- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------===========================================================================
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997MARCH 31, 1998
Commission file number 1-9447
KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 94-3030279
(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification
No.)
5847 SAN FELIPE, SUITE 2600, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77057-3010
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(713) 267-3777
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
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
----- ------
At October 31, 1997,April 29, 1998, the registrant had 78,980,88179,142,365 shares of Common
Stock outstanding.
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KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
--------------------
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions of dollars)
September 30,March 31, December 31,
1998 1997 1996
------------------------------
ASSETS (Unaudited)
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 26.321.1 $ 81.315.8
Receivables 305.0 252.4319.2 340.2
Inventories 553.3 562.2528.1 568.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 125.1 127.8140.3 121.3
------------------------------
Total current assets 1,009.7 1,023.71,008.7 1,045.6
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated
affiliates 158.1 168.4149.5 148.6
Property, plant, and equipment - net 1,162.9 1,168.71,162.5 1,171.8
Deferred income taxes 298.0 264.5326.9 330.6
Other assets 335.6 308.7316.2 317.3
------------------------------
Total $ 2,964.32,963.8 $ 2,934.03,013.9
==============================
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 161.1150.4 $ 189.7176.2
Accrued interest 24.8 35.637.6
Accrued salaries, wages, and related expenses 76.7 95.484.4 97.9
Accrued postretirement medical benefit obligation
- current portion 50.1 50.145.3 45.3
Other accrued liabilities 121.4 132.7146.2 145.6
Payable to affiliates 103.1 97.083.9 82.7
Long-term debt - current portion 2.7 8.98.0 8.8
------------------------------
Total current liabilities 539.9 609.4543.0 594.1
Long-term liabilities 515.8 458.1486.5 491.9
Accrued postretirement medical benefit obligation 714.6 722.5715.1 720.3
Long-term debt 969.3 953.0962.6 962.9
Minority interests 124.7 121.7126.1 127.7
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock .4
Common stock .8 .7.8
Additional capital 534.0 531.1535.3 533.8
Accumulated deficit (432.0) (460.1)
Additional minimum pension liability (2.8) (2.8)(405.6) (417.6)
------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity 100.0 69.3130.5 117.0
------------------------------
Total $ 2,964.32,963.8 $ 2,934.03,013.9
==============================
The accompanying notes to interim consolidated financial statements are an
integral part of these statements.
KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME
(LOSS)
(Unaudited)
(In millions of dollars, except share amounts)
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,March 31,
------------------------------
------------------------------1998 1997 1996 1997 1996
------------------------------
------------------------------
Net sales $ 634.1597.0 $ 553.4 $ 1,778.6 $ 1,652.1
------------------------------547.4
------------------------------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of products sold 523.7 485.0 1,473.7 1,394.8499.6 460.7
Depreciation 22.9 24.3 68.8 72.523.1
Selling, administrative, research and development,
and general 33.0 33.6 95.3 97.4
Restructuring of operations 19.7
------------------------------29.7 32.3
------------------------------
Total costs and expenses 579.6 542.9 1,657.5 1,564.7
------------------------------552.2 516.1
------------------------------
Operating income 54.5 10.5 121.1 87.444.8 31.3
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (27.5) (22.6) (83.3) (68.3)(28.0) (27.7)
Other - net 2.1 2.1 1.7 3.0.8 2.8
------------------------------
------------------------------
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interests 29.1 (10.0) 39.5 22.1
(Provision) benefit17.6 6.4
Provision for income taxes (11.0) 3.8(6.2) (2.4) (8.4)
Minority interests (.6) (.4) (3.3) (2.2)
------------------------------.6 (1.4)
------------------------------
Net income (loss) 17.5 (6.6) 33.8 11.512.0 2.6
Dividends on preferred stock (1.3)- (2.1) (5.5) (6.3)
------------------------------
------------------------------
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders $ 16.212.0 $ (8.7) $ 28.3 $ 5.2
==============================.5
==============================
Earnings (loss) per common and common equivalent share:
PrimaryBasic $ .22.15 $ (.12).01
Diluted $ .39.15 $ .07
============================== ==============================
Fully diluted $ .22 $ .43
============== ==============.01
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding (000):
Primary 74,663 71,646 72,775 71,843
Fully diluted 79,193 79,164Basic 79,008 71,656
Diluted 79,086 71,818
The accompanying notes to interim consolidated financial statements are an
integral part of these statements.
KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(In millions of dollars)
Nine MonthsQuarter Ended
September 30,March 31,
------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
------------------------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 33.812.0 $ 11.52.6
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided (used) by operating activities:
Depreciation 68.8 72.5
Restructuring of operations 19.7
Non-cash benefit for income taxes (12.5)22.9 23.1
Amortization of excess investment over equity
in unconsolidated affiliates 8.7 8.72.5 2.9
Amortization of deferred financing costs and
net discount on long-term debt 4.5 4.11.3 1.5
Undistributed equity in (income) loss of
unconsolidated affiliates, net of
distributions 16.7 (7.5)(3.7) 8.6
Minority interests 3.3 2.2
(Increase) decrease(.6) 1.4
Decrease (increase) in receivables (59.5) 41.0
(Increase) decrease21.6 (38.6)
Decrease (increase) in inventories 5.7 (19.8)
(Increase) decrease40.2 (13.7)
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and .4 (27.2)
other assets 1.1 (38.1)
Decrease in accounts payable (28.6) (24.1)(25.8) (37.8)
Decrease in accrued interest (10.8) (18.4)
Decrease(12.7) (12.3)
(Decrease) increase in payable to affiliates
and accrued liabilities (29.8) (23.1)(34.9) 4.3
Decrease in accrued and deferred income taxes (2.1) (18.6)(1.1) (.2)
Other 3.6 4.61.5 .2
------------------------------
Net cash (used) provided (used) by operating
activities 22.6 (5.0)23.6 (85.2)
------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net proceeds from disposition of property and - 2.6
investments 22.2 1.6
Capital expenditures (94.7) (91.1)(13.7) (21.8)
Other (2.6) (1.3)(3.2) (2.8)
------------------------------
Net cash used by investing activities (75.1) (90.8)(16.9) (22.0)
------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings under revolving credit facility, net 118.1- 42.0
Borrowings of long-term debt - 19.0
Repayments of long-term debt (8.6) (9.0)
Increase(.9) (3.9)
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash, net (6.5).6 (12.6)
Incurrence of financing costs (0.6)- (.4)
Dividends paid (4.2) (8.4)
Capital stock issued .4- (2.1)
Redemption of minority interests' preference stock
(2.0) (5.2)(1.1) (1.6)
------------------------------
Net cash provided (used) by financing
activities (2.5) 95.5(1.4) 40.4
------------------------------
Net decreaseincrease (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 5.3 (66.8)
during the period (55.0) (.3)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 15.8 81.3 21.9
------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 26.321.1 $ 21.614.5
==============================
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest $ 89.539.4 $ 82.738.5
Income taxes paid 14.8 22.4
Tax allocation payments to MAXXAM Inc. 1.16.4 2.1
The accompanying notes to interim consolidated financial statements are an
integral part of these statements.
NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions of dollars, except prices and per share amounts)
1. GENERAL
Kaiser Aluminum Corporation (the "Company") is a subsidiary of MAXXAM
Inc. ("MAXXAM"). MAXXAM and one of its wholly owned subsidiaries together
own approximately 63% of the Company's Common Stock with the remaining
approximately 37% publicly held. The Company operates through its
subsidiary, Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical Corporation ("KACC").
The foregoing unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q
and Article 10 of Regulation S-X as promulgated by the Securities and
Exchange Commission. Accordingly, these financial statements do not
include all of the disclosures required by generally accepted accounting
principles for complete financial statements. These unaudited interim
consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the
audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31,
1996.1997. In the opinion of management, the unaudited interim consolidated
financial statements furnished herein include all adjustments, all of which
are of a normal recurring nature, necessary for a fair statement of the
results for the interim periods presented.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, Reporting
Comprehensive Income ("SFAS No. 130") was issued in June 1997 with adoption
required for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 1997. SFAS No. 130
requires the presentation of an additional income measure (termed
"comprehensive income"), which adjusts traditional net income for certain
items that previously were only reflected as direct charges to equity (such
as minimum pension liabilities). The dollar amount of the Company's
adjustments required by SFAS No. 130 is not significant so there is not a
significant difference between "traditional" net income and comprehensive
income for the quarters ended March 31, 1998 and 1997.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles requires the use of estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities,
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist as of the
date the financial statements are published, and the reported amounts of
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Uncertainties with
respect to such estimates and assumptions are inherent in the preparation
of the Company's consolidated financial statements; accordingly, it is
possible that the actual results could differ from these estimates and
assumptions, which could have a material effect on the reported amounts of
the Company's consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Operating results for the quarter ended September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year
ending December 31, 1997.1998.
2. INVENTORIES
The classification of inventories is as follows:
September 30,March 31, December 31,
1998 1997 1996
------------------------------
Finished fabricated aluminum products $ 95.4101.2 $ 113.5103.9
Primary aluminum and work in process 220.7 200.3181.9 226.6
Bauxite and alumina 110.5 110.2120.8 108.4
Operating supplies and repair and maintenance
parts 126.7 138.2124.2 129.4
------------------------------
Total $ 553.3528.1 $ 562.2568.3
==============================
Substantially all product inventories are stated at last-in, first-out
(LIFO) cost, not in excess of market. Replacement cost is not in excess of
LIFO cost.
3. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL REVENUE BONDS
In March 1997, KACC entered into an agreement (the "Loan Agreement")
with the Industrial Development Corporation of Spokane County, Washington
(the "IDC") in connection with which the IDC issued $19.0 of 7.6% Solid
Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds due 2027 (the "Bonds") and loaned the proceeds
to KACC to finance the construction of certain qualifying expenditures at
its Mead smelter, which are part of the previously announced modernization
and expansion of Mead's carbon baking furnace. The net proceeds from the
sale of the Bonds of approximately $18.6 were deposited into a restricted
construction account (the balance of which is included in Other assets) and
may be withdrawn from time to time by KACC, pursuant to the Loan Agreement
and Bond indenture. The Loan Agreement requires KACC to make payments on
the dates and in the amounts required to permit the IDC to satisfy all of
its payment obligations under the Bonds and related indenture.
4. EARNINGS PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE
PRIMARY
EarningsBasic - Basic earnings per common and common equivalent share areis computed by deducting preferred stock
dividends on the 8.255% PRIDES, Convertible Preferred Stock (the
"PRIDES") from net income in order to determine net income available to
common shareholders. This amount is then divided by the weighted average
number of common and common equivalent shares of Common Stock outstanding during the period. Theperiod including
the weighted average impact of the numbershares of Common Stock issued during
the year from the date(s) of issuance.
Diluted - Diluted earnings per share for the quarters ended March 31, 1998,
and 1997, include the dilutive effect of outstanding stock options on the
weighted average number of common(78,000
and common equivalent162,000 shares, for the
quarters and nine month periods ended September 30, 1997, and 1996, was
immaterial.
FULLY DILUTED
For the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 1997, fully
diluted earnings per share are presented even though the results are
antidilutive as a result of the August 1997 conversion of the PRIDES.respectively). The fully diluted computations for these periods assume that the conversion of
theCompany's 8.255% PRIDES,
had occurred at the beginning of each period. Accordingly, the
dividend amounts for the quarter and nine-month period ended September 30,
1997, of $1.3 and $5.5, respectively,Convertible Preferred Stock ("PRIDES") have not been deducted from net
income and the weighted average number of common and common equivalent
shares has been adjusted to reflect the 7,227,848 sharestreated "as if"
converted for purposes of the Company's
Common Stock issued upon conversion ofDiluted computation in the PRIDES in Augustquarter ended
March 31, 1997, as if they
hadsuch treatment would have been outstanding fromantidilutive.
In the beginningfourth quarter of each period.
The PRIDES were excluded from the calculation of the weighted average
number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding for the quarter
and nine-months ended September 30, 1996, because they were antidilutive.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT
In February 1997 the Financial Accounting Standards Board issuedCompany adopted Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings Per Share" ("SFAS No.
128"). Under SFAS No. 128, primary which, among other things, requires the presentation of "Basic" and
"Diluted" earnings per share ("Primary
EPS") will be replaced by basicin lieu of "Primary" and "Fully Diluted"
earnings per share ("Basic EPS"), and fully
diluted earnings per share ("Fully Diluted EPS") will be replaceddata presented in prior periods. In accordance with diluted earnings per share ("Diluted EPS"). Basic EPS differs from Primary
EPS in that it only includes the weighted average impact of outstanding
shares of the Company's Common Stock (i.e., it excludes common stock
equivalents and the dilutive effect of options, etc.) Diluted EPS is
substantially similar to Fully Diluted EPS as previously reported. The
provisions of SFAS No. 128, will result inearnings per share data for the retroactive restatementfirst quarter of
previously reported Primary EPS1997 have been restated to conform to the new computation and Fully Diluted EPS figures, but SFAS No.
128 prohibits such restatement prior to December 31, 1997. Based on the
Company's computations, the adoptionpresentation
guidelines of SFAS No. 128 is128. Such restatement did not, expected tohowever, have any
impact on earnings per share amounts reported during the current quarter or
any recent prior period.
5.previously reported.
4. CONTINGENCIES
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTINGENCIES
The Company and KACC are subject to a number of environmental laws, to
fines or penalties assessed for alleged breaches of such environmental
laws, and to claims and litigation based upon such laws. KACC currently is
subject to a number of lawsuits under the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended by the
Superfund Amendments Reauthorization Act of 1986 ("CERCLA"), and, along
with certain other entities, has been named as a potentially responsible
party for remedial costs at certain third-party sites listed on the
National Priorities List under CERCLA.
Based on the Company's evaluation of these and other environmental
matters, the Company has established environmental accruals primarily
related to potential solid waste disposal and soil and groundwater
remediation matters. At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, the balance of such accruals,
which are primarily included in Long-term liabilities, was $30.8.$29.8. These
environmental accruals represent the Company's estimate of costs reasonably
expected to be incurred based on presently enacted laws and regulations,
currently available facts, existing technology, and the Company's
assessment of the likely remediation actions to be taken. The Company
expects that these remediation actions will be taken over the next several
years and estimates that annual expenditures to be charged to these
environmental accruals will be approximately $3.0$2.0 to $8.0$9.0 for the years
19971998 through 20012002 and an aggregate of approximately $7.0 thereafter.
The Company believes that it has insurance coverage available to
recover certain incurred and future environmental costs and is actively
pursuing claims in this regard. However, no accruals have been made for
any such insurance recoveries and no assurances can be given that the
Company will be successful in its attempt to recover incurred or future
costs.
As additional facts are developed and definitive remediation plans and
necessary regulatory approvals for implementation of remediation are
established or alternative technologies are developed, changes in these and
other factors may result in actual costs exceeding the current
environmental accruals. The Company believes that it is reasonably
possible that costs associated with these environmental matters may exceed
current accruals by amounts that could range, in the aggregate, up to an
estimated $19.0.$18.0. As the resolution of these matters is subject to further
regulatory review and approval, no specific assurance can be given as to
when the factors upon which a substantial portion of this estimate is based
can be expected to be resolved. However, the Company is currently working
to resolve certain of these matters.
While uncertainties are inherent in the final outcome of these
environmental matters, and it is presently impossible to determine the
actual costs that ultimately may be incurred, management currently believes
that the resolution of such uncertainties should not have a material
adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of
operations, or liquidity.
ASBESTOS CONTINGENCIES
KACC is a defendant in a number of lawsuits, some of which involve
claims of multiple persons, in which the plaintiffs allege that certain of
their injuries were caused by, among other things, exposure to asbestos
during, and as a result of, their employment or association with KACC or
exposure to products containing asbestos produced or sold by KACC. The
lawsuits generally relate to products KACC has not manufactured for at
least 20 years. At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, the number of such claims pending was
approximately 71,200,81,500, as compared with 71,10077,400 at December 31, 1996.1997. In
1996,1997, approximately 21,10015,600 of such claims were received and 9,7009,300 were
settled or dismissed. During the quarter and nine months ended September
30, 1997,March 31, 1998,
approximately 3,400 and 9,0005,400 of such claims were received and 6,500 and 8,9001,300 of such claims
were settled or dismissed, respectively. However, the foregoing claim and
settlement figures as of and for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, do not
reflect the fact that as of March 31, 1998, KACC reached agreements under
which it will settle approximately 25,000 of the pending asbestos-related
claims over an extended period.
Based on past experience and reasonably anticipated future activity,
the Company has established an accrual for estimated asbestos-related costs
for claims filed and estimated to be filed through 2008. There are
inherent uncertainties involved in estimating asbestos-related costs, and
the Company's actual costs could exceed or be less than these estimates.
The Company's accrual was calculated based on the current and anticipated
number of asbestos-related claims, the prior timing and amounts of
asbestos-related payments, and the advice of Wharton Levin Ehrmantraut
Klein & Nash, P.A. with respect to the current state of the law related to
asbestos claims. Accordingly, an estimated asbestos-related cost accrual
of $156.8,$155.6, before consideration of insurance recoveries, is included
primarily in Long-term liabilities at September 30, 1997.March 31, 1998. While the Company
does not presently believe there is a reasonable basis for estimating such
costs beyond 2008 and, accordingly, no accrual has been recorded for such
costs which may be incurred beyond 2008, there is a reasonable possibility
that such costs may continue beyond 2008, and such costs may be
substantial. The Company estimates that annual future cash payments in
connection with such litigation will be approximately $13.0 to $20.0 for
each of the years 19971998 through 2001,2002, and an aggregate of approximately
$86.0$80.0 thereafter.
The Company believes that KACC has insurance coverage available to
recover a substantial portion of its asbestos-related costs. Claims for
recovery from some of KACC's insurance carriers are currently subject to
pending litigation and other carriers have raised certain defenses, which
have resulted in delays in recovering costs from the insurance carriers.
The timing and amount of ultimate recoveries from these insurance carriers
are dependent upon the resolution of these disputes. The Company believes,
based on prior insurance-related recoveries in respect of asbestos-related
claims, existing insurance policies, and the advice of Thelen, Marrin,
Johnson & Bridges LLP with respect to applicable insurance coverage law
relating to the terms and conditions of those policies, that substantial
recoveries from the insurance carriers are probable. Accordingly, an
estimated aggregate insurance recovery of $127.9,$115.7, determined on the same
basis as the asbestos-related cost accrual, is recorded primarily in Other
assets at September 30, 1997.March 31, 1998. During the first quarter of 1998, KACC reached
agreements on asbestos-related coverage matters with two insurance carriers
under which it collected a total of approximately $17.5.
Management continues to monitor claims activity, the status of
lawsuits (including settlement initiatives), legislative progress, and
costs incurred in order to ascertain whether an adjustment to the existing
accruals should be made to the extent that historical experience may differ
significantly from the Company's underlying assumptions. While
uncertainties are inherent in the final outcome of these asbestos matters
and it is presently impossible to determine the actual costs that
ultimately may be incurred and insurance recoveries that will be received,
management currently believes that, based on the factors discussed in the
preceding paragraphs, the resolution of asbestos-related uncertainties and
the incurrence of asbestos-related costs net of related insurance
recoveries should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's
consolidated financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.
OTHER CONTINGENCIES
The Company and KACC are involved in various other claims, lawsuits,
and other proceedings relating to a wide variety of matters. While
uncertainties are inherent in the final outcome of such matters, and it is
presently impossible to determine the actual costs that ultimately may be
incurred, management currently believes that the resolution of such
uncertainties and the incurrence of such costs should not have a material
adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of
operations, or liquidity.
See Note 89 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the
year ended December 31, 1996.
6.1997.
5. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RELATED HEDGING PROGRAMS
At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, the net unrealized loss, including unamortized
net option premiums,gain on KACC's position in
aluminum forward sales and option contracts, (based on an average price of
$1,647$1,643 per ton* ($.75 per pound) of primary aluminum), natural gas, and fuel
oil and diesel fuel forward purchase and option contracts, and forward
foreign exchange contracts, was approximately $11.6.$11.5. Any gains or losses
on the derivative contracts utilized in KACC's hedging activities are
offset by losses or gains, respectively, on the transactions being hedged.
ALUMINA AND ALUMINUM
The Company's earnings are sensitive to changes in the prices of
alumina, primary aluminum and fabricated aluminum products, and also depend
to a significant degree upon the volume and mix of all products sold.
Primary aluminum prices have historically been subject to significant
cyclical fluctuations. During the period from January 1,Since 1993, through
- ------------
*All references to tons in this report refer to metric tons of 2,204.6
pounds.
September 30, 1997, the Average Midwest United States
transaction price for primary aluminum has ranged from approximately $.50
to $1.00 per pound. Alumina prices as well as fabricated aluminum product
prices (which vary considerably among products) are significantly
influenced by changes in the price of primary aluminum but generally lag
behind primary aluminum price changes by up to three months.
From time to time in the ordinary course of business, KACC enters into
hedging transactions to provide price risk management in respect of the net
exposure of earnings resulting from (i) anticipated sales of alumina,
primary aluminum and fabricated aluminum products, less (ii) expected
purchases of certain items, such as aluminum scrap, rolling ingot, and
bauxite, whose prices fluctuate with the price of primary aluminum.
Forward sales contracts are used by KACC to effectively lock-in or fix the price that
- ----------------
*All references to tons in this report refer to metric tons of 2,204.6
pounds.
KACC will receive for its shipments. KACC also uses option contracts (i)
to establish a minimum price for its product shipments, (ii) to establish a
"collar" or range of prices for KACC's anticipated sales, and/or (iii) to
permit KACC to realize possible upside price movements. As of September 30, 1997,March 31,
1998, KACC had sold forward, at fixed prices, approximately 17,300, 93,60076,450 and
24,000 tons of primary aluminum with respect to 1997, 1998 and 1999,
respectively. As of September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, KACC had also purchased put options to
establish a minimum price for approximately 42,100 and 52,00033,750 tons of primary aluminum
with respect to 1997 and 1998 respectively, and had entered into option contracts that established
a price range for an additional 51,000, 231,600173,700, and 124,500 tons for 1997, 1998 and
1999, respectively. Additionally at March 31, 1998, KACC also held fixed
price purchase contracts for 79,800 tons of primary aluminum with respect
to 1998.
As of September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, KACC had sold forward virtually all of the
alumina available to it in excess of its projected internal smelting
requirements for 1997, 1998, 1999 and 19992000 at prices indexed to future prices of
primary aluminum.
ENERGY
KACC is exposed to energy price risk from fluctuating prices for fuel
oil and natural gas consumed in the production process. Accordingly, KACC
from time to time in the ordinary course of business enters into hedging
transactions with major suppliers of energy and energy related financial
instruments. As of September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, KACC had a combination of fixed price
purchase and option contracts for the purchase of approximately 44,00045,000
MMBtu of natural gas per day during the remainder of 1997, and for
41,000 MMBtu of natural gas per day for 1998. As of September 30, 1997,March 31,
1998, KACC also held a combination of fixed price purchase and option
contracts for an average of 228,000, 232,000 and 25,00039,000 barrels per month of fuel
oil per monthand diesel fuel for 1997, 1998 and 1999, respectively.
FOREIGN CURRENCY
KACC enters into forward exchange contracts to hedge material cash
commitments to foreign subsidiaries or affiliates. At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, KACC
had net forward foreign exchange contracts totaling approximately $135.0$198.5
for the purchase of 175.5277.0 Australian dollars from October 1997April 1998 through
December 1998,2000, in respect of its commitments for 1997 and 1998 through 2000
expenditures denominated in Australian dollars.
At September 30, 1997,
KACC also held options to purchase approximately 10.0 Australian dollars
over the last three months of 1997.
See Note 910 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the
year ended December 31, 1996.
7. RESTRUCTURING OF OPERATIONS
The Company has previously disclosed that it set a goal of achieving
significant cost reductions and other profit improvements, with the full
effect planned to be realized in 1998 and beyond, measured against 1996
results. The initiative is based on the Company's conclusion that the
level of performance of its existing facilities and businesses would not
achieve the level of profits the Company considers satisfactory based upon
historic long-term average prices for primary aluminum and alumina. During
the second quarter of 1997, the Company recorded a $19.7 restructuring
charge to reflect actions taken and plans initiated to achieve the reduced
production costs, decreased corporate selling, general and administrative
expenses, and enhanced product mix intended to achieve this goal. The
significant components of the restructuring charge are enumerated below.
ERIE PLANT DISPOSITION
During the second quarter of 1997, the Company formed a joint venture
with a third party related to the assets and liabilities associated with
the wheel manufacturing operations at its Erie, Pennsylvania, fabrication
plant. Management subsequently decided to close the remainder of the Erie
plant in order to consolidate its aluminum forgings operations at two other
facilities for increased efficiency. As a result of the joint venture
formation and plant closure, the Company recognized a net pre-tax loss of
approximately $1.4.
OTHER ASSET DISPOSITIONS
As a part of the Company's profit enhancement and cost reduction
initiative, management made decisions regarding product rationalization and
geographical optimization, which led management to decide to dispose of
certain assets which had nominal operating contribution. These strategic
decisions resulted in the Company recognizing a pre-tax charge for
approximately $15.6 associated with such asset dispositions.
EMPLOYEE AND OTHER COSTS
As a part of the Company's profit enhancement and cost reduction
initiative, management concluded that certain corporate and other staff
functions could be consolidated or eliminated resulting in a second quarter
pre-tax charge of approximately $2.7 for benefit and other costs.
8. COMPLETED ACQUISITION
During June 1997, Kaiser Bellwood Corporation, a newly formed, wholly
owned subsidiary of KACC, completed the acquisition of Reynolds Metals
Company's Bellwood, Virginia, extrusion plant and its existing inventories
for a total purchase price (after post-closing adjustments) of $41.6,
consisting of cash payments of $38.4 and the assumption of approximately
$3.2 of employee related and other liabilities. Upon completion of the
transaction, Kaiser Bellwood Corporation became a subsidiary guarantor
under the indentures in respect of KACC's 9-7/8% Senior Notes due 2002,
10-7/8% Series B and Series D Senior Notes due 2006, and 12-3/4% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2003.
9. CONVERSION OF PRIDES TO COMMON STOCK
During August 1997, the 8,673,850 outstanding shares of PRIDES were
converted into 7,227,848 shares of Common Stock pursuant to the terms of
the PRIDES Certificate of Designations. Further, in accordance with the
PRIDES Certificate of Designations, no dividends were paid or payable for
the period June 30, 1997, to, but not including, the date of conversion.
However, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the
$1.3 of accrued dividends attributable to the period June 30, 1997, to, but
not including, the conversion date is treated as an increase in Additional
capital at the date of conversion and must still be reflected as a
reduction of Net income (loss) available to common shareholders.1997.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
---------------------
This section should be read in conjunction with the response to Item
1, Part I, of this Report.
This section contains statements which constitute "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995. These statements appear in a number of places in this section
(see, for example, "Profit Enhancement"Recent Events and Cost Reduction Initiative,Developments," "Results of
Operations," and "Liquidity and Capital Resources"). Such statements can
be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes,"
"expects," "may," "estimates," "will," "should," "plans" or "anticipates"
or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable
terminology, or by discussions of strategy. Readers are cautioned that any
such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance
and involve significant risks and uncertainties, and that actual results
may vary materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a
result of various factors. These factors include the effectiveness of
management's strategies and decisions, general economic and business
conditions, developments in technology, new or modified statutory or
regulatory requirements, and changing prices and market conditions. This
section and the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1996,1997, each identify other factors that could cause such
differences. No assurance can be given that these are all of the factors
that could cause actual results to vary materially from the forward-looking
statements.
RECENT EVENTS AND DEVELOPMENTS
The Company has previously disclosed that it hasset a goal of achieving
significant$120.0 million of pre-tax cost reductions and other profit improvements,
independent of metal price changes, with the full effect planned to be
realized in 1998 and beyond, measured against 1996 results. Management
believes that recent operating performance has been at a rate which
indicates that its objective will be achieved by the end of 1998. However,
there are inherent uncertainties regarding operating factors and economic
and other external forces (such as the Valco power situation discussed
below), many of which are outside management's direct control, and, as
such, no assurances can be given that the desired benefit of profit
improvements will be achieved.
In addition to working to improve the performance of the Company's
existing assets, the Company has expended significant efforts on analyzing
its current asset portfolio with the intent of focusing its efforts and
capital in sectors of the industry that are considered most attractive.
The initiative is basedinitial steps of this process led to the formation of the AKW wheel
joint venture and the acquisition of the Bellwood aluminum extrusion plant
in Richmond, Virginia. Additional portfolio analysis and initiatives are
ongoing.
As of March 31, 1998, KACC reached agreements under which it will
settle approximately 25,000 of the pending asbestos-related claims over an
extended period. Also during the first quarter of 1998, KACC reached
agreements on asbestos-related coverage matters with two insurance carriers
under which it collected a total of approximately $17.5 million.
As the amounts related to the claim settlements and insurance recoveries
were consistent with the Company's year-end 1997 accrual assumptions, these
events are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's conclusion that the
levelfinancial
position, results of performance of its existing facilities and businesses would not
achieve the level of profits the Company considers satisfactory based upon
historic long-term average prices for primary aluminum and alumina.operations, or liquidity.
During the second quarter of 1997, the Company recorded a $19.7 million
restructuring charge to reflect actions taken and plans initiated to
achieve the reduced production costs, decreased corporate selling, general
and administrative expenses, and enhanced product mix intended to achieve
this goal. See Note 7 of the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial
Statements.
During June 1997, Kaiser Bellwood Corporation, a newly formed, wholly
owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the acquisition of Reynolds
Metals Company's Bellwood, Virginia, extrusion plant and its existing
inventories for a total purchase price of $41.6 million. See Note 8 of
Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements.
During August 1997, the 8,673,850 outstanding shares of PRIDES were
converted into 7,227,848 shares of Common Stock pursuant to the terms of
the PRIDES Certificate of Designations.
The Company currently anticipates that the Volta River Authority may
partially reduce its electric power allocation toApril 1998, the Company's 90% owned-owned Volta Aluminium Company
Limited ("Valco") smelter facility in Ghana announced that it had reached an
agreement with the Volta River Authority ("VRA") to receive compensation in
lieu of the power necessary to run an additional potline that was curtailed
on April 6, 1998. InformalThe compensation is expected to substantially mitigate
the financial impact of the curtailment. As a result of the curtailment,
Valco will be operating one if its five potlines, as compared to 1997, when
Valco operated four potlines. Valco had previously curtailed two of its
potlines in 1998, one in January, for which it received no compensation,
and one in February, for which it will be compensated. As previously
announced, the Company has notified the VRA that it believes it had the
contractual rights at the beginning of 1998 to sufficient energy to run
four and one-half potlines for the balance of the year. Valco continues to
seek compensation from the VRA with respect to the January 1998 reduction
of its power allocation. Valco and the VRA also are in continuing
discussions with local officials suggestconcerning other matters, including steps that regional
rainfall has been insufficientmight be taken
to raisereduce the likelihood of power curtailments beyond 1998. No assurances
can be given as to the success of these discussions, the possibility of
requests from the VRA for additional curtailments, or as to the operating
level of the lake, from which
the facility receives its hydroelectric power, to maintain the current
level of powerValco for the coming year. Formal noticeremainder of Valco's 1998 power
allocation is expected on or about November 15, 1997. Meetings are planned
with local officials for early November to discuss the situation.beyond.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The table on the following page provides selected operational and
financial information on a consolidated basis with respect to the Company
for the quarters ended March 31, 1998, and nine month periods ended September 30, 1997, and 1996.1997. As an integrated aluminum
producer, the Company uses a portion of its bauxite, alumina and primary
aluminum production for additional processing at certain of its other
facilities. Intracompany shipments and sales are excluded from the
information set forth on the following page.
Interim results are not necessarily indicative of those for a full
year.
SELECTED OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(Unaudited)
(In millions of dollars, except shipments and prices)
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,March 31,
------------------------------
------------------------------1998 1997 1996 1997 1996
------------------------------
------------------------------
Shipments: (1)
Alumina 579.2 598.6 1,457.0 1,506.7424.6 385.5
Aluminum products:
Primary aluminum 86.4 88.1 246.9 262.980.5 78.5
Fabricated aluminum products 105.2 83.1 299.5 245.4
------------------------------105.5 93.9
------------------------------
Total aluminum products 191.6 171.2 546.4 508.3
==============================186.0 172.4
==============================
Average realized sales price:
Alumina (per ton) $ 200201 $ 187 $ 196 $ 199190
Primary aluminum (per pound) .76 .67.71 .75 .69
Net sales:
Bauxite and alumina:
Alumina $ 115.985.5 $ 111.7 $ 285.6 $ 300.273.2
Other (2) (3) 27.1 25.8 80.2 77.2
------------------------------25.7 26.6
------------------------------
Total bauxite and alumina 143.0 137.5 365.8 377.4
------------------------------111.2 99.8
------------------------------
Aluminum processing:
Primary aluminum 145.0 130.6 409.5 402.8126.2 129.2
Fabricated aluminum products 341.7 282.4 990.6 861.4356.9 314.4
Other (3) 4.4 2.9 12.7 10.5
------------------------------ ------------------------------2.7 4.0
--------------- --------------
Total aluminum processing 491.1 415.9 1,412.8 1,274.7
------------------------------485.8 447.6
------------------------------
Total net sales $ 634.1597.0 $ 553.4 $ 1,778.6 $ 1,652.1
==============================547.4
==============================
Operating income (loss):
Bauxite and alumina $ 8.86.1 $ (2.1) $ 14.8 $ 8.8(1.5)
Aluminum processing (4) 64.1 29.1 161.6 127.856.1 51.3
Corporate (5) (18.4) (16.5) (55.3) (49.2)
------------------------------(17.4) (18.5)
------------------------------
Total operating income $ 54.544.8 $ 10.5 $ 121.1 $ 87.4
==============================31.3
==============================
Net income (loss) $ 17.512.0 $ (6.6) $ 33.8 $ 11.5
==============================2.6
==============================
Capital expenditures $ 25.913.7 $ 39.2 $ 94.7 $ 91.1
==============================21.8
==============================
[FN]
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) In thousands of metric tons.
(2) Includes net sales of bauxite.
(3) Includes the portion of net sales attributable to minority interests
in consolidated subsidiaries.
(4) Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 includes
a pre-tax charge of $15.1 related to restructuring of operations
recorded in the quarter ended June 30, 1997.
(5) Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 includes
a pre-tax charge of $4.6 related to restructuring of operations
recorded in the quarter ended June 30, 1997.
OVERVIEW
The Company's operating results are sensitive to changes in prices of
alumina, primary aluminum, and fabricated aluminum products, and also
depend to a significant degree on the volume and mix of all products sold
and on KACC's hedging strategies. Primary aluminum prices have
historically been subject to significant cyclical fluctuations. Alumina
prices as well as fabricated aluminum product prices (which vary
considerably among products) are significantly influenced by changes in the
price of primary aluminum but generally lag behind primary aluminum price
changes by up to three months.
During the first nine months of 1997, the Average Midwest United
States transaction priceTransaction Price ("AMT Price") for
primary aluminum remained relativelyfairly stable generally in the $.75 - $.80 range
through November and then declined during December to the $.70 - $.75
range. During the first three months of 1998, the AMT Price for primary
aluminum was generally in the $.68 - $.73 per pound range. The AMT Price
for primary aluminum for the week ended October 31, 1997,April 24, 1998, was approximately
$.77$.70 per pound.
This compares favorably to 1996 when the AMT
Price remained fairly stable generally in the $.70 - $.75 range through
June and then declined during the second half of the year, reaching a low
of approximately $.65 per pound for October 1996, before recovering late in
the year.
See Note 65 of the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
for a discussion of KACC's hedging activities.
QUARTER AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997,MARCH 31, 1998, COMPARED TO QUARTER AND
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996MARCH 31, 1997
SUMMARY
The Company reported net income of $17.5$12.0 million, or $.22$.15 of basic
earnings per common
and common equivalent share, for the thirdfirst quarter of 1997,1998, compared to a net lossincome
of $6.6$2.6 million, or $.12$.01 of basic earnings per common and common equivalent share, for the same period
of 1996.1997. Net sales in the thirdfirst quarter of 19971998 totaled $634.1$597.0 million
compared to $553.4$547.4 million in the thirdfirst quarter of 1996.
For the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, net income was
$33.8 million, or $.39 per common and common equivalent share compared to
net income of $11.5 million, or $.07 per common and common equivalent per
share for the nine-month period ended September 30, 1996. Net sales for
the nine months ended September 30, 1997, were $1,778.6 million compared to
$1,652.1 million for the first nine months of 1996.
Results for the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, include
the effect of certain non-recurring items including a $19.7 million
restructuring charge (discussed above), an approximate $12.5 million non-
cash tax benefit related to settlement of certain matters and a $5.8
million charge related to additional litigation reserves. Excluding these
items, net income for the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, would
have been approximately $37.1 million, and primary earnings per common and
common equivalent share for the period would have been $.43.1997.
BAUXITE AND ALUMINA
Net sales of alumina increased by 4%16% for the quarter ended September
30, 1997,March 31,
1998, from the comparable period in the prior year, as a result of a 7%6%
increase in average realized prices from the sale of alumina offset byand a 3% decline10%
increase in alumina shipments. ShipmentThe fluctuation in shipment volumes were down as
compared to the quarter ended September 30, 1996,March 31, 1997, was primarily as a result ofattributable to
the timing of shipments. For the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, net
segment sales declined by 3% from the comparable period in the prior year.
This change was due to a 2% decrease in average realized prices between
periods and a 3% reduction in alumina shipments. Segment operating income improved substantially
on a quarter to quarter basis and, to a lesser extent, for the comparative nine month
periods as well. On a quarterly basis, thebasis. The improvement resulted primarily from
improvements in average realized prices and operating efficiencies and
reduced raw material and energy prices. On a year-to-date basis, these
improvements were somewhat offset by the impact of reductions in both the
average realized alumina price and alumina shipments as discussed above.
ALUMINUM PROCESSING
Net sales of primary aluminum for the quarter ended September 30,
1997, increasedMarch 31, 1998,
decreased by 11%2% from the comparable prior year period as a result of a 13% increase5%
decrease in average realized prices offset by a 2% decrease3% increase in shipments.
Net sales of fabricated aluminum products for the quarter ended September 30, 1997,March 31,
1998, were up 21%14% as compared to the prior year period as a result of a 27%12%
increase in shipments offset byand a 4% decrease2% increase in average realized prices. The
increase in fabricated aluminum product shipments over the thirdfirst quarter of
19961997 was the result of the Company's June 1997 acquisition of anthe Bellwood
extrusion facility in Bellwood,Richmond, Virginia, as well as increased international sales of can sheet and increased shipments of
heat-
treatedheat-treat products.
For the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, net salesOperating income for the aluminum processing segment increased by
approximately 11% from$5.0 million as reduced power and material costs and improved
operating efficiencies in the comparable prior year period primarilyprimary aluminum smelting operations, as a result of a 15% increasewell
as improvements in the Company's fabricated aluminum product net sales. The increase in fabricated product
net sales resulted fromproducts operations,
more than offset the same shipment and price factors discussed inimpact of the preceding paragraph. Net sales of primary aluminum for the nine-month
period ended September 30, 1997, were basically flat as compared to the
prior year as reduced shipments for the period were offset by an increasedecline in the average realized price.
In additionprice
for primary aluminum and the impacts of the Valco potline curtailments
discussed above. The quarter-over-quarter improvement in the Company's
fabricated aluminum products operations reflects the impacts of the Bellwood
acquisition, continued demand for heat-treat products, and an improvement
in operating performance. The impact of the Valco potline curtailments was
only partially reflected in operating results as one of the potlines was
curtailed after quarter-end and as the two lines curtailed prior to being affected byMarch
31, 1998, operated for part of the price and volume factors
discussed above, the aluminum processing segment'squarter. Reduced operating income for the
nine months ended September 30, 1997, also benefited from reduced power,
raw material and supply costsresults
attributable to such first quarter 1998 curtailments, as well as
improved operating efficiencies.
In addition,incremental charges recorded in the segment's operatingquarter associated with potline shut-
down costs, were partially offset by compensation recorded by the Company
(which will be received over an 18 month period beginning in June 1998) for
one of the two lines curtailed during the quarter. As previously stated,
Valco continues to seek compensation with respect to the January 1998
potline curtailment, but no assurance can be given that Valco will be
successful in this regard. Operating income for the quarter and nine month
period ended September 30,March
31, 1997, includesincluded approximately $2.7 million and
$7.5$5.0 million of operating income realized
during the periods,period related to the settlement of certain issues related to
energy service contracts.
Operating income for the nine-month period ended September 30, 1997, also
includes a $15.1 million second quarter charge resulting from the
restructuring of operations.
CORPORATE
Corporate operating expenses represent corporate general and
administrative expenses, which are not allocated to the Company's business
segments.
Operating results for the nine-month period ended September 30,
1997, includes a pre-tax charge of approximately $4.6 million associated
with the Company's restructuring of operations.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
CAPITAL STRUCTURE
MAXXAM Inc. ("MAXXAM") and MAXXAM Group Holdings Inc. ("MGHI"), aone of its wholly owned subsidiary of MAXXAM,subsidiaries
collectively own approximately 63% of the Company's Common Stock, par value $.01 per share. Thewith the
remaining approximately 37% of the Company's Common Stock isbeing publicly
held. MGHI has pledged 27,938,250Certain of the shares of the Company's Common Stock beneficially
owned by it (the "Pledged Shares") as security for $225.7
millionMAXXAM are subject to certain pledge agreements by MAXXAM and its
subsidiaries.
During August 1997, the remaining 8,673,850 shares of debt securities of one of its wholly owned subsidiaries.
Additionally, MGHI has agreed to pledge up to 16,055,000 of such Pledged
Shares as security for $130.0 million of its debt securities should the
security pledge related to the $225.7 million of debt securities be
released due to an early retirement of the related debt (other than by a
refinancing).
The Company has an effective "shelf" registration statement covering
the offering of up to 10,000,000outstanding
PRIDES were converted into 7,227,848 shares of the Company's Common Stock
that
are owned by MAXXAM. Any such offering would only be made by means of a
prospectus. The Company will not receive any of the net proceeds from any
transaction initiated by MAXXAM pursuant to this registration statement.the PRIDES Certificate of Designations.
The Company also has an effective "shelf" registration statement covering
the offering from time to time of up to $150.0 million of equity
securities. Any such offering will only be made by means of a prospectus.
The Company also has an effective "shelf" registration statement covering
the offering of up to 10,000,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock that
are owned by MAXXAM. The Company will not receive any of the net proceeds
from any transaction initiated by MAXXAM pursuant to this registration
statement.
The Credit Agreement does not permit the Company or KACC to pay any
dividends on their common stock.
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, the Company had working capital of $469.8$465.7 million,
compared with working capital of $414.3$451.5 million at December 31, 1996.1997. The
increase in working capital was due primarily to an increaseresults from decreases in Accounts
payable and other current liabilities more than offsetting decreases in
Receivables and a decrease in Accounts payable partially offset by a
decrease in Cash and cash equivalents.Inventories.
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures during the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, were
$25.9$13.7 million and $94.7 million, respectively, and were used primarily to acquire the Bellwood extrusion facility from
Reynolds, improve production efficiency,
reduce operating costs, expand capacity at existing facilities, and
construct new facilities. The
Company's first Micromill(TM) facility, which was constructed in Nevada
during 1996 as a demonstration and production facility, achieved
operational start-up by year-end 1996. The facility remained in a start-up
mode during the first nine months of 1997 as the Company continued its
efforts to implement the Micromill(TM) technology on a full scale basis.
While the Micromill(TM) technology has not yet been fully implemented or
commercialized, and no assurances can be given that the Company will
ultimately be successful in this regards, the Company currently expects to
commence limited product shipments to customers in the fourth quarter of
1997.
Total consolidated capital expenditures (of
which approximately 7%8% is expected to be funded by the Company's minority
partners in certain foreign joint ventures) are expected to be between
$70.0$75.0 and $140.0$125.0 million per annum in each of 19971998 through 1999.2000.
During the first quarter of 1998, the first Micromill(TM) facility,
which was constructed in Nevada during 1996 as a demonstration and
production facility, delivered its first commercial product shipments to
customers, but the amount of such shipments was minimal. Additional
product trials for international and domestic customers are ongoing and the
Company currently expects increased commercial deliveries from the facility
during the second quarter of 1998. However, the Micromill(TM) technology
has not yet been fully implemented or commercialized, and there can be no
assurances that full implementation or commercialization will be
successful.
Management continues to evaluate numerous projects, including the
Micromill(TM) technology, all of which would require substantial capital, including the
Company's Micromill project, and other potential opportunities
both in the United States and overseas.
Subsequent to September 30, 1997, a joint decision was made by a
KACC subsidiary and its joint venture partner to terminate and dissolve
the Sino-foreign aluminum joint venture in which the subsidiary had
invested approximately $9.0 million in 1995. Under the terms of the
joint venture agreement and Chinese law, a distribution of the joint
venture's net assets is to be made to each of the parties in respect of
their individual ownership interests. The amount that will ultimately be
received upon dissolution and the associated terms of any payments are the
subject of ongoing negotiations and is subject to certain governmental
approvals by officials of the People's Republic of China.
FINANCING ACTIVITIES AND LIQUIDITY
At September 30, 1997,March 31, 1998, the Company had long-term debt of $972.0$970.6 million,
compared with $961.9$971.7 million at December 31, 1996. The change in
long-term debt between periods is primarily the result of $19.0 million of
proceeds from the Spokane County, Washington, Solid Waste Disposal Revenue
Bonds, which were loaned to KACC to finance certain qualifying capital
expenditures at its Mead smelter, offset by scheduled payments of the
current portion of long-term debt.1997.
At September 30, 1997, $273.8March 31, 1998, $272.1 million (of which $73.8$52.9 million could have
been used for letters of credit) was available to KACC under the Credit
Agreement.Agreement and no amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit
facility. Loans under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a spread
(which varies based on the results of a financial test) over either a base
rate or LIBOR at the Company's option. During the quarter and nine
month period ended September 30, 1997,March 31,
1998, the average per annum interest rates on loans outstanding under the
Credit Agreement werewas approximately 9.0% and
9.5%, respectively. Upon completion of the acquisition of the Bellwood
facility, Kaiser Bellwood Corporation became a subsidiary guarantor under
the indentures in respect of KACC's 9-7/8% Senior Notes due 2002, 10-7/8%
Series B and Series D Senior Notes due 2006, and 12-3/4% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2003.9%.
Management believes that the Company's existing cash resources,
together with cash flows from operations and borrowings under the Credit
Agreement, will be sufficient to meet its working capital and capital
expenditure requirements for the next year. Additionally, with respect to
long-term liquidity, management believes that operating cash flow, together
with the ability to obtain both short and long-term financing, should
provide sufficient funds to meet the Company's working capital and capital
expenditure requirements.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
-----------------
Asbestos-related Litigation
KACC is a defendant in a number of lawsuits, some of which involve
claims of multiple persons, in which the plaintiffs allege that certain of
their injuries were caused by, among other things, exposure to asbestos
during, and as a result of, their employment or association with KACC or
exposure to products containing asbestos produced or sold by KACC. The
portion of Note 54 of the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
contained in this report under the heading "Asbestos Contingencies" is
incorporated herein by reference. See Part I, Item 3. "LEGAL PROCEEDINGS -
Asbestos-related Litigation" in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1996.1997.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
--------------------------------
(a) Exhibits.
Exhibit No. Exhibit
----------- -------
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Kaiser Aluminum
Corporation (the "Company" or "KAC"), dated February 21, 1991
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Amendment No. 2 to
the Registration Statement on Form S-1, dated June 11, 1991,
filed by KAC, Registration No. 33-37895).
3.2 Certificate of Retirement of KAC, dated October 24, 1995
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1995, filed by KAC, File
No. 1-9447).
*3.33.3 Certificate of Retirement of KAC, dated February 12, 1998,
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Report on Form
10-K for the period ended December 31, 1997, filed by KAC, File
No. 1-9447).
3.4 Amended and Restated Bylaws of KAC, dated October 1, 1997.
*4.7 Eleventh Amendment1997
(incorporated by reference to CreditExhibit 3.3 to the Report on Form
10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 1997, filed by
KAC, File No. 1-9447).
*10 Form of Deferred Fee Agreement between KAC, Kaiser Aluminum &
Chemical Corporation ("KACC"), and Limited Waivers, dated
asdirectors of October 20, 1997, amending the Credit Agreement, dated as
of February 15, 1994, as amended, among KACC, KAC the financial
institutions a party thereto, and BankAmerica Business Credit,
Inc., as Agent.KACC.
*27 Financial Data Schedule.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
A CurrentNo Report on Form 8-K was filed by the Company (under Item 5.)
on August 15, 1997, announcingduring the Company's intention to redeem its
8.255% PRIDES, Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $.05 per share
("PRIDES"), on August 29, 1997, pursuant to the PRIDES Certificate of
Designations.quarter
ended March 31, 1998.
- ---------------
* Filed herewith
SIGNATURE
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, who have signed this report on
behalf of the registrant as the principal financial officer and principal
accounting officer of the registrant, respectively.
KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION
/s/ John T. La Duc
By: ----------------------------
John T. La Duc
Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ Daniel D. Maddox
By: ----------------------------
Daniel D. Maddox
Controller - Corporate
Consolidation and Reporting
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Dated: NovemberMay 5, 19971998