merger between CVS and Caremark under the purchase method of accounting. As a result, the pro forma financial statements are based on assumptions and adjustments, including assumptions relating to the allocation of the consideration paid to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Caremark based on preliminary estimates of fair value. The final purchase price allocation may differ from that reflected in the pro forma financial statements after valuation procedures are performed and amounts are finalized following the completion of the merger.

         The pro forma adjustments are preliminary and have been made solely for purposes of developing the pro forma financial statements for illustrative purposes. The merger’s impact on the actual results reported by the combined company in periods following the merger may differ significantly from that reflected in these pro forma financial statements. The pro forma financial statements do not give effect to any potential cost savings or operating synergies that CVS and Caremark expect to result from the merger, nor do they give effect to any potential costs to be incurred in integrating the two companies.

    Note 2—Completed Acquisition

         On June 2, 2006, CVS acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities from Albertson’s, Inc., which is referred to as Albertson’s for $4.0 billion. The assets acquired and the liabilities assumed included approximately 700 stand-alone drugstores and a distribution center, which are referred to collectively as the Standalone Drug Business. CVS financed the acquisition of the Standalone Drug Business by issuing commercial paper and borrowing $1.0 billion from a bridge loan facility. During the third quarter of 2006, CVS repaid a portion of the commercial paper used to finance the acquisition with the proceeds received from the issuance of $800 million of 5.75% unsecured senior notes due August 15, 2011 and $700 million of 6.125% unsecured senior notes due August 15, 2016.

         The financial information included in the pro forma statements of operat