U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003
or
[_] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)
For the transition period from ________ to _______
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 23-2967577
(State of organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Building 400
435 Devon Park Drive (610) 293-0838
Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087 (Registrant's telephone number,
(Address of principal executive offices) including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [_] No [X] *
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [X]
There are no common equity securities of the registrant outstanding.
At June 16, 2004, the outstanding capital of Metallurg Holdings, Inc. was
comprised of 5,202.335 shares of Series A Voting Convertible Preferred Stock and
4,524 shares of Series B Non-Voting Convertible Preferred Stock, $.01 par value.
*The registrant is not subject to the filing requirements of Section 13 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The registrant is a voluntary
filer.
Documents Incorporated By Reference
None.
PART I
Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto included
elsewhere in this report.
Overview
Metallurg Holdings, Inc. ("Metallurg Holdings"), a Delaware corporation
formed on June 10, 1998, together with its consolidated subsidiaries,
(collectively, the "Company"), is wholly owned by a group of investors led by
and including Safeguard International Fund, L.P. ("Safeguard International"), an
international private equity fund that invests primarily in equity securities of
companies in process industries. On July 13, 1998, Metallurg Acquisition Corp.,
a wholly owned subsidiary of Metallurg Holdings, merged with and into Metallurg,
Inc., with Metallurg, Inc. being the surviving company and Metallurg Holdings
becoming the sole parent of Metallurg, Inc. (the "Merger").
At the time of the Merger, Metallurg Holdings received $62.9 million net
proceeds upon consummation of the offering of $121.0 million aggregate principal
amount at maturity of Senior Discount Notes due 2008 (the "Senior Discount
Notes") in a Rule 144A private placement to qualified institutional investors.
In October 1998, the 144A notes were exchanged for similar notes registered
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. In October 2000, Metallurg, Inc.
purchased $76.1 million in face amount of these Senior Discount Notes. In
December 2002, an additional $4.6 million in face amount of these Senior
Discount Notes was acquired in the sale of certain subsidiaries. See "Note 3.
Change in Reporting Entity", "Note 5. Extraordinary Items" and "Note 12.
Borrowings" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
As Metallurg Holdings is a holding company and does not have any material
operations or tangible assets other than the ownership of Metallurg, Inc., the
following discussion of the Company's business and properties relates to
Metallurg, Inc., a Delaware corporation, together with its majority-owned
subsidiaries (collectively "Metallurg"), unless otherwise indicated.
Metallurg is a leading international producer and seller of high-quality
specialty metals, alloys and metallic chemicals which are essential to the
production of high-performance aluminum and titanium alloys, specialty steel,
superalloys and certain non-metallic materials for various applications in the
aerospace, power supply, automotive, petrochemical processing and
telecommunications industries. Metallurg sells approximately 50 different
product groups to over 1,500 customers worldwide (primarily in North America and
Europe).
The Metallurg group was founded in 1911 with the construction of a vanadium
alloy and chemical producing plant in Nuremberg, Germany. Metallurg began mining
chrome ore in 1916 and constructed a ferrochrome manufacturing plant in
Weisweiler, Germany in 1917. In subsequent years, Metallurg's customer base grew
throughout Europe and, in 1938, Metallurg added its first subsidiary in the U.K.
During the 1950's, Metallurg began operations in the U.S. and, during the
1980's, added production operations in Brazil. Metallurg established a worldwide
sales network that sold products manufactured by Metallurg as well as products
manufactured by third parties. Metallurg, Inc. was incorporated as a New York
holding company in 1947 and reincorporated as a Delaware corporation in 1997.
Effective September 30, 2003, Metallurg, Inc. and its wholly owned
subsidiary, Metallurg Holdings Corporation, sold all of its ownership interests
in its Weisweiler, Germany manufacturing facility ("EWW") and its Turkish chrome
ore mines. In 2002, Metallurg had sold all of its ownership interests in
manufacturing facilities in Nuremberg, Germany, as well as several sales offices
in Europe. As the above transactions were between members of a common controlled
group, as defined for accounting purposes, they are accounted for on an
historical basis with no gain or loss being recorded, and the results presented
herein have been restated, for all periods presented, to exclude the financial
results of the companies sold and to reflect the new reporting entity. See "Note
3. Change in Reporting Entity" to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
On December 23, 2003, Metallurg committed to a plan to sell its South
African sales office to a group of investors, including local management.
Accordingly, the operating results for this entity have been reported as
discontinued operations for all periods presented. The transaction closed on
March 8, 2004. The total purchase price was $9.1 million, consisting of $7.7
million in cash and a note receivable for $1.4 million. Metallurg will record
income from discontinued operations of $0.3 million and a loss on the sale of
discontinued operations of approximately $1.0 million in the first quarter of
2004. See "Note 4. Discontinued Operations" to the Company's Consolidated
Financial Statements.
1
Metallurg operates in one significant industry segment, the manufacture and
sale of performance-enhancing additives mainly for the metallurgical industry.
Metallurg is organized around its major production facilities in the U.K., the
U.S. and Brazil. In addition to its own products, Metallurg distributes products
manufactured by third parties. The table below sets forth, for the periods
indicated, information concerning revenue from Metallurg's three reportable
segments, as described below:
Revenue by Segment
(In millions)
Year Ended December 31,
------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------ ------ ------
Segments (a)
LSM................................................. $168.2 $161.0 $173.2
SMC................................................. 98.7 92.1 104.1
CIF................................................. 33.2 32.9 39.4
Other............................................... 29.9 41.2 78.8
Intersegment eliminations........................... (46.7) (49.4) (58.8)
------ ------ ------
Total revenue.................................... $283.3 $277.8 $336.7
====== ====== ======
- ----------
(a) EWW, which was sold in September 2003, was previously a reportable segment.
Revenue of Metallurg's Turkish chrome ore mines, also sold in September
2003, was previously included in "Other". The results of the South African
sales office, previously included in "Other", were reclassed to
discontinued operations for all period presented. See "Note 3. Change in
Reporting Entity" and "Note 4. Discontinued Operations" to the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements.
London & Scandinavian Metallurgical Co Limited and its subsidiaries
(collectively, "LSM") - This unit is comprised mainly of three production
facilities in the U.K. and another in Norway which manufacture and sell aluminum
alloy grain refiners and alloying tablets for the aluminum industry, chromium
metal and specialty ferroalloys for the steel and superalloy industries and
aluminum powder for various metal powder-consuming industries. As a result of
continuing weakness in operating performance, LSM commenced a restructuring
program in the second half of 2003. LSM discontinued its metal catalyst business
in the fourth quarter of 2003 and announced the closure of its Norwegian
production facilities in 2004. See "Note 7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment
Charges" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Shieldalloy Metallurgical Corporation ("SMC") - This unit is comprised of
two production facilities in the U.S. The Ohio plant manufactures and sells
ferrovanadium and vanadium-based chemicals used mostly in the steel and
petrochemical industries. The New Jersey plant manufactures and sells alloying
tablets for the aluminum industry and metal powders for the welding industry.
Companhia Industrial Fluminense ("CIF") - This unit is comprised mainly of
two production facilities in Brazil. The Sao Joao del Rei plant manufactures and
sells aluminum alloy grain refiners and alloying tablets for the aluminum
industry and metal oxides used in the telecommunications, superalloy and
specialty metal industries. The Nazareno mine extracts and concentrates ores
containing tantalum and niobium that are processed, along with other raw
materials, into metal oxides at the Sao Joao del Rei plant.
In addition to their manufacturing operations, LSM and SMC import and
distribute complementary products manufactured by affiliates and third parties.
Corporate-related items and results of subsidiaries not meeting the
quantitative thresholds prescribed by applicable accounting rules for
determining reportable segments are included in "Other". Metallurg does not
allocate general corporate overhead expenses to operating segments.
Products and Markets
For the year ended December 31, 2003, approximately 41% of Metallurg's
sales were made to the aluminum industry, 27% were made to the iron and steel
industry, 15% were made to the superalloy and titanium alloy industries and the
remaining 17% were made to other industries, none of which was individually
significant for reporting purposes. No single customer accounted for more than
10% of Metallurg's sales for the year ended December 31, 2003.
2
Based on customer location, for the year ended December 31, 2003,
approximately 43% of Metallurg's sales were made in North America, 36% in
Europe, 13% in Asia, 6% in South America and 2% in Africa.
The following table sets forth the revenue of product groups most
significant to Metallurg's operations:
Significant Product Groups
(Dollars in millions)
Year Ended December 31,
---------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
--------------- --------------- ---------------
Revenue % Revenue % Revenue %
------- ----- ------- ----- ------- -----
Name of Product Group
Aluminum............. $139.1 49.1 $129.5 46.6 $129.8 38.6
Chromium............. 40.7 14.4 42.6 15.3 55.5 16.5
Vanadium............. 19.8 7.0 16.7 6.0 17.1 5.1
Titanium............. 19.2 6.8 16.6 6.0 16.6 4.9
Niobium.............. 17.5 6.2 21.0 7.6 29.7 8.8
Powders.............. 14.3 5.0 11.4 4.1 9.5 2.8
Tantalum............. 7.9 2.8 13.9 5.0 48.6 14.4
------ ----- ------- ----- ------ -----
258.5 91.3 251.7 90.6 306.8 91.1
Other................ 24.8 8.7 26.1 9.4 29.9 8.9
------ ----- ------- ----- ------ -----
Total revenue..... $283.3 100.0 $277.8 100.0 $336.7 100.0
====== ===== ====== ===== ====== =====
Aluminum Industry; Aluminum Master Alloys and Compacted Products -
Metallurg manufactures a series of aluminum-based alloys and compacted additives
supplied to the aluminum industry to enhance productivity in aluminum plants and
to introduce various specific properties into aluminum products for use in many
sectors, including automotive and transport, aerospace, power transmission,
construction and consumer durables. Metallurg sells to major aluminum producers
throughout the world, including Alcan Aluminium Limited, Alcoa Inc., Pechiney
S.A., Norsk Hydro ASA, Rio Tinto plc and Sumitomo Corporation. The aluminum
industry is cyclical. Consumption of aluminum products fluctuates with demand
from the industry sectors listed above, as well as competition between aluminum
and other metals and materials, such as plastics and glass.
Iron and Steel Industry; Specialty Ferroalloys - Metallurg manufactures and
sells specialty ferroalloys for use in the iron and steel industry. Metallurg's
principal specialty ferroalloy products are ferrovanadium and ferrotitanium. It
also markets ferroboron, ferrosilicon, ferromanganese, ferrochrome and
ferroniobium produced by others. These products are used by iron and steel
producers to increase temperature and corrosion resistance and improve
mechanical properties and strength-to-weight ratios. Ferroalloys are essential
additives to many iron and steel products used in a wide variety of industries,
such as the aerospace, automotive, energy and construction industries.
Metallurg's iron and steel industry customers include Affival, Inc., Ametek,
Inc., Corus Group plc, Nucor Corporation, Steel Dynamics, Inc., ThyssenKrupp
Steel AG and United States Steel Corporation. The iron and steel industry is
cyclical, with iron and steel consumption depending greatly on demand for
durable goods, such as automobiles, construction materials, machinery,
appliances and miscellaneous manufactured products.
Superalloy and Titanium Alloy Industries; Specialty Metals and Alloys -
Metallurg manufactures and sells a series of specialty metals and alloys which
are essential to achieving elevated temperature strength and oxidation
resistance in nickel-based superalloys and titanium alloys for aerospace, power
generation, and oil and petrochemical applications. Its principal products
include various chromium-based materials, niobium and vanadium alloys.
Metallurg's customers include Allegheny Technologies Incorporated, Carpenter
Technology Corporation, Titanium Metals Corporation, RTI International Metals
and the Eramet Group. The superalloy and titanium alloy industries are cyclical.
Consumption of these products fluctuates with demand from the aerospace, power
generation, oil field and petrochemical sectors.
3
Other Industries and Products - In addition to the product lines described
above, Metallurg manufactures and distributes a number of products used outside
of the aluminum, steel, superalloy, and titanium alloy industries. These
products include tantalum which is sold to electronics, telecommunications and
tool manufacturers; vanadium chemicals for use in the synthetic rubber and
ceramics industries; polishing powders used by the glass polishing industry; and
metal powders used in the manufacture of rocket fuel, automotive paints, and
chemical and metallurgical products. These products generally are higher-margin
and technically sophisticated.
Metallurg's financial performance fluctuates with the general economic
cycle, as well as cycles in the markets for Metallurg's products, which could
have a material adverse effect on Metallurg's business, financial condition and
results of operations. In addition, many of Metallurg's products are
internationally traded, with prices that are significantly affected by worldwide
supply and demand.
Foreign Operations and Currency Fluctuations - Metallurg has substantial
operations outside the U.S. At December 31, 2003, Metallurg's operations located
outside the U.S. represented approximately 57% (based on book values) of
Metallurg's assets. Approximately 82% of Metallurg's employees were outside the
U.S. Foreign operations are subject to certain risks that can materially affect
the sales, profits, cash flows and financial position of Metallurg, including
taxes on distributions or deemed distributions to Metallurg, Inc. or any U.S.
subsidiary, currency exchange rate fluctuations, limitations on repatriation of
funds, maintenance of minimum capital requirements, and import and export
controls. In general, Metallurg's cost of sales for products manufactured in
certain foreign locations can be impacted by changes in the rate of exchange of
the respective local currencies of those locations relative to the U.S. dollar
and other currencies in which it sells. While Metallurg engages in hedging
transactions to reduce certain of the risks of currency rate fluctuations, there
can be no assurances regarding the overall effectiveness or adequacy of
Metallurg's hedging activities.
Foreign Sales - Sales by Metallurg's domestic operations to foreign
customers totaled $10.0 million; $8.9 million and $23.8 million for the years
ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
Manufacturing Processes
Metallurg's manufacturing processes involve melting, refining, casting,
crushing, sizing, blending and packaging operations, which vary from product to
product. For example, in the manufacture of ferrovanadium, SMC's Cambridge, Ohio
plant consumes vanadium-containing raw materials, predominantly spent catalysts
and residues from petrochemical refineries and ashes and residues from electric
utilities burning fuel oil. The raw materials are melted and reductants are
added to refine the chemistry of the production batch. The batch is poured into
casting molds to form ingots, which are cooled and then crushed, sized, blended
and packaged. In general, the manufacture of aluminum master alloys also follows
similar principles using aluminum and other additives; however, these master
alloys are generally cast as small ingots or processed into a solid rod form for
delivery to the customer. The manufacture of briquettes and tablets involves the
grinding and blending of raw materials, the compression of these materials into
a compacted form and packaging for delivery to the customer. More sophisticated
production routes are used for highly specialized products, which can require
chemical processing or the use of a variety of other equipment.
4
Facilities and Operations
Metallurg operates it corporate headquarters from a leased office in New
York and owns all of the facilities listed below.
Production Facilities - The following table sets forth, for each of
Metallurg's producing subsidiaries, the location of its facilities and the key
products manufactured by such subsidiary:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manufacturing Subsidiary Location Key Products
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LSM Rotherham, U.K. (Plant) Aluminum Alloying Tablets
Aluminum Master Alloys
Chromium Metal
Ferroboron
Ferrotitanium
Glass Polishing Powders
Metal Powders
Nickel Boron
Holyhead, U.K. (Plant) Atomized Aluminum Powder
Minworth, U.K. (Plant) Granulated Aluminum
Rjukan, Norway (Plant) Aluminum Master Alloys
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SMC Cambridge, Ohio (Plant) Ferrovanadium
Vanadium Chemicals
Newfield, New Jersey (Plant) Aluminum Alloying Tablets and Briquettes
Metal Powders
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CIF Sao Joao del Rei, Brazil (Plant) Aluminum Alloying Tablets
Aluminum Master Alloys
Niobium Oxide
Tantalum Oxide
Nazareno, Brazil (Mine) Tantalum and Niobium Ore
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales Offices - Metallurg has sales personnel at its production facilities
and at its separate representative offices in Brazil, Japan and Mexico.
Raw Materials
Metallurg produces a wide variety of products for sale to a number of
different metals industries and there is no single raw material that makes up
the basis of Metallurg's entire production.
For the production of chromium metal, LSM purchases chromium oxide from the
major global producers. This product also requires large quantities of aluminum
powder, substantially produced internally.
Metallurg's six aluminum processing plants in the U.S., the U.K., Brazil
and Norway buy approximately 35,000 tons of virgin aluminum from producers
worldwide, while important alloying chemicals are sourced from several different
suppliers around the world.
Titanium scrap is sourced in significant quantities for the production of
ferrotitanium and other titanium-containing products from countries active in
the aerospace industry, such as the U.S., the Commonwealth of Independent States
("CIS") and the U.K.
Vanadium pentoxide in various forms is the raw material for Metallurg's
production of ferrovanadium and vanadium chemicals. For ferrovanadium
production, Metallurg purchases vanadium-containing spent catalysts and residues
from petrochemical refineries and ashes and residues from electric utilities
burning fuel oil. Metallurg currently obtains a majority of these raw materials
from only a few sources. See "Limited Sources for Raw Materials." Vanadium
chemicals are produced from commercially pure vanadium pentoxide, which is
purchased on the open market.
5
Metallurg also utilizes many other raw materials such as strontium, nickel,
boron chemicals, mischmetal, manganese and chrome silicide in the manufacture of
its broad product range, which are purchased as required from producers or
traders. Coinciding with general sales terms, most purchases are made on a spot
basis at market prices to minimize the risk of exposure to market fluctuations.
Limited Sources for Raw Materials - Certain of Metallurg, Inc.'s
subsidiaries are dependent on third parties for raw material supplies. SMC's
production unit in Cambridge, Ohio currently obtains a majority of its raw
materials requirements for the manufacture of ferrovanadium from only a few
sources. Although alternative sources of ferrovanadium raw materials exist,
there can be no assurance that Metallurg would be able to obtain adequate
supplies of such materials on acceptable terms, or at all, from other sources.
Titanium and boron chemicals for the manufacture of sophisticated aluminum
master alloys are sourced from long-time suppliers who, in certain instances,
also supply competitive producers with these raw materials. Although these and
other raw materials are generally priced with reference to related market
prices, any increase in demand could cause raw material costs to rise. To the
extent Metallurg is unable to recover its increased costs, operating results
would be adversely affected.
Competition
The metals industry is highly competitive on a worldwide basis. Competition
is primarily based on price, quality and timely delivery. In recent years, price
competition has been strong as a result of excess capacity in certain products.
In addition, export sales from the CIS and China of metals and alloys produced
in excess of local demand can severely hurt prices in Europe and the U.S., which
negatively impacts the price of some of Metallurg's products. New entrants may
also increase competition in the metals industry, which could materially
adversely affect Metallurg. An increase in the use of substitutes for metal
alloys also could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and
operations of Metallurg. Although facing competition in each of its markets,
Metallurg does not believe that any single competitor competes in all of its
products or markets.
Aluminum Industry - Competition is international because of the relatively
small number of master alloy and alloying tablet manufacturers and the worldwide
operations of the aluminum industry. In most markets, Metallurg faces
competition to varying degrees from KBM Affilips B.V., KBAlloys, Inc. (and its
U.K. subsidiary, Anglo Blackwells, Ltd.), Aleastur (Asturiana de Aleaciones,
S.A.), the Eramet Group and Hoesch-Metallurgie GmbH.
Iron and Steel Industry - In North America, products manufactured by
Strategic Minerals Corporation, Treibacher Industrie AG, Highveld Steel and
Vanadium Corporation Limited, Xstrata AG and certain CIS and Chinese sources
compete with Metallurg's ferrovanadium products, while several U.S., U.K. and
Russian companies compete worldwide with Metallurg's ferrotitanium products.
Superalloy and Titanium Alloy Industries - Metallurg has competition in
chromium metal from Delachaux S.A., certain Chinese and CIS sources and, to a
limited extent, the Eramet Group. Strategic Minerals Corporation and Reading
Alloys, Inc. compete internationally with Metallurg in vanadium aluminum.
Reading Alloys, Inc. also competes in sophisticated alloys for the superalloy
industry, as do CBMM-Cia Brasileira de Metalurgia e Mineracao, Cabot Corporation
and H.C. Starck GmbH & Co. KG in certain products.
Employees
As of December 31, 2003, Metallurg employed approximately 900 people
worldwide. Labor unions represent approximately 50% of Metallurg's employees.
Unions represent employees at seven locations in the U.S., the U.K., Brazil and
Norway. SMC's collective bargaining agreement with the United Steelworkers of
America (USW, Local 4836-02), which covers 69 employees at the Cambridge, Ohio
plant, expired on June 6, 2003. Following negotiations, SMC and the union
reached an impasse on June 15, 2003. The union employees worked under the terms
of SMC's last offer for a proposed new contract until December 8, 2003, at which
time they went on strike and SMC hired temporary replacement workers. A new
three-year contract was ratified by the union on April 14, 2004. SMC's
collective bargaining agreement with the United Automobile, Aerospace and
Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW, Local 2327), which covers 24
employees at the Newfield, New Jersey plant expires on May 24, 2004. A new
four year agreement was ratified effective on that date. Many of the collective
bargaining agreements covering Metallurg's union employees at its foreign
subsidiaries are renewable on an annual basis. Metallurg's relationships
with its unions are managed at the local level and are considered by management
to be satisfactory.
6
Anti-Dumping Duties
In response to dumping by the former Soviet Union, Metallurg sought and
obtained anti-dumping orders against Russia for imports of ferrovanadium into
the U.S. Since July 1995, the Department of Commerce has imposed incremental
anti-dumping duties, which currently range from 10.1% to 108%, on imports of
Russian ferrovanadium and nitrided vanadium into the U.S. These duties are in
addition to the normal duty of 4.2% that applies to ferrovanadium imports. A
"sunset review" of the anti-dumping duty order was conducted by the
International Trade Commission and the Department of Commerce and was favorably
concluded in May 2001. As a result, the order will remain in effect until at
least April 2006 when the next "sunset review" is initiated.
On November 26, 2001, in response to a surge in imports of ferrovanadium
from South Africa and China, the Ferroalloys Association Vanadium Committee,
representing Metallurg and other U.S. producers, filed a petition seeking the
imposition of anti-dumping duty orders covering imports from those countries. In
response to the petition, the Commerce Department initiated investigations and
the International Trade Commission unanimously determined that there was a
reasonable indication that the U.S. industry was materially injured by reason of
imports from these two countries. The final antidumping investigations were
favorably concluded during the fourth quarter of 2002 and resulted in duties
ranging from 12.97% to 116%, in addition to the 4.2% normal tariff, being
imposed on imports from these two countries.
Anti-dumping duty rates are subject to annual review by the Department of
Commerce. Metallurg had revenues of approximately $14 million from sales of
ferrovanadium produced by Metallurg and sold in the U.S. for the year ended
December 31, 2003. If the anti-dumping duties are not maintained at or near
their current levels, Metallurg may be materially adversely affected.
Environmental Matters
Metallurg's alloy manufacturing operations in Cambridge, Ohio and Newfield,
New Jersey are subject to various federal, state and local environmental, safety
and health laws and regulations, including those relating to air and water
quality, and solid and hazardous wastes. Metallurg's foreign manufacturing
operations are subject to analogous environmental laws and regulations.
Metallurg is faced with a number of environmental issues, which have largely
resulted from environmental cleanup requirements, particularly in the areas of
solid waste and hazardous waste removal. There can be no assurance that the
current environmental requirements will not result in future liabilities and
obligations, including future liability for disposal or contamination at both
domestic and foreign facilities. There is also the possibility that changes to
applicable environmental laws and regulations might result in future liabilities
and obligations for Metallurg, including those related to contamination at
Metallurg's facilities. These potential liabilities might also be material to
Metallurg's business operations, financial condition or cash flow.
Metallurg maintains environmental and industrial safety and health
compliance programs at its plants and believes that its manufacturing operations
are in general compliance with all applicable safety, health and environmental
laws.
SMC is addressing certain environmental conditions at the Cambridge, Ohio
plant pursuant to a judicial consent order entered into with the State of Ohio
in 1997. SMC submitted to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission ("NRC") in July 1999
a plan for decommissioning slag piles at the Cambridge facility. Such plan
contemplates capping the slag piles on-site, an alternative that the Ohio
Environmental Protection Agency ("OEPA") has approved. Before the NRC completed
its review of the plan, the NRC delegated its regulatory authority over the site
to the Ohio Department of Health ("ODH") in August 1999. The ODH is now the
governmental entity responsible for overseeing the decommissioning of the slag
piles. SMC has been engaged for some time in discussions with the ODH and the
OEPA with respect to such decommissioning plan and related alternatives, and
with the OEPA on various matters that are regulated under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act ("RCRA"), including alleged past violations of
certain RCRA provisions. The possibility of penalties being assessed has arisen,
and while there can be no assurance that SMC will not make certain payments in
connection therewith, management does not expect that the outcome of these
discussions will have a material adverse effect on the operations, cash flow or
financial position of Metallurg. At December 31, 2003, liabilities of $10.1
million remain outstanding from provisions made in prior periods for the
estimated future costs associated with the decommissioning of NRC (now ODH)
regulated materials and the remediation of sediments at the Cambridge site. SMC
finalized remediation plans with respect to these areas with the OEPA and ODH
during 2003 and commenced work in accordance with such plans. A plan for the
creation of wetlands is intended to be submitted during 2004. SMC expects to
spend the amount reserved for outstanding liabilities over the next 4 years.
7
In August 2002, SMC filed a decommissioning plan for its Newfield facility
with the NRC. At the same time, SMC requested an amendment to the authorized use
of the Newfield facility, as permitted by the NRC, to "storage only pending
decommissioning". While the Newfield facility will continue to operate, SMC does
not intend to resume any previously licensed activities and expects to commence
decommissioning activities upon approval of the plan by the NRC.
At December 31, 2003, liabilities of $19.3 million remain outstanding for
the estimated future costs associated with the decommissioning of NRC regulated
materials and the remediation of groundwater (as to which SMC is exploring
alternative treatment approaches), soil and sediments at the Newfield site. SMC
expects to expend such amount over the next 15 years or sooner if an acceptable
alternative approach for the remediation of groundwater is identified and
approved by the interested regulatory authorities.
There can be no assurance that SMC will not incur additional expenses
related to the environmental projects at the Cambridge and Newfield sites.
Liabilities for known environmental matters and Metallurg's related
accounting policies are summarized in "Note 16. Environmental Liabilities" and
"Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Environmental Remediation
Costs and Recoveries" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. See
also "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations - Liquidity and Financial Resources - Environmental
Remediation Costs."
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
Metallurg, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries are parties from time to
time to legal proceedings relating to their operations. The ultimate legal and
financial liability of Metallurg in respect of all legal proceedings in which it
is involved at any given time cannot be estimated with any certainty. However,
based upon examination of such matters and consultation with counsel, management
currently believes that the ultimate outcome of these contingencies, net of
liabilities already accrued in Metallurg's Consolidated Balance Sheet, will not
have a material adverse effect on Metallurg's consolidated financial position,
although the resolution in any reporting period of one or more of these matters
could have a significant impact on Metallurg's results of operations and/or cash
flows for that period. For discussion of specific environmental matters, see
"Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties - Environmental Matters."
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the
fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 2003.
8
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Company's Equity and Related Stockholder Matters.
Metallurg Holdings
Metallurg Holdings issued no securities during 2003.
There is no public trading market for Metallurg Holdings' equity
securities.
Metallurg Holdings is currently prohibited under Delaware law from paying
dividends because its total liabilities exceeded its total assets at December
31, 2003. In addition, Metallurg Holdings does not presently intend to pay any
dividends, although it may choose to do so in the future. Metallurg Holdings is
restricted in the amount of dividends payable to its shareholders as a result of
the indenture for the Senior Discount Notes. Under the terms of the indenture,
Metallurg Holdings is limited in its ability to make restricted payments, as
defined and including, among other things, minority investments in subsidiaries
and dividend payments, to a formula based on the cumulative net income since
November 1, 1997 and certain specified allowances. As a result of this
limitation, Metallurg Holdings is permitted to make future restricted payments
in the amount of $7.5 million as of December 31, 2003.
In January 2004, Metallurg Holdings did not have sufficient cash on hand to
make the interest payment due on its Senior Discount Notes. Therefore,
Metallurg, Inc. loaned Metallurg Holdings $1.5 million to pay interest on the
Senior Discount Notes held by non-related parties. In addition, Metallurg, Inc.
and another related party bought a $5.1 million note and a $1.1 million note,
respectively, from Metallurg Holdings with the proceeds of the interest payment
due to them as a holders of Senior Discount Notes.
Metallurg Holdings is a holding company with limited operations of its own.
Substantially all of Metallurg Holdings' operating income is generated by
Metallurg. As a result, Metallurg Holdings will rely upon distributions or
advances from Metallurg, Inc. to provide the funds necessary to meet its debt
service obligations. Metallurg Holdings currently does not expect to have
sufficient cash on hand to make future interest payments due on its Senior
Discount Notes. While Metallurg, Inc. may be able to distribute cash to
Metallurg Holdings for the purpose of making future interest payments,
Metallurg, Inc. is currently prohibited under Delaware law from paying dividends
because its total liabilities exceeded its total assets at December 31, 2003. In
addition, Metallurg, Inc. could be prohibited from making cash distributions at
such time under the restrictive covenants of its revolving credit facility with
Fleet National Bank. See "Note 12. Borrowings" to the Company's Consolidated
Financial Statements. All of Metallurg's outstanding common stock has been
pledged as collateral for Metallurg Holdings' obligations under the Senior
Discount Notes. If Metallurg Holdings were unable to make its interest payments
when due, it would lead to a foreclosure on its assets, principally the equity
of Metallurg, Inc., and create a default in accordance with the terms of
Metallurg, Inc.'s Senior Note indenture (see below).
Metallurg
There is no public trading market for Metallurg, Inc.'s equity securities,
all of which are owned by Metallurg Holdings.
On November 20, 1998, the Board of Directors of Metallurg, Inc. (the
"Board") adopted the Metallurg, Inc. 1998 Equity Compensation Plan (the "ECP").
Under the ECP, 500,000 shares of common stock are authorized for stock awards
and stock options. Pursuant to the ECP, from 1998 through 2003, the Board has
awarded to eligible executives and non-employee Board members options to
purchase an aggregate of 215,000 shares of common stock, net of cancellations
and forfeitures, at an exercise price of $30.00 per share. Such options have a
term of ten years and vest in most cases 20% on the date of grant and 20% on
each of the first four anniversaries of the date of grant.
Metallurg, Inc. did not issue any securities during 2003.
9
Metallurg, Inc. is currently prohibited under Delaware law from paying
dividends because its total liabilities exceeded its total assets at December
31, 2003. In addition, Metallurg, Inc. is restricted in the amount of dividends
payable to its shareholder as a result of the indenture for its 11% Senior Notes
due 2007 (the "Senior Notes"). Under the terms of the indenture, Metallurg, Inc.
is limited in its ability to make restricted payments, as defined and including,
among other things, minority investments in subsidiaries and dividend payments,
to a formula based on the cumulative net income since November 1, 1997 and
certain specified allowances. Under the terms of the formula, Metallurg, Inc.
was permitted to make future restricted payments in the amount of $7.5 million
as of December 31, 2003.
As discussed above, Metallurg, Inc. loaned Metallurg Holdings $1.5 million,
a restricted payment under the terms of its indenture, to pay interest on the
Senior Discount Notes held by non-related parties. In addition, Metallurg bought
a $5.1 million note from Metallurg Holdings with the proceeds of the interest
payment due to them as a holder of Senior Discount Notes. This is also a
restricted payment under the terms of Metallurg's indenture. As a result of
these two transactions, Metallurg's ability to make future restricted payments
is limited to $0.9 million.
In addition to the above restrictions under the Senior Note indenture,
Metallurg, Inc.'s revolving credit facility with Fleet National Bank limits the
payment of dividends and other payments to Metallurg Holdings. In order to
facilitate Metallurg Holdings' January 2004 interest payment due on the Senior
Discount Notes, Metallurg negotiated amendments to its revolving credit
agreement. See "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Financial Resources" and
"Note 12. Borrowings" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Metallurg, Inc. is a holding company with limited operations of its own.
Substantially all of Metallurg, Inc.'s operating income is generated by its
subsidiaries. As a result, Metallurg, Inc. will rely upon distributions or
advances from its subsidiaries to provide the funds necessary to meet its debt
service obligations. In some cases, however, Metallurg, Inc.'s subsidiaries are
restricted in their ability to pay dividends. LSM is party to a working capital
facility that limits its ability to pay dividends to an amount up to 100% of
LSM's annual net income.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The following table presents selected historical financial data of the
Company as of and for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2000 and the years ended
December 31, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003. All information in the table has been
restated to reflect the new reporting entity and the reclass of certain amounts
to discontinued operations. See "Note 3. Change in Reporting Entity" and "Note
4. Discontinued Operations" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Effective December 31, 2000, Metallurg Holdings and Metallurg, Inc. changed
from a fiscal year ending January 31 to a calendar year. As a result, the year
ended December 31, 2000 includes 11 months of results for Metallurg Holdings,
the parent holding company, and Metallurg, Inc., and, consistent with historical
reporting practice, the 12 months ended December 31, 2000 of results for its
operating subsidiaries.
Information as of and for the years ended January 31, 2000 and December 31,
2000 is derived from the consolidated financial statements of the Company, as
restated. Information as of and for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and
2003 is derived from the consolidated financial statements of the Company,
included elsewhere herein.
The information in this table should be read in conjunction with "Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and the consolidated financial statements of the Company, and
related notes thereto, included in "Item 8. Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data."
10
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(In thousands)
Year Ended
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
January 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2000 2000 2001 2002 2003
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Statement of Operations Data:
Total revenue ......................... $322,897 $361,285 $336,704 $277,781 $283,349
Gross profit .......................... 27,957 46,924 43,834 23,066 21,979
Operating income (loss) (a) ........... (1,034) (2,888) 12,258 (8,006) (52,133)
Extraordinary items, net of tax (b) ... -- 32,649 -- -- --
Net (loss) income ..................... (20,900) 32,067 (5,781) (22,714) (68,407)
January 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2000 2000 2001 2002 2003
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance Sheet Data:
Total assets .......................... $269,643 $262,350 $246,265 $255,188 $200,235
Total debt ............................ 180,928 204,721 157,912 162,776 168,672
(a) Includes:
o environmental expense recoveries of $5,501, $750, $631 and $3,000 for
the years ended January 31, 2000, and December 31, 2000, 2001 and
2002, respectively (See "Note 16. Environmental Liabilities" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements); and
o restructuring and asset impairment charges of $2,357, $3,510 and
$10,895 for the years ended January 31, 2000 and December 31, 2002 and
2003, respectively (See "Note 7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment
Charges" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements).
o goodwill impairment charge of $32,486 for the year ended December 31,
2003 (See "Note 9. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements).
(b) Reflects the extinguishment of certain Senior Discount Notes and the
write-off of related issuance costs (See "Note 5. Extraordinary Items" to
the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements).
11
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company's
consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto included
elsewhere in this report.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed under the captions "Business and Properties" and
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K may constitute
forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of
words such as "plans", "expect", "believe", "should", "could", "anticipate",
"intend" and other expressions that indicate future events or trends. All
statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including
statements about the Company's strategy for growth, product development, market
position, expenditures and financial results are forward-looking statements and
as such may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors
which may cause the actual results, performance and achievements of the Company
to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
Factors that may cause the Company's results to be materially different
include:
o The cyclical nature of Metallurg's business.
o Metallurg's dependence on foreign customers. Metallurg operates
throughout the world and derives a significant amount of its revenues
from outside of the U.S.
o The impact of changes in foreign exchange rates and foreign trade
regulations on Metallurg's competitive standing. Revenues and earnings
from outside the U.S. could be materially affected by exchange rate
fluctuations.
o The ability to complete a restructuring of its balance sheet on
favorable terms, if at all.
o The ability to meet debt service requirements.
o The availability of raw materials, particularly vanadium-containing
materials. See "Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties - Limited
Sources for Raw Materials".
o The impact of worldwide competition.
o The economic strength of Metallurg's markets generally and
particularly the strength of the demand for aluminum, superalloys,
titanium alloys, iron and steel in those markets.
o The impact of changes in technology and methods of marketing.
o The accuracy of Metallurg's estimates of the costs of environmental
remediation.
o The extension or expiration of existing anti-dumping duties. See
"Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties - Anti-Dumping Duties".
o The performance of world financial markets and the resulting effect on
pension expense of Metallurg's defined benefit plans.
o The possible disruption of business or increases in the cost of doing
business resulting from terrorist activities or global conflicts.
The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Overview
Metallurg Holdings was formed on June 10, 1998 and is wholly owned by a
group of investors led by and including Safeguard International, an
international private equity fund that invests primarily in equity securities of
companies in process industries. As Metallurg Holdings is a holding company and
does not have any material operations or assets other than the ownership of
Metallurg, Inc., the following discussions of the Company's results of
operations relate to Metallurg, unless otherwise indicated.
Metallurg is a leading international producer and seller of high-quality
specialty metals and metal alloys that are essential to the production of
high-performance aluminum and titanium alloys, specialty steels, superalloys and
certain non-metallic materials for various applications in the aerospace, power
supply, automotive, petrochemical processing, capital equipment and construction
industries. Metallurg operates production facilities in the U.K., the U.S. and
Brazil. Metallurg's products are primarily sold to one of three major market
sectors: the aluminum industry, the steel industry and the superalloy industry.
12
Overall operating conditions in each of these sectors have remained quite
challenging over the past few years with significant pressure on prices caused
by increased competition, lower overall demand from customers and lackluster
economic conditions worldwide. These difficult business conditions persisted
throughout most of 2003. Demand started to show signs of improvement in the
fourth quarter of 2003 due to higher economic activity in Europe, the Americas
and especially Asia. Additionally, a sharp decline in the U.S. dollar, in the
fourth quarter of 2003, caused prices for some of our products to rise as
foreign competitors increased prices to offset the negative effect of the
currency movement. While we cannot predict demand or prices in the markets we
serve, this discussion presents a general overview of each of our major market
sectors:
Demand from the aluminum market increased during the second half of the
year, coinciding with increased global economic activity. On the supply side,
there still exists a significant amount of excess, as well as idle, capacity in
the industry. While prices for aluminum increased during 2003, especially in the
second half, our main products - aluminum master alloys and compacted products -
continue to be subject to pricing pressure, primarily due to overcapacity.
Continuing consolidation in the aluminum industry also has contributed to the
pressure on prices for our products. These same conditions are expected to
continue in 2004, as the industry still faces overcapacity and significant price
competition. During January 2004, Metallurg decided to start the closure process
of its master alloy facility in Norway (Hydelko). Customers will continue to be
served from our facilities in the U.K. and Brazil. Metallurg continues to
implement cost reduction initiatives to offset price declines.
The domestic steel industry is operating at moderately high levels of
production. Industry fundamentals for the steel sector have improved from the
difficult conditions seen over the past few years, particularly as a result of
the consolidation of a number of producers within the industry and the weak U.S.
dollar. During 2003, fundamentals in the ferrovanadium market have changed as
several producers closed operations due to very low pricing over the past few
years. Due to a shortage of raw materials, Metallurg was forced to significantly
cut production rates at its processing facility in Ohio, adding to a lack of
ferrovanadium units in North America. Also, a labor strike at this facility
during the second half of the year impacted overall production rates. Demand for
ferrovanadium has recently improved, driven in part by increased demand for
ferrovanadium-containing steels in Chinese construction applications. The global
supply/demand outlook for ferrovanadium has changed, with Asia expected to
become a net importer of material instead of a net exporter. As a result, prices
for ferrovanadium steadily increased in 2003, and in early 2004, increased to
levels not seen since the mid 1990's. Metallurg has been unable to take
advantage of increased selling prices due to a shortage of raw materials and the
impact of the labor strike, which reduced production rates while increasing
operating costs. Efforts have been made in early 2004 to secure additional
sources of raw materials to lower production costs and enhance profitability.
The impact of these efforts is not expected to be realized until the second
quarter of 2004. Also in April 2004, the labor strike at Metallurg's vanadium
recycling facility in Ohio was settled.
The superalloy industry continues to be impacted by the downturn in the
commercial aerospace industry, as well as a reduction in power generation
projects and services (i.e., land-based turbines). Commercial production rates
for the aerospace industry are well below historical averages, especially in the
U.S. Due to the long lead times in this market, excess inventory has been a
factor leading to low prices and volumes for products supplied to this industry.
Metallurg does not expect the superalloy sector to show significant signs of
improvement in 2004.
Metallurg's financial performance over the past year has been adversely
impacted by increased competition, lower overall demand from customers and
lackluster economic conditions worldwide, which put significant downward
pressure on the selling price of Metallurg's products. As a result of these
circumstances, Metallurg has entered into amendments to its revolving credit
facility in the U.S. and its term loan facilities in the U.K. Certain of these
amendments provide additional availability, more flexible financial covenant
requirements and extended terms.
Metallurg Holdings currently does not expect to have sufficient cash on
hand to make the interest payments due on its Senior Discount Notes. As all of
Metallurg, Inc.'s outstanding common stock has been pledged as collateral for
Metallurg Holdings' obligations under the Senior Discount Notes, if Metallurg
Holdings were unable to make interest payments when due, it could lead to a
foreclosure on its assets, principally the equity of Metallurg, Inc. Such
foreclosure would create a default in accordance with the indenture terms of the
Senior Notes. In the event Metallurg is unable to modify the terms of its
existing credit facility or obtain other sources of capital and liquidity, it is
possible that Metallurg could be unable to satisfy other obligations as they
become due.
13
During 2003, Metallurg continued to restructure its businesses. Metallurg
took action to reduce costs at LSM through employee terminations and
discontinuing unprofitable businesses and in North America by consolidating
sales offices. In September 2003, Metallurg sold all of its interests in its
German facility engaged in the manufacture of low carbon ferrochrome; and its
Turkish chrome ore mines. In December 2003, Metallurg reached an agreement to
sell its South African sales office. This sale was completed in March 2004. See
"Note 4. Discontinued Operations" to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Results of Operations
The following information has been restated to reflect the new reporting
entity and the reclass of certain amounts to discontinued operations. See "Note
3. Change in Reporting Entity" and "Note 4. Discontinued Operations" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Intersegment
(In thousands) LSM SMC CIF Other Eliminations Consolidated
-------- -------- ------- -------- ------------ ------------
Year Ended December 31, 2003
Total revenue ..................... $168,216 $ 98,742 $33,196 $ 29,880 $(46,685) $283,349
Gross profit ...................... 14,072 2,483 2,182 3,365 (123) 21,979
SG&A .............................. 14,440 7,526 1,989 6,776 -- 30,731
Restructuring and asset
impairment charges ............. 10,358 -- -- 33,023 -- 43,381
Operating (loss) income ........... (10,726) (5,043) 193 (36,434) (123) (52,133)
Interest expense, net ............. (1,473) (462) (847) (15,377) -- (18,159)
Income tax (benefit) provision .... (235) (2,358) 22 2,308 -- (263)
Net loss .......................... (11,906) (3,147) (676) (89,011) 36,333 (68,407)
Year Ended December 31, 2002
Total revenue ..................... $160,978 $ 92,053 $32,869 $ 41,150 $(49,269) $277,781
Gross profit ...................... 12,606 1,078 2,960 4,809 1,613 23,066
SG&A .............................. 11,620 9,234 1,590 8,118 -- 30,562
Environmental expense recoveries .. -- (3,000) -- -- -- (3,000)
Restructuring and asset
impairment charges ............. 1,068 453 -- 1,989 -- 3,510
Operating (loss) income ........... (82) (5,609) 1,370 (5,298) 1,613 (8,006)
Interest expense, net ............. (1,509) (368) (745) (15,784) -- (18,406)
Income tax provision (benefit) .... 868 (2,026) 173 1,825 -- 840
Net (loss) income ................. (2,452) (3,951) 452 (20,728) 3,965 (22,714)
Year Ended December 31, 2001
Total revenue ..................... $173,161 $104,068 $39,383 $ 78,804 $(58,712) $336,704
Gross profit ...................... 14,192 4,248 7,978 17,832 (416) 43,834
SG&A .............................. 10,311 9,810 1,831 10,255 -- 32,207
Environmental expense recoveries -- (631) -- -- -- (631)
Operating income (loss) ........... 3,881 (4,931) 6,147 7,577 (416) 12,258
Interest expense, net ............. (1,651) (146) (982) (13,875) -- (16,654)
Income tax provision (benefit) .... 630 (2,925) 1,678 3,168 -- 2,551
Net income (loss) ................. 1,795 (2,152) 3,487 13,450 (22,361) (5,781)
14
Year Ended December 31, 2003 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2002
Total Revenue
Consolidated total revenue increased by $5.6 million (2%) in the year ended
December 31, 2003.
LSM revenue was $7.2 million (4%) higher than the year ended December 31,
2002. Sales of aluminum master alloys and compacted products increased by $3.7
million, primarily as a result of a 4% increase in sales volume. Sales of
aluminum powder rose by $0.4 million, due to product mix, which resulted in
higher average selling price. Sales of ferrotitanium were $2.4 million higher,
due to a 20% increase in average unit selling prices, despite a 4% decrease in
sales volumes. Sales of metal powders rose by $2.4 million as a result of
increases in both sales volume and average selling prices. Sales of chrome
products were lower by $1.9 million due to a 9% decrease in sales volume.
SMC revenue was $6.7 million (7%) higher than the year ended December 31,
2002. Sales of compacted aluminum products increased by $4.9 million, despite a
drop in average selling prices, as a result of an increase of 47% in shipments.
Sales of vanadium products, produced in SMC's Ohio plant, increased by $3.0
million as a result of increased average selling prices, despite a drop in sales
volume due to lack of raw materials. Sales of niobium products fell by $3.3
million, primarily as a result of a drop in shipments of ferroniobium to the
steel industry. Sales of chrome products were higher by $3.0 million due to an
11% increase in sales volume.
CIF revenue was $0.3 million (1%) higher than the year ended December 31,
2002. Sales of aluminum master alloys increased by $1.2 million, primarily as a
result of a 5% increase in selling prices. Sales of tantalum and niobium
products decreased by $1.1 million, due to a drop in demand and lower selling
prices.
Revenue from operations included in "Other" declined by $11.3 million in
the year ended December 31, 2003, primarily due to a drop in demand and selling
prices of tantalum products.
Gross Profit
Consolidated gross profit decreased to $22.0 million (7.8% of total
revenue) for the year ended December 31, 2003 from $23.1 million (8.3% of total
revenue) for the year ended December 31, 2002.
LSM gross profit was $1.5 million (12%) higher than the year ended December
31, 2002. Gross profits from chrome products increased by $1.7 million as a
result of the improved product costs. Gross profits from aluminum master alloys,
compacted aluminum products and aluminum powder decreased by $0.5 million.
Higher unit costs, resulting from price competition and oversupply in the
industry, offset increased volumes.
SMC gross profit was $1.4 million (130%) higher than the year ended
December 31, 2002. Gross profit from aluminum products rose by $2.0 million, due
to increased shipments and lower costs resulting from the restructuring of
operations during 2002. Gross profit from chrome products rose by $0.8 million,
due to improved volume and selling prices, particularly from lower grade
products sold to the steel industry. Gross profit from vanadium products
decreased by $1.3 million, as average costs rose faster than an increase in
average selling prices.
CIF gross profit was $0.8 million (26%) below the year ended December 31,
2002 due to higher unit costs on aluminum products.
Gross profit from operations included in "Other" was $1.4 million (30%)
below the year ended December 31, 2002 due primarily to decreased margins on
tantalum products resulting from a decline in selling prices.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses ("SG&A")
SG&A was virtually unchanged at $30.7 million for the year ended December
31, 2003 versus $30.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2002. For the year
ended December 31, 2003, SG&A represented 10.8% of total revenue compared to
11.0% for the year ended December 31, 2002.
15
Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges, Net
Metallurg Holdings performs an annual review of goodwill to determine
possible impairment. As a result of continuing operating losses at all of the
production facilities, Metallurg Holdings has determined that it will be unable
to recover the carrying value of its goodwill at December 31, 2003 and recorded
an impairment of the goodwill of $32.5 million included in "Other" in the table
above.
As a result of continuing weakness in operating performance, particularly
in its metal catalyst and aluminum businesses, LSM implemented a restructuring
plan in September 2003 designed to streamline production, improve productivity
and reduce costs. Due to a significant deterioration in its metal catalyst
business, LSM determined that certain of its plant assets were impaired because
recovery of the net book values from projected future undiscounted cash flows
could no longer be expected. In the third quarter of 2003, LSM recognized a $2.2
million non-cash impairment loss, which reduced the carrying value of these
assets to zero. Plant operations ceased in the fourth quarter of 2003 and the
plant assets were abandoned.
As a result of continuing losses in its aluminum business due to aggressive
price competition and industry wide over-capacity, LSM determined that its plant
assets in Norway were similarly impaired. In the fourth quarter of 2003, LSM
recognized a non-cash impairment loss of approximately $4.5 million for
impairments of fixed assets and goodwill related to these operations. In 2004,
LSM announced that it would close down the Norwegian plant. In the fourth
quarter of 2003, LSM also accrued severance costs of approximately $3.7 million
relating to workforce reductions of 62 employees at its Rotherham, U.K.
location.
In a continuing effort to improve Metallurg's competitive position and to
reduce costs, a plan was implemented in the third quarter of 2003 to consolidate
sales and administrative functions performed by Metallurg's Canadian operations
into the New Jersey operations of SMC. As a result of this plan, Metallurg
recognized a pre-tax restructuring charge of $0.4 million, for severance costs
of seven employees. Activities of the Canadian entity are expected to cease
completely in the first quarter of 2004. Also in 2003, Metallurg transferred
certain sales and administrative functions for tantalum and niobium products
from its headquarters location to its production facilities in Brazil. As a
result, severance costs of $0.1 million for two employees were recorded at
December 31, 2003.
During 2002, Metallurg carried out a restructuring program intended to
reduce the cost structure at corporate headquarters, LSM and SMC. The
restructuring plan included the discontinuation of certain production
activities, the termination of employees and the write-down of redundant plant
and equipment. A charge of $3.5 million was incurred in the year ended December
31, 2002, primarily for severance costs of terminated employees.
See "Note 7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges" to the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Operating (Loss) Income
There was an operating loss of $52.1 million for the year ended December
31, 2003 compared to an operating loss of $8.0 million for the year ended
December 31, 2002, due primarily to the restructuring and asset impairment
charges, discussed above. In addition, SMC recognized an environmental expense
recovery of $3.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2002.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, was as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------
2003 2002
-------- --------
Interest income....................................... $ 974 $ 607
Interest expense...................................... (19,133) (19,013)
-------- --------
Interest expense, net.............................. $(18,159) $(18,406)
======== ========
16
Income Tax (Benefit) Provision
Income tax (benefit) provision was as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------
2003 2002
----- ----
Total current......................................... $(171) $524
Total deferred........................................ (92) 316
----- ----
Income tax (benefit) provision..................... $(263) $840
===== ====
The difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and the
Company's effective rate of 0.4% for the year ended December 31, 2003, is
principally due to: (i) the excess of statutory federal income tax rates over
foreign tax rates; (ii) certain deductible temporary differences, principally
domestic net operating losses, which in other circumstances would have generated
a deferred tax benefit, have been fully provided for in a valuation allowance;
and (iii) taxes paid on foreign dividends. See "Note 14. Income Taxes" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Net Loss
The Company had a net loss of $68.4 million for the year ended December 31,
2003 compared to a net loss of $22.7 million for the year ended December 31,
2002 due primarily to operating results and the restructuring and asset
impairment charges discussed above. Net losses also included income from
discontinued operations of $1.4 million and $2.3 million, net for the years
ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. See "Note 4. Discontinued
Operations" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Year Ended December 31, 2002 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2001
Total Revenue
Consolidated total revenue decreased by $58.9 million (17%) in the year
ended December 31, 2002.
LSM revenue was $12.2 million (7%) lower than the year ended December 31,
2001. Niobium product sales declined by $7.1 million after an agency agreement
for ferroniobium was terminated at the end of 2001. Sales of chrome products,
primarily chrome metal, fell by $3.4 million, as both demand and prices fell.
Sales of aluminum powder fell by $1.6 million as a drop in average selling price
more than offset a small increase in volume. Sales of nickel boron and other
nickel products fell by $1.2 million, primarily as a result of a fall in market
prices. Demand for compacted aluminum products fell, causing a $0.4 million
decrease in sales despite an increase in unit selling prices. Demand for
aluminum master alloys increased, but total sales rose by only $0.4 million as a
result of a fall in selling prices. Sales of metal powders rose by $0.6 million,
despite a 25% increase in volume, as average unit selling prices declined. Sales
of titanium products, primarily ferrotitanium, were $1.0 million higher, mainly
due to a small increase in average unit selling prices.
SMC revenue was $12.0 million (12%) lower than the year ended December 31,
2001. Sales of chrome products fell by $9.8 million, due to a 38% decline in
demand, offset by a 12% improvement in unit prices. Niobium products sales fell
by $0.9 million primarily as a result of a drop in unit selling prices. Sales of
vanadium products, produced in SMC's Ohio plant, fell by $0.4 million despite a
small strengthening of prices, as demand weakened slightly. Sales of aluminum
products increased by $1.4 million, primarily due to an increase in volume of
compacted products, partly offset by a 20% drop in average selling prices.
CIF revenue was $6.5 million (17%) lower than the year ended December 31,
2001. Tantalum sales fell by $10.2 million following a drop in world demand and
a return to more typical prices than those seen in 2000 and 2001. Despite a 6%
drop in prices, sales of aluminum products rose by $3.0 million due to increased
sales volume of aluminum master alloys following the transfer of melting
operations from SMC.
Revenue from operations included in "Other" declined by $37.7 million in
the year ended December 31, 2002, primarily due to the drop in tantalum demand
and prices, discussed above.
17
Gross Profit
Consolidated gross profit decreased to $23.1 million (8.3% of total
revenue) for the year ended December 31, 2002 from $43.8 million (13.0% of total
revenue) for the year ended December 31, 2001.
LSM gross profit was $1.6 million (11%) below the year ended December 31,
2001. Gross profits from compacted aluminum products fell $0.7 million as the
increase in unit production costs exceeded the increase in sales prices. Gross
profits on niobium products fell by $0.5 million to virtually zero following the
termination of the agency agreement (see above). Gross profit from chrome
products fell by $0.4 million as a result of the decrease in demand discussed
above. Gross profits from nickel boron and other nickel products fell by $0.4
million primarily as a result of a fall in market prices. Gross profit from
titanium products improved by $0.7 million as a result of increased selling
prices. Aluminum powder gross profits increased by $1.3 million mainly due to an
improved product mix which resulted in increased average margins.
SMC gross profit was $3.2 million (75%) below the year ended December 31,
2001. Unit costs of aluminum master alloys would have been lower than in 2001
except for inventory write-downs and other costs relating to the transfer of
aluminum melting operations to CIF. Combined with a drop in selling prices, this
resulted in a drop in gross profit of $1.7 million. Gross profit from chrome
products fell by $1.6 million as a result of the drop in volume discussed above.
Gross profit from vanadium products declined by $0.7 million as a result of an
increase in unit production costs. The increase in volumes of compacted products
resulted in a drop in average unit cost and an increase in gross profit of $1.2
million.
CIF gross profit was $5.0 million (63%) below the year ended December 31,
2001. A $5.5 million (90%) decline in gross profits from tantalum and niobium
products, following the price correction discussed above, was partially offset
by an increase of $0.5 million in profits from aluminum master alloys following
the transfer of melting operations from SMC and the resulting volume increase.
Gross profit from operations included in "Other" was $13.0 million (73%)
below the year ended December 31, 2001 due primarily to decreased margins on
tantalum products resulting from the decline in selling prices (see above).
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A decreased to $30.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2002 from $32.2
million for the year ended December 31, 2001, a decrease of $1.6 million (5%).
An increase in pension expense, primarily $1.5 million at LSM, was mostly offset
by reductions in compensation and other expenses resulting from the
restructuring program discussed below. The year ended December 31, 2001 included
$2.0 million of goodwill amortization. Goodwill amortization ceased in 2002
following the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS")
No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets", on January 1, 2002. For the
year ended December 31, 2002, SG&A represented 11.0% of total revenue compared
to 9.6% for the year ended December 31, 2001.
Restructuring Charges
During 2002, Metallurg carried out a restructuring program intended to
reduce the cost structure at corporate headquarters, LSM and SMC. The
restructuring plan includes the discontinuation of certain production
activities, the termination of employees and the write-down of redundant plant
and equipment. A charge of $3.5 million was incurred in the year ended December
31, 2002, primarily for severance costs of terminated employees.
At corporate headquarters, Metallurg, Inc. recorded a restructuring charge
of $2.0 million for severance costs of four corporate executives and five
administrative employees, all of who were terminated during the year. Under the
terms of their employment and severance agreements, the severance will be paid
over a period of up to 18 months. Of this amount, $0.5 million was paid as of
December 31, 2002.
LSM recorded a restructuring charge of 'L'0.7 million ($1.1 million)
for severance costs of 18 production employees and 11 administrative employees
who were terminated during the year. The entire amount was paid during the year.
18
SMC recorded a restructuring charge of $0.5 million of which $0.4 million
was for severance costs of one executive, 16 production employees and nine
administrative employees, all of whom were terminated during the year. Of this
amount, $0.2 million had been paid by December 31, 2002. The remaining $0.1
million was for the write-down of property and equipment no longer used in
operations.
See "Note 7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges" to the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Operating (Loss) Income
There was an operating loss of $8.0 million for the year ended December 31,
2002 compared to operating income of $12.3 million for the year ended December
31, 2001, due primarily to the decrease in gross profit and the restructuring
charges, discussed above. In addition, SMC recognized environmental expense
recoveries of $3.0 million and $0.6 million for the years ended December 31,
2002 and 2001, respectively.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, was as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------
2002 2001
-------- --------
Interest income....................................... $ 607 $ 1,507
Interest expense...................................... (19,013) (18,161)
-------- --------
Interest expense, net.............................. $(18,406) $(16,654)
======== ========
Interest income decreased as a result of lower cash balances, primarily in
the U.S. See "Note 12. Borrowings" to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Income Tax Provision, Net
Income tax provision, net of tax benefits, was as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------
2002 2001
---- ------
Total current......................................... $524 $1,944
Total deferred........................................ 316 607
---- ------
Income tax provision, net.......................... $840 $2,551
==== ======
The difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and the
Company's effective rate of (3.2)% for the year ended December 31, 2002, is
principally due to: (i) certain deductible temporary differences, principally
domestic net operating losses, which in other circumstances would have generated
a deferred tax benefit, have been fully provided for in a valuation allowance;
(ii) taxes paid on foreign dividends; and (iii) the excess of foreign tax rates
over the statutory federal income tax rate. See "Note 14. Income Taxes" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Net (Loss) Income
The Company had a net loss of $22.7 million for the year ended December 31,
2002 compared to $5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2001. Net loss
also included income from discontinued operations of $2.3 million and $1.0
million, net for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. See
"Note 4. Discontinued Operations" to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Liquidity and Financial Resources
General
The Company's sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, cash
from operations and amounts available under credit facilities. At December 31,
2003, the Company had $18.6 million in cash and cash equivalents and working
capital of $63.4 million as compared to $24.3 million and $73.3 million,
respectively, at December 31, 2002.
19
The Company's financial performance over the past year, however, has been
adversely impacted by increased competition, lower overall demand from customers
and lackluster economic conditions worldwide, which put significant downward
pressure on the selling price of the Company's products. As a result of these
circumstances, the Metallurg, Inc. has entered into amendments to its revolving
credit facility in the U.S. and its term loan facilities in the U.K. Certain of
these amendments provide additional availability, more flexible financial
covenant requirements and extended terms.
The Company does not expect to have sufficient cash on hand to make the
interest payments due on the Senior Discount Notes. As all of Metallurg, Inc.'s
outstanding common stock has been pledged as collateral for Metallurg Holdings'
obligations under the Senior Discount Notes, if Metallurg Holdings were unable
to make interest payments when due, it could lead to a foreclosure on its
assets, principally the equity of Metallurg, Inc. Such foreclosure would create
a default in accordance with the indenture terms of the Senior Notes and result
in an acceleration of $100 million of Senior Note indebtedness.
On June 1, 2004, Metallurg did not make the $5.5 million semi-annual
interest payment due on such date in respect of its Senior Notes. Under the
terms of the indenture governing the Senior Notes, Metallurg's failure to make
the interest payment may be cured within 30 days. If such payment default is not
cured within the 30-day grace period, an event of default will occur in respect
of the Senior Notes as well as under the Revolving Credit Facility (described
below). In addition, in the event that the maturity of the Senior Notes or the
Revolving Credit Facility is accelerated as a result of such an event of
default, an event of default will occur under the Senior Discount Notes of
Metallurg Holdings. As all of Metallurg's outstanding common stock has been
pledged as collateral for the Metallurg Holdings' obligations under the Senior
Discount Notes, if Metallurg is unable to make its interest payments when due,
it could lead to a foreclosure on Metallurg's common stock.
Metallurg is highly leveraged. Interest payments of $5.5 million are due in
both June and December 2004 on the Senior Notes. In addition, Metallurg, Inc.'s
Revolving Credit Facility, as described below, with an outstanding amount of
$21.1 million at December 31, 2003, consisting of outstanding letters of credit,
is scheduled to expire on October 29, 2004. Metallurg is currently in compliance
with the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility, as amended. In the event the
Company does not succeed in its restructuring efforts, described below, it is
likely that liquidity will be inadequate to enable the Company to continue to
make the interest payments required with respect to the Senior Discount Notes
and the Senior Notes and repay the Revolving Credit Facility.
In March 2004, Metallurg, Inc. retained Compass Advisers, LLP, as
financial advisors, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, LLP, as legal
counsel, to assist the Company in analyzing and evaluating possible transactions
for the principal purpose of refinancing the Revolving Credit Facility and
restructuring the balance sheets of the Company and Metallurg. Metallurg is
currently engaged in negotiations with potential lenders regarding a refinancing
of the Revolving Credit Facility. The Company neither expresses any opinion nor
gives any assurances whatsoever regarding whether, when, or on what terms it
will be able to refinance the Revolving Credit Facility or complete any broader
restructuring of its or Metallurg's respective balance sheets. Management
believes that the refinancing and restructuring is essential to the long-term
viability of the Company. If the Company and Metallurg are not able to reach
agreements that favorably resolve these issues, the Company likely will not have
adequate liquidity to enable it to make the interest payments required with
respect to its Senior Discount Notes, and Metallurg likely will not have
adequate liquidity to enable it to make the interest payments required with
respect to its Senior Notes, or to repay the Revolving Credit Facility. In such
event, the Company and Metallurg may have to resort to certain other measures to
resolve its liquidity issues, including having the Company or Metallurg, or both
companies, ultimately seek the protection afforded under the United States
Bankruptcy Code. Furthermore, any negotiated refinancing of the Revolving Credit
Facility or negotiated restructuring of the respective balance sheets of the
Company and Metallurg may require that the Company or Metallurg, or both such
companies, seek the protection afforded under the reorganization provisions of
the United States Bankruptcy Code.
The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments, which
could be significant, relating to the recoverability and classification of
recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that
might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
Cash Flow Information
Cash Flows from Operating Activities - Cash used in operating activities
was $17.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, compared to $7.4 million
of cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2002.
Both periods included interest payments of $11.0 million on the Senior Notes. In
2003, the use of cash resulted from a net loss, adjusted for depreciation and
other non-cash items, and cash payments for restructuring accruals. In 2002, a
net loss, adjusted for depreciation and other non-cash items, was more than
offset by a decrease in working capital. SMC realized an environmental expense
recovery upon receipt of $3.0 million in 2002, upon settlement with an insurance
company relating to coverage for certain environmental claims.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities - Net cash used in investing
activities decreased to $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, from
$14.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2002. Capital expenditures were
$7.7 million lower in 2003. In addition, Metallurg received a repayment of $1.0
million in 2003 on the $7.0 million loan made to a former German subsidiary at
the time of its sale in 2002.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities - Cash provided by financing
activities was $12.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, compared to
$7.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2002. Cash proceeds of $10.0
million in 2003 and $3.5 million in 2002, from the sales of certain businesses
to members of a common controlled group, were recorded as capital contributions
in accordance with prescribed accounting principles. Dividends received from
these entities prior to their sales have been reclassified as capital
contributions in all periods presented. See "Note 3. Change in Reporting Entity"
to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
20
Credit Facilities and Other Financing Arrangements
Revolving Credit Facility - Metallurg, Inc., SMC and certain of Metallurg,
Inc.'s other subsidiaries (the "Borrowers") have a credit facility with certain
financial institutions led by Fleet National Bank as agent (the "Revolving
Credit Facility"), which expires in October 2004. This facility, as amended in
October 2003 and in January 2004, provides the Borrowers with up to $27.0
million for working capital requirements and general corporate purposes.
Interest is charged at a rate per annum equal to (i) LIBOR, plus 2.0% - 3.5% or
(ii) Prime, plus up to 1.0%, based on the performance of Metallurg, Inc. and
certain of its subsidiaries (the "North American Group"), as defined in the
Revolving Credit Facility. Interest rates on amounts borrowed are adjusted
quarterly, based on the North American Group's fixed charge coverage ratio. The
Borrowers are required to pay a fee of 0.25% - 0.50% per annum on the unused
portion of the facility. The total amount the Borrowers may borrow at any time
is limited to a borrowing base calculation that is based on eligible accounts
receivable, inventory and special cash collateral, as defined. At December 31,
2003, there were no borrowings under this facility; however, outstanding letters
of credit totaled $21.1 million. In addition, the Borrowers had unused borrowing
capacity of $0.5 million under this facility.
The Revolving Credit Facility limits Metallurg, Inc.'s ability to make
dividend payments and other payments to Metallurg Holdings. In addition, the
Borrowers and certain subsidiaries were required to comply with various
covenants, including the maintenance of minimum liquidity, as defined in the
agreement, at a $10.0 million level. Liquidity, as defined, was $10.5 million at
December 31, 2003. On January 14, 2004, the Revolving Credit Facility was
amended and the minimum liquidity covenant was eliminated. In its place,
Metallurg was required to deposit a total of $7.0 million into a restricted
cash account.
LSM Revolving Credit Facilities - LSM has revolving credit facilities with
Barclays Bank plc ("Barclays") and HSBC Bank plc ("HSBC"). In 2003, these
overdraft facilities were reduced by 'L'2.0 million ($3.6 million). These
facilities now provide LSM with up to 'L'5.5 million ($9.8 million) of
borrowings, 'L'40.3 million ($71.7 million) of foreign exchange contracts
and options and 'L'4.0 million ($7.1 million) for other ancillary banking
arrangements, including bank guarantees. Borrowings under these facilities are
secured by the assets of LSM and are repayable on demand. Outstanding loans
under these facilities bear interest at rates of LIBOR plus 1.5% to 1.75%. At
December 31, 2003, there were no borrowings under these facilities. LSM's
Norwegian subsidiary has an unsecured overdraft facility of NOK 15.0 million
($2.2 million). Borrowings under this facility bear interest at a rate of NIBOR
plus 1.25%. At December 31, 2003, there was NOK 9.8 million ($1.5 million)
outstanding under this facility.
LSM Term Loans - In December 2003, LSM refinanced its four revolving term
loan facilities with Barclays and HSBC into two new term loans. The loan with
Barclays is for 'L'6.0 million ($10.7 million) for a term of three years and
bears interest at LIBOR plus 1.75%. Quarterly repayments of 'L'0.2 million
($0.3 million) commence in June 2004. The loan with HSBC is for 'L'6.0
million ($10.7 million) for a term of five years and bears interest at LIBOR
plus 1.65%. Quarterly repayments of 'L'0.2 million ($0.4 million) commence
in July 2004. These term loan facilities are secured by the assets of LSM and
require LSM to comply with various covenants, including the maintenance of
minimum tangible net worth and interest coverage. The Norwegian subsidiary has
an unsecured term loan with a remaining balance of NOK 6.8 million ($1.0
million). This term loan incurs interest at NIBOR plus 1.25% and will be repaid
in 2004 after the closure of this facility.
Other - CIF maintains short-term secured and unsecured borrowing
arrangements with various banks totaling $5.4 million. Borrowings under these
arrangements aggregated $4.3 million at December 31, 2003 at a weighted-average
interest rate of 9.9%.
21
Contractual Cash Obligations
As described in Notes 12 and 18 to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements at December 31, 2003, the Company is obligated to make future
payments under various contracts, such as debt and lease agreements. Significant
contractual cash obligations of the Company are as follows (in millions):
Payments Due By Period
----------------------------------------------------
Less than After
Total 1 year 2-3 years 4-5 years 5 years
------ --------- --------- --------- -------
Contractual Cash Obligations:
Long-term debt ............................... $162.9 $ 2.5 $ 5.1 $145.3 $10.0
Interest on Senior Discount Notes............. 25.7 5.1 10.3 10.3 --
Interest on Senior Notes...................... 44.0 11.0 22.0 11.0 --
Non-cancelable operating leases............... 2.5 0.8 0.9 0.5 0.3
Committed purchase obligations (a)............ 76.6 29.8 21.7 10.6 14.5
Pension plan contributions (b)................ 4.7 4.7 -- -- --
------ ----- ----- ------ -----
Total contractual cash obligations......... $316.4 $53.9 $60.0 $177.7 $24.8
====== ===== ===== ====== =====
- ----------
(a) Represents purchase orders on hand at December 31, 2003, primarily for the
purchase of inventory in the normal course of business.
(b) Only included in first period. Information is not available for subsequent
periods.
Capital Expenditures
Metallurg invested $2.9 million in capital projects during the year ended
December 31, 2003. Metallurg's capital expenditures include projects related to
improving Metallurg's operations, productivity improvements, replacement
projects and ongoing environmental requirements (which are in addition to
expenditures discussed in "Environmental Remediation Costs" below). Capital
expenditures are projected to increase to approximately $3.8 million for the
year ended December 31, 2004, including $1.7 million of capital investments
which Metallurg believes will result in decreased costs of production, improved
efficiency and expanded production capacities. The remaining capital
expenditures planned are primarily for replacement and repairs of existing
facilities. Although Metallurg has projected these items for the year ended
December 31, 2004, Metallurg has not committed purchases to vendors for all of
these projects, as some projects remain contingent on final approvals and other
conditions and the actual timing of expenditures may extend into 2005. Metallurg
believes that these projects will be funded through existing and future
internally generated cash and credit lines.
Environmental Remediation Costs
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' Statement of Position
96-1, "Environmental Remediation Liabilities," states that losses associated
with environmental remediation obligations are accrued when such losses are
deemed probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals generally are recognized
no later than the completion of the remedial feasibility study and are adjusted
as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future
expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are generally not
discounted to their present value. During the year ended December 31, 2003,
Metallurg spent $2.4 million for environmental remediation.
In 1997, SMC entered into settlement agreements with various environmental
regulatory authorities with regard to all of the significant environmental
remediation liabilities of which it is aware. Pursuant to these agreements, SMC
has agreed to perform environmental remediation, which, as of December 31, 2003,
had an estimated net cost of completion of $25.6 million, net of trust funds of
$3.9 million. Of this amount, $3.0 million is expected to be expended in 2004,
$4.9 million in 2005 and $3.0 million in 2006. These amounts have been accrued
for in prior years and are reflected in Metallurg's balance sheet liabilities.
See "Note 16. Environmental Liabilities" to the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
While its remediation obligations and other environmental costs, in the
aggregate, will reduce its liquidity, Metallurg believes its cash balance, cash
from operations and cash available under its credit facilities are sufficient to
fund its current and anticipated future requirements for environmental
expenditures.
22
Market Risk
Metallurg is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates,
interest rates and certain commodity prices. Derivative instruments used to
manage these exposures involve little complexity and are not used for
speculative purposes. The counterparties of these instruments are diversified
financial institutions. Metallurg monitors the concentration risk to limit its
counterparty exposure.
Foreign Currency Exposures - Metallurg actively manages foreign currency
exposures that are associated with foreign currency purchases and sales and
other assets and liabilities created in the normal course of business at the
operating unit level. Metallurg uses forward contracts to mitigate exposures
that cannot be naturally offset within an operating unit. See "Note 13.
Financial Instruments" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest Rate Exposures - Metallurg has exposure to interest rate risk from
its short-term and certain long-term debt. While the rates on Metallurg's
long-term debt are generally fixed, LSM has term loans of 'L'12.0 million
($21.3 million) at variable rates. In December 2003, in conjunction with the
refinancing of its revolving term loan facilities, LSM terminated the zero
premium interest rate collar it had entered into in 2001 to hedge the interest
on this variable rate long-term debt. See "Note 12. Borrowings" to the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Commodity Price Exposures - Metallurg is exposed to volatility in the
prices of raw materials used in some of its products and uses forward contracts
to manage some of those exposures. Where Metallurg does not take physical
delivery of the raw material under the forward contract, gains and losses on
these derivatives are recognized currently in earnings.
Going Concern
In January 2004, Metallurg Holdings did not have sufficient cash on hand to
make the interest payment due on its Senior Discount Notes. Therefore,
Metallurg, Inc. loaned Metallurg Holdings $1.5 million, a restricted payment
under the terms of Metallurg's indenture, to pay interest on the Senior Discount
Notes held by non-related parties. In addition, Metallurg bought a $5.1 million
note from Metallurg Holdings with the proceeds of the interest payment due to
them as a holder of Senior Discount Notes. This is also a restricted payment
under the terms of Metallurg's indenture. As a result of these two transactions,
Metallurg's ability to make future restricted payments is limited to $0.9
million. As all of Metallurg, Inc.'s outstanding common stock has been pledged
as collateral for Metallurg Holdings' obligations under the Senior Discount
Notes, if Metallurg Holdings were unable to make interest payments when due, it
would lead to a foreclosure on its assets, principally the equity of Metallurg,
Inc., and create a default in accordance with the terms of the Senior Note
indenture.
Related Party Transactions
In September 2003, the Company sold all of its ownership interests in its
Weisweiler, Germany manufacturing facility and its Turkish chrome ore mines to
LAGO, a German company and an affiliate of Safeguard International, the majority
owner of Metallurg Holdings. See "Note 3. Change in Reporting Entity" to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Accounts receivable and payable balances between the Company and affiliates
of Safeguard International are shown as related party balances on the Company's
Consolidated Balance Sheets.
A note receivable from the German subsidiary sold in December 2002 is shown
as a related party balance on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. This
note is subordinated and accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum. Principal
and interest payments are due from 2006 through 2010 and may be repaid prior to
maturity under certain circumstances.
Dr. Schimmelbusch and Mr. Spector are managing directors of the management
company for Safeguard International, the majority owner of Metallurg Holdings,
and in these positions receive compensation from this entity.
23
Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make judgments, estimates
and assumptions regarding uncertainties that affect the reported amounts of
assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the
reported amounts of revenues and expenses. In applying the Company's significant
accounting policies, as more fully discussed in "Note 2. Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies", management uses its judgment to determine the appropriate
assumptions to be used in the determination of certain estimates. Those
estimates are based on historical experience, terms of existing contracts,
observances of trends in the industry, information provided by Metallurg's
customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.
Estimates and assumptions about future events and their effects cannot be
perceived with certainty and accordingly, these estimates may change as new
events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is
obtained and as Metallurg's operating environment changes. The Company deems the
following estimates and accounting policies to be critical:
Inventories
Metallurg's inventory is a significant component of current assets and is
stated at the lower of cost or market. Metallurg regularly estimates the net
realizable value of inventories on hand and adjusts the carrying amounts of
these inventories to market value, less a normal profit margin, as necessary.
Significant or unanticipated changes to market values of these items could
impact the amount and timing of any such adjustments that may be required. Such
provisions were not significant in the periods presented.
Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109,
"Accounting for Income Taxes", which requires that deferred tax assets and
liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary
differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities.
SFAS No. 109 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation
allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred
tax asset will not be realized.
The Company evaluates quarterly the realizability of its deferred tax
assets by assessing its valuation allowance and by adjusting the amount of such
allowance, if necessary. The factors used to assess the likelihood of
realization are the Company's forecast of future taxable income and available
tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred
tax assets. The Company has used tax-planning strategies to realize net deferred
tax assets in order to avoid the potential loss of future tax benefits. Failure
to achieve forecasted taxable income might affect the ultimate realization of
the net deferred tax assets. Factors that may affect the Company's ability to
achieve sufficient forecasted taxable income include, but are not limited to,
the following: a decline in sales or margins, increased competition or loss of
market share. In addition, the Company operates within multiple taxing
jurisdictions and is subject to audit in these jurisdictions. These audits can
involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve.
In management's opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes and valuation
allowances against deferred taxes have been made for all years.
Environmental Remediation Costs
Losses associated with environmental remediation obligations are accrued
when such losses are deemed probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals
generally are recognized no later than the completion of the remedial
feasibility study and are adjusted as further information develops or
circumstances change. Significant judgment is required in developing assumptions
and estimating costs to be incurred for environmental remediation activities due
to, among other factors, the complexity of environmental regulations and
remediation technologies. Metallurg enters into agreements (e.g., administrative
orders, consent decrees) that generally cover many years. Management must assess
the type of technology to be used to accomplish the remediation as well as the
continually evolving regulatory environment in evaluating costs associated with
these sites. These factors are considered in management's estimates of the
timing and amount of any future costs that may be necessary for remedial
actions. Given the level of judgments and estimation as described above, it is
likely that materially different amounts could be recorded if different
assumptions were used or if underlying circumstances were to change (e.g., a
significant change in environmental standards).
24
Long-Lived Asset Impairment
The Company's recent history includes years with unprofitable results and
negative cash flows. This history of losses is an indication that the carrying
amounts of the Company's long-lived assets might not be recoverable from future
cash flows. The Company periodically evaluates its long-lived assets by
comparing estimated future undiscounted cash flows using the particular cash
flow assumptions that are considered most likely to occur. Significant judgment
is required to estimate future cash flows, including the impact of future
prices, production and shipment levels, cost reduction initiatives, prices of
inputs like raw materials and energy and future capital requirements. Management
uses its best judgment to assess these factors. In 2003, the Company concluded
that certain assets in LSM were impaired as the net carrying value of applicable
net assets exceeded the related undiscounted cash flows. See "Note 7.
Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges" to the Company's Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Goodwill
The Company accounts for goodwill in accordance with SFAS No. 142,
"Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets". Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill is no
longer amortized but is tested for impairment using a fair value approach at the
"reporting unit" level. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business
one level below that operating segment (the "component" level) if discrete
financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management at the
component level. An impairment loss is recognized for any amount by which the
carrying amount of a reporting unit's goodwill exceeds its fair value. The
Company uses discounted cash flows to establish fair values and uses comparative
market multiples, where available and as appropriate, to corroborate discounted
cash flow results. When a reporting unit, or a business within a reporting unit,
is disposed of, goodwill is allocated to the gain or loss on disposition using
the relative fair value method.
SFAS No. 142 requires goodwill to be tested for impairment annually at the
same time every year, and also when an event occurs or circumstances change such
that it is reasonably possible that an impairment may exist. The Company
selected December 31 as its annual testing date. As a result of continuing
operating losses at all of the production facilities, Metallurg Holdings has
determined that it will be unable to recover the carrying value of its goodwill
at December 31, 2003 and recorded an impairment of the goodwill of $32.5
million. See "Note 9. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" to the Company's
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Pensions
Metallurg maintains defined benefit plans for its employees in the U.S.,
the U.K. and Norway. Several statistical and other factors that attempt to
anticipate future events are used in calculating the expense and liability
related to the plans. These factors include assumptions about the discount rate,
expected return on plan assets and rate of future compensation increases as
determined by Metallurg, within certain guidelines. In addition, Metallurg's
actuarial consultants also use subjective factors such as employee turnover and
mortality rates to estimate these factors.
U.S. Plans - The rate used to discount future estimated liabilities is
determined considering the rates available at year-end on long-term, high
quality corporate bonds that could be used to settle the obligations of the
plan. A change in the discount rate of 1/4 of 1% would change the 2003 pension
liability by approximately $0.7 million and change the 2004 net periodic pension
expense by approximately $0.1 million. The long-term rate of return is estimated
by considering historical returns and expected returns on current and projected
asset allocations. A change in the assumption for the long-term rate of return
on plan assets of 1/4 of 1% would not materially impact net periodic pension
expense in 2004.
Non-U.S. Plans - The rate used to discount future estimated liabilities is
determined considering the rates available at year-end on long-term, high
quality corporate bonds that could be used to settle the obligations of the
plan. A change in the discount rate of 1/4 of 1% would change the 2003 pension
liability by approximately $5.0 million and change the 2004 net periodic pension
expense by approximately $0.4 million. The long-term rate of return is estimated
by considering historical returns and expected returns on current and projected
asset allocations. A change in the assumption for the long-term rate of return
on plan assets of 1/4 of 1% would not materially impact net periodic pension
expense in 2004.
The combination of negative actual investment returns and declining
interest rates in 2002 had a negative impact on Metallurg's pension plan
liabilities and the fair value of plan assets. Where the accumulated benefit
obligation exceeded the fair value of plan assets, Metallurg was required to
record an adjustment to the pension liability, called a "minimum pension
liability adjustment", with a charge to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss in
Shareholder's Equity. In 2002, Metallurg recorded a net charge of $18.9 million
to shareholder's equity. In 2003, strong asset returns in the U.S. more than
offset
25
higher accumulated benefit obligations resulting from a 75 basis point decline
in the discount rate. Accordingly, Metallurg credited shareholder's equity by
$5.9 million, net of deferred tax. The changes in the minimum pension liability
have no current impact on Metallurg's net income, liquidity or cash flows.
Based upon the current underfunded status of the plans and the actuarial
assumptions being used for 2004, Metallurg believes that it will be required to
make cash contributions in 2004 of approximately $0.8 million and $3.9 million
in the U.S. and the U.K., respectively.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted SFAS No. 146, "Accounting
for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities". This statement nullifies
Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain
Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity", under which
a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the date of an entity's
commitment to an exit plan. SFAS No. 146 requires that a liability for a cost
associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized at fair value only
once the liability is incurred. The adoption of SFAS No. 146 did not have a
material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In April 2003, SFAS No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" was issued. The standard amends and
clarifies financial reporting for derivative instruments and for hedging
activities accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and is effective for contracts
entered into or modified, and for hedges designated, after June 30, 2003.
Adoption of SFAS No. 149 did not have a material impact on the Company's
consolidated financial statements.
In November 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Interpretation No. 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for
Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others" ("FIN 45").
FIN 45 requires the initial recognition and initial measurement, on a
prospective basis only, of guarantees issued or modified after December 31,
2002. Additionally, certain disclosure requirements are effective for financial
statements ending after December 15, 2002. The adoption of FIN 45 did not have a
material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
FASB Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), "Consolidation of
Variable Interest Entities" ("FIN 46R"), replaces FIN 46, "Consolidation of
Variable Interest Entities", which had been issued in January 2003. FIN 46R
changes the criteria for including certain non-controlled affiliates, defined as
variable interest entities ("VIE"), in a company's consolidated financial
statements. FIN 46R addresses consolidation of VIEs which have one or more of
the following characteristics: the equity investment at risk is not sufficient
to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated
financial support provided by any parties, the equity investors lack some
essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest, and the equity
investors have voting rights that are not proportionate to their economic
interests. Application of FIN 46R is required in financial statements of
companies that have interests in structures that are commonly referred to as
special-purpose entities for periods ending after December 15, 2003. Application
by public entities for all other types of variable interest entities is required
in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004; however, early
adoption is allowed. The Company has elected to early adopt the provisions of
FIN 46R effective December 31, 2003. The adoption of this Statement did not have
a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of
operations, as none of its non-controlled affiliates require consolidation under
FIN 46.
In December 2003, the FASB revised SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits." The revised standard requires
new disclosures in addition to those required by the original standard about the
assets, obligations, cash flows and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit
pension plans and other defined benefit postretirement plans. As revised, SFAS
No. 132 is effective for financial statements with fiscal years ending after
December 15, 2003 and its disclosure provisions are reflected in the footnotes
to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. The interim-period
disclosures required by this standard are effective for interim periods
beginning after December 15, 2003.
Effects of Inflation
Inflation has not had a significant effect on Metallurg's operations.
However, there can be no assurance that inflation will not have a material
effect on Metallurg's operations in the future. Metallurg is subject to price
fluctuations in its raw materials and products. These fluctuations have affected
and will continue to affect Metallurg's results of operations. See "Results of
Operations."
26
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The following audited consolidated financial statements of Metallurg
Holdings, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries are presented herein pursuant
to the requirements of Item 8 on the pages indicated below:
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: Page
-----
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.............. 28
Statements of Consolidated Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001........ 29
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2003 and 2002......................................... 30
Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001........ 31
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the Years Ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001... 32-67
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) for the Years Ended December 31, 2003 and 2002...... 68
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accoutning Firm on Financial Statement
Schedule - PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP............................................................. 69
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves...................................... 70
27
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors of Metallurg Holdings, Inc.
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of operations and of cash flows present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Metallurg Holdings, Inc. and its
subsidiaries ("the Company") at December 31, 2003 and December 31, 2002, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 2003 in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements
are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We
conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the
Public Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that
we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures
in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, on September
30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, the Company sold production facilities and
certain sales offices to entities under the common control of the Company's
shareholder. These dispositions have been accounted for as a change in reporting
entity, which requires that the financial statements be restated to exclude the
sold entities from all periods.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the
Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the
financial statements, the Company does not currently have sufficient cash on
hand to make the interest payments due in 2004 on its senior discount notes,
which raises substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a
going concern. Management's plans in regard to this matter are also described in
Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might
result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
New York, New York
March 5, 2004
28
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS
(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
-------- -------- --------
Sales ......................................................... $282,802 $277,146 $336,076
Commission income ............................................. 547 635 628
-------- -------- --------
Total revenue .............................................. 283,349 277,781 336,704
Cost of sales ................................................. 261,370 254,715 292,870
-------- -------- --------
Gross profit ............................................... 21,979 23,066 43,834
-------- -------- --------
Selling, general and administrative expenses .................. 30,731 30,562 32,207
Environmental expense recoveries .............................. -- (3,000) (631)
Restructuring and asset impairment charges .................... 43,381 3,510 --
-------- -------- --------
Total operating expenses ................................... 74,112 31,072 31,576
-------- -------- --------
Operating (loss) income .................................... (52,133) (8,006) 12,258
Other:
Other income, net .......................................... 222 74 209
Interest expense, net ...................................... (18,159) (18,406) (16,654)
-------- -------- --------
Loss before income tax (benefit)
provision, minority interest and discontinued
operations .............................................. (70,070) (26,338) (4,187)
Income tax (benefit) provision ................................ (263) 840 2,551
-------- -------- --------
Loss before minority interest and discontinued
operations............................................... (69,807) (27,178) (6,738)
Minority interest ............................................. (17) (84) (14)
-------- -------- --------
Loss from continuing operations ............................ (69,824) (27,262) (6,752)
Discontinued operations (net of tax provision of $697, $997
and $757 in 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively) ............. 1,417 2,321 971
-------- -------- --------
Loss before extraordinary item ............................. (68,407) (24,941) (5,781)
Extraordinary item ............................................ -- 2,227 --
-------- -------- --------
Net loss ................................................... (68,407) (22,714) (5,781)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment .................... 6,400 6,486 (3,371)
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net .................. 5,927 (18,876) (13,802)
Deferred loss on derivatives, net .......................... (292) (183) (120)
-------- -------- --------
Comprehensive loss ......................................... $(56,372) $(35,287) $(23,074)
======== ======== ========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
29
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share data)
December 31,
--------------------
2003 2002
--------- --------
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ...................................... $ 18,557 $ 24,256
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
accounts ($2,112 in 2003 and $1,551 in 2002) ................ 37,669 38,632
Accounts receivable - related parties .......................... 102 2,127
Inventories .................................................... 44,457 50,600
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ...................... 8,107 7,603
Discontinued operations - current assets ....................... 14,738 12,642
--------- --------
Total current assets ........................................ 123,630 135,860
Investments in affiliates ......................................... 1,870 1,624
Goodwill .......................................................... 1,400 34,949
Property, plant and equipment, net ................................ 54,324 62,152
Notes receivable - related parties ................................ 6,608 6,000
Other assets ...................................................... 10,455 12,832
Discontinued operations - noncurrent assets ....................... 1,948 1,771
--------- --------
Total ....................................................... $ 200,235 $255,188
========= ========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDER'S DEFICIT
Current Liabilities:
Short-term debt ................................................ $ 5,791 $ 4,447
Current portion of long-term debt .............................. 2,524 155
Accounts payable ............................................... 23,785 32,140
Accounts payable - related parties ............................. 2,023 276
Accrued expenses ............................................... 12,946 11,346
Current portion of environmental liabilities ................... 2,993 4,191
Taxes payable .................................................. 347 973
Discontinued operations - current liabilities .................. 9,843 9,072
--------- --------
Total current liabilities ................................... 60,252 62,600
--------- --------
Long-term Liabilities:
Long-term debt ................................................. 160,357 158,174
Accrued pension liabilities .................................... 29,543 36,641
Environmental liabilities, net ................................. 22,678 23,938
Other liabilities .............................................. 1,000 947
Discontinued operations - noncurrent liabilities ............... 218 123
--------- --------
Total long-term liabilities ................................. 213,796 219,823
--------- --------
Total liabilities ........................................... 274,048 282,423
--------- --------
Commitments and Contingencies......................................
Minority Interest ................................................. 256 462
Shareholder's Deficit:
Common stock - par value $.01 per share, authorized 30,000
shares, no shares issued and outstanding .................... -- --
Series A Voting Convertible Preferred Stock - par value $.01 per
share, authorized 10,000 shares, issued and outstanding
5,202.335 shares ............................................ -- --
Series B Non-Voting Convertible Preferred Stock - par value $.01
per share, authorized 10,000 shares, issued and outstanding
4,524 shares ................................................ -- --
Additional paid-in capital ..................................... 59,911 49,911
Accumulated other comprehensive loss ........................... (25,244) (37,279)
Retained deficit ............................................... (108,736) (40,329)
--------- --------
Total shareholder's deficit ................................. (74,069) (27,697)
--------- --------
Total ....................................................... $ 200,235 $255,188
========= ========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
30
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
-------- -------- --------
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net loss ........................................................ $(68,407) $(22,714) $ (5,781)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
(used in) provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization ................................ 8,321 7,654 9,399
Deferred income taxes ........................................ (92) 316 607
Interest accretion on Senior Discount Notes .................. 2,611 4,907 4,316
Restructuring and asset impairment charges ................... 43,381 3,510 --
Extraordinary item ........................................... -- (2,227) --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in accounts receivable .............................. 4,318 3,904 4,140
Decrease in inventories ...................................... 7,755 12,545 750
(Increase) decrease in other current assets .................. (107) 3,953 75
Decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses ............ (7,528) (584) (7,439)
Restructuring payments ....................................... (3,953) (1,786) --
Environmental payments ....................................... (2,438) (2,734) (1,819)
Other assets and liabilities, net ............................ 981 380 (2,691)
Discontinued operations - operating activities .................. (1,652) 221 (327)
-------- -------- --------
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities ....... (16,810) 7,345 1,230
-------- -------- --------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment ...................... (2,889) (10,619) (15,003)
Repayment from (loan to) former subsidiary ...................... 1,000 (3,000) --
Other, net ...................................................... 179 89 159
Discontinued operations - investing activities .................. (222) (464) (355)
-------- -------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities ..................... (1,932) (13,994) (15,199)
-------- -------- --------
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt .................................... 151 176 8,485
Repayment of long-term debt ..................................... (265) (204) --
Net borrowing (repayment) of short-term debt .................... 1,295 1,918 (5,085)
Capital contributions ........................................... 10,000 7,117 2,705
Discontinued operations - financing activities .................. 1,185 (1,510) 2,138
-------- -------- --------
Net cash provided by financing activities ................. 12,366 7,497 8,243
-------- -------- --------
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents ... 677 675 (807)
-------- -------- --------
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents ............ (5,699) 1,523 (6,533)
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period ................. 24,256 22,733 29,266
-------- -------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period ....................... $ 18,557 $ 24,256 $ 22,733
======== ======== ========
Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
Cash paid for income taxes ...................................... $ 1,806 $ 434 $ 1,517
======== ======== ========
Cash paid for interest .......................................... $ 13,590 $ 13,607 $ 13,127
======== ======== ========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
31
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Going Concern
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared
assuming that Metallurg Holdings, Inc. ("Metallurg Holdings") and its
consolidated subsidiaries, (collectively, the "Company") will continue as a
going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction
of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company's financial
performance over the past year, however, has been adversely impacted by
increased competition, lower overall demand from customers and lackluster
economic conditions worldwide, which put significant downward pressure on the
selling price of the Company's products. As a result of these circumstances, the
Company has entered into amendments to its revolving credit facility in the U.S.
and its term loan facilities in the U.K. Certain of these amendments provide
additional availability, more flexible financial covenant requirements and
extended terms. See "Note 12. Borrowings".
Metallurg Holdings currently does not expect to have sufficient cash on
hand to make the interest payments due on $121 million of 12 3/4% Senior
Discount Notes due 2008 (the "Senior Discount Notes"). Metallurg Holdings'
balance sheet is comprised primarily of its equity, the Senior Discount Notes
and its investment in Metallurg, Inc. As all of Metallurg, Inc.'s outstanding
common stock has been pledged as collateral for Metallurg Holdings' obligations
under the Senior Discount Notes, if Metallurg Holdings were unable to make
interest payments when due, it could lead to a foreclosure on its assets,
principally the equity of Metallurg, Inc. Such foreclosure would create a
default in accordance with the indenture terms of Metallurg, Inc.'s 11% Senior
Notes due 2007 (the "Senior Notes") and result in an acceleration of $100
million of Senior Note indebtedness.
The Company is highly leveraged. Interest payments of $2.6 million are due
in both January and July 2004 on the Senior Discount Notes and payments of $5.5
million are due in both June and December 2004 on the Senior Notes. In addition,
Metallurg, Inc.'s Revolving Credit Facility, as described in Note 12, with an
outstanding amount of $21.1 million at December 31, 2003, consisting of
outstanding letters of credit, is scheduled to expire on October 29, 2004.
Metallurg, Inc. is currently in compliance with the terms of the Revolving
Credit Facility, as amended. In the event the Company does not succeed in its
restructuring efforts, described below, it is likely that liquidity will be
inadequate to enable the Company to continue to make the interest payments
required with respect to the Senior Discount Notes and the Senior Notes and
repay the Revolving Credit Facility.
In March 2004, Metallurg, Inc. retained Compass Advisers, LLP, as financial
advisors, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, LLP, as legal counsel,
to assist the Company in analyzing and evaluating possible transactions for
the principal purpose of restructuring the Company's balance sheet. The Company
is currently engaged in discussions with potential lenders about the
refinancing of its senior indebtedness. The Company neither expresses any
opinion nor gives any assurances whatsoever regarding whether, when, or on what
terms it will be able to refinance its outstanding senior indebtedness or
complete any broader restructuring of its balance sheet. Management believes
that the refinancing and restructuring of the Company's outstanding senior
indebtedness and balance sheet is essential to the long-term viability of the
Company. If the Company is not able to reach agreements that favorably resolve
these issues, the Company likely will not have adequate liquidity to enable it
to continue to make the interest payments required with respect to its Senior
Discount Notes, its Senior Notes, or to repay its revolving credit facility with
Fleet National Bank (which matures on October 29, 2004). In such event, the
Company may have to resort to certain other measures to resolve its liquidity
issues, including ultimately seeking the protection afforded under the
United States Bankruptcy Code. Furthermore, any negotiated refinancing of the
Company's senior indebtedness or negotiated restructuring of the Company's
balance sheet may require that the Company seek the protection afforded under
the reorganization provisions of the United States Bankruptcy Code.
The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments, which
could be significant, relating to the recoverability and classification of
recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that
might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
32
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The Company is wholly owned by a group of investors led by and including
Safeguard International Fund, L.P. ("Safeguard International"), an international
private equity fund that invests primarily in equity securities of companies in
process industries. On July 13, 1998, Metallurg Acquisition Corp., a wholly
owned subsidiary of Metallurg Holdings, merged with and into Metallurg, Inc.,
with Metallurg, Inc. being the surviving company and Metallurg Holdings becoming
the sole parent of Metallurg, Inc.
Metallurg, Inc. and its majority-owned subsidiaries (collectively,
"Metallurg") manufactures and sells high-quality specialty metals, alloys and
metallic chemicals which are essential to the production of high-performance
aluminum and titanium alloys, superalloys, steel and certain non-metallic
materials for various applications in the aerospace, power supply, automotive,
petrochemical processing and telecommunications industries. Metallurg sells over
50 different product groups to over 1,500 customers worldwide (primarily in
North America and Europe).
Basis of Presentation and Consolidation - The consolidated financial
statements include the accounts of Metallurg Holdings, Metallurg, Inc. and its
majority-owned subsidiaries. Investments in companies where the Company has
greater than 50% ownership interests are fully consolidated, with the equity
owned by the respective partners shown as minority interest on the balance sheet
and their portion of net income or loss shown separately in the statement of
operations. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been
eliminated in consolidation.
Effective September 30, 2003, Metallurg, Inc. and its wholly owned
subsidiary, Metallurg Holdings Corporation, sold all of its ownership interests
in its Weisweiler, Germany manufacturing facility and its Turkish chrome ore
mines. See "Note 3. Change in Reporting Entity". As the above transactions were
between members of a common controlled group, as defined for accounting
purposes, they are accounted for on an historical basis with no gain or loss
being recorded, and the results presented herein have been restated to exclude
the financial results of the companies sold for all periods presented and to
reflect the new reporting entity. The financial statements for all prior periods
have also been restated to exclude certain subsidiaries sold at December 31,
2002.
On December 23, 2003, the Company committed to a plan to sell its South
African sales office to a group of investors, including local management.
Accordingly, the operating results for this entity have been reported as
discontinued operations for all periods presented. See "Note 4. Discontinued
Operations".
Accounting Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of
assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at
the date of the financial statements. They may also affect the reported amount
of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Amounts affected include,
but are not limited to, allowances for doubtful accounts, inventories,
allowances for recoverable taxes, environmental remediation costs, restructuring
and asset impairment charges, deferred income tax asset valuation allowances,
pension plan obligations and contingent liabilities. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
Foreign Currency Translation - For foreign operations with functional
currencies other than the U.S. dollar, asset and liability accounts are
translated at current exchange rates; income and expenses are translated using
weighted-average exchange rates. Resulting translation adjustments are reported
in a separate component of shareholder's equity. Translation adjustments for
operations in highly inflationary economies and exchange gains and losses on
transactions are included in earnings, and amounted to gains (losses) of
$22,000, $(1,106,000), and $714,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002
and 2001, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company presents all highly liquid
instruments, maturing within 30 days or less when purchased, as cash
equivalents.
Inventories - Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, cost
being determined using principally the average cost and specific identification
methods. The Company estimates the net realizable value of its inventories at
least quarterly and adjusts the carrying amount of these inventories to its
market value, less a normal profit margin, as necessary.
33
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Continued)
Investments in Affiliates - Investments in affiliates in which the Company
has a 20% to 50% ownership interest and exercises significant management
influence are accounted for in accordance with the equity method. Where
management does not exercise significant influence and where the Company has
less than a 20% interest, the investment is carried at cost.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - The Company accounts for goodwill
and other intangible assets in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards ("SFAS") No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets". Under SFAS
No. 142, goodwill is no longer amortized but is tested for impairment using a
fair value approach at the "reporting unit" level. A reporting unit is the
operating segment, or a business one level below that operating segment (the
"component" level) if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly
reviewed by management at the component level. An impairment loss is recognized
for any amount by which the carrying amount of a reporting unit's goodwill
exceeds its fair value. The Company uses discounted cash flows to establish fair
values and uses comparative market multiples, where available and as
appropriate, to corroborate discounted cash flow results. When a reporting unit,
or a business within a reporting unit, is disposed of, goodwill is allocated to
the gain or loss on disposition using the relative fair value method. SFAS No.
142 requires goodwill to be tested for impairment annually at the same time
every year, and also when an event occurs or circumstances change such that it
is reasonably possible that an impairment may exist. The Company selected
December 31 as its annual testing date. As a result of continuing operating
losses at all of the production facilities, Metallurg Holdings has determined
that it will be unable to recover the carrying value of its goodwill at December
31, 2003 and recorded an impairment of the goodwill of $32,486,000. See "Note 9.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets".
The Company's finite-lived acquired intangible assets, comprised of
technical know-how, are amortized on a straight-line basis over 3 or 10 years.
Amortizable intangible assets are tested for impairment based on undiscounted
cash flows and, if impaired, written down to fair value based on discounted cash
flows. There was no impairment charge relating to these assets in 2003.
Property and Depreciation - Depreciation is computed using principally the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Major
renewals and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are
expensed when incurred. Upon sale or retirement, the costs and related
accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the respective accounts and any
resulting gain or loss is included in income.
Recoverability of Long-Lived Assets - The Company annually, or sooner if
circumstances warrant, evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets to be
held and used, including goodwill and other intangible assets, when events and
circumstances warrant such a review. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is
considered impaired when the anticipated undiscounted cash flows from such asset
are separately identifiable and is less than its carrying value. In that event,
a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the
fair market value of the long-lived asset. Fair market value is determined
primarily using the anticipated cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate
with the risk involved. Losses on long-lived assets to be disposed of are
determined in a similar manner, except that fair market values are reduced for
the cost to dispose.
Discontinued Operations - At the time that management formally commits
to a plan to divest of a business, such business is classified as discontinued
operations. The balance sheet amounts and income statements results are
reclassified from their historical presentation to assets and liabilities
of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and to discontinued
operations in the Statement of Consolidated Operations for all periods
presented.
Revenue Recognition - Revenue is recognized when the earnings process is
complete and the risks and rewards of ownership have transferred to the
customer. In certain instances, the Company arranges sales for which the
supplier invoices the customer directly. In such cases, the Company receives
commission income, in its role as agent, which is recognized when the supplier
passes title to the customer. The Company assumes no significant credit or other
risk with such transactions.
34
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Continued)
Environmental Remediation Costs and Recoveries - Losses associated with
environmental remediation obligations are accrued when such losses are deemed
probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals generally are recognized no
later than the completion of the remedial feasibility study and are adjusted as
further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future
expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted to
their present value. Environmental expense recoveries are generally recognized
in income upon final settlement with the Company's insurance carriers.
Income Taxes - The Company uses the asset and liability method whereby
deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the
financial reporting basis and the tax basis of the Company's assets and
liabilities. The Company does not provide for U.S. federal income taxes on the
accumulated earnings considered permanently reinvested in certain of its foreign
subsidiaries, which approximated $16,700,000 at December 31, 2003. These
earnings have been invested in facilities and other assets of the Company and
have been subject to substantial foreign income taxes, which may or could offset
a major portion of any tax liability resulting from their remittance and
inclusion in U.S. taxable income. Accordingly, the Company does not provide for
U.S. income taxes on foreign currency translation adjustments related to these
foreign subsidiaries.
Retirement Plans - Metallurg maintains defined benefit plans for its
employees in the U.S., the U.K. and Norway. Several statistical and other
factors, including assumptions about the discount rate, expected return on plan
assets, rate of future compensation increases, employee turnover and mortality
rates, are used in calculating the expense and liability related to the plans.
The rate to discount future estimated liabilities is determined considering the
rates available at year-end on long-term, high quality corporate bonds that
could be used to settle the obligations of the plans. The long-term rate of
return is estimated considering historical returns and expected returns on
current and projected asset allocations. A liability is recognized on the
balance sheet for each pension plan where the fair value of the assets of that
pension plan is less than the accumulated benefit obligation. This liability is
called a "minimum pension liability" and is recorded by a charge to Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Loss in Shareholder's Deficit.
Stock-Based Compensation - Metallurg has a stock-based compensation plan,
which is described in "Note 15. Shareholder's (Deficit) Equity". Metallurg
accounts for this plan using the intrinsic value method in accordance with
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees" and related interpretations. Accordingly, no compensation cost is
reflected in net income, as all options granted under this plan had an exercise
price at least equal to the estimated market value of the underlying common
stock on the date of grant. The following table illustrates the effect on net
income if Metallurg had applied the fair value measurement and recognition
methods prescribed by SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" to
record expense for stock option compensation (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------
2003 2002 2001
-------- -------- -------
Net loss, as reported.............................. $(68,407) $(22,714) $(5,781)
Less: compensation expense for option awards
determined by the fair value based method,
net of related tax effects ..................... 39 263 454
-------- -------- -------
Pro forma net loss............................. $(68,446) $(22,977) $(6,235)
======== ======== =======
35
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Continued)
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Metallurg uses derivative
instruments, primarily forward contracts, to manage certain foreign currency,
interest rate and commodity price exposures. Derivative instruments are viewed
as risk management tools by Metallurg and are not used for trading or
speculative purposes. Derivative instruments are recorded on the balance sheet
at fair value. Changes in derivatives used to hedge foreign-currency-denominated
balance sheet items are reported directly in earnings along with offsetting
gains and losses on the items being hedged. Derivatives used to hedge forecasted
cash flows associated with foreign currency commitments or forecasted commodity
purchases are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Gains and losses on derivatives
designated as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and
reclassified to earnings in a manner that matches the timing of the earnings
impact of the hedged transactions. The ineffective portion of all hedges, if
any, and gains and losses on foreign currency transactions not designated as
hedges are recognized currently in income.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Effective January 1, 2003, the Company
adopted SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal
Activities". This statement nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3,
"Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs
to Exit an Activity", under which a liability for an exit cost was recognized at
the date of an entity's commitment to an exit plan. SFAS No. 146 requires that a
liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized
at fair value only once the liability is incurred. The adoption of SFAS No. 146
did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial
statements.
In April 2003, SFAS No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" was issued. The standard amends and
clarifies financial reporting for derivative instruments and for hedging
activities accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and is effective for contracts
entered into or modified, and for hedges designated, after June 30, 2003.
Adoption of SFAS No. 149 did not have a material impact on the Company's
consolidated financial statements.
In November 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Interpretation No. 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for
Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others" ("FIN 45").
FIN 45 requires the initial recognition and initial measurement, on a
prospective basis only, of guarantees issued or modified after December 31,
2002. Additionally, certain disclosure requirements are effective for financial
statements ending after December 15, 2002. The adoption of FIN 45 did not have a
material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
FASB Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), "Consolidation of
Variable Interest Entities" ("FIN 46R"), replaces FIN 46, "Consolidation of
Variable Interest Entities", which had been issued in January 2003. FIN 46R
changes the criteria for including certain non-controlled affiliates, defined as
variable interest entities ("VIE"), in a company's consolidated financial
statements. FIN 46R addresses consolidation of VIEs which have one or more of
the following characteristics: the equity investment at risk is not sufficient
to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated
financial support provided by any parties, the equity investors lack some
essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest, and the equity
investors have voting rights that are not proportionate to their economic
interests. Application of FIN 46R is required in financial statements of
companies that have interests in structures that are commonly referred to as
special-purpose entities for periods ending after December 15, 2003. Application
by public entities for all other types of variable interest entities is required
in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004; however, early
adoption is allowed. The Company has elected to early adopt the provisions of
FIN 46R effective December 31, 2003. The adoption of this Statement did not have
a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of
operations, as none of its non-controlled affiliates require consolidation under
FIN 46.
In December 2003, the FASB revised SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits." The revised standard requires
new disclosures in addition to those required by the original standard about the
assets, obligations, cash flows and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit
pension plans and other defined benefit postretirement plans. As revised, SFAS
No. 132 is effective for financial statements with fiscal years ending after
December 15, 2003 and its disclosure provisions are reflected in these
footnotes. The interim-period disclosures required by this standard are
effective for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2003.
36
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Continued)
Earnings Per Share - Earnings per share is not presented since Metallurg
Holdings is wholly owned by a group of private investors led by and including
Safeguard International.
3. Change in Reporting Entity
Effective September 30, 2003, the Company completed the sale of certain
subsidiaries as described below. As these transactions were between members of a
common controlled group, as defined for accounting purposes, the Company has
restated its financial statements for all periods presented to reflect a new
reporting entity that excludes these subsidiaries. As a result, there is no gain
or loss recorded and any proceeds received have been recorded as capital
contributions from members of the common controlled group.
Metallurg, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Metallurg Holdings
Corporation, sold all of its interests in (a) Elektrowerk Weisweiler GmbH
("EWW"), a German corporation engaged in the manufacture of low carbon
ferrochrome; and (b) Turk Maadin Sirketi A.S. ("TMS"), a Turkish corporation
engaged in the mining of chrome ore.
The shares and assets of EWW and TMS were sold to, and certain liabilities
assumed by, LAGO Vierundzwanzigste GmbH ("LAGO"), a German company, for an
aggregate purchase price of $10,000,000 in cash. The net book value of the
entities sold was $12,612,000 at September 30, 2003. Revenue and net income
(loss) for the three quarters ended September 30, 2003 were $27,887,000 and
$106,000, respectively, for EWW and $2,942,000 and $(324,000), respectively, for
TMS.
LAGO is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sudamin Recycling GmbH & Co. KG
("Sudamin"), a German company. At September 30, 2003, Sudamin was an affiliate
of Safeguard International Fund, L.P., the majority owner of Metallurg Holdings.
Dr. Heinz C. Schimmelbusch and Mr. Arthur Spector, both of whom are directors
and officers of Metallurg Holdings were also directors of Sudamin through the
transaction date of September 30, 2003.
On December 31, 2002, the Company completed a similar sale of subsidiaries
to members of a common controlled group, as defined for accounting purposes, and
restated its financial statements for all previous periods to reflect a new
reporting entity that excludes these subsidiaries. See "Note 2 - Change in
Reporting Entity" to Metallurg Holdings, Inc.'s 10-K for the year ended December
31, 2002.
4. Discontinued Operations
On December 23, 2003, the Company committed to a plan to sell its South
African sales office to a group of investors, including local management.
Accordingly, the operating results for this entity have been reported as
discontinued operations for all periods presented. The transaction closed on
March 8, 2004. The total purchase price was $9,100,000, consisting of $7,730,000
in cash and a note receivable for $1,370,000, to be repaid in three equal
installments plus interest at LIBOR plus 1% over two years. The Company will
record income from discontinued operations of $338,000 and a loss on the sale of
discontinued operations of approximately $1,000,000 in the first quarter of
2004.
37
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
4. Discontinued Operations - (Continued)
The following table summarizes certain financial information related to
these discontinued operations (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
---------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------- ------- -------
Results of operations:
Total revenue..................................... $56,262 $43,119 $36,273
Income before income tax provision................ 1,903 3,337 1,742
December 31,
-----------------
2003 2002
------- -------
Significant assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net.................................... $ 7,122 $ 6,441
Inventories................................................. 7,231 5,956
Property, plant and equipment, net.......................... 1,352 1,065
Other assets................................................ 981 951
------- -------
Total assets............................................. 16,686 14,413
------- -------
Short-term debt............................................. 2,686 1,041
Accounts Payable............................................ 5,583 6,517
Accrued expenses............................................ 1,440 839
Other liabilities........................................... 352 798
------- -------
Total liabilities........................................ 10,061 9,195
------- -------
Net assets............................................... $ 6,625 $ 5,218
======= =======
5. Extraordinary Items
Effective December 31, 2002, the Company sold its ownership interests in
GfE and certain trading companies. See "Note 3. Change in Reporting Entity". In
conjunction with the sale, the Company received $4,600,000 in face amount of
Metallurg Holdings' Senior Discount Notes from Sudamin, the purchaser. The
acquired Senior Discount Notes had a book value on that date of $4,302,000. On a
consolidated basis the Company wrote off $74,000 of related deferred issuance
costs and recognized an extraordinary gain on the extinguishment of debt of
$2,227,000, net of nil tax.
38
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
6. Segments and Related Information
Metallurg operates in one significant industry segment, the manufacture and
sale of performance-enhancing additives mainly for the metallurgical industry.
Metallurg is organized around its major production facilities in the U.K., the
U.S. and Brazil. In addition to its own products, Metallurg distributes
complementary products manufactured by third parties. The results of Metallurg
Holdings consist primarily of interest expense related to the Senior Discount
Notes, general overhead expenses, goodwill impairment (see Note 9) and income
tax expense. The results on Metallurg Holdings are included in "Other" below.
Reportable Segments
London & Scandinavian Metallurgical Co Limited and its subsidiaries
(collectively, "LSM") - This unit is comprised mainly of three production
facilities in the U.K. and another in Norway which manufacture and sell aluminum
alloy grain refiners and alloying tablets for the aluminum industry, chromium
metal and specialty ferroalloys for the steel and superalloy industries and
aluminum powder for various metal powder-consuming industries. As a result of
continuing weakness in operating performance, LSM commenced a restructuring
program in the second half of 2003. LSM discontinued its metal catalyst business
in the fourth quarter of 2003 and announced the closure of its Norwegian
production facility in 2004. See Note 7. "Restructuring and Asset Impairment
Charges". As the decision to close its Norwegian production facility did not
take place until 2004, no costs have been accrued for such closure costs as of
December 31, 2003.
Shieldalloy Metallurgical Corporation ("SMC") - This unit is comprised of
two production facilities in the U.S. The Ohio plant manufactures and sells
ferrovanadium and vanadium-based chemicals used mostly in the steel and
petrochemical industries. The New Jersey plant manufactures and sells alloying
tablets for the aluminum industry and metal powders for the welding industry.
Companhia Industrial Fluminense ("CIF") - This unit is comprised mainly of
two production facilities in Brazil. The Sao Joao del Rei plant manufactures and
sells aluminum alloy grain refiners and alloying tablets for the aluminum
industry and metal oxides used in the telecommunications, superalloy and
specialty metal industries. The Nazareno mine extracts and concentrates ores
containing tantalum and niobium that are processed, along with other raw
materials, into metal oxides at the Sao Joao del Rei plant.
In addition to their manufacturing operations, LSM and SMC import and
distribute complementary products manufactured by affiliates and third parties.
Summarized financial information concerning Metallurg's reportable segments
is shown in the following table (in thousands). Each segment records direct
expenses related to its employees and operations. The "Other" column includes
corporate-related items and results of subsidiaries not meeting the quantitative
thresholds as prescribed by applicable accounting rules for determining
reportable segments. Metallurg does not allocate general corporate overhead
expenses to operating segments. The accounting policies of the segments are the
same as those described in "Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies".
Transactions among segments are established based on negotiation among the
parties.
39
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
6. Segments and Related Information - (Continued)
Intersegment Consolidated
LSM SMC CIF Other Eliminations Totals
-------- ------- ------- -------- ------------ ------------
Year Ended December 31, 2003
Revenue from external customers.... $142,653 $95,475 $18,092 $ 27,129 $283,349
Intergroup revenue................. 25,563 3,267 15,104 2,751 $ (46,685) --
Restructuring and asset impairment
charges......................... 10,358 -- -- 33,023 -- 43,381
Interest income.................... 215 967 41 3,790 (4,039) 974
Interest expense................... 1,688 1,429 888 19,167 (4,039) 19,133
Depreciation and amortization...... 4,566 1,748 1,298 709 -- 8,321
Income tax (benefit) provision..... (235) (2,358) 22 2,308 -- (263)
Net loss........................... (11,906) (3,147) (676) (89,011) 36,333 (68,407)
Assets............................. 88,933 82,628 21,339 213,380 (206,045) 200,235
Capital expenditures............... 1,171 731 942 45 -- 2,889
Year Ended December 31, 2002
Revenue from external customers.... $133,962 $86,698 $18,342 $ 38,779 $277,781
Intergroup revenue................. 27,016 5,355 14,527 2,371 $ (49,269) --
Environmental expense recoveries... -- (3,000) -- -- -- (3,000)
Restructuring and asset impairment
charges......................... 1,068 453 -- 1,989 -- 3,510
Interest income.................... 200 981 37 3,931 (4,542) 607
Interest expense................... 1,709 1,349 782 19,715 (4,542) 19,013
Depreciation and amortization...... 4,368 1,598 1,053 635 -- 7,654
Income tax provision (benefit) .... 868 (2,026) 173 1,825 -- 840
Net (loss) income.................. (2,452) (3,951) 452 (20,728) 3,965 (22,714)
Assets............................. 102,588 79,058 22,388 260,818 (209,664) 255,188
Capital expenditures............... 2,168 5,366 3,057 28 -- 10,619
40
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
6. Segments and Related Information - (Continued)
Intersegment Consolidated
LSM SMC CIF Other Eliminations Totals
-------- ------- ------- -------- ------------ ------------
Year Ended December 31, 2001
Revenue from external customers.... $146,780 $99,038 $16,992 $ 73,894 $336,704
Intergroup revenue................. 26,381 5,030 22,391 4,910 $ (58,712) --
Environmental expense recoveries... -- (631) -- -- -- (631)
Interest income.................... 82 1,022 58 4,581 (4,236) 1,507
Interest expense................... 1,733 1,168 1,040 18,456 (4,236) 18,161
Depreciation and amortization...... 4,067 1,516 1,153 2,663 -- 9,399
Income tax provision (benefit)..... 630 (2,925) 1,678 3,168 -- 2,551
Net income (loss).................. 1,795 (2,152) 3,487 13,450 (22,361) (5,781)
Assets............................. 84,105 81,453 20,421 295,787 (244,001) 237,765
Capital expenditures............... 4,661 7,579 2,685 78 -- 15,003
The Company sells its products in over 50 countries. The following table
presents revenue by country based on the location of the user of the product (in
thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
-------- -------- --------
U.S............................................ $100,517 $ 97,083 $135,017
U.K............................................ 28,532 25,110 34,696
Germany........................................ 20,128 24,571 34,935
Japan ......................................... 16,342 12,631 11,500
Canada......................................... 15,863 18,222 15,934
France......................................... 12,127 11,922 14,040
Brazil......................................... 11,941 12,968 11,418
Other.......................................... 77,352 74,639 78,536
Commission income.............................. 547 635 628
-------- -------- --------
Total revenue............................... $283,349 $277,781 $336,704
======== ======== ========
The following table presents property, plant and equipment by country based
on the location of the assets (in thousands):
December 31,
-----------------
2003 2002
------- -------
U.K......................................................... $22,881 $25,600
U.S......................................................... 21,835 23,073
Brazil...................................................... 8,614 9,015
Other (a)................................................... 994 4,464
------- -------
Total.................................................... $54,324 $62,152
======= =======
(a) Reflects the 'L'1,768,000 ($3,176,000) write-down in December 2003 of
LSM's production facilities in Norway. See "Note 7. Restructuring and Asset
Impairment Charges".
41
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges
As a result of continuing weakness in operating performance, particularly
in its metal catalyst and aluminum businesses, LSM announced on September 1,
2003 its intention to implement a restructuring plan designed to streamline
production, improve productivity and reduce costs. Also in 2003, in order to
reduce operating expenses, the Company consolidated sales and administrative
functions with those in its other production facilities. Details of the
restructuring and asset impairment charges are as follows (in thousands):
Provision Utilization Through 2003 Balance at
---------------- ------------------------ December 31,
2003 2002 Cash Non-cash 2003
------- ------ ------- -------- ------------
Metallurg Holdings:
Impairment of goodwill.................... $32,486 $(32,486)
-------
LSM:
Severance and other employee costs ....... 3,652 $1,068 $(3,570) (96) $1,054
Write-down of plant and equipment ........ 6,706 -- -- (6,706) --
------- ------ ------- -------- ------
10,358 1,068 (3,570) (6,802) 1,054
------- ------ ------- -------- ------
SMC:
Severance and other employee costs ....... -- 350 (350) -- --
Write-down of plant and equipment ........ -- 103 -- (103) --
------- ------ ------- -------- ------
-- 453 (350) (103) --
------- ------ ------- -------- ------
Other:
Severance and other employee costs ....... 537 1,989 (1,819) -- 707
------- ------ ------- -------- ------
Total ................................. $43,381 $3,510 $(5,739) $(39,391) $1,761
======= ====== ======= ======== ======
2003 -
In December 2003, Metallurg Holdings recorded impairment to goodwill in the
amount of $32,486,000. See "Note 9. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets".
In 2003, LSM recorded a restructuring charge of 'L'5,977,000 ($10,358,000),
consisting of (i) 'L'2,122,000 ($3,652,000) of severance costs for 62 employees,
(ii) asset impairment charges of 'L'1,341,000 ($2,235,000) relating to its
metal catalyst business, and (iii) asset impairment charges of 'L'2,514,000
($4,471,000) relating to its production facilities in Norway. Of this amount,
'L'1,530,000 ($2,502,000) was paid as of December 31, 2003.
In a continuing effort to improve Metallurg's competitive position and to
reduce costs, a plan was implemented in the third quarter of 2003 to consolidate
sales and administrative functions performed by Metallurg's Canadian operations
into the New Jersey operations of SMC. As a result of this plan, Metallurg's
Canadian subsidiary recognized a restructuring charge of $417,000 for severance
costs of seven employees. Of this amount, $88,000 was paid as of December 31,
2003. Restructuring activities will be completed in the first quarter of 2004.
Also in 2003, Metallurg transferred certain sales and administrative
functions for tantalum and niobium products from its headquarters location to
its production facilities in Brazil. As a result, severance costs of $120,000
for two employees were recorded at December 31, 2003.
42
METALLURG HOLDINGS, INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
7. Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges - (Continued)
2002 -
During 2002, Metallurg carried out a restructuring program intended to
reduce the cost structure at LSM, SMC and corporate headquarters. LSM recorded
a restructuring charge of 'L'710,000 ($1,068,000) for severance costs of 29
employees who were terminated and paid during the year. SMC recorded a
restructuring charge of $453,000, of which $350,000 was for severance costs of
26 employees terminated during the year. The entire amount was paid out as of
December 31, 2003. SMC also recorded a charge of $103,000 for the write-down of
property and equipment no longer used in operations. Metallurg, Inc. recorded a
restructuring charge of $1,989,000 for severance costs of nine employees
terminated during the year at its headquarters location. Under the terms of
certain executive employment and severance agreements, the severance was to be
paid over a period of up to 18 months. Of this amount, $1,731,000 was paid as of
December 31, 2003.
8. Inventories
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
-----------------
2003 2002
------- -------
Raw materials............................................... $ 8,855 $ 9,994
Work in process............................................. 467 901
Finished goods.............................................. 33,762 38,201
Other....................................................... 1,373 1,504
------- -------
Total.................................................... $44,457 $50,600
======= =======
9. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Effective January 1, 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and
Other Intangible Assets", which addresses the accounting and reporting of
acquired goodwill and other intangible assets. SFAS No. 142 eliminates the
amortization of goodwill and requires an evaluation of potential goodwill
impairment on adoption and annually thereafter, as well as on occasions when
circumstances indicate a possible impairment. The Company completed an
evaluation as of December 31, 2003 and concluded that as a result of continuing
operating losses at all of the production facilities, it will be unable to
recover the carrying value of its goodwill and recorded an impairment of the
goodwill of $32,486,000. This impairment was included in restructuring and asset
impairment charges in the Statement of Consolidated Operations and has not been
allocated to the segments for financial reporting purposes. They are associated
with the segments as follows: