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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997
OR
[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from _____________ to _________________
Commission File Number 0-11258
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WORLDCOM, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Georgia 58-1521612
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
515 East Amite Street, Jackson, Mississippi 39201-2702
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (601) 360-8600
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
COMMON STOCK, $.01 PAR VALUE
SERIES A 8% CUMULATIVE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK, $.01 PAR VALUE
SERIES B CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK, $.01 PAR VALUE
DEPOSITARY SHARES (EACH REPRESENTING 1/100TH INTEREST IN A SHARE OF
SERIES A 8% CUMULATIVE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK)
PREFERRED STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS
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 [X] No [ ]
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 the 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. [ ]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the
registrant as of March 6, 1998 was:
Common Stock, $.01 par value:
$38,010,636,014
Series A 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (represented by Depositary
Shares): $1,240,833,000 Series B
Convertible Preferred Stock: $45,975,835
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and
reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan
confirmed by a court.
Yes [X] No [ ]
There were 1,026,645,863 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding as
of March 6, 1998.
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GLOSSARY
AT&T DIVESTITURE DECREE -- Entered on August 24, 1982, by the United States
District Court for the District of Columbia. The AT&T Divestiture Decree,
among other things, ordered AT&T to divest its wholly owned BOCs from its Long
Lines Division and manufacturing operations and generally prohibited BOCs from
providing long distance telephone service between LATAs.
ACCESS CHARGES -- Expenses incurred by an IXC and paid to LECs for accessing
the local networks of the LECs in order to originate and terminate long
distance calls and provide the customer connection for private line services.
BOC -- BELL SYSTEM OPERATING COMPANY -- A local exchange carrier owned by any
of the remaining five Regional Bell Operating Companies, which are holding
companies established following the AT&T Divestiture Decree to serve as parent
companies for the BOCs.
BACKBONE -- A centralized high-speed network that interconnects smaller,
independent networks.
BANDWIDTH -- The number of bits of information which can move through a
communications medium in a given amount of time.
CAP -- COMPETITIVE ACCESS PROVIDER -- A company that provides its customers
with an alternative to the LEC for local transport of private line and special
access telecommunications services.
CENTRAL OFFICES -- The switching centers or central switching facilities of the
LECs.
CO-CARRIER STATUS -- A regulatory scheme under which the incumbent LEC is
required to integrate new, competing providers of local exchange service, into
the systems of traffic exchange, inter-carrier compensation, and other
inter-carrier relationships that already exist among LECs in most
jurisdictions.
COLLOCATION -- The ability of a CAP to connect its network to the LEC's central
offices. Physical collocation occurs when a CAP places its network connection
equipment inside the LEC's central offices. Virtual collocation is an
alternative to physical collocation pursuant to which the LEC permits a CAP to
connect its network to the LEC's central offices on comparable terms, even
though the CAP's network connection equipment is not physically located inside
the central offices.
DS-3 -- A data communications circuit capable of transmitting data at 45
megabits per second (sometimes called a T-3).
DEDICATED -- Telecommunications lines dedicated or reserved for use by
particular customers.
DIGITAL -- A method of storing, processing and transmitting information through
the use of distinct electronic or optical pulses that represent the binary
digits 0 and 1. Digital transmission and switching technologies employ a
sequence of these pulses to represent information as opposed to the
continuously variable analog signal. The precise digital numbers minimize
distortion (such as graininess or snow in the case of video transmission, or
static or other background distortion in the case of audio transmission).
EQUAL ACCESS -- Connection provided by a LEC permitting a customer to be
automatically connected to the IXC of the customer's choice when the customer
dials "1".
FDDI -- FIBER DISTRIBUTED DATA INTERFACE -- Based on fiber optics, FDDI is a
100 megabit per second Local Area Network technology used to connect computers,
printers, and workstations at very high speeds. FDDI is also used as backbone
technology to interconnect other LANs.
IXC -- INTEREXCHANGE CARRIER -- A long distance carrier providing services
between local exchanges.
INBOUND "800" SERVICE -- A service that assesses long distance telephone
charges to the called party.
INTERCONNECTION DECISIONS -- Rulings by the FCC announced in September 1992
and August 1993, which require the BOCs and most other large LECs to provide
interconnection in LEC central offices to any CAP, long distance carrier or end
user seeking such interconnection for the provision of interstate special
access and switched access transport services.
INTERNET --A global collection of interconnected computer networks which use
TCP/IP, a common communications protocol.
LANS -- LOCAL AREA NETWORKS -- The interconnection of computers for the
purpose of sharing files, programs and various devices such as printers and
high-speed modems. LANs may include dedicated computers or file servers that
provide a centralized source of shared files and programs.
LATAS -- LOCAL ACCESS AND TRANSPORT AREAS -- The approximately 200 geographic
areas defined pursuant to the AT&T Divestiture Decree. The BOCs are generally
prohibited from providing long distance service between the LATA in which they
provide local exchange services, and any other LATA.
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LEC -- LOCAL EXCHANGE CARRIER -- A company providing local telephone services.
Each BOC is a LEC.
LINE COSTS -- Primarily includes the sum of access charges and transport
charges.
LOCAL EXCHANGE -- A geographic area generally determined by a PUC, in which
calls generally are transmitted without toll charges to the calling or called
party.
LOCAL NUMBER PORTABILITY -- The ability of an end user to change Local
Exchange Carriers while retaining the same telephone number.
NETWORK SWITCHING CENTER -- A location where installed switching equipment
routes long distance calls and records information with respect to calls such
as the length of the call and the telephone numbers of the calling and called
parties.
NETWORK SYSTEMS INTEGRATION -- Involves the creation of turnkey
telecommunications networks and systems including: (i) route and site
selection; (ii) rights of way and legal authorizations and/or acquisition;
(iii) design and engineering of the system, including technology and vendor
assessment and selection, determining fiber optic circuit capacity, and
establishing reliability/flexibility standards; and (iv) project and
construction management, including contract negotiations, purchasing and
logistics, installation as well as testing.
PUC -- PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION -- A state regulatory body empowered to
establish and enforce rules and regulations governing public utility companies
and others, such as the Company, within the state (sometimes referred to as
Public Service Commissions, or PSCs).
PUBLIC SWITCHED NETWORK -- That portion of a LEC's network available to all
users generally on a shared basis (i.e., not dedicated to a particular user).
Traffic along the public switched network is generally switched at the LEC's
central offices.
RBOC -- REGIONAL BELL OPERATING COMPANY -- Any of the remaining five regional
Bell holding companies which the AT&T Divestiture Decree established to serve
as parent companies for the BOCs.
RECIPROCAL COMPENSATION -- The same compensation of a new competitive local
exchange carrier for termination of a local call by the BOC on its network, as
the new competitor pays the BOC for termination of local calls on the BOC
network.
SETTLEMENT RATES -- The rates paid to foreign carriers by United States
international carriers to terminate outbound (from the United States) switched
traffic and by foreign carriers to United States international carriers to
terminate inbound (to the United States) switched traffic.
TCP/IP -- TRANSMISSION CONTROL PROTOCOL/INTERNET PROTOCOL -- A suite of network
protocols that allows computers with different architectures and operating
system software to communicate with other computers on the Internet.
T-1 -- A data communications circuit capable of transmitting data at 1.5
megabits per second.
TARIFF -- The schedule of rates and regulations set by communications common
carriers and filed with the appropriate federal and state regulatory agencies;
the published official list of charges, terms and conditions governing
provision of a specific communications service or facility, which functions in
lieu of a contract between the Subscriber or user and the supplier or carrier.
TOKEN RING -- A local area network technology used to interconnect personal
computers, file servers, printers, and other devices. Token Ring LANs
typically operate at either 4 megabits per second or 16 megabits per second.
TRANSPORT CHARGES -- Expenses paid to facilities-based carriers for
transmission between or within LATAs.
WORLD WIDE WEB OR WEB -- A collection of computer systems supporting a
communications protocol that permits multi-media presentation of information
over the Internet.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
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Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
PART I
Item 1. Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Item 2. Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Item 3. Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Shareholder Matters . . . . . 16
Item 6. Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Item 11. Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management . . . . . . . . . 35
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule and Reports on Form 8-K . . . . . . . . . 42
Signatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1
Exhibit Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The following statements are or may constitute forward-looking statements
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the
"PSLRA"):
(i) certain statements, including possible or assumed future results of
operations of WorldCom, MCI, CompuServe, BFP, ANS (as defined herein) and the
combined companies contained in "Risk Factors" or Item 7. "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations",
Item 7A. "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk", Item 13.
"Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" or elsewhere herein, including
any forecasts, projections and descriptions of anticipated cost savings or
other synergies referred to therein, and certain statements incorporated by
reference from documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"SEC" or the "Commission") by WorldCom, including any statements contained
herein or therein regarding the development of possible or assumed future
results of operations of WorldCom's business, anticipated cost savings or other
synergies, the markets for WorldCom's services and products, anticipated
capital expenditures, regulatory developments, competition or the effects of
the MCI/WorldCom Merger, the CompuServe Merger, the AOL Transaction or the BFP
Merger (as defined herein);
(ii) any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words
"believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends" or similar expressions; and
(iii) other statements contained or incorporated by reference herein regarding
matters that are not historical facts.
Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results
may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking
statements; factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
include, but are not limited to, those discussed under "Risk Factors."
Potential purchasers of WorldCom Common Stock are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on such statements, which speak only as of the date thereof.
The cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section should be
considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking
statements that may be issued by WorldCom or persons acting on its behalf.
WorldCom does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to
such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the
date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
WorldCom, Inc., a Georgia corporation ("WorldCom" or the "Company"), is one of
the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, serving local,
long distance and Internet customers domestically and internationally. The
Company provides telecommunications services to business, government,
telecommunications companies and consumer customers, through its networks of
fiber optic cables, digital microwave, and fixed and transportable satellite
earth stations.
WorldCom is one of the first major facilities-based telecommunications
companies with the capability to provide businesses with high quality local,
long distance, Internet, data and international communications services over
its global networks. With service to points throughout the nation and the
world, WorldCom provides telecommunications products and services including:
switched and dedicated long distance and local products, dedicated and dial-up
Internet access, resale cellular services, 800 services, calling cards,
domestic and international private lines, broadband data services, debit cards,
conference calling, advanced billing systems, enhanced fax and data
connections, high speed data communications, facilities management, local
access to long distance companies, local access to ATM- based backbone service,
web server hosting and integration services and interconnection via Network
Access Points ("NAPs") to Internet service providers ("ISPs").
WorldCom was organized in 1983. On September 15, 1993, a three-way merger
occurred whereby (i) Metromedia Communications Corporation, a Delaware
corporation ("MCC"), merged with and into Resurgens Communications Group, Inc.,
a Georgia corporation ("Resurgens"), and (ii) LDDS Communications, Inc., a
Tennessee corporation ("LDDS-TN"), merged with and into Resurgens (the "Prior
Mergers").
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At the time of the Prior Mergers, the name of Resurgens, the legal survivor,
was changed to LDDS Communications, Inc. and the separate corporate existences
of LDDS-TN and MCC terminated. For accounting purposes, however, LDDS-TN was
the survivor because the former shareholders of LDDS-TN acquired majority
ownership of the Company. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, all
historical information presented herein reflects the operations of LDDS-TN. At
the annual meeting of shareholders held May 25, 1995, shareholders of LDDS
Communications, Inc. voted to change the name of the Company to WorldCom, Inc.,
effective immediately. Information in this document has also been revised to
reflect the stock splits of the Company's common stock.
The Company serves as a holding company for its subsidiaries, the operations
of which are organized along the Company's business lines. References herein
to the Company include the Company and its subsidiaries, unless the context
otherwise requires.
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom acquired CompuServe Corporation ("CompuServe"), a
Delaware corporation, pursuant to the merger (the "CompuServe Merger") of a
wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom, with and into CompuServe. Upon
consummation of the CompuServe Merger, CompuServe became a wholly owned
subsidiary of WorldCom. The CompuServe Merger was effected pursuant to an
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Group,
Inc., CompuServe, WorldCom and Walnut Acquisition Company, L.L.C. dated as of
September 7, 1997.
As a result of the CompuServe Merger, each share of CompuServe common stock was
converted into the right to receive 0.40625 shares of WorldCom common stock
(the "WorldCom Common Stock") or approximately 37.6 million WorldCom common
shares in the aggregate. Prior to the Compuserve Merger, CompuServe operated
primarily through two divisions: Interactive Services and Network Services.
Interactive Services offered worldwide online and Internet access services for
consumers, while Network Services provided worldwide network access, management
and applications, and Internet service to businesses. The CompuServe Merger is
being accounted for as a purchase; accordingly, operating results for
CompuServe will be included from the date of acquisition.
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom also acquired ANS Communications, Inc. ("ANS")
from America Online, Inc. ("AOL"), and has entered into five year contracts
with AOL under which WorldCom and its subsidiaries will provide network
services to AOL (collectively, the "AOL Transaction"). As part of the AOL
Transaction, AOL acquired CompuServe's Interactive Services division and
received a $175 million cash payment from WorldCom. WorldCom retained the
CompuServe Network Services ("CNS") division. ANS provides Internet access to
AOL and AOL's subscribers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom,
Sweden and Japan, and also designs, develops and operates high performance
wide-area networks for business, research, education and governmental
organizations.
On January 29, 1998, WorldCom acquired Brooks Fiber Properties, Inc., a
Delaware corporation ("BFP"), pursuant to the merger (the "BFP Merger") of a
wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom, with and into BFP. Upon consummation of
the BFP Merger, BFP became a wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom. The BFP
Merger was effected pursuant to an Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of
Merger dated as of October 1, 1997 by and among WorldCom, BFP and BV
Acquisition, Inc. BFP is a leading facilities-based provider of competitive
local telecommunications services, commonly referred to as a competitive local
exchange carrier ("CLEC"), in selected cities within the United States. BFP
acquires and constructs its own state-of-the-art fiber optic networks and
facilities and leases network capacity from others to provide long distance
carriers ("IXCs"), ISPs, wireless carriers and business, government and
institutional end users with an alternative to the incumbent local exchange
carriers ("ILECs") for a broad array of high quality voice, data, video
transport and other telecommunications services.
As a result of the BFP Merger, each share of BFP common stock was converted
into the right to receive 1.85 shares of WorldCom Common Stock or approximately
72.6 million WorldCom common shares in the aggregate. The BFP Merger is being
accounted for under the pooling-of-interests method.
Upon effectiveness of the BFP Merger, the then outstanding and unexercised
options and warrants exercisable for shares of BFP common stock were converted
into options and warrants, respectively, exercisable for shares of WorldCom
Common Stock having the same terms and conditions as the BFP options and
warrants, except that the exercise price and the number of shares issuable upon
exercise were divided and multiplied, respectively, by 1.85.
Additional information regarding the CompuServe Merger, the AOL Transaction and
the BFP Merger is contained under the captions "The CompuServe Merger," "The
AOL Transaction" and "The BFP Merger" contained in WorldCom's Current Report on
Form 8-K/A-1 dated November 9, 1997 (filed January 27, 1998), which is
incorporated by reference herein.
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On December 31, 1996, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
MFS Communications Company, Inc. ("MFS"). Through this purchase, the Company
acquired local network access facilities via digital fiber optic cable networks
installed in and around major United States cities, and in several major
European cities. The Company also acquired a network platform, which consists
of Company-owned transmission and switching facilities, and network capacity
leased from other carriers primarily in the United States and Western Europe.
As a result of the merger (the "MFS Merger"), each share of MFS common stock
was converted into the right to receive 2.1 shares of WorldCom Common Stock or
approximately 471.0 million WorldCom common shares in the aggregate. Each
share of MFS Series A 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock ("MFS Series A
Preferred Stock") was converted into the right to receive one share of Series A
8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock of WorldCom ("WorldCom Series A
Preferred Stock") or 94,992 shares of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock in the
aggregate. Each share of MFS Series B Convertible Preferred Stock was
converted into the right to receive one share of Series B Convertible Preferred
Stock of WorldCom ("WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock") or approximately 12.7
million shares of WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock in the aggregate. In
addition, each depositary share representing 1/100th of a share of MFS Series A
Preferred Stock was exchanged for a depositary share representing 1/100th of a
share of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock.
On August 12, 1996, MFS acquired UUNET Technologies, Inc. ("UUNET") through a
merger of a subsidiary of MFS with and into UUNET. UUNET is a leading
worldwide provider of a comprehensive range of Internet access options,
applications, and consulting services to businesses, professionals and on-line
services providers.
On January 5, 1995, WorldCom completed the acquisition of the network services
operations of Williams Telecommunications Group, Inc. ("WilTel"), a subsidiary
of The Williams Companies, Inc., for approximately $2.5 billion in cash (the
"WilTel Acquisition"). Through this purchase, the Company acquired a
nationwide transmission network of approximately 11,000 miles of fiber optic
cable and digital microwave facilities.
On December 30, 1994, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
IDB Communications Group, Inc. ("IDB"). Through this merger (the "IDB
Merger"), the Company acquired a domestic and international communications
network providing private line and public switched long distance
telecommunications services, facsimile and data connections, television and
radio transmission services, and mobile satellite communications capabilities.
As a result of the IDB Merger, each share of common stock of IDB was converted
into the right to receive 0.953758 shares of WorldCom Common Stock, resulting
in the issuance of approximately 71.8 million shares of WorldCom Common Stock.
In addition, WorldCom assumed, on a subordinated basis, jointly and severally
with IDB, the obligations of IDB to pay the principal of and interest on $195.5
million 5% convertible subordinated notes due 2003, issued by IDB. In 1996,
WorldCom exercised its option to redeem all of the outstanding IDB notes. A
majority of the holders of the IDB notes elected to convert their notes into
WorldCom Common Stock prior to the redemption, resulting in the issuance of
approximately 10.3 million shares of WorldCom Common Stock. The IDB Merger was
accounted for under the pooling-of-interests method.
In 1993, upon effectiveness of the Prior Mergers, each share of the outstanding
common stock of LDDS-TN was converted into the right to receive 3.838 shares of
WorldCom Common Stock. The outstanding shares of LDDS-TN Series B 6.5%
Cumulative Senior Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock outstanding were
converted into 2.0 million shares of WorldCom Series 2 6.5% Cumulative Senior
Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series 2 Preferred Stock"). As a
result of the consummation of the Prior Mergers, Metromedia Company
("Metromedia"), the sole stockholder of MCC, received 5.5 million shares of
WorldCom Common Stock, 10.9 million shares of WorldCom Series 1 $2.25
Cumulative Senior Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series 1
Preferred Stock"), warrants to purchase approximately 10.0 million shares of
the WorldCom Common Stock at an average price of $4.18 per share, and $150.0
million in cash. The common stock of Resurgens was unchanged in the Prior
Mergers.
In August 1995, Metromedia converted its Series 1 Preferred Stock into WorldCom
Common Stock and exercised its warrants to acquire WorldCom Common Stock and
immediately sold its position of 61.7 million shares of WorldCom Common Stock
in a public offering. In connection with the preferred stock conversion,
WorldCom made a non-recurring payment of $15.0 million to Metromedia,
representing a discount to the minimum nominal dividends that would have been
payable on the Series 1 Preferred Stock prior to the September 15, 1996
optional call date of approximately $26.6 million (which amount included an
annual dividend requirement of $24.5 million plus accrued dividends to such
call date).
In 1996, the Company exercised its option to redeem its Series 2 Preferred
Stock. Prior to the redemption date, all of the remaining outstanding Series 2
Preferred Stock was converted into 5.3 million shares of WorldCom Common Stock.
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The following table sets forth certain data concerning the Company's
acquisitions, during the past five years, of companies with annual revenues
exceeding $100.0 million, other than the IDB Merger.
Revenues for Fiscal Year
Preceding Acquisition
Name Acquisition Date (In thousands)
---- ---------------- --------------
MCC September 1993 $ 368,532
Resurgens September 1993 151,963
TRT Communications, Inc. September 1993 175,057
WilTel January 1995 921,813
MFS/UUNET December 1996 1,238,533
BFP January 1998 128,782
CNS January 1998 490,440
ANS January 1998 291,571
In addition to the acquisitions reflected in the above table, WorldCom and its
predecessors have completed other acquisitions involving companies each with
annual revenues of less than $100.0 million.
THE MCI/WORLDCOM MERGER
On October 1, 1997, WorldCom announced its intention to commence an exchange
offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of MCI Communications
Corporation ("MCI") common stock, par value $.10 per share ("MCI Common
Stock"), for $41.50 of WorldCom Common Stock, subject to adjustment in certain
circumstances as set forth in materials filed by WorldCom with the SEC. On
November 9, 1997, WorldCom entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the
"MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement") with MCI and a wholly owned acquisition
subsidiary of WorldCom ("MCI Merger Sub"), providing for the merger (the
"MCI/WorldCom Merger") of MCI with and into MCI Merger Sub, with MCI Merger Sub
surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom. As a result of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger, the separate corporate existence of MCI will cease, and
MCI Merger Sub (which will be renamed "MCI Communications Corporation") will
succeed to all the rights and be responsible for all the obligations of MCI in
accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law. Subject to the terms and
conditions of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, each share of MCI Common Stock
outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the MCI/WorldCom Merger
(the "MCI/WorldCom Effective Time") will be converted into the right to receive
that number of shares of WorldCom Common Stock equal to the MCI Exchange Ratio
(as defined below), and each share of MCI Class A common stock, par value $.10
per share ("MCI Class A Common Stock" and, together with the MCI Common Stock,
the "MCI Capital Stock"), outstanding immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom
Effective Time will be converted into the right to receive $51.00 in cash,
without interest thereon. The "MCI Exchange Ratio" means the quotient (rounded
to the nearest 1/10,000) determined by dividing $51.00 by the average of the
high and low sales prices of WorldCom Common Stock (the "MCI/WorldCom Average
Price") as reported on The Nasdaq National Market on each of the 20 consecutive
trading days ending with the third trading day immediately preceding the
MCI/WorldCom Effective Time; provided, however, that the MCI Exchange Ratio
will not be less than 1.2439 or greater than 1.7586. Cash will be paid in lieu
of the issuance of any fractional share of WorldCom Common Stock in the
MCI/WorldCom Merger.
Based on the number of shares of MCI Common Stock outstanding as of January 20,
1998 and assumed MCI Exchange Ratios of 1.2439 and 1.7586, approximately
710,554,160 shares and 1,004,566,722 shares, respectively, of WorldCom Common
Stock would be issued in the MCI/WorldCom Merger. In addition, as of December
31, 1997, outstanding options to purchase shares of MCI Common Stock would be
converted in the MCI/WorldCom Merger to options to acquire an aggregate of
approximately 86,491,688 shares and 122,280,154 shares, respectively, of
WorldCom Common Stock, and the exercise price would be adjusted to reflect the
MCI Exchange Ratio, so that, on exercise, the holders would receive, in the
aggregate, the same number of shares of WorldCom Common Stock as they would
have received had they exercised prior to the MCI/WorldCom Merger, at the same
exercise price.
The MCI/WorldCom Merger was approved by the MCI stockholders and the WorldCom
shareholders at separate meetings held on March 11, 1998. The MCI/WorldCom
Merger is also subject to approvals from the Federal Communications Commission
("FCC"), the Department of Justice ("DOJ") and various state government bodies.
In addition, the MCI/WorldCom Merger is subject to approval by the Commission
of the European Communities (the "European Commission"). WorldCom anticipates
that the MCI/WorldCom Merger will close in mid-year 1998.
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Termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under
certain conditions will require MCI to pay WorldCom $750 million as a
termination fee and to reimburse WorldCom the $450 million alternative
transaction fee and certain related expenses paid by WorldCom to British
Telecommunications plc ("BT"). Further, termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger
Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under certain conditions will require WorldCom to
pay MCI $1.635 billion as a termination fee.
Pursuant to an agreement (the "BT Agreement") among MCI, WorldCom and BT, the
prior merger agreement between BT and MCI (the "BT/MCI Merger Agreement") was
terminated, and WorldCom agreed to pay BT an alternative transaction fee of
$450 million and expenses of $15 million payable to BT in accordance with the
BT/MCI Merger Agreement. These fees were paid on November 12, 1997. WorldCom
also agreed to pay to BT an additional payment of $250 million in the event
that WorldCom is required to make the $1.635 billion payment to MCI in
accordance with the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement. In addition, pursuant to
the BT Agreement, BT voted (or caused to be voted) its shares of MCI Class A
Common Stock in favor of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement and the approval of
the other transactions contemplated by the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement.
The foregoing description of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement and the BT
Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby does not purport to be
complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such agreements,
copies of which are incorporated herein by reference as exhibits to this Annual
Report on Form 10-K and incorporated herein by reference. Additional
information regarding such agreements and the transactions contemplated thereby
is also contained under the caption "The MCI/WorldCom Merger" contained in
WorldCom's Current Report on Form 8-K/A-1 dated November 9, 1997 (filed January
27, 1998), which is incorporated by reference herein.
COMPANY STRATEGY
The Company's strategy is to become a fully integrated communications company
that would be well positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities in
global telecommunications. Consistent with this strategy, the Company believes
that transactions such as the CompuServe Merger, the AOL Transaction, the BFP
Merger, and, if consummated, the MCI/WorldCom Merger, enhance the combined
entity's opportunities for future growth, create a stronger competitor in the
changing telecommunications industry, allow provision of end-to-end bundled
service over global networks, and provide the opportunity for significant cost
savings and operating efficiencies for the combined organization.
SERVICES
GENERAL. The Company is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the
United States, based on 1996 revenues, serving local, long distance and
Internet customers domestically and internationally. The products and services
provided by the Company include switched and dedicated long distance and local
products, dedicated and dial-up Internet access, resale cellular services, 800
services, calling cards, domestic and international private lines, broadband
data services, debit cards, conference calling, advanced billing systems,
enhanced fax and data connections, high speed data communications, facilities
management, local access to long distance companies, local access to ATM-based
backbone service, web server hosting and integration services and
interconnection via NAPs to ISPs. Based on FCC statistics as of December 31,
1996 (the most recent statistics available), WorldCom's share of total toll
service revenues for 1996 was 4.8%.
DOMESTIC LONG DISTANCE AND LOCAL SERVICE. The Company provides a single source
for integrated local and long distance telecommunications services and
facilities management services to business, government, other
telecommunications companies and consumer customers.
There are several ways in which the customer can access the Company's network
for domestic long distance services. In areas where equal access has been made
available, a customer who has selected the Company as its IXC can utilize the
Company's network for inter-LATA long distance calls through "one plus" dialing
of the desired call destination. Customers in areas without equal access or
customers in equal access areas who do not select the Company as their IXC can
utilize the Company's network for all their long distance calls through two
methods of "dial-up access." They can dial a local telephone number to access
the Company's computerized switching equipment and then enter a personal
authorization code and the area code and telephone number of the desired call
destination. Customers may also access the Company's network by dialing 10
plus the three digit Carrier Identification Code belonging to the Company and
the area code and telephone number of the desired call location. Regardless of
the method used, dial-up customers can access the Company's network for all of
their long distance calls, both intra-LATA and inter-LATA. High volume
customers can access the WorldCom network through the use of high-capacity
dedicated circuits.
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Customer billing is generated internally and through a facilities management
agreement under which Electronic Data Systems Corporation performs significant
data processing functions. See Note 7 of Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements.
The market for local exchange services consists of a number of distinct service
components. These service components are defined by specific regulatory tariff
classifications including: (i) local network services, which generally include
basic dial tone charges and private line services; (ii) network access
services, which consist of access charges received by LECs from long distance
carriers for the local portion of long distance telephone calls; (iii) long
distance network services, which include the variable portion of charges
received by LECs for intra-LATA long distance calls; and (iv) additional value
added services such as caller identification, voice mail and call waiting.
Unlike the RBOCs and other large LECs which were organized geographically in
response to the regulatory environment that existed before the AT&T Divesture
Decree, the Company is organized around its customers to take advantage of
ongoing technological, competitive and regulatory changes.
INTERNATIONAL SERVICES. The Company offers international public switched
voice, private line and data services to other carriers and to commercial,
government and consumer customers. The Company has over 200 operating
agreements with foreign carriers to provide switched voice and/or private line
services, thereby making the Company a leading participant in the international
telecommunications market.
The Company offers public switched international telecommunications services
worldwide and provides direct services to approximately 60 foreign countries.
The Company sells public switched telecommunications services to corporate and
residential customers, and to domestic long distance carriers that lack
transmission facilities to locations served by the Company or need more
transmission capacity. Customers can access the Company's international
switching centers to make international telephone calls via dedicated
connections or via dial-up access.
The Company both delivers and receives international traffic pursuant to its
operating agreements. The terms of most switched voice operating agreements,
as well as established FCC policy, require that inbound switched voice traffic
from the foreign carrier to the United States be routed to United States
international carriers, like WorldCom, in proportion to the percentage of
United States outbound traffic routed by that United States international
carrier to the foreign carrier. The Company's revenues and costs of sales are
sensitive to changes in international settlement rates and international
traffic routing patterns.
The Company also provides permanent and temporary international private line
services to customers for a number of applications. These applications
generally involve establishing private, international point-to-point
communications links for customers with high traffic volumes or special needs,
such as greater security or route diversity. The Company has private line
operating agreements with approximately 160 foreign correspondents. The
Company provides international private line services for a range of financial,
airline, commercial and governmental communications networks.
WorldCom also provides switched voice, private line and/or value-added data
services over its own facilities and leased facilities in the United Kingdom,
Germany, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, Ireland
and other European countries. The Company operates metropolitan digital fiber
optic networks in London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Stockholm and Brussels.
The Company is constructing a high capacity digital fiber optic network to
interconnect its metropolitan networks in Europe. In addition, WorldCom,
together with its joint venture partner Cable & Wireless, plc, placed into
service in the first quarter of 1998 a high capacity digital fiber optic
undersea cable between the United States and the United Kingdom. The Company
also offers certain international services over leased facilities in certain
Asian markets, including Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. In addition, the
Company was granted authority in the first quarter of 1998 to own and operate
domestic and international facilities in Japan. Such operations are subject
to certain risks including licensing requirements, changes in foreign
government regulations and telecommunications standards, interconnection and
leased line charges, taxes, fluctuating exchange rates, various trade barriers,
and political and economic instability.
INTERNET. The Company provides a comprehensive range of Internet access and
value-added options, applications and consulting services tailored to meet the
needs of businesses and professionals. The Company's Internet operations are
organized into two functionally inter-related business groups - Internet
services and value-added Internet services. The Internet services group
focuses on Internet access (dial-up and dedicated, both retail and wholesale)
as well as fax-over-the-Internet (announced in 1997 and commercially introduced
in 1998). The value-added Internet services group offers value-added data
products and services, including transaction services (such as credit card
transaction processing), managed networking services and applications (such as
virtual private networks, Intranets and Extranets), secure remote Internet
access, web hosting and electronic commerce.
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OTHER SERVICES. The Company offers a broad range of related services which
enhance customer convenience, add value and provide additional revenue sources.
Advanced "800" service offers features for caller and customer convenience,
including a variety of call routing and call blocking options, customer
reconfiguration, termination overflow to switched or dedicated lines, Dialed
Number Identification Service (DNIS), real-time Automatic Number Identification
(ANI), and flexible after-hours call handling services. The Company's travel
cards offer worldwide calling services, caller-friendly voice mail with message
waiting signal, message storage and delivery, conference calling, personal
greetings, speed dialing, customer deactivation and reactivation of cards,
customer card, and private-label card options. The Company is also a market
leader for the prepaid calling card which allows a purchaser to pay in advance
for a specific number of long distance minutes. The Company's prepaid calling
card may be purchased through several major retailers in the United States and
continues to be a growing source of revenues for the Company.
The Company also designs, installs, and integrates "turnkey" transmission
facilities and communications networks primarily for international customers.
Services provided include fixed and transportable customer premise earth
stations, network management systems, system integration consulting and project
management.
The Company also provides development, design and engineering, project
management, construction and support of networks and systems to a range of
third-party customers. It is an industry leader in the creation of advanced
communication and transportation systems, through the integration of advanced
technologies for telecommunications, transportation and security applications.
TRANSMISSION FACILITIES
The Company's operating subsidiaries own domestic long distance, international
and multi-city local service fiber optic networks with access to additional
fiber optic networks through lease agreements with other carriers.
Deployed in business centers throughout the United States, Europe and the
United Kingdom, the Company's local networks are constructed using ring
topology. Transmission networks are based on either conventional asynchronous
multiplexing or SONET ("Synchronous Optical Network") equipment. European
networks are based on Synchronous Digital Hierarchy ("SDH") technology.
Network backbones are installed in conduits owned by the Company or leased from
third parties such as utilities, railroads, long distance carriers, state
highway authorities, local governments and transit authorities. Lease
arrangements are generally executed under multi-year terms with renewal options
and are non-exclusive.
Buildings are connected to the Company's local networks using fiber extensions
(known as "laterals") which are then connected to a local distribution loop and
ultimately to a high speed fiber backbone which originates and terminates at
one of the Company's central nodes. Transmission signals are generally sent
through the network simultaneously on both primary and secondary paths thereby
providing route diversity and disaster protection. Buildings served via a
Company- owned lateral have a discrete Company presence (referred to as a
"remote hub" or "building point-of-presence") located within the building.
Generally, Company-owned internal building wiring connects the remote hub to
the customer premises. Customer terminal equipment is connected to
Company-provided electronic equipment generally located in the remote hub where
ongoing customer transmission signals are digitized, combined and converted
into optical signals for transport to the central node. Signals are then
reconfigured and routed to their final destination.
To serve customers in buildings that are not located directly on the fiber
network, the Company utilizes leased T-1s or unbundled local loops obtained
from the LECs.
Internationally, the Company owns fiber optic facilities on most major
international undersea cable systems in the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean regions,
providing fiber optic cable connections between the United States and the
Pacific Rim and the United States and Europe. In the first quarter of 1998,
WorldCom, together with its joint venture partner Cable & Wireless, plc, placed
into service a high capacity digital fiber optic undersea cable between the
United States and the United Kingdom. WorldCom also owns fiber optic cable for
services to the Commonwealth of Independent States, Central America, South
America and the Caribbean. The Company also owns and operates 20 international
gateway satellite earth stations, which enable it to provide public switched
and private line voice and data communications to and from locations throughout
the world. The Company also provides international service by leasing
submarine cable capacity from international carriers.
The Company's ability to generate profits is largely dependent upon its ability
to optimize the different types of transmission facilities used to provide the
customer service. These facilities are complemented by a least cost routing
plan which is accomplished through digital switching technology and network
routing software. Calls can be routed over fixed cost transmission
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facilities or variable cost transmission facilities. Fixed cost facilities,
including the Company's owned networks, are typically most cost effective for
routes that carry high volumes of traffic. In addition, a variety of lease
agreements for fixed and variable cost (usage sensitive) services ensure
diversity in processing calls.
NETWORK SWITCHING
The Company owns or leases computerized network switching equipment that routes
its customers' long distance calls. The Company's digital switching equipment
is interconnected with digital transmission lines. The Company's switching
networks utilize SS7 common channel signaling, which increases efficiencies by
eliminating connect time delays and provides "look ahead" routing. In addition
to networking, the Company's switching equipment verifies customers' pre-
assigned authorization codes, records billing data and monitors system quality
and performance.
In addition to the switching centers, the Company has a number of other network
facility locations known as points of presence ("POPs"). These POPs allow the
Company to concentrate customers' traffic at locations where the Company has
not installed switching equipment. The traffic is carried to switching centers
from POPs over the Company's digital transmission network.
The Company's local switches are capable of providing both local and long
distance call functions while the gateway switches have the specific purpose of
transferring domestically originated calls to the rest of the world. It is the
intention of the Company to deploy a number of additional switches in 1998 both
in existing CAP service areas and in new markets not currently providing
facilities-based switched local service.
The Company's ATM network utilizes the Company's intracity fiber connections to
customers, Company-owned ATM switches and WorldCom's high capacity fiber optic
networks. ATM is a switching and transmission technology based on
encapsulation of information in short (53-byte) fixed-length packets or
"cells." ATM switching was specifically developed to allow switching and
transmission of mixed voice, data and video (sometimes referred to as
"multimedia" information). In addition, certain characteristics of ATM
switching allow switching information to be directly encoded in integrated
circuitry rather than in software.
WorldCom's frame relay network utilizes Company-owned and maintained frame
relay switches and WorldCom's high capacity fiber optic networks to provide
data networking services to commercial customers. Networking equipment at
customer sites connects to the WorldCom frame relay switches which in turn are
connected to each other via the extensive WorldCom fiber optic networks. Frame
relay utilizes variable length frames to transport customer data from one
customer location across WorldCom networks to another customer location.
Customers utilize the frame relay technology to support traditional business
applications such as connecting local networks and financial applications.
INTERNET NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE
The Company's Internet infrastructure is based on its own OC-12c and DS-3
network which is ATM-based in metropolitan areas where OC-12c has been deployed
to support the OC-12c interfaces. This network infrastructure enables
customers to access the Internet through dedicated lines or by placing a local
telephone call (dial-up) through a modem to the nearest equipment location for
the Company. Once connected, the customer's traffic is routed through the
Company's networks to the desired Internet location, whether on the Company's
networks or elsewhere on the Internet. The Company will continue in 1998 to
migrate the network to support OC-12c in additional areas and to upgrade
additional portions of the network to ATM.
NETWORK STATISTICS
Global network statistics of the Company, including BFP, CNS and ANS, are as
follows:
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As of December 31,
----------------------------
1997 1996
---------- ---------
Domestic long distance route miles 19,619 12,589
Local domestic and international fiber miles 547,529 327,465
Local domestic and international route miles 6,741 4,899
Local circuits in service (voice grade
equivalents) 10,702,851 6,387,549
Buildings connected 27,785 16,253
Active voice switches-local and long distance 138 93
Telco Collocations 345 199
RATES AND CHARGES
LONG DISTANCE AND LOCAL SERVICE. The Company charges switched customers on the
basis of a fixed rate per line prescribed to the Company plus minutes or
partial minutes of usage at rates that vary with the distance, duration and
time of day of the call. For local service, customers are billed a fixed
charge plus usage. The rates charged are not affected by the particular
transmission facilities selected by the Company's switching centers for
transmission of the call. Additional discounts are available to customers who
generate higher volumes of monthly usage.
Domestic and international business services originating in the United States
are primarily billed in six-second increments; others are billed in partial
minutes rounded to the next minute. Switched voice services originating in
international markets are billed in increments subject to local market
conditions and interconnect agreements. Switched long distance and local
services are billed in arrears, with monthly billing statements itemizing date,
time, duration and charges; private line services are billed monthly in
advance, with the invoice indicating applicable rates by circuit.
The Company's rates are generally designed to be competitive with those charged
by other long distance and local carriers. The rates offered by the Company
may be adjusted in the future if other IXCs, LECs and CAPs continue to adjust
their rates. To date, continued improvement in the domestic and international
cost structures have allowed the Company to offer competitive rates while
maintaining acceptable margins.
INTERNET ACCESS AND SERVICES. The Company's Internet access options are sold
in the United States and in many foreign countries for domestic Internet
access. Prices vary, based on service type. Due to various factors, such as
available telecommunications technology, foreign government regulation, and
market demand, the service options offered outside of the United States vary as
to speed, price and suitability for various purposes.
MARKETING AND SALES
WorldCom markets its local, long distance and international calling and
Internet-based services primarily through a direct sales force targeted at
specific geographic markets. WorldCom's sales force of approximately 2,400
people also provides advanced sales specialization for the data and
international marketplaces, including domestic and international private line
services.
In each of its geographic markets, the Company employs full service support
teams that provide its customers with prompt and personal attention. With
offices nationwide, WorldCom's localized management, sales and customer support
are designed to engender a high degree of customer loyalty and service quality.
COMPETITION
Virtually every aspect of the telecommunications industry is extremely
competitive, and WorldCom expects that competition will intensify in the
future. WorldCom (including CNS, ANS and BFP) faces significant competition
from carriers and other companies with greater market share and financial
resources. WorldCom competes domestically with incumbent providers, which have
historically dominated local telecommunications, and with long distance
carriers, for the provision of long distance services. Sometimes the incumbent
provider offers both local and long distance services. The ILECs presently
have numerous advantages as a result of their historic monopoly control over
local exchanges. A continuing trend toward business combinations and alliances
in the telecommunications industry may create significant new competitors to
WorldCom. Many of WorldCom's existing and potential competitors have
financial, personnel and other resources significantly greater than those of
WorldCom. WorldCom also faces competition from competitors in every area of
their businesses, including competitive access providers operating fiber optic
networks, in some cases in conjunction with the local cable television
operator. Several competitors have announced the
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deployment of nationwide fiber networks using advanced state-of-the-art
technologies. AT&T Corp. ("AT&T") and Sprint Corporation ("Sprint") have
indicated their intention to offer local telecommunications services in major
United States markets using their own facilities, including in AT&T's case, the
announced acquisition of the facilities and business of Teleport Communications
Group, Inc., or by resale of the local exchange carriers' or other providers'
services. In addition, WorldCom competes with equipment vendors and installers
and telecommunications management companies with respect to certain portions of
their businesses.
Overseas, WorldCom competes with incumbent providers, some of which still have
special regulatory status and the exclusive rights to provide certain services,
and virtually all of which have historically dominated their local, domestic
long distance and international services business. These incumbent providers
have numerous advantages including existing facilities, customer loyalty, and
substantial financial resources. WorldCom also competes with other service
providers, many of which are affiliated with incumbent providers in other
countries. Typically, WorldCom must devote extensive resources to obtaining
regulatory approvals necessary to operate overseas, and then to obtaining
access to and interconnection with the incumbent's network on a
non-discriminatory basis.
WorldCom may also be subject to additional competition due to the development
of new technologies and increased availability of domestic and international
transmission capacity. For example, even though fiber optic networks, such as
that of WorldCom, are now widely used for long distance transmission, it is
possible that the desirability of such networks could be adversely affected by
changing technology. The telecommunications industry is in a period of rapid
technological evolution, marked by the introduction of new product and service
offerings and increasing satellite and fiber optic transmission capacity for
services similar to those provided by WorldCom. WorldCom cannot predict which
of many possible future product and service offerings will be important to
maintain its competitive position or what expenditures will be required to
develop and provide such products and services. For most of the Company's
communications services, the factor's critical to customer's choice of a
service provider are cost, ease of use, speed of installation, quality,
reputation and in some cases, geography and network size.
Under the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the "Telecom Act") and ensuing
federal and state regulatory initiatives, barriers to local exchange
competition are being removed. The introduction of such competition, however,
also establishes, in part, the predicate for the BOCs to provide in-region
interexchange long distance services if the constitutionality of the Telecom
Act is upheld. The BOCs are currently allowed to offer certain "incidental"
long distance service in-region and to offer out-of-region long distance
services. Once the BOCs are allowed to offer in- region long distance
services, they could be in a position to offer single source local and long
distance service similar to that being offered by WorldCom. WorldCom expects
that the increased competition made possible by regulatory reform will result
in certain additional pricing and margin pressures in the domestic
telecommunications services business. Such of the additional pressures as may
result from BOC provision of in-region interexchange long distance services may
be accelerated if the ruling of the United States District Court for the
Northern District of Texas on the constitutionality of the Telecom Act's
restrictions is ultimately upheld on appeal.
WorldCom also competes in offering data communications services, including
Internet access and related services. This is also an extremely competitive
business and WorldCom expects that competition will intensify in the future.
WorldCom believes that the ability to compete successfully in this arena
depends on a number of factors, including: industry presence; the ability to
execute a rapid expansion strategy; the capacity, reliability and security of
its network infrastructure; ease of access to and navigation on the Internet;
the pricing policies of its competitors and suppliers; the timing of the
introduction of new products and services by the Company and its competitors;
the Company's ability to support industry standards; and industry and general
economic trends. The success of WorldCom will depend heavily upon its ability
to provide high quality data communication services, including Internet
connectivity and value-added Internet services at competitive prices.
Major telecommunications and data communications companies have expanded their
current services to compete fully in offering data communication services,
including Internet access and value-added services, and WorldCom expects
additional telecommunications and data communications companies to continue to
compete in this arena. WorldCom believes that new competitors, including large
computer hardware, software, media and other technology and communications
companies will also offer data communications services, resulting in even
greater competition for the combined company. Certain companies, including
AT&T, GTE Corporation ("GTE"), Intermedia Communications, Inc., Teleport
Communications Group Inc., Qwest Communications, LCI Communications, Inc. and
PSINet, Inc., have obtained or expanded their Internet access products and
services as a result of network deployment, acquisitions and strategic
investments. Such acquisitions may permit WorldCom's competitors to devote
greater resources to the development and marketing of new competitive products
and services and the marketing of existing competitive products and services.
WorldCom expects these acquisitions and strategic investments to increase, thus
creating significant new competitors to the Company. In addition, WorldCom
expects new companies, such as Level 3, to enter this arena and provide
additional competition for the Company's service offerings.
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As the Company continues to expand data communications operations outside of
the United States, the Company will be forced to compete with and buy services
from incumbent providers, some of which are government-owned and/or still have
special regulatory status and the exclusive rights to provide certain essential
services. The Company will also encounter competition from companies whose
operating styles are substantially different from those that it usually
encounters. For example, in Europe, WorldCom's subsidiaries compete directly
with: (1) telecommunications companies, such as BT, Deutsche Telekom AG and
others; (2) global telecommunications alliances such as Global One (Deutsche
Telekom AG, France Telecom and Sprint), Unisource/Uniworld (AT&T, Telia AB of
Sweden, PTT Telecom Netherlands, and Swisscom), and others; and (3) other
Internet access providers, such as Demon Internet Limited. Foreign
competitors may also possess a better understanding of their local areas and
may have better working relationships with, or control of, local
telecommunications companies. There can be no assurance that the Company can
obtain similar levels of local knowledge, and failure to obtain that knowledge
could place the Company at a serious competitive disadvantage.
REGULATION
GENERAL. WorldCom's operating subsidiaries are subject to varying degrees of
federal, state, local and international regulation. In the United States,
WorldCom's subsidiaries are most heavily regulated by the states, especially
for the provision of local exchange services. Each such subsidiary must be
separately certified in each state to offer local exchange and intrastate long
distance services. No state, however, subjects WorldCom to price cap or rate
of return regulation, nor is WorldCom currently required to obtain FCC
authorization for installation or operation of its network facilities used for
domestic services, other than licenses for specific terrestrial microwave and
satellite earth station facilities which utilize radio frequency spectrum. FCC
approval is required, however, for the installation and operation of its
international facilities and services. WorldCom is subject to varying degrees
of regulation in the foreign jurisdictions in which it conducts business
including authorization for the installation and operation of network
facilities. Although the trend in federal, state and international regulation
appears to favor increased competition, no assurance can be given that changes
in current or future regulations adopted by the FCC, state or foreign
regulators or legislative initiatives in the United States or abroad would not
have a material adverse effect on WorldCom.
On February 8, 1996, President Clinton signed the Telecom Act, which permits
the BOCs to provide domestic and international long distance service to
customers located outside of the BOCs' home regions; permits a petitioning BOC
to provide domestic and international long distance services to customers
within its operating area on a state by state basis upon a finding by the FCC
that a petitioning BOC has satisfied certain criteria for opening up its local
exchange network to competition and that its provision of long distance
services would further the public interest; and removes existing barriers to
entry into local service markets. Additionally, there were significant changes
in: the manner in which carrier-to-carrier arrangements are regulated at the
federal and state level; procedures to revise universal service standards; and
penalties for unauthorized switching of customers. The FCC has instituted and,
in most instances completed, proceedings addressing the implementation of this
legislation.
In implementing the Telecom Act, the FCC established nationwide rules designed
to encourage new entrants to participate in the local services markets through
interconnection with the ILECs, resale of ILEC's retail services and use of
individual and combinations of unbundled network elements. These rules set the
groundwork for the statutory criteria governing BOC entry into the long
distance market. Appeals of the FCC order adopting those rules were
consolidated before the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
(the "Eighth Circuit"). The Eighth Circuit found constitutional challenges to
certain practices implementing cost provisions of the Telecom Act that were
ordered by certain PUCs to be premature, but vacated significant portions of
the FCC's nationwide pricing rules and vacated an FCC rule requiring that
unbundled network elements be provided on a combined basis. In response to
requests by the Solicitor General, on behalf of the FCC, and certain other
parties, including WorldCom, the United States Supreme Court has agreed to
review the decision of the Eighth Circuit. Certain BOCs have also raised
constitutional challenges to provisions of the Telecom Act restricting BOC
provision of long distance services, manufacturing of telecommunications
equipment, electronic publishing and alarm monitoring services. On December
31, 1997, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas
(the "Texas District Court") ruled that these restrictions violate the Bill of
Attainder Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Currently, this decision only
applies to SBC Corporation ("SBC"), US WEST Communications Group ("US WEST"),
and Bell Atlantic Corporation ("Bell Atlantic"). At the request of various
parties, on February 11, 1998, the Texas District Court issued a stay of its
decision pending appeal. AT&T, MCI, the DOJ, the FCC and other parties have
appealed the decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit. BellSouth Corporation ("BellSouth") raised the Bill of Attainder
issue in its appeal before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit of the electronic publishing restrictions imposed under the Telecom
Act. A decision on that appeal is pending. WorldCom cannot predict either the
ultimate outcome of these or future challenges to the Telecom Act, any related
appeals of regulatory or court decisions, or the eventual effect on WorldCom's
business or the industry in general.
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The FCC has denied applications filed by Ameritech Corporation ("Ameritech"),
SBC and BellSouth seeking authority to provide interLATA long distance service
in Michigan, Oklahoma, Louisiana and South Carolina, respectively. SBC
appealed the FCC's denial of its application covering Oklahoma to the United
States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The Court has
affirmed the FCC's denial of that application. In its denial of an Ameritech
application and a BellSouth application, the FCC provided detailed guidance to
applicants regarding the obligations of the applicants, the format of future
applications, the content of future applications, and the review standards that
it will apply in evaluating any future applications. The National Association
of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and several state regulatory commissions
have appealed jurisdictional aspects of that Ameritech application denial to
the Eighth Circuit. WorldCom cannot predict either the outcome of these
appeals, or the BOCs' willingness to abide by these FCC guidelines, or the
timing or outcome of future applications submitted to the FCC. Additionally,
several RBOCs have filed petitions requesting that the FCC forbear from
imposing the line of business restrictions upon their data service offerings
and data network deployment. Other BOCs have announced their intention to file
applications at the FCC for authority to provide interLATA services.
Additionally, the FCC and several PUCs are considering a proposal that would
allow BOCs electing to create separate wholesale network and retail
organizations to enter the long distance market on an accelerated basis.
WorldCom cannot predict the outcome of these proceedings or whether the outcome
will have a material impact upon its consolidated financial position or results
of operations.
On May 7, 1997, the FCC announced that it will issue a series of orders that
will reform Universal Service Subsidy allocations and adopted various reforms
to the existing rate structure for interstate access services provided by the
ILECs that are designed to reduce access charges, over time, to more
economically efficient levels and rate structures. It also affirmed that
information service providers (including, among others, ISPs) should not be
subject to existing access charges ("ISP Exemption"). Petitions for
reconsideration of, among other things, the access service and ISP Exemption
related actions were filed before the FCC and appeals taken to various United
States Courts of Appeals. On reconsideration, the FCC in significant part
affirmed the access charge and ISP Exemption actions and the court appeals have
been consolidated before the Eighth Circuit. Also, several state agencies have
started proceedings to address the reallocation of implicit subsidies contained
in the access rates and retail service rates to state universal service funds.
Access charges are a principal component of WorldCom's telecommunications
expense. Additionally, modification of the ISP Exemption could have an adverse
effect on the Company's Internet-related services business. WorldCom cannot
predict either the outcome of these appeals or whether or not the result(s)
will have a material impact upon its consolidated financial position or results
of operations.
The FCC issued on December 24, 1996 a Notice of Inquiry to seek comment on
whether it should consider various actions relating to interstate information
services and the Internet. The FCC recognized that these services and recent
technological advances may be constrained by current regulatory practices that
have their foundations in traditional circuit switched telecommunications
services and technologies. Based upon this and other proceedings, the FCC may
permit telecommunications companies, BOCs, or others to increase the scope or
reduce the cost of their Internet access services. WorldCom cannot predict the
effect that the Notice of Inquiry, the Telecom Act or any future legislation,
regulation or regulatory changes may have on its consolidated financial
position or results of operations.
INTERNATIONAL. In December 1996, the FCC adopted a new policy that makes it
easier for United States international carriers to obtain authority to route
international public switched voice traffic to and from the United States
outside of the traditional settlement rate and proportionate return regimes.
In February 1997, the United States entered into a World Trade Organization
Agreement (the "WTO Agreement") that should have the effect of liberalizing the
provision of switched voice telephone and other telecommunications services in
scores of foreign countries over the next several years. The WTO Agreement
became effective in February 1998. In order to comply with United States
commitments to the WTO Agreement, the FCC implemented new rules in February
1998 that liberalize existing policies regarding (i) the services that may be
provided by foreign affiliated United States international common carriers,
including carriers controlled or more than 25 percent owned by foreign carriers
that have market power in their home markets, and (ii) the provision of
international switched voice services outside of the traditional settlement
rate and proportionate return regimes. The new rules make it much easier for
foreign affiliated carriers to enter the United States market for the provision
of international services.
In August 1997, the FCC adopted mandatory settlement rate benchmarks. These
benchmarks are intended to reduce the rates that United States carriers pay
foreign carriers to terminate traffic in their home countries. The FCC will
also prohibit a United States carrier affiliated with a foreign carrier from
providing facilities-based service to the foreign carrier's home market until
and unless the foreign carrier has implemented a settlement rate within the
benchmark. The FCC also adopted new rules that will liberalize the provision
of switched services over private lines to World Trade Organization ("WTO")
member countries, by allowing such services on routes where 50% or more of
United States billed traffic is being terminated in the foreign country at or
below the applicable settlement rate benchmark or where the foreign country's
rules concerning provision of international switched services over private
lines are deemed equivalent to United States rules.
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Although the FCC's new policies and implementation of the WTO Agreement may
result in lower costs to WorldCom to terminate international traffic, there is
a risk that the revenues that WorldCom will receive from inbound international
traffic may decrease to an even greater degree. The implementation of the WTO
Agreement may also make it easier for foreign carriers with market power in
their home markets to offer United States and foreign customers end-to-end
services to the disadvantage of WorldCom, which may continue to face
substantial obstacles in obtaining from foreign governments and foreign
carriers the authority and facilities to provide such end-to-end services.
Further, many foreign carriers have challenged, in court and at the FCC, the
FCC's order adopting mandatory settlement rate benchmarks. If the FCC's
settlement rate benchmark order was to be overturned, it could accelerate the
full-fledged entry of foreign carriers into the United States, and make it more
advantageous for foreign carriers to route international traffic into the
United States at low, cost-based termination rates, while United States
carriers would continue to have little choice but to route international
traffic into most foreign countries at much higher, above cost, settlement
rates.
FOREIGN OWNERSHIP. The Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the
"Communications Act") prohibits any entity in which more than 20% of the
capital stock is owned of record or voted by noncitizens or a foreign
government or its representative from receiving or holding a common carrier
radio transmission license (including microwave). The Communications Act also
prohibits subsidiaries of any entity of which more than 25% of the capital
stock is owned of record or voted by noncitizens from receiving or holding
common carrier radio transmission licenses (including microwave), if the FCC
finds that the public interest would be served by the refusal or revocation of
the licenses under those circumstances. Under its new rules implementing the
WTO Agreement, the FCC presumes that foreign investment by entities from WTO
member countries is in the public interest. The FCC's rules make it much
easier for foreign entities to own significant interests in, or control, United
States common carrier radio transmission licensees. The Company's charter
restricts aggregate beneficial ownership of the WorldCom Common Stock by
certain foreign shareholders to 20% of the total outstanding stock, and
subjects excess shares to redemption.
RISK FACTORS
Prospective investors should carefully consider the following risk factors,
together with the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form
10-K, in evaluating the Company and its business before purchasing its
securities. In particular, prospective investors should note that this Annual
Report on Form 10-K contains forward- looking statements within the meaning of
the PSLRA and that actual results could differ materially from those
contemplated by such statements. See "Cautionary Statement Regarding
Forward-Looking Statements." The factors listed below represent certain
important factors the Company believes could cause such results to differ.
These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the general or
specific risks that may affect the Company. It should be recognized that other
risks may be significant, presently or in the future, and the risks set forth
below may affect the Company to a greater extent than indicated.
Business and other risks described herein as applicable to WorldCom are
generally also applicable to MCI.
UNCERTAINTIES IN INTEGRATING THE ACQUIRED COMPANIES AND ACHIEVING COST SAVINGS.
WorldCom entered into the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, the BFP Merger
Agreement, the CompuServe Merger Agreement and the AOL Agreement, in each case
with the expectation that the transactions will result in certain benefits,
including, without limitation, cost savings, operating efficiencies, revenue
enhancements and other synergies. Achieving the benefits of the MCI/WorldCom
Merger (which would be significantly larger than previous acquisitions
completed by WorldCom), the BFP Merger, the CompuServe Merger and the AOL
Transaction, will depend in part upon the integration of the businesses of
WorldCom together with BFP, CNS, ANS, and MCI in an efficient manner, and there
can be no assurance that this will occur. The consolidation of operations will
require substantial attention from management. The diversion of management
attention and any difficulties encountered in the transition and integration
processes could have a material adverse effect on the revenues, levels of
expenses and operating results of the combined companies. There can be no
assurance that the Company will realize any of the anticipated benefits of the
CompuServe Merger, the MCI/WorldCom Merger, the BFP Merger or the AOL
Transaction. For a discussion of other factors and assumptions related to the
synergy estimates, see "The MCI/WorldCom Merger--Effects of the MCI/WorldCom
Merger; Estimated Synergies," contained in WorldCom's Current Report on Form
8-K/A-1 dated November 9, 1997 (filed January 27, 1998), which is incorporated
herein by reference.
NECESSITY OF RECEIVING GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS PRIOR TO THE MCI/WORLDCOM MERGER;
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FAILURE TO OBTAIN APPROVALS OF CERTAIN GOVERNMENTAL
AUTHORITIES. The consummation of the MCI/WorldCom Merger is conditioned upon
the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, and
confirmation from the European Commission by way of a decision under Council
Regulation 4064/89 that the MCI/WorldCom Merger does not create or strengthen a
dominant position as a result of which competition would be significantly
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impeded in the European common market. In addition, other filings with,
notifications to and authorizations and approvals of, various governmental
agencies, both domestic and foreign, with respect to the transactions
contemplated by the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, relating primarily to the
FCC and state PUCs, must be made and received prior to consummation of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger. There can be no assurance that such authorizations,
approvals or decisions will be granted, or, if granted, will not contain
certain material conditions or restrictions, that an injunction will not be
issued by a court of competent jurisdiction enjoining the consummation of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger or that a challenge to the MCI/WorldCom Merger on the
grounds that it is not compatible with the European common market will not be
made, or if a challenge is made, what the result will be.
Consummation of the MCI/WorldCom Merger is subject to additional approvals from
certain governmental authorities. If such approvals have not been received at
such time as all other material conditions to the MCI/WorldCom Merger have been
satisfied or waived, MCI and WorldCom may nonetheless determine to consummate
the MCI/WorldCom Merger. Although MCI and WorldCom are seeking such approvals,
it is uncertain whether such approvals will be timely received from, among
others, every jurisdiction in which MCI and WorldCom are authorized to do
business. If MCI and WorldCom determine to consummate the MCI/WorldCom Merger
without having received all such approvals, no assurance can be given that any
resulting loss of business would not have a material adverse effect on the
businesses, prospects, financial condition or results of operations of WorldCom
and MCI on a combined basis. See "The MCI/WorldCom Merger -- Certain Regulatory
Filings and Approvals" contained in WorldCom's Current Report on Form 8-K/A-1
dated November 9, 1997 (filed January 27, 1998), which is incorporated herein
by reference.
DEBT SERVICE, INTEREST RATE FLUCTUATIONS, OTHER RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS, AND
CAPITAL SPENDING. In connection with the MCI/WorldCom Merger, WorldCom has
agreed to pay BT $51.00 in cash without interest for each share of MCI Class A
Common Stock it owns, or approximately $7 billion in the aggregate.
Additionally, WorldCom has paid BT fees of $465 million. WorldCom expects to
fund this commitment through a combination of bank and bond financing.
Increases in interest rates on WorldCom's debt would have an adverse effect
upon WorldCom's reported net income and cash flow. WorldCom believes that the
combined operations of WorldCom, CNS, ANS, BFP and, upon consummation of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger, MCI, would generate sufficient cash flow to service
WorldCom's debt and capital requirements; however, economic downturns,
increased interest rates and other adverse developments, including factors
beyond WorldCom's control, could impair its ability to service its
indebtedness. In addition, the cash flow required to service WorldCom's debt
may reduce its ability to fund internal growth, additional acquisitions and
capital improvements.
The development of the businesses of the combined company (including MCI, BFP,
CNS and ANS) and the installation and expansion of its domestic and
international networks will continue to require significant capital
expenditures. Failure to have access to sufficient funds for capital
expenditures on acceptable terms or the failure to achieve capital expenditure
synergies may require the combined company to delay or abandon some of its
plans, which could have a material adverse effect on the success of the
combined company.
ACQUISITION INTEGRATION. A major portion of the Company's growth in recent
years has resulted from acquisitions, which involve certain operational and
financial risks. Operational risks include the possibility that an acquisition
does not ultimately provide the benefits originally anticipated by WorldCom's
management, while WorldCom continues to incur operating expenses to provide the
services formerly provided by the acquired company. Financial risks involve
the incurrence of indebtedness as the result of the acquisition and the
consequent need to service that indebtedness. In addition, the issuance of
stock in connection with acquisitions dilutes the voting power and may dilute
the economic interests of existing shareholders. In carrying out its
acquisition strategy, the Company attempts to minimize the risk of unexpected
liabilities and contingencies associated with acquired businesses through
planning, investigation and negotiation, but there is no assurance that the
Company will be successful in doing so. In addition, there can be no assurance
that the Company will be successful in identifying attractive acquisition
candidates or completing additional acquisitions on favorable terms.
RISKS OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS. The Company derives substantial revenues by
providing international communications services to United States commercial and
carrier customers. Such operations are subject to certain risks such as
changes in United States or foreign government regulatory policies, disruption,
suspension or termination of operating agreements, and currency fluctuations.
In particular, the Company's revenues and costs of sales are sensitive to
changes in international settlement rates and international traffic routing
patterns. The rates that the Company can charge its customers for
international services may decrease in the future due to the entry of new
carriers with substantial resources, aggressiveness on the part of new or
existing carriers, the widespread resale of international private lines to
provide switched voice services, the provision of international services via
non-traditional means including the Internet, the consummation of mergers,
joint ventures and alliances among large international carriers that facilitate
targeted pricing and cost reductions, and the rapid growth of international
circuit capacity due to the deployment of new undersea fiber optic cables and
new high capacity satellite systems in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Ocean
Regions.
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RISKS OF OVERSEAS BUSINESS OPERATIONS. The Company derives substantial
revenues from providing services to customers in overseas locations,
particularly the United Kingdom and Germany. Such operations are subject to
certain risks such as changes in the legal and regulatory policies of the
foreign jurisdiction, local political and economic developments, currency
fluctuations, exchange controls, royalty and tax increases, retroactive tax
claims, expropriation, and import and export regulations and other laws and
policies of the United States affecting foreign trade, investment and taxation.
In addition, in the event of any dispute arising from foreign operations, the
Company may be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts and may
not be successful in subjecting foreign persons or entities to the jurisdiction
of the courts in the United States. WorldCom may also be hindered or prevented
from enforcing its rights with respect to foreign governments because of the
doctrine of sovereign immunity. There can be no assurance that the laws,
regulations or administrative practices of foreign countries relating to
WorldCom's ability to do business in that country will not change. Any such
change could have a material adverse effect on WorldCom's financial condition
and results of operations.
RAPID TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE; DEPENDENCE UPON PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT. The
telecommunications industry is subject to rapid and significant changes in
technology. While WorldCom does not believe that, for the foreseeable future,
these changes will either materially or adversely affect the continued use of
fiber optic cable or materially hinder its ability to acquire necessary
technologies, the effect of technological changes, including changes relating
to emerging wireline and wireless transmission and switching technologies, on
the businesses of WorldCom cannot be predicted.
The market for data communications products and services of UUNET, CNS and ANS,
Internet access and related products, is characterized by rapidly changing
technology, evolving industry standards, emerging competition and frequent new
product and service introductions. There can be no assurance that the Company
will successfully identify new product and service opportunities and develop
and bring new products and services to market in a timely manner. The Company
is also at risk from fundamental changes in the way data communications,
including Internet access, services are marketed and delivered. The Company's
Internet service strategy assumes that the Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol ("TCP/IP"), utilizing fiber optic or copper-based
telecommunications infrastructures, will continue to be the primary protocol
and transport infrastructure for Internet-related services. Emerging transport
alternatives include wireless cable modems and satellite delivery of Internet
information; alternative open protocol and proprietary protocol standards have
been or are being developed. The Company's pursuit of necessary technological
advances may require substantial time and expense, and there can be no
assurance that the Company will succeed in adapting its data communications
services business to alternate access devices, conduits and protocols.
REGULATION RISKS. See "Regulation" above for information regarding certain
regulatory risks.
COMPETITION RISKS. See "Competition" above for information regarding certain
competition risks.
ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS. The Second Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation of WorldCom contain provisions (a) requiring a 70% vote for
approval of certain business combinations with certain 10% shareholders unless
approved by a majority of the continuing members of the Company's Board of
Directors or unless certain minimum price, procedural and other requirements
are met, (b) restricting aggregate beneficial ownership of the capital stock of
WorldCom by foreign shareholders to 20% of the total outstanding capital stock,
and subjecting excess shares to redemption, and (c) authorizing the WorldCom
Board of Directors to issue preferred stock in one or more classes without any
action on the part of shareholders. In addition, WorldCom has entered into a
Rights Agreement between WorldCom and The Bank of New York, as Rights Agent,
dated as of August 25, 1996, as amended (the "WorldCom Rights Agreement"),
which will cause substantial dilution to a person or group that attempts to
acquire WorldCom on terms not approved by the WorldCom Board of Directors.
Further, WorldCom's Bylaws (a) contain requirements regarding advance notice of
nomination of directors by shareholders and (b) restrict the calling of special
meetings by shareholders to those owning shares representing not less than 40%
of the votes to be cast. These provisions, including the WorldCom Rights
Agreement, may have an "anti- takeover" effect.
THE EFFECT OF STOCK PRICE FLUCTUATIONS. The relative stock price of WorldCom
Common Stock in the future may vary significantly from the price as of the date
hereof. These variances may be due to changes in the businesses, operations,
results and prospects of WorldCom, market assessments of the likelihood that
the MCI/WorldCom Merger will be consummated and the timing thereof, the effect
of any conditions or restrictions imposed on or proposed with respect to any of
the combined companies by regulatory agencies in connection with or following
consummation of the MCI/WorldCom Merger, general market and economic
conditions, and other factors. In addition, the stock market generally has
experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. These market
fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on the market price or
liquidity of WorldCom Common Stock.
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EMPLOYEES
As of March 6, 1998, the Company employed approximately 20,300 full-time
persons, including CNS, ANS and BFP. Substantially all of the Company's
employees are not represented by any labor union.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The tangible assets of the Company include a substantial investment in
telecommunications equipment. The aggregate book value of the Company's
transmission equipment and communications equipment was $3.57 billion and $2.40
billion, respectively, at December 31, 1997. At least $3.3 billion is
currently anticipated for transmission and communications equipment,
construction and other capital expenditures in 1998 without regard to possible
future acquisitions, if any.
The Company's rights-of-way for its fiber optic cable and microwave
transmission network are typically held under leases, easements, municipal
franchises, licenses or governmental permits. All other major equipment and
physical facilities are owned in fee and are operated, constructed and
maintained pursuant to rights-of-way, easements, permits, licenses or consents
on or across properties owned by others.
The Company has sold to independent entities and leased back its Pacific
Northwest microwave system and its Kansas City to Los Angeles fiber optic
system over primary lease terms ranging from 15 to 20 years. The leases have
renewal options permitting the Company to extend the leases for terms expiring
during the years 2012 to 2019 and purchase options based upon the fair market
value at the time of purchase.
The Company leases space for sales office and/or administrative facilities,
collector node, collocation sites, general storage space, and equipment rooms
for switches and other peripheral equipment. Such leased properties do not
lend themselves to description by character or location. The Company's fiber
optic networks include aerial and underground cable and conduit which are
located on public streets and highways or on privately owned land. The Company
has permission to use these lands pursuant to governmental consent or lease,
permit, easement or other agreement.
The Company attempts to structure its leases of space for its network switching
centers and rights-of-way for its fiber optic networks with initial terms and
renewal options so that the risk of relocation is minimized. The Company
anticipates that prior to termination of any of the leases, it will be able to
renew such leases or make other suitable arrangements.
WorldCom believes that all of its facilities and equipment are in good
condition and are suitable for their intended purposes.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is involved in other legal and regulatory proceedings generally
incidental to its business. In some instances, rulings by regulatory
authorities in some states may result in increased operating costs to the
Company. While the results of these various legal and regulatory matters
contain an element of uncertainty, the Company believes that the probable
outcome of these matters should not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's consolidated results of operations or financial position.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER
MATTERS
The shares of WorldCom Common Stock are quoted on The Nasdaq National Market
under the symbol "WCOM." The following table sets forth the high and low
intra-day sales prices per share of WorldCom Common Stock as reported on The
Nasdaq National Market based on published financial sources, for the periods
indicated.
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HIGH LOW
------ ------
1996
- ----
First Quarter $23.31 $16.25
Second Quarter 27.72 21.31
Third Quarter 28.88 18.38
Fourth Quarter 26.13 21.00
1997
- ----
First Quarter $27.88 $21.75
Second Quarter 32.97 21.25
Third Quarter 37.75 29.88
Fourth Quarter 39.88 28.50
As of March 6, 1998, there were 1,026,645,863 shares of WorldCom Common Stock
issued and outstanding held by 15,461 shareholders of record.
The Company has never paid cash dividends on its Common Stock. The policy of
the Company's Board of Directors has been to retain earnings to provide funds
for the operation and expansion of its business.
PREFERRED STOCK
In connection with the MFS Merger, the Company issued 9,499,200 depositary
shares (the "Depositary Shares"), each representing 1/100th interest in a share
of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock. There is no established public trading
market for the WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock. The Depositary Shares are
traded on The Nasdaq National Market under the trading symbol "WCOMP." As of
March 6, 1998, there were 9,499,200 Depositary Shares issued and outstanding
held by nine shareholders of record.
Each Depositary Share is mandatorily convertible into 4.2 shares of WorldCom
Common Stock on May 31, 1999 (the "Mandatory Conversion Date"). The Depositary
Shares are also convertible at the option of the holder at any time into
3.44274 shares of WorldCom Common Stock for each Depositary Share, plus payment
of unpaid dividends.
The WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock (and the related Depositary Shares) are
not redeemable by WorldCom prior to May 31, 1998 (the "Initial Redemption
Date"). On or after the Initial Redemption Date and prior to the Mandatory
Conversion Date, WorldCom may redeem the WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock (and
thereby the Depositary Shares), in whole or in part. Upon any such redemption,
the holder of record of shares of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock will
receive shares of WorldCom Common Stock equal to the call price of the WorldCom
Series A Preferred Stock in effect on the date of redemption (the "Call Price")
divided by the Current Market Price (as defined in the WorldCom Articles of
Incorporation) of the WorldCom Common Stock. The Call Price of each WorldCom
Series A Preferred Share is (i) $3,417.00 ($34.170 per Depositary Share) on and
after the Initial Redemption Date through August 30, 1998, $3,400.25 ($34.003
per Depositary Share) on and after August 31, 1998 through November 29, 1998,
$3,383.50 ($33.835 per Depositary Share) on and after November 30, 1998 through
February 27, 1999, $3,366.75 ($33.668 per Depositary Share) on and after
February 28, 1999 through April 29, 1999, and $3,350.00 ($33.500 per Depositary
Share) on and after April 30, 1999 until the Mandatory Conversion Date, plus
(ii) all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the date fixed for redemption.
The Depositary Shares are entitled to receive dividends, when, as and if
declared by the Board of Directors, accruing at the rate of $2.68 per share per
annum, payable quarterly in arrears on each February 28, May 31, August 31 and
November 30. Dividends are payable in cash or in shares of WorldCom Common
Stock, at the election of the Company. The Company paid dividends during 1997
in cash, and expects to continue to pay cash dividends on the WorldCom Series A
Preferred Stock.
The Depositary Shares are entitled to vote on the basis of 0.10 of a vote for
each Depositary Share held (equivalent to 10 votes for each share of WorldCom
Series A Preferred Stock). The Series A Preferred Stock has a liquidation
preference equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (a) $3,350 per share and (b)
all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the date of liquidation and (ii)
the value of the shares of WorldCom Common Stock into which such Series A
Preferred Stock are convertible on the date of liquidation.
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The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into shares of WorldCom
Common Stock at any time at a conversion rate of 0.0973912 shares of WorldCom
Common Stock for each share of WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock (an effective
initial conversion price of $10.268 per share of WorldCom Common Stock).
Dividends on the WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock accrue at the rate per share
of $0.0775 per annum and are payable in cash. Dividends will be paid only
when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors. The Company anticipates
that dividends on the WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock will not be declared
but will continue to accrue. Upon conversion, accrued but unpaid dividends are
payable in cash or shares of WorldCom Common Stock at the Company's election.
The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is also redeemable at the option of the
Company at any time after September 30, 2001 at a redemption price of $1.00 per
share, plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The redemption price will be payable
in cash or shares of the WorldCom Common Stock at the Company's election.
The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to one vote per share with
respect to all matters. The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock has a
liquidation preference of $1.00 per share plus all accrued and unpaid dividends
thereon to the date of liquidation. As of March 6, 1998, there were 12,341,799
shares of WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock outstanding held by 946
shareholders of record. There is no established market for the WorldCom Series
B Preferred Stock.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following is a summary of selected financial data of the Company as of and
for the five years ended December 31, 1997. The historical financial data as
of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995 have been derived from the historical financial statements of the
Company, which financial statements have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP,
independent public accountants, as indicated in their report included elsewhere
herein. This data should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto appearing
elsewhere in this document.
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
(In thousands, except ratios and per share data)
Operating Results:
Revenues $ 7,351,354 $ 4,485,130 $ 3,696,345 $ 2,245,663 $ 1,474,257
Operating income (loss) 1,098,606 (1,844,094) 675,144 66,528 238,833
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item 383,652 (2,188,944) 266,271 (124,013) 124,321
Extraordinary item -- (24,434) -- -- (7,949)
Net income (loss) 383,652 (2,213,378) 266,271 (124,013) 116,372
Preferred dividend
requirement 26,433 860 33,191 27,766 11,683
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Income (loss)
before extraordinary item --
Basic 0.40 (5.50) 0.67 (0.48) 0.42
Diluted 0.40 (5.50) 0.64 (0.48) 0.41
Net income (loss)--
Basic 0.40 (5.56) 0.67 (0.48) 0.39
Diluted 0.40 (5.56) 0.64 (0.48) 0.38
Weighted average shares --
Basic 898,889 397,890 346,666 315,610 265,972
Diluted 959,816 397,890 402,577 315,610 275,854
Financial position:
Total assets $ 22,389,553 $ 19,963,197 $ 6,656,629 $ 3,441,474 $ 3,236,718
Long-term debt 6,527,207 4,803,581 3,391,598 794,001 730,023
Shareholders' investment 13,509,865 12,959,976 2,187,681 1,827,410 1,911,800
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YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
(In thousands, except ratios and per share data)
Ratio of earnings to combined
fixed charges and preferred
stock dividends 2.49:1 N/A 2.31:1 0.10:1 4.14:1
Deficiency of earnings to combined
fixed charges and preferred
stock dividends $ -- $ (2,067,851) $ -- $ (80,363) $ --
NOTES TO SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA:
(1) Results for 1996 include a $2.14 billion charge for in-process
research and development related to the MFS Merger. The charge is
based upon a valuation analysis of the technologies of MFS' worldwide
information system, the Internet network expansion system of UUNET,
and certain other identified research and development projects
purchased in the MFS Merger. The expense includes $1.6 billion
associated with UUNET and $0.54 billion related to MFS.
Additionally, 1996 results include other after-tax charges of $121.0
million for employee severance, employee compensation charges,
alignment charges, and costs to exit unfavorable telecommunications
contracts and $343.5 million after-tax write-down of operating assets
within the Company's non-core businesses. On a pre-tax basis, these
charges totaled $600.1 million.
(2) In 1995, Metromedia converted its Series 1 Preferred Stock into
WorldCom Common Stock, exercised warrants to acquire WorldCom Common
Stock and immediately sold its position of 61.7 million shares of
WorldCom Common Stock in a public offering. In connection with the
preferred stock conversion, WorldCom made a non-recurring payment of
$15.0 million to Metromedia, representing a discount to the minimum
nominal dividends that would have been payable on the Series 1
Preferred Stock prior to the September 15, 1996 optional call date of
approximately $26.6 million (which amount included an annual dividend
requirement of $24.5 million plus accrued dividends to such call
date).
(3) As a result of the IDB Merger, the Company initiated plans to
reorganize and restructure its management and operational organization
and facilities to eliminate duplicate personnel, physical facilities
and service capacity, to abandon certain products and marketing
activities, and to take further advantage of the synergies available
to the combined entities. Also, during the fourth quarter of 1993,
plans were approved to reduce IDB's cost structure and to improve
productivity. Accordingly, in 1994 and 1993, the Company charged to
operations the estimated costs of such reorganization and
restructuring activities, including employee severance, physical
facility abandonment and duplicate service capacity. These costs
totaled $43.7 million in 1994 and $5.9 million in 1993.
Also, during 1994, the Company incurred direct merger costs of $15.0
million, related to the IDB Merger. These costs include professional
fees, proxy solicitation costs, travel and related expenses and
certain other direct costs attributable to the IDB Merger.
(4) In connection with certain debt refinancing, the Company recognized in
1996 and 1993 extraordinary items of approximately $4.2 million and
$7.9 million, respectively, net of taxes, consisting of unamortized
debt discount, unamortized issuance cost and prepayment fees.
Additionally, in 1996 the Company recorded an extraordinary item of
$20.2 million, net of taxes, related to a write-off of deferred
international costs. See Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations."
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations may be deemed to include forward-looking statements within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section
21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve risk and
uncertainty, including financial, regulatory environment and trend projections.
Although the Company believes that its expectations are based on reasonable
assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved.
The important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from
those in the forward looking statements herein (the "Cautionary Statements")
include, without limitation, the Company's degree of financial leverage, risks
associated with debt service requirements and interest rate fluctuations, risks
associated with acquisitions and the integration thereof, risks of
international business, dependence on availability of transmission facilities,
regulation risks including the impact of the Telecom Act, contingent
liabilities, and the impact of competitive services and pricing, as well as
other risks referenced from time to time in the Company's filings with the SEC,
including the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997. All
subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the
Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their
entirety by the Cautionary Statements. The Company does not undertake any
obligation to release publicly any revisions to such forward-looking statements
to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the
occurrence of unanticipated events.
The following discussion and analysis relates to the financial condition and
results of operations of the Company for the three years ended December 31,
1997. This information should be read in conjunction with the "Selected
Financial Data" and the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements appearing
elsewhere in this document.
GENERAL
The Company is one of the largest long distance telecommunications companies in
the United States, serving local, long distance and Internet customers
domestically and internationally. The Company's operations have grown
significantly in each year of its operations as a result of internal growth,
the selective acquisition of smaller long distance companies with limited
geographic service areas and market shares, the consolidation of certain third
tier long distance carriers with larger market shares, and international
expansion.
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
CompuServe. Prior to the CompuServe Merger, CompuServe operated primarily
through two divisions: Interactive Services and Network Services. Interactive
Services offered worldwide online and Internet access services for consumers,
while Network Services provided worldwide network access, management and
applications, and Internet service to businesses. The CompuServe Merger is
being accounted for as a purchase; accordingly, operating results for
CompuServe will be included from the date of acquisition.
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom also acquired ANS from AOL, and has entered into
five year contracts with AOL under which WorldCom and its subsidiaries will
provide network services to AOL (collectively, the "AOL Transaction"). As part
of the AOL Transaction, AOL acquired CompuServe's Interactive Services Division
and received a $175 million cash payment from WorldCom. WorldCom retained the
CompuServe Network Services ("CNS") division. ANS provides Internet access to
AOL and AOL's subscribers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom,
Sweden and Japan, and also designs, develops and operates high performance
wide-area networks for business, research, education and governmental
organizations.
In connection with the CompuServe Merger and the AOL Transaction, a valuation
analysis was performed of CNS and ANS technologies including the companies'
virtual private data networks, application hosting products, security systems,
next generation network architectures, and certain other identified research
and development projects purchased in the CompuServe Merger and AOL
Transaction. The result of the valuation is the assignment of $429 million of
intangible assets to in-process research and development which will be expensed
in the first quarter of 1998.
On January 29, 1998, WorldCom through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
BFP. BFP is a leading facilities-based provider of competitive local
telecommunications services, commonly referred to as a competitive local
exchange carrier ("CLEC"), in selected cities within the United States. BFP
acquires and constructs its own state-of-the-art fiber optic networks and
facilities and leases network capacity from others to provide IXCs, ISPs,
wireless carriers and business, government and institutional end users with an
alternative to the ILECs for a broad array of high quality voice, data, video
transport and other telecommunications services.
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On November 9, 1997, WorldCom entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the
"MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement") with MCI Communications Corporation ("MCI")
and a wholly owned acquisition subsidiary of WorldCom ("MCI Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "MCI/WorldCom Merger") of MCI with and into MCI
Merger Sub, with MCI Merger Sub surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of
WorldCom. Subject to the terms and conditions of the MCI/WorldCom Merger
Agreement, each share of MCI Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the
effective time of the MCI/WorldCom Merger (the "MCI/WorldCom Effective Time")
will be converted into the right to receive that number of shares of WorldCom
Common Stock equal to the MCI Exchange Ratio (as defined below), and each share
of MCI Class A common stock, par value $.10 per share ("MCI Class A Common
Stock" and, together with the MCI Common Stock, the "MCI Capital Stock"),
outstanding immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time will be
converted into the right to receive $51.00 in cash, without interest thereon.
The "MCI Exchange Ratio" means the quotient (rounded to the nearest 1/10,000)
determined by dividing $51.00 by the average of the high and low sales prices
of WorldCom Common Stock (the "MCI/WorldCom Average Price") as reported on The
Nasdaq National Market on each of the 20 consecutive trading days ending with
the third trading day immediately preceding the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time;
provided, however, that the MCI Exchange Ratio will not be less than 1.2439 or
greater than 1.7586. Cash will be paid in lieu of the issuance of any
fractional share of WorldCom Common Stock in the MCI/WorldCom Merger.
Based on the number of shares of MCI Common Stock outstanding as of January 20,
1998 and assumed MCI Exchange Ratios of 1.2439 and 1.7586, approximately
710,554,160 shares and 1,004,566,722 shares, respectively, of WorldCom Common
Stock would be issued in the MCI/WorldCom Merger. In addition, as of December
31, 1997, outstanding options to purchase shares of MCI Common Stock would be
converted in the MCI/WorldCom Merger to options to acquire an aggregate of
approximately 86,491,688 shares and 122,280,154 shares, respectively, of
WorldCom Common Stock, and the exercise price would be adjusted to reflect the
MCI Exchange Ratio, so that, on exercise, the holders would receive, in the
aggregate, the same number of shares of WorldCom Common Stock as they would
have received had they exercised prior to the MCI/WorldCom Merger, at the same
exercise price.
The MCI/WorldCom Merger was approved by the MCI stockholders and the WorldCom
shareholders at separate meetings held on March 11, 1998. The MCI/WorldCom
Merger is also subject to approvals from the FCC, the DOJ and various state
government bodies. In addition, the MCI/WorldCom Merger is subject to approval
by the European Commission. WorldCom anticipates that the MCI/WorldCom Merger
will close in mid-year 1998.
Termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under
certain conditions will require MCI to pay WorldCom $750 million as a
termination fee and to reimburse WorldCom the $450 million alternative
transaction fee and certain related expenses paid by WorldCom to BT. Further,
termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under
certain conditions, will require WorldCom to pay MCI $1.635 billion as a
termination fee.
Pursuant to an agreement (the "BT Agreement") among MCI, WorldCom and BT, the
prior merger agreement between BT and MCI (the "BT/MCI Merger Agreement") was
terminated, and WorldCom agreed to pay BT an alternative transaction fee of
$450 million and expenses of $15 million payable to BT in accordance with the
BT/MCI Merger Agreement. These fees were paid on November 12, 1997. WorldCom
also agreed to pay to BT an additional payment of $250 million in the event
that WorldCom is required to make the $1.635 billion payment to MCI in
accordance with the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement. In addition, pursuant to
the BT Agreement, BT voted (or caused to be voted) its shares of MCI Class A
Common Stock in favor of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement and the approval of
the other transactions contemplated by the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement.
WorldCom is in the process of developing its plan to integrate the operations
of MCI which may include certain exit costs. As a result of this plan, a
charge, which may be material but which cannot now be quantified, is expected
to be recognized in the period in which such a restructuring occurs. WorldCom
has also undertaken a study to determine the allocation of the total purchase
price to the various assets to be acquired, including in-process research and
development, and the liabilities assumed. To the extent that a portion of the
purchase price is allocated to in-process research and development projects of
MCI, a charge, which may be material, would be recognized in the period in
which the MCI/WorldCom Merger occurs.
On December 31, 1996, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
MFS. Through this purchase, the Company acquired local network access
facilities via digital fiber optic cable networks installed in and around major
United States cities, and in several major European cities. The Company also
acquired a network platform, which consists of Company-owned transmission and
switching facilities, and network capacity leased from other carriers primarily
in the United States and Western Europe.
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26
On August 12, 1996, MFS completed the UUNET Acquisition. UUNET is a leading
worldwide provider of a comprehensive range of Internet access options,
applications, and consulting services to businesses, professionals and online
services providers.
On January 5, 1995, the Company completed the WilTel Acquisition for
approximately $2.5 billion in cash. Through this purchase, the Company
acquired a nationwide common carrier network of approximately 11,000 miles of
fiber optic cable and digital microwave facilities.
The Company's strategy is to become a fully integrated communications company
that would be well positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities in
global telecommunications. Consistent with this strategy, the Company believes
that transactions such as the CompuServe Merger, the AOL Transaction, the BFP
Merger and, if consummated, the MCI/WorldCom Merger enhance the combined
entity's opportunities for future growth, create a stronger competitor in the
changing telecommunications industry, allow provision of end-to-end bundled
service over global networks, and provide the opportunity for significant cost
savings and operating efficiencies for the combined organization.
The Company's profitability is dependent upon, among other things, its ability
to achieve line costs that are less than its revenues. The principal
components of line costs are access charges and transport charges and the most
significant portion of the Company's line costs is access charges, which are
highly regulated. The FCC revised its rules regarding access charges in a
manner that will, over time, revamp the access rate element structure and, over
the near term, reduce the overall access revenues collected by the incumbent
local exchange carriers ("ILECs"). The FCC's rate element restructuring is
intended to align costs with the manner in which they are incurred by the
ILECs. As a result, the usage based system has been replaced with a system
composed of a combination of flat rate charges and usage based charges. The
FCC has also implemented subsidy systems for local telephone services and
services to schools, libraries, and hospitals. The subsidy systems will result
in additional charges being placed on all telecommunications providers, which
charges may be directly recovered from the end users. In addition, various
state regulatory agencies are considering adoption of subsidy systems that
could cause rate adjustments to the access services obtained by the Company and
to retail rates. The Company cannot predict what effect continued regulation
and increased competition between LECs and other IXCs will have on future
access charges or the Company's business. However, the Company believes that
it will be able to continue to reduce transport costs through effective
utilization of its network, favorable contracts with carriers and network
efficiencies made possible as a result of expansion of the Company's customer
base by acquisitions and internal growth.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the Company's
statement of operations as a percentage of its operating revenues.
For the Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ ------
Revenues.................................................................. 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Line costs ............................................................... 51.6 54.8 54.9
Selling, general and administrative ...................................... 21.0 18.5 18.3
Depreciation and amortization ............................................ 12.5 6.7 8.5
Direct merger costs, restructuring and other charges ..................... -- 13.4 --
Charge for in-process research and development ........................... -- 47.7 --
------ ------ ------
Operating income (loss): ................................................. 14.9 (41.1) 18.3
Other income (expense):
Interest expense ..................................................... (4.3) (4.9) (6.7)
Miscellaneous ........................................................ 0.3 0.1 0.3
------ ------ ------
Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item ................. 10.9 (45.9) 11.9
Provision for income taxes ............................................... 5.6 2.9 4.6
------ ------ ------
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item .............................. 5.3 (48.8) 7.3
Extraordinary item ....................................................... -- 0.6 --
------ ------ ------
Net income (loss) ........................................................ 5.3 (49.4) 7.3
Preferred dividend requirement ........................................... 0.4 -- 1.0
------ ------ ------
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders ...................... 4.9% (49.4)% 6.3%
====== ====== ======
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YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 VS.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
Revenues for 1997 increased 64% to $7.35 billion on 37.60 billion revenue
minutes as compared to $4.49 billion on 24.51 billion revenue minutes for 1996.
The increase in total revenues and minutes is primarily attributable to the MFS
Merger and internal growth of the Company, as outlined in the next paragraph.
On a pro forma basis, as though the MFS Merger and the UUNET Acquisition
occurred at the beginning of 1996, revenues and traffic for 1997 increased 30%
and 35%, respectively, compared with pro forma revenues of $5.64 billion on
27.80 billion revenue minutes for 1996. The pro forma increase reflects the
internal growth of the Company in all core communications services. In spite
of the continuing impact of competitive pricing and access charge pass
throughs, the Company posted strong gains across all product lines due to
increased usage and greater demand for high speed data and Internet related
growth.
The following table highlights the source of WorldCom's internal growth by
major line of business. The pro forma and actual revenue increases for 1997
and 1996 reflect the following increases by category (dollars in millions):
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------
Actual Pro Forma
REVENUES 1997 1996 Change
-------- -------- --------
Domestic switched $3,992.1 $3,323.3 20%
Domestic private line 1,575.1 1,167.0 35%
International 818.5 469.2 74%
Internet 566.0 253.2 124%
-------- --------
Core Revenues 6,951.7 5,212.7 33%
-------- --------
Other 399.7 422.5 (5%)
-------- --------
Total Revenues $7,351.4 $5,635.2 31%
-------- --------
The following discusses the results of operations for the year ended December
31, 1997 as compared to pro forma results for the comparable prior year period.
Changes in actual results of operations are shown in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations and the foregoing tables and, as noted above,
primarily reflect the MFS Merger and the internal growth of the Company.
Domestic switched services revenue increased 20% for the year. This increase
was primarily due to strong volume gains in both the retail and wholesale
segments. WorldCom's narrowing gap between revenue and volume growth continues
to be driven by strong wholesale revenues, international settlement reduction
pass throughs, access charge pass throughs, and product mix.
Domestic switched revenues includes both long distance and increasingly local
switched revenues. While the Company continues to show significant percentage
gains in switched local, it is still a relatively small component of total
Company revenues. However, the Company expects that due to its local
initiatives, the BFP Merger and, if consummated, the MCI/WorldCom Merger,
revenue attributable to local switched services will grow rapidly in 1998 and
beyond.
Domestic private line increased by 35% for the year. The strong revenue growth
for private line and frame relay continues to be driven by tremendous
commercial end user demand for high speed data and by Internet related growth.
Domestic private line includes both long distance and local bandwidth sales.
As of December 31, 1997, and including BFP, the Company has 10.7 million voice
grade equivalents, and 27,785 connected buildings. Route miles of connected
fiber are in excess of 500,000. The BFP Merger and the combination of MCI into
WorldCom's operations are expected to enhance WorldCom's local presence.
International revenues -- those revenues originating outside of the U.S. --
were $819 million, for the year, up 74% compared with the corresponding pro
forma period for 1996. This strong performance is due to continuing strong
traffic growth in the United Kingdom and a growing presence in Continental
Europe for both switched services and, increasingly, high speed data services.
Significant effort was taken in 1997 to prepare for the opening of national
markets in European countries which should provide additional growth and
improved margins in 1998.
Internet revenues for the year more than doubled to $566 million. The
provisioning constraints experienced in mid-1997 were significantly overcome in
the latter part of the third quarter, and the strong demand for both dedicated
and dial- up access contributed to the resumption of strong sequential gains in
the fourth quarter.
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28
Other revenues for 1997 were $399.7 million. Other revenues include network
construction and system sales which each represent non-recurring contract
revenue streams that fluctuate from quarter to quarter. Operator services and
broadcast operations were sold in the third quarter 1997. The operator
services and broadcast operations provided revenues of $109.9 million in 1997
and $175.0 million in 1996.
Line costs as a percentage of revenues for 1997 was 51.6% as compared to 54.8%
reported for the same period of the prior year and 55.4% pro forma for 1996.
These decreases are attributable to changes in the product mix and synergies
and economies of scale resulting from network efficiencies achieved from the
assimilation of MFS into the Company's operations. Additionally, access charge
reductions beginning in July 1997 reduced total line cost expense by
approximately $60 million in 1997. While access charge reductions were
primarily passed through to the customer, line costs as a percentage of
revenues was positively affected by approximately one percentage point.
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 1997 increased to $1.54
billion or 21.0% of revenues as compared to $828.7 million or 18.5% of revenues
as reported for 1996. The increase in selling, general and administrative
expenses as a percentage of revenues on a reported basis results from the
Company's expanding operations, primarily through the MFS Merger. The decrease
in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues for
1997, as compared to 24.2% of revenues, respectively, for the same pro forma
period of 1996, results from the assimilation of MFS into the Company's
strategy of cost control.
Depreciation and amortization expense for 1997 increased to $920.7 million or
12.5% of revenues from $303.3 million or 6.7% of revenues for 1996. This
increase reflects increased amortization associated with the MFS Merger and
additional depreciation related to capital expenditures.
The effective income tax rate for 1997 was 52% of income before taxes. The
1997 rate of 52% is greater than the expected statutory rate of 35% primarily
due to the fact that amortization of the goodwill related to the MFS Merger is
not deductible for tax purposes. Excluding the nondeductible amortization of
goodwill, the Company's effective income tax rate would have been 39.9%.
For the year ended December 31, 1997, interest expense was $319.7 million or
4.3% of revenues, as compared to $221.8 million or 4.9% of revenues for the
year ended December 31, 1996. The increase in interest expense is attributable
to higher debt levels as the result of additional debt acquired with the MFS
Merger, higher capital expenditures and the 1997 fixed rate debt financings,
offset by lower interest rates in effect on the Company's variable rate
long-term debt. For the twelve months ended December 31, 1997 and 1996,
weighted average annual interest rates on the Company's total long-term debt
was 7.3% and 6.2%, respectively, while weighted average annual levels of
borrowing were $5.25 billion, and $3.49 billion, respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 1997, net income was $357.2 million, or $0.40
per share compared with $414.9 million, or $1.01 per share, before
non-recurring charges for the year ended December 31, 1996. The 1997 results
include approximately $425 million of pre-tax tax amortization related to the
purchase accounting treatment of various WorldCom acquisitions.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 VS.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995:
Revenues for 1996 increased 21% to $4.49 billion on 24.51 billion revenue
minutes as compared to $3.70 billion on 19.57 billion revenue minutes for 1995.
The increase in total revenues and minutes is primarily attributable to
internal growth of the Company.
Internally, private line and frame relay revenues increased 28% over the prior
year while switched commercial and wholesale revenues increased 23% to $3.31
billion on a 26% increase in traffic.
Line costs as a percentage of revenues decreased to 54.8% of revenues as
compared to 54.9% for 1995. These changes are attributable to changes in the
product mix, and synergies and economies of scale resulting from network
efficiencies achieved from the assimilation of recent acquisitions into the
Company's operations.
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 1996 increased to $828.7
million or 18.5% of revenues as compared to $677.9 million or 18.3% of revenues
for 1995. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses results
from the Company's expanding operations, primarily through stronger internal
growth, offset by changes in the product mix.
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29
Depreciation and amortization expense for 1996 decreased to $303.3 million or
6.7% of revenues from $312.7 million or 8.5% of revenues for 1995. This
decrease reflects the reduction in depreciation and amortization associated
with the second quarter 1996 write-down in the carrying value of certain assets
offset by additional depreciation related to capital expenditures. The
reduction in percentage is due to a relatively stable amount of amortization on
a higher revenue base.
In the second quarter of 1996, the Company incurred non-cash charges related to
a write-down in the carrying value of certain assets, including goodwill and
equipment. Because of events resulting from the passage of the Telecom Act,
and changes in circumstances impacting certain non-core operations, management
estimates of the Company's fair value of operating assets within its core and
non-core businesses resulted in a non-cash charge of $343.5 million after tax.
On a pre-tax basis, the write-down was $402.0 million and included $139.1
million for network facilities and $262.9 million for non-core businesses,
primarily operator services goodwill.
In the fourth quarter of 1996, the Company recorded other after-tax charges of
$121.0 million for employee severance, employee compensation charges, alignment
charges and costs to exit unfavorable telecommunications contracts. On a pre-
tax basis, this charge was $198.1 million and is reflected in operating loss
for the 1996 period.
The results for 1996 include a $2.14 billion, fourth quarter charge for
in-process research and development related to the MFS Merger. The charge is
based upon a valuation analysis of the technologies of MFS' worldwide
information system, the Internet network expansion system of UUNET, and certain
other identified research and development projects purchased in the merger.
The efforts to complete these projects will consist of internally-staffed
engineering costs and further development and construction of the network. As
of December 31, 1996, these costs were estimated to be approximately $1.0
billion and will be incurred over the next five years.
Interest expense in 1996 was $221.8 million or 4.9% of revenues, as compared to
$249.2 million or 6.7% of revenues in 1995. The decrease in interest expense
is attributable to lower interest rates in effect on the Company's long-term
debt.
The Company recorded a tax provision of $129.5 million on a pretax loss of $2.1
billion in 1996. Although the Company generated a consolidated pre-tax loss in
1996, permanent items aggregating approximately $2.4 billion resulted in the
recognition of taxable income. Included in the permanent items was the $2.14
billion charge for in-process research and development related to the MFS
Merger.
In the second quarter of 1996, the Company recorded extraordinary items
totaling $24.4 million, net of income tax benefit of $15.6 million. The items
included $4.2 million in connection with the Company's debt refinancing, and
$20.2 million related to a write-off of deferred international costs.
Previously, a portion of the outbound call fee due the foreign carrier was
deferred and accounted for as a cost attributable to the revenue associated
with the inbound call. Currently, the outbound call fee due the foreign
carrier is expensed as incurred.
For the year ended December 31, 1996, net income, before non-recurring charges,
increased 67% to $414.9 million compared with $248.1 million for the 1995
period. Diluted earnings per common share, before the non-recurring charges
increased 49% to $1.01 per share versus $0.68 per share for the comparable 1995
period.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of December 31, 1997, the Company's total debt was $6.54 billion, an
increase of $1.71 billion from December 31, 1996 as a result of the $465
million fee paid to BT in connection with the BT/MCI Merger Agreement and
increased capital expenditures primarily related to domestic and international
construction costs of $1.3 billion of the total 1997 capital spending of $2.64
billion.
On July 3, 1997, the Company replaced its $3.75 billion revolving credit
facility (the "Old Credit Facility") with $5.0 billion in new revolving credit
facilities which consist of a $3.75 billion Facility A Revolving Credit
Agreement (the "Facility A Loans") and a $1.25 billion Facility B Revolving
Credit and Term Loan Agreement (the "Facility B Loans," and together with the
Facility A Loans, the "New Credit Facilities"). The Facility A Loans have a
five-year term and may be extended for up to two successive one year terms
thereafter to the extent of the committed amounts from those lenders consenting
thereto, with a requirement that lenders holding at least two-thirds of the
committed amounts consent. The Facility B Loans have a 364 day term, which may
be extended for up to two successive 364 day terms thereafter to the extent of
the committed amounts from those lenders consenting thereto, with a requirement
that lenders holding at least two-thirds of the committed amounts consent.
Alternatively, effective as of the end of such 364 day term, the Company may
elect to convert the Facility B Loans from revolving loans to term loans with a
maturity date corresponding with the maturity date then in effect with respect
to the Facility A Loans. The New Credit
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30
Facilities bear interest payable in varying periods, depending on the interest
period, not to exceed six months, at rates selected by the Company under the
terms of the New Credit Facilities, including a Base Rate or the Eurodollar
Rate, plus applicable margin. The applicable margin for a Eurodollar Rate
borrowing varies from 0.3% to 0.75% based upon the better of certain debt
ratings or a specified financial test. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the
weighted average interest rates under the Company's credit facilities were 6.1%
and 6.3%, respectively. The New Credit Facilities are unsecured but include a
negative pledge of the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries (subject to
certain exceptions). The New Credit Facilities require compliance with certain
financial and operating covenants which limit, among other things, the
incurrence of additional indebtedness by the Company, investments by the
Company, sales of assets and mergers and dissolutions, which covenants are
generally less restrictive than those contained in the Old Credit Facility and
which do not restrict distributions to shareholders, provided the Company is
not in default under the New Credit Facilities. The current commitment fee for
any unborrowed portion of the Facility A Loans and the Facility B Loans are
0.15% and 0.10%, respectively.
On February 27, 1997, in connection with the MFS Merger and pursuant to a
change of control provision, WorldCom offered to repurchase the MFS $924.0
million 8-7/8% Senior Discount Notes due 2006 and the MFS $788.3 million 9-3/8%
Senior Discount Notes due 2004 (collectively the "MFS Notes") at 101% of the
accreted value. Pursuant to the offer, approximately $14.3 million of the MFS
Notes were repurchased.
On April 1, 1997, the Company completed the public offering of $2.0 billion
principal amount of debt securities. The net proceeds of the offering ($1.98
billion) were used to pay down commercial bank debt. The public offering
included $600 million principal amount of 7.55% Senior Notes due 2004 (the
"Notes Due 2004"), $1.1 billion principal amount of 7.75% Senior Notes due 2007
(the "Notes Due 2007") and $300 million principal amount of 7.75% Senior Notes
due 2027 (the "Notes Due 2027" and collectively, with the Notes Due 2004 and the
Notes Due 2007, the "Notes"). The Notes bear interest payable semiannually on
April 1 and October 1 of each year, which payments commenced October 1, 1997,
and limit the incurrence of liens. Each holder of the Notes Due 2027 may
require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of the Notes Due 2027 owned
by such holder on April 1, 2009 at a purchase price equal to 100% of the
principal amount thereof.
The Notes Due 2004 and the Notes Due 2007 are redeemable, as a whole or in
part, at the option of the Company, at any time or from time to time. The
Notes Due 2027 will be redeemable, as a whole or in part, at the option of the
Company, at any time and from time to time beginning April 2, 2009. The
redemption prices for the three bond series equal the greater of (i) 100% of
the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed or (ii) the sum of the present
values of the Remaining Scheduled Payments (as defined therein) discounted at
the Treasury Rate (as defined therein) plus 15 basis points for the Notes Due
2004 or plus 20 basis points for the Notes Due 2007 and the Notes Due 2027,
plus in the case of each of clause (i) and (ii) accrued interest to the date of
redemption.
In July 1997, WorldCom offered to exchange (the "Exchange Offers") (i) $871.60
principal amount of its 9-3/8% Senior Notes due January 15, 2004 for each
$1,000 principal amount at stated maturity, as of the date of their original
issuance, of outstanding 9-3/8% Senior Discount Notes due January 15, 2004 of
MFS, properly tendered, and (ii) $737.91 principal amount of its 8-7/8% Senior
Notes due January 15, 2006 for each $1,000 principal amount at stated maturity,
as of the date of their original issuance, of outstanding 8-7/8% Senior
Discount Notes due January 15, 2006 of MFS, properly tendered. In connection
with the Exchange Offers, the Company also solicited consents to certain
amendments to the respective indentures governing the MFS Notes (the "Consent
Solicitations").
In August of 1997, the Company accepted all MFS Notes validly tendered in its
on-going Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations. The Company received
requisite consents from holders of notes of MFS to allow the Company to accept
tenders prior to the expiration of the Exchange Offers and Consent
Solicitations and thereby effect certain amendments to the respective
indentures governing the MFS Notes. As of August 22, 1997, the Company
exchanged approximately $680.1 million and $666.7 million of its 9-3/8% Senior
Notes due January 15, 2004 and its 8-7/8% Senior Notes due January 15, 2006,
respectively, for MFS Notes validly tendered as of the close of business on
August 19, 1997.
As of December 31, 1997, the Company had available liquidity of $1.94 billion
under its New Credit Facilities and from available cash and marketable
securities.
For 1997, the Company's cash flow from operations was $1.32 billion, increasing
over 65% from $798.1 million in the comparable period for 1996. The increase in
cash flow from operations was primarily attributable to internal growth and
synergies and economies of scale resulting from network efficiencies and
selling, general and administrative cost savings achieved from the assimilation
of MFS into the Company's operations.
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In 1997, the Company's existing receivables purchase agreement generated
additional proceeds of $41.8 million, bringing the total amount outstanding to
$416.8 million. The Company used these proceeds to reduce outstanding debt
under the Company's New Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 1997, the
purchaser owned an undivided interest in a $978.7 million pool of receivables
which includes the $416.8 million sold.
Cash used in investing activities for the twelve months ended December 31, 1997
totaled $3.28 billion. The sale of marketable securities provided $760.3
million of proceeds which were used to fund a portion of capital expenditures
of $2.64 billion and acquisition and related costs of $1.09 billion.
Acquisition and related costs primarily includes costs from the MFS Merger as
well as a $465 million fee paid to BT in accordance with the BT/MCI Merger
Agreement. Primary capital expenditures include purchases of switching,
transmission, communication and other equipment. At least $3.3 billion is
currently anticipated for transmission, communications equipment, construction
and other capital expenditures in 1998 without regard to pending or other
possible future acquisitions.
Included in cash flows from financing activities are payments of $26.4 million
for preferred dividend requirements. The Company has never paid cash dividends
on its Common Stock. The Depositary Shares are entitled to receive dividends,
when, as, and if they are declared by the Board of Directors, accruing at the
rate of $2.68 per share per annum, payable quarterly in arrears on each
February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30. Dividends are payable in cash
or in shares of WorldCom Common Stock, at the election of the Company. The
Company paid the dividends for 1997 in cash and expects to continue to pay
dividends in cash on the Depositary Shares. Dividends on the WorldCom Series B
Preferred Stock accrue at the rate per share of $0.0775 per annum and are
payable in cash. Dividends will be paid only when, as and if declared by the
Board of Directors of the Company. The Company anticipates that dividends on
the WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock will not be declared but will continue to
accrue. Upon conversion, accrued but unpaid dividends are payable in cash or
shares of WorldCom Common Stock at the Company's election.
The Depositary Shares are redeemable by the Company any time after May 31, 1998
and prior to the mandatory conversion date of May 31, 1999 into shares of
WorldCom Common Stock based on a specified call price. The call price of each
WorldCom Series A Preferred Share on redemption ranges from $3,417.00 ($34.17
per Depositary Share) to $3,350.00 ($33.50 per Depositary Share). The Company
may elect to exercise its redemption option prior to the mandatory conversion
date of May 31, 1999. The Depositary Shares are currently convertible into
3.44274 shares of WorldCom Common Stock for each Depositary Share plus payment
of unpaid dividends.
In connection with the BFP Merger, the Company announced on February 27, 1998
that it had commenced an offer (the "Tender Offers") to purchase for cash each
of the following series of debt: the 10-7/8% Senior Discount Notes of BFP due
2006, the 11-7/8% Senior Discount Notes of BFP due 2006 and the 10% Senior
Notes of BFP due 2007 (collectively, the "BFP Notes"). WorldCom offered to pay
each registered holder of the BFP Notes, in the case of the 10-7/8% Senior
Discount Notes, 118.586% of their accreted value as of the date of the
purchase, in the case of the 11-7/8% Senior Discount Notes, 127.104% of their
accreted value as of the date of purchase, and in the case of the 10% Senior
Notes, 117.615% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest to the date of
purchase. The accreted value per $1,000 principal amount at stated maturity as
of the tender purchase date of March 27, 1998, was $733.42 for the 10-7/8%
Senior Discount Notes, and $660.57 for the 11-7/8% Senior Discount Notes. The
accrued interest of the 10% Senior Notes per $1,000 principal amount at stated
maturity to such date was $32.22. Concurrently with the Tender Offers,
WorldCom obtained consents to eliminate certain restrictive covenants and amend
certain other provisions of the respective indentures of the BFP Notes.
On March 27, 1998, the Company accepted all BFP Notes validly tendered. As of
the expiration of the offers at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, March 26, 1998,
WorldCom had received valid tenders and consents from holders of approximately
$424.9 million of principal amount at stated maturity of 10 7/8% Senior Discount
Notes due 2006 of BFP (or approximately 99.96% of total outstanding), from
holders of $400.0 million of principal amount at stated maturity of 11 7/8%
Senior Discount Notes due 2006 of BFP (or 100% of total outstanding), and from
holders of approximately $241.0 million of principal amount at stated maturity
of 10% Senior Notes due 2007 of BFP (or approximately 96.4% of total
outstanding).
The funds required to pay all amounts required under the Tender Offers were
obtained by WorldCom from available working capital and lines of credit. Such
lines of credit included a new $1.25 billion 364-day revolving credit facility
which became effective in February 1998. In connection with the Tender Offers
and related refinancings, WorldCom will record an extraordinary accounting item
of approximately $200 million in the first quarter of 1998.
In connection with the MCI Merger, WorldCom has agreed to pay BT $51.00 in cash
without interest for each of the Class A Shares of MCI Stock it owns, or $6.94
billion in the aggregate. Additionally, WorldCom has paid BT a fee of $465
million to induce BT to terminate the previously signed BT/MCI Merger Agreement
and to enter into the BT Agreement. WorldCom expects to fund this commitment
through a combination of bank and bond financing. The MCI/WorldCom Merger is
expected to close
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by mid-year 1998, and therefore funding of this commitment is not expected to
occur until the second half of 1998. Increases in interest rates on WorldCom's
debt would have an adverse effect upon WorldCom's reported net income and cash
flow. WorldCom believes that the combined operations of WorldCom, CNS, ANS,
BFP and, upon consummation of the MCI/WorldCom Merger, MCI, would generate
sufficient cash flow to service WorldCom's debt and capital requirements;
however, economic downturns, increased interest rates and other adverse
developments, including factors beyond WorldCom's control, could impair its
ability to service its indebtedness. In addition, the cash flow required to
service WorldCom's debt may reduce its ability to fund internal growth,
additional acquisitions and capital improvements.
The Company has historically utilized cash flow from operations to finance
capital expenditures and a mixture of cash flow, debt and stock to finance
acquisitions. The Company expects to experience increased capital intensity
due to network expansion and merger related expenses as noted above and
believes that funding needs in excess of internally generated cash flow and the
New Credit Facilities will be met by accessing the debt markets. The Company
has filed shelf registration statements on Form S-3 with the SEC for the sale,
from time to time, of one or more series of unsecured debt securities having an
aggregate value of $6.0 billion. The Company expects to utilize the shelf
registrations in connection with the MCI/WorldCom Merger and the $6.94 billion
payment to BT during 1998. No assurance can be given that any public financing
will be available on terms acceptable to the Company.
The Company believes that the CompuServe Merger and the AOL Transaction will
generate sufficient cash flow to adequately fund the capital requirements of
these businesses. Additionally, management believes that the BFP Merger will
accelerate WorldCom's local city development plans by one to two years.
Therefore, the BFP Merger is expected to result in a reduction in WorldCom's
previously expected capital spending for local city development. As a result
of the CompuServe Merger, the AOL Transaction, the BFP Merger and, if
consummated, the MCI/WorldCom Merger, the Company believes that the operating
and capital synergies from the integration of these acquisitions into
WorldCom's operations will further enhance the cash flow contribution for the
Company.
Absent significant capital requirements for other acquisitions, the Company
believes that cash flow from operations and available liquidity, including
$1.94 billion under its New Credit Facilities, and funds anticipated to be
received from debt to be issued under the shelf registration statements will be
more than adequate to meet the Company's capital needs for the remainder of
1998.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS AND YEAR 2000 ISSUES
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No.
130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." This statement establishes standards for
reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components (revenues,
expenses, gains and losses) in a full set of general purpose financial
statements. This statement requires that all items that are required to be
recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be
reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as
other financial statements. The statement is effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 1997. WorldCom intends to comply with the
provisions of this standard in 1998.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information." This statement establishes standards for
the way that public business enterprises report information about operating
segments in annual financial statements and requires that those enterprises
report selected information about operating segments in interim financial
reports issued to shareholders. It also establishes standards for related
disclosures about products and services, geographic areas and major customers.
This statement is effective for financial statements for periods beginning
after December 15, 1997. WorldCom intends to comply with the provisions of this
standard in 1998.
The Company is aware of the complexity and the significance of the "Year 2000"
issue. The Company has created a project team comprised of internal resources
to help identify products and systems where the Year 2000 problem may exist,
and to renovate, replace or retire those products or systems. At this time,
the Company believes that the cost of addressing Year 2000 issues is not
material to its future operating results or financial position. The Company
is gathering information concerning the Year 2000 compliance
status of its suppliers. In the event that any of the Company's
significant suppliers do not successfully and timely achieve Year
2000 compliance, the Company's business or operations could be adversely
affected.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in marketable equity
security prices and from changes in interest rates on long-term debt
obligations that impact the fair value of these obligations.
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At December 31, 1997, marketable equity securities of the Company were recorded
at a fair value of $113.2 million. The fair value of marketable equity
securities is based on quoted market prices. The marketable equity securities
held by the Company have exposure to price risk, which is estimated as the
potential loss in fair value due to a hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in
quoted market prices, and would amount to a decrease in the recorded value of
marketable equity securities of approximately $11.3 million.
The table below provides information about the Company's risk exposure
associated with changing interest rates. The Company's policy is to manage
interest rates through use of a combination of fixed and variable rate debt.
Currently, the Company does not use derivative financial instruments to manage
its interest rate risk. The Company has no cash flow exposure due to general
interest rate changes for its fixed long-term debt obligations. All items
described are non-trading.
EXPECTED MATURITY
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair Value
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Thereafter Total 12/31/97
-------- -------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
(In thousands of dollars)
Long-term debt:
Fixed rate $ 10,605 $ 12,386 $ 5,204 $ 4,966 $ 6,251 $ 3,365,150 $ 3,404,562 $ 3,625,686
Average interest rate 8.0% 7.5% 11.7% 10.0% 10.0% 8.3% 8.3%
Variable rate -- -- -- -- $ 3,133,250 -- $ 3,133,250 $ 3,133,250
Average interest rate -- -- -- -- 6.1% -- 6.1%
Although the Company conducts business in foreign countries, the international
operations were not material to the Company's consolidated financial position,
results of operations or cash flows as of December 31, 1997. Additionally,
foreign currency transaction gains and losses were not material to the
Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 1997.
Accordingly, the Company was not subject to material foreign currency exchange
rate risk from the effects that exchange rate movements of foreign currencies
would have on the Company's future costs or on future cash flows it would
receive from its foreign subsidiaries. To date, the Company has not entered
into any significant foreign currency forward exchange contracts or other
derivative financial instruments to hedge the effects of adverse fluctuations
in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company is evaluating the future use
of such financial instruments.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The Company's consolidated financial statements and notes thereto are included
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as follows:
Page
----
Report of independent public accountants F-2
Consolidated financial statements-
Consolidated balance sheets - December 31, 1997 and 1996 F-3
Consolidated statements of operations for the three F-4
years ended December 31, 1997
Consolidated statements of shareholders' investment
for the three years ended December 31, 1997 F-5
Consolidated statements of cash flows for the
three years ended December 31, 1997 F-6
Notes to consolidated financial statements F-7
Financial statement schedule F-26
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
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PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The following states each director and each executive officer's age,
principal occupation, present position with the Company and the year in which
each director first was elected a director (each serving continuously since
first elected except as set forth otherwise). Unless indicated otherwise, each
individual has held his present position for at least five years.
JAMES C. ALLEN, 51, has been a director of the Company since March
1998. Mr. Allen is the former Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and a
former director of BFP, where he served in such capacities from 1993 until
February 1998. Mr. Allen served as President and Chief Operating Officer of
Brooks Telecommunications Corporation, a founder of BFP, from April 1993 until
it was merged with BFP in January 1996. Prior thereto, he was Chief Operating
Officer and Chief Financial Officer of David Lipscomb University. Mr. Allen
was appointed to the WorldCom Board of Directors pursuant to the expectation
expressed by WorldCom during the negotiation and approval of the BFP Merger
Agreement that the WorldCom Board would consider the nomination of an
individual designated by the BFP Board of Directors following the effective
time of the BFP Merger. Mr. Allen serves as a director of Metronet
Communications Corp., and Verio, Inc.
CARL J. AYCOCK, 48, has been a director of the Company since 1983.
Mr. Aycock served as Secretary of the Company from 1987 to 1995 and was the
Secretary and Chief Financial Officer of Master Corporation, a motel management
and ownership company, from 1989 until 1992. Subsequent to 1992, Mr. Aycock
has been self employed as a financial administrator.
MAX E. BOBBITT, 53, has been a director of the Company since 1992.
Mr. Bobbitt was a director of Advanced Telecommunications Corporation ("ATC")
until its merger with the Company in December 1992 (the "ATC Merger"). Mr.
Bobbitt is currently President and Chief Executive Officer of Metromedia Asia
Corporation, a telecommunications company. From 1996 until February 1997, Mr.
Bobbitt was President and Chief Executive Officer of Asian American
Telecommunications Corporation. Prior to 1996, Mr. Bobbitt held various
positions including President and Chief Operating Officer and director of
ALLTEL Corporation, a telecommunications company, from 1970 until January 1995.
STEPHEN M. CASE, 39, has been a director of the Company since March
1998. Mr. Case, a co-founder of AOL, has been Chairman of the Board of
Directors of AOL since October 1995, Chief Executive Officer of AOL since April
1993 and a director of AOL since September 1992. Mr. Case served as President
of AOL from July 1996 until February 1998 and from January 1991 to February
1996. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President of AOL from September
1987 to January 1991 and Vice President, Marketing, from 1985 to September
1987. Mr. Case was appointed to the WorldCom Board of Directors pursuant to
the AOL Agreement, which provided that, if so requested a specified time before
the closing of the AOL Transaction, WorldCom would appoint Mr. Case to the
WorldCom Board. Mr. Case made such request.
BERNARD J. EBBERS, 56, has been President and Chief Executive Officer
of the Company since April 1985. Mr. Ebbers has served as a director of the
Company since 1983.
FRANCESCO GALESI, 67, has been a director of the Company since 1992.
Mr. Galesi was a director of ATC until the ATC Merger. Mr. Galesi is the
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Galesi Group, which includes
companies engaged in distribution, manufacturing, real estate and
telecommunications. Mr. Galesi serves as a director of Amnex, Inc., and Walden
Residential Properties, Inc.
STILES A. KELLETT, JR., 54, has served as a director of the Company
since 1981. Mr. Kellett has been Chairman of Kellett Investment Corp. since
1995. From 1978 to 1995, Mr. Kellett served as Chairman of the Board of
Directors of Convalescent Services, Inc., a long-term health care company in
Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Kellett serves as a director of Frederica Bank & Trust
Company, St. Simons Island, Georgia, and Mariner Health Group, Inc., New
London, Connecticut.
JOHN A. PORTER, 54, has been a director of the Company since 1988.
Mr. Porter served as Vice Chairman of the Board of the Company from September
1993 until the MFS Merger and served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of
the Company from 1988 until September 1993. From May 1995 to the present, Mr.
Porter has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer of Industrial Electric Manufacturing, Inc., a manufacturer of
electrical power distribution products. Mr. Porter also serves as Chairman of
Phillips & Brooks/Gladwin, Inc., a manufacturer of pay telephone enclosures and
equipment. Mr. Porter was previously President and sole shareholder of P.M.
Restaurant Group, Inc. which filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the
United States Bankruptcy Code in March 1995. Subsequent to March 1995, Mr.
Porter sold all of his shares in P.M. Restaurant Group, Inc. He is also a
director of Uniroyal Technology Corporation, and XL Connect, Inc.
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JOHN W. SIDGMORE, 46, serves as Vice Chairman of the Board and Chief
Operations Officer of the Company. Mr. Sidgmore has been a director of the
Company since the MFS Merger and has served as a director of MFS since August
1996. Mr. Sidgmore was President and Chief Operating Officer of MFS from
August 1996 until the MFS Merger and has been Chief Executive Officer and a
director of UUNET from June 1994 to the present, and also held the position of
President of UUNET from June 1994 to August 1996 and from January 1997 to
September 1997. From 1989 to 1994, he was President and Chief Executive
Officer of CSC Intelicom, a telecommunications software company. Mr. Sidgmore
is a director of Saville Systems PLC, and Earthlink Network, Inc.
SCOTT D. SULLIVAN, 36, serves as Chief Financial Officer and Secretary
of the Company. From the ATC Merger until December 1994, Mr. Sullivan served
as Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. From 1989 until
1992, Mr. Sullivan served as an executive officer of two long-distance
companies, including ATC. From 1983 to 1989, Mr. Sullivan served in various
capacities with KPMG Peat Marwick LLP. Mr. Sullivan has served as a director
of the Company since March 1996.
LAWRENCE C. TUCKER, 55, is a general partner of Brown Brothers
Harriman & Co. ("Brown Brothers"), which is the general and managing partner of
The 1818 Fund, L.P. and The 1818 Fund II, L.P. (collectively, "The 1818
Funds"). He is also a director of The WellCare Management Group, Inc.,
Riverwood International Corporation and National HealthCare Corporation. Mr.
Tucker has served as a director of the Company since May 1995, and previously
served as director of the Company from May 28, 1992 until the ATC Merger.
MANAGEMENT OF MCI WORLDCOM FOLLOWING THE MCI/WORLDCOM MERGER. WorldCom has
agreed to cause the WorldCom Board of Directors as of the MCI/WorldCom
Effective Time to consist of seventeen members, which shall consist of eleven
members designated by WorldCom from among directors of WorldCom and six members
designated by MCI from among directors of MCI. As of the date hereof, the
WorldCom Board of Directors is comprised of eleven members. Additionally on
March 11, 1998, MCI and WorldCom announced that the seventeen member board
would include the current WorldCom Board members plus the MCI selections of
Clifford L. Alexander, Jr., Judith Areen, Gordon S. Macklin, Bert C. Roberts,
Timothy F. Price and Gerald H. Taylor. If, prior to the MCI/WorldCom Effective
Time, any of the persons named by either WorldCom or MCI to serve on the Board
of Directors of the Company following the MCI/WorldCom Merger ("MCI WorldCom")
as of the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time declines or is unable to serve as a
director, the party that designated such individual may name a replacement to
become a director. The directors of WorldCom are elected annually.
WorldCom has agreed to cause Bert C. Roberts, Jr. to be appointed Chairman of
MCI WorldCom, and to cause the senior management of MCI WorldCom to be as
previously agreed between the parties. Pursuant to the MCI/WorldCom Merger
Agreement, Bernard J. Ebbers will be the President and Chief Executive Officer
of MCI WorldCom. In addition, Gerald H. Taylor, currently Chief Executive
Officer of MCI, will become President and Chief Executive Officer of MCI
WorldCom International, responsible for all strategy, operations and ventures
outside of the U.S.; Timothy F. Price, currently President and Chief Operating
Officer of MCI, will become President and Chief Executive Officer of MCI
WorldCom's U.S. communications operating subsidiary. The U.S. operating
subsidiary will be responsible for the communications business in the United
States, including all sales and marketing, customer service, product
development, and network operations. John W. Sidgmore, currently Vice Chairman
and Chief Operations Officer of WorldCom, will become President and Chief
Executive Officer of Internet & Technology, responsible for managing WorldCom's
Internet businesses, and information technology (IT) services, including MCI
Systemhouse, architecture, design, and planning for the global network; and
Scott D. Sullivan will continue to serve as Chief Financial Officer of MCI
WorldCom.
Additional information about MCI selected Board members follows:
CLIFFORD L. ALEXANDER, Jr., age 64, has been President of Alexander &
Associates, Inc., management consultants, since 1981. Mr. Alexander is also a
director of Dreyfus 3rd Century Fund, Dreyfus General Family of Funds, Mutual
of America Life Insurance Company, Dun & Bradstreet Corporation, American Home
Products Corporation, Cognizant Corporation and TLC Holdings, Inc.
JUDITH AREEN, age 53, has been Executive Vice President for Law Center
Affairs and Dean of the Law Center, Georgetown University, since 1989. She has
been a Professor of Law, Georgetown University, since 1976.
GORDON S. MACKLIN, age 68, has been Chairman, White River Corporation,
an information services company since 1993. Mr. Macklin is also a director of
Fund American Enterprises Holdings, Inc.; CCC Information Services Group, Inc.;
MedImmune, Inc.; Shoppers Express; Spacehab, Inc.; and director, trustee or
managing general partner, as the case may be, of 52 of the investment companies
in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Mr. Macklin was formerly chairman,
Hambrecht and Quist Group; director, H&Q Healthcare Investors; and President,
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
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TIMOTHY F. PRICE, age 44, has been President and Chief Operating
Officer of MCI since November 1996. He has been President and Chief Operating
Officer of MCIT since July 1995. He was an Executive Vice President and Group
President of MCIT, serving as Group President, Communication Services, from
December 1994 to July 1995. He was an Executive Vice President of MCIT, serving
as President, Business Markets, from June 1993 to December 1994. He was a
Senior Vice President of MCIT from November 1990 to June 1993, serving as
President, Business Services, from July 1992 to June 1993 and as Senior Vice
President, Consumer Markets, from November 1990 to July 1992.
BERT C. ROBERTS, JR., age 55, has been Chairman of the Board of MCI
since June 1992. He was Chief Executive Officer of MCI from December 1991 to
November 1996. He was President and Chief Operating Officer of MCI from October
1985 to June 1992 and President of MCI Telecommunications Corporation ("MCIT")
from May 1983 to June 1992. Mr. Roberts has been a director of MCI since 1985;
a non-executive director of BT from October 1994 to March 1998; and a non-
executive director of The News Corporation Limited, a global multi-media
company located in Australia, since 1995.
GERALD H. TAYLOR, age 56, has been Chief Executive Officer of MCI
since November 1996. He has been Vice Chairman of MCIT since July 1995. He was
President and Chief Operating Officer of MCI from July 1994 to November 1996
and President and Chief Operating Officer of MCIT from April 1994 to July 1995.
He was an Executive Vice President and Group Executive of MCIT from September
1993 to April 1994. He was an Executive Vice President of MCIT, serving as
President, Consumer Markets, from November 1990 to September 1993. Mr. Taylor
has been a director of MCI since September 1994 and was a non-executive
director of BT from November 1996 to November 1997.
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires directors,
executive officers and 10% or greater shareholders of the Company ("Reporting
Persons") to file with the SEC initial reports of ownership and reports of
changes in ownership of equity securities of the Company. To the Company's
knowledge, based solely on its review of the copies of such reports furnished
to the Company and written representations that certain reports were not
required, during the year ended December 31, 1997, all Section 16(a) filing
requirements applicable to Reporting Persons were complied with, except that
Messrs. Galesi, Jaros, Porter and Tucker each filed one late report covering
one, four, five, and one transactions, respectively.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table sets forth the compensation of the named executive officers
of the Company for the three years ended December 31, 1997. The table also
sets forth, for informational purposes, the compensation paid by MFS and/or
UUNET during 1996 to Messrs. Crowe and Sidgmore, who became executive officers
of the Company upon completion of the MFS Merger.
Long Term
Compensation
-------------
Annual Compensation Awards
------------------------- -------------
Securities
Underlying
Options/ All Other
Name and Principal Position Year Salary ($) Bonus($) SARs (#) Compensation($)
- -------------------------------- -------- ----------- ------------- -------------- ----------------
Bernard J. Ebbers 1997 935,000 $17,096,250(1) 1,200,000/0 4,500(2)
President and 1996 935,000 2,337,500 1,200,000/0 4,500
Chief Executive Officer 1995 860,000 2,125,000 900,000/0 4,500
James Q. Crowe(4) 1997 150,769 0 0/0 20,710,685(3)
Former Chief Executive 1996 496,923 1,000,000 0/0 149,692
Officer, MFS
John W. Sidgmore (5) 1997 500,000 0 1,000,000/0 961,750(2)(3)
Chief Operations Officer 1996 283,577 494,443 -0- 2,182,654
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Long Term
Compensation
-------------
Annual Compensation Awards
------------------------- -------------
Securities
Underlying
Options/ All Other
Name and Principal Position Year Salary ($) Bonus($) SARs (#) Compensation($)
- -------------------------------- -------- ----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Scott D. Sullivan 1997 500,000 3,500,000(1) 1,000,000/0 4,500(2)
Chief Financial Officer 1996 375,000 500,000 100,000/0 4,500
and Secretary 1995 294,000 225,000 240,000/0 4,500
- -----------
(1) Includes payments received by Mr. Ebbers and Mr. Sullivan of $13.0
million and $3.5 million, respectively, pursuant to the WorldCom
Performance Bonus Plan.
(2) Matching contributions to the Company's 401(k) Plan.
(3) Includes MFS Shareworks Plus Awards paid out on January 9, 1997 in
connection with the MFS Merger. The value received from such awards
was $20,276,000 for Mr. Crowe and $957,250 for Mr. Sidgmore. The
amount for Mr. Crowe also includes $434,685 in compensation received
in connection with the employer match portion of Mr. Crowe's
shareworks distribution.
(4) Resigned in June 1997. See "Employment Agreements and Termination of
Employment Arrangements."
(5) As of December 31, 1997, the total number (and value) of restricted
stock holdings of Mr. Sidgmore was 193,533 ($5,854,373). See
"Employment Agreements and Termination of Employment Arrangements."
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
The following table sets forth information concerning stock option grants made
in the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, to the individuals named in the
Summary Compensation Table. There were no grants of stock appreciation rights
("SARs") to said individuals during the year.
Individual Grants
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Potential Realizable Value at
Number of Assumed Annual Rates of Stock Price
Securities % of Total Appreciation for Option Term(3)
Underlying Options Granted -----------------------------------
Options to Employees Exercise or Expiration
Name Granted (#)(1) in FY Base Price ($/Sh)(2) Date 5% ($) 10% ($)
- ----------------- ---------- ---------- ------------------ --------- ---------- ----------
Bernard J. Ebbers 1,200,000 4.1% 26.00 01/23/07 19,621,512 49,724,765
James Q. Crowe -- -- -- -- -- --
John W. Sidgmore 1,000,000 3.4% 26.00 02/11/07 16,351,260 41,437,304
Scott D. Sullivan 1,000,000 3.4% 26.00 02/11/07 16,351,260 41,437,304
- -------------------
(1) The options terminate on the earlier of their expiration date or ten
years after grant or, generally, immediately on termination for
reasons other than retirement, disability, death or without cause;
three months after termination of employment on retirement; 12 months
after termination for disability, death or without cause; or upon the
consummation of a specified change of control transaction. The
options may be transferred to certain family members and related
entities with the consent of the Compensation and Stock Option
Committee.
The options for Messrs. Ebbers, Sidgmore and Sullivan become
exercisable in three equal annual installments beginning January 1,
1998 through January 1, 2000.
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(2) The exercise price may be paid in cash or, in the discretion of the
Company's Compensation and Stock Option Committee, by shares of Common
Stock valued at the closing quoted selling price on the date of
exercise, or a combination of cash and Common Stock.
(3) The indicated 5% and 10% rates of appreciation are provided to comply
with SEC regulations and do not necessarily reflect the views of the
Company as to the likely trend in the stock price. Actual gains, if
any, on stock option exercises and the sale of Common Stock holdings
will be dependent on, among other things, the future performance of
the Common Stock and overall stock market conditions. There can be no
assurance that the amounts reflected in this table will be achieved.
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FY-END OPTION VALUES
The following table sets forth information concerning the number and value
realized as to options exercised during 1997 and options held at December 31,
1997, by the individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table and the value
of those options held at such date. The options exercised were not exercised
as SARs and no SARs were held at year end. All options had exercise prices
lower than the fair market value of the Common Stock on December 31, 1997
("in-the-money" options).
Value of Unexercised
Number of Securities Underlying In-The-Money Options at
Unexercised Options at FY-End (#) FY-End ($)(2)
Shares Acquired Value ------------------------------- ----------------------------
Name on Exercise (#) Realized ($)(1) Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
---- --------------- --------------- ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
Bernard J. Ebbers - - 2,875,696 1,200,000 44,326,826 8,350,000
James Q. Crowe 1,810,263 48,202,166 - - - -
John W. Sidgmore - - 368,704 666,667 2,299,555 2,833,335
Scott D. Sullivan 373,028 5,581,314 433,333 766,667 3,091,665 4,070,825
- --------------------
(1) Based upon the difference between the closing price on the date of
exercise and the option exercise price.
(2) Based upon a price of $30.25 per share, which was the closing price of
Common Stock on December 31, 1997.
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS. WorldCom's directors are paid fees of $22,500 per
year and $1,000 per meeting attended of the Board plus certain expenses.
Committee members are paid a fee of $750 for any committee meeting attended on
the same day as a Board meeting and $1,000 for any other committee meeting
attended, plus certain expenses. The chairman of each committee receives an
additional $3,000 per year.
Pursuant to WorldCom's Third Amended and Restated 1990 Stock Option Plan, each
non-employee director receives annually a non-discretionary grant of options to
purchase 5,000 shares of Common Stock at the fair market value of such stock on
the date of grant. Such options are immediately exercisable and expire on the
earliest to occur of (a) ten years following the date of grant, (b) three
months following retirement, (c) 12 months following termination of service due
to disability or death, (d) upon cessation of service for reasons other than
retirement, death or disability, or (e) the date of consummation of a specified
change in control transaction defined generally to include the dissolution or
liquidation of the Company, a reorganization, merger or consolidation of the
Company in which the Company is not the surviving corporation, or a sale of
substantially all of the assets or 80% or more of the outstanding stock of the
Company to another entity. The exercise price may be paid in cash or, in the
discretion of the Compensation Committee and Stock Option Committee, the Common
Stock. In the discretion of the Compensation and Stock Option Committee,
shares receivable on exercise may be withheld to pay applicable taxes on the
exercise.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS AND TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS. Pursuant to
the employment agreement of Mr. Sidgmore with UUNET, approximately 420,000
restricted shares of Common Stock vested as a result of the MFS Merger.
Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Sidgmore's employment agreement with UUNET, Mr.
Sidgmore's initial base salary was $220,000 per year, plus a bonus targeted at
$130,000 per year. Mr. Sidgmore received a bonus of $400,000 for 1996 under
his employment agreement. If Mr. Sidgmore's employment is terminated without
cause, he will receive severance payments totaling $300,000. Under the
employment agreement, Mr. Sidgmore also received options to purchase at $0.04
per share 4,644,635 shares of WorldCom Common Stock (which options were
exercised and 193,533 of the shares issued remain subject to a right of
repurchase, which right lapses as to 13,823 shares each month). In the event
of a change in control of WorldCom or an
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involuntary termination other than for cause of Mr. Sidgmore's employment,
WorldCom's right of repurchase lapses with respect to 50 percent of any of the
shares subject to a right of repurchase at the time and such right also lapses
over time. If as a result of such acceleration, Mr. Sidgmore would incur an
excise tax pursuant to Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code or
corresponding provision of applicable state law, the Company is required to pay
him when due to the applicable tax authority an amount sufficient to pay the
excise tax and any federal, state and local taxes payment with respect thereto.
Effective June 26, 1997, Mr. Crowe resigned as director, Chairman of the Board
and employee of WorldCom. Pursuant to an employment arrangement, as
subsequently modified, among other things, Mr. Crowe did not have any direct
operating responsibility but continued to serve as a director and Chairman of
the Board of the Company for a specified term in 1997, in connection with which
he received a base salary of $120,000 per year for certain services.
Additionally, pursuant to such agreement, Mr. Crowe's options to purchase an
aggregate of 872,562 shares of WorldCom Common Stock at an exercise price of
$2.869 per share became fully exercisable and all shares granted under the
WorldCom/MFS Employee Stock Bonus Plan and the WorldCom/MFS 1995 Deferred Stock
Purchase Plan vested immediately.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION. From January 1,
1997 until June 27, 1997 the Company's Compensation and Stock Option Committee
was composed of Stiles A. Kellett, Jr. (Chairman), Walter Scott, Jr., Lawrence
C. Tucker and Michael B. Yanney. From June 28, 1997 until July 30, 1997 the
Company's Compensation and Stock Option Committee was comprised of Stiles A.
Kellett, Jr. (Chairman), Lawrence C. Tucker and Michael B. Yanney. Subsequent
to July 30, 1997, the Company's Compensation and Stock Option Committee was
composed of Stiles A. Kellett, Jr. (Chairman), Max E. Bobbitt, and Lawrence C.
Tucker.
COMPENSATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AFTER THE MCI/WORLDCOM MERGER. WorldCom
relies on the Compensation and Stock Option Committee of the WorldCom Board
(the "Compensation Committee") to recommend the form and amount of compensation
of its executive officers. It is anticipated that, when the Compensation
Committee meets to determine such compensation after the closing of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger, the Compensation Committee will evaluate its policies
designed to attract, motivate, reward and retain executives with the skills,
experience and talents required to promote the short-term and long-term
performance and growth of MCI/WorldCom. Historically, WorldCom's executive
compensation has had three elements: base salary, annual incentive compensation
and long-term incentive compensation.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF VOTING SECURITIES. As of March 6, 1998, the following
persons, individually or as a group, were known to the Company to be deemed to
be the beneficial owners of more than five percent of the issued and
outstanding Common Stock, each of which persons has sole voting and investment
power over such Common Stock, except as set forth in the footnotes hereto:
Amount and
Name and Address of Nature of Existing Percent
Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership (1) Of Class(1)
- ------------------- ------------------------ -----------
FMR Corp. 73,298,304(2) 7.1%
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
- --------------------
(1) Based upon 1,026,645,863 shares of WorldCom Common Stock issued and
outstanding plus, as to the holder thereof only, exercise or conversion
of all derivative securities that are exercisable or convertible
currently or within 60 days after March 6, 1998.
(2) Based upon shares owned as of December 31, 1997, as provided by FMR
Corp., including 64,238,970 shares beneficially owned by Fidelity
Management & Research Company ("Fidelity"), as the result of serving as
investment adviser to various investment companies registered under
Section 8 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and serving as
investment adviser to certain other funds which are generally offered to
limited groups of investors; 8,026,134 shares beneficially owned by
35
40
Fidelity Management Trust Company, as a result of its serving as
investment manager of the institutional accounts; and 1,033,200 shares
beneficially owned by Fidelity International Limited, as a result of its
serving as investment adviser to various non-United States investment
companies.
The number of shares beneficially owned by Fidelity includes 5,151,716
shares issuable upon conversion of the WorldCom Series A Preferred
Stock. The number of shares beneficially owned by Fidelity Management
Trust Company includes 237,589 shares issuable upon conversion of
WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock. FMR Corp. has sole voting power with
respect to 7,145,497 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to
73,298,304 shares. Fidelity International Limited has sole voting and
dispositive power with respect to all the shares it beneficially owns.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT. The following table sets forth the
beneficial ownership of Common Stock, as of March 6, 1998, by each director,
each MCI designee, the named executive officers and by all persons, as a group,
who are currently directors and executive officers of WorldCom. No person
listed on the following table is the beneficial owner of any shares of WorldCom
Series A Preferred Stock. Each director or executive officer has sole voting
and investment power over the shares listed opposite his name except as set
forth in the footnotes hereto.
Number of Shares Percent
Name of Beneficial Owner Beneficially Owned(1) of Class(1)
- ------------------------ --------------------- ----------
Clifford Alexander, Jr 0 *
James C. Allen 481,929(2) *
Judith Areen 0 *
Carl J. Aycock 706,734(3) *
Max E. Bobbitt 256,292(4) *
Stephen M. Case 0 *
Bernard J. Ebbers 16,920,539(5) 1.6%
Francesco Galesi 3,021,908(6) *
Stiles A. Kellett, Jr 4,036,816(7) *
Gordon S. Macklin 0 *
John A. Porter 4,433,924(8) *
Bert C. Roberts, Jr 0 *
John W. Sidgmore 3,468,586(9) *
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41
Number of Shares Percent
Name of Beneficial Owner Beneficially Owned(1) of Class(1)
- ------------------------ --------------------- ----------
Scott D. Sullivan 436,904(10) *
Gerald H. Taylor 0 *
Lawrence C. Tucker 3,170,096(11) *
All Directors and Current Executive
Officers as a Group (11 persons) 36,933,782(12) 3.6%
- ---------------
* Less than one percent.
(1) Based upon 1,026,645,863 shares of WorldCom Common Stock issued and
outstanding plus, as to the holder thereof only, exercise or conversion
of all derivative securities that are exercisable or convertible
currently or within 60 days after March 6, 1998.
(2) Includes 684 shares owned by Mr. Allen's spouse, as to which beneficial
ownership is disclaimed; and 37,000 shares held in a revocable trust as
to which Mr. Allen is a co-trustee.
(3) Includes 5,576 shares owned by Mr. Aycock's spouse; 73,048 shares
purchasable upon exercise of options; and 2,208 shares held as custodian
for children.
(4) Includes 38,512 shares purchasable upon exercise of options; and 108,890
shares as to which Mr. Bobbitt shares voting and investment power with
his spouse.
(5) Includes 36,432 shares held as custodian for children; 2,875,696 shares
purchasable upon exercise of options; and 855,448 shares owned by Linda
Ebbers, as to which Mr. Ebbers has voting power.
(6) Consists of 2,983,396 shares owned by Rotterdam Ventures, Inc., of which
Mr. Galesi is sole shareholder; and 38,512 shares purchasable upon
exercise of options.
(7) Includes 16,000 shares owned by Mr. Kellett's spouse; and 900,000 shares
owned by a family partnership; 30,500 shares owned by a partnership as
to which Mr. Kellett is a general partner; 80,816 shares purchasable upon
exercise of options; and 9,500 shares purchasable upon exercise of
options held by Mr. Kellett's spouse.
(8) Includes 165,560 shares held as custodian or trustee for minor children;
73,048 shares purchasable upon exercise of options; 85,812 shares held
in trust for son of majority age, as to which beneficial ownership is
also disclaimed; 6,049 shares held in a trust of which Mr. Porter is
trustee with sole voting and dispositive power; and 6,500 shares held in
trust for employees of Mr. Porter.
(9) Includes 368,704 shares purchasable upon exercise of options; and 11,120
shares held in a trust of which Mr. Sidgmore is sole trustee with sole
voting and dispositive power.
(10) Includes 433,333 shares purchasable upon exercise of options.
(11) A total of 3,131,828 of these shares are beneficially owned by The 1818
Funds. Mr. Tucker is the general and managing partner of The 1818 Funds
and Mr. Tucker, as a general partner of Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.,
shares voting and investment power with respect to such securities.
Also includes 38,268 shares purchasable upon exercise of options.
(12) Includes 4,029,437 shares purchasable upon exercise of options.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
As of December 31, 1996, R. Douglas Bradbury held 52,500 MFS Shareworks Plus
Awards. This award, totaling $6.4 million, was paid out in January 1997 in
connection with the MFS Merger. Additionally, in accordance with the
WorldCom/MFS 1992 Stock Option Plan, upon the termination of Mr. Bradbury as
Chief Financial Officer of MFS on February 28, 1997, all of Mr. Bradbury's
options to purchase an aggregate of 749,725 shares of WorldCom Common Stock at
an exercise price of $2.869 per share were immediately vested. Mr. Bradbury
subsequently exercised all such options and sold the underlying shares of
WorldCom Common Stock.
The AOL Agreement provided that, if so requested at least five business days
before the closing of the AOL Transaction, WorldCom would cause Stephen M.
Case, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President of AOL, to
be appointed to the WorldCom Board. Mr. Case made such request.
AOL and WorldCom and/or certain of its subsidiaries are currently parties to
certain agreements regarding the provision of dial-up and leased line access to
AOL. Upon closing of the AOL Transaction, WorldCom, AOL and ANS entered into a
Master Agreement for Data Communications which has an initial term expiring
December 31, 2002, subject to extension by AOL in certain circumstances. The
agreement provides that ANS will (i) continue to maintain and operate portions
of AOL's dial-up member access network; (ii) install, activate, maintain and
operate additional modems for AOL's dial-up network in the United States and
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Canada; and (iii) provide AOL with Internet access. AOL committed to purchase
from ANS specified percentages of its incremental modem requirements each year,
subject to ANS fulfilling certain obligations. The fees for the foregoing
services are based on several factors, including certain fixed base prices, the
prices offered by ANS to its non- affiliated customers, prices paid by AOL to,
or offered to AOL by, other significant suppliers of modems and modem services,
and, if AOL provides such services to itself, AOL's cost. The fees are subject
to adjustment twice per year and include certain agreed-upon discounts. AOL,
UUNET and the surviving corporation of the CompuServe Merger also entered into
a Network Services Agreement, which has an initial term expiring December 31,
2002, subject to extension by AOL in certain circumstances. Under this
agreement, such surviving corporation provides AOL with capacity on the
CompuServe network, and AOL committed to use the network for specified portions
of its requirements. The fees to be paid by AOL are based on several factors,
including certain fixed base prices, the prices offered to AOL by other
significant suppliers of network capacity, and such surviving corporation's
actual cost to provide the network capacity. Expenditures by AOL under all of
such agreements during the twelve month period commencing as of the closing of
the AOL Transaction is anticipated to exceed $400 million. Actual results may
vary materially from such expectation. See "Cautionary Statement Regarding
Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1. Business --Risk Factors."
The AOL Agreement included customary representations and warranties, and
provisions for each of AOL and WorldCom to indemnify the other for certain
losses and expenses, subject to specified time limits and minimum amounts. AOL
and ANS also entered into a Noncompetition and Nonsolicitation Agreement under
which (i) AOL agreed to certain limitations on its business activities in the
network services business, (ii) WorldCom agreed that CompuServe will be subject
to certain limitations in the online services business, and (iii) each of the
parties agreed to certain restrictions on its rights to solicit or otherwise
deal with customers, suppliers, employees, independent contractors, agents or
representatives of the other.
In connection with the negotiation and approval of the BFP Merger Agreement,
Mr. Ebbers indicated his expectation that the WorldCom Board would consider the
nomination of an individual designated by the BFP Board of Directors (who was
expected to be Mr. James C. Allen) for election as a director of WorldCom
following the effective time of the BFP Merger. The BFP Merger resulted in the
vesting of Mr. Allen's 66,667 shares of BFP stock options exercisable at $12.50
per share. All of Mr. Allen's BFP common stock were converted into WorldCom
Common Stock in the BFP Merger. As of November 30, 1997, Mr. Allen
beneficially owned 319,885 shares of BFP common stock. Pursuant to a Change in
Control Agreement entered into as of April 8, 1997 between BFP and Mr. Allen,
Mr. Allen received a $2,075,158 payment (including a gross-up payment in
respect of excise tax imposed by Section 4999 and of the Code and related
interest and penalties), upon his termination as Vice Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of BFP in February 1998. Mr. Allen is also entitled to
continuation of medical insurance benefits for a three year period, and is
subject to certain non-competition and non-solicitation provisions.
On August 19, 1997, in connection with the acquisition by the Company of the
outstanding shares of McCourt Fiber Network, Inc., which was the holder of the
shares of Metropolitan Fiber Systems - McCourt, Inc. not already owned by the
Company, the Company issued to shareholders of McCourt Fiber Network, Inc.
846,154 shares of WorldCom Common Stock which total included 812,308 shares
issued to David C. McCourt, then a member of the WorldCom Board of Directors.
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MCI/WORLDCOM MERGER
A number of executive officers of MCI, including some of the officers who are
also directors, have certain interests in the MCI/WorldCom Merger that are
different from, or in addition to, the interests of the stockholders of MCI
generally. With respect to Messrs. Roberts, Price and Taylor, executives who
serve as directors of MCI and who will serve as executives and directors of the
combined company, and the other MCI designees each will be entitled to receive
in connection with the MCI/WorldCom Merger a number of shares of WorldCom Common
Stock and options to purchase shares of WorldCom Common Stock based upon the MCI
Exchange Ratio, in exchange for the shares of MCI Common Stock beneficially
owned by Messrs. Roberts, Price and Taylor and the other MCI designees as of the
MCI/WorldCom Effective Time and options to purchase shares of MCI Common Stock
held by Messrs. Roberts, Price and Taylor and the other MCI designees as of the
MCI/WorldCom Effective Time. In addition, in connection with the MCI/WorldCom
Merger, Messrs. Roberts, Taylor and Price and the other MCI designees will
receive cash retention bonuses of $10.5 million, $9.5 million and $9.0 million,
respectively, which replace the senior retention incentive stock units granted
pursuant to the BT/MCI Merger Agreement, which were discontinued when that
agreement was terminated.
OWNERSHIP OF MCI COMMON STOCK; STOCK OPTIONS. As of December 31, 1997,
directors and executive officers of MCI beneficially owned an aggregate of
2,557,871 shares of MCI Common Stock (or approximately 0.4% of the then
outstanding MCI Common Stock), including restricted shares of MCI Common Stock
("MCI Restricted Shares") and incentive stock units ("ISUs") but excluding
shares of MCI Common Stock that may be acquired upon the exercise of
outstanding options to purchase MCI Common Stock ("MCI Stock Options.")
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43
As of December 31, 1997, directors and executive officers of MCI held options
to purchase an aggregate of 4,299,020 shares of MCI Common Stock, of which
options to purchase 2,870,830 shares of MCI Common Stock were exercisable, and
the remainder of which will, pursuant to the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement,
become fully vested and exercisable immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom
Effective Time if not previously vested. The MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement
provides that, on or prior to the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time, MCI shall take
all action necessary to cause each option to purchase shares of MCI Common
Stock that remains outstanding at the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time to be
converted into an option to acquire that number of shares of WorldCom Common
Stock determined by multiplying the number of shares of MCI Common Stock
subject to such option by the MCI Exchange Ratio, rounded, if necessary, up to
the nearest whole share of WorldCom Common Stock, at a price per share equal to
the per-share exercise price specified in such MCI Stock Option divided by the
MCI Exchange Ratio.
As of December 31, 1997, executive officers of MCI held an aggregate of
1,083,324 MCI Restricted Shares and ISUs, including in the case of Mr. Roberts,
Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Price, 299,903, 229,641 and 154,138 shares, respectively.
Pursuant to the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement at the MCI/WorldCom Effective
Time, all unvested and unpaid MCI Restricted Shares and ISUs outstanding on the
date of execution of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement will become fully vested
and (unless voluntarily deferred) paid. Any MCI Restricted Shares or ISUs
outstanding, at the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time shall be converted to the
number of shares of WorldCom Common Stock or ISUs determined by multiplying
such MCI Restricted Shares and ISUs by the MCI Exchange Ratio.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial
ownership of MCI Common Stock as of December 31, 1997, assuming the exercise of
all options exercisable on, or within 60 days of, such date, by the persons
selected by MCI to serve as directors of MCI WorldCom. Each such individual
has sole voting and investment power over the shares listed opposite his or her
name except as set forth in the footnotes hereto.
NUMBER OF SHARES PERCENT
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIALLY OWNED(1) OF CLASS
------------------------ --------------------- --------
Clifford L. Alexander, Jr. . . . . . . . . 20,000(2) *
Judith Areen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22,803 *
Gordon S. Macklin . . . . . . . . . . . . 64,000(3) *
Timothy F. Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290,243(4) *
Bert C. Roberts, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . 1,609,823(5) *
Gerald H. Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 998,579(6) *
- ----------
* Less than one percent.
(1) Unless otherwise noted, each person has sole voting power and sole
investment power with respect to the securities reported, except with
respect to shares of MCI Common Stock allocated to accounts under MCI's
Employee Stock Ownership and 401(k) Plan ("ESOP"), with respect to which
shares such person has sole voting power only. Where indicated, the data
also include shares which each person had the right to acquire upon
exercise of stock options within sixty days of December 31, 1997, and also
shares issued as awards of MCI Restricted Shares and/or ISUs.
(2) Consists of 20,000 shares of MCI Common Stock Mr. Alexander has the right
to acquire pursuant to the exercise of stock options.
(3) Includes 40,000 shares of MCI Common Stock Mr. Macklin has the right to
acquire pursuant to the exercise of stock options. Does not include 3,200
shares of MCI Common Stock owned solely by Mr. Macklin's wife, in which
shares he disclaims beneficial ownership.
(4) Includes 14,891 shares of MCI Common Stock allocated to Mr. Price's ESOP
account, 102,825 shares of MCI Common Stock he has the right to acquire
pursuant to the exercise of stock options and 154,138 shares of MCI Common
Stock issued as ISUs. Does not include 1,000 shares of MCI Common Stock
held by Mr. Price's wife as custodian for the benefit of their minor
children, in which shares Mr. Price disclaims beneficial ownership.
(5) Includes 46,020 shares of MCI Common Stock allocated to Mr. Roberts' ESOP
account, 798,500 shares of MCI Common Stock he has the right to acquire
pursuant to the exercise of stock options, 255,736 shares of MCI Common
Stock issued as restricted stock awards, 44,167 shares of MCI Common Stock
issued as ISUs, 122,400 shares of MCI Common Stock owned by a limited
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44
partnership in which Mr. Roberts is a general partner, and 18,000 shares
of MCI Common Stock owned by the Roberts' Foundation. Does not include
12,000 shares of MCI Common Stock held by Mr. Roberts' wife as custodian
for the benefit of their minor child, in which shares Mr. Roberts
disclaims beneficial ownership.
(6) Includes 36,251 shares of MCI Common Stock allocated to Mr. Taylor's ESOP
account, 661,420 shares of MCI Common Stock he has the right to acquire
pursuant to the exercise of stock options, and 229,641 shares of MCI
Common Stock issued as ISUs.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS. MCI had previously entered into employment agreements
(the "Employment Agreements") with Messrs. Roberts, Taylor and Price, (as well
as five other MCI executives) (collectively, the "Executives"), effective as of
November 2, 1996, and expiring on December 31, 1999.
Pursuant to the Employment Agreements, each Executive will receive an annual
base salary, subject to increases (but not decreases) at the discretion of MCI.
The 1997 annual salaries of certain of the Executives under the Employment
Agreements were as follows: Bert C. Roberts, Jr., $1,000,000; Gerald H. Taylor,
$700,000; and Timothy F. Price, $550,000. In addition, each Executive will
receive an annual bonus for each fiscal year of MCI ending during the term of
the Executive's employment with a minimum bonus amount of no less than the
average annual bonus earned by the Executive in respect of the 1994, 1995 and
1996 fiscal years. The Executives will also participate in any long-term
incentive compensation plan or program maintained by MCI for senior executives
of MCI and all long-term compensation plans and programs in existence
immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom Merger are, under the Employment
Agreements, required to be maintained for at least two years following the
MCI/WorldCom Effective Time or replaced by programs that are no less favorable
to the Executives. In addition, the Executives will participate in all MCI
pension and welfare benefit plans and programs which are applicable to senior
executives of MCI, and all pension and welfare benefit plans and programs in
existence immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom Merger are, under the
Employment Agreements, required to be maintained for at least two years
following the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time or be replaced by programs that are
no less favorable to the Executives.
Under the Employment Agreements, in the event an Executive's employment is
terminated by MCI (for this purpose "MCI" shall mean MCI, MCI/WorldCom and
their respective affiliates) without "Cause" or by the Executive for "Good
Reason" (as each such term is defined below), the Executive is to receive (a)
the Executive's accrued but unpaid salary and vacation pay, and any unpaid
bonus from the prior fiscal year, (b) a cash payment equal to three times the
sum of (x) the Executive's annual base salary and (y) the greater of (A) the
average annual bonus paid to or accrued for the Executive by MCI in respect of
the three calendar years preceding the termination of employment and (B) the
annual bonus paid to or accrued for the Executive in respect of 1995 (c)
continued medical, dental and life insurance coverage for the Executive and the
Executive's eligible dependents on the same basis as in effect immediately
prior to the Executive's termination of employment until the earlier of (x) 36
months after the Executive's termination of employment or (y) the commencement
of coverage with a subsequent employer, but only to the extent such coverage
duplicates or exceeds the coverage provided by MCI, (d) unless otherwise
expressly elected by the Executive prior to such termination, payment, in a
cash lump sum, of all amounts deferred by the Executive under any non-qualified
plan of deferred compensation maintained by MCI or MCI WorldCom
(notwithstanding the payment provisions of any such plan to the contrary), (e)
full acceleration of vesting and exercisability of any equity based and cash
retention awards (including, but not limited to, MCI Stock Options, MCI
Restricted Shares and ISUs) granted to the Executive prior to the Executive's
termination of employment and (f) 36 months of age and service credit for all
purposes under all defined benefit plans of MCI (or the equivalent).
For purposes of the Employment Agreements, "Cause" means: (i) a deliberate and
material breach by the Executive of his duties and responsibilities under the
Employment Agreement that results in material harm to MCI, which breach is (A)
either the product of willful malfeasance or gross neglect, (B) committed in
bad faith or without reasonable belief that such breach is in, or not contrary
to, the best interests of MCI and (C) not remedied within 30 days after receipt
of written notice from MCI specifying such breach; (ii) the Executive's willful
and material breach of the restrictive covenants contained in the Employment
Agreements which is not remedied within 30 days after receipt of written notice
from MCI specifying such breach; or (iii) the Executive's plea of guilty or
nolo contendre to, or nonappealable conviction of, a felony, which conviction
or plea causes material harm to the reputation or financial position of MCI.
"Good Reason" means the occurrence of any of the following without the
Executive's express written consent: (i) the assignment to the Executive of any
duties inconsistent with the Executive's current positions, duties,
responsibilities and status with MCI, a change in the Executive's reporting
responsibilities, title or offices or any removal of the Executive from or
failure to elect or re-elect the Executive to any position with MCI (including
membership on the MCI Board) except in connection with the Executive's
promotion or a termination of employment for Cause; (ii) a reduction in the
Executive's base salary or target annual bonus or long-term incentives, as such
salary, target bonus and incentives are increased from time to time; (iii) the
failure to continue in effect any employee benefit plan or compensation plan in
which the Executive participates unless the Executive is provided with
participation in other plans that provide substantially comparable benefits or
the taking of any action that would adversely affect the Executive's benefits
under any such plan; (iv) any relocation of the Executive's principal place of
business from
40
45
the location described in the Employment Agreement; (v) any reduction in fringe
benefits and perquisites provided to the Executive; (vi) any material breach by
MCI of any provisions of the Employment Agreement; and (vii) a failure by MCI
WorldCom to expressly assume, as of the date of the MCI/WorldCom Merger, all
obligations of MCI under the Employment Agreement.
The Employment Agreements further provide that if the payments described above
constitute "parachute payments" under applicable provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), MCI is to pay the Executive an
additional amount sufficient to place the Executive in the same after-tax
financial position the Executive would have been in if the Executive had not
incurred the excise tax imposed under Section 4999 of the Code in respect of
such parachute payments.
In the event an Executive's employment is terminated due to the Executive's
death or "Disability" (as defined in the Employment Agreements), the Employment
Agreements provide that MCI is to pay to the Executive (or the Executive's
beneficiaries) a lump sum cash amount equal to (i) the annual rate of the
Executive's annual base salary as in effect on the date of termination and (ii)
the highest bonus paid to the Executive under MCI's annual bonus plan during
the three fiscal years preceding the termination of employment. In addition,
the Executive is to receive (i) the unpaid portion of his annual base salary
accrued to the date of termination and any accrued vacation as of the date of
termination and (ii) the unpaid portion of his bonus accrued with respect to
the last full fiscal year of MCI ended prior to the date of termination, when
such bonus would otherwise be payable.
The Employment Agreements contain confidentiality, non-competition and
non-solicitation clauses which provide, among other things, that the Executive
is not to (i) render services to a competitor of MCI or its affiliates or (ii)
solicit or offer employment to any employee of MCI or its affiliates during the
Executive's employment with MCI or its affiliates and, thereafter, for a period
expiring on the earlier of (x) the first anniversary of the Executive's
termination of employment and (y) the expiration of the term of the Employment
Agreement.
RETENTION BONUSES FOR SENIOR EXECUTIVES. In connection with the MCI/WorldCom
Merger, a cash retention award pool (the "Executive Retention Program") of up
to approximately $170 million will be created to provide retention incentives
for MCI senior executives, including Messrs. Roberts, Taylor and Price, who
will receive $10.5 million, $9.5 million and $9.0 million, respectively. These
bonuses generally replace the Senior Retention ISUs granted pursuant to the
BT/MCI Merger Agreement dated November 3, 1996, which were discontinued when
that agreement was terminated. The schedule of payments of such incentives will
be subject to the approval of WorldCom, which will not be unreasonably
withheld; and WorldCom will be informed as to the other aspects of the
incentives.
DISCRETIONARY RETENTION BONUS POOL. In addition, a cash retention pool of up
to $150 million has been created for post- MCI/WorldCom Merger retention; such
pool will be allocated in consultation with WorldCom.
DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE. Pursuant to the
MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, from and after the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time,
the surviving corporation in the MCI/WorldCom Merger is to cause to be
maintained in effect in its certificate of incorporation and bylaws (i) for a
period of six years after the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time, the current
provisions regarding indemnification of officers and directors contained in the
MCI Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the "MCI Restated Certificate of
Incorporation") and the MCI Bylaws (the "MCI Bylaws") and (ii) for a period of
six years, the current policies of directors' and officers' liability insurance
and fiduciary liability insurance maintained by MCI with respect to claims
arising from facts or events that occurred on or before the MCI/WorldCom
Effective Time, except that in no event is the MCI/WorldCom surviving
corporation to be required to expend in any one year an amount in excess of
200% of the annual premiums currently paid by MCI for such insurance, and, if
the annual premiums of such insurance coverage exceed such amount, the
MCI/WorldCom surviving corporation is to obtain a policy with the greatest
coverage available for a cost not exceeding such amount.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS; MANAGEMENT. Pursuant to the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement,
WorldCom originally agreed that the WorldCom Board, as of the MCI/WorldCom
Effective Time, shall consist of fifteen members, eight of whom shall be
designated by WorldCom from among the directors of WorldCom, five of whom shall
be designated by MCI from among the directors of MCI and two of whom shall be
directors designated by WorldCom from among pending acquisitions of WorldCom;
provided that the persons designated by each party shall be reasonably
acceptable to the other party. See, however, Item 10. "Directors and Executive
Officers of the Registrant." As of the date hereof, the WorldCom Board is
composed of eleven directors. WorldCom has further agreed to cause Bert C.
Roberts, Jr. to be appointed Chairman of MCI WorldCom, and to cause the senior
management of MCI WorldCom to be as previously agreed between the parties.
Pursuant to the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, Bernard J. Ebbers will be the
President and Chief Executive Officer of MCI WorldCom. In addition, Gerald H.
Taylor, currently Chief Executive Officer of MCI, will become President and
Chief Executive Officer of MCI WorldCom International, responsible for all
strategy, operations, and ventures outside of the U.S.; Timothy F. Price,
currently President and Chief Operating Officer of MCI, will become President
and Chief Executive Officer of MCI WorldCom's U.S. communications operating
subsidiary. The U.S. operating
41
46
subsidiary will be responsible for the communications business in the United
States, including all sales and marketing, customer service, product
development, and network operations. John W. Sidgmore, currently Vice Chairman
and Chief Operations Officer of WorldCom, will become President and Chief
Executive Officer of Internet & Technology, responsible for information
technology (IT) services, including MCI Systemhouse, architecture, design, and
planning for the global network, and managing MCI WorldCom's largest commercial
Internet relationships; and Scott D. Sullivan will continue to serve as Chief
Financial Officer of MCI WorldCom. See "Item 10. Directors and Executive
Officers of the Registrant - Directors and Management of MCI WorldCom Following
the MCI/WorldCom Merger."
CERTAIN RELATED TRANSACTIONS
WorldCom and MCI have entered into certain interconnection or other service
agreements with each other and certain of their affiliates in the ordinary
course of their businesses, which agreements have been amended from time to
time. In fiscal 1997, fiscal 1996 and fiscal 1995, MCI and its subsidiaries
and WorldCom and its subsidiaries have engaged in transactions aggregating
approximately $655 million, $558 million, and $273 million, respectively.
OTHER
Certain other interests of other MCI executives and employees are described in
"The MCI/WorldCom Merger - Interests of Certain Persons in the MCI/WorldCom
Merger" contained in WorldCom's Current Report on Form 8-K/A-1 dated November
9, 1997 (filed January 27, 1998), which is incorporated by reference herein.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON
FORM 8-K
(a) 1 and 2
Financial statements and financial statement schedule
See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement
Schedule.
(a) 3
Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K
See Exhibit Index for the exhibits filed as part of or incorporated by
reference into this Report. There are omitted from the exhibits filed with or
incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K certain
promissory notes and other instruments and agreements with respect to long-term
debt of the Company, none of which authorizes securities in a total amount that
exceeds 10% of the total assets of the Company on a consolidated basis.
Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, the Company hereby agrees to
furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission copies of any such omitted
promissory notes or other instruments or agreements as the Commission requests.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
(i) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 1, 1997 (filed
October 2, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's intention to commence an
offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of MCI.
(ii) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 3, 1997 (filed
October 3, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events, the
Company's press release dated October 3, 1997.
(iii) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 9, 1997 (filed
October 10, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 9, 1997.
(iv) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 10, 1997 (filed
October 14, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 10, 1997.
42
47
(v) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 14, 1997 (filed
October 14, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 14, 1997.
(vi) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 15, 1997 (filed
October 16, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 15, 1997.
(vii) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 16, 1997 (filed
October 17, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 16, 1997.
(viii) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 23, 1997 (filed
October 23, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 23, 1997.
(ix) Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 31, 1997 (filed
November 3, 1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to the Company's press release dated
October 31, 1997.
(x) Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 9, 1997 (filed
November 12,1997) reporting under Item 5, Other Events,
information related to WorldCom's announcement that the
Company had entered into a Merger Agreement with MCI.
(xi) Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated August 25, 1996 (filed
December 19, 1997) reporting information required to be
reported under Item 7(a) Financial Statements of Business
Acquired, the following financial statements of MFS
Communications, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
Report of Independent Public Accountants
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the period
ended December 31, 1996 Consolidated Balance Sheet as
of December 31, 1996 Consolidated Statement of
Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the period ended
December 31, 1996
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the period
ended December 31, 1996
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Reports of Independent Public Accountants
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three
years ended December 31, 1996
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 1995
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders'
Equity for the three years ended December 31, 1996
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the three
years ended December 31, 1996
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
43
48
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
WorldCom, Inc.
By: /s/ Scott D. Sullivan
-------------------------------------
Date: March 27, 1998 Scott D. Sullivan,
Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Name Title Date
---- ----- ----
Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
James C. Allen
/s/ Carl J. Aycock Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Carl J. Aycock
/s/ Max E. Bobbitt Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Max E. Bobbitt
Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Stephen M. Case
Director, President
/s/ Bernard J. Ebbers and Chief Executive March 27, 1998
- ----------------------------------- Officer
Bernard J. Ebbers
Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Francesco Galesi
/s/ Stiles A. Kellett, Jr. Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Stiles A. Kellett, Jr.
Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
John A. Porter
/s/ John W. Sidgmore Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
John W. Sidgmore
Director,
Principal Financial
/s/ Scott D. Sullivan Officer and Principal March 27, 1998
- ----------------------------------- Accounting Officer
Scott D. Sullivan
/s/ Lawrence C. Tucker Director March 27, 1998
- -----------------------------------
Lawrence C. Tucker
44
49
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Page
----
Report of independent public accountants F-2
Consolidated financial statements-
Consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 1997
and 1996 F-3
Consolidated statements of operations for the
three years ended December 31, 1997 F-4
Consolidated statements of shareholders' investment
for the three years ended December 31, 1997 F-5
Consolidated statements of cash flows for the
three years ended December 31, 1997 F-6
Notes to consolidated financial statements F-7
Financial statement schedule:
II. Valuation and qualifying accounts F-26
Schedules other than the schedule listed above have been omitted because of the
absence of conditions under which they are required or because the information
is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
F-1
50
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Shareholders of WorldCom, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of WorldCom, Inc.
(a Georgia corporation) and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and
the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' investment and
cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31,
1997. 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 in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. 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. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of WorldCom, Inc. and Subsidiaries
as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their operations and their
cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31,
1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
Our audit was made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic financial
statements taken as a whole. The schedule listed in the Index to Financial
Statements and Financial Statement Schedule is presented for purposes of
complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and is not a
required part of the basic financial statements. This schedule has been
subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our audit of the basic financial
statements and, in our opinion, fairly states in all material respects the
financial data required to be set forth therein in relation to the basic
financial statements taken as a whole.
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Jackson, Mississippi,
February 19, 1998 (except with
respect to the matter discussed
in Note 12, as to which the date
is March 11, 1998).
F-2
51
WORLDCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Share Data)
December 31,
------------------------------
1997 1996
------------ ------------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 66,904 $ 222,729
Marketable securities 746 760,260
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for bad debts of $200,211 and $135,696 at
December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively 1,199,169 999,962
Income taxes receivable 5,422 10,820
Deferred tax asset -- 276
Other current assets 410,391 223,842
------------ ------------
Total current assets 1,682,632 2,217,889
------------ ------------
Property and equipment:
Transmission equipment 3,573,973 2,371,376
Communications equipment 2,404,904 1,296,723
Furniture, fixtures and other 807,798 614,476
------------ ------------
6,786,675 4,282,575
Less - accumulated depreciation (793,689) (385,451)
------------ ------------
5,992,986 3,897,124
------------ ------------
Goodwill and other intangible assets 13,689,927 13,126,855
Deferred tax asset 404,864 392,634
Other assets 619,144 328,695
------------ ------------
$ 22,389,553 $ 19,963,197
============ ============
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' INVESTMENT
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt and current maturities of long-term debt $ 10,605 $ 22,424
Accounts payable 463,340 588,738
Accrued line costs 861,830 649,324
Accrued interest 116,978 29,519
Deferred tax liability 59,442 --
Other current liabilities 535,661 651,484
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 2,047,856 1,941,489
------------ ------------
Long-term liabilities, less current portion:
Long-term debt 6,527,207 4,803,581
Other liabilities 304,625 258,151
------------ ------------
Total long-term liabilities 6,831,832 5,061,732
------------ ------------
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' investment:
Series A preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; authorized, issued and
outstanding: 94,992 shares in 1997 and 1996 (variable liquidation preference) 1 1
Series B preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; authorized, issued and
outstanding: 12,421,858 shares in 1997 and 12,699,948 shares in 1996 (liquidation
preference of $1.00 per share plus unpaid dividends) 124 127
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; authorized: 34,905,008 shares in
1997 and 1996; none issued -- --
Common stock, par value $.01 per share; authorized: 2,500,000,000 shares; issued
and outstanding: 909,201,028 shares in 1997 and 885,080,264 shares in 1996 9,092 8,851
Additional paid-in capital 15,043,262 14,855,881
Unrealized holding gain on marketable equity securities 33,883 28,832
Retained earnings (deficit) (1,576,497) (1,933,716)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders' investment 13,509,865 12,959,976
------------ ------------
$ 22,389,553 $ 19,963,197
============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-3
52
WORLDCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
For the Year Ended December 31,
---------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
Revenues $ 7,351,354 $ 4,485,130 $ 3,696,345
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating expenses:
Line costs 3,791,599 2,457,102 2,030,635
Selling, general and administrative 1,540,428 828,673 677,895
Depreciation and amortization 920,721 303,301 312,671
Provision to reduce carrying value of certain assets -- 402,000 --
Restructuring and other charges -- 198,148 --
Charge for in-process research and development -- 2,140,000 --
----------- ----------- -----------
Total 6,252,748 6,329,224 3,021,201
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating income (loss) 1,098,606 (1,844,094) 675,144
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (319,748) (221,801) (249,216)
Miscellaneous 20,415 6,479 11,801
----------- ----------- -----------
Income (loss) before income taxes and
extraordinary item 799,273 (2,059,416) 437,729
Provision for income taxes 415,621 129,528 171,458
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item 383,652 (2,188,944) 266,271
Extraordinary item (net of income taxes of
$15,621 in 1996) -- (24,434) --
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) 383,652 (2,213,378) 266,271
Preferred dividend requirement 26,433 860 18,191
Special dividend payment to Series 1 preferred
shareholder -- -- 15,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders $ 357,219 $(2,214,238) $ 233,080
=========== =========== ===========
Earnings (loss) per common share
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item:
Basic $ 0.40 $ (5.50) $ 0.67
Diluted 0.40 (5.50) 0.64
Extraordinary item -- (0.06) --
Net income (loss):
Basic 0.40 (5.56) 0.67
Diluted 0.40 (5.56) 0.64
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-4
53
WORLDCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' INVESTMENT
For the Three Years Ended December 31, 1997
(In Thousands)
Series A Series B Series 1 Preferred Series 2 Preferred
Preferred Stock Preferred Stock Stock Stock
--------------- ----------------- ------------------ ---------------------
Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1994 -- $ -- -- $ -- 10,897 $ 109 2,000 $ 20
Exercise of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Conversion of Series 1 Preferred Stock -- -- -- -- (10,897) (109) -- --
Conversion of Series 2 Preferred Stock -- -- -- -- -- -- (756) (8)
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Cash for fractional shares -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Shares issued for acquisitions -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Net income -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
--- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------- -------
Balances, December 31, 1995 -- -- -- -- -- -- 1,244 12
Exercise of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Conversion of Series 2 Preferred Stock -- -- -- -- -- -- (1,244) (12)
Conversion of IDB convertible notes -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Net change in unrealized holding gain on
marketable equity securities -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Shares issued for acquisitions 95 1 12,700 127 -- -- -- --
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
--- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------- -------
Balances, December 31, 1996 95 1 12,700 127 -- -- -- --
Exercise of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Conversion of Series B Preferred Stock -- -- (278) (3) -- -- -- --
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Net change in unrealized holding gain on
marketable equity securities -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Foreign Currency Adjustment -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Shares issued for acquisitions -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Net income -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
--- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------- -------
Balances, December 31, 1997 95 $ 1 12,422 $ 124 -- $ -- -- $ --
=== ======= ====== ======= ======= ======= ======== =======
Common Stock Additional Retained
---------------------------- Paid-in Unrealized Earnings
Shares Amount Capital Holding Gain (Deficit)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1994 319,285 $ 3,192 $ 1,778,191 $ -- $ 47,442
Exercise of stock options 18,966 190 90,342 -- --
Conversion of Series 1 Preferred Stock 43,754 438 (329) -- --
Conversion of Series 2 Preferred Stock 3,200 32 (24) -- --
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- 22,280 -- --
Cash for fractional shares -- -- (15) -- --
Shares issued for acquisitions 1,280 13 12,837 -- --
Net income -- -- -- -- 266,271
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- (33,191)
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Balances, December 31, 1995 386,485 3,865 1,903,282 -- 280,522
Exercise of stock options 6,416 64 39,695 -- --
Conversion of Series 2 Preferred Stock 5,266 53 (40) -- --
Conversion of IDB convertible notes 10,266 103 190,971 -- --
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- 32,726 -- --
Net change in unrealized holding gain on
marketable equity securities -- -- -- 28,832 --
Shares issued for acquisitions 476,647 4,766 12,689,247 -- --
Net loss -- -- -- -- (2,213,378)
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- (860)
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Balances, December 31, 1996 885,080 8,851 14,855,881 28,832 (1,933,716)
Exercise of stock options 21,197 212 126,329 -- --
Conversion of Series B Preferred Stock 27 -- 3 -- --
Tax adjustment resulting from exercise
of stock options -- -- 24,105 -- --
Net change in unrealized holding gain on
marketable equity securities -- -- -- 5,051 --
Foreign Currency Adjustment -- -- (24,303) -- --
Shares issued for acquisitions 2,897 29 61,427 -- --
Net income -- -- -- -- 383,652
Cash dividends on preferred
stock -- -- -- -- (26,433)
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Balances, December 31, 1997 909,201 $ 9,092 $ 15,043,262 $ 33,883 $(1,576,497)
=========== =========== ============ ============ ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-5
54
WORLDCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In Thousands)
For the Year Ended December 31,
---------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss) $ 383,652 $(2,213,378) $ 266,271
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Extraordinary item -- 24,434 --
Provision to reduce carrying value of certain assets -- 402,000 --
Restructuring and other charges -- 198,148 --
Charge for in-process research and development -- 2,140,000 --
Depreciation and amortization 920,721 303,301 312,671
Provision for losses on accounts receivable 107,327 57,678 40,250
Provision for deferred income taxes 368,043 58,449 171,425
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effect of business
combinations:
Accounts receivable (422,867) (206,507) (83,808)
Income taxes, net 29,503 40,831 (6,351)
Other current assets (208,892) (76,568) 1,003
Accrued line costs 97,463 (970) 63,830
Shareholder litigation reserve -- -- (75,000)
Accounts payable and other current liabilities (10,138) 79,567 (63,165)
Other 53,424 (8,867) (10,469)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 1,318,236 798,118 616,657
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures (2,644,915) (657,061) (359,281)
Sale of short-term investments, net 760,304 -- 1,000
Acquisitions and related costs (1,090,665) 116,053 (2,766,355)
Increase in intangible assets (117,471) (60,056) (46,062)
Proceeds from disposition of long-term assets 93,165 21,962 34,970
Increase in other assets (236,290) (131,450) (8,171)
Decrease in other liabilities (41,576) (42,284) (83,553)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (3,277,448) (752,836) (3,227,452)
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings 1,848,750 113,000 2,712,159
Principal payments on debt (145,471) (16,696) (138,276)
Common stock issuance 123,133 39,759 90,532
Dividends paid on preferred stock (26,433) (860) (33,191)
Other 3,408 -- 1,828
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 1,803,387 135,203 2,633,052
----------- ----------- -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (155,825) 180,485 22,257
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 222,729 42,244 19,987
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 66,904 $ 222,729 $ 42,244
=========== =========== ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-6
55
WORLDCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1997
(1) THE COMPANY AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES -
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION:
WorldCom, Inc., a Georgia corporation ("WorldCom" or the "Company"), is one of
the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, serving local,
long distance and Internet customers domestically and internationally. The
Company provides telecommunications services to business, government,
telecommunications companies and consumer customers, through its networks of
fiber optic cables, digital microwave, and fixed and transportable satellite
earth stations. WorldCom provides products and services including: switched and
dedicated long distance and local products, dedicated and dial-up Internet
access, resale cellular services, 800 services, calling cards, domestic and
international private lines, broadband data services, debit cards, conference
calling, advanced billing systems, enhanced fax and data connections, high speed
data communications, facilities management, local access to long distance
companies, local access to ATM-based backbone service, web server hosting and
integration services and interconnection via network access points ("NAPs") to
Internet service providers ("ISPs").
THE MERGERS:
On December 31, 1996, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
MFS Communications Company, Inc. ("MFS") in a transaction accounted for as a
purchase. The excess purchase price over net tangible assets acquired has been
allocated to in-process research and development projects (See Note 3),
goodwill, developed technology and assembled workforce. Through this purchase,
the Company acquired local network access facilities via digital fiber optic
cable networks installed in and around major United States cities, and in
several major European cities. The Company also acquired a network platform,
which consists of Company-owned transmission and switching facilities, and
network capacity leased from other carriers primarily in the United States and
Western Europe.
As a result of the merger (the "MFS Merger"), each share of MFS common stock was
converted into the right to receive 2.1 shares of WorldCom common stock (the
"Common Stock") or approximately 471.0 million WorldCom common shares in the
aggregate. Each share of MFS Series A 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock
("MFS Series A Preferred Stock") was converted into the right to receive one
share of Series A 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock of WorldCom
("WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock") or 94,992 shares of WorldCom Series A
Preferred Stock in the aggregate. Each share of MFS Series B Convertible
Preferred Stock was converted into the right to receive one share of Series B
Convertible Preferred Stock of WorldCom ("WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock") or
approximately 12.7 million shares of WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock in the
aggregate. In addition, each depositary share representing 1/100th of a share of
MFS Series A Preferred Stock was exchanged for a depositary share representing
1/100th of a share of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock.
On August 12, 1996, MFS acquired UUNET Technologies, Inc. ("UUNET") through a
merger of a subsidiary of MFS with and into UUNET (the "UUNET Acquisition").
UUNET is a leading worldwide provider of a comprehensive range of Internet
access options, applications, and consulting services to businesses,
professionals and on-line services providers.
On December 30, 1994, WorldCom, through a wholly owned subsidiary, merged with
IDB Communications Group, Inc. ("IDB"), and, in connection therewith, issued
approximately 71.8 million shares of Common Stock, for all of the outstanding
shares of IDB common stock (the "IDB Merger"). In addition, WorldCom assumed, on
a subordinated basis, jointly and severally with IDB, the obligations of IDB to
pay the principal of and interest on $195.5 million 5% convertible subordinated
notes due 2003, issued by IDB. In 1996, WorldCom exercised its option to redeem
all of the outstanding IDB notes. A majority of the holders of the IDB notes
elected to convert their notes into Common Stock prior to the redemption date,
resulting in the issuance of approximately 10.3 million shares of Common Stock.
The IDB Merger was accounted for as a pooling-of-interests.
On September 15, 1993, a three-way merger occurred whereby (i) Metromedia
Communications Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("MCC"), merged with and into
Resurgens Communications Group, Inc., a Georgia corporation ("Resurgens"), and
(ii) LDDS Communications, Inc., a Tennessee corporation ("LDDS-TN"), merged with
and into Resurgens (the "Prior Mergers"). The Prior Mergers were accounted for
as a purchase.
At the time of the Prior Mergers, the name of Resurgens, the legal survivor, was
changed to LDDS Communications, Inc., and the separate corporate existences of
LDDS-TN and MCC terminated. For accounting purposes, however, LDDS-TN was the
survivor because the former shareholders of LDDS-TN acquired majority ownership
of the Company. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, all historical
information presented herein reflects the operations of LDDS-TN. At the annual
meeting of
F-7
56
shareholders held May 25, 1995, shareholders of LDDS Communications, Inc. voted
to change the name of the Company to WorldCom, Inc., effective immediately.
Information in this document has also been revised to reflect the stock splits
of the Company's Common Stock.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION:
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have
been eliminated in consolidation. Investments in joint ventures and other equity
investments in which the Company owns a 20% to 50% ownership interest, are
accounted for by the equity method. Investments of less than 20% ownership are
recorded at cost.
The Company serves as a holding company for its subsidiaries, the operations of
which are organized along the Company's business lines. References herein to the
Company include the Company and its subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise
requires.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:
The carrying amounts for cash, marketable securities, accounts receivable, notes
receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate their fair
value. The fair value of long-term debt is determined based on quoted market
rates or the cash flows from such financial instruments discounted at the
Company's estimated current interest rate to enter into similar financial
instruments. At December 31, 1997, the fair value of the Company's fixed rate
long-term debt is as follows (in thousands):
7.55% Senior Notes Due 2004 $ 627,372
7.75% Senior Notes Due 2007 1,173,304
7.75% Senior Notes Due 2027 329,637
Senior Discount Notes Due 2006 716,727
Senior Discount Notes Due 2004 720,922
The recorded amounts for all other long-term debt of the Company approximate
fair values.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
The Company considers cash in banks and short-term investments with original
maturities of three months or less as cash and cash equivalents. The Company has
classified all marketable securities other than cash equivalents as
available-for-sale. At December 31, 1997, the amortized cost of the Company's
marketable securities equals the estimated fair value and contractually mature
within one year from December 31, 1997.
Sales activity in available-for-sale securities for the year ended December 31,
1997 included gross realized gains of $1.4 million and gross realized losses of
$0.5 million on the total proceeds received of $760.3 million. There was no
sales activity in available-for-sale securities for the twelve months ended
December 31, 1996 or 1995.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided for
financial reporting purposes using the straight-line method over the following
estimated useful lives:
Transmission equipment 5 to 45 years
Communications equipment 5 to 20 years
Furniture, fixtures and other 4 to 30 years
Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Replacements and betterments
are capitalized. The cost and related reserves of assets sold or retired are
removed from the accounts, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in
results of operations.
The Company constructs certain of its own transmission systems and related
facilities. Internal costs directly related to the construction of such
facilities, including interest and salaries of certain employees, are
capitalized. Such internal costs were $194.5 million ($78.1 million in
interest), $28.7 million ($7.6 million in interest), and $14.7 million ($4.9
million in interest), in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
F-8
57
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS:
The major classes of intangible assets are summarized below (in thousands):
December 31,
--------------------------------
Amortization Period 1997 1996
------------------- --------------- --------------
Goodwill 5 to 40 years $ 13,175,289 $ 12,777,474
Developed technology 5 years 400,000 400,000
Other intangibles 5 to 10 years 906,559 307,083
------------ ------------
14,481,848 13,484,557
Less accumulated amortization 791,921 357,702
------------ ------------
$ 13,689,927 $ 13,126,855
============ ============
Intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method for the periods
noted above.
Goodwill is recognized for the excess of the purchase price of the various
business combinations over the value of the identifiable net tangible and
intangible assets acquired. See Note 2. Realization of acquisition-related
intangibles, including goodwill, is periodically assessed by the management of
the Company based on the current and expected future profitability and cash
flows of acquired companies and their contribution to the overall operations of
WorldCom.
At December 31, 1997, other intangibles include an alternative transaction fee
of $450 million and expenses of $15 million paid by WorldCom to British
Telecommunications plc ("BT") in accordance with the prior merger agreement
between BT and MCI Communications Corporation ("MCI"). See Note 12.
Also included in other intangibles are costs incurred to develop software for
internal use. Such costs were $91.4 million, $42.5 million and $38.3 million for
the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
UNREALIZED HOLDING GAIN ON MARKETABLE EQUITY SECURITIES:
The Company's equity investment in certain publicly traded companies is
classified as available-for-sale securities. Accordingly, these investments are
included in other assets at their fair value of approximately $113.2 million and
$105.1 million at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The unrealized
holding gain on these marketable equity securities, net of taxes, is included as
a component of shareholders' investment in the accompanying consolidated
financial statements. As of December 31, 1997, the gross unrealized holding gain
on these securities was $54.3 million.
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
At December 31, 1997 and 1996, other long-term liabilities includes $266.1
million and $207.1 million, respectively, related to estimated costs of
unfavorable commitments of acquired entities, and other non-recurring costs
arising from various acquisitions and mergers. See Note 2.
RECOGNITION OF REVENUES:
The Company records revenues for telecommunications services at the time of
customer usage. The Company also performs systems integration services
consisting of design and installation of transmission equipment and systems for
its customers. Revenues and related costs for these services are recorded under
the percentage of completion method.
ACCOUNTING FOR INTERNATIONAL LONG DISTANCE TRAFFIC:
The Company enters into operating agreements with telecommunications carriers in
foreign countries under which international long distance traffic is both
delivered and received. The terms of most switched voice operating agreements,
as well as established Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") policy, require
that inbound switched voice traffic from the foreign carrier to the United
States be routed to United States international carriers, like WorldCom, in
proportion to the percentage of United States outbound traffic routed by that
United States international carrier to the foreign carrier. Mutually exchanged
traffic between the Company and foreign carriers is settled in cash through a
formal settlement policy that generally extends over a six-month period at an
agreed upon settlement rate. Although the Company can estimate the amount of
inbound traffic it will receive, it generally
F-9
58
must wait up to six months before it actually receives the inbound traffic.
WorldCom records the inbound traffic as revenue when it is received.
EXTRAORDINARY ITEMS:
In the second quarter of 1996, the Company recorded charges for extraordinary
items totaling $24.4 million, net of income tax benefit of $15.6 million. The
items consisted of $4.2 million in connection with the Company's debt
refinancing, and $20.2 million related to a write-off of deferred international
costs. Previously, a portion of the outbound call fee due the foreign carrier
was deferred and accounted for as a cost attributable to the revenue associated
with the inbound call. Currently, the outbound call fee due the foreign carrier
is expensed as incurred. This change in accounting for international line costs
was immaterial to the results of operations.
LINE COSTS:
Line costs primarily include all payments to local exchange carriers ("LECs"),
interexchange carriers and post telephone and telegraph administrations
primarily for access and transport charges.
INCOME TAXES:
The Company recognizes current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities
based upon all events that have been recognized in the consolidated financial
statements as measured by the provisions of the enacted tax laws. See Note 10.
EARNINGS PER SHARE:
Earnings per share are calculated in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128 "Earnings Per Share." The following is a
reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted
per share computations (in thousands, except per share data):
For the Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
Basic
Net income (loss) before extraordinary items $ 383,652 $(2,188,944) $ 266,271
Preferred stock dividends (26,433) (860) (33,191)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders
before extraordinary items $ 357,219 $(2,189,804) $ 233,080
=========== =========== ===========
Weighted average shares outstanding 898,889 397,890 346,666
=========== =========== ===========
Basic earnings (loss) per share
before extraordinary items $ 0.40 $ (5.50) $ 0.67
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders
before extraordinary items $ 357,219 $(2,189,804) $ 233,080
Add back:
Preferred stock dividends 26,433 -- 18,191
Interest on 5% convertible notes, net of taxes -- -- 5,963
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders $ 383,652 $(2,189,804) $ 257,234
=========== =========== ===========
Weighted average shares outstanding 898,889 397,890 346,666
Common stock equivalents 27,000 -- 9,967
Common stock issuable upon conversion of:
Preferred stock dividends 33,927 -- 35,674
5% convertible notes -- -- 10,270
----------- ----------- -----------
Diluted shares outstanding 959,816 397,890 402,577
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted earnings (loss) per share before extraordinary items $ 0.40 $ (5.50) $ 0.64
=========== =========== ===========
F-10
59
STOCK SPLITS:
On May 23, 1996, the Board of Directors authorized a 2-for-1 stock split in the
form of a 100% stock dividend which was distributed on July 3, 1996 to
shareholders of record on June 6, 1996. All per share data and numbers of common
shares have been retroactively restated to reflect these stock splits.
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK:
A portion of the Company's revenues is derived from services provided to others
in the telecommunications industry, mainly resellers of long distance
telecommunications service and Internet online services. As a result, the
Company has some concentration of credit risk among its customer base. The
Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its larger customers' financial
condition and, at times, requires collateral from its customers to support its
receivables, usually in the form of assignment of its customers' receivables to
the Company in the event of nonpayment.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS:
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No.
130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." This statement establishes standards for
reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components (revenues,
expenses, gains and losses) in a full set of general purpose financial
statements. This statement requires that all items that are required to be
recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be
reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as
other financial statements. This statement is effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 1997. WorldCom intends to comply with the
provisions of this standard in 1998.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information." This statement establishes standards for
the way that public business enterprises report information about operating
segments in annual financial statements and requires that those enterprises
report selected information about operating segments in interim financial
reports issued to shareholders. It also establishes standards for related
disclosures about products and services, geographic areas and major customers.
This statement is effective for financial statements for periods beginning after
December 15, 1997. WorldCom intends to comply with the provisions of this
standard in 1998.
USE OF ESTIMATES:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles 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 and
revenues and expenses during the period reported. Actual results could differ
from those estimates. Estimates are used when accounting for long-term
contracts, allowance for doubtful accounts, accrued line costs, depreciation and
amortization, taxes, restructuring reserves and contingencies.
RECLASSIFICATIONS:
Certain consolidated financial statement amounts have been reclassified for
consistent presentation.
(2) BUSINESS COMBINATIONS -
On December 31, 1996, WorldCom completed the MFS Merger. The MFS Merger was
accounted for as a purchase. On January 5, 1995, WorldCom completed the
acquisition of Williams Telecommunications Group, Inc. ("WilTel"), a subsidiary
of The Williams Companies, Inc., for approximately $2.5 billion in cash (the
"WilTel Acquisition"). Through this purchase, the Company acquired a nationwide
transmission network of approximately 11,000 miles of fiber optic cable and
digital microwave facilities.
The Company has acquired other telecommunications companies offering similar or
complementary services to those offered by the Company. Such acquisitions have
been accomplished through the purchase of the outstanding stock or assets of the
acquired entity for cash, notes, shares of the Company's common stock, or a
combination thereof. The cash portion of acquisition costs has generally been
financed through the Company's bank credit facilities. See Note 4.
Most of the acquisitions have been accounted for as purchases and resulted in an
excess of the purchase costs over the net tangible assets acquired. These costs,
composed primarily of goodwill, are amortized over 5 to 40 years using the
straight-line method. The results of those purchased businesses have been
included since the dates of acquisition. Business combinations which have
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60
been accounted for as poolings-of-interests have been included in all periods
presented. The table below sets forth information concerning recent acquisitions
which were accounted for as purchases.
Purchase Price
--------------------------------
Shares Issued
-----------------
Acquired Entity Acquisition Date Cash Number Value Goodwill
- --------------- ---------------- ---- ------ ----- --------
(In thousands)
WilTel January 1995 $2,500,000 -- -- $2,216,909
MFS December 1996 -- * * 8,912,345
- ------------
* See the third paragraph of Note 1 for a description of the common and
preferred shares.
In addition to those acquisitions listed above, the Company or its predecessors
completed smaller acquisitions during the three years ended December 31, 1997.
See Note 12, "Subsequent Events" for information regarding mergers consummated
subsequent to December 31, 1997 as well as information related to the pending
merger with MCI.
The following unaudited pro forma combined results of operations for the Company
assume that the MFS Merger and the UUNET Acquisition were completed on January
1, 1995 (in millions, except per share data):
For the Year Ended December 31,
-------------------------------
1996 1995
---- ----
Revenues $5,635 $4,324
Loss before extraordinary item (2,747) (273)
Loss applicable to common shareholders (2,771) (273)
Loss per common share:
Loss before extraordinary item ($3.16) ($0.37)
Net loss ($3.19) ($0.37)
These pro forma amounts represent the historical operating results of these
acquired entities combined with those of the Company with appropriate
adjustments which give effect to a research and development charge of $2.14
billion, amortization and the common shares issued. These pro forma amounts are
not necessarily indicative of operating results which would have occurred if MFS
and UUNET had been operated by current management during the periods presented
because these amounts do not reflect full network optimization and the
synergistic effect on operating, selling, general and administrative expenses.
(3) RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES -
In the fourth quarter of 1996, the Company recorded charges for employee
severance, employee compensation charges, alignment charges and costs to exit
unfavorable telecommunications contracts.
The following table reflects the components of the significant items shown as
restructuring and other charges for the year ended December 31, 1996 (in
thousands):
F-12
61
Severance and other employee related costs $ 57,916
Costs to exit unfavorable telecommunications contracts 134,866
Other 5,366
----------
$ 198,148
==========
As of December 31, 1997 and 1996, the accompanying consolidated financial
statements reflect $1.7 million and $167.2 million, respectively, in other
current liabilities and $2.0 million and $2.5 million, respectively, in other
long-term liabilities, in connection with the restructuring and other charges.
PROVISION TO REDUCE THE CARRYING VALUE OF CERTAIN ASSETS:
In the second quarter of 1996, the Company incurred non-cash charges related to
a write-down in the carrying value of certain assets, including goodwill and
equipment. Because of events resulting from the passage of the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the "Telecom Act"), and changes in circumstances
impacting certain non-core operations, management estimates of the Company's
fair value of operating assets within its core and non-core businesses resulted
in a non-cash charge of $344 million after-tax. On a pre-tax basis, the
write-down was $402 million and included $139 million for network facilities and
$263 million for non-core businesses, primarily operator services goodwill. Fair
value of the non-core business was determined by estimating the present value of
future cash flows to be generated from those operations while the majority of
the network facilities were recorded at net salvage value due to anticipated
early disposal.
In connection with the signing of agreements to provide long distance
telecommunications services to certain local exchange carriers, and after the
successful assimilation of recent facilities-based acquisitions, WorldCom
evaluated the impact that the increased traffic volumes would have on the
Company's networks. This review resulted in the Company's current plans to
expand and upgrade its existing network switching, transmission and other
communications equipment. This capital project directly affected the estimated
useful lives of certain network facilities which resulted in replacement of
these facilities.
Additionally, due to the decreasing emphasis on operator services, including
non-renewal of existing long-term contracts, management adjusted the fair value
of this non-core business based upon its projections of future cash flow.
WorldCom completed the sale of its operator services division in the third
quarter of 1997 which comprised less than 3% of WorldCom's consolidated
revenues.
CHARGE FOR IN-PROCESS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT:
In the fourth quarter of 1996, the Company recorded a $2.14 billion charge for
in-process research and development related to the MFS Merger. The charge was
based upon a valuation analysis of the technologies of MFS' worldwide
information system, the Internet network expansion system of UUNET, and certain
other identified research and development projects purchased in the merger. At
the date of the MFS Merger, the technological feasibility of the acquired
technology had not yet been established and the technology had no future
alternative uses. The expense includes $1.6 billion associated with UUNET and
$0.54 billion related to MFS.
(4) LONG-TERM DEBT -
Long-term debt outstanding consists of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
------------------------------
1997 1996
------------ ------------
Credit facilities $ 3,133,250 $ 3,284,500
7.55% Senior Notes Due 2004 600,000 -
7.75% Senior Notes Due 2007 1,100,000 -
7.75% Senior Notes Due 2027 300,000 -
Senior Notes Due 2006 666,723 -
Senior Notes Due 2004 680,115 -
Senior Discount Notes Due 2006 - 674,520
Senior Discount Notes Due 2004 - 685,838
Other debt (maturing through 2006) 57,724 181,147
------------ ------------
6,537,812 4,826,005
Less: Short-term debt and current maturities 10,605 22,424
------------ ------------
$ 6,527,207 $ 4,803,581
============ ============
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62
On July 3, 1997, the Company replaced its $3.75 billion revolving credit
facility (the "Old Credit Facility") with $5.0 billion in new revolving credit
facilities which consist of a $3.75 billion Facility A Revolving Credit
Agreement (the "Facility A Loans") and a $1.25 billion Facility B Revolving
Credit and Term Loan Agreement (the "Facility B Loans," and together with the
Facility A Loans, the "New Credit Facilities"). The Facility A Loans have a
five-year term and may be extended for up to two successive one-year terms
thereafter to the extent of the committed amounts from those lenders consenting
thereto, with a requirement that lenders holding at least two-thirds of the
committed amounts consent. The Facility B Loans have a 364 day term, which may
be extended for up to two successive 364 day terms thereafter to the extent of
the committed amounts from those lenders consenting thereto, with a requirement
that lenders holding at least two-thirds of the committed amounts consent.
Alternatively, effective as of the end of such 364 day term, the Company may
elect to convert the Facility B Loans from revolving loans to term loans with a
maturity date corresponding with the maturity date then in effect with respect
to the Facility A Loans. The New Credit Facilities bear interest payable in
varying periods depending on the interest period, not to exceed six months, at
rates selected by the Company under the terms of the New Credit Facilities,
including a Base Rate or the Eurodollar Rate, plus applicable margin. The
applicable margin for a Eurodollar Rate borrowing varies from 0.30% to 0.75%
based upon the better of certain debt ratings or a specified financial test. At
December 31, 1997 and 1996, the weighted average interest rates under the
Company's credit facilities were 6.1% and 6.3%, respectively. The New Credit
Facilities are unsecured but include a negative pledge of the assets of the
Company and its subsidiaries (subject to certain exceptions). The New Credit
Facilities require compliance with certain financial and operating covenants
which limit, among other things, the incurrence of additional indebtedness by
the Company, investments by the Company, sales of assets and mergers and
dissolutions, which covenants are generally less restrictive than those
contained in the Old Credit Facility and which do not restrict distributions to
shareholders, provided the Company is not in default under the New Credit
Facilities. At December 31, 1997 the Company was in compliance with these
covenants. The current commitment fee for any unborrowed portion of Facility A
Loans and Facility B Loans are 0.15% and 0.10%, respectively.
Additionally, on April 1, 1997, the Company completed the public offering of
$2.0 billion principal amount of debt securities. The net proceeds of the
offering ($1.98 billion) were used to pay down commercial bank debt. The public
offering included the 7.55% Senior Notes Due 2004 (the "Notes Due 2004"), which
will mature on April 1, 2004, the 7.75% Senior Notes Due 2007 (the "Notes Due
2007"), which will mature on April 1, 2007, and the 7.75% Senior Notes Due 2027
(the "Notes Due 2027"), which will mature on April 1, 2027 (collectively, with
the Notes Due 2004 and the Notes Due 2007, the "Notes"). The Notes bear interest
payable semiannually on April 1 and October 1 of each year, with payments
commencing October 1, 1997, and limit the incurrence of liens. Each holder of
the Notes Due 2027 may require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of the
Notes Due 2027 owned by such holder on April 1, 2009, at a purchase price equal
to 100% of the principal amount thereof.
The Notes Due 2004 and the Notes Due 2007 are redeemable, as a whole or in part,
at the option of the Company, at any time or from time to time. The Notes Due
2027 will be redeemable, as a whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at
any time and from time to time beginning April 2, 2009. The redemption prices
for the three bond series equal the greater of (i) 100% of the principal amount
of the Notes to be redeemed or (ii) the sum of the present values of the
Remaining Scheduled Payments (as defined therein) discounted at the Treasury
Rate (as defined therein) plus 15 basis points for the Notes Due 2004 or plus 20
basis points for the Notes Due 2007 and the Notes Due 2027, plus in the case of
each of clause (i) and (ii) accrued interest to the date of redemption.
In July 1997, WorldCom offered to exchange (the "Exchange Offers") (i) $871.60
principal amount of its 9-3/8% Senior Notes due January 15, 2004 for each $1,000
principal amount at stated maturity, as of the date of their original issuance,
of outstanding 9- 3/8% Senior Discount Notes due January 15, 2004 of MFS,
properly tendered, and (ii) $737.91 principal amount of its 8-7/8% Senior Notes
due January 15, 2006 for each $1,000 principal amount at stated maturity, as of
the date of their original issuance, of outstanding 8-7/8% Senior Discount Notes
due January 15, 2006 of MFS (collectively the "MFS Notes"), properly tendered.
In connection with the Exchange Offers, the Company also solicited consents to
certain amendments to the respective indentures governing the MFS Notes (the
"Consent Solicitations").
In August 1997, the Company exercised its option to accept all MFS Notes validly
tendered in its on-going Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations. The Company
received requisite consents from holders of notes of MFS to allow the Company to
accept tenders prior to the expiration of the Exchange Offers and Consent
Solicitations and thereby effect certain amendments to the respective indentures
governing the MFS Notes. As of August 22, 1997, the Company exchanged
approximately $680.1 million and $666.7 million of its 9-3/8% Senior Notes due
January 15, 2004 and its 8-7/8% Senior Notes due January 15, 2006, respectively,
for MFS Notes validly tendered as of the close of business on August 19, 1997.
The aggregate principal repayments and reductions required in each of the years
ending December 31, 1998 through December 31, 2002 and thereafter for the
Company's long-term debt including capital leases is as follows (in thousands):
F-14
63
1998 $ 10,605
1999 12,386
2000 5,204
2001 4,966
2002 3,139,501
Thereafter 3,365,150
----------
$6,537,812
==========
(5) PREFERRED STOCK -
In connection with the MFS Merger, the Company issued 9,499,200 depositary
shares (the "Depositary Shares"), each representing 1/100th interest in a share
of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock. There is no established public trading
market for the WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock. The Depositary Shares are
traded on The Nasdaq National Market under the trading symbol "WCOMP."
Each Depositary Share is mandatorily convertible into 4.2 shares of Common Stock
on May 31, 1999 (the "Mandatory Conversion Date"). The Depositary Shares are
also convertible at the option of the holder at any time into 3.44274 shares of
Common Stock for each Depositary Share, plus payment of unpaid dividends.
The WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock (and the related Depositary Shares) are
not redeemable by WorldCom prior to May 31, 1998 (the "Initial Redemption
Date"). On or after the Initial Redemption Date and prior to the Mandatory
Conversion Date, WorldCom may redeem the WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock (and
thereby the Depositary Shares), in whole or in part. Upon any such redemption,
the holder of record of shares of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock will receive
shares of Common Stock equal to the call price of the WorldCom Series A
Preferred Stock in effect on the date of redemption (the "Call Price") divided
by the Current Market Price (as defined in the WorldCom Articles of
Incorporation) of the Common Stock. The Call Price of each WorldCom Series A
Preferred Share is (i) $3,417.00 ($34.170 per Depositary Share) on and after the
Initial Redemption Date through August 30, 1998, $3,400.25 ($34.003 per
Depositary Share) on and after August 31, 1998 through November 29, 1998,
$3,383.50 ($33.835 per Depositary Share) on and after November 30, 1998 through
February 27, 1999, $3,366.75 ($33.668 per Depositary Share) on and after
February 28, 1999 through April 29, 1999, and $3,350.00 ($33.500 per Depositary
Share) on and after April 30, 1999 until the Mandatory Conversion Date, plus
(ii) all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the date fixed for redemption.
The Depositary Shares are entitled to receive dividends, when, as and if
declared by the Board of Directors, accruing at the rate of $2.68 per share per
annum, payable quarterly in arrears on each February 28, May 31, August 31 and
November 30. Dividends are payable in cash or in shares of Common Stock, at the
election of the Company. The Company paid dividends during 1997 in cash, and
expects to continue to pay cash dividends on WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock.
The Depositary Shares are entitled to vote on the basis of 0.10 of a vote for
each Depositary Share held (equivalent to 10 votes for each share of WorldCom
Series A Preferred Stock). The WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock has a
liquidation preference equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (a) $3,350 per
share and (b) all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the date of
liquidation and (ii) the value of the shares of Common Stock into which such
Series A Preferred Stock are convertible on the date of liquidation.
The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into shares of Common Stock
at any time at a conversion rate of 0.0973912 shares of Common Stock for each
share of WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock (an effective initial conversion
price of $10.268 per share of Common Stock). Dividends on the WorldCom Series B
Preferred Stock accrue at the rate per share of $0.0775 per annum and are
payable in cash. Dividends will be paid only when, as and if declared by the
Board of Directors. The Company anticipates that dividends on the WorldCom
Series B Preferred Stock will not be declared but will continue to accrue. Upon
conversion, accrued but unpaid dividends are payable in cash or shares of Common
Stock at the Company's election.
The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is also redeemable at the option of the
Company at any time after September 30, 2001 at a redemption price of $1.00 per
share, plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The redemption price will be payable
in cash or shares of Common Stock at the Company's election.
The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to one vote per share with
respect to all matters. The WorldCom Series B Preferred Stock has a liquidation
preference of $1.00 per share plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to
the date of liquidation. There is no established market for the WorldCom Series
B Preferred Stock.
F-15
64
As a result of the Prior Mergers, 10,896,785 shares of the Series 1 Preferred
Stock were issued to Metromedia, the sole stockholder of MCC. In August 1995,
Metromedia converted its Series 1 Preferred Stock into 61.7 million shares of
WorldCom Common Stock. In connection with the preferred stock conversion,
WorldCom made a non-recurring payment of $15.0 million to Metromedia,
representing a discount to the minimum nominal dividends that would have been
payable on the Series 1 Preferred Stock prior to the September 15, 1996 optional
call date of approximately $26.6 million (which amount included an annual
dividend requirement of $24.5 million plus accrued dividends to such call date).
In 1996 the Company exercised its option to redeem its Series 2 Preferred Stock.
Prior to the redemption date, all of the remaining outstanding Series 2
Preferred Stock was converted into 5,266,160 shares of Common Stock.
(6) SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS PLAN -
On August 25, 1996, the Board of Directors of WorldCom declared a dividend of
one preferred share purchase right (a "Right") for each outstanding share of
Common Stock. Each Right entitles the registered holder to purchase from the
Company one one-thousandth of a share of Series 3 Junior Participating Preferred
Stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Junior Preferred Stock") of the Company at
an initial price of $160.00 per one one-thousandth of a share of Junior
Preferred Stock (the "Purchase Price"), subject to adjustment.
The Rights generally will be exercisable only after the close of business on the
tenth business day following the date of public announcement or the date on
which the Company first has notice or determines that a person or group of
affiliated or associated persons (an "Acquiring Person") has acquired, or
obtained the right to acquire, 15% or more of the outstanding shares of voting
stock of the Company without the prior express written consent of the Company,
by a person which, upon consummation, would result in such party's control of
15% or more of the Company's voting stock. The Rights will expire, if not
previously exercised, exchanged or redeemed, on September 6, 2001.
If any person or group acquires 15% or more of the Company's outstanding voting
stock without prior written consent of the Board of Directors, each Right,
except those held by such persons, would entitle each holder of a Right to
acquire such number of shares of the Company's Common Stock as shall equal the
result obtained by multiplying the then current Purchase Price by the number of
one one-thousandths of a share of Junior Preferred Stock for which a Right is
then exercisable and dividing that product by 50% of the then current per-share
market price of Common Stock.
If any person or group acquires more than 15% of the outstanding Common Stock
without prior written consent of the Board of Directors, each Right, except
those held by such persons, may be exchanged by the Board of Directors for one
share of Common Stock.
If the Company were acquired in a merger or other business combination
transaction where the Company is not the surviving corporation or where Common
Stock is exchanged or changed or 50% or more of the Company's assets or earnings
power is sold in one or several transactions without the prior written consent
of the Board of Directors, each Right would entitle the holders thereof (except
for the Acquiring Person) to receive such number of shares of the acquiring
company's common stock as shall be equal to the result obtained by multiplying
the then current Purchase Price by the number one one-thousandths of a share of
Junior Preferred Stock for which a Right is then exercisable and dividing that
product by 50% of the then current market price per share of the common stock of
the acquiring company on the date of such merger or other business combination
transaction.
At any time prior to the time an Acquiring Person becomes such, the Board of
Directors of the Company may redeem the Rights in whole, but not in part, at a
price of $.01 per Right (the "Redemption Price"). The redemption of the Rights
may be made effective at such time, on such basis and with such conditions as
the Board of Directors in its sole discretion may establish. Immediately upon
any redemption of the Rights, the right to exercise the Rights will terminate
and the only right of the holders of the Rights will be to receive the
Redemption Price.
The terms of the Rights may be amended by the Board of Directors of the Company
without the consent of the holders of the Rights, including an amendment to
lower certain thresholds described above to not less than the greater of (i) any
percentage greater than the largest percentage of the voting power of all
securities of the Company then known to the Company to be beneficially owned by
any person or group of affiliated or associated persons (other than an excepted
person) and (ii) 10%, except that from and after such time as any person or
group of affiliated or associated persons becomes an Acquiring Person no such
amendment may adversely affect the interests of the holders of the Rights.
F-16
65
(7) LEASES AND OTHER COMMITMENTS -
The Company leases office facilities and certain equipment under noncancellable
operating leases having initial or remaining terms of more than one year. In
addition, the Company leases a right-of-way from a railroad company under a
fifteen-year lease with three fifteen-year renewal options. The Company is also
obligated under rights-of-way and franchise agreements with various entities for
the use of their rights-of-way for the installation of the Company's
telecommunications systems. Rental expense under these operating leases was
$130.8 million, $56.7 million, and $45.1 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
In prior years, the Company sold to independent entities and leased back its
Pacific Northwest microwave system and its Kansas City to Los Angeles fiber
optic system over primary lease terms ranging from 15 to 20 years. The leases
have renewal options permitting the Company to extend the leases for terms
expiring during the years 2012 to 2019 and purchase options based upon the fair
market value. The annual lease commitments pursuant to the sale-leasebacks are
included below under the heading Telecommunications Facilities.
At the end of 1997, minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases
and commitments were as follows (in thousands):
MINIMUM LEASE PAYMENTS
-------------------------------------------------
OFFICE
FACILITIES
AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
YEAR EQUIPMENT FACILITIES TOTAL
---- --------- ---------- -----
1998 $103,443 $112,049 $215,492
1999 99,973 105,263 205,236
2000 85,064 95,761 180,825
2001 66,899 81,087 147,986
2002 56,193 73,736 129,929
Certain of the Company's facility leases include renewal options, and most
leases include provisions for rent escalation to reflect increased operating
costs and/or require the Company to pay certain maintenance and utility costs.
WorldCom also has agreements with a company that installs, operates and
maintains certain WorldCom data processing, telecommunications and billing
systems. The agreements expire in 2003 and are renewable on an annual basis
thereafter. The agreements require minimum annual payments of approximately
$25.2 million.
Pursuant to an agreement with a joint venture, the Company is obligated to
invest up to $75 million by the end of 1998 in the form of capital contributions
and to pay $60 million over the next three years to purchase an indefeasible
right of use for certain undersea capacity that is being constructed by the
joint venture between the United States and Europe.
In 1997, the Company's existing receivables purchase agreement generated
additional proceeds of $41.8 million, bringing the total amount outstanding to
$416.8 million. The Company used these proceeds to reduce outstanding debt under
the Company's New Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 1997, the purchaser
owned an undivided interest in a $978.7 million pool of receivables which
includes the $416.8 million sold.
(8) CONTINGENCIES -
FEDERAL REGULATION. On February 8, 1996, President Clinton signed the Telecom
Act, which permits the Bell System Operating Companies (the "BOCs") to provide
domestic and international long distance services to customers located outside
of the BOCs' home regions; permits a petitioning BOC to provide domestic and
international long distance services to customers within its operating area on a
state by state basis upon a finding by the FCC that a petitioning BOC has
satisfied certain criteria for opening up its local exchange network to
competition and that its provision of long distance services would further the
public interest; and removes existing barriers to entry into local service
markets. Additionally, there were significant changes in: the manner in which
carrier-to-carrier arrangements are regulated at the federal and state level;
procedures to revise universal service standards; and penalties for unauthorized
switching of customers. The FCC has instituted and, in most instances completed,
proceedings addressing the implementation of this legislation.
F-17
66
In implementing the Telecom Act, the FCC established nationwide rules designed
to encourage new entrants to participate in the local services markets through
interconnection with the Incumbant Local Exchange Carriers ("ILECs"), resale
of ILEC's retail services and use of individual and combinations of unbundled
network elements. These rules set the groundwork for the statutory criteria
governing BOC entry into the long distance market. Appeals of the FCC order
adopting those rules were consolidated before the United States Court of Appeals
for the Eighth Circuit (the "Eighth Circuit"). The Eighth Circuit found
constitutional challenges to certain practices implementing cost provisions of
the Telecom Act that were ordered by certain Public Utility Commissions
("PUCs") to be premature, but vacated significant portions of the FCC's
nationwide pricing rules and vacated an FCC rule requiring that unbundled
network elements be provided on a combined basis. In response to requests by the
Solicitor General, on behalf of the FCC, and certain other parties, including
WorldCom, the United States Supreme Court has agreed to review the decision of
the Eighth Circuit. Certain BOCs have also raised constitutional challenges to
provisions of the Telecom Act restricting BOC provision of long distance
services, manufacturing of telecommunications equipment, electronic publishing
and alarm monitoring services. On December 31, 1997, the United States District
Court for the Northern District of Texas (the "Texas District Court") ruled that
these restrictions violate the Bill of Attainder Clause of the U.S.
Constitution. Currently, this decision only applies to SBC Corporation ("SBC"),
US WEST Communications Group ("US WEST"), and Bell Atlantic Corporation ("Bell
Atlantic"). At the request of various parties, on February 11, 1998 the Texas
District Court issued a stay of its decision pending appeal. AT&T, MCI, the
Department of Justice, the FCC and other parties have appealed the decision to
the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. BellSouth Corporation
("BellSouth") raised the Bill of Attainder issue in its appeal before the United
States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit of the electronic publishing
restrictions imposed under the Telecom Act. A decision on that appeal is
pending. WorldCom cannot predict either the ultimate outcome of these or future
challenges to the Telecom Act, any related appeals of regulatory or court
decisions, or the eventual effect on WorldCom's business or the industry in
general.
The FCC has denied applications filed by Ameritech Corporation ("Ameritech"),
SBC and BellSouth seeking authority to provide interLATA long distance service
in Michigan, Oklahoma, Louisiana and South Carolina, respectively. SBC appealed
the FCC's denial of its application covering Oklahoma to the United States Court
of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The court has affirmed the
FCC's denial of that application. In its denial of an Ameritech application and
a BellSouth application, the FCC provided detailed guidance to applicants
regarding the obligations of the applicants, the format of future applications,
the content of future applications, and the review standards that it will apply
in evaluating any future applications. The National Association of Regulatory
Utility Commissioners and several state regulatory commissions have appealed
jurisdictional aspects of that Ameritech application denial to the Eighth
Circuit. WorldCom cannot predict either the outcome of these appeals, or the
BOCs' willingness to abide by these FCC guidelines, or the timing or outcome of
future applications submitted to the FCC. Additionally, several Regional Bell
Operating Companies ("RBOCs") have filed petitions requesting that the FCC
forbear from imposing the line of business restrictions upon their data service
offerings and data network deployment. Other BOCs have announced their intention
to file applications at the FCC for authority to provide interLATA services.
Additionally, the FCC and several PUCs are considering a proposal that would
allow BOCs electing to create separate wholesale network and retail
organizations to enter the long distance market on an accelerated basis.
WorldCom cannot predict the outcome of these proceedings or whether the outcome
will have a material impact upon its consolidated financial position or results
of operations.
On May 7, 1997, the FCC announced that it will issue a series of orders that
will reform Universal Service Subsidy allocations and adopted various reforms to
the existing rate structure for interstate access services provided by the ILECs
that are designed to reduce access charges, over time, to more economically
efficient levels and rate structures. It also affirmed that information service
providers (including, among others, ISPs) should not be subject to existing
access charges ("ISP Exemption"). Petitions for reconsideration of, among other
things, the access service and ISP Exemption related actions were filed before
the FCC and appeals taken to various United States Courts of Appeals. On
reconsideration, the FCC in significant part affirmed the access charge and ISP
Exemption actions and the court appeals have been consolidated before the Eighth
Circuit. Also, several state agencies have started proceedings to address the
reallocation of implicit subsidies contained in the access rates and retail
service rates to state universal service funds. Access charges are a principal
component of WorldCom's telecommunications expense. Additionally, modification
of the ISP Exemption could have an adverse effect on the Company's
Internet-related services business. WorldCom cannot predict either the outcome
of these appeals or whether or not the result(s) will have a material impact
upon its consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The FCC issued on December 24, 1996 a Notice of Inquiry to seek comment on
whether it should consider various actions relating to interstate information
services and the Internet. The FCC recognized that these services and recent
technological advances may be constrained by current regulatory practices that
have their foundations in traditional circuit switched telecommunications
services and technologies. Based upon this and other proceedings, the FCC may
permit telecommunications companies, BOCs, or others to increase the scope or
reduce the cost of their Internet access services. WorldCom cannot predict the
effect that the Notice of
F-18
67
Inquiry, the Telecom Act or any future legislation, regulation or regulatory
changes may have on its consolidated financial position or results of
operations.
INTERNATIONAL. In December 1996, the FCC adopted a new policy that will make it
easier for United States international carriers to obtain authority to route
international public switched voice traffic to and from the United States
outside of the traditional settlement rate and proportionate return regimes. In
February 1997, the United States entered into a World Trade Organization
Agreement (the "WTO Agreement") that should have the effect of liberalizing the
provision of switched voice telephone and other telecommunications services in
scores of foreign countries over the next several years. The WTO Agreement
became effective in February 1998. In order to comply with United States
commitments to the WTO Agreement, the FCC implemented new rules in February 1998
that liberalize existing policies regarding (i) the services that may be
provided by foreign affiliated United States international common carriers,
including carriers controlled or more than 25 percent owned by foreign carriers
that have market power in their home markets, and (ii) the provision of
international switched voice services outside of the traditional settlement rate
and proportionate return regimes. The new rules make it much easier for foreign
affiliated carriers to enter the United States market for the provision of
international services.
In August 1997, the FCC adopted mandatory settlement rate benchmarks. These
benchmarks are intended to reduce the rates that United States carriers pay
foreign carriers to terminate traffic in their home countries. The FCC will also
prohibit a United States carrier affiliated with a foreign carrier from
providing facilities-based service to the foreign carrier's home market until
and unless the foreign carrier has implemented a settlement rate within the
benchmark. The FCC also adopted new rules that will liberalize the provision of
switched services over private lines to World Trade Organization member
countries, by allowing such services on routes where 50% or more of United
States billed traffic is being terminated in the foreign country at or below the
applicable settlement rate benchmark or where the foreign country's rules
concerning provision of international switched services over private lines
deemed equivalent to United States rules.
Although the FCC's new policies and implementation of the WTO Agreement may
result in lower costs to WorldCom to terminate international traffic, there is a
risk that the revenues that WorldCom will receive from inbound international
traffic may decrease to an even greater degree. The implementation of the WTO
Agreement may also make it easier for foreign carriers with market power in
their home markets to offer United States and foreign customers end-to-end
services to the disadvantage of WorldCom, which may continue to face substantial
obstacles in obtaining from foreign governments and foreign carriers the
authority and facilities to provide such end-to-end services. Further, many
foreign carriers have challenged, in court and at the FCC, the FCC's order
adopting mandatory settlement rate benchmarks. If the FCC's settlement rate
benchmark order was overturned, it could accelerate the full-fledged entry of
foreign carriers into the United States, and make it more advantageous for
foreign carriers to route international traffic into the United States at low,
cost-based termination rates, while United States carriers would continue to
have little choice but to route international traffic into most foreign
countries at much higher, above cost, settlement rates.
The Company is involved in other legal and regulatory proceedings generally
incidental to its business. In some instances, rulings by regulatory authorities
in some states may result in increased operating costs to the Company. While the
results of these various legal and regulatory matters contain an element of
uncertainty, the Company believes that the probable outcome of any of the these
matters should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated
results of operations or financial position.
(9) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS -
STOCK OPTION PLANS:
The Company has several stock option plans under which options to acquire up to
203.6 million shares may be granted to directors, officers and certain employees
of the Company (including the stock option plans acquired through the MFS
Merger). The Company accounts for these plans under APB Opinion No. 25, under
which no compensation cost is recognized. Terms and conditions of the Company's
options, including exercise price and the period in which options are
exercisable, generally are at the discretion of the Compensation and Stock
Option Committee of the Board of Directors; however, no options are exercisable
for more than 10 years after date of grant. As of December 31, 1997, 144.1
million options had been granted under these plans, and 29.5 million options
were fully exercisable.
Additionally, there are outstanding warrants to acquire shares of Common Stock
at $6.25 per share which were granted by MFS prior to the MFS Merger.
Additional information regarding options and warrants granted and outstanding is
summarized below:
F-19
68
Number of Exercise
Options Price
----------- ----------------
Balance, December 31, 1994 28,794,110 $ 0.30 - 15.07
Granted to employees/directors 12,862,876 10.35 - 16.94
Granted in connection with acquisition 2,304,004 9.20 - 10.96
Exercised (18,965,034) 0.30 - 15.07
Expired or canceled (1,791,780) 1.59 - 15.07
-----------
Balance, December 31, 1995 23,204,176 0.34 - 16.94
Granted to employees/directors 7,963,412 14.81 - 27.50
Granted in connection with acquisition 52,930,232 0.01 - 25.95
Exercised (6,215,165) 1.58 - 15.07
Expired or canceled (864,993) 0.34 - 27.50
-----------
Balance, December 31, 1996 77,017,662 0.01 - 27.50
Granted to employees/directors 29,090,502 26.00 - 31.88
Exercised (20,545,286) 0.01 - 27.50
Expired or canceled (5,401,017) 0.01 - 26.00
------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 80,161,861 $ 0.01 - 31.88
============
In October 1995, the FASB issued SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation". SFAS No. 123 requires disclosure of the compensation cost for
stock-based incentives granted after January 1, 1995 based on the fair value at
grant date for awards. Applying SFAS No. 123 would result in pro forma net
income (loss) and earnings (loss) per share ("EPS") amounts as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
----------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- ----------- --------
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item As reported $357,219 $(2,189,804) $233,080
Pro forma 306,566 (2,205,407) 226,954
Basic EPS As reported 0.40 (5.50) 0.67
Pro forma 0.34 (5.54) 0.65
Diluted EPS As reported 0.40 (5.50) 0.64
Pro forma 0.34 (5.54) 0.62
The fair value of each option or restricted stock grant is estimated on the date
of grant using an option-pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions used for grant:
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE GRANT-
DATE
DATE GRANTED EXPECTED VOLATILITY RISK-FREE INTEREST RATE FAIR VALUE
- ------------ ------------------- ----------------------- ----------
January 1995 25.6% 7.9% $4.06
July 1995 24.5% 6.0% $4.65
September 1995 23.1% 6.0% $5.66
January 1996 21.6% 5.4% $5.56
July 1996 21.3% 6.5% $9.26
January 1997 22.8% 6.4% $8.88
February 1997 22.7% 6.2% $8.02
March 1997 22.8% 6.4% $7.88
July 1997 23.3% 6.3% $10.96
F-20
69
Additionally, for all options, a 15% forfeiture rate was assumed with an
expected life of 5 years and no dividend yield. Because the SFAS No. 123 method
of accounting has been applied only to grants after December 31, 1994, the
resulting pro forma compensation cost may not be representative of that to be
expected in future periods.
401(k) PLANS:
The Company and its subsidiaries offer its qualified employees the opportunity
to participate in one of its defined contribution retirement plans qualifying
under the provisions of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Each
employee may contribute on a tax deferred basis a portion of annual earnings not
to exceed $9,500. The Company matches individual employee contributions in
certain plans, up to a maximum level which in no case exceeds 6% of the
employee's compensation.
Expenses recorded by the Company relating to its 401(k) plans were $6.9 million,
$5.7 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and
1995, respectively.
SHAREWORKS:
Through the MFS Merger, the Company offered MFS employees a grant plan and a
match plan jointly known as Shareworks. The grant plan enabled the Company to
grant shares of Common Stock to eligible MFS employees based upon a percentage
of that employee's eligible pay, up to 5%. The match plan allowed eligible
employees to defer between 1% and 10% of eligible pay to purchase Common Stock
at the stock price on each pay period date. The Company matched the shares
purchased by the employee on a one-for-one basis. The grant plan and match plan
were terminated effective June 30, 1997, and all shares within the plan for
active employees as of such date were immediately vested.
(10) INCOME TAXES -
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109
"Accounting for Income Taxes." When SFAS No. 109 was adopted, the cumulative
effect of this change in accounting principle was not material to the Company.
The provision for income taxes is composed of the following (in thousands):
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- --------
Current $ 47,578 $ 71,079 $ 33
Deferred 368,043 58,449 171,425
-------- -------- --------
Total provision for income taxes $415,621 $129,528 $171,458
======== ======== ========
The following is a reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to the
expected amounts using the statutory rate:
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- --------
Expected statutory amount 35.0% (35.0)% 35.0%
Nondeductible amortization of excess of
cost over net tangible assets acquired 12.1 1.0 4.5
State income taxes 2.0 0.4 2.9
Charge for in-process research and development -- 36.4 --
Write-down of assets -- 4.2 --
Valuation allowance -- (1.7) (1.6)
Other 2.9 1.0 (1.6)
-------- -------- --------
Actual tax provision 52.0% 6.3% 39.2%
======== ======== ========
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting
purposes and amounts used for income tax purposes and the impact of available
net operating loss carryforwards.
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At December 31, 1997, the Company had unused net operating loss ("NOL")
carryforwards for federal income tax purposes of approximately $1.5 billion
which expire in various amounts during the years 2002 through 2012. These NOL
carryforwards together with state and other NOL carryforwards result in a
deferred tax asset of approximately $580.4 million at December 31, 1997. A
valuation allowance of $109.9 million has been established related to deferred
tax assets due to the uncertainty of realizing the full benefit of the NOL
carryforwards. In evaluating the amount of valuation allowance needed, the
Company considers the acquired companies' prior operating results and future
plans and expectations. The utilization period of the NOL carryforwards and the
turnaround period of other temporary differences are also considered.
Approximately $384.1 million of the Company's deferred tax assets are related to
preacquisition NOL carryforwards attributable to entities acquired in
transactions accounted for as purchases. Accordingly, any future reductions in
the valuation allowance related to such deferred tax assets will result in a
corresponding reduction in goodwill. If, however, subsequent events or
conditions dictate an increase in the valuation allowance attributable to such
deferred tax assets, income tax expense for the period of the increase will be
increased accordingly.
The following is a summary of the significant components of the Company's
deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 (in
thousands):
December 31,
----------------------------------------------------
1997 1996
-------------------------- ------------------------
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
----------- ----------- --------- -----------
Allowance for bad debts $ 11,823 $ -- $ 10,644 $ --
Fixed assets -- (142,850) -- (50,728)
Goodwill and other intangibles -- (252,694) -- (287,481)
Software -- (64,326) -- (39,017)
Investments -- (22,768) -- (17,376)
Line installation costs -- (39,678) -- (23,427)
Accrued liabilities 266,586 -- 102,685 --
NOL carryforwards 580,351 -- 488,931 --
Stock options 146,248 -- 297,135 --
Other 9,121 (36,467) 34,543 (13,075)
----------- --------- --------- ---------
1,014,129 (558,783) 933,938 (431,104)
Valuation allowance (109,924) -- (109,924) --
----------- --------- --------- ---------
$ 904,205 $(558,783) $ 824,014 $(431,104)
=========== ========= ========= =========
(11) SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION -
Interest paid by the Company during the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and
1995 amounted to $249.2 million, $234.7 million and $224.3 million,
respectively. Income taxes paid, net of refunds, during the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 were $13.7 million, $6.0 million and $7.3 million,
respectively.
In conjunction with business combinations during the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995 (See Note 2), assets acquired, liabilities assumed and
common stock issued were as follows (in thousands):
December 31,
------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ------------ -----------
Fair value of assets acquired $ 250,237 $ 3,242,792 $ 805,482
Goodwill and other intangible assets 902,065 9,170,483 2,301,567
Liabilities assumed (361) (1,975,315) (327,844)
Common stock issued (61,276) (10,554,013) (12,850)
----------- ------------ -----------
Net cash paid (acquired) $ 1,090,665 $ (116,053) $ 2,766,355
=========== ============ ===========
(12) SUBSEQUENT EVENTS -
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom acquired CompuServe Corporation ("CompuServe"), a
Delaware corporation, pursuant to the merger (the "CompuServe Merger") of a
wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom, with and into CompuServe. Upon consummation
of the CompuServe Merger, CompuServe became a wholly owned subsidiary of
WorldCom.
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As a result of the CompuServe Merger, each share of CompuServe common stock was
converted into the right to receive 0.40625 shares of Common Stock or
approximately 37.6 million WorldCom common shares in the aggregate. Prior to the
CompuServe Merger, CompuServe operated primarily through two divisions:
Interactive Services and Network Services. Interactive Services offered
worldwide online and Internet access services for consumers, while Network
Services provided worldwide network access, management and applications, and
Internet service to businesses. The CompuServe Merger is being accounted for as
a purchase; accordingly, operating results for CompuServe will be included from
the date of acquisition.
On January 31, 1998, WorldCom also acquired ANS Communications, Inc. ("ANS"),
from America Online, Inc. ("AOL") and has entered into five year contracts with
AOL under which WorldCom and its subsidiaries will provide network services to
AOL (collectively, the "AOL Transaction"). As part of the AOL Transaction, AOL
acquired CompuServe's Interactive Services division and received a $175 million
cash payment from WorldCom. WorldCom retained the CompuServe Network Services
division. ANS provides Internet access to AOL and AOL's subscribers in the
United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Japan, and also designs,
develops and operates high performance wide-area networks for business,
research, education and governmental organizations.
On January 29, 1998, WorldCom acquired Brooks Fiber Properties, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("BFP"), pursuant to the merger (the "BFP Merger") of a wholly owned
subsidiary of WorldCom, with and into BFP. Upon consummation of the BFP Merger,
BFP became a wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom. BFP is a leading
facilities-based provider of competitive local telecommunications services,
commonly referred to as a competitive local exchange carrier in selected cities
within the United States. BFP acquires and constructs it own state-of-the-art
fiber optic networks and facilities and leases network capacity from others to
provide long distance carriers, ISPs, wireless carriers and business, government
and institutional end users with an alternative to the ILECs for a broad array
of high quality voice, data, video transport and other telecommunications
services.
As a result of the BFP Merger, each share of BFP common stock was converted into
the right to receive 1.85 shares of Common Stock or approximately 72.6 million
WorldCom common shares in the aggregate. The BFP Merger is being accounted for
under the pooling-of-interests method. Separate and combined unaudited results
of operations are as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
For the Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
Revenues:
BFP $ 128,782 $ 45,574 $ 14,160
WorldCom 7,351,354 4,485,130 3,696,345
Intercompany elimination (3,596) (3,877) (5)
----------- ----------- -----------
Combined $ 7,476,540 $ 4,526,827 $ 3,710,500
=========== =========== ===========
Net income (loss) before extraordinary items:
BFP $ (136,391) $ (43,843) $ (9,551)
WorldCom 383,652 (2,188,944) 266,271
----------- ----------- -----------
Combined $ 247,261 $(2,232,787) $ 256,720
=========== =========== ===========
Combined earnings (loss) per share:
Basic $ 0.23 $ (5.08) $ 0.59
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted $ 0.23 $ (5.08) $ 0.57
=========== =========== ===========
On November 9, 1997, WorldCom entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the
"MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement") with MCI and a wholly owned acquisition
subsidiary of WorldCom ("MCI Merger Sub"), providing for the merger (the
"MCI/WorldCom Merger") of MCI with and into MCI Merger Sub, with MCI Merger Sub
surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of WorldCom. As a result of the
MCI/WorldCom Merger, the separate corporate existence of MCI will cease, and MCI
Merger Sub (which will be renamed "MCI Communications Corporation") will succeed
to all the rights and be responsible for all the obligations of MCI in
accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law. Subject to the terms and
conditions of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement, each share of MCI common stock,
par value $0.10 per share ("MCI Common Stock") outstanding immediately prior to
the effective time of the MCI/WorldCom Merger (the "MCI/WorldCom Effective
Time") will be converted into the right to receive that number of shares of
Common Stock equal to the MCI Exchange Ratio (as defined below), and each share
of MCI Class A common stock, par value $.10 per share ("MCI Class A Common
Stock" and, together with the MCI Common Stock, the "MCI Capital Stock"),
outstanding immediately prior to the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time will be
converted into the right to receive $51.00 in cash, without interest
F-23
72
thereon. The "MCI Exchange Ratio" means the quotient (rounded to the nearest
1/10,000) determined by dividing $51.00 by the average of the high and low sales
prices of Common Stock (the "MCI/WorldCom Average Price") as reported on The
Nasdaq National Market on each of the 20 consecutive trading days ending with
the third trading day immediately preceding the MCI/WorldCom Effective Time;
provided, however, that the MCI Exchange Ratio will not be less than 1.2439 or
greater than 1.7586. Cash will be paid in lieu of the issuance of any fractional
share of WorldCom Common Stock in the MCI/WorldCom Merger.
Based on the number of shares of MCI Common Stock outstanding as of January 20,
1998 and assumed MCI Exchange Ratios of 1.2439 and 1.7586, approximately
710,554,160 shares and 1,004,566,722 shares, respectively, of Common Stock would
be issued in the MCI/WorldCom Merger. In addition, as of December 31, 1997,
outstanding options to purchase shares of MCI Common Stock would be converted in
the MCI/WorldCom Merger to options to acquire an aggregate of approximately
86,491,688 shares and 122,280,154 shares, respectively, of Common Stock, and the
exercise price would be adjusted to reflect the MCI Exchange Ratio, so that, on
exercise, the holders would receive, in the aggregate, the same number of shares
of Common Stock as they would have received had they exercised prior to the
MCI/WorldCom Merger, at the same exercise price.
The MCI/WorldCom Merger was approved by the MCI stockholders and the WorldCom
shareholders at separate meetings held on March 11, 1998. The MCI/WorldCom
Merger is also subject to approvals from the FCC, the Department of Justice and
various state government bodies. In addition, the MCI/WorldCom Merger is subject
to approval by the Commission of the European Communities. WorldCom anticipates
that the MCI/WorldCom Merger will close mid-year 1998.
Termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under
certain conditions will require MCI to pay WorldCom $750 million as a
termination fee and to reimburse WorldCom the $450 million alternative
transaction fee and certain related expenses paid by WorldCom to BT. Further,
termination of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement by MCI or WorldCom under
certain conditions, will require WorldCom to pay MCI $1.635 billion as a
termination fee.
Pursuant to an agreement (the "BT Agreement") among MCI, WorldCom and BT, the
prior merger agreement between BT and MCI (the "BT/MCI Merger Agreement") was
terminated, and WorldCom agreed to pay BT an alternative transaction fee of $450
million and expenses of $15 million payable to BT in accordance with the BT/MCI
Merger Agreement. These fees were paid on November 12, 1997. WorldCom also
agreed to pay to BT an additional payment of $250 million in the event that
WorldCom is required to make the $1.635 billion payment to MCI in accordance
with the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement. In addition, pursuant to the BT
Agreement, BT voted (or caused to be voted) its shares of MCI Class A Common
Stock in favor of the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement and the approval of the
other transactions contemplated by the MCI/WorldCom Merger Agreement.
(13) UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA -
Quarter Ended
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31,
----------------------- ---------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
1997 1996 1997 1996 1997 1996 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
(in thousands, except per share data)
Revenues $1,677,239 $1,034,060 $1,770,084 $1,073,538 $1,901,199 $1,143,428 $2,002,832 $ 1,234,104
Operating income (loss) 170,520 195,857 239,210 (183,749) 309,917 232,343 378,959 (2,088,545)
Net income (loss) 49,664 86,307 78,607 (267,602) 112,445 109,255 142,936 (2,141,338)
Preferred dividend
requirement 6,610 505 6,611 355 6,606 -- 6,606 --
Earnings (loss) per
common share:
Basic $ 0.05 $ 0.22 $ 0.08 $ (0.69) $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ 0.15 $ (5.22)
Diluted 0.05 0.21 0.08 (0.69) 0.12 0.27 0.15 (5.22)
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Results for 1996 include a $2.14 billion, fourth quarter charge for in-process
research and development related to the MFS Merger. The charge is based upon a
valuation analysis of the technologies of MFS' worldwide information system, the
Internet network expansion system of UUNET, and certain other identified
research and development projects purchased in the MFS Merger. The expense
includes $1.6 billion associated with UUNET and $0.54 billion related to MFS.
Additionally, fourth quarter 1996 results include other after-tax charges of
$121.0 million for employee severance, employee compensation charges, alignment
charges, and costs to exit unfavorable telecommunications contracts and $344.0
million after-tax write-down of operating assets within its non-core businesses.
On a pre-tax basis, these charges totaled $600.1 million.
In connection with certain debt refinancing, the Company recognized in 1996,
extraordinary items of approximately $4.2 million, net of income taxes,
consisting of unamortized debt discount, unamortized issuance cost and
prepayment fees. Additionally, in 1996 the Company recorded an extraordinary
item of $20.2 million, net of income taxes, related to a write-off of deferred
international costs.
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WORLDCOM, INC.
SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(IN THOUSANDS)
ADDITIONS
------------------------
BALANCE AT CHARGED TO FROM DEDUCTIONS
BEGINNING OF COSTS AND PURCHASE AND ACCOUNTS BALANCE AT
DESCRIPTION PERIOD EXPENSES TRANSACTIONS WRITTEN OFF END OF PERIOD
----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Accounts Receivable
1997 $135,696 $107,327 $15,754 $58,566 $ 200,211
1996 59,185 57,678 63,749 44,916 135,696
1995 53,199 40,250 22,042 56,306 59,185
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75
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. Description Page
- ----------- ----------- ----
2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of September 7, 1997, by and
among H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Group, Inc., CompuServe Corporation,
WorldCom, Inc., and Walnut Acquisition Company, L.L.C. (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K dated September 7, 1997(File No. 0-11258))*
2.2 Stockholders Agreement, dated as of September 7, 1997, by and among
H&R Block, Inc., a Missouri corporation, H&R Block Group, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, and WorldCom, Inc., a Georgia corporation.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 7, 1997(File No. 0-11258))
2.3 Standstill Agreement dated as of September 7, 1997, by and among H&R
Block, Inc., a Missouri corporation, H&R Block Group, Inc., a Delaware
corporation, and WorldCom, Inc., a Georgia corporation (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 2.3 to the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K dated September 7, 1997(File No. 0-11258))
2.4 Purchase and Sale Agreement by and among America Online, Inc., ANS
Communications, Inc. and WorldCom, Inc., dated as of September 7, 1997
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.4 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 7, 1997(File No. 0-11258))*
2.5 Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of October
1, 1997 by and among WorldCom, Inc., BV Acquisition, Inc. and Brooks
Fiber Properties, Inc. ("BFP") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2.1 to WorldCom's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No.
333-43253))*
2.6 Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of November 9, 1997 among
WorldCom., Inc., TC Investments Corp. and MCI Communications
Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 9, 1997 (filed November 12,
1997))*
2.7 Agreement dated as of November 9, 1997 among British
Telecommunications plc, WorldCom, Inc. and MCI Communications
Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 9, 1997 (filed
November 12, 1997))*
4.1 Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of WorldCom
(including preferred stock designations) as of December 31, 1996
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report
on Form 8-K dated December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
4.2 Restated Bylaws of WorldCom, Inc. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
4.3 Deposit Agreement between WorldCom, The Bank of New York and the
holders from time to time of the Depositary Shares representing 1/100
of a share of WorldCom Series A Preferred Stock (the "WorldCom
Depositary Shares") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to
Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed by WorldCom (Registration No.
333-16015))
4.4 Form of certificate representing WorldCom Depositary Shares
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Deposit Agreement filed
as Exhibit 4.5 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed by WorldCom
(Registration No. 333-16015))
4.5 Rights Agreement dated as of August 25, 1996 between WorldCom and The
Bank of New York, which includes the form of Certificate of
Designations, setting forth the terms of the Series 3 Junior
Participating Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share, as Exhibit A,
the form of Rights Certificate as Exhibit B and the Summary of
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights as Exhibit C (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K dated August
26, 1996 (as amended) filed by WorldCom on August 26, 1996 (File No.
0-11258))
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76
Exhibit No. Description Page
- ----------- ----------- ----
4.6 Amendment No. 1 To Rights Agreement dated as of May 22, 1997 by and
between the Company and The Bank of New York, as Rights Agent
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 22, 1997 (filed June 6, 1997)
(File No. 0-11258))
4.7 Form of 7.55% Senior Note due 2004 (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March
26, 1997(File No. 0-11258))
4.8 Form of 7.75% Senior Note due 2007 (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March
26, 1997 (File No. 0-11258))
4.9 Form of 7.75% Senior Note due 2027 (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March
26, 1997 (File No. 0-11258))
4.10 Senior Indenture dated as of March 1, 1997 by and between WorldCom,
Inc. and Mellon Bank, N.A., as trustee (under which The Chase
Manhattan Bank now acts as trustee) (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the period ended March
31, 1997 (File No. 0-11258))
4.11 Form of First Supplemental Indenture of WorldCom to Mellon Bank,
N.A.(under which The Chase Manhattan Bank now acts as trustee)
relating to 9-3/8% Notes Due 2004 and 8-7/8% Senior Notes Due 2006
(including form of 9-3/8% Senior Note Due 2004 attached as Exhibit A
thereto and form of 8-7/8% Senior Note Due 2006 attached as Exhibit B
thereto) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the
Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No.
333-27345))
10.1 Facility A Revolving Credit Agreement among WorldCom, Inc.,
NationsBank of Texas, N.A. (Managing Agent and Administrative Agent),
Bank of America NT & SA, Bank of Montreal, The Bank of New York, The
Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi Trust Company, Barclays
Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, The Chase Manhattan
Bank, Citibank, N.A., Credit Lyonnais New York Branch, First Union
National Bank, Fleet National Bank, The Industrial Bank of Japan,
Limited, Atlanta Agency, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York,
Royal Bank of Canada, and Toronto Dominion (Texas), Inc. (Agents) and
the Lenders named therein (Facility A Lenders), dated as of July 3,
1997 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 1997 (File No.
0-11258))*
10.2 Facility B Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement among WorldCom,
Inc., NationsBank of Texas, N.A. (Managing Agent and Administrative
Agent), Bank of America NT and SA, Bank of Montreal, The Bank of New
York, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi Trust Company,
Barclays Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, The Chase
Manhattan Bank, Citibank, N.A., Credit Lyonnais New York Branch, First
Union National Bank, Fleet National Bank, The Industrial Bank of
Japan, Limited, Atlanta Agency, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New
York, Royal Bank of Canada, and Toronto Dominion (Texas), Inc.
(Agents) and the Lenders named therein (Facility B Lenders), dated as
of July 3, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 1997 (File No.
0-11258))*
10.3 364-Day Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement among WorldCom, Inc.,
Borrower, NationsBank of Texas N.A., Administrative Agent and the
lenders name therein, dated as of February 19, 1998.*
10.4 Amended and Restated Transfer and Administration Agreement between
Enterprise Funding Corporation, WorldCom Funding Corporation as
Transferor, WorldCom, individually and as Collection Agent, Sheffield
Receivables Corporation and NationsBank, N.A. as Agent and Investor
dated as of December 31, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))*
10.5 Amendment Number 1 to Amended and Restated Transfer and Administration
Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31,
1996 (File No. 0-11258))
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77
Exhibit No. Description Page
- ----------- ----------- ----
10.6 WorldCom, Inc. Third Amended and Restated 1990 Stock Option Plan
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A to WorldCom's Proxy
Statement dated April 22, 1996 used in connection with WorldCom's 1996
Annual Meeting of Shareholders (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory plan)
10.7 LDDS Communications, Inc. 1988 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan
(incorporated herein by reference to the exhibits to LDDS-TN's
Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 33-29051)) (compensatory
plan)
10.8 LDDS Annual Performance Bonus Plan (incorporated by reference to the
Company's Proxy Statement used in connection with the Company's 1994
Annual Meeting of Shareholders (File No. 1-10415)) (compensatory plan)
10.9 WorldCom, Inc. Special Performance Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit B to the Company's Proxy Statement dated April
22,1996 used in connection with the Company's 1996 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory plan)
10.10 WorldCom, Inc. Performance Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit A to the Company's Proxy Statement dated April
21, 1997 (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory plan)
10.11 WorldCom/MFS 1995 Deferred Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No.0- 11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.12 WorldCom/MFS Employee Stock Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.13 WorldCom/MFS 1992 Stock Plan (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10.15 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory
plan)
10.14 WorldCom/MFS 1993 Stock Plan (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
period ended December 31, 1996) (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory
plan)
10.15 WorldCom/MFS/UUNET 1995 Performance Option Plan (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0- 11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.16 WorldCom/MFS/UUNET Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.17 WorldCom/MFS/UUNET Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.18 WorldCom/MFS Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258))
(compensatory plan)
10.19 Employment Agreement between UUNET and John W. Sidgmore dated May 13,
1994 (incorporated herein by reference to UUNET's Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 33-91028)) (compensatory
plan)
10.20 Ongoing relationship memorandum between the Company and James Q.
Crowe dated February 11, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10.22 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
period ended December 31, 1996 (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory
plan)
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78
Exhibit No. Description Page
- ----------- ----------- ----
10.21 Memorandum between the Company and James Q. Crowe dated June 26,
1997 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June
30, 1997 (File No. 0-11258)) (compensatory plan)
10.22 Change of Control Severance Agreement effective April 8, 1997
between Brooks Fiber Properties, Inc. ("BFP") and James C. Allen
(incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to BFP's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June
30, 1997 (File No. 0-28036)) (compensatory plan)
12.1 Statement regarding computation of ratio of earnings and preferred
stock dividends to combined fixed charges
21.1 Subsidiaries of the Company
23.1 Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP
27.1 Financial Data Schedule - December 31, 1997
27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule - December 31, 1996
27.3 Restated Financial Data Schedule - December 31, 1995
99.1 WorldCom's Current Report on Form 8-K/A-1 dated November 9, 1997
(filed January 27, 1998) (File No. 0-11258), which is incorporated
herein by reference.
- -----------------------------------
* The Registrant hereby agrees to furnish supplementally a copy of any
omitted schedules to this Agreement to the Securities and Exchange
Commission upon its request.
E-4