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EX-32.02 - SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION BY CURTIS E. ESPELAND - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex3202.htm
EX-32.01 - SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION BY MARK J. COSTA - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex3201.htm
EX-31.02 - RULE 13A 14(A) CERTIFICATION BY CURTIS E. ESPELAND - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex3102.htm
EX-31.01 - RULE 13A 14(A) CERTIFICATION BY MARK J. COSTA - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex3101.htm
EX-12.01 - COMPUTATION OF RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex1201.htm
EX-10.02 - 2017 DIRECTOR STOCK COMPENSATION SUBPLAN - EASTMAN CHEMICAL COemn20170331ex1002.htm

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC  20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark
One)
 
[X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2017
 
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 1-12626

EASTMAN CHEMICAL COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
62-1539359
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. employer
incorporation or organization)
identification no.)
 
 
200 South Wilcox Drive
 
Kingsport, Tennessee
37662
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (423) 229-2000

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 whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
YES [X]  NO  [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," and "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
[X]
 
Accelerated filer
[  ]
Non-accelerated filer
[   ]
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
[  ]
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
[  ]
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
YES [  ]  NO  [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
YES [  ]  NO  [X]

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class
Number of Shares Outstanding at March 31, 2017
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
145,827,050
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1


TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM
 
PAGE

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION


PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION


SIGNATURES


EXHIBIT INDEX


2


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements made or incorporated by reference in this Quarterly Report are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are all statements, other than statements of historical fact, that may be made by Eastman Chemical Company ("Eastman" or the "Company") from time to time. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "may," "plans," "projects," "will," "would," and similar expressions or expressions of the negative of these terms. Forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, such matters as planned and expected capacity increases and utilization; anticipated capital spending; expected depreciation and amortization; environmental matters; exposure to, and effects of hedging of, raw material and energy costs; foreign currencies and interest rates; disruption of raw material or energy supply; global and regional economic, political, and business conditions; competition; growth opportunities; supply and demand, volume, price, cost, margin and sales; pending and future legal proceedings; earnings, cash flow, dividends and other expected financial results, events, and conditions; expectations, strategies, and plans for individual assets and products, businesses, and operating segments, as well as for the whole of Eastman; cash requirements and uses of available cash; financing plans and activities; pension expenses and funding; credit ratings; anticipated and other future restructuring, acquisition, divestiture, and consolidation activities; cost reduction and control efforts and targets; the timing and costs of, and benefits from, the integration of, and expected business and financial performance of, acquired businesses; strategic initiatives and development, production, commercialization and acceptance of new products, services and technologies and related costs; asset, business, and product portfolio changes; and expected tax rates and net interest costs.

Forward-looking statements are based upon certain underlying assumptions as of the date such statements were made. Such assumptions are based upon internal estimates and other analyses of current market conditions and trends, management expectations, plans, and strategies, economic conditions, and other factors. Forward-looking statements and the assumptions underlying them are necessarily subject to risks and uncertainties inherent in projecting future conditions and results. Actual results could differ materially from expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying assumptions and expectations proves to be inaccurate or is unrealized. The most significant known factors, risks, and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are identified and discussed under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 2 of this Quarterly Report. Other factors, risks or uncertainties of which we are not aware, or presently deem immaterial, could also cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements.

The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date such statements are made. Except as may be required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or alter these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.


3



  
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS,
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
2017
 
2016
Sales
$
2,303

 
$
2,236

Cost of sales
1,678

 
1,602

Gross profit
625

 
634

Selling, general and administrative expenses
174

 
183

Research and development expenses
54

 
54

Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net

 
(2
)
Operating earnings
397

 
399

Net interest expense
60

 
64

Other (income) charges, net
(4
)
 
12

Earnings before income taxes
341

 
323

Provision for income taxes
62

 
72

Net earnings
279

 
251

Less: Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest
1

 

Net earnings attributable to Eastman
$
278

 
$
251

 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share attributable to Eastman
$
1.90

 
$
1.70

Diluted earnings per share attributable to Eastman
$
1.89

 
$
1.69

Comprehensive Income
 
 
 
Net earnings including noncontrolling interest
$
279

 
$
251

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:


 


Change in cumulative translation adjustment
7

 
106

Defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans:
 
 
 
Amortization of unrecognized prior service credits included in net periodic costs
(7
)
 
(7
)
Derivatives and hedging:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss during period
(21
)
 
(18
)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net
(4
)
 
4

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
(25
)
 
85

Comprehensive income including noncontrolling interest
254

 
336

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest
1

 

Comprehensive income attributable to Eastman
$
253

 
$
336

Retained Earnings
 

 
 

Retained earnings at beginning of period
$
5,721

 
$
5,146

Net earnings attributable to Eastman
278

 
251

Cash dividends declared
(74
)
 
(67
)
Retained earnings at end of period
$
5,925

 
$
5,330


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

4


UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
2017
 
2016
Assets
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
197

 
$
181

Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
982

 
812

Miscellaneous receivables
423

 
399

Inventories
1,495

 
1,404

Other current assets
68

 
70

Total current assets
3,165

 
2,866

Properties
 
 
 
Properties and equipment at cost
11,780

 
11,699

Less:  Accumulated depreciation
6,459

 
6,423

Net properties
5,321

 
5,276

Goodwill
4,484

 
4,461

Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
2,434

 
2,469

Other noncurrent assets
351

 
385

Total assets
$
15,755

 
$
15,457

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
Payables and other current liabilities
$
1,332

 
$
1,512

Borrowings due within one year
305

 
283

Total current liabilities
1,637

 
1,795

Long-term borrowings
6,578

 
6,311

Deferred income tax liabilities
1,269

 
1,206

Post-employment obligations
1,009

 
1,018

Other long-term liabilities
535

 
519

Total liabilities
11,028

 
10,849

Stockholders' equity
 
 
 
Common stock ($0.01 par value – 350,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued – 217,989,425 and 217,707,600 for 2017 and 2016, respectively)
2

 
2

Additional paid-in capital
1,930

 
1,915

Retained earnings
5,925

 
5,721

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(306
)
 
(281
)
 
7,551

 
7,357

Less: Treasury stock at cost (72,213,173 shares for 2017 and 71,269,474 shares for 2016)
2,900

 
2,825

Total Eastman stockholders' equity
4,651

 
4,532

Noncontrolling interest
76

 
76

Total equity
4,727

 
4,608

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
15,755

 
$
15,457


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

5


UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
First Three Months
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Operating activities
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
279

 
$
251

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:


 


Depreciation and amortization
145

 
147

Provision for deferred income taxes
31

 
9

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions and divestitures:
 
 
 
(Increase) decrease in trade receivables
(149
)
 
(144
)
(Increase) decrease in inventories
(82
)
 
(2
)
Increase (decrease) in trade payables
(26
)
 
(62
)
Pension and other postretirement contributions (in excess of) less than expenses

(36
)
 
(23
)
Variable compensation (in excess of) less than expenses

(84
)
 
(109
)
Other items, net
(26
)
 
(16
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
52

 
51

Investing activities
 
 
 
Additions to properties and equipment
(133
)
 
(110
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
1

 
6

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(4
)
 
(21
)
Other items, net

 
(1
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(136
)
 
(126
)
Financing activities
 
 
 
Net increase in commercial paper and other borrowings

 
82

Proceeds from borrowings
250

 

Repayment of borrowings

 
(10
)
Dividends paid to stockholders
(75
)
 
(68
)
Treasury stock purchases
(75
)
 
(20
)
Proceeds from stock option exercises and other items, net
2

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
102

 
(16
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(2
)
 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
16

 
(91
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
181

 
293

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
197

 
$
202


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

6


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


7


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared by Eastman Chemical Company ("Eastman" or the "Company") in accordance and consistent with the accounting policies stated in the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The December 31, 2016 financial position data included herein was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements included in the 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP"). The unaudited consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP and of necessity include some amounts that are based upon management estimates and judgments. Future actual results could differ from such current estimates. The unaudited consolidated financial statements include assets, liabilities, sales revenue, and expenses of all majority-owned subsidiaries and joint ventures in which a controlling interest is maintained. Eastman accounts for other joint ventures and investments where it exercises significant influence on the equity basis. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior period data has been reclassified in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes to conform to current period presentation.

2.
INVENTORIES
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Finished goods
$
1,058

 
$
997

Work in process
213

 
198

Raw materials and supplies
488

 
473

Total inventories at FIFO or average cost
1,759

 
1,668

Less: LIFO reserve
264

 
264

Total inventories
$
1,495

 
$
1,404


Inventories valued on the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method were approximately 60 percent of total inventories at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

3.
PAYABLES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Trade creditors
$
668

 
$
704

Accrued payrolls, vacation, and variable-incentive compensation
110

 
196

Post-employment obligations
88

 
110

Accrued taxes
76

 
106

Other
390

 
396

Total payables and other current liabilities
$
1,332

 
$
1,512


The "Other" above consists primarily of accruals for dividends payable, hedging liability, interest payable, the current portion of environmental liabilities, and miscellaneous accruals.


8


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

4.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
%
Provision for income taxes and tax rate
$
62

 
18
%
 
$
72

 
22
%

The first quarter 2017 effective tax rate includes adjustments to the tax provision to reflect planned amendments to and finalization of prior years' income tax returns. The first quarter 2016 effective tax rate includes a $9 million tax benefit primarily due to adjustments to the tax provision to reflect the finalization of 2014 foreign income tax returns.

5.
BORROWINGS
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Borrowings consisted of:
 
 
 
5.5% notes due November 2019
$
249

 
$
249

2.7% notes due January 2020
796

 
796

4.5% notes due January 2021
184

 
184

3.6% notes due August 2022
740

 
741

1.50% notes due May 2023
797

 
786

7 1/4% debentures due January 2024
197

 
197

7 5/8% debentures due June 2024
43

 
43

3.8% notes due March 2025
689

 
689

1.875% notes due November 2026
527

 
519

7.60% debentures due February 2027
195

 
195

4.8% notes due September 2042
492

 
493

4.65% notes due October 2044
871

 
870

Credit facilities borrowings
799

 
549

Commercial paper borrowings
295

 
280

Capital leases and other
9

 
3

Total borrowings
6,883

 
6,594

Borrowings due within one year
305

 
283

Long-term borrowings
$
6,578

 
$
6,311


Credit Facility and Commercial Paper Borrowings

In December 2014, Eastman borrowed $1 billion under a five-year term loan ("2019 Term Loan"). As of March 31, 2017, the 2019 Term Loan agreement balance outstanding was $250 million with an interest rate of 2.23 percent. As of December 31, 2016, the 2019 Term Loan agreement balance outstanding was $250 million with an interest rate of 2.02 percent. In December 2016, the Company borrowed $300 million under a second five-year term loan ("2021 Term Loan"). As of March 31, 2017, the 2021 Term Loan agreement balance outstanding was $299 million with an interest rate of 2.23 percent. As of December 31, 2016, the 2021 Term Loan balance outstanding was $299 million, net of debt issue costs, with an interest rate of 1.95 percent. Borrowings under the 2019 Term Loan and 2021 Term Loan agreements are subject to interest at varying spreads above quoted market rates.


9


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company has access to a $1.25 billion revolving credit agreement (the "Credit Facility") that expires October 2021. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are subject to interest at varying spreads above quoted market rates and a commitment fee is paid on the total unused commitment. The Credit Facility provides liquidity support for commercial paper borrowings and general corporate purposes. Commercial paper borrowings are classified as short-term. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility. At March 31, 2017, the Company's commercial paper borrowings were $295 million with a weighted average interest rate of 1.24 percent. At December 31, 2016, the Company's commercial paper borrowings were $280 million with a weighted average interest rate of 1.12 percent.

The Company has access to a $250 million accounts receivable securitization agreement (the "A/R Facility") that expires April 2019. Eastman Chemical Financial Corporation ("ECFC"), a subsidiary of the Company, has an agreement to sell interests in trade receivables under the A/R Facility to a third party purchaser. Third party creditors of ECFC have first priority claims on the assets of ECFC before those assets would be available to satisfy the Company's general obligations. Borrowings under the A/R Facility are subject to interest rates based on a spread over the lender's borrowing costs, and ECFC pays a fee to maintain availability of the A/R Facility. In first quarter 2017, the entire $250 million available under the A/R Facility was borrowed and remained outstanding at March 31, 2017 with an interest rate of 1.77 percent. At December 31, 2016, the Company had no borrowings under the A/R Facility.

The Credit and A/R Facilities and other borrowing arrangements contain a number of customary covenants and events of default, including requirements to maintain certain financial ratios that determine the amounts available and terms of borrowings. The Company was in compliance with all covenants at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Fair Value of Borrowings

The Company has classified its long-term borrowings at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, under the fair value hierarchy as defined in the accounting policies in Note 1, "Significant Accounting Policies", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The fair value for fixed-rate debt securities is based on current market prices and is classified as Level 1. The fair value for the Company's other borrowings under the Term Loans and the A/R Facility equals the carrying value and is classified as Level 2.


 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2017
(Dollars in millions)
 
Recorded Amount
March 31, 2017
 
Total Fair Value
 
 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Long-term borrowings
 
$
6,578

 
$
6,898

 
$
6,099

 
$
799

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016
(Dollars in millions)
 
Recorded Amount
December 31, 2016
 
Total Fair Value
 
 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Long-term borrowings
 
$
6,311

 
$
6,586

 
$
6,036

 
$
550

 
$



10


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6.
DERIVATIVE AND NON-DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Overview of Hedging Programs

The Company is exposed to market risks, such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates. To mitigate these market risks and their effects on the cash flows of the underlying transactions and investments in foreign subsidiaries, the Company uses various derivative and non-derivative financial instruments when appropriate in accordance with the Company's hedging strategy and policies. Designation is performed on a specific exposure basis to support hedge accounting. The Company does not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes.  

For further information on hedging programs, see Note 10, "Derivative and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Cash Flow Hedges

Cash flow hedges are derivative instruments designated as and used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that are attributable to a particular risk. The derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge are reported on the balance sheet at fair value and the changes in fair value of these hedging instruments are offset in part or in whole by corresponding changes in the anticipated cash flows of the underlying exposures being hedged. The effective portion of qualifying hedges are reported as a component of "Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" ("AOCI") located in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the derivatives representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.

Fair Value Hedges

Fair value hedges are defined as derivative or non-derivative instruments designated as and used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability or an identified portion thereof that is attributable to a particular risk. The derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are reported on the balance sheet at fair value and the changes in fair value of these hedging instruments are offset in part or in whole by corresponding changes in the anticipated cash flows of the underlying exposures being hedged. The effective portion of qualifying hedges are reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the derivatives representing hedge ineffectiveness are recognized in current earnings.

Net Investment Hedges

Net investment hedges are defined as derivative or non-derivative instruments designated as and used to hedge the foreign currency exposure of the net investment in certain foreign operations. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the net investment hedges are reported as a component of "Change in cumulative translation adjustment" within "Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax" ("OCI") located in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings, Comprehensive Income and Retained Earnings. Gains and losses representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings. The designated foreign currency-denominated borrowings are included as part of "Long-term borrowings'" within the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.


11


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Summary of Financial Position and Financial Performance of Hedging Instruments

The following table shows the notional amounts outstanding at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 associated with the Company's hedging programs.
Notional Outstanding
March 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
Foreign Exchange Forward and Option Contracts (in millions)
 
 
 
 
EUR/USD (in EUR)
€336
 
€378
 
EUR/USD (in approximate USD equivalent)
$359
 
$398
 
JPY/USD (in JPY)
¥1,350
 
¥1,800
 
JPY/USD (in approximate USD equivalent)
$12
 
$15
Commodity Forward and Collar Contracts
 
 
 
 
Feedstock (in million barrels)
10

 
11

 
Energy (in million million british thermal units)
23

 
23

 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
Fixed-for-floating interest rate swaps (in millions)
$75
 
$75
 
 
 
 
Non-derivatives designated as net investment hedges:
 
 
 
Foreign Currency Net Investment Hedges (in millions)
 
 
 
 
EUR/USD (in EUR)
€1,239
 
€1,238


12


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table shows the financial assets and liabilities valued on a gross basis as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Additionally, the table below indicates where the derivatives are reported on the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. During the periods presented, there were no transfers between fair value hierarchy levels.
The Financial Position and Gross Fair Value Measurements of Hedging Instruments
(Dollars in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative Type
 
Statements of Financial
Position Classification
 
March 31, 2017
Level 2
 
December 31, 2016
Level 2
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
2

 
$
5

Commodity contracts
 
Other noncurrent assets
 
1

 
2

Foreign exchange contracts
 
Other current assets
 
47

 
49

Foreign exchange contracts
 
Other noncurrent assets
 
34

 
47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed-for-floating interest rate swap
 
Other current assets
 

 
1

Total Derivative Assets on Gross Basis
 
 
 
$
84

 
$
104

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity contracts
 
Payables and other current liabilities
 
$
72

 
$
62

Commodity contracts
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
74

 
69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed-for-floating interest rate swap
 
Long-term borrowings
 
4

 
4

Total Derivative Liabilities on Gross Basis
 
 
 
$
150

 
$
135

Total Net Derivative Liabilities on Gross Basis
 
 
 
$
66

 
$
31


In addition to the fair value associated with derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges and fair value hedges noted in the table above, the Company had a carrying value of $1.3 billion associated with non-derivative instruments designated as foreign currency net investment hedges at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The designated foreign currency-denominated borrowings are included in the "Long-term borrowings" line item of the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

All of the Company's derivative contracts are subject to master netting arrangements, or similar agreements, which provide for the option to settle contracts on a net basis when they settle on the same day and in the same currency. In addition, these arrangements provide for a net settlement of all contracts with a given counterparty in the event that the arrangement is terminated due to the occurrence of default or a termination event. The Company has elected to present the derivative contracts on a gross basis in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Had it chosen to present the derivatives contracts on a net basis, it would have a derivative in a net asset position of $84 million and a derivative in a net liability position of $150 million as of March 31, 2017. The Company does not have any cash collateral due under such agreements.


13


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Fair Value Measurements

For additional fair value measurement information, see Note 1, "Significant Accounting Policies", and Note 10, "Derivative and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

All of the Company's derivative assets and liabilities are currently classified as Level 2. Level 2 fair value is based on estimates using standard pricing models. These standard pricing models use inputs which are derived from or corroborated by observable market data such as interest rate yield curves and currency spot and forward rates. The fair value of commodity contracts is derived using forward curves supplied by an industry recognized and unrelated third party. In addition, on an ongoing basis, the Company tests a subset of its valuations against valuations received from the transaction's counterparty to validate the accuracy of its standard pricing models. Counterparties to these derivative contracts are highly rated financial institutions which the Company believes carry minimal risk of nonperformance. The Company diversifies its positions among such counterparties in order to reduce its exposure to counterparty risk and credit losses and monitors the creditworthiness of its counterparties on an on-going basis. The Company had no credit losses during first quarter 2017 and 2016.

The table below presents the effect of hedging instruments on OCI and the financial performance for first quarter 2017 and 2016:
(Dollars in millions)
 
Change in amount of after tax gain/(loss) recognized in OCI on Derivatives (effective portion)
 
Pre-tax amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from Accumulated OCI into income (effective portion)
 
Additional pre-tax gain/(loss) recognized in earnings (effective portion)
 
 
 
 
First Quarter
 
First Quarter
 
First Quarter
 
 
Hedging Relationships
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
 
Income Statement Classification
Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity contracts
 
$
(16
)
 
$
30

 
$
(7
)
 
$
(20
)
 
$

 
$

 
Cost of sales
Foreign exchange contracts
 
(10
)
 
(26
)
 
12

 
15

 

 

 
Sales
Forward starting interest rate and treasury lock swap contracts
 
1

 
(18
)
 
(1
)
 
(2
)
 

 

 
Net interest expense
Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed-for-floating interest rate swaps
 

 

 

 

 
1

 
3

 
Net interest expense
Non-derivatives in net investment hedging relationships:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net investment hedges (pre-tax)
 
(18
)
 

 

 

 

 

 
N/A
Nonqualifying derivatives(1):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign Exchange Contracts
 

 

 

 

 
(6
)
 
9

 
Other (income) charges, net

(1) 
The gains or losses on nonqualifying derivatives or derivatives that are not designated as hedges are marked to market and represent foreign exchange derivatives denominated in multiple currencies and are transacted and settled in the same quarter.

Pre-tax monetized positions and mark-to-market gains and losses from raw materials and energy, currency, and certain interest rate hedges that were included in AOCI included losses of $116 million at March 31, 2017 and losses of $400 million at March 31, 2016. Losses in AOCI decreased March 31, 2017 compared to March 31, 2016 primarily as a result of an increase in commodity prices, particularly propane, and a decrease in foreign currency exchange rates, particularly the euro. If realized, approximately $30 million in pre-tax losses, as of March 31, 2017, will be reclassified into earnings during the next 12 months.


14


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Any ineffective portions of the hedging programs are immediately recognized in earnings. The Company recognized pre-tax losses for ineffectiveness of the commodity hedging portfolio of $1 million and $2 million during first quarter 2017 and 2016, respectively. With the exception of the ineffectiveness on the commodity hedging portfolio, there was no material ineffectiveness of the remaining hedging programs during first quarter 2017 and 2016.

7.
RETIREMENT PLANS

Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

Eastman maintains defined benefit pension plans that provide eligible employees with retirement benefits. In addition, Eastman provides life insurance for eligible retirees hired prior to January 1, 2007. Eastman provides a subsidy for pre-Medicare health care and dental benefits to eligible retirees hired prior to January 1, 2007 that will end on December 31, 2021. Company funding is also provided for eligible Medicare retirees hired prior to January 1, 2007 with a health reimbursement arrangement. Costs recognized for these benefits are estimated amounts, which may change as actual costs derived for the year are determined.

For additional information regarding retirement plans, see Note 11, "Retirement Plans", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Components of net periodic benefit (credit) cost were as follows:
 
First Quarter
 
Pension Plans
 
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
(Dollars in millions)
U.S.
 
Non-U.S.
 
U.S.
 
Non-U.S.
 
 
 
 
Components of net periodic benefit (credit) cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
9

 
$
3

 
$
10

 
$
3

 
$
1

 
$
2

Interest cost
17

 
5

 
18

 
6

 
6

 
7

Expected return on assets
(35
)
 
(8
)
 
(34
)
 
(8
)
 
(2
)
 
(2
)
Amortization of:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service credit, net
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
 

 
(10
)
 
(10
)
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost
$
(10
)
 
$

 
$
(7
)
 
$
1

 
$
(5
)
 
$
(3
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




15


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

8.
COMMITMENTS AND OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Purchase Obligations and Lease Commitments
 
The Company had various purchase obligations at March 31, 2017, totaling approximately $3 billion over a period of approximately 30 years for materials, supplies, and energy incident to the ordinary conduct of business. The Company also had various lease commitments for property and equipment under cancelable, noncancelable, and month-to-month operating leases totaling $272 million over a period of approximately 40 years. Of the total lease commitments, approximately 45 percent relate to real property, including office space, storage facilities, and land; approximately 40 percent relate to railcars; and approximately 15 percent relate to machinery and equipment, including computer and communications equipment and production equipment.

Guarantees

The Company has operating leases with terms that require the Company to guarantee a portion of the residual value of the leased assets upon termination of the lease as well as other guarantees. Disclosures about each group of similar guarantees are provided below.

Residual Value Guarantees

The Company has operating leases with terms that require the Company to guarantee a portion of the residual value of the leased assets upon termination of the lease. These residual value guarantees totaled $88 million at March 31, 2017 and consist primarily of leases for railcars that will expire beginning in second quarter 2017. Residual guarantee payments that become probable and estimable are recognized as rent expense over the remaining life of the applicable lease. Management's current expectation is that the likelihood of material residual guarantee payments is remote.

Other Guarantees

Guarantees and claims also arise during the ordinary course of business from relationships with customers, suppliers, joint venture partners, and other parties when the Company undertakes an obligation to guarantee the performance of others if specified triggering events occur. Non-performance under a contract could trigger an obligation of the Company. The Company's current other guarantees include guarantees relating to intellectual property, environmental matters, and other indemnifications and have arisen through the normal course of business. The ultimate effect on future financial results is not subject to reasonable estimation because considerable uncertainty exists as to the final outcome of these claims, if they were to occur. These other guarantees have terms up to 30 years with maximum potential future payments of approximately $35 million in the aggregate, with none of these guarantees being individually significant to the Company's operating results, financial position, or liquidity. Management's current expectation is that future payment or performance related to non-performance under other guarantees is remote.

Other Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has rights and obligations under non-recourse factoring facilities that have a combined limit of €150 million ($160 million) as of March 31, 2017 and are committed until December 2017. These arrangements include receivables in the United States, Belgium, and Finland, and are subject to various eligibility requirements. The Company sells the receivables at face value but receives funding (approximately 85 percent) net of a deposit amount until collections are received from customers for the receivables sold. The total amounts of cumulative receivables sold in first three months 2017 and 2016 were approximately $250 million and $235 million, respectively. As part of the program, the Company continues to service the sold receivables at market rates with no servicing assets or liabilities recognized. The amounts of sold receivables outstanding under the non-recourse factoring facilities were $120 million and $99 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The fair value of the receivables sold equals the carrying value at the time of the sale, and no gain or loss is recognized. The Company is exposed to a credit loss of up to 10 percent on sold receivables.


16


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

9.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS AND ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

Certain Eastman manufacturing sites generate hazardous and nonhazardous wastes, the treatment, storage, transportation, and disposal of which are regulated by various governmental agencies. In connection with the cleanup of various hazardous waste sites, the Company, along with many other entities, has been designated a potentially responsible party ("PRP") by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, which potentially subjects PRPs to joint and several liability for such cleanup costs. In addition, the Company will incur costs for environmental remediation and closure and post-closure under the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. Reserves for environmental contingencies have been established in accordance with Eastman's policies described in Note 1, "Significant Accounting Policies", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Although the resolution of uncertainties related to these environmental matters may have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations in the period recognized, because of the availability of legal defenses, the Company's preliminary assessment of actions that may be required, and if applicable the expected sharing of costs, management does not believe that the Company's liability for these environmental matters, individually or in the aggregate, will be material to the Company's consolidated financial position or cash flows. The Company's total reserve for environmental contingencies was $318 million and $321 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. At both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, this reserve included $8 million related to sites previously closed and impaired by Eastman and sites that have been divested by Eastman but for which the Company retains the environmental liability related to these sites.

The Company's total environmental reserve that management believes to be probable and estimable for environmental contingencies, including remediation costs and asset retirement obligations, is included as part of "Payables and other current liabilities" and "Other long-term liabilities" in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as follows:
(Dollars in millions)
March 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Environmental contingent liabilities, current
$
30

 
$
30

Environmental contingent liabilities, long-term
288

 
291

Total
$
318

 
$
321


Remediation

Estimated future environmental expenditures for undiscounted remediation costs ranged from the best estimate or minimum of $291 million to the maximum of $497 million and from the best estimate or minimum of $295 million to the maximum of $503 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The estimated future costs are considered to be reasonably possible and include the amounts recognized at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Reserves for environmental remediation include liabilities expected to be paid within approximately 30 years. The amounts charged to pre-tax earnings for environmental remediation and related charges are included within "Cost of sales" in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings, Comprehensive Income and Retained Earnings. Changes in the reserves for environmental remediation liabilities during first three months 2017 are summarized below:
(Dollars in millions)
Environmental Remediation Liabilities
Balance at December 31, 2016
$
295

Changes in estimates recognized in earnings and other
2

Cash reductions
(6
)
Balance at March 31, 2017
$
291



17


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Closure/Post-Closure

An asset retirement obligation is an obligation for the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset that is incurred upon the acquisition, construction, development, or normal operation of that long-lived asset. The Company recognizes asset retirement obligations in the period in which they are incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The asset retirement obligations are discounted to expected present value and subsequently adjusted for changes in fair value. The associated estimated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying value of the long-lived assets and depreciated over their useful life. Environmental asset retirement obligations consist primarily of closure and post-closure costs. For sites that have environmental asset retirement obligations, the best estimate recognized to date over the sites' estimated useful lives for these environmental asset retirement obligation costs was $27 million and $26 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. 

Other

The Company has contractual asset retirement obligations not associated with environmental liabilities. Eastman's non-environmental asset retirement obligations are primarily associated with the future closure of leased manufacturing assets at Pace, Florida and Oulu, Finland. These recognized non-environmental asset retirement obligations were $46 million at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

10.
LEGAL MATTERS

From time to time, the Company and its operations are parties to, or targets of, lawsuits, claims, investigations and proceedings, including product liability, personal injury, asbestos, patent and intellectual property, commercial, contract, environmental, antitrust, health and safety, and employment matters, which are being handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. While the Company is unable to predict the outcome of these matters, it does not believe, based upon currently available facts, that the ultimate resolution of any such pending matters will have a material adverse effect on its overall financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

11.
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

A reconciliation of the changes in stockholders' equity for first three months 2017 is provided below:
(Dollars in millions)
Common Stock at Par Value
 
Paid-in Capital
 
Retained Earnings
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Treasury Stock at Cost
 
Total Stockholders' Equity Attributed to Eastman
 
Noncontrolling Interest
 
Total Stockholders' Equity
Balance at December 31, 2016
$
2

 
$
1,915

 
$
5,721

 
$
(281
)
 
$
(2,825
)
 
$
4,532

 
$
76

 
$
4,608

Net Earnings

 

 
278

 

 

 
278

 
1

 
279

Cash Dividends Declared (1)
($0.51 per share)

 

 
(74
)
 

 

 
(74
)
 

 
(74
)
Other Comprehensive Income

 

 

 
(25
)
 

 
(25
)
 

 
(25
)
Share-Based Compensation Expense (2)

 
14

 

 

 

 
14

 

 
14

Stock Option Exercises

 
6

 

 

 

 
6

 

 
6

Other

 
(5
)
 

 

 

 
(5
)
 
(1
)
 
(6
)
Share Repurchases

 

 

 

 
(75
)
 
(75
)
 

 
(75
)
Balance at March 31, 2017
$
2

 
$
1,930

 
$
5,925

 
$
(306
)
 
$
(2,900
)
 
$
4,651

 
$
76

 
$
4,727


(1) 
Cash dividends declared includes cash dividends paid and dividends declared, but unpaid.
(2) 
Share-based compensation expense is the fair value of share-based awards.


18


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in millions)
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
 
Benefit Plans Unrecognized Prior Service Credits
 
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivative Instruments
 
Unrealized Losses on Investments
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$
(284
)
 
$
129

 
$
(234
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(390
)
Period change
(97
)
 
34

 
172

 

 
109

Balance at December 31, 2016
(381
)
 
163

 
(62
)
 
(1
)
 
(281
)
Period change
7

 
(7
)
 
(25
)
 

 
(25
)
Balance at March 31, 2017
$
(374
)
 
$
156

 
$
(87
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(306
)

Amounts of other comprehensive income (loss) are presented net of applicable taxes. The Company recognizes deferred income taxes on the cumulative translation adjustment related to branch operations and income from other entities included in the Company's consolidated U.S. tax return. No deferred income taxes are provided on the cumulative translation adjustment of other subsidiaries outside the United States, as such cumulative translation adjustment is considered to be a component of indefinitely invested, unremitted earnings of these foreign subsidiaries.

Components of other comprehensive income recognized in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings, Comprehensive Income and Retained Earnings are presented below, before tax and net of tax effects:
 
First Quarter
 
2017
 
2016
(Dollars in millions)
Before Tax
 
Net of Tax
 
Before Tax
 
Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in cumulative translation adjustment
$
7

 
$
7

 
$
106

 
$
106

Defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Amortization of unrecognized prior service credits included in net periodic costs (1)
(11
)
 
(7
)
 
(11
)
 
(7
)
Derivatives and hedging: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Unrealized loss during period
(34
)
 
(21
)
 
(30
)
 
(18
)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net
(6
)
 
(4
)
 
7

 
4

Total other comprehensive income (loss)
$
(44
)
 
$
(25
)
 
$
72

 
$
85


(1) 
Included in the calculation of net periodic benefit costs for pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 7, "Retirement Plans".
(2) 
For additional information regarding the impact of reclassifications into earnings, see Note 6, "Derivative and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments".


19


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

12.
EARNINGS AND DIVIDENDS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS"):
 
First Quarter
(In millions, except per share amounts)
2017
 
2016
Numerator
 
 
 
Earnings attributable to Eastman:
 
 
 
Earnings, net of tax
$
278

 
$
251

 
 
 
 
Denominator
 
 
 
Weighted average shares used for basic EPS
146.2

 
147.8

Dilutive effect of stock options and other awards
1.0

 
1.0

Weighted average shares used for diluted EPS
147.2

 
148.8

 
 
 
 
(Calculated using whole dollars and shares)
 
 
 
EPS
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.90

 
$
1.70

Diluted
$
1.89

 
$
1.69


In first quarter 2017 and 2016, options to purchase 1,008,667 and 1,081,423 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the shares treated as outstanding for computation of diluted earnings per share because the total market value of option exercises for these awards was less than the total cash proceeds that would be received for these exercises. First quarter 2017 and 2016 reflect the impact of share repurchases of 943,699 and 287,281, respectively.

The Company declared cash dividends of $0.51 and $0.46 per share in first quarter 2017 and 2016, respectively.

13.
ASSET IMPAIRMENTS AND RESTRUCTURING
 
 
 
 
In first quarter 2017, there were no asset impairment and restructuring charges. In first quarter 2016, there was a gain of $2 million in the Additives & Functional Products segment for the sale of previously impaired assets at the Crystex® insoluble sulfur R&D site in France.

Changes in Reserves for Asset Impairments, Restructuring Charges, Net, and Severance Charges

The following table summarizes the changes in asset impairments and restructuring charges and gains, the non-cash reductions attributable to asset impairments, and the cash reductions in restructuring reserves for severance costs and site closure costs paid in first three months 2017 and full year 2016:
(Dollars in millions)
Balance at January 1, 2017
 
Provision/ Adjustments
 
Non-cash Reductions/
Additions
 
Cash Reductions
 
Balance at March 31, 2017
Severance costs
$
42

 
$

 
$

 
$
(17
)
 
$
25

Site closure and restructuring costs
13

 

 

 

 
13

Total
$
55

 
$

 
$

 
$
(17
)
 
$
38



20


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


(Dollars in millions)
Balance at January 1, 2016
 
Provision/ Adjustments
 
Non-cash Reductions/
Additions
 
Cash Reductions
 
Balance at December 31, 2016
Non-cash charges
$

 
$
12

 
$
(12
)
 
$

 
$

Severance costs
55

 
32

 

 
(45
)
 
42

Site closure and restructuring costs
11

 
1

 
4

 
(3
)
 
13

Total
$
66

 
$
45

 
$
(8
)
 
$
(48
)
 
$
55


Substantially all severance costs remaining are expected to be applied to the reserves within one year.

14.
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION AWARDS

The Company utilizes share-based awards under employee and non-employee director compensation programs. These share-based awards may include restricted and unrestricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, and performance shares. In first quarter 2017 and 2016, $14 million and $13 million, respectively, of compensation expense before tax were recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses" in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings, Comprehensive Income and Retained Earnings for all share-based awards of which $3 million in both periods related to stock options. The compensation expense is recognized over the substantive vesting period, which may be a shorter time period than the stated vesting period for qualifying termination eligible employees as defined in the forms of award notice. For both first quarter 2017 and 2016, $2 million of stock option compensation expense was recognized due to qualifying termination eligibility preceding the requisite vesting period. The impact on first quarter 2017 and 2016 net earnings of $9 million and $8 million, respectively, is net of deferred tax expense related to share-based award compensation for each period.

Stock Option Grants

In first quarter 2017 and 2016, the number of stock options granted under the 2012 Omnibus Stock Compensation Plan were approximately 746,000 and 550,000, respectively. Options have an exercise price equal to the closing price of the Company's stock on the date of grant. The term of options is 10 years with vesting periods that vary up to three years. Vesting usually occurs ratably over the vesting period or at the end of the vesting period. The Company utilizes the Black Scholes Merton option valuation model which relies on certain assumptions to estimate an option's fair value.
 
The assumptions used in the determination of fair value for stock options granted in first quarter 2017 and 2016 are provided in the table below:
 
 
First Quarter
Assumptions
 
2017
 
2016
Expected volatility rate
 
20.45%
 
23.71%
Expected dividend yield
 
2.64%
 
2.31%
Average risk-free interest rate
 
1.91%
 
1.23%
Expected term years
 
5.1
 
5.0

The grant date exercise price and fair value of options granted during first quarter 2017 were $80.25 and $11.79, respectively, and during first quarter 2016 were $65.16 and $10.97, respectively.

For options unvested at March 31, 2017, $8 million in compensation expense will be recognized over the next three years.


21


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Other Share-Based Compensation Awards

In addition to stock option grants, the Company has awarded long-term performance share awards, restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards, and stock appreciation rights. The long-term performance share awards are based upon actual return on capital compared to a target return on capital and total stockholder return compared to a peer group ranking by total stockholder return over a three year performance period. The awards are valued using a Monte Carlo Simulation based model and vest pro-ratably over the three year performance period. The number of long-term performance share target awards during first quarter 2017 and 2016 for the 2017-2019 and 2016-2018 periods were approximately 360,000 and 400,000, respectively. The target shares awarded are assumed to be 100 percent. At the end of the three-year performance period, the actual number of shares awarded can range from zero percent to 250 percent of the target shares based on the award notice. The number of restricted stock unit awards during first quarter 2017 and 2016 were approximately 150,000 and 160,000, respectively. The fair value of a restricted stock unit award is equal to the closing stock price of the Company's stock on the award date and normally vests over a period of three years. In first quarter 2017 and 2016, $11 million and $10 million, respectively, was recognized as compensation expense before tax for these other share-based awards and was included in the total compensation expense noted above for all share-based awards. The unrecognized compensation expense before tax for these same type awards at March 31, 2017 was $86 million and will be recognized primarily over a period of three years.

For additional information regarding share-based compensation plans and awards, see Note 18, "Share-Based Compensation Plans and Awards", to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

15.
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

Included in the line item "Other items, net" of the "Operating activities" section of the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows are the following changes to Unaudited Consolidated Statement of Financial Position:
(Dollars in millions)
First Three Months
 
2017
 
2016
Other current assets
$
5

 
$

Other noncurrent assets
9

 
38

Payables and other current liabilities
(36
)
 
24

Long-term liabilities and equity
(4
)
 
(78
)
Total
$
(26
)
 
$
(16
)

The above changes resulted primarily from accrued taxes, deferred taxes, environmental liabilities, monetized positions from raw material and energy, currency, and certain interest rate hedges, prepaid insurance, miscellaneous deferrals, value-added taxes, and other miscellaneous accruals.


22


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

16.
SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company's products and operations are managed and reported in four operating segments: Additives & Functional Products ("AFP"), Advanced Materials ("AM"), Chemical Intermediates ("CI"), and Fibers. For additional financial and product information for each segment, see Part 1, Item 1, Business -- Business Segments and Part II, Item 8, Note 20, "Segment Information", in the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Sales
 
 
 
Additives & Functional Products
$
773

 
$
737

Advanced Materials
634

 
589

Chemical Intermediates
670

 
620

Fibers
213

 
280

Total Sales by Segment
2,290

 
2,226

Other
13

 
10

Total Sales
$
2,303

 
$
2,236


 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Operating Earnings (Loss)
 
 
 
Additives & Functional Products
$
152

 
$
153

Advanced Materials
121

 
108

Chemical Intermediates
82

 
67

Fibers
52

 
86

Total Operating Earnings by Segment
407

 
414

Other
 

 
 

Growth initiatives and businesses not allocated to segments
(28
)
 
(18
)
Pension and other postretirement benefits income, net not allocated to operating segments
18

 
12

Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
(9
)
Total Operating Earnings
$
397

 
$
399




23


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Assets by Segment (1)
 
 
 
Additives & Functional Products
$
6,397

 
$
6,255

Advanced Materials
4,318

 
4,247

Chemical Intermediates
2,971

 
2,927

Fibers
955

 
920

Total Assets by Segment
14,641

 
14,349

Corporate Assets
1,114

 
1,108

Total Assets
$
15,755

 
$
15,457


(1) 
Segment assets include accounts receivable, inventory, fixed assets, goodwill, and intangible assets. Segment asset balances for shared fixed assets within the CI and Fibers segments as of December 31, 2016 have been reclassified to conform to current period allocation methodology.

17.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") and International Accounting Standards Board jointly issued new principles-based accounting guidance for revenue recognition that provides a five-step process to the principles-based guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued new guidance to delay the effective date of the new revenue standard by one year. The deferral results in the new revenue standard being effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is permitted under the original effective date of fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. In April 2016, the FASB issued clarifying guidance to the 2014 revenue standard in regards to the identification of performance obligations and licensing. In May 2016, the FASB issued narrow-scope improvements and practical expedients to the new revenue standard that include clarification of the collectability criterion, specification for the measurement of noncash considerations, clarifies a completed contract for transition purposes and clarification in regards to the retrospective application, as well as, policy elections, and practical expedients. In December 2016, the FASB issued additional corrections and improvements that affect various narrow aspects of the guidance. The effective date for all amendments is the same as that of the revenue standard stated above. Management does not expect that changes in its accounting required by this new guidance will materially impact the Company's financial position or results of operations and related disclosures. Management plans to adopt the new guidance January 1, 2018, and anticipates adopting retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented with the election of applicable practical expedients.

In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance on lease accounting. The new guidance establishes two types of leases for lessees: finance and operating. Both finance and operating leases will have associated right-of-use assets and liabilities initially measured at the present value of the lease payments. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period and early adoption is permitted. The new guidance is to be applied under a modified retrospective approach wherein practical expedients have been allowed that will not require reassessment of current leases at the effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations and related disclosures.

In June 2016, the FASB issued guidance relating to credit losses. The amendments require a financial asset (including trade receivables) to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected through the use of allowances for credit losses valuation account. The income statement will reflect the measurement of credit losses for newly recognized financial assets, as well as the expected increases or decreases of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within that reporting period and early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period, beginning after December 15, 2018. The new guidance application is mixed among the various elements that include modified retrospective and prospective transition methods. Management is currently evaluating the impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations and related disclosures.


24


NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In October 2016, the FASB issued guidance as a part of its simplification initiative in regards to income tax of intra-entity asset transfers. The release requires an entity to recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. Consequently, the amendments eliminate the exception for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory that prohibited recognizing current and deferred income tax consequences for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset or assets have been sold to an outside party. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods and early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual reporting period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The new guidance is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Management is currently evaluating the impact on the Company's related disclosures.

In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance clarifying the definition of a business that provides a two-step analysis in the determination of whether an acquisition or derecognition is a business or an asset. The update removes the evaluation of whether a market participant could replace any missing elements and provides a framework to assist entities in evaluating whether both an input and a substantive process are present. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods and early adoption is permitted for transactions that meet specified criteria. This guidance is to be applied on a prospective basis for transactions that occur after the effective date.

In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance as a part of its simplification initiative that bases the impairment of goodwill on any difference for which the carrying value is greater than the fair value of the reporting unit. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods, or interim period testing performed, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment testing performed after January 1, 2017. This guidance is to be applied on a prospective basis for goodwill testing that occur after the effective date.

In February 2017, the FASB issued guidance that clarifies the scope of nonfinancial asset derecognition and the accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets. This guidance is effective at the same time as the amendments in the revenue recognition standard stated above, for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017, and must be applied in conjunction with that standard. Adoption can be applied either on a retrospective or modified retrospective approach. Management is currently evaluating the impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations and related disclosures.

In March 2017, the FASB issued guidance to improve the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs that will require the reporting of the service cost component in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net benefit cost (interest cost, expected return on plan assets, curtailment gains or losses, amortization of prior service costs or credits, and mark-to-market gains or losses) are to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside the subtotal of income from operations. In addition, the amendment prescribes only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods and early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The new guidance is to be applied retrospectively for income statement effect and prospectively for balance sheet effects. Management is currently evaluating the impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations and related disclosures.

25



ITEM 2.
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 ("MD&A") is based upon the consolidated financial statements of Eastman Chemical Company ("Eastman" or the "Company"), which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted ("GAAP") in the United States, and should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial statements, including related notes, and MD&A contained in the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements, including related notes, included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. All references to earnings per share ("EPS") contained in this report are diluted EPS unless otherwise noted.
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, the Company's management must make decisions which impact the reported amounts and the related disclosures. Such decisions include the selection of the appropriate accounting principles to be applied and assumptions on which to base estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, sales revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to impairment of long-lived assets, environmental costs, pension and other postretirement benefits, litigation and contingent liabilities, and income taxes. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The Company's management believes the critical accounting estimates described in Part II, Item 7 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K are the most important to the fair presentation of the Company's financial condition and results. These estimates require management's most significant judgments in the preparation of the Company's consolidated financial statements.


26

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

Non-GAAP financial measures, and the accompanying reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP measures, are presented in "Overview", "Results of Operations", "Summary by Operating Segment", and "2017 Outlook" in this MD&A.

Company Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Non-Core Items and any Unusual or Non-Recurring Items

In addition to evaluating the Company's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows as reported in accordance with GAAP, Eastman management also evaluates Company and operating segment performance, and makes resource allocation and performance evaluation decisions, excluding the effect of transactions, costs, and losses or gains that do not directly arise from Eastman's normal, or "core", business and operations, or are otherwise of an unusual or non-recurring nature. These transactions, costs, and losses or gains relate to, among other things, cost reductions, growth and profitability improvement initiatives, and other events outside of core business operations (such as asset impairments and restructuring charges and gains, costs of and related to acquisitions, gains and losses from and costs related to dispositions of businesses, financing transaction costs, and mark-to-market losses or gains for pension and other postretirement benefit plans). Because non-core, unusual, or non-recurring transactions, costs, and losses or gains may materially affect the Company's, or any particular operating segment's, financial condition or results in a specific period in which they are recognized, Eastman believes it is appropriate to evaluate both the financial measures prepared and calculated in accordance with GAAP and the related non-GAAP financial measures excluding the effect on our results of these non-core, unusual, or non-recurring items. In addition to using such measures to evaluate results in a specific period, management evaluates such non-GAAP measures, and believes that investors may also evaluate such measures, because such measures may provide more complete and consistent comparisons of the Company's, and its segments', operational performance on a period-over-period historical basis and, as a result, provide a better indication of expected future trends.

Adjusted Tax Rate and Provision for Income Taxes

For interim periods beginning first quarter 2017, the Company will disclose non-GAAP earnings with an adjusted effective tax rate and a resulting adjusted provision for income taxes using the Company's then current forecasted tax rate for the full year. The adjusted effective tax rate and resulting adjusted provision for income taxes are equal to the Company's projected full year effective tax rate and provision for income taxes on earnings excluding non-core items for completed periods. The adjusted effective tax rate and resulting adjusted provision for income taxes may fluctuate during the year for changes in events and circumstances that change the Company's forecasted annual effective tax rate and resulting provision for income taxes excluding non-core items. Management discloses this adjusted effective tax rate, and the related reconciliation to the GAAP effective tax rate, to provide investors more complete and consistent comparisons of the Company's operational performance on a period-over-period interim basis and on the same basis as management evaluates quarterly financial results to provide a better indication of expected full year results. The Company did not forecast a full year effective tax rate or provision for income taxes on this basis in prior periods, and accordingly is not presenting an adjusted effective tax rate or provision for income taxes for periods prior to first quarter 2017.

Management discloses these non-GAAP measures, and the related reconciliations to the most comparable GAAP financial measures, because it believes investors use these metrics in evaluating longer term period-over-period performance, and to allow investors to better understand and evaluate the information used by management to assess the Company's, and its operating segments', performance, make resource allocation decisions and evaluate organizational and individual performance in determining certain performance-based compensation. Non-GAAP measures do not have definitions under GAAP, and may be defined differently by, and not be comparable to, similarly titled measures used by other companies. As a result, management cautions investors not to place undue reliance on any non-GAAP measure, but to consider such measures with the most directly comparable GAAP measure.


27

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Non-GAAP Measures in this Quarterly Report

The non-core items excluded by management in its evaluation of certain results in this Quarterly Report are described, and these non-core items and adjustments to provision for income taxes are quantified, below:

Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net, of which asset impairments are non-cash transactions impacting profitability;
Acquisition integration and transaction costs; and
Cost of disposition of claims against operations that were discontinued by Solutia, Inc., ("Solutia") prior to the Company's acquisition of Solutia in 2012.

Excluded Non-Core Items and Adjustments to Provision for Income Taxes
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Non-core items impacting operating earnings:
 
 
 
Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net
$

 
$
(2
)
Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
9

Total non-core items impacting operating earnings

 
7

Non-core items impacting earnings before income taxes:
 
 
 
Cost of disposition of claims against discontinued Solutia operations

 
5

Total non-core items impacting earnings before income taxes

 
5

Less: Items impacting provision for income taxes:
 
 
 
Tax provision for non-core items

 
8

Adjustment to tax provision
9

 

Total items impacting provision for income taxes
9

 
8

Total items impacting net earnings attributable to Eastman
$
(9
)
 
$
4


This MD&A includes an analysis of the effect of the foregoing on the following GAAP financial measures:

Gross profit,
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses,
Operating earnings,
Other (income) charges, net,
Provision for income taxes,
Net earnings attributable to Eastman, and
Diluted earnings per share.

Other Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Alternative Non-GAAP Cash Flow Measures

In addition to the non-GAAP measures presented in this Quarterly Report and other periodic reports, from time to time management evaluates and discloses to investors and securities analysts the non-GAAP measure cash provided by operating activities excluding certain non-core, unusual, or non-recurring items ("cash provided by operating activities, as adjusted") when analyzing, among other things, business performance, liquidity and financial position, and performance-based compensation. Management uses this non-GAAP measure in conjunction with the GAAP measure cash provided by operating activities because it believes it is a more appropriate metric to evaluate the cash flows from Eastman's core operations that are available for organic and inorganic growth initiatives and because it allows for a more consistent period-over-period presentation of such amounts. In its evaluation, management generally excludes the impact of certain non-core activities and decisions of management because such activities and decisions are not considered core, ongoing components of operations and the decisions to undertake or not to undertake such activities may be made irrespective of the cash generated from operations. From time to time, management discloses this non-GAAP measure and the related reconciliation to investors and securities

28

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


analysts to allow them to better understand and evaluate the information used by management in its decision-making processes and because management believes investors and securities analysts use similar measures to assess Company performance, liquidity, and financial position over multiple periods and to compare these with other companies.

Similarly, from time to time, Eastman may disclose to investors and securities analysts an alternative non-GAAP measure of "free cash flow", which management defines as cash provided by operating activities, as adjusted, described above, less the amount of capital expenditures. Management believes such items are generally funded from available cash and, as such, should be considered in determining free cash flow. Management believes this is an appropriate metric to assess the Company's ability to fund priorities for uses of cash. The priorities for cash after funding operations include payment of quarterly dividends, additional repayment of debt, inorganic growth opportunities, and from time to time repurchasing shares. Management believes this metric is useful to investors and securities analysts in order to provide them with information similar to that used by management in evaluating financial performance and potential future cash available for various initiatives and assessing organizational performance in determining certain performance-based compensation and because management believes investors and securities analysts often use a similar measure of free cash flow to compare the results, and value, of comparable companies. In addition, Eastman may disclose to investors and securities analysts an alternative non-GAAP measure of "free cash flow yield", which management defines as annual free cash flow divided by the Company's market capitalization. Management believes this metric is useful to investors and securities analysts in comparing cash flow generation with that of peer and other companies.

Alternative Non-GAAP Earnings Measures

From time to time, Eastman may also disclose to investors and securities analysts the non-GAAP earnings measures "Adjusted EBITDA", "EBITDA Margin", and "Return on Invested Capital" (or "ROIC"). Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA (net earnings or net earnings per share before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) adjusted to exclude the same non-core, unusual, and non-recurring items as are excluded from the Company's other non-GAAP earnings measures for the same periods. EBITDA Margin is Adjusted EBITDA divided by the GAAP measure sales revenue in the Company's income statement for the same periods. Management defines ROIC as net income plus interest expense after tax divided by average total borrowings plus average stockholders' equity for the periods presented, each derived from the GAAP measures in the Company's financial statements for the periods presented. Management believes that Adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA Margin, and ROIC are useful as supplemental measures in evaluating the performance of and returns from Eastman's operating businesses, and from time to time uses such measures in internal performance calculations. Further, management understands that investors and securities analysts often use similar measures of Adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA Margin, and ROIC to compare the results, returns, and value of the Company with those of other companies.


29

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


OVERVIEW

The Company's products and operations are managed and reported in four operating segments: Additives & Functional Products ("AFP"), Advanced Materials ("AM"), Chemical Intermediates ("CI"), and Fibers. Eastman is focused on consistent earnings growth through a market-driven approach that takes advantage of the Company's existing technology platforms, global market and manufacturing presence, and leading positions in key end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Management believes that the Company's end-market diversity is a source of strength, and that many of the markets into which the Company's products are sold are benefiting from longer-term global trends such as energy efficiency, a rising middle class in emerging economies, and an increased focus on health and wellness. Management believes that these trends, combined with the diversity of the Company's end markets, facilitate more consistent demand for the Company's products over time.

The Company generated sales revenue of $2.3 billion and $2.2 billion in first quarter 2017 and 2016, respectively. Sales revenue increased $67 million in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016, as increases in the AM, CI, and AFP segments were partially offset by a decline in the Fibers segment.

Operating earnings were $397 million in first quarter 2017 compared with $399 million in first quarter 2016. Excluding the non-core items identified in "Non-GAAP Financial Measures", operating earnings in first quarter 2016 were $406 million. Adjusted operating earnings decreased in first quarter 2017 as increases in the AM and CI segments were more than offset by a decline in the Fibers segment.

Net earnings attributable to Eastman and EPS and adjusted net earnings and EPS were as follows:
 
First Quarter
 
2017
 
2016
(Dollars in millions, except diluted EPS)
$
 
EPS
 
$
 
EPS
Net earnings attributable to Eastman
$
278

 
$
1.89

 
$
251

 
$
1.69

Total non-core items, net of tax (1)

 
 
 
4

 
 
Adjustment to tax provision (1)
(9
)
 
 
 

 
 
Adjusted net earnings
$
269

 
$
1.83

 
$
255

 
$
1.71


(1) 
See "Results of Operations - Provision for Income Taxes" for adjusted provision for income taxes for first quarter 2017 and the tax effected amount of total non-core items for first quarter 2016.

The Company generated $52 million in cash from operating activities in first three months 2017.


30

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Sales
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 $
 
%
Sales
$
2,303

 
$
2,236

 
$
67

 
3
 %
Volume / product mix effect
 
 
 
 
81

 
4
 %
Price effect
 
 
 
 
4

 
 %
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
(18
)
 
(1
)%

Sales revenue increased $67 million in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016 as increases in the AM, CI, and AFP segments were partially offset by a decline in the Fibers segment.

Gross Profit
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Gross Profit
$
625

 
$
634

 
(1
)%

Gross profit decreased slightly in first quarter 2017 compared with first quarter 2016 as increases in the AM and CI segments were more than offset by a decline in the Fibers segment. Gross profit in 2017 includes the benefit of lower labor and manufacturing costs from corporate cost reduction actions taken in 2016.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
$
174

 
$
183

 
(5
)%
Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
(9
)
 
 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses excluding non-core items
$
174

 
$
174

 
 %

Included in first quarter 2016 SG&A expenses are transaction costs for final resolution of the 2011 Sterling Chemicals, Inc. acquisition purchase price and integration costs for the Commonwealth Laminating & Coating, Inc. ("Commonwealth") business acquired in December 2014.

Research and Development Expenses
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Research and Development Expenses
$
54

 
$
54

 
%

Asset Impairments and Restructuring
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Gain on sale of assets
$

 
$
(2
)
Total
$

 
$
(2
)

In first quarter 2016 there was a gain of $2 million in the AFP segment for the sale of previously impaired assets at the Crystex® insoluble sulfur research and development ("R&D") site in France.


31

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


For more information regarding asset impairments and restructuring charges and gains see Note 13, "Asset Impairments and Restructuring", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Operating Earnings
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Operating earnings
$
397

 
$
399

 
(1
)%
Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net

 
(2
)
 
 
Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
9

 
 
Operating earnings excluding non-core items
$
397

 
$
406

 
(2
)%

Net Interest Expense
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Gross interest costs
$
68

 
$
73

 
 
Less: Capitalized interest
2

 
3

 
 
Interest expense
66

 
70

 
(6
)%
Less: Interest income
6

 
6

 
 

Net interest expense
$
60

 
$
64

 
(6
)%

Net interest expense decreased in first quarter 2017 compared with first quarter 2016 as a result of the refinancing in 2016 of certain outstanding public debt with proceeds of the sale of new debt securities and term loan borrowings.

Other (Income) Charges, Net
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Foreign exchange transaction (gains) losses, net
$
(1
)
 
$
11

(Income) loss from equity investments and other investment (gains) losses, net
(3
)
 
(2
)
Other, net

 
3

Other (income) charges, net
$
(4
)
 
$
12

Cost of disposition of claims against discontinued Solutia operations

 
(5
)
Other (income) charges, net excluding non-core item
$
(4
)
 
$
7


Included in other (income) charges, net are losses or gains on foreign exchange transactions, equity investments, business venture investments, and non-operating assets. In first quarter 2016, foreign exchange transaction (gains) losses, net, included the revaluation of foreign entity assets and liabilities losses partially offset by gains from certain derivative instruments, both items impacted primarily by the euro. See Note 6, "Derivative and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

First quarter 2016 other (income) charges, net also included cost of disposition of claims against operations that were discontinued by Solutia prior to the Company's acquisition of Solutia in 2012.


32

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Provision for Income Taxes
 
First Quarter
 
2017
 
2016
(Dollars in millions)
$
 
%
 
$
 
%
Provision for income taxes and effective tax rate
$
62

 
18
%
 
$
72

 
22
%
Tax provision for non-core items (1)

 
 
 
8

 
 
Adjustment to tax provision (2)
9

 
 
 

 
 
Adjusted provision for income taxes and effective tax rate
$
71

 
21
%
 
$
80

 
24
%

(1) 
Provision for income taxes for non-core items is calculated using the tax rate for the jurisdiction where the gains are taxable and the expenses are deductible.
(2) 
The adjusted provision for income taxes for first quarter 2017 is calculated applying the forecasted full year effective tax rate as shown below.
 
First Quarter
 
2017
Effective tax rate
18
 %
Discrete tax items (1)
5
 %
Changes in tax contingencies and valuation allowances
(1
)%
Forecasted full year impact of expected tax events
(1
)%
Forecasted full year effective tax rate
21
 %

(1) 
"Discrete tax items" are items that are excluded from a company's estimated annual effective tax rate and recognized entirely in the quarter in which the item occurs. First quarter 2017 discrete items consist of planned amendments to and finalization of prior years' income tax returns.

Net Earnings and Diluted Earnings per Share
 
First Quarter
 
2017
(Dollars in millions, except diluted EPS)
$
 
EPS
Net earnings and diluted earnings per share attributable to Eastman
$
278

 
$
1.89

Less: Adjustment to tax provision
9

 
 
Adjusted net earnings and diluted earnings per share
$
269

 
$
1.83


 
First Quarter
 
2016
(Dollars in millions, except diluted EPS)
$
 
EPS
Net earnings and diluted earnings per share attributable to Eastman
$
251

 
$
1.69

Non-core items:
 
 
 
Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net
(2
)
 
 
Acquisition integration and transaction costs
9

 
 
Cost of disposition of claims against discontinued Solutia operations
5

 
 
Total non-core items
12

 
 
Less: Tax provision for non-core items
8

 
 
Adjusted net earnings and diluted earnings per share
$
255

 
$
1.71



33

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


SUMMARY BY OPERATING SEGMENT

The Company's products and operations are managed and reported in four operating segments: Additives & Functional Products ("AFP"), Advanced Materials ("AM"), Chemical Intermediates ("CI"), and Fibers. For additional financial and product information for each segment, see Part 1, Item 1, Business - Business Segments and Part II, Item 8, Note 20, "Segment Information", in the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Additives & Functional Products Segment
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 $
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales
$
773

 
$
737

 
$
36

 
5
 %
Volume / product mix effect
 
 
 
 
60

 
8
 %
Price effect
 
 
 
 
(15
)
 
(2
)%
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
(9
)
 
(1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating earnings
$
152

 
$
153

 
$
(1
)
 
(1
)%
Asset impairments and restructuring gains, net

 
(2
)
 
2

 
 
Operating earnings excluding non-core item
$
152

 
$
151

 
$
1

 
1
 %

Sales revenue in first quarter 2017 increased compared to first quarter 2016 due to higher sales volume across the segment, partially offset by lower selling prices and an unfavorable shift in foreign currency exchange rates. The lower selling prices were primarily attributed to lower raw material prices in the prior year.
 
Operating earnings in first quarter 2016 included a $2 million gain for the sale of previously impaired assets at the Crystex® insoluble sulfur R&D site in France. Operating earnings were relatively unchanged in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016 as higher sales volume of $24 million was mostly offset by higher raw material and energy costs and lower selling prices of $25 million and an unfavorable shift in foreign currency exchange rates of $4 million.

Advanced Materials Segment
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 $
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales
$
634

 
$
589

 
$
45

 
8
 %
Volume / product mix effect
 
 
 
 
56

 
10
 %
Price effect
 
 
 
 
(6
)
 
(1
)%
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
(5
)
 
(1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating earnings
$
121

 
$
108

 
$
13

 
12
 %

Sales revenue in first quarter 2017 increased compared to first quarter 2016 due to higher sales volume of premium products, including Eastman Tritan® copolyester, automotive performance films, and Saflex® acoustic interlayers.


34

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Operating earnings in first quarter 2017 increased compared to first quarter 2016 primarily due to the combined impact of higher sales volume and improved product mix of premium products and lower unit costs due to higher capacity utilization of $39 million, partially offset by higher raw material and energy costs and lower selling prices of $17 million.

Chemical Intermediates Segment
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 $
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales
$
670

 
$
620

 
$
50

 
8
 %
Volume / product mix effect
 
 
 
 
3

 
1
 %
Price effect
 
 
 
 
51

 
8
 %
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
(4
)
 
(1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating earnings
$
82

 
$
67

 
$
15

 
22
 %

Sales revenue in first quarter 2017 increased compared to first quarter 2016 primarily due to higher selling prices. The higher selling prices were attributed to higher raw material prices and improved competitive conditions.

Operating earnings increased in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016 primarily due to $12 million reduced negative impact of hedges of commodity prices on raw material costs, primarily for propane.

Fibers Segment
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 $
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales
$
213

 
$
280

 
$
(67
)
 
(24
)%
Volume / product mix effect
 
 
 
 
(40
)
 
(15
)%
Price effect
 
 
 
 
(26
)
 
(9
)%
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
(1
)
 
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating earnings
$
52

 
$
86

 
$
(34
)
 
(40
)%

Sales revenue in first quarter 2017 decreased compared to first quarter 2016 primarily due to lower sales volume and lower selling prices, particularly for acetate tow. Lower acetate tow sales volume was primarily due to reduced sales in China and customer buying patterns. Lower acetate tow selling prices were primarily due to lower industry capacity utilization rates.
Operating earnings in first quarter 2017 decreased compared to first quarter 2016 due to approximately $41 million of lower sales volume and lower selling prices, partially offset by lower operating costs resulting from changes in segment business operations and assets.



35

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Other
 
First Quarter
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
 
Sales
$
13

 
$
10

 
 
 
 
Operating loss
 
 
 
Growth initiatives and businesses not allocated to segments
$
(28
)
 
$
(18
)
Pension and other postretirement benefits income, net not allocated to operating segments
18

 
12

Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
(9
)
Operating loss before non-core items
(10
)
 
(15
)
Acquisition integration and transaction costs

 
9

Operating loss excluding non-core items
$
(10
)
 
$
(6
)

Sales revenue and costs related to growth initiatives, R&D costs, certain components of pension and other postretirement benefits, and other expenses and income not identifiable to an operating segment are not included in segment operating results for any of the periods presented and are shown in "Other". Sales revenue in first quarter 2017 and first quarter 2016 is primarily sales from the microfiber technology platform.

Included in first quarter 2016 operating losses were transaction costs for final resolution of the 2011 Sterling Chemicals, Inc. acquisition purchase price and integration costs for the Commonwealth business acquired in December 2014.

SALES BY CUSTOMER LOCATION
 
Sales Revenue
 
First Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
Change
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
 
$
%
United States and Canada
$
1,066

 
$
1,006

 
$
60

6
 %
Asia Pacific
512

 
495

 
17

3
 %
Europe, Middle East, and Africa
600

 
612

 
(12
)
(2
)%
Latin America
125

 
123

 
2

2
 %
 
$
2,303

 
$
2,236

 
$
67

3
 %

Sales revenue in United States and Canada increased in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016, primarily due to higher CI segment selling prices and higher AM, CI, and AFP segments sales volume partially offset by lower Fibers segment sales volume.

Sales revenue in Asia Pacific increased in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016, primarily due to higher AM and AFP segments sales volume partially offset by lower Fibers segment sales volume and lower Fibers and AFP segments selling prices.

Sales revenue in Europe, Middle East, and Africa decreased in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016, primarily due to an unfavorable shift in foreign currency exchange rates in all operating segments and lower Fibers segment selling prices partially offset by higher AFP, Fibers, and AM segments sales volume.

Sales revenue in Latin America increased in first quarter 2017 compared to first quarter 2016, primarily due to higher AFP and AM segments sales volume partially offset by lower Fibers segment sales volume and lower AFP, AM, and Fibers segments selling prices.


36

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Cash Flows
 
First Three Months
(Dollars in millions)
2017
 
2016
Net cash provided by (used in)
 
 
 
Operating activities
$
52

 
$
51

Investing activities
(136
)
 
(126
)
Financing activities
102

 
(16
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(2
)
 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
16

 
(91
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
181

 
293

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
197

 
$
202

 
Cash provided by operating activities increased in first three months 2017 compared to first three months 2016 due to an increase in earnings that were partially offset by a normal seasonal increase in working capital.

Cash used in investing activities increased $10 million in first three months 2017 compared with first three months 2016 primarily due to $23 million higher additions to properties and equipment partially offset by $12 million less cash used for acquisitions and proceeds from sale of assets.

Cash provided by financing activities was $102 million in first three months 2017 compared with $16 million cash used in first three months 2016. The increased cash from financing activities is primarily due to an increase of $178 million in net proceeds from borrowings partially offset by increases in share repurchases and dividend payments of $55 million and $7 million, respectively. Cash provided by financing activities in first three months 2017 included $250 million of accounts receivable securitization agreement (the "A/R Facility") borrowings.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company has access to a $1.25 billion revolving credit agreement (the "Credit Facility") that expires October 2021. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are subject to interest at varying spreads above quoted market rates and a commitment fee is paid on the total unused commitment. The Credit Facility provides liquidity support for commercial paper borrowings and general corporate purposes.

The Company also has access to a $250 million A/R Facility that expires April 2019. Eastman Chemical Financial Corporation ("ECFC"), a subsidiary of the Company, has an agreement to sell interests in trade receivables under the A/R Facility to a third party purchaser. Third party creditors of ECFC have first priority claims on the assets of ECFC before those assets would be available to satisfy the Company's general obligations. Borrowings under the A/R Facility are subject to interest rates based on a spread over the lender's borrowing costs, and ECFC pays a fee to maintain availability of the A/R Facility.

The Credit and A/R Facilities and other borrowing arrangements contain a number of customary covenants and events of default, including requirements to maintain certain financial ratios that determine the amounts available and terms of borrowings. The Company was in compliance with all covenants at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The amount of available borrowings under the A/R and Credit Facilities was approximately $620 million as of March 31, 2017. The amount of available borrowings was limited by a financial ratio covenant under the Credit Facility and by a seasonal increase in certain borrowings. For additional information, see Section 5.03 of the Credit Facility at Exhibit 10.02 to the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Cash flows from operations, cash and cash equivalents, and other sources of liquidity are expected to be available and sufficient to meet foreseeable cash requirements. However, the Company's cash flows from operations can be affected by numerous factors including risks associated with global operations, raw material availability and cost, demand for and pricing of Eastman's products, capacity utilization, and other factors described under "Risk Factors" in this MD&A. Eastman management believes maintaining a financial profile consistent with an investment grade credit rating is important to its long-term strategic and financial flexibility.

37

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Debt and Other Commitments

At March 31, 2017, the Company's borrowings totaled $6.9 billion with various maturities. See Note 5, "Borrowings", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

As of March 31, 2017, there have been no material changes to the Company's debt and other commitments at December 31, 2016. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II, Item 7 of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The resolution of uncertainties related to environmental matters included in other liabilities may have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations in the period recognized, however, because of expected sharing of costs, the availability of legal defenses, and the Company's preliminary assessment of actions that may be required, management does not believe that the Company's liability for these environmental matters, individually or in the aggregate, will be material to the Company's consolidated financial position or cash flows. See Note 1, "Significant Accounting Policies", to the Company's consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of the 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Company's accounting policy for environmental costs and see Note 9, "Environmental Matters and Asset Retirement Obligations", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for more information regarding outstanding environmental matters and asset retirement obligations.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

For information about off balance sheet arrangements, see Note 8, "Commitments and Off Balance Sheet Arrangements", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Management's current expectation is that the likelihood of material residual guarantee payments or future payment or performance related to non-performance under other guarantees is remote.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $133 million and $110 million in first three months 2017 and 2016, respectively, primarily for AFP and AM segment expansions in Kuantan, Malaysia, an AM segment expansion of Eastman Tritan® copolyester capacity in Kingsport, Tennessee, and Longview, Texas site modernization projects. The Company expects that 2017 capital spending will be approximately $575 million.

Stock Repurchases and Dividends

In February 2014, the Company's Board of Directors authorized repurchase of up to an additional $1 billion of the Company's outstanding common stock at such times, in such amounts, and on such terms, as determined to be in the best interests of the Company. As of March 31, 2017, a total of 7,485,889 shares have been repurchased under this authorization for a total amount of $573 million.

The Company's Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.51 during the second quarter 2017, payable on July 5, 2017 to stockholders of record on June 15, 2017.

Other

Eastman did not have any material relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, including special purpose entities, for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements with contractually narrow or limited purposes. Thus, the Company is not materially exposed to any financing, liquidity, market, or credit risk related to any such relationships.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

For information regarding the impact of recently issued accounting standards, see Note 17, "Recently Issued Accounting Standards", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.


38

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


2017 OUTLOOK

Eastman is focused on consistent earnings growth through a market-driven approach that takes advantage of the Company's existing technology platforms, global market and manufacturing presence, leading positions in key end markets, vertically integrated manufacturing streams, and advantaged cost positions. This focus is supported by the Company's end-market and geographic diversity as it serves global markets and offers both original equipment manufacturing and after-market products in a variety of end markets, such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables.

Management expects continued slow global economic growth and challenges in the Fibers segment. Management expects that market prices for commodity products and raw material and energy costs will continue to be volatile, and will continue to evaluate and use pricing strategies to mitigate this volatility. The negative impact of our current commodity hedges is expected to be less than in recent years. Management also expects the strength of the U.S. dollar to continue to have an overall negative impact on the Company's results, partially offset by hedging of foreign currencies, particularly the euro.

For 2017, management also expects:

operating results to continue to benefit from organic growth and improved product mix from continued market adoption of specialty products;
cost reduction actions to result in cost savings of approximately $100 million;
cash generated by operating activities of approximately $1.6 billion;
capital spending to be approximately $575 million; and
priorities for uses of available cash in 2017 to include payment of the quarterly dividend, repayment of debt, funding targeted growth initiatives, and repurchasing shares.

Based on the foregoing expectations and assumptions, management expects adjusted 2017 earnings per share excluding non-core and any unusual or non-recurring items in the last three quarters of 2017 and assuming an actual tax rate for full-year 2017 equal to the adjusted tax rate detailed in "Results of Operations - Provision for Income Taxes" to be eight to twelve percent higher than adjusted 2016 earnings per share of $6.76. The Company's 2017 financial results forecasts do not include non-core items (such as mark to market pension and other post-retirement benefit gains and losses) or any unusual or non-recurring items. Accordingly, management is unable to reconcile projected 2017 earnings excluding non-core and any unusual or non-recurring items to projected reported GAAP earnings without unreasonable efforts.

See "Risk Factors" below.
 
RISK FACTORS

In addition to the factors described elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, the following are the most significant known factors, risks, and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements made in this Quarterly Report and elsewhere from time to time. See "Forward-looking Statements".

Continued uncertain conditions in the global economy and the financial markets could negatively impact the Company.

Continued uncertain conditions in the global economy and global capital markets may adversely affect the Company's results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows. The Company's business and operating results were affected by the impact of the last global recession, including the credit market crisis, declining consumer and business confidence, fluctuating commodity prices, volatile exchange rates, and other challenges that affected the global economy. Continuing deterioration and weakness of the global economy and financial markets and uncertainty over timing and extent of recovery have adversely affected the Company's results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows. In addition, the Company's ability to access the credit and capital markets under attractive rates and terms could be constrained, which may negatively impact the Company's liquidity or ability to pursue certain growth initiatives.


39

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Volatility in costs for strategic raw material and energy commodities or disruption in the supply of these commodities could adversely affect our financial results.

The Company is reliant on certain strategic raw material and energy commodities for its operations and utilizes risk management tools, including hedging, as appropriate, to mitigate market fluctuations in raw material and energy costs. These risk mitigation measures cannot eliminate all exposure to market fluctuations and have from time to time reduced the positive impact of unexpected decreases of the market price of purchased raw materials. In addition, natural disasters, plant interruptions, changes in laws or regulations, war or other outbreak of hostilities or terrorism, and breakdown or degradation of transportation infrastructure used for delivery of strategic raw material and energy commodities, could adversely impact both the cost and availability of these commodities.

Loss or financial weakness of any of the Company's largest customers could adversely affect our financial results.

Although the Company has an extensive customer base, loss of, or material financial weakness of, certain of our largest customers could adversely affect the Company's financial condition and results of operations until such business is replaced. No assurances can be made that the Company would be able to regain or replace any lost customers.

The Company's business is subject to operating risks common to chemical manufacturing businesses, including cyber risks, any of which could disrupt manufacturing operations or related infrastructure and adversely affect results of operations.

As a global specialty chemicals manufacturing company, our business is subject to operating risks common to chemical manufacturing, storage, handling, and transportation including explosions, fires, inclement weather, natural disasters, mechanical failure, unscheduled downtime, transportation interruptions, remediation, chemical spills, discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases. Significant limitation on the Company's ability to manufacture products due to disruption of manufacturing operations or related infrastructure could have a material adverse effect on the Company's sales revenue, costs, results of operations, credit ratings, and financial condition. Disruptions could occur due to internal factors such as computer or equipment malfunction (accidental or intentional), operator error, or process failures; or external factors such as computer or equipment malfunction at third-party service providers, natural disasters, pandemic illness, changes in laws or regulations, war or other outbreak of hostilities or terrorism, cyber attacks, or breakdown or degradation of transportation infrastructure used for delivery of supplies to the Company or for delivery of products to customers. The Company has in the past experienced cyber attacks and breaches of its computer information systems, and although none of these has had a material adverse effect on the Company's operations, no assurances can be provided that any future disruptions due to these, or other, circumstances will not have a material effect on operations. Such disruptions could result in an unplanned event that could be significant in scale and could negatively impact operations, neighbors, and the environment, and could have a negative impact on the Company's results of operations.

Growth initiatives may not achieve desired business or financial objectives and may require a significant use of resources in excess of those estimated or budgeted for such initiatives.

The Company continues to identify and pursue growth opportunities through both organic growth initiatives and inorganic initiatives. These growth opportunities include development and commercialization or licensing of innovative new products and technologies and related employee leadership, expertise, and skill development and retention, expansion into new markets and geographic regions, and alliances, ventures, and acquisitions that complement and extend the Company's portfolio of businesses and capabilities. There can be no assurance that such innovation, development and commercialization or licensing efforts, investments, or acquisitions and alliances (including integration of acquired businesses) will result in financially successful commercialization of products, or acceptance by existing or new customers, or successful entry into new markets or otherwise achieve their underlying strategic business objectives or that they will be beneficial to the Company's results of operations. There also can be no assurance that capital projects for growth efforts can be completed within the time or at the costs projected due, among other things, to demand for and availability of construction materials and labor and obtaining regulatory approvals and operating permits and reaching agreement on terms of key agreements and arrangements with potential suppliers and customers. Any such delays or cost overruns or the inability to obtain such approvals or to reach such agreements on acceptable terms could negatively affect the returns from any proposed or current investments and projects.


40

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


The Company's substantial global operations subject it to risks of doing business in foreign countries, which could adversely affect its business, financial condition and results of operations.

More than half of the Company's sales for 2016 were to customers outside of North America. The Company expects sales from international markets to continue to represent a significant portion of the its sales. Also, a significant portion of manufacturing capacity is located outside of the United States. Accordingly, the Company's business is subject to risks related to the differing legal, political, cultural, social and regulatory requirements and economic conditions of many jurisdictions. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect product demand and may adversely affect the profitability in U.S. dollars of products and services provided in foreign countries. In addition, the U.S. or foreign countries may impose additional taxes or otherwise tax Eastman's foreign income, or adopt other restrictions on foreign trade or investment, including currency exchange controls or limitations on imports or exports. Certain legal and political risks are also inherent in the operation of a company with Eastman's global scope. For example, it may be more difficult for Eastman to enforce its agreements or collect receivables through foreign legal systems, and the laws of some countries may not protect the Company's intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Failure of foreign countries to have laws to protect Eastman's intellectual property rights or an inability to effectively enforce such rights in foreign countries could result in loss of valuable proprietary information. There is also risk that foreign governments may nationalize private enterprises in certain countries where Eastman operates. Social and cultural norms in certain countries may not support compliance with Eastman's corporate policies including those that require compliance with substantive laws and regulations. Also, changes in general economic and political conditions in countries where Eastman operates are a risk to the Company's financial performance. As Eastman continues to operate its business globally, its success will depend, in part, on its ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other related risks. There can be no assurance that the consequences of these and other factors relating to its multinational operations will not have an adverse effect on Eastman's business, financial condition or results of operations.

Legislative or regulatory actions could increase the Company's future compliance costs.

The Company and its facilities and businesses are subject to complex health, safety, and environmental laws and regulations, both in the U.S. and internationally, which require and will continue to require significant expenditures to remain in compliance with such laws and regulations. The Company's accruals for such costs and associated liabilities are subject to changes in estimates on which the accruals are based. For example, any amount accrued for environmental matters reflects the Company's assumptions about remediation requirements at the contaminated site, the nature of the remedy, the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies and other potentially responsible parties at multi-party sites, and the number of and financial viability of other potentially responsible parties. Changes in the estimates on which the accruals are based, unanticipated government enforcement action, or changes in health, safety, environmental, chemical control regulations, and testing requirements could result in higher costs. Specifically, future changes in U.S. Federal legislation and regulation may increase the likelihood that the Company's manufacturing sites will in the future be impacted by regulation of greenhouse gas emissions and energy policy, which legislation and regulation, if enacted, may result in capital expenditures, increases in costs for raw materials and energy, limitations on raw material and energy source and supply choices, and other direct compliance costs.

Significant acquisitions expose the Company to risks and uncertainties, the occurrence of any of which could materially adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

While acquisitions have been and continue to be a part of the Company's growth strategy, acquisitions of large companies (such as the acquisition of Taminco and Solutia) subject the Company to a number of risks and uncertainties, the occurrence of any of which could have a material adverse effect on Eastman. These include, but are not limited to the possibilities that the financial performance of the acquired business may be significantly worse than expected; that significant additional indebtedness may constrain the Company's ability to access the credit and capital markets at attractive interest rates and favorable terms, which may negatively impact the Company's liquidity or ability to pursue certain growth initiatives; that the Company may not be able to achieve the cost, revenue, tax, or other "synergies" expected from any acquisition, or that there may be delays in achieving any such synergies; that management's time and effort may be dedicated to the new business resulting in a loss of focus on the successful operation of the Company's existing businesses; and that the Company may be required to expend significant additional resources in order to integrate any acquired business into Eastman or that the integration efforts will not achieve the expected benefits.


41

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


In addition to the foregoing most significant known risk factors to the Company, there may be other factors, not currently known to the Company, which could, in the future, materially adversely affect the Company, its business, financial condition, or results of operations. The foregoing discussion of the most significant risk factors to the Company does not necessarily present them in order of importance. This disclosure, including that under "Outlook" and other forward-looking statements and related disclosures made by the Company in this Quarterly Report and elsewhere from time to time, represents management's best judgment as of the date the information is given. The Company does not undertake responsibility for updating any of such information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. Investors are advised, however, to consult any further public Company disclosures (such as in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or in Company press releases) on related subjects.



42


ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There are no material changes to the Company's market risks from those disclosed in Part II, Item 7A of the Company's 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains a set of disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. An evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), of the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that as of March 31, 2017 the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed was accumulated and communicated to management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the first quarter of 2017 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.


43


PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

General

From time to time, Eastman and its operations are parties to, or targets of, lawsuits, claims, investigations and proceedings, including product liability, personal injury, asbestos, patent and intellectual property, commercial, contract, environmental, antitrust, health and safety, and employment matters, which are being handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. While the Company is unable to predict the outcome of these matters, it does not believe, based upon currently available facts, that the ultimate resolution of any such pending matters will have a material adverse effect on its overall financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Solutia Legacy Torts Claims Litigation

Pursuant to an Amended and Restated Settlement Agreement effective February 28, 2008 between Solutia Inc. ("Solutia") and Monsanto Company ("Monsanto") in connection with Solutia's emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings (the "Monsanto Settlement Agreement"), Monsanto is responsible for the defense and indemnification of Solutia against any Legacy Tort Claims (as defined in the Monsanto Settlement Agreement) and Solutia has agreed to retain responsibility for certain tort claims, if any, that may arise from Solutia's conduct after its spinoff from Pharmacia Corporation (f/k/a Monsanto), which occurred on September 1, 1997. Solutia, which became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastman on July 2, 2012, has been named as a defendant in several such proceedings, and has submitted the matters to Monsanto as Legacy Tort Claims. To the extent these matters are not within the meaning of Legacy Tort Claims, Solutia could potentially be liable thereunder. In connection with the completion of its acquisition of Solutia, Eastman guaranteed the obligations of Solutia and Eastman was added as an indemnified party under the Monsanto Settlement Agreement.

ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS

For identification and discussion of the most significant risks applicable to the Company and its business, see "Risk Factors" in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Part I, Item 2 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.


44


ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

(c) Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

In February 2014, the Board of Directors authorized repurchase of up to an additional $1 billion of the Company's outstanding common stock. As of March 31, 2017, a total of 7,485,889 shares have been repurchased under this authorization for a total amount of $573 million. During first three months 2017, the Company repurchased 943,699 shares of common stock for a cost of $75 million. For additional information, see Note 11, "Stockholders' Equity", to the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
(1)
Average Price Paid Per Share
(2)
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans
or Programs
Approximate Dollar
Value (in millions) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
January 1 - 31, 2017
120,000

$
78.35

120,000

$
492

February 1 - 28, 2017
278,846

$
78.91

278,846

$
470

March 1 - 31, 2017
544,853

$
79.99

544,853

$
427

Total
943,699

$
79.46

943,699

 

(1) 
All shares were repurchased under a Company announced repurchase plan.
(2) 
Average price paid per share reflects the weighted average purchase price paid for shares.

ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS

Exhibits filed as part of this report are listed in the Exhibit Index.

45


SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
 
 
 
Eastman Chemical Company
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
May 5, 2017
By:
/s/ Curtis E. Espeland
 
 
 
Curtis E. Espeland
 
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

46


 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number
 
Description
 
 
 
3.01
 
 
 
 
3.02
 
 
 
 
4.01
 
 
 
 
4.02
 
Indenture, dated as of January 10, 1994, between Eastman Chemical Company and The Bank of New York, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 10, 1994)
 
 
 
4.03
 
 
 
 
4.04
 
Form of 7 1/4% Debentures due January 15, 2024 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4(d) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 10, 1994)
 
 
 
4.05
 
Officers' Certificate pursuant to Sections 201 and 301 of the Indenture related to 7 5/8% Debentures due 2024 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 8, 1994)
 
 
 
4.06
 
Form of 7 5/8% Debentures due June 15, 2024 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4(b) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 8, 1994)
 
 
 
4.07
 
Form of 7.60% Debentures due February 1, 2027 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.08 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996)
 
 
 
4.08
 
Officer's Certificate pursuant to Sections 201 and 301 of the Indenture related to 7.60% Debentures due February 1, 2027 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.09 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996)
 
 
 
4.09
 
 
 
 
4.10
 
 
 
 
4.11
 
 
 
 
4.12
 
 
 
 
4.13
 
 
 
 
4.14
 
 
 
 
4.15
 

47


 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number
 
Description
 
 
 
4.16
 
 
 
 
4.17
 
 
 
 
10.01
 
 
 
 
10.02 *
 
 
 
 
12.01 *
 
 
 
 
31.01 *
 
 
 
 
31.02 *
 
 
 
 
32.01 *
 
 
 
 
32.02 *
 
 
 
 
101.INS *
 
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
 
101.SCH *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
 
 
101.CAL *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.DEF *
 
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.LAB *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.PRE *
 
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document

* Denotes exhibit filed or furnished herewith.
** Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement filed pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iii) of Regulation S-K.


48