OR For the fiscal year endedDecember 31, 2007 OR OR Commission file number0-27466o REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g)o REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDEDDECEMBER 31, 2006o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 o SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934ORo SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
NICE-SYSTEMS LTD. |
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) |
N/A |
(Translation of Registrant's name into English) |
Israel |
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
8 Hapnina Street, P.O. Box 690, Ra'anana 43107, Israel |
(Address of principal executive offices) |
Dafna Gruber, +972-9-7753151,dafna.gruber@nice.com, 8 Hapnina Street, P.O.Box 690, Ra'anana 43107, Israel |
(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person) |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Name of Each Exchange | |||
Title of Each Class | On Which Registered |
American Depositary Shares, each representing | NASDAQ Global Select Market | |
one Ordinary Share, par value one | ||
New Israeli Shekel per share | ||
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None |
(Title of Class) |
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None |
(Title of Class) |
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’sissuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:
51,091,51259,825,653 Ordinary Shares, par value NIS 1.00 Per Share (which includes 412,841 restricted shares)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
xYes oNo
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
oYes xNo
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:
xYes oNo
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated"accelerated filer and large accelerated filer”filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filerx | Accelerated filero | Non-accelerated filero |
Large accelerated filerx Accelerated filero Non-accelerated filero Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
x | U.S. GAAP |
o | International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board |
o | Other |
Indicate If "Other" has been checked in response to the previous question indicate by check mark which financial statements the registrant has elected to follow:
oItem 17 x oItem 18
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
oYes xNo
PRELIMINARY NOTE
This annual report contains historical information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to NICE’sNICE's business, financial condition and results of operations. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “should,” “strategy,” “continue,” “goal”"anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "project," "should," "strategy," "continue," "goal" and “target”"target" and similar expressions, as they relate to NICE or its management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views and assumptions of NICE with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements relate to, among other things: operating results; anticipated cash flows; gross margins; adequacy of resources to fund operations; our ability to maintain our average selling prices despite the aggressive marketing and pricing strategies of our competitors; our ability to maintain and develop profitable relationships with our key distribution channels, one of which constitutes 16%13% of our revenues; the financial strength of our key distribution channels; and the market’smarket's acceptance of our technologies, products and solutions.
In connection with the “safe harbor”"safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are identifying important factors that, individually or in the aggregate, could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements made by us; any such statement is qualified by reference to the following cautionary statements. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of NICE to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates, difficulties or delays in absorbing and integrating acquired operations, products, technologies and personnel, changes in business strategy and various other factors, both referenced and not referenced in this annual report. These risks are more fully described under Item 3, “Key"Key Information –- Risk Factors”Factors" of this annual report. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended, planned or projected. NICE does not intend or assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Investors should bear this in mind as they consider forward-looking statements and whether to invest or remain invested in NICE-Systems Ltd.‘s's securities.
In this annual report, all references to “NICE,” “we,” “us”"NICE," "we," "us" or “our”"our" are to NICE-Systems Ltd., a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel, and its wholly owned subsidiaries. For a list of our significant subsidiaries, please refer to page 4551 of this annual report.
In this annual report, unless otherwise specified or unless the context otherwise requires, all references to “$”"$" or “dollars”"dollars" are to U.S. dollars and all references to “NIS”"NIS" are to New Israeli Shekels. Except as otherwise indicated, the financial statements of and information regarding NICE are presented in U.S. dollars.
All share and per share information in this annual report has been adjusted to give retroactive effect toDuring May 2006, we effected a two-for-one split of our ordinary shares. The split was effected by way of a 100% stock dividend, which had an ex-dividend date of May 31, 2006. Unless otherwise indicated, all ordinary share, option and per share amounts in this annual report have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to the stock split for all periods presented.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
Item 1. | Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers. |
Not Applicable.
Item 2. | Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable. |
Not Applicable.
Item 3. | Key Information. |
The following selected consolidated financial data as of December 31, 20052006 and 20062007 and for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 20062007 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, and audited by Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global. The consolidated selected financial data as of December 31, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 20042005 and for the years ended December 31, 20022003 and 20032004 have been derived from other consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements not included in this annual report and have also been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and audited by Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global. The selected consolidated financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with and are qualified by reference to Item 5, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto and other financial information included elsewhere in this annual report.
2
Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data) | (U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATING DATA: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products | $ | 127,896 | $ | 168,055 | $ | 182,616 | $ | 206,355 | $ | 261,098 | $ | 168,055 | $ | 182,616 | $ | 206,355 | $ | 261,098 | $ | 316,888 | ||||||||||||||
Services | 27,445 | 56,203 | 70,027 | 104,755 | 148,546 | 56,203 | 70,027 | 104,755 | 148,546 | 200,486 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 155,341 | 224,258 | 252,643 | 311,110 | 409,644 | 224,258 | 252,643 | 311,110 | 409,644 | 517,374 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products | 55,453 | 64,231 | 64,432 | 67,543 | 84,675 | 64,231 | 64,432 | 67,543 | 84,675 | 89,373 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Services | 26,054 | 42,084 | 49,876 | 68,683 | 89,539 | 42,084 | 49,876 | 68,683 | 89,539 | 116,969 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total cost of revenues | 81,507 | 106,315 | 114,308 | 136,226 | 174,214 | 106,315 | 114,308 | 136,226 | 174,214 | 206,342 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross profit | 73,834 | 117,943 | 138,335 | 174,884 | 235,430 | 117,943 | 138,335 | 174,884 | 235,430 | 311,032 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: | Operating expenses: | Operating expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development, net | 17,122 | 22,833 | 24,866 | 30,896 | 44,880 | 22,833 | 24,866 | 30,896 | 44,880 | 59,632 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Selling and marketing | 38,685 | 53,351 | 61,855 | 72,829 | 95,190 | 53,351 | 61,855 | 72,829 | 95,190 | 120,592 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
General and administrative | 23,806 | 29,840 | 31,269 | 37,742 | 60,463 | 29,840 | 31,269 | 37,742 | 60,463 | 85,089 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 58 | 350 | 317 | 1,331 | 4,918 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
In process research and development write-off | - | - | - | - | 12,882 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of acquired intangible | Amortization of acquired intangible | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
assets | 350 | 317 | 1,331 | 4,918 | 9,175 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
In process research and development | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
write-off | - | - | - | 12,882 | 3,710 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other special charges | 29,092 | 7,082 | - | - | - | 7,082 | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 108,763 | 113,456 | 118,307 | 142,798 | 218,333 | 113,456 | 118,307 | 142,798 | 218,333 | 278,198 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | (34,929 | ) | 4,487 | 20,028 | 32,086 | 17,097 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income | 4,487 | 20,028 | 32,086 | 17,097 | 32,834 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial income, net | 3,992 | 2,034 | 3,556 | 5,398 | 13,272 | 2,034 | 3,556 | 5,398 | 13,272 | 14,824 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other income (expenses), net | (4,065 | ) | 292 | 54 | (13 | ) | 623 | 292 | 54 | (13 | ) | 623 | (24 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before taxes on income | (35,002 | ) | 6,813 | 23,638 | 37,471 | 30,992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income before taxes on income | 6,813 | 23,638 | 37,471 | 30,992 | 47,634 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Taxes on income | 350 | 1,205 | 2,319 | 902 | 8,591 | 1,205 | 2,319 | 902 | 8,591 | 10,254 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations. | (35,352 | ) | 5,608 | 21,319 | 36,569 | 22,401 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income from continuing operations | 5,608 | 21,319 | 36,569 | 22,401 | 37,380 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income from discontinuing operations | 1,370 | 1,483 | 3,236 | - | - | 1,483 | 3,236 | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (33,982 | ) | $ | 7,091 | $ | 24,555 | $ | 36,569 | $ | 22,401 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income) | $ | 7,091 | $ | 24,555 | $ | 36,569 | $ | 22,401 | $ | 37,380 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic earnings (loss) per share (1): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic earnings per share: | Basic earnings per share: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Continuing operations | $ | (1.28 | ) | $ | 0.18 | $ | 0.61 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.45 | $ | 0.18 | $ | 0.61 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.45 | $ | 0.69 | |||||||||||||
Discontinued operations | 0.05 | 0.04 | 0.09 | - | - | 0.04 | 0.09 | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | $ | (1.23 | ) | $ | 0.22 | $ | 0.70 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.45 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings | $ | 0.22 | $ | 0.70 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.45 | $ | 0.69 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of shares used in computing basic | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
earnings (loss) per share (in thousands) | 27,590 | 32,076 | 34,994 | 38,242 | 49,572 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of shares used in | Weighted average number of shares used in | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
computing basic earnings per share (in | computing basic earnings per share (in | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
thousands) | 32,076 | 34,994 | 38,242 | 49,572 | 53,921 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted earnings (loss) per share (1): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted earnings per share: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Continuing operations | $ | (1.28 | ) | $ | 0.17 | $ | 0.57 | $ | 0.89 | $ | 0.43 | $ | 0.17 | $ | 0.57 | $ | 0.89 | $ | 0.43 | $ | 0.67 | |||||||||||||
Discontinued operations | 0.05 | 0.04 | 0.09 | - | - | 0.04 | 0.09 | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | $ | (1.23 | ) | $ | 0.21 | $ | 0.66 | $ | 0.89 | $ | 0.43 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings | $ | 0.21 | $ | 0.66 | $ | 0.89 | $ | 0.43 | $ | 0.67 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of shares used in computing diluted | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
earnings (loss) per share (in thousands) | 27,590 | 33,562 | 37,406 | 41,292 | 52,002 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of shares used in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
computing diluted earnings per share (in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
thousands) | 33,562 | 37,406 | 41,292 | 52,002 | 55,926 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1) During May 2006 we effected a two-for-one stock split of our ordinary shares. All ordinary shares, options and per share amounts have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to such stock split for all periods presented.
3
At December 31, | At December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
BALANCE SHEET DATA: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Working capital | $ | 79,583 | $ | 56,174 | $ | 51,428 | $ | 274,708 | $ | 116,327 | $ | 56,174 | $ | 51,428 | $ | 274,708 | $ | 111,800 | $ | 152,883 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | 236,288 | 249,415 | 298,311 | 617,250 | 784,344 | 249,415 | 298,311 | 617,250 | 784,344 | 1,192,334 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total debt | 24 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shareholders' equity | 154,536 | 176,831 | 222,871 | 487,041 | 569,574 | 176,831 | 222,871 | 487,041 | 569,574 | 903,794 |
4
General Business Risks Relating to Our Business Portfolio and StructureMarket
The markets in which we operate are characterized by rapid technological changes and frequent new products and service introductions. We may not be able to keep up with these rapid technological and other changes.
We operate in several markets, each characterized by rapidly changing technology, new product introductions and evolving industry standards. The introduction of products embodying new technology and the emergence of new industry standards can render existing products obsolete and unmarketable and can exert price pressures on existing products. We anticipate that aA number of existing and potential competitors will be introducingmight introduce new and enhanced products that could adversely affect the competitive position of our products. Our most significant market is the market for voice recording platforms and related enhanced applications (or Voice Platforms and Applications). Voice Platforms and Applications are utilized by the enterprise sector, which includes entities operating in the contact center, trading floor, branches, home agents and back offices, and by the security sector, which includes homeland security and first responders, transportation organizations and the public safety and air traffic control segmentsprivate sector, to capture, store, retrieve and analyze recorded data. The market for our Voice Platforms and Applications is, in particular, characterized by a group of highly competitive vendors that are introducing rapidly changing competitive offerings around evolving industry standards.
Our ability to anticipate changes in technology and industry standards and to successfully develop and introduce new, enhanced and competitive products, on a timely basis, in all the markets in which we operate, will be a critical factor in our ability to grow and be competitive. As a result, we expect to continue to make significant expenditures on research and development, particularly with respect to new software applications, which are continuously required in all our business areas. The convergence of voice and data networks and wired and wireless communications could require substantial modification and customization of our current multi-dimensional products and business models, as well as the introduction of new multi-dimensional products. Further, customer acceptance of these new technologies may be slower than we anticipate. We cannot assure you that the market or demand for our products and solutions will grow as rapidly as we expect, if at all, that we will successfully develop new products or introduce new applications for existing products, that such new products and applications will achieve market acceptance or that the introduction of new products or technological developments by others will not render our products obsolete. In addition, our products must readily integrate with major third party security, telephone, front-office and back-office systems. Any changes to these third party systems could require us to redesign our products, and any such redesign might not be possible on a timely basis or achieve market acceptance. Our inability to develop products that are competitive in technology and price and responsive to customer needs could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additional factors that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations include industry specific factors; our ability to continuously develop, introduce and deliver commercially viable products, solutions and technologies; the market’s rate of acceptance of the product solutions and technologies we offer; and our ability to keep pace with market and technology changes and to compete successfully.
5
Our business could be materially adversely affected as a result of the risks associated with acquisitions and investments. In particular, we may not succeed in making additional acquisitions or be effective in integrating such acquisitions.
As part of our growth strategy, we have made a number of acquisitions and expect to continue to make acquisitions. We frequently evaluate the tactical or strategic opportunity available related to complementary businesses, products or technologies. The process of integrating an acquired company’s business into our operations, including the business of Actimize Ltd., and/or of investing in new technologies, may result in unforeseen operating difficulties and large expenditures and may absorb significant management attention that would otherwise be available for the ongoing development of our business. Other risks commonly encountered with acquisitions include the effect of the acquisition on our financial and strategic position and reputation, the failure of the acquired business to further our strategies, the inability to successfully integrate or commercialize acquired technologies or otherwise realize anticipated synergies or economies of scale on a timely basis, and the potential impairment of acquired assets. Moreover, there can be no assurance that the anticipated benefits of any acquisition or investment will be realized. Future acquisitions or investments could result in potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities, the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities, and amortization expenses related to intangible assets, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in making additional acquisitions or effective in integrating such acquisitions into our existing business. In addition, if we consummate one or more significant acquisitions in which the consideration consists, in whole or in part, of ordinary shares or American Depositary Shares (ADSs), representing our ordinary shares, shareholders would suffer dilution of their interests in us. We have also invested in companies which can still be considered in the start-up or development stages. These investments are inherently risky as the market for the technologies or products they have under development are typically in the early stages and may never materialize. We could lose our entire initial investment in these companies.
We have expanded into new markets and may not be able to manage our expansion and anticipated growth effectively.
WeOver the last few years we have established a sales management and service infrastructure in IndiaAsia and the Pacific (the APAC region), by recruiting sales management sales and service personnel in order to bring about further growth in revenue in the Asia Pacific market and have expanded our professional services group to include business consultants. Also, since 2002 we have been expanding our presence in Europe (mainly in the United Kingdom) and in the Middle East and Africa (the EMEA region) through organic growth and through our acquisition of Thales Contact Solutions (or TCS) and FAST Video Security.acquisitions. We may establish additional operations within these regions or in other regions where growth opportunities are projected to warrant the investment.projected. However, we cannot assure you that our revenues will increase as a result of this expansion or that we will be able to recover the expenses we incurred in effecting the expansion. Our failure to effectively manage our expansion of our sales, marketing, service and support organizations could have a negative impact on our business. To accommodate our global expansion, we are continuously implementing new or expanded business systems, procedures and controls. There can be no assurance that the implementation of such systems, procedures, controls and other internal systems can be completed successfully.
6
Our evolving business strategy could adversely affect our business.
Historically we have supplied the hardware and some software for implementing multimedia recording solutions. Our shift towards providing value-added services and an enterprise software business model has required and will continue to require substantial change, potentially resulting in some disruption to our business. These changes may include changes in management, sales force and technical personnel; expanded or differing competition resulting from entering the enterprise software market; increased need to expand our distribution network to include system integrators which could impact revenues and gross margins; and, as our applications are sold either to our installed base or to new customers together with our recording platforms, the rate of adoption of our software applications by the market.
The changes in our business may place a significant strain on our operational and financial resources. We may experience substantial disruption from changes and could incur significant expenses and write-offs. Failing to carefully manage expense and inventory levels consistent with product demand and to carefully manage accounts receivable to limit credit risk, could materially adversely affect our results of operations.
We depend upon outsourcers for the manufacture of our key products. The failure of our product manufacturers to meet our quality or delivery requirements would likely have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
In 2002, we entered into a manufacturing agreement with Flextronics Israel Ltd., a subsidiary of Flextronics, a global electronics manufacturing, services company. Under this agreement, Flextronics provides us with a comprehensive manufacturing solution that covers all aspects of the manufacture of our products from order receipt to product shipment, including purchasing, manufacturing, testing, configuration, and delivery services. This agreement covers all of our products. In connection with the acquisition of Dictaphone Corporation’s Communications Recordings Systems division (or CRS), we also have a manufacturing agreement with Bulova Technologies EMS LLC (Bulova), pursuant to which Bulova manufactures all ex-CRS products. As a result of these arrangements, we are now fully dependent on Flextronics and Bulova to process orders and manufacture our products. Consequently, the manufacturing process of our products is not in our direct control.
We may from time to time experience delivery delays due to the inability of Flextronics and Bulova to consistently meet our quality or delivery requirements and we may experience production interruptions if any of Flextronics or Bulova is for any reason unable to continue the production of our products. Should we have on-going performance issues with our contract manufacturers, the process to move from one contractor to another is a lengthy and costly process that could affect our ability to execute customer shipment requirements and/or might negatively affect revenue and/or costs. If these manufacturersthis manufacturer or any other manufacturer were to cancel contracts or commitments with us or fail to meet the quality or delivery requirements needed to satisfy customer orders for our products, we could lose time-sensitive customer orders and have significantly decreased quarterly revenues and earnings, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
7
Undetected problems in our products could directly impair our financial results.
If flaws in the design, production, assemblyIncorrect or testingimproper use of our products (by usor failure to properly provide training, consulting, implementation and maintenance services could result in negative publicity and legal liability.
Our products and solutions are complex and are deployed in a wide variety of network environments. The proper use of our software requires extensive training and, if our software products are not used correctly or as intended, inaccurate results may be produced. Our products may also be intentionally misused or abused by clients who use our products. The incorrect or improper use of our products or our suppliers) werefailure to occur, we could experience a rate of failure inproperly provide training, consulting, implementation and maintenance services to our products that wouldclients may result in substantial repair, replacement or service costs and potential liability and damage tolosses suffered by our reputation. There can be no assurance that our efforts to monitor, develop, modify and implement appropriate test and manufacturing processes for our products will be sufficient to permit us to avoid a rate of failure in our products that results in substantial delays in shipment, significant repair or replacement costs or potential damage to our reputation, any ofclients, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operationsresult in negative publicity and financial condition.product liability or other legal claims against us.
Certain components and subassemblies that are used in the manufacture of our existing products are purchased from a single or a limited number of suppliers. In the event that any of these suppliers are unable to meet our requirements in a timely manner, we may experience an interruption in production until an alternative source of supply can be obtained. Any disruption, or any other interruption of a supplier’s ability to provide components to us, could result in delays in making product shipments, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, some of our major suppliers use proprietary technology and software code that could require significant redesign of our products in the case of a change in vendor. Further, as suppliers discontinue their products, or modify them in manners incompatible with our current use, or use manufacturing processes and tools that could not be easily migrated to other vendors, we could have significant delays in product availability, which would have a significant adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition. Although we generally maintain an inventory for some of our components and subassemblies to limit the potential for an interruption and we believe that we can obtain alternative sources of supply in the event our suppliers are unable to meet our requirements in a timely manner, we cannot assure you that our inventory and alternative sources of supply would be sufficient to avoid a material interruption or delay in production and in availability of spare parts.
We rely on software from third parties. If we lose the right to use that software, we would have to spend additional capital to redesign our existing software or develop new software.
We integrate various third party software products as components of our products. We utilize third party software products to enhance the functionality of our products. Our business could be disrupted if functional versions of this software were either no longer available to us or no longer offered to us on commercially reasonable terms. In either case, we would be required to spend additional capital to either redesign our software to function with alternate third party software or develop these components ourselves. We might as a result be forced to limit the features available in our current or future product offerings and the commercial release of our products could be delayed.
8
The European Union has issued directives relating to the sale in member countries of electrical and electronic equipment, including products sold by us. If our products fail to comply with these directives, we could be subject to penalties and sanctions that could materially adversely affect our business.
A directive issued by the European Union on the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment, or “RoHS,” came into effect on July 1, 2006. The RoHS directive lists a number of substances including, among others, lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers, which must either be removed or reduced to within maximum permitted concentrations in any products containing electrical or electronic components that are sold within the European Union. Our products meet the requirements of the RoHS directive and we are making every effort in order to maintain compliance, without otherwise adversely affecting the quality and functionalities of our products.
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We, like other manufacturers, are dependent on our suppliers for certain components and sub-system modules to comply with these requirements, and we may be required to pay higher prices for components that comply with this directive. In addition, compliance with the RoHS directive may require us to undertake significant expenses with respect to the re-design of our products. We may not be able to pass these higher component costs or redesign costs on to our customers. We cannot be sure that we will be able to comply with these regulations on a cost effective basis or that a sufficient supply of compliant components will be available to us. Our inability or failure to comply with these regulations, including by reason of failure by our suppliers to comply with the directive, may restrict us for a period of time from conducting certain business in the European Union and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
A further directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, or “WEEE,” approvedpublished by the European Union in 2003, promotes waste recovery with a view to reducing the quantity of waste for disposal and saving natural resources, in particular by reuse, recycling and recovery of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The WEEE directive covers all10 categories of electrical and electronic equipment regardless if used by consumers and electronic equipment intended foror by professional use.users. The directive, which partly came into effect in August 2005, requires that all new electrical and electronic equipment put on the Community market be appropriately labeled regarding waste disposal and contains other obligations regarding the collection and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. Our products fall within the scope of the WEEE directive, and we have set up the operational and financial infrastructure required for collection and recycling of WEEE, as stipulated in the WEEE directive, including product labeling, registration and the joining of compliance schemes. We are taking and will continue to take all requisite steps to ensure compliance with this directive. If we fail to maintain compliance, we may be restricted from conducting certain business in the European Union, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
The countries of the European Union, as a single market for our products, accounted in 20062007 for approximately 20%22% of our revenues. If our products fail to comply with WEEE or RoHS directives or any other directive issued from time to time by the European Union, we could be subject to penalties and other sanctions that could have a material adverse affect on our results of operations and financial condition.
If we lose a major customer or support contract, our results of operations may suffer.
We derive a significant portion of our revenues from services, which include maintenance, project management, support and training. As a result, if we lose a major customer or if a support contract is delayed or cancelled, our revenues would be adversely affected. In addition, customers who have accounted for significant service revenues in the past may not generate revenues in future periods. Our failure to obtain new customers or additional orders from existing customers could also materially affect our results of operations.
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Risks associated with our distribution channels and key strategic partners may materially adversely affect our financial results.
We have agreements in place with many distributors, dealers and resellers to market and sell our products and services in addition to our direct sales force. We derive a significant percentage of our revenues from one of our distributor channels and new channels may, in the future, account for a significant percentage of our revenues. Our topAvaya, our largest global distribution channel, accounted for approximately 19%21%, 21%16% and 16%13% of our revenues in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2006,2007, respectively. Our financial results could be materially adversely affected if our contracts with distribution channels or our other partners were terminated, if our relationship with our distribution channels or our other partners were to deteriorate or if the financial condition of our distribution channels or our other partners were to weaken. Additionally, our competitors’ ability to penetrate our strategic relationships, particularly our relationship with Avaya, our largest global distribution channel and one of the leading global providers of enterprise business communication platforms in voice, e-business and data, may result in a significant reduction of sales through that channel. Moreover, our current distribution channels or other partners may decide to enter into our markets in competition with us, which will likely result in the termination of our relationship and may lead to a significant reduction in sales through related channels.
As our market opportunities change, our reliance on particular distribution channels or other partners may increase, which may negatively impact gross margins. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in maintaining or expanding these channels. If we are not successful, we may lose sales opportunities, customers and market share. In addition, some of our distribution channels or our other partners are suppliers of telecommunication infrastructure equipment. Some of our distribution channels or our other partners have developed and marketed IP-based products, software applications and storage products and services in competition with us and there can be no assurance that our distribution channels or our other partners will not further develop or market such products and services in the future.
Our uneven sales patterns could significantly impact our quarterly revenues and earnings.
The sales cycle for our products and services is variable, typically ranging between a few weeks to several months from initial contact with the potential client to the signing of a contract. Frequently, sales orders accumulate towards the latter part of a given quarter. Looking forward, given the lead-time required by our contract manufacturer, if a large portion of sales orders are received late in the quarter, we may not be able to deliver products within the quarter and thus such sales will be deferred to a future quarter. There can be no assurance that such deferrals will result in sales in the near term, or at all. Thus, delays in executing client orders may affect our revenue and cause our operating results to vary widely. Additionally, as a high percentage of our expenses, particularly employee compensation, is relatively fixed, a variation in the level of sales, especially at or near the end of any quarter, may have a material adverse impact on our quarterly operating results.
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It is also difficult to predict the exact mix of products for any period between hardware, software and services as well as within the product category between audio platforms and related applications and digital video. As each of our product types and services have different gross margins, changes in the mix of products sold in a period will have an impact, and perhaps a material impact, on our gross profit and net income in that period.
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We might recognize a loss with respect to our investments in financial instruments.
We invest most of our cash in a variety of financial instruments. If the obligor of any of the instruments we hold defaults or undergoes a reorganization in bankruptcy, we may lose a portion of such investment and our financial income may decrease. In addition, to the extent there is a general downturn in the credit markets, which could adversely affect the liquidity of our investments, or if the credit rating of our investments is downgraded, we might recognize some loss. For information on the types of our investments, see Item 11, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in this annual report.
If we lose our key personnel or cannot recruit additional personnel, our business may suffer.
If our growth continues, we will be required to hire and integrate new employees. Recruiting and retaining qualified engineers and computer programmers to perform research and development and to commercialize our products, as well as qualified personnel to market and sell those products, are critical to our success. As of December 31, 2006,2007, approximately 25% of our employees were devoted to research and product development and approximately 26%20% were devoted to marketing and sales. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully recruit and integrate new employees. There is often intense competition to recruit highly skilled employees in the technology industry. We may also experience personnel changes as a result of our move from multimedia recording equipment towards business performance solutions. An inability to attract and retain highly qualified employees may have an adverse effect on our ability to develop new products and enhancements for existing products and to successfully market such products, all of which would likely have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial position. Our success also depends, to a significant extent, upon the continued service of a number of key management, sales, marketing and development employees, the loss of any of whom could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Operating internationally exposes us to additional and unpredictable risks.
We sell our products and solutions throughout the world and intend to continue to increase our penetration of international markets. In 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2006,2007, approximately 99% of our total sales were derived from sales to customers outside of Israel, and approximately 50%53%, 44%, 53%54% and 54%52%, respectively, of our total sales were made to customers in North America. A number of risks are inherent in international transactions. Our future results could be materially adversely affected by a variety of factors including changes in exchange rates, general economic conditions, regulatory requirements, tax structures or changes in tax laws, and longer payment cycles in the countries in our geographic areas of operations. International sales and operations may be limited or disrupted by the imposition of governmental controls and regulations, export license requirements, political instability, trade restrictions, changes in tariffs and difficulties in managing international operations. We cannot assure you that one or more of these factors will not have a material adverse effect on our international operations and, consequently, on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Inadequate intellectual property protections could prevent us from enforcing or defending our intellectual property and we may be subject to liability in the event our products infringe on the proprietary rights of third parties and we are not successful in defending such claims.
Our success is dependent, to a significant extent, upon our proprietary technology. We currently hold 4446 U.S. patents and 2464 patents issued in additional countries covering substantially the same technology as the U.S. patents. We have over 164155 patent applications pending in the United States and other countries. We rely on a combination of patent, trade secret, copyright and trademark law, together with non-disclosure and non-competition agreements, as well as third party licenses to establish and protect the technology used in our systems. However, we cannot assure you that such measures will be adequate to protect our proprietary technology, that competitors will not develop products with features based upon, or otherwise similar to our systems, or that third party licenses will be available to us or that we will prevail in any proceeding instituted by us in order to enjoin competitors from selling similar products. Although we believe that our products do not infringe upon the proprietary rights of third parties, we cannot assure you that one or more third parties will not make a contrary claim or that we will be successful in defending such claim.
We generally distribute our software products under software license agreements that restrict the use of our products by terms and conditions prohibiting unauthorized reproduction or transfer of the software products. However, effective copyrights and other intellectual property rights protection may be inadequate or unavailable to us in every country in which our software products are available, and the laws of some foreign countries may not be as protective of intellectual property rights as those in Israel and the United States.
From time to time, we receive “cease and desist” letters alleging patent infringements. No formal claims or other actions have been filed with respect to such alleged infringements, except for claims filed by Dictaphone (which have since been settled and dismissed) and Verint America Inc. (formerly Witness Systems, Inc. (described under) (see Item 8, “Financial Information–Legal Proceedings” in this annual report). We believe that none of these allegations has merit. We cannot assure you, however, that we will be successful in defending against the claims that have been asserted or any other claims that may be asserted. We also cannot assure you that such claims will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or operations. Defending infringement claims or other claims could involve substantial costs and diversion of management resources.
In addition, to the extent we are not successful in defending such claims, we may be subject to injunctions with respect to the use or sale of certain of our products or to liabilities for damages and may be required to obtain licenses which may not be available on reasonable terms, any of which may have a material adverse impact on our business or financial condition.
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We use certain “open source” software tools that may be subject to intellectual property infringement claims, the assertion of which could impair our product development plans, interfere with our ability to support our clients or require us to pay licensing fees.
Certain of our software products contain a limited amount of open source code and we may use more open source code in the future. Open source code is code that is covered by a license agreement that permits the user to liberally use, copy, modify and distribute the software without cost, provided that users and modifiers abide by certain licensing requirements. The original developers of the open source code provide no warranties on such code.
As a result of our use of open source software, we could be subject to suits by parties claiming ownership of what we believe to be open source code and we may incur expenses in defending claims that we did not abide by the open source code license. If we are not successful in defending against such claims, we may be subject to monetary damages or be required to remove the open source code from our products. Such events could disrupt our operations and the sales of our products, which would negatively impact our revenues and cash flow.
In addition, under certain conditions, the use of open source code to create derivative code may obligate us to make the resulting derivative code available to others at no cost. The circumstances under which our use of open source code would compel us to offer derivative code at no cost are subject to varying interpretations. If we are required to publicly disclose the source code for such derivative products or to license our derivative products that use an open source license, our previously proprietary software products may be available to others without charge. If this happens, our customers and our competitors may have access to our products without cost to them, which could harm our business.
We monitor our use of such open source code to avoid subjecting our products to conditions we do not intend. The use of such open source code, however, may ultimately subject some of our products to unintended conditions so that we are required to take remedial action that may divert resources away from our development efforts.
Undetected problems in our products could directly impair our financial results and we could face potential product liability claims against us.
OurIf flaws in the design, production, assembly or testing of our products focus specificallyand solutions (by us or our suppliers) were to occur, we could experience a rate of failure in our products or solutions that would result in substantial repair, replacement or service costs and potential liability and damage to our reputation. There can be no assurance that our efforts to monitor, develop, modify and implement appropriate test and manufacturing processes for our products or solutions will be sufficient to permit us to avoid a rate of failure in our products or solutions that results in substantial delays in shipment, significant repair or replacement costs or potential damage to our reputation, any of which could have a material adverse effect on organizations’ business-critical operations.our business, results of operations and financial condition.
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We may be subject to claims that our products are defective or that some function or malfunction of our products caused or contributed to property, bodily or consequential damages. We attempt to minimize this risk by incorporating provisions into our distribution and standard sales agreements that are designed to limit our exposure to potential claims of liability. No assurance can be given that all claims will be barred by the contractual provisions limiting liability or that the provisions will be enforceable. We carry product liability insurance in the amount of $25,000,000 per occurrence and $25,000,000 overall per annum. No assurance can be given that the amount of any individual claim or all claims will be covered by the insurance or that the amount of any individual claim or all claims in the aggregate will not exceed insurance policy coverage limits. A significant liability claim against us could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial position.
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If our advanced compliance recording solutions fail to record our customers’ interactions, we may be subject to liability and our reputation may be harmed.
Many of our customers use our solutions to record and to store recordings of commercial interactions. These recordings are used to provide back-up and verification of transactions and to guard against risks posed by lost or misinterpreted voice communications. These customers rely on our solutions to record, store and retrieve voice data in a timely, reliable and efficient manner. If our solutions fail to record our customers’ interactions or our customers are unable to retrieve stored recordings when necessary, we may be subject to liability and our reputation may be harmed. Although we attempt to limit any potential exposure through quality assurance programs, insurance and contractual terms, we cannot assure you that we will eliminate or successfully limit our liability for any failure of our recording and storage solutions.
We sell our products to, among other customers, governments and governmental entities. These sales are subject to special risks, such as delays in funding, termination of contracts or sub-contracts at the convenience of the government, termination, reduction or modification of contracts or sub-contracts in the event of changes in the government’s policies or as a result of budgetary constraints, and increased or unexpected costs resulting in losses or reduced profits under fixed price contracts. Such occurrences have happened in the past and we cannot assure you that we will not experience problems in the future in our performance of such government contracts.
We face risks relating to large projects in the security market.
Some of the customer projects for which we offer our security products, solutions and related services are growing in size. The larger and more complex such projects are, the greater the risks associated with such projects. These risks may include our exposure to penalties and liabilities resulting from a breach of contract, our ability to fully integrate our products with third party products and complex environments, and our dependency upon subcontractors for the successful and timely completion of such projects. Also, we may be held liable for the failure of our subcontractors, from whom we may have no recourse. In addition, there may be more fluctuations in cash collection and revenue recognition with respect to such projects.
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The markets in which we operate are highly competitive and we may be unable to compete successfully.
The market for our products, solutions and related services, in general, is highly competitive. Additionally, some of our principal competitors, such as Witness Systems, Inc. and Verint Systems, Inc. (who announced a proposed business combination in February 2007), may have significantly greater resources and larger customer bases than do we.we do. We have seen evidence of deep price reductions by some of our competitors and expect to continue to see such behavior in the future, which, if we are required to match such discounting, will adversely affect our gross margins and results of operations. To date, we have been able to manage our product design and component costs. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to achieve reductions in component and product design costs. Further, the relative and varying rates of increases or decreases in product price and cost could have a material adverse impact on our earnings.
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We are expanding the scope of our Voice Platforms and Applications to Enterprise Performance Management solutions, with a focus on analytic software solutions that are based on voice and data content analysis.analysis, including data based on transactions. The market for such content analysis applications is still in its early phases. Successful positioning of our products is a critical factor in our ability to maintain growth. Furthermore, new potential entrants from the traditional enterprise business intelligence and business analytics sector may decide to develop recording and content analysis capabilities and compete with us in this emerging opportunity. As a result, we expect to continue to make significant expenditures on marketing. We cannot ensure that the market awareness or demand for our new products will grow as rapidly as we expect, or if at all, that we will successfully develop new products or introduce new applications for existing products, that such new products and applications will achieve market acceptance or that the introduction of new products or technological developments by others will not adversely impact the demand for our products.
The operational risk management market has emerged only in recent years and is highly competitive and fragmented. Our software solutions in this field compete with software developed internally by potential clients as well as software and other solutions offered by competitors.
With respect to the market for digital video products and applications (or Video Platforms and Applications), our Video Platforms and Applications are utilized by entities in the closed circuit television, or CCTV, security, gaming and retail industries to capture, store and analyze digital video and related data. The market for our Video Platforms and Applications is highly competitive and includes products offering a broad range of features and capacities. We compete with a number of large, established manufacturers of video recording systems and distributors of similar products, as well as new emerging competitors. The price per channel of digital recording systems has decreased throughout the market in recent years, primarily due to competitive pressures. We cannot assure you that the price per channel of digital recording systems will not continue to decrease or that our gross profit will not decrease as a result. Moreover, our penetration into this market may not experience the same growth rate as the entire company’s growth rate, which might have a material adverse effect on our earnings.
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With respect to the public safety part of our business, our ability to succeed depends on our ability to develop an effective network of distributors to the mid-low segment of the public safety market, while facing pricing pressures and low barriers to entry. We face significant competition from other well-established competitors, including CVDS Inc., VoicePrint Inc. and others. Prices have decreased throughout the market in recent years, primarily due to competitive pressures. We cannot assure you that prices will not continue to decrease or that our gross profit will not decrease as a result. We believe that our ability to sell and distribute our Voice Platforms and Applications in the public safety market depends on the success of our marketing, distribution and product development initiatives. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in these initiatives.
The Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (or VoIP) contact center and trading market is highly competitive and we may be unable to compete successfully. The recent expansion of Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (or VoIP)VoIP into contact centers and trading floors may allow one or more of our competitors to take a leadership position with respect to this new technology. Strategic partners may change their vendor preference as a result or may develop embedded VoIP recording as part of the VoIP switch or networking infrastructure. Successful marketing of our products and services to our customers and partners will be critical to our ability to maintain growth. We cannot assure you that our products or existing partnerships will permit us to compete successfully.
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AdverseUnfavorable economic and market conditions in theand reduced information technology sectorspending may lead to a decreased demand for our voice platformsproducts and applicationsservices and may harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are subject to the effects of general global, economic and market conditions. OurRecent events in the financial market may have an impact on our enterprise business. Although to date we have not experienced any slowdown in this business, we cannot guarantee that there will be no implications going forward. To the extent that our business suffers as a result of such unfavorable economic and market conditions, our operating results may be materially adversely affected as a result of unfavorable economic conditions and reduced information technology spending, particularly in the product segments in which we compete.affected. In particular, many enterprises, telecommunications carriers and service providers may reduce spending in connection with contact centers, and many financial institutions may reduce spending related to trading floors.floors and operational risk management. Budgets for IT-related capital expenditures at financial services and other institutions are typically cyclical in nature, with generally higher budgets in times of improving economic conditions and lower budgets in times of economic slowdowns. In addition, even at times when budgets for technology-related capital expenditures are relatively high, our clients may, due to imminent regulatory or operational deadlines or objectives or for other reasons, prioritize other expenditures over the operational risk management solutions that we offer.
Customer purchase decisions may be significantly affected by a variety of factors, including trends in spending for information technology and enterprise software, market competition, capital expenditure prioritization, budgeting and the viability or announcement of alternative technologies. Furthermore, even when information technology is a priority, prospective customers that made significant investments in internally developed solutions or in point solutions would incur significant costs in switching to third-party enterprise-wide products such as ours. If these industry-wide conditions exist, they may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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The NiceLog system, our digital voiceOur recording system, issolutions are based on a computer telephony integrated multi-channel voice recording and retrieval system. We are dependent on the success of the NiceLog system and related productsour recording solutions to maintain profitability. In 2004, 2005Our recording solutions currently generate, and 2006, approximately 78%, 78% and 63%, respectively,in recent years have generated, more than half of our revenues, were generated from sales of NiceLog systems and related products and we anticipate that such productsour recording solutions will continue to account for a significant portion of our sales in the next several years. A significant decline in sales of NiceLog systems and related products,our recording solutions, or a significant decrease in the profit margin on such products,solutions, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We may be unable to develop strategic alliances and marketing partnerships for the global distribution of our video platforms and applications, which may limit our ability to successfully market and sell these products.
We believe that developing marketing partnerships and strategic alliances is an important factor in our success in marketing our video platforms and applications and in penetrating new markets for such products. However, unlike our voice platforms and applications, we have only recently started to develop a number of strategic alliances for the marketing and distribution of our video platforms and applications. We cannot assure you that we will be able to develop such partnerships or strategic alliances on terms that are favorable to us, if at all. Failure to develop such arrangements that are satisfactory to us may limit our ability to successfully market and sell our video platforms and applications and may have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.
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We may be unable to commercialize new video content analysis applications.
We are currently in the process of developing and commercializing new video content analysis applications that will enable real-time detection of security threats. The market for such video content analysis applications is still in an early phase. In addition, because this is a new opportunity for changing security procedures and represents a transition to proactive security management, we are not able to predict the pace at which security organizations will adopt this technology, if at all. Successful positioning of our products is a critical factor in our ability to maintain growth. New potential entrants to the market may decide to develop video content analysis capabilities and compete with us in this emerging opportunity. As a result, we expect to continue to make significant expenditures on marketing. We cannot assure you that a market for these products will develop as rapidly as we expect or at all, that we will successfully develop new products or introduce new applications for existing products, that new products or applications will meet market expectations and needs, that we will be successful in penetrating these markets and in marketing our products or that the introduction of new products or technological developments by others will not adversely impact the demand for our video content analysis applications.
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If the pace of spending by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is slower than anticipated, our security business will likely be adversely affected, perhaps materially.
The market for our security solutions in CCTV continuous recording, public safety and law enforcement is highly dependent on the spending cycle and spending scope of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as well as local, state and municipal governments and security organizations in international markets. We cannot be sure that the spending cycle will materialize as we expect and that we will be positioned to benefit from the potential opportunities.
If we are unable to maintain the security of our systems, our business, financial condition and operating results could be harmed.
The occurrence, or perception of occurrence, of security breaches in the operation of our business or by third parties using our products could harm our business, financial condition and operating results. Some of our customers use our products to compile and analyze highly sensitive or confidential information. We may come into contact with such information or data when we perform service or maintenance functions for our customers. While we have internal policies and procedures for employees in connection with performing these functions, the perception or fact that any of our employees has improperly handled sensitive information of a customer or a customer’s customer could negatively impact our business. If, in handling this information we fail to comply with our privacy policies or privacy and security laws, we could incur civil liability to government agencies, customers and individuals whose privacy was compromised. If personal information is received or used from sources outside the U.S., we could be subject to civil, administrative or criminal liability under the laws of other countries. In addition, third parties may attempt to breach our security or inappropriately use our products through computer viruses, electronic break-ins and other disruptions. If successful, confidential information, including passwords, financial information, or other personal information may be improperly obtained and we may be subject to lawsuits and other liability. Any internal or external security breaches could harm our reputation and even the perception of security risks, whether or not valid, could inhibit market acceptance of our products.
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Our business could be materially adversely affected by changes in the legal and regulatory environment.
Our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected if laws, regulations or standards relating to our products or us are newly implemented or changed. In addition, our revenues would be harmed if we fail to adapt our products to changes in regulations applicable to the business of certain of our clients, such as securities trading, broker sales compliance and anti-money laundering laws and regulations.
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If we fail to maintain effective internal controls in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and stockshare price.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 imposes certain duties on us. Our efforts to comply with the requirements of Section 404, which applyfirst applied to our financial statements for 2006, have resulted in increased general and administrative expenses and a devotion of management time and attention to compliance activities, and we expect these efforts to require the continued commitment of significant resources. If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal control over financial reporting. In addition, we may identify material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting. Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in investigation and/or sanctions by regulatory authorities, and could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results, investor confidence in our reported financial information, and the market price of our common stock.ordinary shares and ADSs.
Our quarterly results are likely to fluctuate, which could cause us to miss market expectations and as a result may impact the trading price of our ordinary shares.
The trading price of our ordinary shares has experienced significant volatility in the past and may continue to do so in the future. Unfavorable changes, many of which are outside of our control, could have a material adverse affect on our business, operating results, and financial condition.
Historically, our revenues have reflected seasonal fluctuations related to slower spending activities in the first quarter, and the increased activity related to the year-end purchasing cycles of many users of our products. We believe that we will continue to encounter quarter-to-quarter seasonality.
We operate with certain backlog and we face factors such as timing and volume of orders within a given period that affect our ability to fulfill these orders and to determine the amount of our revenues within the period.
We derive our sales primarily through indirect channels, making it more difficult for us to predict revenues because we depend partially on estimates of future sales provided by third parties. In addition, changes in our arrangements with our network of channel partners or in the products they offer, such as our recent introduction of new support programs for our customers, which combines support from our channel partners with back-end support from us, could affect the timing and volume of orders. Furthermore, our expense levels are based, in part, on our expectations as to future revenues. If our revenue levels are below expectations, our operating results are likely to be adversely affected, since most of our expenses are not variable in the short term.
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Due to the factors described above, it is possible that in a particular future quarter, our operating results may be below the expectations of public market analysts and investors. In this event, the price of our ordinary shares would likely decline.
Additional tax liabilities could materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
As a global corporation, we are subject to income and other taxes both in Israel and various foreign jurisdictions. Our domestic and international tax liabilities are subject to the allocation of revenues and expenses in different jurisdictions and the timing of recognizing revenues and expenses. Additionally, the amount of income taxes paid is subject to our interpretation of applicable laws in the jurisdictions in which we file.do business. From time to time, we are subject to income and other tax audits. While we believe we comply with applicable income tax laws, there can be no assurance that a governing tax authority will not have a different interpretation of the law and assess us with additional taxes. Should we be assessed additional taxes, there could be a material adverse affect on our results of operations and financial condition.
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Risks relating to Israel
Our business may be impacted by inflationdevaluation of the U.S. dollar against the NIS and NIS exchange rate fluctuations.inflation.
Exchange rate fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the NIS may negatively affect our earnings. A substantial majority of our revenues and a substantial portion of our expenses are denominated in U.S. dollars. However, a significant portion of the expenses associated with our Israeli operations, including personnel and facilities related expenses, are incurred in NIS. Consequently, inflation in Israel will have the effect of increasing the dollar cost of our operations in Israel, unless it is offset on a timely basis by a devaluation of the NIS relative to the U.S. dollar. In addition, if the value of the U.S. dollar decreases against the NIS, our earnings may be negatively impacted. In 2006,the past two years, the U.S. dollar has depreciated against the NIS. In 2007, the U.S. dollar depreciated against the NIS by 8.2% while8.53% and inflation decreasedincreased by only 0.1%, and from3.4%. From January 1, 20072008, to May 31, 2007,March 26, 2008, the U.S. dollar depreciated against the NIS by an additional 4.5%9.25%. We cannot predict any future trends in the rate of inflation in Israel or the rate of devaluation or appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the NIS or of the NIS against the U.S. dollar or of the U.S. dollar against the NIS.dollar. If the U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Israel increases and if the current trend of depreciation of the U.S. dollar against the NIS continues, our dollar-measured results of operations will be adversely affected. In addition, exchange rate fluctuations in currency exchange rates in countries other than Israel where we operate and do business may also negatively affect our earnings.
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We are subject to the political, economic and military conditions in Israel.
Our headquarters, research and development and main manufacturing facilities, as well as the facilities of Flextronics Israel Ltd., our key manufacturer, are located in the State of Israel, and we are directly affected by the political, economic and military conditions to which Israel is subject. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, a number of armed conflicts have taken place between Israel and its Arab neighbors. A state of hostility, varying in degree and intensity, has led to security and economic problems for Israel. Since October 2000, there has been a high level of violence between Israel and the Palestinians, and in January 2006,Palestinians. Hamas, an Islamist movement responsible for many attacks, including missile strikes, against Israelis, won the majority of the seats in the Parliament of the Palestinian Authority. This development hasAuthority in January 2006 and took control of the entire Gaza Strip by force in June 2007. These developments have further strained relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Further, in the summer of 2006, Israel engaged in a war with Hezbollah, a Lebanese Islamist Shiite militia group, which involved thousands of missile strikes and disrupted most day-to-day civilian activity in northern Israel. Acts of terrorism, armed conflicts or political instability in the region could negatively affect local business conditions and harm our results of operations. We cannot predict the effect on the region of any diplomatic initiatives or political developments involving Israel or the Palestinians or other countries in the Middle East. Furthermore, several countries restrict doing business with Israel and Israeli companies, and additional companies may restrict doing business with Israel and Israeli companies as a result of an increase in hostilities. Our products are heavily dependent upon components imported from, and most of our sales are made to, countries outside of Israel. Accordingly, our operations could be materially adversely affected if trade between Israel and its present trading partners were interrupted or curtailed.
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Some of our officers and employees are currently obligated to perform annual military reserve duty and some were called to duty during the summer of 2006. Additionally, in the event of a military conflict, including the ongoing conflict with the Palestinians, these persons could be required to serve in the military for extended periods of time. We cannot assess the full impact of these requirements on our workforce or business and we cannot predict the effect on us of any expansion or reduction of these obligations.
Service and enforcement of legal process on us and our directors and officers may be difficult to obtain.
Service of process upon our directors and officers, most of whom reside outside the United States, may be difficult to obtain within the United States. Furthermore, since the majority of our assets and most of our directors and officers are located outside the United States, any judgment obtained in the United States against us or these individuals or entities may not be collectible within the United States. Additionally, it may be difficult to enforce civil liabilities under U.S. federal securities law in original actions instituted in Israel. Israeli courts may refuse to hear a claim based on a violation of U.S. securities laws because Israel is not the most appropriate forum to bring such a claim. In addition, even if an Israeli court agrees to hear a claim, it may determine that Israeli law and not U.S. law is applicable to the claim. If U.S. law is found to be applicable, the content of applicable U.S. law must be proved as a fact, which can be a time-consuming and costly process. Certain matters of procedure will also be governed by Israeli law. There is little binding case law in Israel addressing these matters.
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We depend onOur results may be affected by the availability of government grants and tax benefits. Our participation in these programs restricts our ability to freely transfer manufacturing rights and technology out of Israel.
We derive and expect to continue to derive significant benefits from various programs including Israeli tax benefits relating to our “Approved and Privileged Enterprise” programs and certain grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor, or OCS, for research and development. To be eligible for these grants, programs and tax benefits, we must continue to meet certain conditions, including making certain specified investments in fixed assets and conducting the research, development and manufacturing of products developed with such OCS grants in Israel (unless a special approval has been granted for performing manufacturing activities outside Israel). From time to time, the Israeli Government has discussed reducing or eliminating the availability of these grants, programs and benefits and there can be no assurance that the Israeli Government’s support of grants, programs and benefits will continue. If grants, programs and benefits available to us or the laws, rules and regulations under which they were granted are eliminated or their scope is further reduced, or if we fail to meet the conditions of existing grants, programs or benefits and are required to refund grants or tax benefits already received (together with interest and certain inflation adjustments) or fail to meet the criteria for future “Approved or Privileged Enterprises,” our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected including an increase in our provision for income taxes.
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On April 1, 2005, an amendment to the Israeli law which deals with Approved Enterprises came into force. Pursuant to the amendment, a company’s facility will be granted the status of “Approved Enterprise” only if it is proven to be an industrial facility (as defined in such law) that contributes to the economic independence of the Israeli economy and is a competitive facility that contributes to the Israeli gross domestic product. The amendment incorporates certain changes to both the criteria and procedure for obtaining “Approved Enterprise” status for an investment program, and changes to the tax benefits afforded in certain circumstances to “Approved Enterprises” under such law (which is referred to as a Privileged Enterprise following such amendment). The amendment applies to Approved Enterprise programs in which the year of commencement of benefits under the law is 2004 or later, unless such programs received approval from the applicable government authority prior to December 31, 2004, in which case the provisions of the amendment will not apply. We have one Privileged Enterprise program, which is covered by the amendment. WhilstWhile we believe that we meet the statutory conditions as set out in the amendment, there can be no assurance that the tax authorityauthorities in Israel will concur. Should this Privileged Enterprise program not be considered to meet the statutory conditions, our provision for income taxes will increase materially.
As a result of the amendment, tax-exempt income generated under the provisions of the amended law, will subject us to taxes upon dividend distribution or complete liquidation.
We do not intend to distribute any amounts of itsour undistributed tax exempt income as dividends as we intend to reinvest our tax-exempt income. Accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided on income attributable to our Approved or Privileged Enterprise programs as the undistributed tax exempt income is essentially permanent in duration.
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Under Israeli law, products incorporating know-how developed with grants from the OCS are required to be manufactured in Israel, unless prior approval of a governmental committee is obtained. As a condition to obtaining this approval, we may be required to pay to the OCS up to 300% of the grants we received and to repay these grants on an accelerated basis, depending on the portion of manufacturing performed outside Israel. In addition, we are prohibited from transferring to third parties the technology developed with these grants without the prior approval of a governmental committee and, possibly, the payment of a fee. See Item 4, “Information on the Company–Research and Development” in this annual report, for additional information about these programs of the OCS.OCS programs.
Provisions of Israeli law may delay, prevent or impede an acquisition of us, which could prevent a change of control.
Israeli corporate law regulates mergers and tender offers, requires tender offers for acquisitions of shares above specified thresholds and regulates other matters that may be relevant to these types of transactions. Furthermore, Israeli tax considerations may make potential transactions unappealing to us or to some of our shareholders. These provisions could delay, prevent or impede an acquisition of us. See Item 10, “Additional Information–Mergers and Acquisitions” in this annual report, for additional discussion about some anti-takeover effects of Israeli law.
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Risks related to our Ordinary Shares and ADSs
Numerous factors, some of which are beyond our control, may cause the market price of our ordinary shares or our ADSs, each of which represents one ordinary share, to fluctuate significantly. These factors include, among other things, announcements of technological innovations, development of or disputes concerning our intellectual property rights, customer orders or new products by us or our competitors, currency exchange rate fluctuations, earnings releases by us or our competitors, market conditions in the industry and the general state of the securities markets, with particular emphasis on the technology and Israeli sectors of the securities markets.
Our operating results in one or more future periods may fluctuate significantly and may cause our share price to be volatile.
The sales cycle for our products and services is variable, typically ranging between a few weeks to several months, and in some extreme cases it may take even longer, from initial contact with the potential client to the signing of a contract. Frequently, sales orders accumulate towards the latter part of a given quarter. Looking forward, given the lead time required by our contract manufacturer, if a large portion of sales orders are received late in the quarter, we may not be able to deliver products within the quarter and thus such sales will be deferred to a future quarter. There can be no assurance that such deferrals will result in sales in the near term, or at all. Thus, delays in executing client orders may affect our revenue and cause our operating results to vary widely. Additionally, as a high percentage of our expenses, particularly employee compensation, is relatively fixed, a variation in the level of sales, especially at or near the end of any quarter, may have a material adverse impact on our quarterly operating results.
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In addition, our quarterly operating results may be subject to significant fluctuations due to other factors, including the timing and size of orders and shipments to customers, variations in distribution channels, mix of products, new product introductions, competitive pressures and general economic conditions. It is difficult to predict the exact mix of products for any period between hardware, software and services as well as within the product category between audio platforms and related applications, digital video and communications intelligence. Because a significant portion of our overhead consists of fixed costs, our quarterly results may be adversely impacted if sales fall below management’s expectations. In addition, the period of time from order to delivery of our audio and video platforms and applications is short, and therefore our backlog for such products is currently, and is expected to continue to be, small and substantially unrelated to the level of sales in subsequent periods. As a result, our results of operations for any quarter may not necessarily be indicative of results for any future period. Due to all of the foregoing factors, in some future quarters our sales or operating results may be below our forecasts and the expectations of public market analysts or investors. In such event, the market price of our ordinary shares and ADSs may be materially adversely affected.
21Future sales of our ADSs may impact the market price of our ADSs.
If we or our shareholders sell substantial amounts of our ADSs in the public market, the market price of our ADSs could decline. These sales also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem appropriate. Following an acquisition, shares of our ADSs held by new holders may become freely tradable.
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Item 4. | Information on the Company. |
Our legal and commercial name is NICE-Systems Ltd. We are a company limited by shares organized under the laws of the State of Israel. We were originally incorporated as NICE Neptun Intelligent Computer Engineering Ltd. on September 28, 1986 and were renamed NICE-Systems Ltd. on October 14, 1991. Our principal executive offices are located at 8 Hapnina Street, P.O. Box 690, Ra’anana 43107, Israel and the telephone number at that location is +972-9-775-3030. Our agent for service in the United States is our subsidiary, NICE Systems Inc., 301 Route 17 North, 10th Floor, Rutherford, New Jersey 07070.
For a summary of our recent acquisitions and dispositions, please see Item 5, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects–Recent Acquisitions and Dispositions” in this annual report.
We are a leading provider of solutions that capture, manage and analyze unstructured multimedia content and transactional data enabling companies and public organizations to comply with internal and governmental regulations, enhance business and operational performance, address security threats and behave proactively. Unstructured multimedia content includes phone calls to contact centers, trading floors, branches, home agents and back offices, and branches, video captured by closed circuit television cameras, radio communications between emergency services personnel, internet sessions, email and instant messaging.messaging and converged multimedia solutions for command and control centers. Our solutions include integrated, scalable, multimedia recording platforms, software applications and related professional services. These solutions address critical business processes and risk management, compliance procedures and security needs of companies and public organizations. Our solutions facilitate faster decision-making and near real-time action, improving business and employee performance, reducing exposure to operational risk such as fraud and compliance, and enhancing security and public safety. Our customers use our systems in a variety of enterprises, such as financial services, telecommunications, health care, outsourcers, retail, service providers telecommunications and utilities. Our security solutions are primarily focused on homeland security and first responder organizations, transportation organizations, government-related organizations and the public and private sector.sectors. Our solutions are deployed at over 24,000 customers, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies.
For a breakdown of total revenues by products and services for each of the last three years, please see Item 5, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects–Results of Operations.”
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Industry Background and Trends
Increased focus on business productivity, operational performance and profitability. Companies are increasingly focused on improving productivity and increasing profitability by creating better-quality customer experiences and through achieving higher efficiencies across the enterprise. These objectives require organizations to better manage their customer, partner and employee relationships, analyze critical customer data, maximize the value of customer interactions and execute customer-focused business processes. Considering the high cost of acquiring additionalnew customers and the maturation of many industries, it is increasingly important to acquire new customers and to maximize revenue from the retention and continued satisfaction of current customers. Similarly, due to the high cost of hiring and training new employees, it is important for organizations to address employee concerns in a timely fashion to maximize employee retention and productivity. These challenges have been heightened by the broad adoption of Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) leading to an increased number of points of contact between companies and their customers, as well as the broad deployment of contact center solutions to remote locations.
The contact center has emerged as the primary point of an enterprise’s interaction with its customers, rendering it essential to improving customer satisfaction and driving revenue. The importance of the contact center, combined with the complexity of the requirements for its effective management, have led to a need for an ever broadening set of management tools. Companies are seeking more advanced and more integrated solutions to enable quality monitoring, workforce management, and performance management, analysis, feedback and coaching, to better utilize their resources.
Companies have historically invested in business intelligence solutions and operational systems which rely on structured transactional data contained in Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and other related application databases in order to better utilize business intelligence.databases. Traditional business intelligence solutions unlock value contained in these structured data by describing what has happened in any given transaction, and then, by examining patterns incollecting historical data, attempting to extract from it patterns which may predict future customer behavior. Recently, however, companies have recognized the value contained in other types of data, including the vast amounts of unstructured multimedia content that is generated by ongoing interactions with their customers, employees or partners. Furthermore, many operational decisions can be greatly enhanced by providing near real-time insight into both transactions and interactions. By employing software-based analytics on unstructured multimedia content, in combination with data from transactions, companies are able to detect customer intent, often through interactions in which a customer may express concerns or desires or provide other signals of their intentions. Equipped with such an “early detection” system, companies can take proactive measures to reduce customer churn, focus their marketing efforts, stop fraud, and address employee dissatisfaction. By better understanding unstructured data, companies can develop a more comprehensive view across the enterprise, increase revenue and improve service quality, productivity and profitability.
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Heightened regulatory and compliance requirements and the high cost of dispute resolution. Regulatory pressures have increased for corporations and public organizations worldwide. Such regulation is driven by both accounting scandals (e.g., the Sarbanes-Oxley Act) and security concerns (e.g., anti-money laundering legislation). Recent events in the financial industry may increase regulation. The hiring of additional finance and accounting employees and increased civil penalties and auditor expenses have raised the financial costs of both noncompliance and ongoing compliance. In addition, it continues to be important to be able to resolve certain communication disputes, such as between counterparties in a securities trade, in an efficient and definitive manner and to reduce fraud from the same trade. Existing business intelligence and other IT solutions have addressed these growing challenges to some degree. However, companies and public organizations require improved solutions that not only provide better compliance and fraud detection but also more current, near real-time information with increased operational visibility. These solutions need to reduce the costs associated with ongoing compliance, while creating the required audit trail for regulatory purposes.
Internet Protocol adoption driving proliferation of multimedia content.VoIP is emerging as the standard for enterprise communications and is being deployed widely. The adoption of VoIP is expanding the type and volume of interactions between companies and their customers, employees and partners. This proliferation, together with businesses’ replacement of legacy communications systems and related infrastructure, has created additional growth in the need for IP-based communications solutions. To remain competitive, businesses offeruse email, Internetinternet and other multimedia, IP-based communications, such as VoIP, in addition to traditional means of communications, such as mail and analog voice calls. Additionally, VoIP has enabled enterprises to rapidly and economically deploy contact center solutions to branch offices and other remote locations, including to agents working from their homes. Due to these and other trends, the amount and types of communications within businesses have increased dramatically. As a result, many businesses are faced with the increasing challenge of better understanding the variety of unstructured multimedia content generated by these customer, employee and partner interactions. Similarly, we believe the security market is beginning to migrate to multimedia IP-based technologies in an effort to respond to security threats and challenges in a cost-effective and flexible manner.
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New securitySecurity challenges for public safety and homeland security.Terrorist attacks around the world have significantly changed the geopolitical landscape and created long-term consequences for public safety, security and intelligence agencies. In addition, transportation organizations, local authorities and government-related organizations have become increasingly aware of the benefits technology can provide in the areas of crime prevention and public safety. These organizations face new challenges in detecting, protecting against and effectively responding to threats to public safety and homeland security. As a result of these global trends, these organizations face the growing challenge of storing, managing and analyzing vast amounts of multimedia content generated by traditional and IP-based communications captured by an increasing variety of detection devices. The challenge is exacerbated by the proliferation of video data generated by both cameras deployed by the organizations as well as video streamed from citizens’ mobile phones. Emergency services and public organizations require increasingly sophisticated solutions to analyze this content in order to strengthen the measures they take for public safety and security. These solutions need to identify threats as they occur and analyze video footage to identify suspicious objects or behavior more quickly and effectively.
Increased focus on physical corporate security. Companies operating throughout the world have recognized that threats to their facilities, IT networks and personnel need to be addressed at all times. For example, many companies have determined that they need to establish measures for personnel screening and observation, invest in enhanced physical security measures and incident response capability, and deploy a variety of systems to address network-based vulnerabilities. As a result of these global trends in security needs, more companies face the growing challenge of storing and analyzing vast amounts of content, such as voice, video and other IP-based communications, captured by an increasing variety of detection devices, such as closed circuit television.
Increased urbanization raises rates of crime and risks of terror attacks. Increased urbanization in both developed and developing countries results in higher rates of various types of crime (such as robbery, theft, murder and other assaults) and greater fears of terror attacks in city centers and other metropolitan areas and systems (such as mass transit). These growing concerns are driving large-scale security projects in these areas, aiming at improving the security of the citizens. These large-scale projects include installation and implementation of wide-scale security systems, which better synchronize and correlate multimedia data sources in order toassist law enforcement officials to detect and prevent crimes and terror attacks and investigate quickly in order to apprehend the suspects.
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Our Strategy
The key elements of our strategy include the following:
Drive adoption of our next-generation convergence analytics in both the enterprise and security markets. We intend to continue to address the growing unmet need to capture, manage and analyze unstructured data in a more accurate and timely fashion in a wide variety of business and operational environments. Furthermore, we aim to drive the combination of such insight from unstructured information with near real-time data from transactional systems, known as convergence analytics, to provides enterprises and organizations with a more complete and timely view of their operations. Accordingly, we plan to continue to target these opportunities through focused sales and marketing, by developing industry specific applications that are enabled or greatly enhanced by convergence analytics, and by providing value-added services that facilitate the implementation of our solutions. Moreover, we plan to continue to invest in research and development and strategic alliances to enhance our industry-leading solutions and deliver superior insight to drive improved operational and business results. We will continue to leverage the technology, operational and partnership synergies we derive from serving both the enterprise and the security markets.
Continue to dominant the evolution of the contact center market and expand our differentiated end-to-end contact center solution. With the increasing strategic importance and complexity of the contact center, customers have a growing need for comprehensive management solutions. We believe our set of integrated and modular tools for contact center management represents a differentiated solution for our customers. We intend to augment and expand our offering of end-to-end solutions to maintain our industry leadership position.
Drive deployment of our solutions through value-added services. Our customers face diverse business and deployment challenges. We have developed a unique professional service organization that helps our customers capture the full value from our solutions. We help our customers analyze their business issues and re-engineer critical processes to address their specific needs. These value-added services should allow us to accelerate the market penetration of our advanced solutions and expand our offering to our installed base.
Expand and leverage our existing customer base, strategic alliances and global infrastructure. With over 24,000 customers in more than 135 countries, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies, we believe there are abundant opportunities to up-sell and cross-sell within our existing customer base by increasing their use of the full breadth of our product portfolio and by migrating them to our next-generation solutions. We also have strong strategic relationships with industry leaders such as Avaya Inc., Honeywell International Inc., IPC Systems, Inc., Motorola, Inc. and Orange Business Services. We intend to continue to leverage those and additional relationships to increase the value of our solutions to our end customers. We have a global infrastructure that can support, directly or through our partners, customers around the world 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We intend to utilize this infrastructure to address the growing needs of our customers.
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Heightened regulatoryContinue to pursue selective acquisitions. We have a successful acquisition history spanning nine transactions over the past six years. We intend to continue augmenting our organic growth through additional acquisitions that broaden our product and compliance requirementstechnology portfolio, expand our presence in selected vertical markets and the high costgeographic areas, broaden our customer base, and increase our distribution channels and vertical market access. We believe our acquisition strategy is aligned with our customers’ desire to procure broader, higher value solutions from a smaller group of dispute resolution. Regulatory pressures have increased for corporations and public organizations worldwide, especially in the wake of recent well-publicized accounting scandals. For example, regulations such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the pending financial guidelines of the International Financial Reporting Standards Board have heightened the complexity of corporate and governmental compliance. The hiring of additional finance and accounting employees and increased civil penalties and auditor expenses have raised the financial costs of both noncompliance and ongoing compliance. In addition, it continues to be important to be able to resolve certain communication disputes, such as between counterparties in a securities trade, in an efficient and definitive manner. Existing business intelligence and other IT solutions have addressed these growing challenges to some degree. However, companies and public organizations require improved solutions that not only provide better compliance but also more current, near real-time information with increased operational visibility. These solutions need to reduce the costs associated with ongoing compliance, while creating the required audit trail for regulatory purposes.strategic vendors.
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Our Solutions
We have developed fully integrated solutions that include software applications and hardware components that can be deployed in a modular manner. This flexibility allows our customers to incorporate additional functions and capabilities as their business or operational needs change.
The key features of our solutions include:
Ability to capture and manage vast amounts of complex, unstructured multimedia content. Our solutions record and store a wide variety of unstructured multimedia content, allowing both our enterprise and security customers to capture valuable interaction data. They are designed to optimally manage the storage and retrieval of unstructured data within centralized data storage warehouses, which maximizes the efficiency of our customers’ networked environments. Our solutions can be integrated with various enterprise software applications and storage systems. As a result, our solutions enable our customers to capture and manage efficiently and reliably the vast amounts of unstructured data that are generated by their daily operations. This allows our customers to gain insight, improve profitability, enhance operational effectiveness and meet compliance and regulatory requirements.
End-to-end management and optimization of the contact center. We provide a set of integrated and modular tools that provide the enterprise with a comprehensive view of the contact center and powerful management capabilities. Our comprehensive solution enables the enterprise to address the essential management functions required in the contact center, including quality monitoring, workforce management, performance management, analytics and unified dashboards and reporting. These modular applications can be deployed separately or as a single unified solution depending on the customer’s needs. Our solutions enable organizations to:
— evaluate contact center agent performance;
— identify training requirements and other necessary improvements;
— allocate the appropriate workforce level and skills to optimize customer service; and
— monitor and improve contact center operational and business performance.
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Deriving insights utilizing proprietary multi-dimensional analytic capabilities. We have developed advanced multi-dimensional analytics and applications that allow our customers to derive critical insights from the vast amounts of unstructured data that they capture. In the enterprise sector, our multi-dimensional analytics enable the analysis of a wide variety of attributes related to any particular voice or data interaction. For example, our solutions can analyze context intonation, emotion level and key phrases used in a voice interaction. This analysis enables our customers to detect early signs of customer churn, gain valuable information about competitors, and identify critical market information, thereby driving the opportunity for increased revenue, profitability and productivity. Through video footage analysis provided by our solutions, our security customers are able to identify suspicious objects or behavior more quickly and effectively in order to better respond in real-time to threats, prevent intrusions, detect irregular behavior, reduce crime and accelerate investigations.
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Our Strategy
The key elements of our strategy include the following:
Drive adoptionEnterprise-wide risk management platform with dozens of our next-generation analytics in both the enterprisespecific compliance, fraud prevention and security markets.money laundering specific solutions. We intend to continue toOur Actimize solutions are based on a scalable, proprietary software platform and flexible applications that address the growing unmet need to capture, managehundreds of compliance, fraud and analyze unstructured data inmoney-laundering scenarios across an enterprise. Used by over 100 large financial services institutions, Actimize solutions monitor around a wide variety of business and operational environments. Accordingly, we plan to continue to target these opportunities through focused sales and marketing and by providing value-added services that facilitate the implementation of our solutions. Moreover, we plan to continue to invest in research and development and strategic alliances to enhance our industry-leading solutions and deliver superior insight to drive improved operational and business results. We will continue to leverage the technology, operational and partnership synergies we derive from serving both the enterprise and the security markets.
Continue to expand our differentiated end-to-end contact center solution. With the increasing strategic importance and complexity of the contact center, customers have a growing need for comprehensive management solutions. We believe our set of integrated and modular tools for contact center management represents a differentiated solution for our customers. We intend to augment and expand our offering of end-to-end solutions to maintain our industry leadership position.
Drive deployment of our solutions through value-added services. Our customers face diverse business and deployment challenges. We have developed a unique professional service organization that helps our customers capture the full value from our solutions. We help our customers analyze their business issues and re-engineer critical processes to address their specific needs. These value-added services should allow us to accelerate the market penetration of our advanced solutions and expand our offering to our installed base.
Expand and leverage our existing customer base, strategic alliances and global infrastructure. With over 24,000 customers in more than 100 countries, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies, we believe there are abundant opportunities to up-sell and cross-sell within our existing customer base by increasing their use of the full breadth of our product portfolio and by migrating them to our next-generation solutions. We also have strong strategic relationships with industry leaders such as Avaya Inc., Etrali SA, Honeywell International Inc., IPC Systems, Inc., Motorola, Inc. and Siemens AG. We intend to continue to leverage those and additional relationships to increase the value of our solutions to our end customers. We have a global infrastructure that can support, directly or through our partners, customers around the world 24 hoursbillion transactions a day, seven daysanalyzing high volumes of complex data on a week. We intendreal-time basis and enabling customers to utilize this infrastructure to address the growing needs of our customers.
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Continue to pursue selective acquisitions. We have a successful acquisition history spanning sixdetect anomalous transactions, over the past five years. We intend to continue augmenting our organic growth through additional acquisitions that broaden our productgenerate alerts and technology portfolio, expand our presence in selected geographic areas, broaden our customer base, and increase our distribution channels and vertical market access. We believe our acquisition strategy is aligned with our customers’ desire to procure broader, higher value solutions from a smaller group of strategic vendors.facilitate corrective actions.
Products
Our enterprise business solutions include recording, monitoring, quality management, workforce management and business performance management solutions, which are designed to capture interactions, analyze them and take action based on this analysis to drive enterprise performance. They also help protect businesses and customers against risks posed by lost or misinterpreted voice or data communications as well as capture and improve contact center agent performance and the customers’ experience. Our workforce and performance management solutions assist enterprises in delivering high quality of service to their customers by assuring that employees with the right skills interact with customers and that these interactions are measured against their objectives.
Our security solutions are comprised of voice platforms and applications, digital video platforms and applications, and lawful interception products. Our voice platforms and applications offering to the security market ranges in size and complexity from small, single-site single-recorder systems to large, multi-site, multi-recorder systems integrated with trunked radio and computer-aided dispatch systems. We provide emergency services and air traffic control organizations with a full range of recording features for voice, radio and trunked radio, including on-line access to hundreds of hours of recording for a quick response time, a choice of different types of archiving media, and a dubbing capability to edit calls on-line for courtroom presentations. The system enables the organizations to re-construct scenarios, investigate and improve performance. Our digital video platforms and applications provide continuous CCTV management, recording, archiving, analysis and debriefing capabilities that meet the needs of today’s demanding security environments. Our lawful interception products enable the interception, delivery, monitoring, collection and advanced analysis of telecommunication interactions. These products handle both telephony and Internet data on the same platform and are fully compliant with the international standards defined by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), under various European legislations, and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), under the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA).
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Our operational risk compliance, fraud detection and anti-money-laundering, or AML, solutions for financial institutions are built on the Actimize enterprise software platform, incorporating a graphical development interface and case management dashboard with a real-time analytics detection engine. Our securities trading and broker sales practices compliance applications identify high-risk activities by monitoring and correlating various data elements that include transactions, accounts, traders and market activities. Our fraud prevention solutions pinpoint suspicious patterns and abnormal behavior within mountains of data to assist in the identification of financial crimes, both internal (such as employee fraud or rogue trading) and external (such as online and call center fraud, payment fraud, ATM fraud and more). Our AML solutions help institutions detect suspicious money transfer activities and money laundering related issues with new accounts (customer due diligence). Our applications include transaction monitoring and suspicious activity reporting for all types of financial services institutions, including securities, banking, insurance, credit card and money services industries. Our enterprise-wide platform serves as the foundation for the packaged applications we offer to our customers in the areas of securities trading and broker sales practices compliance, fraud prevention and AML, as detailed below.
Solutions | Markets Served | Purpose |
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NICE Perform | Enterprise and Security | Records and analyzes customer interactions with contact center agents, financial trading floors, investment banking and enterprises, with a separate suite of applications for contact centers and investment banking |
NiceUniverse | Enterprise and Security | Evaluates agent performance and raises the level of customer service in contact centers through advanced voice and desktop screen recording technologies |
NiceLog | Enterprise and Security | Provides digital voice recording system, a computer telephony integrated multi-channel voice recording and retrieval system |
NICE VoIP Capture Unit | Enterprise and Security | Builds on NiceLog technology to provide a complete solution to audio storage in VoIP telephony |
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IEX TotalView | Enterprise and Security | Forecasts customer interactions, schedules agents with appropriate skills to manage and optimize level of customer service and resources |
Performix | Enterprise | Maps enterprise business objectives to group and individual goals. Tracks and reports performance against these goals |
NICE SmartCenter | Enterprise | Leverages the synergies of the combined capabilities of NICE Perform, IEX TotalView and Performix |
NICE Storage Center | Enterprise and Security | Provides central storage option; integrates with various enterprise storage networks (SAN, NAS or DAS) for long term or medium term voice storage |
NiceCall Focus III | Enterprise and Security | Provides a competitively priced voice recording system for organizations that have a relatively small number of input channels and a cost-effective solution for branch recording with centralized management and storage |
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NiceUniverse Compact | Enterprise and Security | Provides a competitively priced voice recording and quality management system for organizations that have a relatively small number of input channels and a cost-effective solution for small contact centers with centralized management and storage |
Freedom Enterprise | Enterprise and Security | Provides recording and analysis of customer interactions with contact center agents |
Freedom FT | Enterprise and Security | Provides high-level fault-tolerant recording |
Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Securities | Monitors across an extensive range of products and issues to identify suspicious activities like front running, wash transactions, etc. and provides the tools needed to effectively manage investigations, workflow, reporting and audit tracking |
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Actimize Sales Practices | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Securities | Ensures sales practices compliance suitability, registration, sales of mutual funds and annuities, approval levels of options and more - across the organization by monitoring transactions, accounts and sales representatives |
MiFID compliance | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Securities | Addresses surveillance and supervision requirements based on the European Union MiFID (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive), such as best execution, systematic internalization, transparency, client categorization, suitability, and conflicts of interest regulation |
Actimize Employee Fraud | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Fraud | Monitors firm employees for easier to find policy violation and self dealing fraud as well as highly complex and more severe attacks |
Actimize Remote Banking Fraud | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Fraud | Monitors remote banking (online, call center, ACH, mobile and others) activities to detect suspicious patterns |
Actimize Electronic Payments Fraud | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Fraud | Provides high-volume, cross-channel (ACH, external debit and others) transaction monitoring of alerting, and real-time blocking for electronic payments fraud protection |
Actimize Deposit Fraud | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Fraud | Monitors account activity and highlights deposits that have been or are at a high risk for fraud |
Actimize ATM and Debit Card Fraud | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - Fraud | Detects fraud from compromised debit cards and compromised ATM devices |
Actimize Suspicious Activity Monitoring | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - AML | Identifies suspicious patterns and abnormal behavior to assist in the identification of money laundering activity |
Actimize Watch List Filtering | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - AML | Compares firm accounts to external regulatory and third-party lists (like Politically Exposed Persons, Office of Foreign Assets Control, etc) to comply with AML rules |
Actimize Customer Due Diligence | Enterprise - Financial Institutions - AML | Provides dynamic, risk-based data collection capabilities verify client background and money source, while improving firm productivity and customer experience |
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Actimize Risk Case Manager | Enterprise - Financial Institutions | Web-based graphical user interface for managing enterprise-wide transactional risks |
Mirra-4 | Enterprise and Security | Provides small recording system that is suited to simple recording applications in which it can record up to |
NICE Inform | Security | Provides information management solution for comprehensive management of multimedia interactions for security command and control centers, enables effective management of multimedia incident information from various sources, for faster incident reconstruction, greater insight and improved response |
NiceVision Net | Security | Provides a complete |
NiceVision ControlCenter | Security | Provides an advanced control room management and network-based digital video matrix |
NiceVision | Security | Provides |
NiceVision | Security | Provides |
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FAST alpha Silver | Security | Provides high quality digital video monitoring and recording solution for large |
NiceTrack | Security | Provides interception, delivery, monitoring, collection and advanced analysis of telecommunication interactions |
Freedom rDT | Security | Works with the Motorola or M/A-COM trunked radio system to record radio communications dynamically and capture trunked radio data |
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NICE Perform is our flagship enterprise product. It is an integrated suite of solutions that offers innovative ways for organizations to generate insight from interactions to enhance performance. NICE Perform combines multiple data sources in a fully integrated architecture with a centralized data warehouse, allowing interoperability of many data sources to address a variety of business issues with a high level of accuracy. The data sources include word spotting, phonetic search and transcription, emotion detection, talk pattern analysis, customer surveys, Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) analysis, application activities and business data. With a set of advanced engines, NICE Perform provides multi-dimensional analytics of these data sources. State-of-the-art visualization techniques help enable analysts and executives to quickly and easily identify trends, deviations and situations requiring immediate action. While providing critical statistical data, NICE Perform goes beyond the scope of transactional analytics to help decision makers understand customer intent and market dynamics, identify current and future trends early enough for proactive management of challenges, opportunities and changes, and enhance corporate governance throughout the enterprise. NICE Perform also contains the contact center quality management capabilities of NiceUniverse. In addition, NICE Perform includes advanced online coaching capabilities that enable supervisors to coach the contact center agents in order to improve their skills and to empower them and cover matters as needed by different departments, such as marketing or order administration.
On the infrastructure level, NICE Perform introduces a comprehensive VoIP solutions portfolio, as well as a vast integration portfolio for VoIP environments, tradition telephony and a mix of tradition and VoIP telephony. It allows customers to gradually migrate from traditional to VoIP telephony, while utilizing the same application suite. The reinforced infrastructure of NICE Perform provides unmatched scalability, resiliency and system redundancy by ensuring the availability of all the main system components and supporting multi-sites, datacenters and branch environments.
NICE Perform Compliance Suite is used by investment banks for compliance purposes and dispute resolution. Nice Perform provides an automated process and workflow to approve the playback of a call and includes an option for interaction analytics.
NiceUniverse, introduced in February 1998, is a comprehensive quality management solution used to evaluate contact center agent performance and to raise the level of customer service in contact centers through advanced voice and desktop screen recording technologies. The NiceUniverse system provides objective evaluation tools and helps identify training requirements for contact center agents, including near real-time monitoring for instant access to live customer interactions and enhanced reporting and administration features. NiceUniverse uses a CTI that integrates with automatic call distributions (ACDs) that enable NiceUniverse to monitor and record agent sessions (voice and screen) on a user-defined schedule and store them in compressed digital format. Sessions can be retrieved later by the reviewers from their network PCs or thin clients, and agent performance is graded using customized on-screen templates. From these templates and other data, NiceUniverse generates detailed reports, statistics and graphs to help identify training requirements and set relevant benchmarks for contact center agents.
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NiceLog, our digital voice recording system, is a computer telephony integrated multi-channel voice recording and retrieval system. NiceLog is an open architecture system based on PC architecture and advanced audio compression technology that performs continuous, reliable recordings of up to thousands of analog and digital telephone lines, as well as radio channels, and enables simultaneous access by multiple users. NiceLog can be used either as a stand-alone unit or as part of a highly expandable and scaleable system comprised of several seamlessly integrated units. Each NiceLog unit can simultaneously record, monitor, archive and play back voice communications.
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NICE VoIP Capture Unit builds on our NiceLog technology to provide a complete solution to audio storage in VoIP telephony environments. The VoIP Capture Unit provides an IP-recording platform with a wide range of scaleable recording solutions that supports the leading telephony vendors. Our VoIP Capture Units are fully integrated with the NICE product portfolio, making all of our applications available for use over VoIP. NICE VoIP Loggers can serve alongside other logger types in a mixed VoIP/non-VoIP environment with the same familiar application software; users are unaware of the voice capture method being used. NICE VoIP Capture Unit’s active recording solutions integrate with leading vendors such as Alcatel, Avaya, Cisco and Nortel, offering centralized recording of distributed environments and other benefits.
IEX TotalView is our workforce management solution. It helps manage the level of customer service by matching the right resources with the demand in complex environments where customers interact through multiple channels, including telephone, email and web, and where different skills are required to address customer needs. TotalView forecasts customer interactions based on data it collects from systems such as switches, ACDs, email servers, etc. It generates detailed schedules based on these forecasts as well as on preferences entered by individual employees. TotalView measures real-time adherence to these schedules to allow operations managers to respond quickly to changes. TotalView generates detailed reports of customer interaction patterns and service levels and is used by many of our customers as their central reporting system for customer service.
Performix is a suite of performance management applications. It allows mapping strategic business goals to group and individual goals and managing to these goals. It collects data from enterprise systems, such as CRM, HR, work force management, quality management, etc., and from communication infrastructure, such as switches and ACDs, normalizes it and creates a central repository for such data. Performance manager maps corporate business goals to group and individual key performance indicators, or KPIs, it measures and reports actual performance against these KPIs. The development and evaluation management modules automate the processes of employee evaluation, individual training and personal development based on the KPIs.
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NICE SmartCenter is a solution that drives performance in contact centers and the enterprise. NICE SmartCenter leverages the synergies of the combined capabilities of NICE Perform, IEX TotalView and Performix. It provides a holistic view of contact center operations and business insight into market and customer dynamics. These capabilities are unified within an open Service Oriented Architecture, or SOA, based framework, and are offered together with NICE’s structured service and implementation methodology. NICE is pioneering the use of SOA in its markets and has enhanced and adapted it to the specific environment of the contact center, providing improved sharing of information, business processes and investment protection.
NICE Storage Center, NiceLog’s central storage option, can integrate with various enterprise storage networks (SAN, NAS or DAS) for long-term or medium-term voice storage. Central storage sites can hold the entire voice recording from the organization’s different sites, helping to reduce management costs and redundancy. The retrieval process is fully automated.
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NiceCall Focus III is a voice recording system that records up to 48 input channels and provides up to 66,00050,000 hours of on-line voice storage capacity (using NICE’s ACA compression) and supports a wide range of archiving devices for long-term storage options. NiceCall Focus III offers a wide range of connectivity to PABX and radio systems and is built on the core technology of Nice High Density Logger. NiceCall Focus III provides organizations that have a relatively small number of input channels, such as public safety agencies, with a competitively priced yet technologically advanced digital recording product that offers many of the connectivity and processing features of NiceLog. NiceCall Focus III is being targeted primarily at public safety facilities, including 911 emergency centers, and utilities, as well as small bank branches, financial trading sites, and contact centers.
NiceUniverse Compact is a new total recording and quality management solution for contact centers with up to 48 seats. NiceUniverse Compact integrates NICE’s market-leading interaction recording infrastructure with its highly successful quality management offering, creating a powerful, cost-effective recording and quality management application packaged as a unique single-box solution, easily installed and maintained with a remarkably low total cost of ownership. NiceUniverse Compact is being targeted primarily at small contact centers with up to 48 seats, as well as public safety facilities that require total recording and quality management solutions.
Freedom Enterprise combines state-of-the-art recording technology for full-time or selective recording with advanced tools for optimizing contact center performance in virtually any telephony environment, including circuit-switched telephony, VoIP and hybrid environments.
Freedom FTprovides high-level fault-tolerant recording with a design that eliminates single points of failure and ensures that recordings are captured and accessible when required.
MirraActimize Global Trading Compliance solution enables firms–trading and sales, prime brokerage, correspondent business, asset managers, hedge funds, and exchanges–to increase their insight into suspicious behavior and improve risk and compliance performance. The solution monitors across an extensive range of products and issues and provides the tools needed to effectively manage investigations, workflow, reporting, and audit tracking.
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Actimize Sales Practices solution ensures sales practices compliance across the organization by monitoring transactions, accounts and sales representatives. The solution includes an integrated case manager and covers a broad range of sales practices issues and products such as suitability, registration, sales of mutual funds and annuities, approval levels of options and more.
MiFID compliance addresses surveillance and supervision requirements based on the European Union MiFID (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive), such as best execution, systematic internalization, transparency, client categorization, suitability, and conflicts of interest regulation.
Actimize Employee Fraud monitors firm employees for easier to find policy violation and self-dealing fraud as well as highly complex and more severe attacks that could involve data theft, collusion identity shielding and others. The solution combines out-of-the-box detection and investigation capabilities and second tier of advanced analytic models and profiling techniques.
Actimize Remote Banking Fraud solution monitors remote banking activities–such as on-line, telephone, call center, and other activities–to detect suspicious patterns and generate a unified view of potential threats.
Actimize Electronic Payments Fraud solution provides high-volume, cross-channel transaction monitoring, alerting, and real-time blocking. The solution is highly accurate, delivering comprehensive electronic payments fraud protection.
Actimize Deposit Fraud solution monitors account activity and highlights deposits that have been or are at a high risk for fraud. The solution provides a comprehensive fraud monitoring system for both ‘On-Us’ and deposit fraud.
Actimize ATM and Debit Card Fraud solution detects fraud from compromised debit cards and compromised ATM devices. Built on the Actimize fraud technology platform, the solution leverages real-time monitoring and highly accurate fraud analytics technologies to provide unsurpassed protection from fraud losses while minimizing operational overhead.
Actimize Suspicious Activity Monitoring identifies suspicious patterns and abnormal behavior to assist in the identification of money laundering activity. This addresses key aspects of AML compliance for the securities, banking and insurance sectors.
Actimize Watch List Filtering compares firm accounts to lists from regulatory bodies such as The US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), Bank of England (BOE), the European Parliament, the United Nations, and the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF) as well as third party and internal lists.
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Actimize Customer Due Diligence provides holistic life cycle risk management – from initial collection of customer information and verification of customer identity, to assessing risk and efficiently investigating and managing cases. It is the only AML solution in the market that provides dynamic, risk-based data collection capabilities – the Client Interview Module – taking risk scoring and analytics to the branch level. All of these capabilities provide institutions with greater productivity and an improved customer experience.
Actimize Risk Case Manager, or RCM, is a Web-based graphical user interface for managing anomalous events and workflows. RCM presents users with real-time information to formulate tactical responses to alerts and conduct effective investigations. RCM aggregates information from our enterprise-wide solution as well as other third-party or internally developed solutions. This aggregation enables clients to consolidate business event management workflow across departments and lines of business providing them with an enterprise-wide view of operational risk. RCM includes a comprehensive repository of resolutions and audit trail capabilities that allow customers to take coordinated corrective action based on data from these various sources. RCM provides accountability by ensuring that events are resolved in accordance with standard policy or escalated for exception handling.
Mirra-4 is a small recording system that is particularly suited to simple recording applications in which it can record up to 3248 channels of voice traffic from a wide variety of analog and digital interfaces. Mirra has been designed to be simple to install, operate and maintain and has been sold to many local, city and state public safety organizations that have a single site operation. Digitized voice and associated data are stored on DVD disks that provide a robust and long-term archive medium. Mirra’s design avoids using an internal hard disk for the operating system and consequently it starts-up very rapidly and avoids the maintenance liabilities associated with hard disks.
NICE Inform is our flagship product for security command and control centers. NICE Inform is an information management solution that provides comprehensive management of multimedia interactions for security command and control centers. NICE Inform provides innovative capabilities for effectively managing multimedia incident information from various sources for faster incident reconstruction, greater insight and improved response. The broad array of capabilities of NICE Inform can be tailored to the specific needs of command and control centers for first responders and homeland security, transportation, governmentpublic and private sector organizations, and deliverdelivers improved collaboration and operational efficiency to enhance safety and security. NICE Inform captures, manages and analyzes information from multimedia sources including audio, video, text and data. Furthermore, it provides a complete, unified, chronological, multimedia history of incidents to enable streamlining of information sharing, investigations and evidence delivery.
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NiceVision is a complete, open network video security solution. It consists of four product families: NiceVision Pro,Net, NiceVision Harmony,ControlCenter, NiceVision Alto, NiceVision NVSAT, Nicevision NetAnalytics and NiceVision ControlCenter.Digital. NiceVision is a state-of-the-art digital video and audio recording systemsolution that provides continuous CCTV,management, recording, archiving,analysis and debriefing capabilitiesinvestigation for, among others, central banks,transportation facilities, critical facilities, city centers, Fortune 500 companies, transportation facilities, prisons and casinos.
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NiceVision Net is an enterprise class, scalable IP video solution. It offers great flexibility, whether as an open solution to be fully integrated with a variety of third party edge devices and security management applications, or as a complete, end-to-end offering, as well as a superior level of reliability. Its high availability architecture, supported by unique features, such as patent pending “zero points of failure” encoder redundancy, ensures non-stop surveillance under any condition for mission critical applications.
NiceVision ControlCenter provides advanced real time event management and enhanced investigation tools, and is scalable to support large multi-user, multi-site environments. NiceVision ControlCenter seamlessly manages all other NiceVision solutions, enabling users to manage hybrid architectures with a smooth migration path to a full IP architecture.
NiceVision ProAnalytics is designeda wide portfolio of video content analytics applications, integrated with NiceVision Net encoders and NiceVision ControlCenter – for high-end applications requiring high frame rate and/or a large number of cameras in a campus environment. Typical environments for the NiceVision Pro are airports, casinosautomated and ground transportation facilities. The NiceVision Pro accommodates 96 video channels in a single boxenhanced event detection and can handle storage devices in the range of terabytes. There are two types of devices: disk based on-line storage (internal drives or external RAIDs) and tape-based off-line devices.management.
NiceVision HarmonyNicevision Digital is a mid-rangefamily of digital video recording solution designatedrecorders, or DVR, for sites accommodating a large number of cameras yet requiring a variety of frame rates per channel, from single frames per second to full frame rate, when required. Typical environments for thedifferent capacities and performance levels. NiceVision Harmony are retail shops, certain bank facilities and corporate buildings. TheDigital is managed by NiceVision Harmony supports 64 video channels with a preset frame rate shared between groups of channels. The NiceVision Harmony can also support large storage devices like the NiceVision Pro.ControlCenter.
NiceVision Alto is a mid-range product that is able to support eight to 32 video channels using variable frame rates and resolutions. Typical environments for the NiceVision Alto are distributed sites that require high image quality and adjustable level of service to meet different networking channels. The NiceVision Alto runs content analytics to support smart monitoring.
NiceVision NVSAT is a small scale unit that supports four to eight video channels. It is designed for distributed architectures, providing high image quality, level of service and content analytics.
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FAST alpha Silver is designed for applications requiring monitoring and recording of high video quality at high frame rate. The system supports distributed architecture over IP based networks, using encoders and digital video servers, and supports up to 64 digital video streams in a single server.servers. Typical applications are ones that require high video quality, such as casinos, or distributed architecture, such as various transportation projects.
FAST alpha Blue is an “all in one” solution for monitoring and recording high quality video at varying frame rates. The system supports up to 32 channels in a single chassis and can be configured easily using a configuration wizard. The FAST alpha Blue is suitable for small to mid-size installations that require a “plug and play” solution for high quality video monitoring and recording.
NiceTrack is a product line that provides law enforcement agencies, internal security services and intelligence organizations with end-to-end solutions for the interception, delivery, monitoring, collection and advanced analysis of telecommunication interactions. This product line provides intelligence analysts with a broad intelligence perspective to ensure that crucial information is always delivered to decision makers and operational staff in near real-time. NiceTrack also features an open architecture design that offers government-related organizations the flexibility to build an effective intelligence platform customized and localized to suit specific operational requirements. NiceTrack, as a lawful interception solution, is fully compliant with the international standards defined by ETSI (under various European legislations) and TIA (under the CALEA legislation).
Freedom rDT works with the Motorola or M/A-COM trunked radio system to record radio communications dynamically and capture trunked radio data. It is a solution aimed at the emergency services market.
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Strategic Relationships
We have a dedicated sales organization for all of our products. In certain regions, most significantly, North America, a substantial part of our sales are made directly, while in other regions, most notably, Asia Pacific, sales are made through our distribution channels. In addition, we partner with leading companies to deliver and support our solutions. In the financial institutions market, we have established marketing, sales and support arrangements with leading suppliers of complementary products including BT Group PLC, Etrali and IPC. These companies market and distribute our products to their customers either as stand-alone solutions or as integrated parts of their own solutions. For our contact center customers, we have entered into global distribution agreements as well as alliance and partnership programs with leading vendors including Avaya, Cisco and BT. In the financial institutions market, we have established marketing, sales and support arrangements with leading suppliers of complementary products including BT SAS Institute Inc.Group PLC, IBM, IPC and Siemens.Orange Business Services. These companies market and distribute our products to their customers either as stand-alone solutions or as integrated parts of their own solutions. In the security markets, we have formed alliances for the co-marketing, distribution and distributionimplementation of our products with leading companies including Anixter International Inc., Diebold,CBORD Group Inc., Honeywell, M/A Com, Motorola, Siemens, Thales GroupPlantCML, Raytheon Company and Tyco International Ltd.Siemens.
We have focused on building a strong service and support organization for all our systems and have focused on rendering the various regions in which we operate to be as self sufficient as possible. Our partners and dealers are primarily responsible for supporting the day-to-day requirements of the end-users, while we provide technical support to such partners and dealers. In order to support our direct customers and partners, we established three regional support centers, the largest of which is in Denver, Colorado, to support our U.S. customers and partners in the Americas, as well as one in the United KingdomIsrael to support EMEA customers, dealers and partners, and one in Hong KongIndia to support APAC customers, dealers and partners. We maintain at our headquarters a staff of highly skilled customer service engineers that offer support to our dealers or partners that offer direct support to our customers. These service engineers as well as additional service engineers located in our offices in the United States, EMEA and APAC, provide first class field services and support worldwide. We maintain regular training sessions for our dealers and installation support as well.
With the offering of software applications relating to NICE SmartCenter, we have introduced a broad professional services portfolio for the rendering of professional services in addition to our legacy services. Such services include consultancy, implementation, customization, special customer training and advisory. These value added services enable our customers to improve their business processes, business analysis and the services they provide to their customers.
Our systems are generally sold with a warranty for repairs of hardware and software defects and malfunctions, the term of which is usually one year after shipment. Longer warranty periods are applicable to sales in certain international and government markets. Extended warranty and service coverage is provided in certain instances and is usually made available to customers through our distributors on a contractual basis for an additional charge.malfunctions. Our customers may purchase a renewable maintenance agreement from our dealers or directly from us. The latest software maintenance agreements generally provide for maintenance, upgrades of standard system software (on a when-and-if-available basis) and on-site repair or replacement.
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Software maintenance includes the modification of a software product after delivery to correct faults, improve performance or other attributes, or to adapt the product to a modified environment. Our software maintenance program includes an enhancement support program with on going delivery of upgrade releases.
For our telecommunications monitoring systems, we provide first and second tierall tiers of service and support either directly using our support organization or indirectly through local companies working closely with the law enforcement agencies.
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Our products are built in accordance with industry standard infrastructure and are PC compatible. The hardware elements in our products are based primarily on standard commercial off-the-shelf components and utilize proprietary in-house developed circuit cards and algorithms and digital processing techniques and software. In the fourth quarter of 2002, we started sellingWe also have “software only” solutions for use on standard servers.
We manufacture our products through subcontractors. Under a manufacturing agreement with Flextronics Israel Ltd. (or Flextronics), a subsidiary of a global electronics manufacturing services company, Flextronics provides us with a turnkey manufacturing solution including order receipt purchasing, manufacturing, testing and configuration. This agreement covers all of our product lines, including our voice recording family of products, our video product lines, our upgrade lines and our spare parts and return material authorization (RMA). We believe this outsourcing agreement provides us with a number of cost advantages due to Flextronic’s large-scale purchasing power, and greater supply chain flexibility. In connection with the acquisition of Dictaphone Corporation’s Communications Recording Systems division (or CRS), we also have a manufacturing agreement with Bulova Technologies EMS LLC, pursuant to which Bulova manufactures all ex-CRS products. This manufacturing facility is located in the United States.
Some of the components we use have a single approved manufacturer while others have two or more options for purchasing. In addition, for some of the components and subassemblies we maintain an inventory to limit the potential for interruption. We also carry out relationships directly with some of the more significant manufacturers of our components. Although certain components and subassemblies we use in our existing products are purchased from a limited number of suppliers, we believe that we can obtain alternative sources of supply in the event that such suppliers are unable to meet our requirements in a timely manner.
Quality control is conducted at various stages at our manufacturing outsourcers’ facilities and at their subcontractors’ facilities. We generate reports to monitor our operations, including statistical reports that track the performance of our products from production to installation. This comprehensive data allows us to trace failure and to perform corrective actions accordingly.
We have qualified for and received the ISO-9001:2000 quality standard for all of our products, as well as the ISO 27001 and ISO 14001:2004 certifications.
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We believe that the development of new products and the enhancement of existing products are essential to our future success. Therefore, we intend to continue to devote substantial resources to research and new product development, and to continuously improve our systems and design processes in order to reduce the cost of our products. Our research and development efforts have been financed through our internal funds and programs sponsored through the Government of Israel and the European community. We believe our research and development effort has been an important factor in establishing and maintaining our competitive position. Gross expenditures on research and development in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 20062007 were approximately $27.5 million, $33.4 million, $48.0 million and $48.0$63.3 million, respectively, of which approximately $1.3 million, $1.7 million, $1.9 million and $1.9$2.7 million, respectively, were derived from third-party funding, and $1.3 million, $0.8 million, $1.2 million and $1.2$1.0 million, respectively, were capitalized software development costs.
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In 2006,2007, we were qualified to participate in eightseven programs funded by the Office of the Chief Scientist, or OCS, of the Israeli Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor to develop generic technology relevant to the development of our products. Such programs are approved pursuant to the Law for the Encouragement of Industrial Research and Development, 1984, or the Research and Development Law, and the regulations promulgated thereunder. We were eligible to receive grants constituting between 40% and 66% of certain research and development expenses relating to these programs. These programs include programsare approved under certain Magnet consortiums and programs approved for companies with large research and development activities. Accordingly, as opposed to the standard type of OCS grants (described below), the grants under these programs are not required to be repaid. However, the restrictions of the Research and Development Law described below apply to these programs. In 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2006,2007, we received a total of $0.8 million, $2.2 million, and $1.9 million and $2.0 million from the described programs, respectively, and we anticipate receiving approximately $0.3$0.8 million in 20072008 from these programs.
In addition to the above, our subsidiary, Actimize, has one OCS program, that was defined as a standard OCS program bearing royalty obligations, under which we received $0.8 million in 2007. Upon the acquisition of Actimize, the Company decided to end such OCS program and on March 25, 2008, we paid the OCS an amount of $4.4 million in respect of the outstanding royalty obligations under such program. However, the restrictions of the Research and Development Law described below apply to this program.
We are eligible to receive grants from the OCS under its “standard” programs, usually constituting a grant of up to 50% of certain approved research and development expenses, for the research and development of certain approved technology. Under the terms of these programs, a grant recipient is required to pay royalties of 3% to 5% of the net sales of products incorporating technology developed in, and related services resulting from, a project funded by the OCS. Generally, the royalties are required to be paid beginning with the commencement of sales of such products and ending when 100% of the grant is repaid in New Israeli Shekels, or NIS, linked to the U.S. dollar plus LIBOR interest. In 2004, 2005 and 2006, we received no such grants and incurred no royalty obligations under these programs, and currently we have no further royalty obligationsprograms. With respect solely to the OCS.Actimize program, grants were received that required payment of royalties to the OCS, as noted above.
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The Research and Development Law generally requires that the product incorporating know-how developed under an OCS-funded program be manufactured in Israel. However, upon the approval of the OCS, some of the manufacturing volume may be performed outside of Israel, provided that the grant recipient pays royalties at an increased rate, which may be substantial, and the aggregate repayment amount is increased, which increase might be up to 300% of the grant (depending on the portion of the total manufacturing volume that is performed outside of Israel). The OCS is authorized to approve the transfer of manufacturing rights outside Israel in exchange for an import of different manufacturing into Israel as a substitute, in lieu of the increased royalties.royalties However, upon notification to the transfer outside of Israel of manufacturing which constitutes not more thanOCS, up to 10% of the totalgrant recipient’s approved Israeli manufacturing volume, is subject to a notification to the OCS.measured on an aggregate basis, may be transferred out of Israel. The Research and Development Law also allows for the approval of grants in cases in which the applicant declares that part of the manufacturing will be performed outside of Israel or by non-Israeli residents and the OCS is convinced that doing so is essential for the execution of the program. This declaration will be a significant factor in the determination of the OCS whether to approve a program and the amount and other terms of benefits to be granted. For example, the increased royalty rate and repayment amount will be required in such cases.
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The Research and Development Law also provides that know-how developed under an approved research and development program may not be transferred to third parties in Israel without the approval of the OCS. Such approval is not required for the sale or export of any products resulting from such research or development. The Research and Development Law further provides that the know-how developed under an approved research and development program may not be transferred to any third parties outside Israel, except in certain circumstances and subject to prior OCS approval. The OCS may approve the transfer of OCS-funded know-how outside Israel in the following cases: (a) the grant recipient pays to the OCS a portion of the sale price paid in consideration for such OCS-funded know-how (according to certain formulas); or (b) the grant recipient receives know-how from a third party in exchange for its OCS-funded know-how; or (c) such transfer of OCS-funded know-how arises in connection with certain types of cooperation in research and development activities.
The Research and Development Law imposes reporting requirements with respect to certain changes in the ownership of a grant recipient. The law requires the grant recipient and its controlling shareholders and non-Israeli interested parties to notify the OCS of any change in control of the recipient, or a change in the holdings of the means of control of the recipient that results in a non-Israeli becoming an interested party directly in the recipient, and requires the new interested party to undertake to the OCS to comply with the Research and Development Law. In addition, the rules of the OCS may require prior approval of the OCS or additional information or representations in respect of certain of such events. For this purpose, “control” is defined as the ability to direct the activities of a company other than any ability arising solely from serving as an officer or director of the company. A person is presumed to have control if such person holds 50% or more of the means of control of a company. “Means of control” refers to voting rights or the right to appoint directors or the chief executive officer. An “interested party” of a company includes a holder of 5% or more of its outstanding share capital or voting rights, its chief executive officer and directors, someone who has the right to appoint its chief executive officer or at least one director, and a company with respect to which any of the foregoing interested parties owns 25% or more of the outstanding share capital or voting rights or has the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors. Accordingly, any non-Israeli who acquires 5% or more of our ordinary shares or ADSs will be required to notify the OCS that it has become an interested party and to sign an undertaking to comply with the Research and Development Law.
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The funds available for OCS grants out of the annual budget of the State of Israel were reduced in recent years, and the Israeli authorities have indicated in the past that the government may further reduce or abolish OCS grants in the future. Even if these grants are maintained, we cannot presently predict what would be the amounts of future grants, if any, that we might receive.
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In 2006, we were selected to participate in the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). FP6 is the European Community Framework Programme for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration, which funds and promotes research. In 2006, we received a total of $0.2 million as an advance forWe expect to receive EUR 329,000 during the 30 month period of the plan. FP6 will give us funding of approximately EUR 329,000 during this period.FP6. There are no royalty obligations associated with receiving such funding. In 2006 and 2007, we received a total of $0.4 million as an advance of such funding.
We currently rely on a combination of trade secret, patent, copyright and trademark law, together with non-disclosure and non-compete agreements, to establish and/or protect the technology used in our systems.
We currently hold 4446 U.S. patents and 2464 patents issued in additional countries covering substantially the same technology as the U.S. patents. We have over 164155 patent applications pending in the United States and other countries. We believe that the improvement of existing products, and the development of new products are important in establishing and maintaining a competitive advantage. We believe that the value of our products is dependent upon our proprietary software and hardware continuing to be “trade secrets” or subject to copyright or patent protection. We generally enter into non-disclosure and non-compete agreements with our employees and subcontractors. However, there can be no assurance that such measures will protect our technology, or that others will not develop a similar technology or use technology in products competitive with those offered by us. Although we believe that our products do not infringe upon the proprietary rights of third parties, there can be no assurance that one or more third parties will not make a contrary claim or that we will be successful in defending such claim.
From time to time, we receive “cease and desist” letters claiming patent infringements. However, no formal claims or other actions have been filed with respect to such alleged infringement, except for claims filed by Dictaphone (which have since been settled and dismissed) and Witness Systems.Systems (for further information please see Item 8, “Financial Information–Legal Proceedings” in this annual report). We believe that none of these has merit. We cannot assure you, however, that we will be successful in defending such claims, if asserted, or that infringement claims or other claims, if asserted, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Defending infringement claims or other claims could involve substantial costs and diversion of management resources. In addition, to the extent we are not successful in defending such claims, we may be subject to injunctions with respect to the use or sale of certain of our products or to liabilities for damages and may be required to obtain licenses which may not be available on reasonable terms.
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We own the following trademarks and/or registered trademarks in different countries: 360º View, Alpha, ACTIMIZE, Actimize logo, Customer Feedback, Dispatcher Assessment, Encorder, eNiceLink, Executive Connect, Executive Insight, FAST, FAST alpha Blue, FAST alpha Silver, FAST Video Security, Freedom, Freedom Connect, IEX, Interaction Capture Unit, Insight from Interactions™, 360° View™, Executive Connect®, Executive Insight™, Freedom®, Investigator®, Mirra®, Universe®,Interactions, Investigator, Last Message Replay, Mirra, My Universe™, NICE®, NiceCall®,Universe, NICE, NICE logo, NICE Analyzer, NiceCall, Focus™, NiceCLS™,NiceCall Focus, NiceCLS, NICE Learning™, eNiceLink™, NiceLog®, Playback Organizer™, Renaissance®, ScreenSense™, NiceScreen™,Inform, NICE Learning, NiceLog, NICE Perform, NiceScreen, NICE SmartCenter, NICE Storage Center™, NiceTrack™, NiceUniverse®, NiceVision®,Center, NiceTrack, NiceUniverse, NiceUniverse Compact, NiceVision, Harmony™, NiceVision Mobile™,Alto, NiceVision Pro™,Analytics, NiceVision NVSAT™,ControlCenter, NiceVision Alto™,Digital, NiceVision Harmony, NiceVision Mobile, NiceVision Net, NiceVision NVSAT, NiceVision Pro, Performix, Playback Organizer, Renaissance, Scenario Replay™, Tienna®, Wordnet®, NICE Perform®, NICE Inform™, NICE Analyzer™, Last Message Replay™, NiceUniverse Compact™, Customer Feedback™, Interaction Capture Unit™, Dispatcher Assessment™, Encorder™, Freedom Connect®, FAST®, FAST alpha Silver™, FAST alpha Blue™, Fast Video Security®, Alpha®, IEX®, TotalNet®, TotalView®, NICE SmartCenter™, NiceVision Analytics™, NiceVision ControlCenter™, NiceVision Digital™, NiceVision Net™Replay, ScreenSense, Tienna, TotalNet, TotalView, Universe and Performix Technologies™. Applications to register certain of these marks have been filed in certain countries, including Australia, Brazil, the European Union, Germany, Great Britain, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Argentina and the United States. Some of such applications have matured to registrations.Wordnet.
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Israeli Export Restrictions
The export of certain defense products from Israel, such as our NiceTrack products, requires a permit from the Israeli Ministry of Defense. In addition, the sale of products to certain customers, mostly armed forces, also requires a permit from the Israeli Ministry of Defense. In 2006,2007, only a small portion of all of our sales was subject to such permit requirements. To date, we have encountered no difficulties in obtaining such permits. However, the Ministry of Defense notifies us from time to time not to conduct business with specific countries that are undergoing political unrest, violating human rights or exhibiting hostility towardtowards Israel. We may be unable to obtain permits for our defense products we could otherwise sell in particular countries in the future.
New European Environmental Regulations
Our European activities require us to comply with Directive 2002/95/ecEC of the European Parliament on the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (“RoHS”), which came into effect on July 1, 2006. This directive provides that producers of electrical and electronic equipment may not place new equipment containing lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls and certain other materials deemed to be hazardous,polybrominated diphenyl ethers, in amounts exceeding any relevant setcertain maximum concentration values, on the market in the European Union. Our products meet the requirements of the RoHS directive and we are making every effort in order to maintain compliance, without adversely affecting the quality and functionalities of our products. If we fail to maintain compliance, including by reason of failure of our suppliers to comply, we may be restricted from conducting certain business in the European Union, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
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Our European activities also require us to comply with Directive 2002/96/EC of the European Parliament on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (“WEEE”). The WEEE directive covers the labeling, recovery and recycling of IT/Telecommunications equipment, electrical and electronic tools, monitoring and control instruments and other types of equipment, devices and items, and already partly came into effect on August 13, 2005. Our products fall within the scope of the WEEE directive, and we have set up the operational and financial infrastructure required for collection and recycling of WEEE, as stipulated in the WEEE directive, including product labeling, registration and the joining of compliance schemes. We are taking and will continue to take all requisite steps to ensure compliance with this directive. If we fail to maintain compliance, we may be restricted from conducting certain business in the European Union, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
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The market for our enterprise interaction solutions is highly competitive and includes numerous products offering a broad range of features and capabilities. As the market is still developing, we anticipate that a number of our existing and potential competitors will be introducing new and enhanced products. Some of our competitors in the digital voice recording and contact center solutions include Aspect, Autonomy (formerly e-talk), Verint Systems Inc., a subsidiary of Comverse Technology Inc.,eloyalty, Genesys and WitnessVerint Systems Inc. In February 2007, Verint andacquired one of our other competitors, Witness announced that they agreed to a business combination.Systems, Inc.
We believe that competition in the evolving enterprise interaction solutions market is based on a number of factors related to the product offering and business model. With respect to products, we consider breadth of offering, application functionality, system performance and reliability, the ability to integrate with a variety of external computer and communications systems and ease of use as key factors. With respect to the business model, we consider marketing and distribution capacity, price and global service and support capacity as key factors. We believe that NICE solutions have a competitive advantage based on their ability to service large, multi-site, contact centers and their holistic integration of various unstructured data sources, their ability to extract insight with a multi-dimensional approach, their wide-range connectivity and compatibility with telephone and computer networks and their ease of use. We believe that we have a competitive advantage because of the strength of our installed customer base, size and capabilities of our global distribution network, our business partners, and our global service and support capacity.
The market for operational and transactional risk management software for financial services institutions, which has emerged only in recent years, is highly competitive and fragmented. The market is influenced by the introduction of new regulations and fraud patterns impacting the financial services industry. While no single company competes with us across all of our solutions, we face significant competition with respect to each solution that we offer. We believe that the principal competitive factors in this market include our deep domain expertise, speed of development, ability to provide service across the enterprise using one core platform and our ability to serve specific “point” solutions. Our software solutions compete with software internally developed by financial services institutions, as well as software and other solutions offered by commercial competitors, which include Fair Isaac, Fortent, Inc., Mantas, Inc., Norkom Group plc, Oracle Corporation, SAS Institute Inc. and Sungard Data Systems Inc.
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Traditionally, public safety customer voice recording requirements for emergency phones and radio were relatively basic. As the command and control center is becoming more complex and advanced systems are being deployed, and as more trunk radio and IP-based systems are offered, the recording system has to be integrated with these systems. Our ability to deliver a more integrated and sophisticated recording system that can capture voice, video, data and meta-data information from trunk radio systems and computer aided dispatch, or CAD, systems, positions our products above the competition mainly in the large high-end emergency centers. In addition, we believe that applications for scenario reconstruction of an incident connecting voice,multimedia sources (including voice), video, data, GIS and meta-data together give us an advantage over the competition. Some of our competitors in the public safety market include ASC Telecom, Verint Systems (formerly Mercom) and Voiceprint.
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There are several competitors who have products that compete with our video platform and applications. Our main competitors in this market are Bosch (formerly VCS), Dallmeier, GE (formerly Visiowave), PelcoSchneider Electric (formerly Pelco) and Verint Systems. We believe that our approach to provide a full solution based on our self-developed recording, management software, networking devices and real-time content analysis creates a competitive advantage in this market.
There are a number of competitors in the telecommunications monitoring market, having products competing with our NiceTrack system, the major ones being Raytheon Company, Siemens, ETI, JSI and Verint Systems. We believe that our solution offers innovations that provide law enforcement agencies the tools and capabilities they require to meet the challenges of today’s advanced telecommunications world, as well as being price competitive.
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The following is a list of all of our significant subsidiaries, including the name, country of incorporation or residence, and the proportion of our ownership interest in each.
Name of Subsidiary | Country of Incorporation or Residence | Percentage of Ownership Interest |
---|---|---|
Nice Systems Australia PTY Ltd. | Australia | 100% |
NICE Systems Canada Ltd. | Canada | 100% |
Nice Systems S.A.R.L. | France | 100% |
NICE Systems GmbH | Germany | 100% |
NICE APAC Ltd. | Hong Kong | 100% |
NICE Systems Kft | Hungary | 100% |
Nice Interactive Solutions India Private Ltd. | India | 100% |
Nice Technologies Ltd. | Ireland | 100% |
Actimize Ltd. | Israel | 100% |
STS Software Systems (1993) Ltd. | Israel | 100% |
Actimize Japan KK Limited | Japan | 100% |
Nice Japan Ltd. | Japan | 100% |
IEX Corporation BV | Netherlands | 100% |
Nice Systems (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 100% |
Nice Switzerland AG | Switzerland | 100% |
Actimize UK Limited | United Kingdom | 100% |
NICE CTI Systems UK Ltd. | United Kingdom | 100% |
United | 100% | |
United States | 100% | |
Nice Systems Inc. | United States | 100% |
United States | 100% |
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Our executive offices and engineering, research and development operations are located in Ra’anana, Israel, where we occupy approximately 140,000 square feet of space, pursuant to a lease expiring in 2010. The annual rent and maintenance fee for the facility is approximately $2.4 million, paid in NIS and linked to changes in the U.S. consumer price index. We also occupy additional office space in North Ra’anana, Israel, which is approximately 55,000 square feet, pursuant to a lease expiring on June 15, 2007. We are currently negotiating an extension of such lease toin 2010. The annual rent and maintenance fee for this additional facility is approximately $1.2 million.million, paid in NIS and linked to the Israeli consumer price index. We are checking alternatives for when these leases expire in 2010, as aforementioned.
We have leased various other offices and other facilities in Israel and several other countries. Our material leased facilities consist of the following:
— | Our office in Petach Tikva, Israel, which occupies approximately 16,730 square feet; |
— | Our North American headquarters in Rutherford, New Jersey, which occupy approximately 28,400 square feet. We also have offices in New York, which occupy approximately 15,000 square feet, and a warehouse facility in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, which occupies approximately 6,000 square feet; |
— | Our office in Denver, Colorado, which occupies approximately 30,775 square feet; |
— | Our office in Richardson, Texas, which occupies approximately 50,580 square feet. |
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— | Our office in Southampton, UK, which occupies approximately 34,680 square feet; and |
— | Our office in Hong Kong, which occupies approximately 9,506 square feet. |
We believe that our existing facilities are adequate to meet our current and foreseeable needs.
Item 4A. | Unresolved Staff Comments |
None.
Item 5. | Operating and Financial Review and Prospects. |
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements and the related notes and other financial information included elsewhere in this annual report. This discussion contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. As a result of many factors, including those set forth under Item 3, “Key Information – Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report, our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. For more information about forward-looking statements, see the Preliminary Note that precedes the Table of Contents of this Annual Report on Form 20-F.annual report.
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We are a leading provider of solutions that capture, manage and analyze unstructured multimedia content and transactional data enabling companies and public organizations to comply with internal and governmental regulations, enhance business and operational performance, address security threats and behave proactively. Unstructured multimedia content includes phone calls to contact centers, trading floors, branches, home agents and back offices, video captured by closed circuit television cameras, radio communications between emergency services personnel, internet sessions, email and instant messaging.messaging and converged multimedia solutions for command and control centers. Our solutions include integrated, scalable, multimedia recording platforms, enhanced software applications and related professional services. These solutions address critical business processes and risk management, compliance procedures and security needs of companies and public organizations. Our solutions facilitate faster decision-making and near real-time action, improving business and employee performance, reducing exposure to operational risk such as fraud and compliance, and enhancing security and public safety. Our customers use our systems in a variety of enterprises, such as financial services, telecommunications, health care, outsourcers, retail, service providers telecommunications and utilities. Our security solutions are primarily focused on homeland security and first responder organizations, transportation organizations, government related organizations and the public and private sector.sectors. Our solutions are deployed at over 24,000 customers, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies.
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Our products are sold primarily through a global network of distributors, system integrators and strategic partners; a portion of product sales and most services are sold directly to end-users. One distributor accounted for approximately 19%21%, 21%16% and 16%13% of revenues in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2006,2007, respectively.
The following acquisitions were accounted for as purchases, and, accordingly, the purchase price for each acquisition was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective fair values. The results of operations related to each acquisition are included in our consolidated statement of operationsincome from the date of acquisition.
On April 8, 2008, we acquired certain assets, shares and business from Quality Plus Group Ltd., a UK-based value-added distributor of NICE’s contact center solutions, and its affiliates (“QPC”), for approximately $12 million in cash. The disposed business was accounted foracquired includes the sale, distribution, service, support, maintenance and development of workforce management solutions and associated services as conducted by QPC in the UK, Sweden and Australia.
On August 30, 2007, we acquired Actimize Ltd., a discontinued operation asglobal provider of operational risk management software solutions that enable financial services institutions to manage the challenges of regulatory compliance, internal policy enforcement and fraud prevention and money laundering. Under the terms of the dateAgreement and Plan of its disposition.Merger, dated July 2, 2007 (the “Merger Agreement”), the consideration paid for Actimize was approximately $281 million, approximately 80% of which was in cash and approximately 20% of which was satisfied through the issuance of 1,501,933 of our ordinary shares based on the market price of the securities a few days before and after the terms of the acquisition were agreed upon and announced, and the fair value of the vested portion of 987,104 options and restricted shares that were issued to holders of Actimize options and restricted shares. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, we assumed the stock options and restricted shares granted by Actimize (for further information please see Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees” in this annual report).On September 12, 2007, as required by the Merger Agreement, we filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to register for resale the securities issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement, which we maintained effective for approximately six months.
In July 2006, we acquired all the outstanding shares of IEX Corporation, a leading provider of workforce management, strategic planning and performance management solutions for the contact center market, for approximately $205 million in cash. The acquisition of IEX allows us to offer our customers and partners a more extensive product portfolio in the industries in which we operate. IEX is a leading vendor in workforce management, strategic planning and performance management solutions for the contact center market. IEX provides a high-end centralized solution that compiles data seamlessly across the enterprise, enabling more accurate and effective forecasting, planning and scheduling. By purchasing IEX, we strategically expanded our market share both in geographical and vertical markets. The factors that contributed to the purchase price that resulted in recognition of goodwill included synergies, the benefits of increased market share, strategic positioning value and time-to-market benefits.
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In May 2006, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Performix Technologies Ltd., among the first to recognize the potential in the area of contact center performance management, an emerging trend in the contact center market, for approximately $13.9 million in cash, plus potential earn-outs based on performance milestones amounting to a maximum of an additional $3$3.2 million payable in 2007. As the performance milestones were not met, no additional earn out was recorded. The acquisition of Performix extends our solutions portfolio for the contact center market. The factors that contributed to the purchase price that resulted in recognition of goodwill included synergies, the benefits of increased market share vertically, strategic positioning value and time-to-market benefits.
In January 2006, we acquired all the outstanding shares of FAST Video Security AG, a Switzerland-based developer of innovative video systems for security and surveillance purposes, for approximately $22 million in cash, plus earn-outs based on performance milestones of approximately $6.2 million for 2006 and a potential maximum of $5 million for 2008. The acquisition of FAST strengthens our position in the video security market with smart IP-based solutions and technologies complementary to our existing digital video offerings. Additionally, it extends our presence in the digital video security market by increasing our footprint in the European and APAC markets with high quality distribution channels and partners, and with new prestigious customers. By purchasing FAST, we strategically expanded our market share both in geographical and vertical markets. The factors that contributed to the purchase price that resulted in recognition of goodwill included synergies, the benefits of increased market share, strategic positioning value and time-to-market benefits.
In September 2005, we acquired the assets and assumed certain liabilities of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. for $2 million in cash, plus earn-outs of an additional $0.5 million paid in the second quarter of 2006 and an additional $0.5 million paid in the second quarter of 2007. Hannamax was our distributor in Australia and New Zealand. With the acquisition of Hannamax, we expect to further expand our customer base and presence in Australia and New Zealand and to further expand and strengthen our support organization in the region. The factors that contributed to the purchase price that resulted in recognition of goodwill included the benefits of increased market share geographically, the benefits of vertical integration and time-to-market benefits.
In June 2005, we acquired the assets and assumed certain liabilities of Dictaphone Corporation’s Communications Recording Systems business (Dictaphone CRS) for approximately $38 million net after settlement. Dictaphone CRS provides liability and quality management systems for emergency services, critical facilities, contact centers and financial trading floors. In March 2006, the parties signed an amendment to the aforementioned asset purchase agreement, according to which a final adjustment has been made to the audited closing balance sheet, which reduced the purchase price under the asset purchase agreement by $2 million.million to $38 million, as aforementioned. In addition, the parties agreed that we are entitled to all previously undistributed interest and other investment income earned with respect to certain funds held in escrow. The acquisition of CRS expanded our customer base, presence in the U.S and Europe markets, and our network of distributors and partners. Additionally, it broadened our product offerings and global professional services team. By purchasing CRS, we strategically expanded our market share both in geographical and vertical markets. The factors that contributed to the purchase price that resulted in recognition of goodwill included synergies, the benefits of increased market share, strategic positioning value and time-to-market benefits.
4854
In March 2004, we sold the assets and liabilities of our COMINT/DF military-related business to ELTA Systems Ltd. for $4 million. The assets and liabilities sold included the intellectual property, fixed assets, inventory and contracts related to the COMINT/DF product line, which included high performance spectral surveillance and direction finding systems that detect, identify, locate, monitor and record transmission sources. In 2004, the COMINT/DF business generated revenues of approximately $0.8 million and net income of approximately $3.2 million (including gain on disposition).
In December 2005,September and October 2007, we completed a public offering on NASDAQ of 9,200,0005,175,000 ADSs, representing 9,200,0005,175,000 of our ordinary shares (which includes 675,000 ADSs issued upon the exercise of an option by the underwriters on October 10, 2007), at a public offering price of $23.125$35.02 per ADS, taking into account the two-for-one stock split discussed below.ADS. The net proceeds of the offering net of underwriting discount and other related expenses, amounted to approximately $201.7$180.8 million.
During May 2006, we effected a two-for-one split of our ordinary shares. The split was effected by way of a 100% stock dividend, which had an ex-dividend date of May 31, 2006. Shareholders of record at the close of business on May 30, 2006 received one additional ordinary share/ADR for each ordinary share/ADR held. Unless otherwise indicated, all ordinary share, option and per share amounts in this annual report have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to the stock split for all periods presented.
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We have not engaged in nor been a party to any off-balance sheet transactions.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make judgments and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Management believes that the significant accounting policies which affect its more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements and those that are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported results include the following:
— | Revenue recognition |
— | Allowance for doubtful accounts |
— | Inventory valuation |
— | Impairment of long-lived assets |
— |
— | Contingencies |
— | Business combination |
— | Stock-based compensation |
— | Impairment of investment in marketable securities |
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Revenue Recognition. We derive our revenues primarily from two sources: product revenues, which include hardware and software sales; and service revenues, which include support and maintenance, installation, project management and training revenue. Revenue related to sales of our products is generally recognized when persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, the product has been delivered and title and risk of loss have passed to the buyer, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. Sales agreements with specific acceptance terms are not recognized as revenue until either the customer has confirmed that the product or service has been accepted or as the acceptance provision has lapsed.
Revenues from maintenance and professional services are recognized ratably over the contract period or as services are performed.
For arrangements with multiple elements, we allocate revenue to each component of the arrangement using the residual value method based on vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) of the undelivered elements. This means that we defer the arrangement fee equivalent to the fair value of the undelivered elements until these elements are delivered.
The Company’s policy for the establishment of VSOE of fair value of maintenance is through the performance of a VSOE compliance test which is an analysis of actual PCS renewals (the population used in the VSOE compliance test is only actual renewals of maintenance).
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The Company’s policy for the establishment VSOE of fair value for installation and training is through an analysis of stand-alone sales of those services. The price charges in the separate sales are consistent with the prices charges when the same elements are included in multiple element arrangements.
The Company established VSOE of fair value to the project management services based on a price per day which is identical to price per day charged for installation services (of which separate sales exist). These identical daily rates are VSOE of fair value for the project management services.
Revenues from fixed price contracts that require significant customization, integration and installation are recognized using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting based on the ratio of hours incurred to date to the total estimated hours of the contract. The amount of revenue recognized is based on the total license fees under the license agreement and the percentage of completion achieved. The revenues from such arrangements are allocated between license revenues and professional services revenues to reflect the portion of each revenue source separately. Estimates of total project requirements are based on prior experience of customization, delivery and acceptance of similar contracts and are reviewed and updated regularly by management. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are made in the period in which such losses are first determined, in the amount of the estimated loss on the entire contact. As of December 31, 2007, no such estimated losses were identified.
To assess the probability of collection for revenue recognition, we have an established credit policy that determines, by way of mathematical formulae based on the customers’ financial statements and payment history, the credit limit that reflects an amount that is deemed probably collectible for each customer. These credit limits are reviewed and revised periodically on the basis of new customer financial statement information and payment performance.
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We record a provision for estimated sales returns and allowances on product sales in the same period as the related revenues are recorded. We base these estimates on the historical sales returns ratio and other known factors. Actual returns could be different from our estimates and current provisions for sales returns and allowances may need to be increased.adjusted.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.We evaluate the collectability of our accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where we are aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations to us, we record a specific allowance against amounts due to reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount we reasonably believe will be collected. For all other customers, we recognize allowances for doubtful accounts based on the length of time the receivables are past due.
Inventory Valuation.At each balance sheet date, we evaluate our inventory balance for excess quantities and obsolescence. This evaluation includes analyses of sales levels by product line and projections of future demand. In addition, we write off inventories that are considered obsolete. Remaining inventory balances are adjusted to the lower of cost or market value. If future demand or market conditions are less favorable than our projections, additional inventory write-downs may be required and would be reflected in cost of sales in the period the revision is made.
Our manufacturing process of our audio and video product platforms is outsourced. Under the outsourcing arrangements, we take ownership of inventories at the conclusion of the manufacturing process, such inventories representing finished goods or spare parts. As we largely manufacture to order, we do not tend to accumulate finished goods. We are obligated, however, to purchase certain excess raw material and subassembly inventories from the contract manufacturer that may be deemed obsolete or slow-moving. We monitor the levels of the contract manufacturer’s relevant inventories periodically and, if required, will write-off such deemed excess or obsolete inventory.
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Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. Our long-lived assets include property and equipment, investment in affiliates, goodwill and other intangible assets. In assessing the recoverability of our property and equipment and other intangible assets, we make judgments regarding whether impairment indicators exist based on legal factors, market conditions and operating performances of our business and products. Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that the carrying values of the intangible assets or goodwill are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial position and results of operations.
The fair value of the investment in affiliates is dependent upon the performance of the companies in which we have invested. In assessing potential impairment of these investments, we consider this factor as well as the forecasted financial performance of the investees and other pertinent information. We record an investment impairment charge when we believe that the investment has experienced a decline in value that is other than temporary.
In assessing the recoverability of our property and equipment, goodwill and other intangible assets, we make judgments regarding whether impairment indicators exist based on legal factors, market conditions and operating performances of our business and products. Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that the carrying values of the intangible assets or goodwill are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial position and results of operations.57
SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” requires that goodwill be tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. These events or circumstances could include a significant change in the business climate, legal factors, operating performance indicators, competition or sale or disposition of a significant portion of a reporting unit. Application of the goodwill impairment test requires judgment, including the identification of reporting units, assignment of assets and liabilities to reporting units, assignment of goodwill to reporting units, and determination of the fair value of each reporting unit. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step test. Under the first step, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an indication of goodwill impairment exists for the reporting unit and the enterprise must perform step two of the impairment test (measurement). Under step two, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting units’ goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, step two does not need to be performed. The fair value of each reporting unit is estimated using a discounted cash flow methodology. This requires significant judgments including estimation of future cash flows, which is dependent on internal forecasts, estimation of the long-term rate of growth for our business, the useful life over which cash flows will occur and determination of our weighted average cost of capital. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value and/or goodwill impairment for each reporting unit. We allocate goodwill to reporting units based on the reporting unit expected benefit from the acquisition. We evaluate our reporting units on an annual basis and, if required, reassign goodwill using a relative fair value allocation approach.
We are required to assess the impairment of long-lived assets, tangible and intangible, other than goodwill, under SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” on a periodic basis, when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Impairment indicators include any significant changes in the manner of our use of the assets or the strategy of our overall business, significant negative industry or economic trends and significant decline in our share price for a sustained period.
Upon determination that the carrying value of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable based upon a comparison of aggregate undiscounted projected future cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the excess of fair value over the carrying amount. We measure fair value using discounted projected future cash flows.
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Taxes on Income. We record income taxes using the asset and liability approach. Management judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. The provision for income tax is calculated based on our assumptions as to our entitlement to various benefits under the applicable tax laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The entitlement to such benefits depends upon our compliance with the terms and conditions set out in these laws. We have considered future taxable income, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and other available evidence in determining the need for a valuation allowance. Although we believe that our estimates are reasonable and that we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax strategies in estimating our tax outcome, there is no assurance that the final tax outcome will not be different than those which are reflected in our historical income tax provisions and accruals. Such differences could have a material effect on our income tax provision, net income and cash balances in the period in which such determination is made.
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On January 1, 2007, we adopted FIN No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN No. 48”), which contains a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS No. 109”). The first step is to evaluate the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that, on an evaluation of the technical merits, the tax position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. Prior to January 1, 2007, we estimated our uncertain income tax obligations in accordance with SFAS No. 109 and SFAS No. 5 “Accounting for Contingencies.”
We recorded interest on late paid taxes as financial expenses and tax related penalties as general and administrative expenses. Our policy for interest and penalties related to income tax exposures was not impacted as a result of the adoption of the recognition and measurement provisions of FIN No. 48.
As a result of the implementation of FIN No. 48, we recognized an $824,000 decrease in liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as an increase to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings.
Contingencies. From time to time, we are defendant or plaintiff in various legal actions, which arise in the normal course of business. We are required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of reserves required for these contingencies, if any, which would be charged to earnings, is made after careful and considered analysis of each individual action together with our legal advisors. The required reserves may change in the future due to new developments in each matter or changes in circumstances, such as a change in settlement strategy. A change in the required reserves would affect our earnings in the period the change is made.
Business Combination. In accordance with SFAS No. 141, “Business Combination,” we are required to allocate the purchase price of acquired companies to the tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, as well as in-process research and development based on their estimated fair values. We engage independent third-party appraisal firms to assist us in determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. This valuation requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to long-lived and intangible assets. Critical estimates in valuing certain of the intangible assets include but are not limited to: future expected cash flows from customer contracts, customer lists, distribution agreements and acquired developed technologies; expected costs to develop the in-process research and development into commercially viable products and estimating cash flows from the projects when completed; the acquired company’s brand awareness and market position, as well as assumptions about the period of time the brand will continue to be used in the combined company’s product portfolio; and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Assumptions may be incomplete or inaccurate, and unanticipated events and circumstances may occur.
5359
Stock-based Compensation. WeSince January 1, 2006, we account for stock-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment.” Under the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), stock-based compensation cost is estimated at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense ratably over the requisite service period of the award. Determining the appropriate fair value model and calculating the fair value of stock-based awards, which includes estimates of stock price volatility, forfeiture rates and expected terms, requires judgment that could materially impact our operating results.
54Impairment of investments in marketable securities. We regularly review our investments for factors that may indicate that a decline in the fair value of an investment below its cost or amortized cost is other than temporary. Some factors considered in evaluating whether or not a decline in fair value is other than temporary include: our ability and intent to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in value; the duration and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; and the financial condition and prospects of the issuer. Such reviews are inherently uncertain in that the value of the investment may not fully recover or may decline further in future periods resulting in realized losses.
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The following table sets forth our selected consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 20062007 expressed as a percentage of total revenues. Totals may not add up due to rounding.
2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | |||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Products | 72.3 | % | 66.3 | % | 63.7 | % | 66.3 | % | 63.7 | % | 61.2 | % | ||||||||||
Services | 27.7 | 33.7 | 36.3 | 33.7 | 36.3 | 38.8 | ||||||||||||||||
100.0 | 100.0 | 100.0 | 100.0 | 100.0 | 100.0 | |||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | Cost of revenues | Cost of revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||
Products* | 35.3 | 32.7 | 32.4 | 32.7 | 32.4 | 28.2 | ||||||||||||||||
Services* | 71.2 | 65.6 | 60.3 | 65.6 | 60.3 | 58.3 | ||||||||||||||||
45.2 | 43.8 | 42.5 | 43.8 | 42.5 | 39.9 | |||||||||||||||||
Gross Profit | 54.8 | 56.2 | 57.5 | 56.2 | 57.5 | 60.1 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development, net | 9.8 | 9.9 | 11.0 | 9.9 | 11.0 | 11.5 | ||||||||||||||||
Selling and marketing | 24.5 | 23.4 | 23.2 | 23.4 | 23.2 | 23.3 | ||||||||||||||||
General and administrative | 12.4 | 12.1 | 14.8 | 12.1 | 14.8 | 16.5 | ||||||||||||||||
Amortization of acquired Intangibles | 0.1 | 0.4 | 1.2 | |||||||||||||||||||
In process research and development write-off | 0.0 | 0.0 | 3.1 | |||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of acquired | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Intangibles | 0.4 | 1.2 | 1.8 | |||||||||||||||||||
In process research and development | In process research and development | |||||||||||||||||||||
write-off | 0.0 | 3.1 | 0.7 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 46.8 | 45.9 | 53.3 | 45.9 | 53.3 | 53.8 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 7.9 | 10.3 | 4.2 | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating income | 10.3 | 4.2 | 6.3 | |||||||||||||||||||
Financial income, net | 1.4 | 1.7 | 3.2 | 1.7 | 3.2 | 2.9 | ||||||||||||||||
Other income (expenses), net | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.2 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other income, net | 0.0 | 0.2 | 0.0 | |||||||||||||||||||
Income before taxes | 9.4 | 12.0 | 7.6 | 12.0 | 7.6 | 9.2 | ||||||||||||||||
Taxes on income | 0.9 | 0.3 | 2.1 | 0.3 | 2.1 | 2.0 | ||||||||||||||||
Net income from continuing operations | 8.4 | 11.8 | 5.5 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income from discontinued operations | 1.3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | 9.7 | 11.8 | 5.5 | 11.8 | 5.5 | 7.2 | ||||||||||||||||
* Respective revenues
5561
Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2006 and 2007
Revenues
Our total revenues rose approximately 26.3% to $517.4 million in 2007 from $409.6 million in 2006. Revenues from sales to the enterprise market were $394.5 million in 2007, an increase of 31.1% from 2006, and revenues from sales to the security market were $122.9 million in 2007, an increase of 13.1% from 2006. Approximately 48% of the growth in revenues is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd beginning on August 30, 2007. The remaining 52% of the growth is due to organic growth in all our regions.
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
Product Revenues | $ | 261.1 | $ | 316.9 | $ | 55.8 | 21.4 | % | ||||||
Service Revenues | 148.5 | 200.5 | 51.9 | 35.0 | ||||||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 409.6 | $ | 517.4 | $ | 107.7 | 26.3 | % |
Approximately 39% of the increase in product revenues is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The remainder of the growth is due to organic growth.
Approximately 56% of the increase in service revenues in 2007 was attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The remaining 44% growth in service revenue was due to an increase in our installed customer base resulting from new sales of products to the enterprise market. Service revenues represented approximately 39% of total revenues, as compared to approximately 36% in the year ended December 31, 2006. Although we typically generate lower profit margins on services than on products, our strategy is to continue to grow our global services business, which we believe increases the competitiveness of our product offerings, and, as a result, we expect services to represent a growing portion of total revenues in the future.
Revenues in 2007 in the Americas, which include the United States, Canada and Central and South America, rose 20.3% to $290.3 million, as compared to $241.3 million in 2006. Approximately 80% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The remaining 20% growth is due to an increase in our products revenue and higher post-contract service and maintenance revenue. Sales in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) rose 36.9% to $154.0 million in 2007, as compared to $112.5 million in 2006. Approximately 23% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The remainder of the increase is attributable to a growth in product revenues in the enterprise and security market. Sales to Asia-Pacific (APAC) increased 30.8% to $73.0 million in 2007, as compared to $55.8 million in 2006; approximately 14% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The remainder of the increase is attributable to a growth in product and service revenues in the enterprise and the security market.
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Cost of Revenues
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
Cost of Product Revenues | $ | 84.7 | $ | 89.4 | $ | 4.7 | 5.5 | % | ||||||
Cost of Service Revenues | 89.5 | 116.9 | 27.4 | 30.6 | ||||||||||
Total Cost of Revenues | $ | 174.2 | $ | 206.3 | $ | 32.1 | 18.4 | % |
Cost of product revenues increased on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of product revenues. The increase on a dollar basis is mostly due to higher amortization of intangible assets in the amount of $11.8 million in 2007 compared to $7.3 million in 2006 and due to higher sales volume, which was partially offset by the lower cost of product resulting from a higher proportion of software in the product mix. Cost of service revenues increased on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of service revenues. Approximately 52% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of the results of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. The decrease as a percentage of service revenues is due to a better utilization of the service organization and a higher volume of service revenues.
Gross Profit
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
Gross Profit on Product Revenues | $ | 176.4 | $ | 227.5 | $ | 51.1 | 29.0 | % | ||||||
as a percentage of product revenues | 67.6 | % | 71.8 | % | ||||||||||
Gross Profit on Service Revenue | 59.0 | 83.5 | 24.5 | 41.5 | ||||||||||
as a percentage of service revenues | 39.7 | % | 41.7 | % | ||||||||||
Total Gross Profit | $ | 235.4 | $ | 311.0 | $ | 75.6 | 32.1 | % | ||||||
as a percentage of total revenues | 57.5 | % | 60.1 | % |
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The improvement in gross profit on product revenues was primarily due to higher sales volume, product cost reductions and a higher proportion of software in the product mix. The improvement in gross profit margin on service revenues reflected improved staff utilization and higher volume of service revenues.
Operating Expenses
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
Research and development, net | $ | 44.9 | $ | 59.6 | $ | 14.7 | 32.9 | % | ||||||
Selling and marketing | 95.2 | 120.6 | 25.4 | 26.7 | ||||||||||
General and administrative | 60.5 | 85.1 | 24.6 | 40.7 | ||||||||||
Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 4.9 | 9.2 | 4.3 | 86.6 | ||||||||||
In process research and development write-off. | $ | 12.9 | $ | 3.7 | $ | (9.2 | ) | (71.2 | )% |
Research and Development, Net. Research and development expenses, before capitalization of software development costs and government grants, increased to $63.3 million in 2007, as compared to $48.0 million in 2006 and represented 12.2% and 11.7% of revenues in 2007 and 2006, respectively. Approximately 57% of the increase in research and development, net is attributable to the inclusion of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. Approximately 19% of the increase is attributable to the increase in stock based compensation expenses the remaining is due to a business growth.
Capitalized software development costs were $1.0 million in 2007, as compared to $1.2 million in 2006. Amortization of capitalized software development costs included in cost of product revenues were $1.2 million and $1.5 million in 2007 and 2006, respectively.
Selling and Marketing Expenses. Selling and marketing expenses increased to $120.6 million in 2007, as compared to $95.2 million in 2006 and represented 23.3% of total revenues in 2007, as compared to 23.2% in 2006. Approximately 38% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. Approximately 13% of the increase is attributable to the increase in stock based compensation expenses the remaining is due to a business growth.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses represented 16.5% of total revenues in 2007, as compared to 14.8% in 2006. Approximately 15% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of IEX Corporation and Performix for the entire year and the first time inclusion of Actimize Ltd. Approximately 16% of the increase is attributable to an increase in stock based compensation expenses, approximately 32% is due to an increase in legal expenses, primarily associated with our patent litigations, and the remainder is due to business growth.
64
Amortization of acquired intangible assets.Amortization of acquired intangibles included in the operating expenses represent 1.8% and 1.2% of revenues in 2007 and 2006 respectively. The increase of $4.3 million is due to the Actimize acquisition and the 12 month amortization of intangibles assets resulted from the IEX and Performix acquisitions.
In process research and development write-off. In process research and development write-off in the amount of $3.7 million represents a one-time write-off of Actimize in process research and development in 2007 and a one-time $12.9 million write-off of IEX and FAST in process research and development in 2006.
Financial and Other Income
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
Financial income, net | $ | 13.3 | $ | 14.8 | $ | 1.5 | 11.7 | % | ||||||
Other income (expense), net | 0.6 | - | (0.6 | ) | (103.9 | ) |
Financial Income, Net. The increase in financial income, net reflects a higher average cash balance and higher prevailing average interest rates in 2007, as compared to 2006.
Taxes on Income. In 2007, taxes on income amounted to $10.3 million, as compared to $8.6 million in 2006. Our effective tax rate amounted to 21.5% in 2007 compared with 27.7% in 2006. The decrease in our effective tax rate in 2007 was mainly due to the in-process research and development write-off made in 2006 related to our acquisition of IEX Corporation, which was a non-deductible expense for tax purposes, and due to a decrease in valuation allowance in 2007.
The reduction of the corporate tax rate in Israel from 34% in 2005 and 31% in 2006 to 29% in 2007 had a minor impact on our effective tax rate. This is because the majority of our income earned in Israel benefits from the reduced tax rates applicable to us as a result of our Approved and Privileged Enterprise programs.
Further information with regard to our Approved and Privileged Enterprise programs can be found in Item 3, “Risk Factors” under the caption” “We depend on the availability of government grants and tax benefits” and in Note 12 of our Consolidated Financial Statements under the caption “Taxes on Income.”
As shown in Note 12(h) of our Consolidated Financial Statements, pursuant to the adoption of FIN No. 48 as of January 1, 2007, our taxes on income included a net $4.2 million expense in relation to unrecognized tax benefits. Subject to unpredictable effects of any future settlements with tax authorities, unadjusted expiration of the statute of limitations, future changes in law or accepted practice and effects of potential mergers and acquisitions, we expect our effective tax rate (which includes effects of FIN No. 48) to be fairly stable in the coming years at around 20%.
65
Net Income from Continuing Operations. Net income from continuing operations was $37.4 million in 2007, as compared to $22.4 million in 2006. The increase in 2007 resulted primarily from the increase in revenues and an increase in the gross margin.
Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2005 and 2006
Revenues
Our total revenues rose approximately 31.7% to $409.6 million in 2006 from $311.1 million in 2005. Revenues from sales to the enterprise market were $300.9 million in 2006, an increase of 26.8% from 2005, and revenues from sales to the security market were $108.7 million in 2006, an increase of 47.4% from 2005. Approximately 25% of the growth in revenues is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of IEX Corporation beginning on July 7, 2006, Performix Technologies Ltd. beginning on May 22, 2006, and FAST Video Security AG beginning on January 4, 2006 (collectively referred to below as the “2006 acquisitions”), as well as the inclusion of Dictaphone CRS results for a full year compared with seven months in 2005 and the inclusion of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. results for a full year compared to four months in 2005. Approximately 75% of the growth is due to organic growth.
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Years Ended December 31, | (U.S. dollars in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | 2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Product Revenues | $ | 206.4 | $ | 261.1 | $ | 54.7 | 26.5 | % | $ | 206.4 | $ | 261.1 | $ | 54.7 | 26.5 | % | ||||||||||||
Service Revenues | 104.7 | 148.5 | 43.8 | 41.8 | 104.7 | 148.5 | 43.8 | 41.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 311.1 | $ | 409.6 | $ | 98.5 | 31.7 | $ | 311.1 | $ | 409.6 | $ | 98.5 | 31.7 | % |
Approximately 40% of the increase in product revenues is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions. The remainder of the growth is due to organic growth.
Approximately 17% of the increase in service revenues is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions, the inclusion of Dictaphone CRS results for a full year compared with seven months in 2005 and the inclusion of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. results for a full year compared to four months in 2005. The remaining 83% growth was due to an increase in our installed customer base resulting from new product sales and higher installation and training revenues relating mainly to the increase in product sales to the enterprise market.
66
Service revenues represented 36.3% of total revenues, as compared to approximately 33.7% in 2005. Although we typically generate lower profit margins on services than on products, our strategy is to continue to grow our global services business, which we believe increases the competitiveness of our product offerings, and, as a result, we expect services to represent a growing portion of total revenues in the future.
Revenues in 2006 in the Americas, which include the United States, Canada and Central and South America, rose 47.8% to $241.3 million, as compared to $163.3 million in 2005. Approximately 31% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions. The remaining 69% growth is due to an increase in our products revenue and higher post-contract service and maintenance revenue. Sales to Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) rose 13.3% to $112.5 million in 2006, as compared to $99.3 million in 2005. Approximately 48% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions. The remaining 52% growth is due mainly to higher sales to the security market and higher services and maintenance revenues primarily related to the enterprise market. Sales to Asia-Pacific (APAC) increased 15.1% to $55.8 million in 2006, as compared to $48.5 million in 2005, Approximately 50% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. results for a full year compared to four months in 2005. The remaining 50% growth is due mainly to higher sales to the security market.
56
Cost of Revenues
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Years Ended December 31, | (U.S. dollars in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | 2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cost of Product Revenues | $ | 67.5 | $ | 84.7 | $ | 17.2 | 25.5 | % | $ | 67.5 | $ | 84.7 | $ | 17.2 | 25.5 | % | ||||||||||||
Cost of Service Revenues | 68.7 | 89.5 | 20.8 | 30.3 | 68.7 | 89.5 | 20.8 | 30.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Cost of Revenues | $ | 136.2 | $ | 174.2 | $ | 38.0 | 27.9 | $ | 136.2 | $ | 174.2 | $ | 38.0 | 27.9 | % |
Cost of product revenues increased on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of product revenues. The increase on a dollar basis was mainly due to higher sales volume, amortization of intangible assets in the amount of $7.3 million in 2006 compared to $1.3 million in 2005 and the adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation in 2006 in the amount of $0.3 million, which was partially offset by the lower cost of product resulting from a higher proportion of software in the product mix. Cost of service revenues increased on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of service revenues. Approximately 38% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions and approximately 6% of the increase is attributable to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) for stock-based compensation. The decrease as a percentage of service revenues is due to better utilization of the service organization and a higher volume of service revenues.
67
Gross Profit
Years Ended December 31, | Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | (U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | 2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross Profit on Product Revenues | $ | 138.8 | $ | 176.4 | $ | 37.6 | 27.1 | % | $ | 138.8 | $ | 176.4 | $ | 37.6 | 27.1 | % | ||||||||||||
as a percentage of product revenues | 67.3 | % | 67.6 | % | 67.3 | % | 67.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Gross Profit on Service Revenue | 36.1 | 59.0 | 22.9 | 63.4 | 36.1 | 59.0 | 22.9 | 63.4 | ||||||||||||||||||||
as a percentage of service revenues | 34.4 | % | 39.7 | % | 34.4 | % | 39.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Gross Profit | $ | 174.9 | $ | 235.4 | $ | 60.5 | 34.6 | $ | 174.9 | $ | 235.4 | $ | 60.5 | 34.6 | % | |||||||||||||
as a percentage of total revenues | 56.2 | % | 57.5 | % | 56.2 | % | 57.5 | % |
57
The improvement in gross profit on product revenues was due primarily to higher sales volume, product cost reductions and a higher proportion of software in the product mix. The improvement in gross profit margin on service revenues reflected improved staff utilization and higher volume of service revenues.
Operating Expenses
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Years Ended December 31, | (U.S. dollars in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | 2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development, net | $ | 30.9 | $ | 44.9 | $ | 14.0 | 45.3 | % | $ | 30.9 | $ | 44.9 | $ | 14.0 | 45.3 | % | ||||||||||||
Selling and marketing | 72.8 | 95.2 | 22.4 | 30.8 | 72.8 | 95.2 | 22.4 | 30.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||
General and administrative | 37.7 | 60.5 | 22.8 | 60.5 | 37.7 | 60.5 | 22.8 | 60.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 1.3 | 4.9 | 3.6 | 276.9 | 1.3 | 4.9 | 3.6 | 276.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
In process research and development write-off | 0.0 | 12.9 | 12.9 | - | 0.0 | 12.9 | 12.9 | - |
Research and Development, Net. Research and development expenses, before capitalization of software development costs and government grants, increased to $48.0 million in 2006, as compared to $33.4 million in 2005 and represented 11.7% and 10.7% of revenues in 2006 and 2005, respectively. Approximately 69% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions and approximately 10% of the increase is attributable to the adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation.
Capitalized software development costs were $1.2 million in 2006, as compared to $0.8 million in 2005. Amortization of capitalized software development costs included in cost of product revenues was $1.5 million and $2.4 million in 2006 and 2005, respectively.
68
Selling and Marketing Expenses. Selling and marketing expenses represented 23.2% of total revenues in 2006, as compared to 23.4% in 2005. Approximately 43% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions and the inclusion of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. results for a full year compared to four months in 2005, approximately 15% of the increase is attributable to the adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation..compensation.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses represented 14.8% of total revenues in 2006, as compared to 12.1% in 2005. Approximately 15% of the increase is attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of the 2006 acquisitions, approximately 28% of the increase is attributable to the adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation.
58
Amortization of acquired intangible assets Amortization of acquired intangibles included in the operating expenses represent 1.2% and 0.4% of 2006 and 2005 revenues the increase is due to 2006 acquisitions.
In process research and development write-off In process research and development write-off represent a one time write-off of IEX Corporation and FAST Video Security AG In process R&D.
Financial Income
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
Financial income, net | $ | 5.4 | $ | 13.3 | $ | 7.9 | 146.3 | % | ||||||
Other income (expense) | (0.0 | ) | 0.6 | 0.6 | - |
Financial Income, Net. The increase in financial income, net reflects a higher average cash balance and higher prevailing average interest rates in 2006, as compared to 2005.
59
Taxes on Income. 2006, taxes on income amounted to $8.6 million, as compared to $0.9 million in 2005. Our effective tax rate amounted to 27.7% in 2006, compared with 2.4% in 2005 and 9.8% in 2004. First time recognition of deferred tax assets in 2005 in the amount of $4.8 million was the principal cause of the low effective tax rate which arose in that year. The increase in our effective tax rate in 2006 is mainly due to the in-process research and development write-off related to our acquisition of IEX Corporation, which is a non-deductible expense for tax purposes.
The reduction of the corporate tax rate in Israel from 35% in 2004 to 34% in 2005 and 31% in 2006 had a minor impact on our effective tax rate. This is because the majority of our operating income earned in Israel benefits from the reduced tax rates applicable to us as a result of our Approved (or Privileged) Enterprise programs.
Further information with regard to our Approved and Privileged Enterprise programs can be found in Item 3 – Risk Factors under the caption “We depend on the availability of government grants and tax benefits” and in Note 13 of our Financial Statements under the caption “Taxes on Income.”
Our effective tax rate was also affected in 2006 by a favorable geographic mix of where our profits are earned.
Subject to unpredictable effects of any future settlements with tax authorities (or unadjusted expiration of the statute of limitations) and/or effects of potential mergers or acquisitions, we expect our effective tax rate to be relatively stable in the region of 20%.
Net Income from Continuing Operations.Net income from continuing operations was $22.4 million in 2006, as compared to $36.6 million in 2005. The decrease in 2006 resulted primarily from the write-off of acquired in-process research & development, adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation and the increase in the amortization of acquired intangibles.
Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2004 and 2005
Revenues
Our total revenues rose approximately 23.1% to $311.1 million in 2005 from $252.6 million in 2004. Revenues from sales to the enterprise market were $237.4 million in 2005, an increase of 22.3% from 2004, and revenues from sales to the security market were $73.7 million in 2005, an increase of 26.0% from 2004. Approximately 37% of the growth in revenues was attributable to the inclusion for the first time of the results of Dictaphone CRS beginning on June 1, 2005 and Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. beginning on September 1, 2005. The remaining 63% growth was due to market share gains in these markets and market growth.
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Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 | 2005 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
Product Revenues | $ | 182.6 | $ | 206.4 | $ | 23.8 | 13.0 | % | ||||||
Service Revenues | 70.0 | 104.7 | 34.7 | 49.6 | ||||||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 252.6 | $ | 311.1 | $ | 58.5 | 23.2 |
The increase in product revenues was due primarily to higher sales to the enterprise and public safety and security markets.
Approximately 50% of the increase in service revenues was due to an increase in our installed customer base resulting from new product sales, higher installation and training revenues relating mainly to the increase in product sales to the enterprise market. The remaining increase was attributable to the first time inclusion of the Dictaphone CRS service revenue beginning on June 1, 2005. The increase attributable to the acquisition of Dictaphone CRS resulted from the increase in volume of services sold. Service revenues represented 33.7% of total revenues, as compared to approximately 27.7% in 2004. Although we typically generate lower profit margins on services than on products, our strategy is to continue to grow our global services business, which we believe increases the competitiveness of our product offerings. As a result, we expect services to represent a growing portion of total revenues in the future.
Revenues in 2005 in the Americas, which include the United States, Canada and Central and South America, rose 34.3% to $163.3 million, as compared to $121.6 million in 2004. Approximately 45% of the increase was attributable to the inclusion of the Dictaphone CRS revenues beginning on June 1, 2005. The remaining 55% increase was attributable to higher post-contract service and maintenance revenue. Sales to Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) rose 6.5% to $99.3 million in 2005, as compared to $93.2 million in 2004. The increase was due mainly to higher sales to the security market and higher services and maintenance revenues primarily related to the enterprise market. Sales to Asia-Pacific (APAC) increased 28.3% to $48.5 million in 2005, as compared to $37.8 million in 2004, due mainly to higher sales to the enterprise market.
Cost of Revenues
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 | 2005 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
Cost of Product Revenues | $ | 64.4 | $ | 67.5 | $ | 3.1 | 4.8 | % | ||||||
Cost of Service Revenues | 49.9 | 68.7 | 18.8 | 37.7 | ||||||||||
Total Cost of Revenues | $ | 114.3 | $ | 136.2 | $ | 21.9 | 19.2 |
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Cost of product revenues increased slightly on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of product revenues. The increase on a dollar basis was mainly due to the higher sales volume, which was partially offset by the lower cost of product resulting from a higher proportion of software in the product mix. Cost of service revenues increased on a dollar basis while decreasing as a percentage of service revenues. The decrease as a percentage of services is due to better utilization of the service organization and a higher volume of service revenues.
Gross Profit
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 | 2005 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
Gross Profit on Product Revenues | $ | 118.2 | $ | 138.8 | $ | 20.6 | 17.4 | % | ||||||
as a percentage of product revenues | 64.7 | % | 67.3 | % | ||||||||||
Gross Profit on Service Revenue | 20.1 | 36.1 | 16.0 | 79.6 | ||||||||||
as a percentage of service revenues | 28.8 | % | 34.4 | % | ||||||||||
Total Gross Profit | $ | 138.3 | $ | 174.9 | $ | 36.6 | 26.5 | |||||||
as a percentage of total revenues | 54.8 | % | 56.2 | % |
The improvement in gross profit on product revenues was due primarily to higher sales volume, product cost reductions and a higher proportion of software in the product mix. The improvement in gross profit margin on service revenue reflected improved staff utilization and a higher volume of service revenues.
Operating Expenses
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2004 | 2005 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||
Research and development, net | $ | 24.9 | $ | 30.9 | $ | 6.0 | 24.1 | % | ||||||
Selling and marketing | 61.8 | 72.8 | 11.0 | 17.8 | ||||||||||
General and administrative | 31.3 | 37.7 | 6.4 | 20.4 | ||||||||||
Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 0.3 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 333.3 |
Research and Development, Net. Research and development expenses, before capitalization of software development costs and government grants, increased to $33.4 million in 2005, as compared to $27.5 million in 2004 (an increase of 21%) and represented 10.7% and 10.9% of revenues in 2005 and 2004, respectively. The increase in these expenses was due mainly to an increase in research and development labor costs (research and development headcount increased by 22% during 2005). Approximately one third of the increase in research and development costs was due to the inclusion of Dictaphone CRS beginning on June 1, 2005. The increase in research and development activity is essential to support our growth strategy and to enable us to maintain our technological and business leadership in the industry.
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Capitalized software development costs were $0.8 million in 2005, as compared to $1.3 million in 2004. Amortization of capitalized software development costs included in cost of product revenues was $2.4 million and $4.1 million in 2005 and 2004, respectively.
Selling and Marketing Expenses. Selling and marketing expenses represented 23.4% of total revenues in 2005, as compared to 24.5% in 2004.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses represented 12.1% of total revenues in 2005, as compared to 12.4% in 2004.
Financial Income
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Years Ended December 31, | (U.S. dollars in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2004 | 2005 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | 2005 | 2006 | Dollar Change | Percentage Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
(U.S. dollars in millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial income, net | $ | 3.6 | $ | 5.4 | $ | 1.8 | 50 | % | $ | 5.4 | $ | 13.3 | $ | 7.9 | 146.3 | % | ||||||||||||
Other income (expense) | 0.1 | (0.0 | ) | (0.1 | ) | (0.0 | ) | 0.6 | 0.6 | - |
Financial Income, Net. The increase in financial income, net reflects a higher average cash balance and higher prevailing average interest rates in 2005,2006, as compared to 2004.2005.
Taxes on Income. In 2005, we recorded a provision for2006, taxes on income taxes ofamounted to $8.6 million, as compared to $0.9 million (anin 2005. Our effective tax rate amounted to 27.7% in 2006, compared with 2.4% in 2005 and 9.8% in 2004. First time recognition of 2.4%), as compared to $2.3deferred tax assets in 2005 in the amount of $4.8 million (anwas the principal cause of the low effective tax rate of 9.8%)which arose in 2004.that year. The decrease was primarilyincrease in our effective tax rate in 2006 is mainly due to the in-process research and development write-off related to $4.8 millionour acquisition of net deferredIEX Corporation, which is a non-deductible expense for tax assets, recognized forpurposes.
The reduction of the first time. We were ablecorporate tax rate in Israel from 35% in 2004 to release34% in 2005 and 31% in 2006 had a material portionminor impact on our effective tax rate. This is because the majority of our valuation allowance, which had previously appliedoperating income earned in Israel benefits from the reduced tax rates applicable to us as a result of our Approved (or Privileged) Enterprise programs.
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Further information with regard to our deferredApproved and Privileged Enterprise programs can be found in Item 3, “Risk Factors” under the caption “We depend on the availability of government grants and tax assets, becausebenefits” and in Note 12 of our belief that fromFinancial Statements under the caption “Taxes on Income.”
Our effective tax rate was also affected in 2006 to at least 2008 we would be able to earn sufficient taxable income in both Israel and the United States to realizeby a certain portionfavorable geographic mix of those deferred tax assets.where our profits are earned.
Net Income from Continuing Operations. Net income from continuing operations was $22.4 million in 2006, as compared to $36.6 million in 2005, as compared to $21.3 million2005. The decrease in 2004. The increase in 20052006 resulted primarily from the write-off of acquired in-process research & development, adoption of SFAS No 123(R) for stock-based compensation and the increase in revenues and gross margin.
Net Income from Discontinued Operations. Net income from the discontinued operationsamortization of our COMINT/DF military-related business was $0 in 2005, as compared to approximately $3.2 million (including gain on disposition) in 2004.acquired intangibles.
In recent years, we have financed our operations through cash generated from operations. Generally, we invest our excess cash in instruments that are highly liquid, investment grade securities. At December 31, 2006,2007, we had $296.1$398.2 million of cash and cash equivalents and short-term and long-term investments, as compared to $296.1 million at December 31, 2006 and $411.6 million at December 31, 2005 and $165.9 million at December 31, 2004.2005.
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Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $117.8 million, $87.6 million and $65.7 million in 2007, 2006 and $44.3 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Net cash from operations in 20042007 consisted primarily of net income of $21.3$37.4 million and adjustments for non-cash activities including depreciation and amortization of $13.8$30.9 million, stock-based compensation of $23.7 million, an in-process research and an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilitiesdevelopment write-off of $13.0 million, which were partially offset by a decrease in trade payables of $3.8 million. Net cash from operations in 2005 consisted primarily of net income of $36.6 million and adjustments for non-cash activities including depreciation and amortization of $13.2$3.7 million, an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities of $27.3$51.9 million, and an increasea decrease in trade payablesinventories of $5.8$7.6 million, which were partially offset by an excess tax benefit from share-based payments arrangements of $4.9 million, an increase in trade receivables of $11.5$15.2 million, an increase in inventoriesother receivables and prepaid expenses of $3.9$9.6 million, a decrease in trade payable of $3.0 million and deferred tax of $4.8$5.3 million. Net cash from operations in 2006 consisted primarily of net income of $22.4 million and adjustments for non-cash activities including depreciation and amortization of $21.9 million, stock-based compensation of $12.6 million, an in-process research and development write-off of $12.9 million, an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities of $28.0 million, an increase in trade payable of $1.4 million and a decrease in inventories of $5.4 million, which were partially offset by an excess tax benefit from share-based payments arrangements of $5.7 million, an increase in trade receivables of $6.8 million and deferred tax of $3.7 million. Net cash from operations in 2005 consisted primarily of net income of $36.6 million and adjustments for non-cash activities including depreciation and amortization of $13.2 million, an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities of $27.3 million and an increase in trade payables of $5.8 million, which were partially offset by an increase in trade receivables of $11.5 million, an increase in inventories of $3.9 million and deferred tax of $4.8 million
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Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations was $276.0 million, $318.4 million and $64.3 million in 2007, 2006 and $72.3 million in 2006, 2005 and 2004 respectively.respectively In 2004,2007, net cash used in investing activities consisted primarily of investment in marketable securities of $122.2$208.6 million, andinvestment in short-term bank deposits of $39.1 million, purchase of property and equipment of $6.7$10.9 million, payment for the acquisition of Actimize Ltd. of $210.5 million, a $5.0 million earn out payment with respect to FAST Security AG acquisition and payment for working capital adjustment with respect to the acquisition of IEX Corporation of $1.5 million. These were partially offset by proceeds from the maturity of marketable securities of $170.9 million and proceeds from the sale and call of marketable securities of $30.1 million. In 2006, net cash used in investing activities consisted primarily of investment in marketable securities of $217.7 million, purchase of property and equipment of $8.1 million, payment for the acquisition of IEX Corporation of $203.2 million, payment for the acquisition of Performix Technologies Ltd. of $13.8 million and payment for the acquisition of FAST Video Security AG of $21.3 million, which were partially offset by proceeds from the maturity of marketable securities of $17.7$142.2 million and proceeds from the sale and call of marketable securities of $41.3$3.0 million. In 2005, net cash used in investing activities consisted primarily of investment in marketable securities of $218.5 million, purchase of property and equipment of $6.1 million, payment for the acquisition of Dictaphone CRS of $39.7 million and payment for the acquisition of Hannamax Hi-Tech Pty. Ltd. of $1.9 million, which were partially offset by proceeds from the maturity of marketable securities of $190.7 million and proceeds from the sale and call of marketable securities of $9.6 million. In 2006, net cash used in investing activities consisted primarily of investment in marketable securities $217.7 million, purchase of property and equipment $8.1 million, payment for the acquisition of IEX Corporation of $203.2 million, payment for the acquisition of Performix Technologies Ltd. of $13.8 million and payment for the acquisition of FAST Video Security AG of $21.3 million, which were partially offset by proceeds from the maturity of marketable securities of $142.2 million and proceeds from the sale and call of marketable securities of $3.0 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $206.2 million, $43.7 million and $227.0 million in 2007, 2006 and $19.9 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. In 2004,2007, net cash provided from financing activities consisted of proceeds from the issuance of shares in our public offering of $180.9 million, proceeds from the issuance of shares upon exercise of options and purchase of shares under the employee share purchase plan of $20.3 million and an excess tax benefit from share-based payments agreements of $4.9 million. In 2006, net cash provided from financing activities consisted primarily of proceeds from the issuance of shares upon exercise of options and purchase of shares under the employee share purchase plan.plan of $39.0 million and an excess tax benefit from share-based payments agreements. In 2005, net cash provided from financing activities consisted of proceeds from the issuance of shares in our public offering of $201.7 million and proceeds from the issuance of shares upon exercise of options and purchase of shares under the employee share purchase plan of $25.3 million. In 2006, net cash provided from financing activities consisted primarily of proceeds from the issuance of shares upon exercise of options and purchase of shares under the employee share purchase plan of $39.0 million and an excess tax benefit from share-based payments agreements. As of December 31, 2006,2007, we had authorized credit lines from banks in the amount of $260$312 million. As of December 31, 2006,2007, we had no outstanding borrowings under these credit lines; however, $6.2$12.9 million of the $260$312 million was utilized for bank guarantees. Any borrowing under these credit lines will be denominated in dollars and will bear interest at the rate of up to LIBOR + 0.45% per year. Any borrowing under three of these credit lines, having an aggregate borrowing limit of $211$278 million, would be secured by our marketable securities.
64 On August 29, 2007, we entered into an unsecured loan agreement and a letter of undertaking with Bank Hapoalim B.M., which provided for a term loan of $120 million to finance a portion of the cash consideration for the Actimize transaction. The loan was repaid in one installment on September 28, 2007.
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We believe that based on our current operating forecast, the combination of existing working capital, expected cash flows from operations and available credit lines will be sufficient to finance our ongoing operations for the next twelve months. This belief takes into consideration the steps we have taken to limit certain customer-related risks through insuring a significant portion of our accounts receivable and achieving ISO 9000-2001 certification to help ensure the quality of our products and services, which in turn lowers our exposure to certain commercial risks.
For information on our research and development policies, please see Item 4, “Information on the Company” in this annual report.
Our development efforts for our recording platforms are aimed at addressing several trends developing inindustry trends. In the industry. The trend towardsenterprise sector, these include compliance and risk management, enhancement of operational efficiencies, and improving customer retention and insights. In the proliferation of voice over IPsecurity sector there is leadinga growing demand for more comprehensive and integrated solutions to a greater requirement for VoIP recording capabilities in financial trading, contact centers,provide better safety and security related environments and telecommunications monitoring. The continued trend towards replacing analog video recording with digital video recording and the shift toward video over IP is leading to the need for network applications in the video recording area.
Wecitizens. Our development efforts are also see the continuation of a trend towards requirements for multimedia recording capabilities, in contact centers (voice, fax, email, chat screen), security (voice, radio, video, GIS, data) and telecommunications monitoring (voice, fax, internet) markets. We are beginning to see this same trend developing in the financial trading sector, and we expect some Homeland Security initiatives in areasinfluenced by technology trends, such as border control, critical infrastructure security and first responder communications to require multimedia capture platforms as well.
the evolvement of VoIP. We also see the migration to VoIP networks as a driver for deployment of additional systemssystems.
Our compliance and risk management solutions apply to contact centers, trading floors, branches, home agents and back offices. In this area, the continuous enactment of new regulations represents tremendous growth prospects for centralized branch recording and managed services.NICE.
We believe that enhancing operational efficiency is especially critical to our customers. In addition, our customers seek solutions that can improve their customer retention and insight into their customer trends and dynamics. Thus, we are seeing growing demand from our contact center customers to streamline their operationsoperational efficiency by deploying a more comprehensive set of our contact center solutions, such asin addition to recording. These include quality monitoring, analytics, work forceworkforce management, performance management, customer feedback, etc.
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Our software applications enable our customers to capture, store, retrieve and analyze unstructured data (multimedia interactions) and combine them with data from other systems to create actionable knowledge that can be distributed via reports and alerts to all relevant parties to improve performance.
There is growing demand from our customers for software applications that will leverage the wealth of unstructured data captured by the recording platform to improve overall performance. In turn, as these enhanced software applications are being added, customers are considering our systems “mission critical.” We see an opportunity for applications that analyze the content of unstructured interactions in contact centers for quality monitoring and contact center management as well as for enterprise-wide process improvement and business performance management. We see a trend towards more software applications
Governments and corporations around the world are investing in the financial trading environmentprotection of people and assets. As a result, there is a growing demand for compliance monitoringmore comprehensive and disputeintegrated solutions to provide better safety and security to citizens. These large projects include installation and implementation of wide-scale security systems, which better synchronize and correlate multimedia data sources in order to detect, prevent and resolve crime and terror in real time and investigate quickly in order to prosecute the persons involved. Our solutions offer an integrated multimedia capture and management to improve business performance.solution that combines radio, telephony, IP data, GIS, and video.
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We see similar trends happening in digital video recording. Wealso expect video content analysis applications to become increasingly important to building, campus, city center and infrastructure perimeter security, loss prevention in casinos, retail and warehousing,protection, as well as various homeland security applications, mass transportation systems, campus perimeter security, and critical facilities, to enable proactive security management.
For more information on trends in our industry, please see Item 4, “Information on the Company–Business Overview–Industry Background and Trends.”
For more information on uncertainties, demands, commitments or events that are reasonably likely to have a material effect on revenue, please see Item 3, “Key Information–Risk Factors.”
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Contractual Obligations
Set forth below are our contractual obligations and other commercial commitments over the medium term as of December 31, 20062007 (in thousands of U.S. dollars):
Payments Due by Period | Payments Due by Period | ||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Contractual Obligations | Total | Less than 1 year | 1- 3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 years | Contractual Obligations | Total | Less than 1 year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 years | ||||||||||||
Operating Leases | 20,350 | 9,768 | 7,689 | 2,893 | 28,033 | 11,429 | 14,856 | 1,748 | |||||||||||||||
Unconditional Purchase Obligations | 6,700 | 3,801 | 3,801 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Severance Pay* | 16,431 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Uncertain Income Tax Positions** | 14,919 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Contractual Cash Obligations | 27,050 | 16,468 | 7,689 | 2,893 | 63,184 | 15,230 | 14,856 | 1,748 |
Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period | |||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Other Commercial Commitments | Total Amounts Committed | Less than 1 year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 years | ||||||||||||
Standby Letters of Credit | 2,000 | 2,000 | |||||||||||||||
Guarantees - continuing operations | 10,857 | 6,110 | 3,952 | 214 | 581 | ||||||||||||
Total Commercial Commitments | 12,857 | 8,110 | 3,952 | 214 | 581 |
Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Other Commercial Commitments | Total Amounts Committed | Less than 1 year | 1- 3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 years |
Standby Letters of Credit | 2,000 | 2,000 | |||
Guarantees - continuing operations | 4,162 | 2,427 | 565 | 518 | 652 |
Total Commercial Commitments | 6,162 | 4,427 | 565 | 518 | 652 |
* | Severance pay relates to accrued obligation to employees as required under the labor laws. These obligation are payable only upon termination, retirement or death of the respective employee |
** | Uncertain income tax positions under FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), are due upon settlement and we are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of settlement. See Note 12(h) of our Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding our liability under FIN No. 48. |
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For information on the market risks relating to our operations, please see Item 11, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” in this annual report.
Effective January 1,In June 2006, we adopted the fair valueFinancial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN No. 48”). FIN No. 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“FAS 109”). This interpretation prescribes a minimum recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), using the modified prospective transition method. Under that transition method, compensation costthreshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the year ended December 31, 2006, includes: (a) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested asfinancial statements. FIN No. 48 also provides guidance on derecognition of tax positions, classification on the balance sheet, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. We adopted FIN No. 48 effective January 1, 2006, based on2007. FIN No. 48 requires significant judgment in determining what constitutes an individual tax position as well as assessing the grant date fair value estimatedoutcome of each tax position. Changes in accordance withjudgment as to recognition or measurement of tax positions can materially affect the originalestimate of the effective tax rate and consequently, affect our operating results.
We have have decided to classify interest as financial expenses and penalties as general and administrative expenses. Our policy for interest and penalties related to income tax exposures was not impacted as a result of the adoption of the recognition and measurement provisions of SFASFIN No. 123, and (b) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). Results for prior periods have not been restated.
We recognize compensation expenses for the value of our awards, which have graded vesting, based on the accelerated attribution method over the requisite service period of each of the awards, net of estimated forfeitures. Estimated forfeitures are based on actual historical pre-vesting forfeitures.48.
As a result of adopting SFASthe implementation of FIN No. 123(R) on48, the Company recognized a $0.8 million decrease in liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as an increase to the January 1, 2006, our income before taxes on income and net income for the year ended December 31, 2006, is approximately $12,571 thousands and $10,424 thousands lower, respectively, than if we had continued to account for stock-based compensation under APB 25. Basic and diluted net earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2006 are $0.21 and $0.20 lower, respectively, than if we had continued to account for stock-based compensation under APB 25.
We estimate the fair value2007 balance of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. The option-pricing model requires a number of assumptions, of which the most significant are the expected stock price volatility and the expected option term. Expected volatility was calculated based upon actual historical stock price movements. The expected term of options granted is derived from the output of the option valuation model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield from U.S. Federal Reserve zero-coupon bonds with an equivalent term. The Company has historically not paid dividends and has no foreseeable plans to pay dividends.retained earnings.
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In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 creates a single model to address uncertainty in tax positions. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for income taxes by prescribing the minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. In addition, FIN 48 clearly scopes out income taxes from Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies.” FIN 48 utilizes a two-step approach for evaluating tax positions. Recognition (step one) occurs when an enterprise concludes that a tax position, based solely on its technical merits, is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination. Measurement (step two) is only addressed if step one has been satisfied (i.e., the position is more-likely-than-not to be sustained). FIN 48 applies to all tax positions related to income taxes subject to Financial Accounting Standards Board SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This includes tax positions considered to be “routine” as well as those with a high degree of uncertainty. Derecognition of a tax position that was previously recognized would occur when a company subsequently determines that a tax position no longer meets the more-likely-than-not threshold of being sustained. FIN 48 specifically prohibits the use of a valuation allowance as a substitute for derecognition of tax positions. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, we increased our retained earnings as of January 1, 2007 by approximately $800,000.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This standard defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Management believes this standard will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which permits companies to choose to measure certain financial instruments and other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We will adopt SFAS No. 159 no later than January 1, 2008. We havedo not yet determined the effectexpect that the adoption of SFAS No. 159 to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
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In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS No. 141R”). SFAS No. 141R establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, any non controlling interest in the acquiree and the goodwill acquired. SFAS 141R also establishes disclosure requirements to enable the evaluation of the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS No. 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. We believe that the adoption of SFAS No. 141R could have an impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements; however, the impact would depend on the nature, terms and magnitude of acquisitions we consummate in the future.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51”(“SFAS No. 160”). SFAS No. 160 establishes accounting and reporting standards that require that the ownership interests in subsidiaries held by parties other than the parent be clearly identified, labeled, and presented in the consolidated statement of financial position within equity, but separate from the parent’s equity; the amount of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest be clearly identified and presented on the face of the consolidated statement of income; and changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling financial interest in its subsidiary be accounted for consistently. SFAS No. 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. We do not expect thatthe adoption of SFAS No. 160 will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Item 6. | Directors, Senior Management and Employees. |
The following table sets forth, as of June 13, 2007,March 25, 2008, the name, age and position of each of our directors and executive officers:
Name | Age | Position | |
---|---|---|---|
Ron Gutler(1)(2) | Chairman of the Board of Directors | ||
Joseph Atsmon(1)(3) | Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors | ||
Rimon Ben-Shaoul(2) | Director | ||
Yoseph Dauber(2)(3) | Director | ||
Dan Falk(1)(2)(3)(4) | Director | ||
John Hughes(2) | 56 | Director | |
Yocheved Dvir(1)(3)(4) | 55 | Director | |
Haim Shani | Chief Executive Officer | ||
Dr. Shlomo Shamir | President | ||
Moshe Egert | 43 | Corporate Vice President & President, Enterprise Group | |
Israel Livnat | Corporate Vice President & President, Security Group | ||
39 | Chief Executive Officer, Actimize Ltd. | ||
Dafna Gruber | 43 | Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |
Yechiam Cohen | Corporate Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary | ||
Eran Porat | Corporate Vice President, Finance | ||
Eran Liron | Corporate Vice President, Business Development | ||
36 | Corporate Vice President, Strategy & | ||
Eran Gorev | 42 | President and Chief Executive Officer, NICE Systems Inc. | |
Tamir Ginat | President, EMEA | ||
Doron Ben Sira | 48 | President, Nice APAC | |
(1) Member of the Audit Committee.(2) Member of the Compensation Committee.(3) Member of the Internal Audit Committee.
(1) Member of the Audit Committee. (2) Member of the Compensation Committee. (3) Member of the Internal Audit Committee. (4) Outside Director. See Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees–Board Practices - Outside Directors.” |
On June 18, 2007, David Kostman resigned from our board of directors. Our board of directors now consists of seven directors, each of whom is independent.
Effective January 1, 2008, Ms. Yocheved Dvir was elected as a statutory outside director. Dr. Leora Meridor completed her second term as a statutory outside director on January 1, 2008, and did not seek re-nomination for an additional term. See Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees–Board Practices– Outside Directors.”(5) Departing Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (See below).(6) Incoming Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (See below).(7) Corporate Vice President, Strategic Alliances and Business Development through December 31, 2006 (see below).
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Set forth below is a biographical summary of each of the above-named directors and executive officers of NICE. Each of our directors qualifies as an independent director under the NASDAQ rules.
As previously disclosed, Dafna Gruber will be joining NICE as Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Ran Oz, our departing Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has agreed to remain with us to ensure a smooth transition of his responsibilities to Ms. Gruber and is performing the function of CFO at the time of the filing of this annual report. Ms. Gruber is expected to assume the CFO responsibilities during the second quarter of 2007.77
Ron Gutler has served as one of our directors since May 2001 and Chairman of the Board since May 2002. Mr. Gutler is currently the Chairman of G.J.E. 121 Promoting Investment Ltd., a real estate investment company, a director of Psagot Ofek-Fund Management and Eshel Shekel Bonds Ltd. and a member of the Advisory Board of Poalim Real Estate (part of Poalim Capital Market Group). and a director of Psagot Ofek Investment House and Eshel Shekel Bonds Ltd. Between 2000 and 2002, he managed the Blue Border Horizon Fund, a global macro fund. Mr. Gutler is a former Managing Director and a Partner of Bankers Trust Company (currently part of Deutsche Bank). Between 1987 and 1999, he held various positions with Bankers Trust.Trust, where Mr. Gutler headed its trading and sales activities in Asia, South America and Emerging Europe. He also established and headed the Israeli office of Bankers Trust. Mr. Gutler holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and International Relations and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, both from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
Joseph Atsmon has served as one of our directors since September 2001 and Vice-Chairman of the Board since May 2002. Mr. Atsmon currently serves as a director of Ceragon Networks Ltd., Radvision Ltd. and Vocaltec Communications Ltd. From 1995 tountil 2000, Mr. Atsmon served as Chief Executive Officer of Teledata Communications Ltd., a public company acquired by ADC Telecommunications Inc. in 1998. Mr. Atsmon had a twenty-year career with Tadiran Ltd. In his last role at Tadiran Ltd., Mr. Atsmon served as Corporate Vice PresidentVP for Business Development.business development. Prior to that, he served as President of various of its military communications divisions. Mr. Atsmon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Technion–Technion – Israel Institute of Technology.
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Rimon Ben-Shaoul has served as one of our directors since September 2001. Since 2001, Mr. Ben-Shaoul has served as Co-Chairman, President, and Chief Executive OfficerCEO of Koonras Technologies Ltd., a technology investment company controlled by Poalim Investments Ltd., a large Israeli holding company. Mr. Ben-Shaoul also serves as Chairman of Nipson Digital Printing Systems PLC and as a director of Dor Chemicals Ltd., MIND C.T.I. Ltd., BVR Systems Ltd., Cimatron Ltd. and several private companies. In addition, he is the President and Chief Executive OfficerCEO of Polar Communications Ltd., which manages media and communications investments. Between 1997 and 2001, Mr. Ben-Shaoul was the President and Chief Executive OfficerCEO of Clal Industries and Investments Ltd., one of the largest holding companies in Israel with substantial holdings in the high tech industry. During that time, Mr. Ben-Shaoul also served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Clal Electronics Industries Ltd., Scitex Corporation Ltd., and various other companies within the Clal group.Group. Mr. Ben-Shaoul also served as a director of ECI Telecom Ltd., Fundtech Ltd., Creo Products, Inc. and Nova Measuring Instruments Ltd. From 1985 to 1997, Mr. Ben-Shaoul was President Chief Executive Officerand CEO of Clal Insurance Company Ltd. and a director of Clal Insurance Company Ltd.the company and its various subsidiaries. Mr. Ben-Shaoul holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Statistics and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, both from Tel AvivTel-Aviv University.
Yoseph Dauber has served as one of our directors since April 2002. Mr. Dauber has served in various senior positions at Bank Hapoalim since 1973. Until June 2002, heMr. Dauber was Deputy Chairman of the Board of Management and jointJoint Managing Director of Bank Hapoalim and was responsible for the commercial division of the bank. BetweenFrom 1994 and 1996 and untilto June 2002, Mr. Dauber served as Chairman of the Isracard Group. Mr. Dauber also served as Chairman of Poalim American Express and of the Isracard Group.from 1995 to July 2002. From 2002 to 2003, he served as Vice Chairman of the Israel Maritime Bank Ltd. HeMr. Dauber currently serves as a directormember of the Board of Bank Hapoalim. He also serves as a director of Clal Insurance HoldingHoldings Ltd., Vocaltec Communications Ltd., Lodzia Rotex Ltd., Pachmas Industries Ltd., Vocaltec Communications Ltd., Orbit/FR Inc. and Afcon Industries Ltd. and Orbit/FR Inc. Mr. Dauber holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Statistics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and a MastersMaster’s degree in Law from Bar Ilan University.
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Dan Falk has served as one of our statutory outside directors since January 2002. Mr. Falk also serves as a director of Orbotech Ltd., Attunity Ltd., Orad Hi Tech Systems Ltd. (Chairman), Netafim Ltd., Plastopil Ltd., Nova Measuring Instruments Ltd., ClickSoftware Technologies Ltd., Dmatek Ltd., Jacada Ltd., Poalim Ventures 1 Ltd. and Ormat Technology Inc.2001. From 1999 to 2000, Mr. Falk was President and Chief Operating Officer of Sapiens International Corporation N.V. From 1985 to 1999, Mr. Falk served in various positions in Orbotech Ltd., the last of which were Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President. From 1973 to 1985, he served in several executive positions in the Israel Discount Bank. Mr. Falk serves on the board of directors of Orad Hi-Tech Systems Ltd. (where he is Chairman), Orbotech Ltd., Ormat Technologies Inc., Clicksoftware Technologies Ltd., Jacada Ltd., Attunity Ltd., Nova Measuring Systems Ltd., Dmateck Ltd., AVT Ltd., Amiad Filteration Systems Ltd. and Plastopil Ltd. Mr. Falk holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Hebrew University, in Jerusalem. Mr. Falk qualifies as an outside director under Israeli law.
John Hughes has served as one of our directors since November, 2002. Mr. Hughes is currently the Non-Executive Chairman of Intec Telecom Systems plc and ExecutiveTelecity Group plc and Non-Executive Deputy Chairman of Parity Group plc. He is also a director of Barco N.V., an equipment manufacturer in Belgium. From June 1st, 2007, he will also commence serving as a director of Spectris plc, a London FTSE listed entity. From December 2000 to July 2004, he held senior executive positions at Thales Group, most recently as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive OfficerCEO of all civil activities for the group.Group. From 1997 to 2000, he held various positions with Lucent Technologies, including President of its GSM/UMTS division. From 1991 to 1997, Mr. Hughes served as Director of Convex Global Field Operations within the Hewlett Packard Company. Prior to that, Mr. Hughes held various positions with UK and US companies. Mr. Hughes also serves as Non-Executive Director of Spectris plc and Barco N.V. Mr. Hughes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Hertfordshire.
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David KostmanYocheved Dvir has served as one of our statutory outside directors since January 2000. Mr. Kostman is currently a Managing Director in the investment banking division of Lehman Brothers Inc. where he is responsible for its Global Internet Investment Banking Group. Prior to rejoining Lehman Brothers in August 2006, Mr. Kostman2008. Since 2000, Ms. Dvir has served as a strategic advisor in business development affairs to multiple companies and initiatives that were being founded. She serves on the Chief Executive Officerboards of Delta Galil USA Inc., a subsidiary of Delta GalilStrauss Industries Ltd. and Phoenix Co. Until recently, she served on the boards of Trendline Business Information & Communications Ltd., Menorah Insurance Company Ltd., Israel Corporation Ltd. and ECI Telecom Ltd. Between 1990 and 2000, Ms. Dvir served as Senior VP of the Migdal Group. Ms. Dvir joined the Migdal Group in 1981 and, until late 2000, held a NASDAQ-listed apparel manufacturer from April 2005 until July 2006. From April 2003 to April 2005, he was Chief Operating Officernumber of Delta Galil USA. From 2000 to 2002 he wassenior financial and managerial positions, including Head of the Chief Operating OfficerGroup’s Economics Department (1986-1988), Head of VerticalNet, Inc.the Group’s Corporate Office (1989-1992), a NASDAQ-listed software company. Prior thereto, Mr. Kostman was a Managing Director inHead of the investment banking divisionGroup’s General Insurance Division and Corporate Office (1993-1997), Group CFO (1997-1999), Head of Lehman Brothers Inc., which he joined in 1994. Mr. Kostmanthe Group’s Strategic Development Division and Marketing Array and Risk Manager (2000). Ms. Dvir holds a Bachelor’s degree in LawEconomics and Statistics from Tel Avivthe University of Haifa and a Master’sfull second degree study in Business Administration from INSEAD, France.
Dr. Leora (Rubin) Meridor has served as one of our directors since January 2002. Since 2001, Dr. Meridor has been a financial and business consultant. From 2001 to 2005, she served as Chair of Bezeq International and Walla Telecommunication. From 2001 to 2004, Dr. Meridor served as Chair of Poalim Capital Markets. From 1996 to 2000, she served as Senior Vice President, Head of the Credit and Risk Management Division of the First International Bank of Israel. From 1983 to 1996, Dr. Meridor held various positions in the Bank of Israel, the last of which was Head of the Research Department. Dr. Meridor is a director of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Isrotel Ltd., G.J.E. 121 Promoting Investment Ltd., Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., Alrov Israel Ltd. and the Company for Retrieving Holocaust Survivors’ Assets. She has held various teaching positions with the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Physics, a Master’s degree in Mathematics and a Doctoral degree in EconomicsStatistics from the Hebrew University inof Jerusalem. She qualifies as an outside director under Israeli law.
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Haim Shani has served as our Chief Executive Officer since January 2001. He also served as our President from January 2001 to April 2005 and as a director from January 2001 to September 2005. From 1998 to 2000, he served as General Manager of the Israeli office of Applied Materials Inc., where he headed the process diagnostic and control business group formed following the acquisition by Applied Materials of Opal Ltd. and Orbot Instruments, Ltd. Prior thereto, Mr. Shani held various management positions at Orbotech Ltd. From 1995 to 1998, he served as Corporate Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, from 1993 to 1995, he served as President of Orbotech’s subsidiary in Asia Pacific, based in Hong Kong, and from 1992 to 1993, he served as President of Orbotech Europe, based in Brussels. From 1982 to 1992, Mr. Shani held various management positions at Scitex Corporation and IBM Israel. Mr. Shani holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Management engineering from the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from INSEAD, France.
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Dr. Shlomo Shamir has served as our President since March 2005. From April 2001 to April 2005, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of NICE Systems Inc., our wholly owned subsidiary and corporate headquarters in North America. From 2000 to April 2001, Dr. Shamir served as President and Chief Executive Officer of CreoScitex America, Inc. From 1997 to 2000, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Scitex America Corp. and from 1994 to 1997, he served as Scitex Ltd.‘s Corporate Vice President of Operations. Prior to 1994, Dr. Shamir served in the Israel Defense Force (IDF) where he attained the rank of Brigadier General. Dr. Shamir built and led the planning division in the IDF headquarters and served as Israel’s military attaché to Germany. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in physics from the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology and Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Engineering and Economic Systems from Stanford University, California.
Moshe Egert has served as the President of the newly-formed NICE Enterprise Group since February 1, 2008. Prior to joining NICE, Mr. Egert spent two years as an active board member and strategic consultant with several software companies, specializing in strategic planning, sales and marketing, and business development. Between 1996 and 2005, Mr. Egert served as the President of the EMEA operation for Mercury Interactive Corp. (now HP Mercury), and between 1990 and 1996, he held a variety of business and technical positions at Mercury. . Moshe Egert holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Tel Aviv University.
Israel Livnathas served as our Corporate Vice President & President of the Security Group since May 2006. Prior to joining NICE, he served since 2001 as the President and CEO of Elta Systems Ltd. Prior to his last position as the President of Elta Systems, Mr. Livnat was heading a division in the Israeli Aircraft Industries, leading the development of the Arrow weapons system. Before that he was VP Engineering in the same division in the Israeli Aircraft Industries, and director for hardware engineering in Daisy Systems Mountain View California, leading state-of-the-art developments in the hardware and software of large computer-embedded systems. Mr. Livnat holds a B.Sc in Electrical Engineering from the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, and an Executive MBA from Stanford University California. He was awarded the prestigious Israeli Industry Prize in 2004.
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Ran OzDavid Sosna hasis the Chief Executive Officer and a co-founder of Actimize Ltd., a NICE company. Mr. Sosna joined the NICE management team in 2007, when Actimize was acquired by NICE. Prior to serving as CEO of Actimize, Mr. Sosna served as our Corporateits Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2004. As described above,of New Business Development. Before Actimize, Mr. Oz agreed to continue to perform the function of CFO of NICE until Dafna Gruber assumes the CFO responsibilities. Since February 2007,Sosna founded Gilon Information Systems, which grew into Israel’s largest business intelligence company. Mr. Oz also serves as Deputy CEO and Chief Financial Officer of BEZEQ The Israel Telecommunications Corp. Ltd. Mr. Oz also serves as a director of several private companies. From 2001 to 2004, Mr. Oz worked for Ceragon Networks Ltd., an international fixed wireless company, where he was Chief Financial Officer. From 1995 to 2001, he worked for Jacada Ltd., an international software company, where he held a variety of positions in finance and operations, most recently as General Manager of the parent company and Corporate Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Oz is a certified public accountant andSosna holds a Bachelor’s degree in AccountingIndustrial Engineering and Economics and a Master’s degree in Business Administration and economicsManagement, from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.Ben-Gurion University.
Dafna Gruber is expected to assume the responsibilities ofhas served as our Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer during the second quarter of 2007, as described above.since June 2007. From 2001 until the second quarter ofMay 2007, she served as the Chief Financial Officer of Alvarion Ltd., a NASDAQ-listed company that provides innovative wireless network solutions. From 1997 to 2001, Ms. Gruber was the Chief Financial Officer of BreezeCOM Ltd., which was merged with Floware Wireless Systems Ltd. to create Alvarion, prior to which she was the controller of BreezeCOM from 1996 to 1997. From 1993 to 1996 Ms. Gruber was a Controllercontroller at Lannet Data Communications Ltd., subsequently acquired by Lucent Technologies Inc. Ms. Gruber is a certified public accountant and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Economics from Tel Aviv University.
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Yechiam Cohen has served as our Corporate Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary since 2005. From 1996 to 2004, he served as General Counsel of Amdocs, a leading provider of billing and CRM software solutions to the telecommunications industry. Before joining Amdocs, Mr. Cohen was a partner in the Tel Aviv law firm of Dan Cohen, Spigelman & Company. From 1987 to 1990, he was an associate with the New York law firm of Dornbush, Mensch, Mandelstam and Schaeffer. Mr. Cohen served as a law clerk to Justice Beijski of the Supreme Court of Israel in Jerusalem. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Hebrew University School of Law and is admitted to practice law in Israel and New York.
Eran Porat has served as our Corporate Vice President, Finance since 2004. From March 2000 to 2004, he served as our Corporate Controller. From 1997 to February 2000, Mr. Porat served as Corporate Controller of Tecnomatix Technologies Ltd. From 1996 to 1997, he served as Corporate Controller of Nechushtan Elevators Ltd. Mr. Porat is a certified public accountant and holds a Bachelor’s degree in economics and accounting from Tel Aviv University.
Eran Liron has served as our Corporate Vice President, Business Development since February 2006. From 2004 he served as Director of Corporate Development at Mercury Interactive Corporation, a software company, and prior thereto he held several business development positions at Mercury Interactive. Before joining Mercury, Mr. Liron served in several marketing roles at software startups and at Tower Semiconductor. Mr. Liron holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and a doctorateDoctorate in Business from the Stanford Graduate School of Business in California.
Zvi BaumDan Yalon has served as our Corporate Vice PresidentVP Strategy and President, Enterprise Interaction SolutionsStrategic Alliances since April 2005. He previously served inNovember 2007. From 2003 to 2007, Mr. Yalon held several business development positions at Amdocs Ltd., the positionslast of General Manager of the Product Division, Director of Product Management in the EIS Division and Corporate Vice President of Marketing. Before joining us in January 2002, Mr. Baum servedwhich was as the Managing DirectorHead of Call Vision Israel Ltd.,Strategy and New Business Initiatives, where he established the company’s strategic planning and execution capabilities, translating corporate vision and strategic planning into actionable growth initiatives. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Yalon was a company that specialized in the development of advanced web-based quality monitoring solutions for call centers. Prior thereto, he served as the Vice President of International Salesstrategy consultant with U.S.-based firm Monitor Company and Marketing at STS Software Systems, which developed recording solutions and was acquired by us at the end of 1999. From 1987 to 1998,with Israeli firm P.O.C Management Consulting. Mr. Baum worked for a number of American and European companies in several areas, including technical management, marketing and channel management. Mr. BaumYalon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the Technion–Israel Institute of TechnologyLaw and a Master’sBachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a Master’s degree in Business Administration,management, both from the Hebrew University of California in Los Angeles.Jerusalem.
Debra May has served since July 2003 as President of IEX Corporation, which was acquired by us in July 2006. From the founding of IEX in 1988 until 2003, she served as Vice President of the Contact Center division of IEX. Prior to that, she held technical and management positions at Texas Instruments Inc., Datapoint Inc. and Teknekron Infoswitch Corporation. Ms. May holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science from Southern Illinois University.
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Eran Gorev has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of NICE Systems Inc. since March 2005. From 2002 to 2004, Mr. Gorev was President of the North America – Major Clients division at Amdocs.Amdocs Ltd. From 2000 to 2002, he served as Corporate Vice President and Head of Worldwide Sales at Amdocs. Prior thereto, Mr. Gorev held various marketing and sales management positions in the information technology industry. Mr. Gorev holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Tel Aviv University and a joint Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management of Northwestern University and the Leon Recanati Graduate School of Business Administration of Tel Aviv University.
Tamir Ginat has served as President of EMEA since July 2005. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Ginat served as the General Manager of NICE UK and in 2003 was promoted to Vice President Sales, U.K. & Ireland, a position he held until June 2005. Prior thereto, Mr. Ginat held various sales positions in our company and before joining us in 1995, he served for five years within the International Marketing Department of ISCAR. Mr. Ginat holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business from Haifa University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Heriot Watt University.
Doron Ben-Sira has served as President of NICE APAC Ltd. since May 2002. Prior thereto, he was the vice president of the assembly division of Orbotech Asia Pacific, responsible for all electronic assembly solutions sold to Asian customers. From 1996 to 1998, Mr. Ben-Sira was the Eastern European regional director for Cisco Systems and also served as the Eastern European and Middle Eastern channel director for that company. Mr. Ben-Sira also held management positions in Siemens Data Communication (Germany) and in Mashov Computers (Israel). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management and Master’s degree in Business Administration, both from Tel Aviv University.
Koby Huberman served as one of our Corporate Vice Presidents from January 2000 to December 2006, most recently as Corporate Vice President, Business Development and Strategic Planning. Since January 1, 2007 and until the end of 2007, Mr. Huberman is serving as a strategic adviser to NICE. Mr. Huberman has also recently founded and is the CEO of Strategic Landscapes Ltd., an Israeli-based executive strategic consulting company. From 1998 to January 2000, Mr. Huberman served as Vice President of Marketing for the Enterprise Internetworking Systems Group of Lucent Technologies Ltd. and, from 1995 to 1998, he was Vice President of Global Marketing and Business Development for Lannet Data Communications Ltd., which was acquired by Lucent in 1998. Prior thereto, Mr. Huberman was the Managing Director of ServiceSoft Europe, a pan-European vendor of artificial intelligence and knowledge-based software for call center and customer service applications. Mr. Huberman serves voluntarily as chairman and board member of several non-profit organizations in the field of education and civil society community development. Mr. Huberman holds an Executive Master in Philosophy from Tel-Aviv University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business Administration from the Leon Recanati Graduate School of Business Administration of Tel Aviv University.
There are no family relationships between any of the directors or executive officers named above.
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The aggregate compensation paid to or accrued on behalf of all our directors and executive officers as a group of 21 persons during 20062007 consisted of approximately $ 4.7$5.1 million in salary, fees, bonus, commissions and directors’ fees and approximately $0.1 million in amounts set aside or accrued to provide pension, retirement or similar benefits, but excluding amounts we expended for automobiles made available to our officers, expenses (including business travel, professional and business association dues and expenses) reimbursed to our officers and other fringe benefits commonly reimbursed or paid by companies in Israel.
At our 2006 annual general meeting of shareholders, our shareholders approved the annual grant of options to purchase 5,000 ordinary shares to each of our non-executive directors (excluding statutory Outside Directors) and the annual grant of options to purchase 15,000 ordinary shares to our Chairman of the Board, to be granted on the date of each annual general meeting from 2006 through 2010. The exercise price per share of the options will be equal to the closing price per share of ordinary shares on the NASDAQ Stock Market on the trading day immediately preceding the applicable date of grant. These options will fully vest following the lapse of twelve (12) months from the applicable date of grant and will expire on the sixth anniversary of the applicable date of grant. They will be subject to the terms of our 2003 Stock Option Plan.
During 2006,2007, our officers and directors received, in the aggregate, options and restricted shares with respect to purchase up to 580,000675,837 ordinary shares under our 2003 Stock Option Plan.equity based compensation plans. These options and restricted shares have an average exercise price of $25.89$28.20 and the options will expire six years after the date the options were granted.
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Compensation and reimbursement for Outside Directorsoutside directors (as described below) is statutorily determined pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, 5759–1999, or the Companies Law. The statutory rates for Outside Directors are approximatelyIn 2007 we paid our outside directors annual fees in the aggregate amount of NIS 47,100 per annum93,132 and approximatelymeeting attendance fees in the aggregate amount of NIS 1,800 per meeting.73,970, including meetings of committees of the board of directors. We pay each of our directors who is not an Outside Directoroutside director an annual fee of $15,000 and a meeting attendance fee of $600, including for meetings of committees of the board of directors.directors as well as an annual grant of options to purchase 5,000 of our ordinary shares. We pay each member of our audit committee, excluding Outside Directors,outside directors, an additional annual fee of $2,500. In addition, during 2007, our Chairman of the Board received a special annual fee in the amount of $25,000.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Israeli Companies Law, remuneration of our directors generally requires shareholder approval. At our 2007 annual general meeting of shareholders, our shareholders approved, that as of January 1, 2008, our outside directors are entitled to compensation equal to that granted to the other members of the board of directors as detailed above (excluding those that perform special functions, such as the Chairman of the board of directors). Also, at our 2007 annual general meeting of shareholders, our shareholders approved an increase of the special annual fee paid to the Chairman of the Board by $11,000 so that commencing January 1, 2007,2008, our Chairman of the Board receives a special annual fee in the amount of $25,000.$36,000.
Corporate Governance Practices
We are incorporated in Israel and therefore are subject to various corporate governance practices under the Israeli Companies Law, relating to such matters as outside directors, the audit committee, the internal auditor and approvals of interested party transactions. These matters are in addition to the ongoing listing conditions of the NASDAQ and other relevant provisions of U.S. securities laws. Under the NASDAQ rules, a foreign private issuer may generally follow its home country rules of corporate governance in lieu of the comparable NASDAQ requirements, except for certain matters such as composition and responsibilities of the audit committee and the independence of its members. We follow the Israeli Companies Law, the relevant provisions of which are summarized in this annual report, rather than comply with the NASDAQ requirements relating to the quorum for shareholder meetings, shareholder approval with respect to issuance of securities under equity based compensation plans and sending annual reports to shareholders. According to Israeli law, equity based compensation plans, as well as their underlying pool, do not require shareholders’ approval.
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General Board Practices
Our articles of association provide that the number of directors serving on the board shall be not less than three but shall not exceed thirteen. Our directors, other than outside directors, are elected at the annual shareholders meeting to serve until the next annual meeting or until their earlier death, resignation, bankruptcy, incapacity or removal by an extraordinary resolution of the general shareholders meeting. Directors may be re-elected at each annual shareholders meeting. The board may appoint additional directors (whether to fill a vacancy or create new directorships) to serve until the next annual shareholders meeting, provided, however, that the board shall have no obligation to fill any vacancy unless the number of directors is less than three.
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The board may, subject to the provisions of the Companies Law, appoint a committee of the board and delegate to such committee all or any of the powers of the board as it deems appropriate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the board may, at any time, amend, restate or cancel the delegation of any of its powers to any of its committees. The board has appointed an internal audit committee, as required under the Companies Law, that has three members, an audit committee that currently has four members and a compensation committee that has four members. We do not have, nor do our subsidiaries have, any directors’ service contracts granting to the directors any benefits upon termination of their employment.
Outside Directors
Under the Companies Law, companies incorporated under the laws of Israel whose shares have been offered to the public in or outside of Israel are required to appoint at least two “outside” directors.
To qualify as an outside director, an individual or his or her relative, partner, employer or any entity under his or her control, may not have as of the date of appointment as an outside director, and may not have had during the previous two years, any affiliation with the company, with any entity controlling the company on the date of the appointment or with any entity whose controlling shareholder, on the date of the appointment or during the previous two years, is the company or an entity controlling the company. In general, the term “affiliation” includes:
— | an employment relationship; |
— | a business or professional relationship maintained on a regular basis; |
— | control; and |
— | service as an office holder. |
No person may serve as an outside director if the person’s position or other activities create, or may create, a conflict of interest with the person’s responsibilities as an outside director or may otherwise interfere with the person’s ability to serve as an outside director.
Outside directors are to be elected by a majority vote at a shareholders’ meeting, provided that either:
— | the majority of shares voted at the meeting shall include at least one-third of the shares of non-controlling shareholders present at the meeting and voting on the matter (without taking into account the votes of the abstaining shareholders); or |
— | the total number of shares of non-controlling shareholders voted against the election of the outside directors does not exceed one percent of the aggregate voting rights in the company. |
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The term of an outside director is three years and may be extended for an additional term of three years. Thereafter, he or she may be reelected by our shareholders for additional periods of up to three years each only if the audit committee and the board of directors confirm that, in light of the outside director’s expertise and special contribution to the work of the board of directors and its committees, the reelection for such additional period is beneficial to the company. Each committee of a company’s board of directors which is empowered to exercise any of the board’s powers is required to include at least one outside director.
Our outside directors wereMr. Dan Falk was elected for a secondthird term as an outside director and Ms. Yocheved Dvir was elected as an outside director for the first time at our Annual General Meeting held on October 19, 2004.December 24, 2007, and their election became effective as of January 1, 2008. An outside director is entitled to compensation as provided in regulations adopted under the Companies Law and is otherwise prohibited from receiving any other compensation, directly or indirectly, from the company. In accordance with such regulations, at our 2007 annual general meeting of shareholders, our shareholders approved that our outside directors are to receive compensation equal to that paid to the other members of the board of directors. For further information, please see Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees–Compensation” in this annual report.
Financial and Accounting Expertise
Pursuant to new provisions of the Companies Law effective from April 2006, our board of directors has determined that at least one member of our board of directors must be an “accounting and financial expert.” The Companies Law requires that all outside directors must be “professionally qualified.” Under the NASDAQ rules, each member of our audit committee must be financially literate and at least one of the members must have experience or background that results in such member’s financial sophistication. Our board of directors has determined that Dan Falk is an “accounting and financial expert” for purposes of the Companies Law and is financially sophisticated for purposes of the NASDAQ rules. See also Item 16A, “Audit Committee Financial Expert” in this annual report.
Independent Directors
Under the rules of the NASDAQ Global Select Market, a majority of our directors are required to be “independent” as defined in NASDAQ’s rules. All of our directors satisfy the respective independence requirements of NASDAQ.
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Audit Committee
The NASDAQ rules also require that the audit committee of a listed company must be composed of at least three directors, each of whom is (i) independent; (ii) does not receive any compensation (except for board fees) from the company; (iii) is not an affiliated person of the company or any subsidiary; and (iv) has not participated in the preparation of the company’s (or a current subsidiary’s) financial statements during the past three years. All of the current members of our audit committee (presently comprised of Joseph Atsmon (Chairman), Ron Gutler, Dan Falk and Leora Meridor)Yocheved Dvir) meet the NASDAQ standards described above.
Our audit committee has adopted a charter specifying the committee’s purpose and outlining its duties and responsibilities which include, among other things: (i) appointing, retaining and compensating the company’s independent auditor, subject to shareholder approval, and (ii) pre-approving all services of the independent auditor. The audit committee must review and approve all related party transactions. Our audit committee is also authorized to act as our “qualified legal compliance committee.” As such, our audit committee will be responsible for investigating reports made by attorneys appearing and practicing before the SEC in representing us, of perceived material violations of U.S. federal or state securities laws, breaches of fiduciary duty or similar material violations of U.S. law by us or any of our agents.
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We believe we currently meet the applicable NASDAQ requirements and we intend to continue to take all actions as may be necessary for us to maintain our compliance with applicable NASDAQ requirements.
Internal Audit Committee
The Companies Law requires public companies to appoint an internal audit committee. The role of the internal audit committee under the Companies Law is to examine flaws in the management of the company’s business in consultation with the internal auditors and the independent accountants, and to propose remedial measures to the board. The internal audit committee also reviews interested party transactions for approval as required by law. Under the Companies Law, an internal audit committee must consist of at least three directors, including all of the outside directors. The chairman of the board of directors, any director employed by or otherwise providing services to the company on a regular basis, and a controlling shareholder or any relative of a controlling shareholder, may not be a member of the internal audit committee. All of the current members of our internal audit committee (presently comprised of Leora Meridor (Chairperson)Joseph Dauber (Chairman), Joseph Atsmon, Dan Falk and Joseph Dauber)Yocheved Dvir) meet these qualifications.
Internal Auditor
Under the Companies Law, the board of directors must appoint an internal auditor, proposed by the internal audit committee. The role of the internal auditor is to examine, among other matters, whether the company’s activities comply with the law and orderly business procedure. Under the Companies Law, the internal auditor may be an employee of the company but may not be an interested party or office holder, or a relative of any interested party or office holder, and may not be a member of the company’s independent accounting firm or its representative. We have appointed an internal auditor in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Law.
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Compensation Committee
As required by NASDAQ rules, our compensation committee approves the compensation of our executive officers. The compensation of our chief executive officer also requires the approval of our board of directors under the Companies Law. The compensation committee is also authorized to approve the grant of stock options and other securities to eligible grantees under our benefit plans pursuant to guidelines adopted by our board of directors. However, grants of stock options and other securities to our executive officers also require approval of our board of directors. The current members of this committee, each of whom satisfies the respective independence requirements of NASDAQ, are Messrs. Falk, who is the chairman, Ben Shaoul, Dauber, Gutler and Hughes.
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Nominations Committee
As required by NASDAQ rules, our nominations committee recommends candidates for election to our board of directors pursuant to a written charter. The current members of this committee, all of whom are independent directors, are Ron Gutler and Dan Falk.
At December 31, 2006,2007, we had approximately 1,7792,172 employees worldwide, which represented an increase of 25.6%22.1% from year-end 2005.2006.
The following table sets forth the number of our full-time employees at the end of each of the last three fiscal years as well as the main category of activity and geographic location of such employees:
At December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category of Activity | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | |||||||||
Operations | 105 | 104 | 116 | |||||||||
Customer Support | 466 | 620 | 724 | |||||||||
Sales & Marketing | 327 | 389 | 450 | |||||||||
Research & Development | 361 | 427 | 564 | |||||||||
General & Administrative | 157 | 239 | 318 | |||||||||
Total | 1,416 | 1,779 | 2,172 | |||||||||
Geographic Location | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Israel | 625 | 692 | 923 | |||||||||
North America | 526 | 722 | 811 | |||||||||
Europe | 195 | 269 | 301 | |||||||||
Asia Pacific | 70 | 96 | 137 | |||||||||
Total | 1,416 | 1,779 | 2,172 | |||||||||
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At December 31, | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category of Activity | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | |||||||||
Operations | 86 | 105 | 104 | |||||||||
Customer Support | 316 | 466 | 620 | |||||||||
Sales & Marketing | 261 | 327 | 389 | |||||||||
Research & Development | 273 | 361 | 427 | |||||||||
General & Administrative | 131 | 157 | 239 | |||||||||
Total | 1,067 | 1,416 | 1,779 | |||||||||
Geographic Location | ||||||||||||
Israel | 518 | 625 | 692 | |||||||||
North America | 339 | 526 | 722 | |||||||||
Europe | 179 | 195 | 269 | |||||||||
Asia Pacific | 31 | 70 | 96 | |||||||||
Total | 1,067 | 1,416 | 1,779 | |||||||||
We also utilize temporary employees in various activities. On average, we employed approximately 1615 temporary employees and obtained services from 78 contractor employeesapproximately 250 consultants (not included in the numbers set forth above) during 2006.2007.
Our future success will depend in part upon our ability to attract and retain highly skilled and qualified personnel. Although competition for such personnel in Israel is generally intense, we believe that adequate personnel resources are currently available in Israel to meet our requirements.
We are not a party to any collective bargaining agreement with our employees or with any labor organization. However, we are subject to certain labor related statutes, and to certain provisions of collective bargaining agreements between the Histadrut (General Federation of Labor in Israel) and the Coordinating Bureau of Economic Organizations (including the Industrialists’ Association of Israel) that are applicable to our Israeli employees by order of the Israeli Ministry of Labor and Welfare. These statutes and provisions principally concern the length of the work day and the work week, minimum wages for workers, insurance for work-related accidents, determination of severance pay and other conditions of employment. Furthermore, pursuant to such provisions, the wages of most of our Israeli employees are automatically adjusted based on changes in the Israeli consumer price index, or CPI. The amount and frequency of these adjustments are modified from time to time.
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Israeli law generally requires the payment by employers in Israel of severance pay upon the death of an employee, his retirement or upon termination of employment by the employer without due cause. We currently fund our ongoing severance obligations in Israel by making monthly payments to approved severance funds or insurance policies. Please see Note 2(r) to our consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition, according to the National Insurance Law, Israeli employers and employees are required to pay predetermined sums to the National Insurance Institute, an organization similar to the U.S. Social Security Administration. These contributions entitle the employees to benefits in periods of unemployment, work injury, maternity leave, disability, reserve military service and bankruptcy or winding-up of the employer. Since January 1, 1995, such amount also includes payments for national health insurance. The payments to the National Insurance Institute are equal to approximately 16.25%17% of an employee’s wages (up to a certain cap as determined from time to time by law), of which the employee contributes approximately 66% and the employer contributes approximately 34%.
In addition to our severance obligations for employees located in Israel, we pay severance benefits to our employees located elsewhere in accordance with the local laws and practices of the countries in which they are employed.
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Employment Agreements
We have employment agreements with our officers. Pursuant to these employment agreements, each party may terminate the employment for no cause by giving a 30, 60 or 90 day prior written notice (six months in the case of certain senior employees). In addition, we may terminate such agreement for cause with no prior notice. The agreements generally include non-competition and non-disclosure provisions, although the enforceability of non-competition provisions in employment agreements under Israeli law is very limited.
As of April 30, 2007,March 25, 2008, our directors and executive officers beneficially owned an aggregate of 406,710835,691 ordinary shares, or approximately 0.8%1.4% of our outstanding ordinary shares. This figure includes 773,188 unvested restricted shares which amount includesand options to purchase 405,930 ordinary shares that were vested on such date or that were scheduled to vest within the following 60 days. The restricted shares and options have an average exercise price of $17.56$19.15 per share and the options expire between 2008 and 2013. No individual director or executive officer beneficially owns 1% or more of our outstanding ordinary shares.
The following is a description of each of our option plans, including the amount of options currently outstanding and the weighted average exercise price.
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1995 Stock Option Plan
In 1995, we adopted the NICE-Systems Ltd. 1995 Stock Option Plan, or 1995 Plan, to attract, motivate and retain talented employees by rewarding performance and encouraging behavior that will improve our profitability. Under the 1995 Plan, our employees and officers may be granted options to acquire our ordinary shares. The options to acquire ordinary shares are granted at an exercise price of not less than the fair market value of the ordinary shares on the date of the grant, subject to certain exceptions which may be determined by our board of directors. We have registered, through the filing of registration statements on Form S-8 with SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, 12,000,000 ADSs for issuance under the 1995 Plan.
Under the terms of the 1995 Plan, 25% of each stock option granted becomes exercisable on each of the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the date of grant so long as the grantee is, subject to certain exceptions, employed by us at the date the stock option becomes exercisable. As of February 15, 2000, our board of directors adopted a resolution amending the exercise terms of the 1995 Plan whereby 25% of the stock options granted become exercisable on the first anniversary of the date of grant and 6.25% becomes exercisable once every quarter during the subsequent three years. Stock options expire six years after the date of grant. Stock options are non-transferable except upon the death of the grantee. When applicable, the options are held by, and registered in the name of, a trustee for a period of two years after the date of grant in accordance with Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance, or the Tax Ordinance.
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On December 19, 2003, the board of directors resolved to elect the “Capital Gains Route” (as defined in Section 102(b)(2) of the Tax Ordinance) for the grant of options to Israeli grantees. Generally, subject to the fulfillment of the provisions of Section 102 of the Tax Ordinance, under the Capital Gains Route gains realized from the sale of shares issued upon exercise of options will generally be taxed at a rate of only 25% and not at the marginal income tax rate applicable to the grantee (up to 48%). In general, all options granted to Israeli grantees, shares issued upon exercise of such options and any bonus shares issued with respect to such shares will be held in trust for the benefit of the grantee for at least a period equal to the shorter of 30 months from the date of grant or two years from the end of the tax year in which the options are granted. Following an amendment to the Tax Ordinance which came into effect on January 1, 2006, the aforementioned trust period for options granted on or after January 1, 2006 is 24 months from the date of grant. The options may not be released from the trust prior to the payment of the grantee’s tax liabilities. In the event the requirements of Section 102 for the allocation of options according to the Capital Gains Route are not met, the applicable marginal income tax rates will apply.
The 1995 Plan is generally administered by our compensation committee, which determines the grantees under the 1995 Plan and the number of options to be granted. As of April 30, 2007,March 25, 2008, options to purchase 243,10378,878 ordinary shares were outstanding under the 1995 Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $6.31.
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1997 Executive Share Option Plan
In 1996, we adopted the NICE-Systems Ltd. 1997 Executive Share Option Plan, or 1997 Plan, to provide an incentive to our officers and to our directors who are also officers by enabling them to share in the future growth of our business. We have registered, through the filing of registration statements on Form S-8 with SEC under the Securities Act, 4,000,000 ADSs for issuance under the 1997 Plan.
Under the terms of the 1997 Plan, stock options will be exercisable during a 60-day period ending four years after grant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if our year-end earnings per share shall reach certain defined targets, 40% of such stock options shall become exercisable; if earnings per share shall reach certain higher defined targets, an additional 30% of such stock options shall become exercisable; and if earnings per share shall reach certain higher defined targets, an additional 30% of such stock options shall become exercisable, provided that with respect to all of the above-referenced periods, our operating profit shall not be less than 10% of revenues and earnings per share shall exclude any non-recurring expenses related to mergers and acquisitions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, none of the stock options shall be exercisable before the expiration of two years from the date of issuance. When applicable, the options are held by, and registered in the name of, a trustee for a period of two years after the date of grant in accordance with Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance.
The 1997 Plan is generally administered by our compensation committee, which determines the grantees under the 1997 Plan and the number of options to be granted. As of April 30, 2007, there were no outstanding options to purchase ordinary shares under the 1997 Plan. All of the outstanding options under this plan have expired.
2001 Stock Option Plan
In 2001, we adopted the NICE-Systems Ltd. 2001 Stock Option Plan, or 2001 Plan, for the purpose of providing an incentive to certain employees, directors, officers and consultants in order to further the advancement our business. The options to acquire our ordinary shares are granted at an exercise price equal to the closing price of our ADSs as quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on the most recent date prior to the date of the resolution of our board of directors to grant the option for which the price was quoted. We have registered, through the filing of a registration statement on Form S-8 with SEC under the Securities Act, 8,400,000 ADSs for issuance under the 2001 Plan.
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Unless otherwise determined by our board of directors as of the date of grant, stock options expire six years after the date of grant. Stock options are non-transferable except upon the death of the grantee. When applicable, the options are held by, and registered in the name of, a trustee for a period of two years after the date of grant in accordance with Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance.
The 2001 Plan is generally administered by our compensation committee, which determines the grantees under the 2001 Plan and the number of options to be granted. As of April 30, 2007, options to purchase 66,520 ordinary shares were fully vested and exercisable under the 2001 Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $6.05.$5.32.
2003 Stock Option Plan
In December 2003, we adopted the NICE-Systems Ltd. 2003 Employee Stock Option Plan, or 2003 Plan, to attract, motivate and retain talented employees by rewarding performance and encouraging behavior that will improve our profitability. Under the 2003 Plan, our employees, officers and directors may be granted options to acquire our ordinary shares. The options to acquire ordinary shares are granted at an exercise price of not less than the fair market value of the ordinary shares on the date of the grant, subject to certain exceptions which may be determined by our board of directors. We have registered, through the filing of registration statements on Form S-8 with SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, 7,062,1128,962,112 ADSs for issuance under the 2003 Plan.
UnderGenerally, under the terms of the 2003 Plan, 25% of the stock options granted become exercisable on the first anniversary of the date of grant and 6.25% becomes exercisable once every quarter during the subsequent three years. Stock options expire six years after the date of grant. Stock options are non-transferable except upon the death of the grantee. For information regarding options granted under the 2003 Plan to our directors, please see Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Compensation” in this annual report.
Pursuant to the Tax Reform and in order to comply with the provisions of Section 102 of the Ordinance, on January 5, 2004, our board of directors adopted an addendum to our share option plan with respect to options granted as of December 2, 2003, to grantees who are residents of Israel (the “Addendum”). The Addendum does not add to nor modify our share option plan in respect of grantees that are not residents of Israel. On December 19, 2003, the board of directors resolved to elect the “Capital Gains Route” (as defined in Section 102(b)(2) of the Ordinance) for the grant of options to Israeli grantees, which is described above under “1995 Stock Option Plan.”
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The 2003 Plan provides that the number of ordinary shares reserved for issuance thereunder shall increase each year commencing in 2004 by the lesser of (x) 600,000 ordinary shares or (y) two percent (2%) of the total number of outstanding ordinary shares as of December 31st of the immediately preceding calendar year. On September 28, 2005, our shareholders approved the transfer of ordinary shares reserved for issuance under our ESPP (as defined below) to the 2003 Plan. According to such shareholders’ resolution, 400,000 ordinary shares remain reserved under the ESPP, and the balance of 1,062,112 ordinary shares were transferred to the 2003 Plan. The ESPP provides for an annual addition of 500,000 ordinary shares to the pool of ordinary shares. Those additional shares will be transferred to the 2003 Plan each year until calendar year 2009. In addition, on December 21, 2006, our shareholders approved an increase in the number of ordinary shares reserved for issuance under the 2003 Plan by 1,300,000 shares.
The 2003 Plan is generally administered by our compensation committee, which determines the grantees under the 2003 Plan and the number of options to be granted. As of April 30, 2007,March 25, 2008, options to purchase 6,450,3065,758,765 ordinary shares were outstanding under the 2003 Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $23.43.$25.65.
1999 Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan
In 1999, we adopted the NICE-Systems Ltd. 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or ESPP, in order to provide an incentive to our employees and the employees of our subsidiaries by providing them with an opportunity to purchase our ordinary shares through accumulated payroll deductions, and thereby enable such persons to share in the future growth of our business. We amended the ESPP in December 2003 and in December 2005. We have registered, through the filing of a registration statement on Form S-8 with SEC under the Securities Act, 1,437,888 ADSs for issuance under the ESPP. Following the resolution of our shareholders of September 28, 2005, to transfer 1,062,112 ordinary shares from the ESPP to the 2003 Plan, 437,888 ADSs remain registered for issuance under the ESPP.
Under the terms of the ESPP, eligible employees (generally, all our employees and the employees of our eligible subsidiaries who are not directors or controlling shareholders) may, on January 1 and July 1 of each year in which the ESPP is in effect, elect to become participants in the ESPP for that six-month period by filing an agreement with us arranging for payroll deductions of between 2% and 10% of such employee’s compensation for the relevant period. An employee’s election to purchase ordinary shares under the ESPP is subject to his or her right to withdraw from the ESPP prior to exercise, six months after the offering date. The option update price under the ESPP is 95% of the closing sales price of one ADR as quoted on NASDAQ on the semi-annual purchase date.
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For information on the transfer of ordinary shares reserved for issuance under the ESPP to the 2003 Plan, please see the description under the caption “2003 Stock Option Plan” above.
87Actimize Ltd. 2003 Omnibus Stock Option and Restricted Stock Incentive Plan
Pursuant to the terms of the acquisition of Actimize Ltd. in August 2007, we assumed and replaced the stock options and restricted shares granted by Actimize.
In 2003, Actimize adopted the 2003 Omnibus Stock Option and Restricted Stock Incentive Plan, or the 2003 Actimize Plan, to afford an incentive to employees, officers, office holders, directors, subcontractors and consultants of Actimize or any subsidiary of Actimize, to acquire a proprietary interest in Actimize, to increase their efforts on behalf of Actimize and to provide the success of Actimize’s business. Under the 2003 Actimize Plan, the grantees could be granted options to acquire Actimize’s ordinary shares, restricted shares and shares. Incentive stock options to acquire ordinary shares of Actimize were granted at an exercise price not less than the fair market value of the ordinary shares of Actimize on the date of grant or as determined by Actimize’s board of directors or by a committee thereof. In addition, the options were granted at an exercise price of not less than the par value of the ordinary shares of Actimize.
In September 2007, we registered, through the filing of a registration statement on Form S-8 with the SEC under the Securities Act, an aggregate of 987,104 ADSs, which are comprised of (i) 564,225 ADSs subject to issuance upon the exercise of stock options outstanding under the 2003 Actimize Plan and (ii) 422,879 ADSs representing restricted ordinary shares issued in lieu of restricted shares issued under the 2003 Actimize Plan.
Generally, under the terms of the 2003 Actimize Plan, 25% of the options granted become exercisable on the first anniversary of the date of grant and 6.25% become exercisable following the lapse of every consecutive quarter thereafter during the subsequent three years. Options generally expire ten years after the date of grant. Options are non-transferable except upon the death of the grantee. When applicable, the options are held by, and registered in the name of, a trustee for a period of two years after the date of grant in accordance with Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance.
As of March 25, 2008, options to purchase 496,594 ordinary shares of the NICE were outstanding and 399,142 restricted shares were issued under the 2003 Actimize Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $11.44 and $0.83, respectively. No additional grants are being made under this plan following the acquisition of Actimize.
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Item 7. | Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions. |
The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of the dates stated below, with respect to each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of 5% or more of our outstanding ordinary shares. None of our major shareholders has any different voting rights than any other shareholder.
As of May 9, 2007 | As of May 16, 2006 | As of June 29, 2005(1) | As of March 2, 2008 | As of May 9, 2007 | As of May 16, 2006 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name and Address | Name and Address | Number | Percent(2) | Number | Percent(3) | Number | Percent | Name and Address | Number | Percent(1) | Number | Percent(2) | Number | Percent(3) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
FMR Corp. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
82 Devonshire Street | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Boston, MA 02109 and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fidelity International Limited | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
P.O. Box H.M. 670 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hamilton, Bermuda | 7,480,565 | (4) | 14.4 | % | 6,147,416 | (5) | 12.5 | % | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Migdal Insurance and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financing Holdings Ltd. | 3,731,323 | (4) | 6.2 | % | ___ | ___ | ___ | ___ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Massachusetts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial Services Company | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
and affiliates | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
500 Boylston St. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Boston, MA 02116 | 4,496,259 | (6) | 8.7 | % | 4,286,114 | (7) | 8.7 | % | - | - | 3,040,862 | (5) | 5.1 | % | 4,496,259 | (6) | 8.7 | % | 4,286,114 | (7) | 8.7 | % |
(1) |
(2) | Based upon 51,903,839 ordinary shares issued and outstanding on May 9, 2007. |
(3) | Based upon 49,296,202 ordinary shares issued and outstanding on May 16, 2006. |
(4) | Based upon a |
(5) | Based upon |
(6) | Based upon a Form 13F for the period ended March 31, 2007, filed by Massachusetts Financial Services Company with the SEC on May 9, 2007. |
(7) | Based upon information provided to us by MFS Investment Management as of February 20, 2006. |
As of May 23, 2007,March 14, 2008, we had approximately 8082 ADS holders of record in the United States, holding approximately 76%67% of our outstanding ordinary shares, as reported by The Bank of New York, the depositary for our ADSs.
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As of February 13, 2008, FMR LLC (formerly FMR Corp.) held 1,585,074, or 2.7%, of our ordinary shares. This information is based upon a Schedule 13G filed by FMR LLC with the SEC on that date. As of December 12, 2007, FMR LLC held 4,120,994, or 6.9%, of our ordinary shares, according to a Schedule 13G filed by FMR LLC with the SEC on that date.
As of March 31, 2007, Columbia Wanger Asset Management, L.P. held 2,252,981, or 4.3%, of our ordinary shares. This information is based upon a Form 13F, filed by Columbia Wanger with the SEC on May 14, 2007. As of January 10, 2007, Columbia Wanger held 2,742,400, or 5.3%, of our ordinary shares, according to a Schedule 13G, filed by Columbia Wanger with the SEC on that date.
As of December 31, 2005, Bank Hapoalim funds held 925,918, or 3.8%, of our ordinary shares. This information is based upon a Schedule 13G/A, filed by Bank Hapoalim with the SEC on February 14, 2006, with respect to the aggregate holdings of various of its affiliated mutual funds and provident funds. As of November 11, 2005, Bank Hapoalim informed us that it held 967,981.75, or approximately 5%, of our ordinary shares.
As of June 9, 2005, Bank Leumi held 875,174, or 4.6%, of our ordinary shares. This information is based upon a report provided to us by Bank Leumi pursuant to Israeli law with respect to the aggregate holdings of various of its affiliated mutual funds and provident funds. As of March 31, 2004, Bank Leumi reported that it held 1,271,000, or 7.3%, of our ordinary shares. The method used to compute holdings under Israeli law does not necessarily bear the same result as the method used to compute beneficial ownership under SEC rules and regulations.
Between April 28, 2004 and June 2, 2005, Thales S.A. sold 762,025 ordinary shares. Consequently, Thales SA now holds less than 5% of our ordinary shares. This information is based upon the information contained in an amendment to Schedule 13D filed with the SEC on June 3, 2005 by Thales SA.
To our knowledge, we are not directly or indirectly owned or controlled by another corporation or by any foreign government and there are no arrangements that might result in a change in control of our company.
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None.
Item 8. | Financial Information. |
See Item 18, "Financial Statements."
We are not involved in any legal proceedings that we believe, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operation, except as noted below.
89Witness Patent Infringement Lawsuits
On July 20, 2004, STS Software System Ltd., or STS, a wholly owned subsidiary of ours, brought a lawsuit against Witness Systems, Inc. (currently: Verint America Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Verint Systems, Inc.) asserting that Witness Systems is infringing three U.S. patents of STS relating to voice over internet protocol, or VoIP. STS claims that Witness Systems infringes the VoIP patents by marketing and selling products that incorporate methods of detecting, monitoring and recording information – all fully protected by the patents. STS is seeking a permanent injunction to prevent Witness Systems from making, using, offering to sell or selling any product in the United States that infringes these patents. In response, Witness Systems is asserting that the patents are invalid and not infringed. By order of the Court on June 26, 2007, NICE-Systems Ltd. joined as a plaintiff in the litigation. A trial took place in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia during the week of March 17, 2008. Prior to the trial, we removed two U.S. patents from the litigation. A decision by the Court is expected in May, 2008.
On August 30, 2004, Witness Systems filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against Nice Systems Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ours. Witness Systems is alleging infringement of two U.S. patents entitled “Method and Apparatus for Simultaneously Monitoring Computer User Screen and Telephone Activity from a Remote Location” and is seeking damages in an amount ranging from $17 million to $33 million and injunctive relief. On February 24, 2005, Witness Systems filed a similar action in the Northern District of Georgia against NICE-Systems Ltd., alleging infringement of the same two patents. The two actions were consolidated in April 2005. We have denied infringing these patents and are vigorously defending against Witness Systems’ claims. In addition, we have asserted our right to be indemnified for losses arising out of the claims of infringement in this litigation pursuant to an agreement between NICE-Systems Ltd. and Netopia, Inc., our vendor. The case is currently in discovery and no trial date has been set.
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On January 19, 2006, Witness Systems filed a new patent infringement action in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against NICE-Systems Ltd. and Nice Systems Inc., alleging infringement of a U.S. patent relating to technology to extract particular information from recorded telephone conversations. This technology is used as an option with a NICE product called NicePerform. Witness Systems is requesting unspecified damages and a permanent injunction to prevent any sale of allegedly infringing products. We have denied all material allegations and are asserting a number of defenses. We believe that the claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend against them. The case is currently in discovery and trial is expected to begin on May 12, 2008.
On May 10, 2006, NICE-Systems Ltd. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Nice Systems Inc. filed a new lawsuit against Witness Systems, Inc. in the United States District Court for District of Delaware claiming that Witness Systems is infringing ten U.S. patents. These patents cover various aspects of recording customer interaction communications and traditional logging including event triggered call and screen recording, “cradle-to-grave” recording of customer calls, traditional TDM loggers, off-site storage of calls, and multi-stage telephone data logging. In this lawsuit, we claimed that Witness Systems infringes our patents by marketing and selling products that use methods, products and systems which we believe are protected by our patents. The Witness products we have accused of infringing our patents include Impact 360®, ContactStore®, eQuality ContactStore®, ContactStore for Communication Manager®, eQuality ContactStore for Communication Manager® and Eyretel’s MediaStore®. We requested a permanent injunction to prevent Witness Systems from making, using, or offering to sell or selling any product in the United States which infringes these patents. In addition, we sought damages for Witness Systems’ past willful infringement of these patents. The case went to trial before a jury on January 14, 2008. The jury deadlocked and on January 25, 2008 a mistrial was declared. We filed a motion for a new trial date for the case. A new trial date has not been set yet.
CipherActive Lawsuit
On October 19, 2004, CipherActive filed an action against us in the District Court of Tel Aviv. In this lawsuit, CipherActive claims that under a development agreement with us, it is entitled to receive license fees in respect of certain software that it allegedly developed for us and which has been embedded in one of our products. CipherActive claims that it is entitled to license fees in an amount of $600,000, in addition to the amount of $100,000 already paid to CipherActive by us in respect of such license fees. In our statement of defense we claim that the software developed by CipherActive under the agreement has not been successful in the market, is no longer embedded in our product and, therefore, CipherActive is not entitled to any additional license fees. On February 1, 2007, a preliminary hearing took place, during which we suggested that the parties submit the dispute to mediation. Although the court approved the mediation, the parties failed to find an appropriate mediator. In a pretrial hearing that took place on May 27, 2007, the court accepted CipherActive’s request to allow additional time for negotiations between the parties. An additional pretrial hearing has been set for July 8, 2007.
Witness Patent Infringement Lawsuits
On July 20, 2004, STS Software System Ltd., or STS, a wholly owned subsidiary of ours, brought a lawsuit against Witness Systems, Inc. asserting that Witness Systems is infringing three U.S. patents of STS relating to voice over internet protocol, or VoIP. STS claims that Witness Systems infringes the VoIP patents by marketing and selling products that incorporate methods of detecting, monitoring and recording information – all fully protected by the patents. STS is seeking a permanent injunction to prevent Witness Systems from making, using, offering to sell or selling any product in the United States that infringes these patents. In response, Witness Systems is asserting that the patents are invalid and not infringed. With our consent, STS moved the courttook place on January 3, 2007 to join NICE-Systems Ltd. as a plaintiff in the litigation.20, 2008. The case, which is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, is in discovery.
On August 30, 2004, Witness Systems filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against Nice Systems Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ours. Witness Systems is alleging infringement of two U.S. patents entitled “Method and Apparatus for Simultaneously Monitoring Computer User Screen and Telephone Activitydetermined that an accountant from a Remote Location” and is seeking unspecified damages and injunctive relief. On February 24, 2005, Witness Systems filed a similar action in the Northern District of Georgia against NICE-Systems Ltd., alleging infringementone of the same two patents. The two actions were consolidated in April 2005. We have denied infringing these patentsbig five accounting firms will examine the damages claimed by CipherActive and are vigorously defending against Witness Systems’ claims. In addition, we have asserted our right to be indemnified for losses arising out of the claims of infringement in this litigation pursuant towill submit an agreement between NICE-Systems Ltd. and Netopia, Inc., our vendor. The case is currently in discovery and no trial date has been set.opinion within 90 days.
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On January 19, 2006, Witness Systems filed a new patent infringement action in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against NICE-Systems Ltd. and Nice Systems Inc., alleging infringement of a U.S. patent relating to technology to extract particular information from recorded telephone conversations. This technology is used as an option with a NICE product called NicePerform. Witness Systems is requesting unspecified damages and a permanent injunction to prevent any sale of allegedly infringing products. We have denied all material allegations and are asserting a number of defenses. We believe that the claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend against them. The case is currently in discovery.
On May 10, 2006, NICE-Systems, Ltd. and its wholly owned subsidiary, NICE Systems, Inc. filed a new lawsuit against Witness Systems, Inc. in the United States District Court for District of Delaware claiming that Witness Systems is infringing ten U.S. patents. These patents cover various aspects of recording customer interaction communications and traditional logging including event triggered call and screen recording, “cradle-to-grave” recording of customer calls, traditional TDM loggers, off-site storage of calls, and multi-stage telephone data logging. In this lawsuit, we claim that Witness Systems infringes our patents by marketing and selling products that use methods, products and systems which we believe are protected by our patents. The Witness products we have accused of infringing our patents include Impact 360®, ContactStore®, eQuality ContactStore®, ContactStore for Communication Manager®, eQuality ContactStore for Communication Manager® and Eyretel’s MediaStore®. We are seeking a permanent injunction to prevent Witness Systems from making, using, or offering to sell or selling any product in the United States which infringes these patents. In addition, we are seeking damages for Witness Systems’ past willful infringement of these patents. The case is in discovery and a trial is scheduled to begin on January 15, 2008.
On December 28, 2006, NICE-Systems Ltd. and Nice Systems, Inc. filed an action against Witness Systems, Inc., seeking a declaration from the court that a certain patent, which is closely related to the patent aforementioned with respect to the lawsuit filed by Witness Systems on January 19, 2006, is invalid and not infringed. The case is in its very early stages and discovery has not yet begun.
Origin Dispute
In or around February 2005, NICE is currently in dispute withreceived correspondence from Origin Data Realisation Limited relating(“Origin”), notifying the Company of a potential claim against it in relation to an alleged breach of the terms of a license of software and other matters. TheFollowing lengthy negotiations, the dispute was submitted to mediationrecently settled and a settlement dialogue is ongoing. To date, no formal legal proceedings have been instituted by either side.
Dictaphone Corp. v. Mercom Systems, Inc.
On July 28, 2004, Dictaphone Corp. filed an action against Mercom Systems, Inc.new license agreement was entered into between the parties in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York asserting that Mercom Systems is infringing two U.S. patents, which we subsequently acquired from Dictaphone. Pursuant to the terms of our agreement with Dictaphone, we succeeded to the right to enforce these patents and to control this litigation. In response, Mercom Systems is asserting that the patents are invalid and not infringed, including alleging that our previous defense of an action by Dictaphone against us in which we challenged the validity of one of the patents at issue in this action, estopped us from making the claim of infringement. Mercom Systems and NICE reached a settlement whereby Mercom Systems paid NICE a total of $700,000.December 2007.
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Dictaphone Corp. v. VoicePrint.
On July 27, 2004, Dictaphone Corp. filed an action against VoicePrint in the United States District Court for the Central District of California asserting the infringement by VoicePrint of the same patents as those asserted in the Mercom Systems lawsuit, which we subsequently acquired from Dictaphone. This lawsuit has been settled in principle. The documentation for this settlement continues to be negotiatedhas not been finalized and is expected to be completed and signed shortly.executed by the parties.
Calyon Dispute
In December 2006, Calyon Corporate and Investment Bank filed a suit against us in the District Court of Tel Aviv, demanding repayment of $648,144 plus accrued interest, for a total amount of $740,395. We had deducted this amount in January 2004 from a payment transferred from an account of Thales maintained with Calyon to our account, at the instruction of Thales, in connection with our acquisition of TCS from Thales. We had notified TCS in 2004 that we had setoff such amount with respect to an overdue payment by TCS to us. We believe that we hadThe dispute was submitted to mediation, however the legal rightmediation process failed and the proceedings were returned to make the deduction at the time and therefore intend to vigorously defend against such claim.District Court of Tel Aviv. This lawsuit is still in its initial stages.stages and the first hearing is scheduled to take place on September 18, 2008.
Formatest Dispute
On March 9, 2007, Formatest AG filed a claim against NICE Switzerland AG, a wholly owned subsidiary of ours, in the Cantonal Court of Zug, Switzerland. The claim iswas in the amount of EUR 1,187,793 (plus interest at 5% per annum) and iswas made in connection with an agreement dated December 10, 2004 between FAST Video Security AG (now NICE Switzerland AG) and Formatest AG. On June 19, 2007, NICE and Formatest AG entered into an agreement settling all claims. We expect to bebelieve we are entitled to recover all or a substantial part of any liability owed by NICE Switzerland AGthe settlement amount paid to Formatest AG (with the addition of legal costs) under the terms of an indemnification provision contained in the sale and purchase agreement relating tobetween the acquisitionselling shareholders of the shares in FAST Video Security AG although the parties(the “Sellers”) and NICE dated November 16, 2006 (the “Agreement”). We blocked escrow funds from being released to the saleSellers under the Agreement in the amount of $3,000,000 and purchase agreement who are obligedalso declared our right to set off the settlement amount paid to Formatest AG against the Sellers’ first earn out payment pursuant to the Agreement. On December 18, 2007, the Sellers issued a Notice of Arbitration in the Zurich Chamber of Commerce, claiming that NICE should pay them an amount of $1,228,766.60 (plus late payment interest of 5% from July 2007), which is the remaining unpaid portion of the first earn out payment under the Agreement, release $3,000,000 (plus accrued interest) from the escrow account pursuant to the Agreement, plus an additional late release interest of 5%, and compensate them for loss incurred due to deteriorating exchange rates and other related expenses. In accordance with our assessment of the Sellers’ liability and in order to reduce arbitration costs, we decided to release to the Sellers a partial payment of $1,400,000 out of the escrow funds and to pay such indemnification contest any such liability.to the Sellers the amount of $1,228,766.60 prior to the commencement of the arbitration proceedings. On February 20, 2008 we filed a counterclaim against the Sellers for indemnity under the Agreement as of the time of filing to approximately $1,360,000. The arbitration proceedings are at an initial stage and parties are in the process of jointly designating an arbitrator.
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Discrimination in Employment Disputes
On October 26, 2007, two former employees of Nice Systems Inc. filed a lawsuit against NICE and Formatest AG have startedNice Systems Inc., alleging violations of various laws prohibiting discrimination in employment. The plaintiffs are seeking lost earnings and benefits, compensatory damages for emotional injury and injury to discussreputation and punitive damages, as well as attorneys’ fees and costs. We filed our answer and the Court has held an initial conference and entered a potentialscheduling order. The case is in its early stage of discovery.
On December 19, 2007, a former employee of Nice Systems Inc. sent NICE and Nice Systems Inc. a letter alleging engagement in prohibited discrimination in employment and retaliation in terminating his employment. The former employee has made a settlement demand. We are currently in the process of assessing and responding to the dispute.letter.
Since our initial public offering and listing on the NASDAQ National Market (now The NASDAQ Global Select Market) in 1996, we have not declared or paid cash dividends on our ordinary shares.shares or ADSs. We intend to retain our earnings for future growth and therefore do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Under Israeli law, dividends may be paid only out of profits and other surplus (as defined in the law) as of our most recent financial statements or as accrued over a period of two years, whichever is higher, provided that there is no reasonable concern that the dividend distribution will prevent us from meeting our existing and foreseeable obligations as they come due. Payment of future dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on various factors, such as our statutory profits, financial condition, operating results and current and anticipated cash needs. In the event cash dividends are declared by us, we may pay such dividends in Israeli currency. Under current Israeli regulations, any cash dividend in Israeli currency paid in respect of ordinary shares purchased by non-residents of Israel with non-Israeli currency may be freely repatriated in such non-Israeli currency, at the rate of exchange prevailing at the time of conversion.
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OnEffective as of January 3, 2007, we announced that Dafna Gruber will be joining NICE1, 2008, Ms. Yocheved Dvir was elected as Corporate Vice Presidenta statutory outside director. Dr. Leora Meridor completed her second term as a statutory outside director on January 1, 2008, and Chief Financial Officer. Ran Oz, our departing Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has agreed to remain with us to ensure a smooth transition of his responsibilities to Ms. Gruber and is performing the function of CFO at the time of the filing of this annual report. Ms. Gruber is expected to assume the CFO responsibilities during the second quarter of 2007.did not seek re-nomination for an additional term.
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Item 9. | The Offer and Listing. |
Trading in the ADSs
Our American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, have been quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol “NICEV” from our initial public offering in January 1996 until April 7, 1999, and thereafter under the symbol “NICE.” Prior to that time, there was no public market for our ordinary shares in the United States. Each ADS represents one ordinary share. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low reported market (sale) prices for our ADSs, as adjusted for our two-for-one stock split in May 2006.ADSs.
ADSs | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High | Low | |||||||
Annual | ||||||||
2002 | $ | 8.52 | $ | 3.32 | ||||
2003 | 12.93 | 3.97 | ||||||
2004 | 15.88 | 8.70 | ||||||
2005 | 25.05 | 14.65 | ||||||
2006 | 33.41 | 21.55 | ||||||
Quarterly 2005 | ||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 17.73 | $ | 14.65 | ||||
Second Quarter | 19.98 | 14.92 | ||||||
Third Quarter | 24.17 | 19.50 | ||||||
Fourth Quarter | 25.05 | 20.21 | ||||||
Quarterly 2006 | ||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 27.57 | $ | 22.97 | ||||
Second Quarter | 28.90 | 21.55 | ||||||
Third Quarter | 28.50 | 23.50 | ||||||
Fourth Quarter | 33.41 | 27.30 |
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Quarterly 2007 | ||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 37.00 | $ | 29.81 | ||||
Monthly | ||||||||
November 2006 | $ | 33.41 | $ | 28.85 | ||||
December 2006 | 33.09 | 30.31 | ||||||
January 2007 | 33.76 | 29.81 | ||||||
February 2007 | 37.00 | 31.46 | ||||||
March 2007 | 35.71 | 32.53 | ||||||
April 2007 | 38.46 | 33.60 | ||||||
May 2007 | 40.10 | 35.25 | ||||||
June 2007 (through June 12) | 38.42 | 35.62 |
ADSs | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High | Low | |||||||
Annual | ||||||||
2003 | $ | 12.93 | $ | 3.97 | ||||
2004 | 15.88 | 8.70 | ||||||
2005 | 25.05 | 14.65 | ||||||
2006 | 33.41 | 21.55 | ||||||
2007 | 40.95 | 29.04 | ||||||
Quarterly 2006 | ||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 27.57 | $ | 22.97 | ||||
Second Quarter | 28.90 | 21.55 | ||||||
Third Quarter | 28.50 | 23.50 | ||||||
Fourth Quarter | 33.41 | 27.30 | ||||||
Quarterly 2007 | ||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 37.00 | $ | 29.81 | ||||
Second Quarter | 40.10 | 33.60 | ||||||
Third Quarter | 38.98 | 29.52 | ||||||
Fourth Quarter | 40.95 | 29.04 | ||||||
Quarterly 2008 | ||||||||
First Quarter | 34.75 | 24.90 | ||||||
Monthly | ||||||||
October 2007 | $ | 40.52 | $ | 36.34 | ||||
November 2007 | 40.95 | 31.58 | ||||||
December 2007 | 35.05 | 29.04 | ||||||
January 2008 | 34.75 | 24.90 | ||||||
February 2008 | 33.25 | 28.67 | ||||||
March 2008 | 32.43 | 27.25 | ||||||
April 2008 (through April 11) | 30.84 | 27.75 |
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On June 12, 2007,April 11, 2008, the last reported price of our ADSs was $35.7$29.71 per ADS.
The Bank of New York is the depositary for our ADSs. Its address is 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286.
Trading in the Ordinary Shares
Our ordinary shares have been listed on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange, or TASE, since 1991. Our ordinary shares are not listed on any other stock exchange and have not been publicly traded outside Israel (other than through ADSs as noted above). The table below sets forth the high and low reported market (sale) prices of our ordinary shares (in NIS and dollars) on the TASE, as adjusted for our two-for-one stock split in May 2006.TASE. The translation into dollars is based on the daily representative rate of exchange published by the Bank of Israel.
Ordinary Shares | Ordinary Shares | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High | Low | High | Low | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
NIS | $ | NIS | $ | NIS | $ | NIS | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
Annual | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2002 | 38.50 | 8.61 | 15.85 | 3.28 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2003 | 56.90 | 12.94 | 18.70 | 3.91 | 56.90 | 12.94 | 18.70 | 3.91 | ||||||||||||||||||||
2004 | 71.85 | 16.23 | 39.21 | 8.64 | 71.85 | 16.23 | 39.21 | 8.64 | ||||||||||||||||||||
2005 | 116.00 | 25.22 | 64.25 | 14.59 | 116.00 | 25.22 | 64.25 | 14.59 | ||||||||||||||||||||
2006 | 142.50 | 33.16 | 102.00 | 22.48 | 142.50 | 33.16 | 102.00 | 22.48 | ||||||||||||||||||||
2007 | 162.30 | 41.04 | 117.50 | 29.94 |
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Ordinary Shares | Ordinary Shares | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High | Low | High | Low | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
NIS | $ | NIS | $ | NIS | $ | NIS | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
Quarterly 2005 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter | 76.70 | 17.69 | 64.25 | 14.59 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Second Quarter | 89.05 | 19.84 | 65.80 | 15.05 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Third Quarter | 107.40 | 23.99 | 89.25 | 19.45 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fourth Quarter | 116.00 | 25.22 | 94.50 | 20.43 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Quarterly 2006 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter | 128.25 | 27.33 | 104.05 | 22.48 | 128.25 | 27.33 | 104.05 | 22.48 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Second Quarter | 129.00 | 29.02 | 102.00 | 22.70 | 129.00 | 29.02 | 102.00 | 22.70 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Third Quarter | 125.20 | 28.33 | 103.20 | 23.52 | 125.20 | 28.33 | 103.20 | 23.52 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fourth Quarter | 142.50 | 33.16 | 117.00 | 27.25 | 142.50 | 33.16 | 117.00 | 27.25 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Quarterly 2007 | Quarterly 2007 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter | 151.60 | 36.24 | 126.90 | 29.94 | 151.60 | 36.24 | 126.90 | 29.94 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Second Quarter | 162.00 | 40.76 | 141.60 | 34.08 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Third Quarter | 156.00 | 38.03 | 138.00 | 32.15 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fourth Quarter | 162.30 | 41.04 | 117.50 | 30.28 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Quarterly 2008 | Quarterly 2008 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter | 133.80 | 34.69 | 91.11 | 25.86 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Monthly | Monthly | Monthly | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
November 2006 | 142.50 | 33.04 | 124.30 | 29.02 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 2006 | 140.10 | 33.16 | 127.70 | 30.22 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
January 2007 | 142.10 | 33.63 | 126.90 | 29.94 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
February 2007 | 151.60 | 36.24 | 132.10 | 31.05 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 2007 | 150.00 | 35.89 | 136.50 | 32.43 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
April 2007 | 155.30 | 38.69 | 141.60 | 34.08 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
May 2007 | 162.00 | 40.76 | 142.00 | 35.66 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 2007 (through June 12) | 155.30 | 38.08 | 149.50 | 35.62 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
October 2007 | 162.30 | 40.39 | 143.10 | 35.95 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
November 2007 | 161.70 | 41.04 | 125.60 | 32.27 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 2007 | 136.40 | 35.24 | 117.50 | 30.28 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
January 2008 | 133.80 | 34.69 | 95.20 | 25.86 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
February 2008 | 121.10 | 33.39 | 103.90 | 28.43 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 2008 | 119.50 | 32.69 | 91.11 | 26.98 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
April 2008 (through April 11) | 111.60 | 30.66 | 98.60 | 27.82 |
As of June 12, 2007,April 11, 2008, the last reported price of our ordinary shares on the TASE was NIS 150.60107.50 (or $35.97)$29.75) per share.
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Item 10. | Additional Information. |
Organization and Register
We are a company limited by shares organized in the State of Israel under the Israeli Companies Law. We are registered with the Registrar of Companies of the State of Israel and have been assigned company number 52-0036872.
In our annual general meeting of shareholders held on December 21, 2006, we increased our authorized share capital to 125 million ordinary shares and amended our memorandum and articles of association accordingly.
Objects and Purposes
Our objects and purposes include a wide variety of business purposes, including all kinds of research, development, manufacture, distribution, service and maintenance of products in all fields of technology and engineering and to engage in any other kind of business or commercial activity. Our objects and purposes are set forth in detail in Section 2 of our memorandum of association.
Directors
Our articles of association provide that the number of directors serving on the board shall be not less than three but shall not exceed thirteen, including two outside directors. Our directors, other than outside directors, are elected at the annual shareholders meeting to serve until the next annual meeting or until their earlier death, resignation, bankruptcy, incapacity or removal by resolution of the general shareholders meeting. Directors may be re-elected at each annual shareholders meeting. The board may appoint additional directors (whether to fill a vacancy or create new directorship) to serve until the next annual shareholders meeting, provided, however, that the board shall have no obligation to fill any vacancy unless the number of directors is less than three. Our officers serve at the discretion of the board.
The board of directors may meet and adjourn its meetings according to the Company’s needs but at least once every three months. A meeting of the board may be called at the request of any director. The quorum required for a meeting of the board consists of a majority of directors who are lawfully entitled to participate in the meeting and vote thereon. The adoption of a resolution by the board requires approval by a simple majority of the directors present at a meeting in which such resolution is proposed. In lieu of a board meeting, a resolution may be adopted if all of the directors lawfully entitled to vote thereon consent not to convene a meeting.
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Subject to the Companies law, the board may appoint a committee of the board and delegate to such committee all or any of the powers of the board, as it deems appropriate. Under the Companies Law the board of directors must appoint an internal audit committee, comprised of at least three directors and including both of the outside directors. The function of the internal audit committee is to review irregularities in the management of the Company’s business and recommend remedial measures. The committee is also required, under the Companies Law to approve certain related party transactions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the board may, at any time, amend, restate or cancel the delegation of any of its powers to any of its committees. The board has appointed an internal audit committee which has three members, an audit committee which has four members and a compensation committee which has four members. For more information on the Company’s committees, please see Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees–Board Practices” in this annual report.
Fiduciary Duties of Officers
The Companies Law codifies the fiduciary duties that “office holders,” including directors and executive officers, owe to a company. An office holder’s fiduciary duties consist of a duty of care and a duty of loyalty. The duty of loyalty includes avoiding any conflict of interest between the office holder’s position in the company and his personal affairs, avoiding any competition with the company, avoiding exploiting any business opportunity of the company in order to receive personal advantage for himself or others, and revealing to the company any information or documents relating to the company’s affairs which the office holder has received due to his position as an office holder.
Approval of Certain Transactions
Under the Companies Law, all arrangements as to compensation of office holders who are not directors, or controlling parties, require approval of the board of directors. Similarly, adoption and amendment of equity based compensation plans require approval of the board of directors. Arrangements regarding the compensation of directors also require internal audit committee and shareholder approval.
The Companies Law requires that an office holder of the company promptly disclose any personal interest that he or she may have and all related material information known to him or her, in connection with any existing or proposed transaction by the company. In addition, if the transaction is an extraordinary transaction as defined under Israeli law, the office holder must also disclose any personal interest held by the office holder’s spouse, siblings, parents, grandparents, descendants, spouse’s descendants and the spouses of any of the foregoing. In addition, the office holder must also disclose any interest held by any corporation in which the office holder is a 5% or greater shareholder, director or general manager or in which he or she has the right to appoint at least one director or the general manager. An extraordinary transaction is defined as a transaction other than in the ordinary course of business, otherwise than on market terms, or that is likely to have a material impact on the company’s profitability, assets or liabilities.
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In the case of a transaction which is not an extraordinary transaction, after the office holder complies with the above disclosure requirement, only board approval is required unless the articles of association of the company provide otherwise. The transaction must not be adverse to the company’s interest. Furthermore, if the transaction is an extraordinary transaction, then, in addition to any approval stipulated by the articles of association, it also must be approved by the company’s audit committee and then by the board of directors, and, under certain circumstances, by a meeting of the shareholders of the company. An office holder who has a personal interest in a transaction that is considered at a meeting of the board of directors or the audit committee generally may not be present at the deliberations or vote on this matter. If a majority of the directors has a personal interest in an extraordinary transaction with the Company, shareholder approval of the transaction is required.
The Companies Law applies the same disclosure requirements to a controlling shareholder of a public company, which includes a shareholder that holds 25% or more of the voting rights if no other shareholder owns more than 50% of the voting rights in the company. Extraordinary transactions with a controlling shareholder or in which a controlling shareholder has a personal interest, and the terms of compensation of a controlling shareholder who is an office holder, require the approval of the audit committee, the board of directors and the shareholders of the company by simple majority, provided that either such majority vote must include at least one-third of the shareholders who have no personal interest in the transaction and are present at the meeting (without taking into account the votes of the abstaining shareholders), or that the total shareholdings of those who have no personal interest in the transaction who vote against the transaction represent no more than one percent of the voting rights in the company.
In addition, under the Companies Law, a private placement of securities requires approval by the board of directors and the shareholders of the company if it will cause a person to become a controlling shareholder or if:
— the securities issued amount to twenty percent or more of the company’s outstanding voting rights before the issuance;
— some or all of the consideration is other than cash or listed securities or the transaction is not on market terms; and
— the transaction will increase the relative holdings of a shareholder that holds five percent or more of the company’s outstanding share capital or voting rights or that will cause any person to become, as a result of the issuance, a holder of more than five percent of the company’s outstanding share capital or voting rights.
According to the Company’s Articles of Association certain resolutions, such as resolutions regarding mergers, and windings up, require approval of the holders of 75% of the shares represented at the meeting and voting thereon.
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Duties of Shareholders
Under the Companies Law, a shareholder has a duty to act in good faith towards the Company and other shareholders and to refrain from abusing his or her power in the company including, among other things, voting in a general meeting of shareholders on the following matters:
— | any amendment to the articles of association; |
— | an increase of the company's authorized share capital; |
— | a merger; or |
— | approval of interested party transactions which require shareholder approval. |
In addition, any controlling shareholder, any shareholder who knows that it possesses power to determine the outcome of a shareholder vote and any shareholder who, pursuant to the provisions of a company’s articles of association, has the power to appoint or prevent the appointment of an office holder in the company, is under a duty to act with fairness towards the company. The Companies Law does not describe the substance of this duty but provides that a breach of his duty is tantamount to a breach of fiduciary duty of an officer of the Company.
Exemption, Insurance and Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Exemption of Office Holders
Under the Companies Law, an Israeli company may not exempt an office holder from liability for breach of his duty of loyalty, but may exempt in advance an office holder from liability to the company, in whole or in part, for a breach of his duty of care (except in connection with distributions), provided the articles of association of the company allow it to do so. Our articles of association do not allow us to do so.
Office Holder Insurance
Our articles of association provide that, subject to the provisions of the Companies Law, we may enter into a contract for the insurance of the liability of any of our office holders with respect to:
— | a breach of his duty of care to us or to another person, |
— | a breach of his duty of loyalty to us, provided that the office holder acted in good faith and had reasonable grounds to assume that his act would not prejudice our interests, or |
— | a financial liability imposed upon him in favor of another person concerning an act performed by him in his capacity as an office holder. |
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Indemnification of Office Holders
Our articles of association provide that we may indemnify an office holder against:
— | a financial liability imposed on or incurred by an office holder in favor of another person by any judgment, including a settlement or an arbitrator’s award approved by a court concerning an act performed in his capacity as an office holder. Such indemnification may be approved (i) after the liability has been incurred or (ii) in advance, provided that the undertaking is limited to types of events which our board of directors deems to be foreseeable in light of our actual operations at the time of the undertaking and limited to an amount or criterion determined by our board of directors to be reasonable under the circumstances, and further provided that such events and amounts or criterion are set forth in the undertaking to indemnify, and provided that the total amount of indemnification for all persons we have agreed to indemnify in such circumstances does not exceed, in the aggregate twenty-five percent (25%) of our shareholders’ equity at the time of the actual indemnification; |
— | reasonable litigation expenses, including attorney’s fees, expended by the office holder as a result of an investigation or proceeding instituted against him by a competent authority, provided that such investigation or proceeding concluded without the filing of an indictment against him and either (A) concluded without the imposition of any financial liability in lieu of criminal proceedings or (B) concluded with the imposition of a financial liability in lieu of criminal proceedings but relates to a criminal offense that does not require proof of criminal intent; and |
— | reasonable litigation expenses, including attorneys’ fees, expended by the office holder or charged to him by a court, in proceedings instituted against him by or on our behalf or by another person, or in a criminal charge from which he was acquitted, or a criminal charge in which he was convicted for a criminal offense that does not require proof of intent, in each case relating to an act performed in his capacity as an office holder. |
We have undertaken to indemnify our directors and officers pursuant to applicable law. We have obtained directors and officers liability insurance for the benefit of our directors and officers.
Limitations on Exemption, Insurance and Indemnification
The Companies Law provides that a company may not exempt or indemnify an office holder, or enter into an insurance contract, which would provide coverage for any monetary liability incurred as a result of any of the following:
— | a breach by the office holder of his duty of loyalty unless, with respect to insurance coverage or indemnification, the office holder acted in good faith and had a reasonable basis to believe that the act would not prejudice the company; |
— | a breach by the office holder of his duty of care if the breach was done intentionally or recklessly; |
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— | any act or omission done with the intent to derive an illegal personal benefit; or |
— | any fine levied against the office holder. |
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Required Approvals
In addition, under the Companies Law, any exemption of, indemnification of, or procurement of insurance coverage for, our office holders must be approved by our audit committee and our board of directors and, if the beneficiary is a director, by our shareholders. We have obtained such approvals for the procurement of liability insurance covering our officers and directors and for the grant of indemnification letters to our officers and directors.
Rights of Ordinary Shares
Our Ordinary Shares confer upon our shareholders the right to receive notices of, and to attend, shareholder meetings, the right to one vote per Ordinary Share at all shareholders’ meetings for all purposes, and to share equally, on a per share basis, in such dividends as may be declared by our Board of Directors; and upon liquidation or dissolution, the right to participate in the distribution of any surplus assets of the Company legally available for distribution to shareholders after payment of all debts and other liabilities of the Company. All Ordinary Shares rankpari passu in all respects with each other. Our Board of Directors may, from time to time, make such calls as it may think fit upon a shareholder in respect of any sum unpaid in respect of shares held by such shareholder which is not payable at a fixed time, and each shareholder shall pay the amount of every call so made upon him (and of each installment thereof if the same is payable in installments).
Meetings of Shareholders
An annual general meeting of our shareholders shall be held once in every calendar year at such time and at such place either within or without the State of Israel as may be determined by our Board of Directors.
Our Board of Directors may, whenever it thinks fit, convene a special general meeting at such time and place, within or without the State of Israel, as may be determined by the Board of Directors. Special general meetings may also be convened upon requisition in accordance with the Companies Law.
The quorum required for a meeting of shareholders consists of at least two shareholders present in person or by proxy who hold or represent between them at least 25% of the outstanding voting shares, unless otherwise required by applicable rules. Although NASDAQ generally requires a quorum of 33-1/3%, we have an exception under the NASDAQ rules and follow the generally accepted business practice for companies in Israel, which have a quorum requirement of 25%. A meeting adjourned for lack of a quorum generally is adjourned to the same day in the following week at the same time and place or any time and place as the chairman may designate with the consent of a majority of the voting power represented at the meeting and voting on the matter adjourned. At such reconvened meeting the required quorum consists of any two members present in person or by proxy.
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Mergers and Acquisitions
A merger of the Company shall require the approval of the holders of a majority of seventy five percent (75%) of the voting power represented at the annual or special general meeting in person or by proxy or by written ballot, as shall be permitted, and voting thereon in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Law. Upon the request of a creditor of either party of the proposed merger, the court may delay or prevent the merger if it concludes that there exists a reasonable concern that as a result of the merger, the surviving company will be unable to satisfy the obligations of any of the parties to the merger. In addition, a merger may not be completed unless at least (i) 50 days have passed from the time that the requisite proposal for the merger has been filed by each party with the Israeli Registrar of Companies and (ii) 30 days have passed since the merger was approved by the shareholders of each party.
The Companies Law also provides that an acquisition of shares of a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a 25% or greater shareholder of the company and there is no existing 25% or greater shareholder in the company. An acquisition of shares of a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a 45% or greater shareholder of the company and there is no existing 45% or greater shareholder in the company. These requirements do not apply if the acquisition (i) occurs in the context of a private placement by the company that received shareholder approval, (ii) was from a 25% shareholder of the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a 25% shareholder of the company or (iii) was from a 45% shareholder of the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a 45% shareholder of the company. The tender offer must be extended to all shareholders, but the offerer is not required to purchase more than 5% of the company’s outstanding shares, regardless of how many shares are tendered by shareholders. The tender offer may be consummated only if (i) at least 5% of the company’s outstanding shares will be acquired by the offerer and (ii) the number of shares tendered in the offer exceeds the number of shares whose holders objected to the offer.
If as a result of an acquisition of shares the acquirer will hold more than 90% of a company’s outstanding shares, the acquisition must be made by means of a tender offer for all of the outstanding shares. If as a result of a full tender offer the acquirer would own more than 95% of the outstanding shares, then all the shares that the acquirer offered to purchase will be transferred to it. The law provides for appraisal rights if any shareholder files a request in court within three months following the consummation of a full tender offer. If as a result of a full tender offer the acquirer would own 95% or less of the outstanding shares, then the acquirer may not acquire shares that will cause his shareholding to exceed 90% of the outstanding shares.
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Actimize Ltd. Acquisition
On August 30, 2007, we acquired Actimize Ltd., a global provider of operational risk management software solutions that enable financial services institutions to manage the challenges of regulatory compliance, internal policy enforcement and fraud prevention and money laundering. Under the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated July 2, 2007 (the “Merger Agreement”), the consideration paid for Actimize was approximately $281 million, approximately 80% of which was in cash and approximately 20% of which was satisfied through the issuance of 1,501,933 of our ordinary shares based on the market price of the securities a few days before and after the terms of the acquisition were agreed upon and announced. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, we assumed the stock options and restricted shares granted by Actimize (for further information please see Item 6, “Directors, Senior Management and Employees” in this annual report). On August 29, 2007, we entered into an unsecured loan agreement and a letter of undertaking with Bank Hapoalim B.M., which provided for a term loan of $120 million to finance a portion of the cash consideration for the Actimize transaction. The loan was repaid in one installment on September 28, 2007. On September 12, 2007, as required by the Merger Agreement, we filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to register for resale the securities issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement, which we maintained effective for approximately six months.
IEX Corporation Acquisition
In July 2006, pursuant to a share purchase agreement, we acquired all the outstanding shares of IEX Corporation, a worldwide provider of contact center workforce management, strategic planning and performance management solutions for the contact center market, for approximately $205 million in cash.
FAST Video Security AG Acquisition
On January 4, 2006, pursuant to a share purchase agreement, we acquired all the outstanding shares of FAST Video Security AG, a Switzerland-based developer of innovative video systems for security and surveillance purposes, for approximately $22 million in cash, plus earn-outs based on performance milestones of approximately $6.2 million for 2006 and a potential maximum of $5 million for 2008.
Dictaphone Acquisition
On June 1, 2005, we consummated an agreement to acquire the assets and assume certain liabilities of Dictaphone’s Communications Recording Systems (CRS) business for approximately $38 million net after settlement. Dictaphone’s CRS business is a leading provider of liability and quality management systems for first responders, critical facilities, contact centers and financial trading floors.
Among the assets we acquired in the transaction are all of Dictaphone’s rights to receive any damage award or other economic benefit with respect to a violation of any of the rights related to the intellectual property of Dictaphone’s CRS business arising prior to the closing of the transaction.
The parties have signed an amendment to the aforementioned asset purchase agreement with Dictaphone, according to which a final adjustment has been made to the audited closing balance sheet, which reduced the purchase price under the asset purchase agreement by $2 million. In addition, the parties agreed, that we are entitled to all previously undistributed interest and other investment income earned with respect to certain funds held in escrow.
Holders of ADSs are able to convert dividends and liquidation distributions into freely repatriable non-Israeli currencies at the rate of exchange prevailing at the time of repatriation, pursuant to regulations issued under the Currency Control Law, 5738–1978, provided that Israeli income tax has been withheld by us with respect to amounts that are being repatriated to the extent applicable or an exemption has been obtained.
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Our ADSs may be freely held and traded pursuant to the General Permit and the Currency Control Law. The ownership or voting of ADSs by non-residents of Israel, except with respect to citizens of countries that are in a state of war with Israel, are not restricted in any way by the our memorandum of association or articles of association or by the laws of the State of Israel.
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The following is a discussion of Israeli and United States tax consequences material to our shareholders. The discussion is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and does not exhaust all possible tax considerations.
Holders of our ADSs should consult their own tax advisors as to the United States, Israeli or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our ADSs, including, in particular, the effect of any foreign, state or local taxes.
Israeli Tax Considerations
The following is a summary of the principal tax laws applicable to companies in Israel, with special reference to their effect on us. The following also contains a discussion of the material Israeli tax consequences to purchasers of our ordinary shares or ADSs. This summary does not discuss all the aspects of Israeli tax law that may be relevant to a particular investor in light of his or her personal investment circumstances or to some types of investors subject to special treatment under Israeli law. To the extent that the discussion is based on new tax legislation which has not been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, we cannot assure you that the views expressed in the discussion will be accepted by the appropriate tax authorities or the courts. The discussion is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and is not exhaustive of all possible tax considerations.
General Corporate Tax Structure
Generally, Israeli companies are subject to Corporate Tax on taxable income at the rate of 31%29% for the 20062007 tax year. Following an amendment to the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance [New Version], 1961 (the “Tax Ordinance”), which came into effect on January 1, 2006, the corporate tax rate is scheduled to decrease as follows: 29% for the 2007 tax year, 27% for the 2008 tax year, 26% for the 2009 tax year and 25% for the 2010 tax year and thereafter. Israeli companies are generally subject to capital gains tax at a rate of 25% for capital gains (other than gains deriving from the sale of listed securities) derived after January 1, 2003. However, the effective tax rate payable by a company that derives income from an Approved or Privileged Enterprise may be considerably less.
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Tax Benefits Under the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, as amended.
We derive and expect to continue to derive significant tax benefits in Israel relating to our “Approved and Privileged Enterprise” programs, pursuant to the Law for Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, or the Investments Law. To be eligible for these tax benefits, we must continue to meet certain conditions, including making certain specified investments in fixed assets. In the event of a failure to comply with these conditions, the benefits may be canceled and we may be required to refund the amount of the benefits, in whole or in part, including interest and certain inflation adjustments. As of December 31, 2006,2007 we believe that we are in compliance with all the conditions required by the law.
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Income from two Full details regarding our Approved and Privileged Enterprises may be found in Note 12(a)(2) of our “Approved Enterprises” is exempt from income tax for two years. Following this two-year period, income from the “Approved Enterprise” will be subject to corporate tax at a reduced rate of 10-25% (based on the percentage of foreign ownership in each taxable year) for the following eight years. Income from our other two “Approved Enterprises” is tax exempt for four years. Following this four-year period, income from these “Approved Enterprises” will be subject to corporate tax at a reduced rate of 10-25% (based on the percentage of foreign ownership in each taxable year) for the following six years.Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other than by way of our complete liquidation, if we distribute dividends from the income of these fourour “Approved Enterprises” which was exempted from taxes pursuant to our “Approved Enterprise” benefits, we will be taxed as if the exempt income was subject to the regular reduced corporate tax rate arising under our “Approved Enterprise” programs. We intend to reinvest the total amount of our tax-exempt income and not to distribute this income to shareholders.
Income from sources other than the “Approved Enterprise” during the period of benefits will be taxable at regular corporate tax rates.
On April 1, 2005, an amendment to the Investments Law came into force. Pursuant to the amendment a company’s facility will be granted the status of “Approved Enterprise” only if it is proven to be an industrial facility (as defined in such law) that contributes to the economic independence ofInvestment Law, the Israeli economy and is a competitive facility that contributes to the Israeli gross domestic product. The amendment incorporates certain changes to both the criteria and procedure for obtaining “Approved Enterprise” status for an investment program, and changes to the tax benefits afforded in certain circumstances to “Approved Enterprises” under such law (which is referred to as a Privileged Enterprise following such amendment). The amendment will apply to Approved Enterprise programs in which the year of commencement of benefits under the law is 2004 or later, unless such programs received approval from the applicable government authority prior to December 31, 2004 in which case the provisions of the amendment will not apply.
The Company elected for 2006 to be the commencement year for its first Privileged Enterprise program under the amended law. This plan brings the total number of “Approved and Privileged Enterprises” to five.
As a result ofUnder the amendment, tax-exempt income generated under the provisions of the amended law,our Privileged Enterprise, will subject the Company to taxes upon dividend distribution or complete liquidation.
The Company does not intend to distribute any amounts of its undistributed tax exempttax-exempt income as dividends as it intends to reinvest its tax-exempt income within the Company. Accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided on income attributable to the Company’s Approved or Privileged Enterprise programs as the undistributed tax exempt income is essentially permanent in duration.
106 Income from sources other than the “Approved or Privileged Enterprises” during the period of benefits will be taxable at regular corporate tax rates.
Tax Benefits and Grants for Research and Development
Israeli tax law allows, under specified conditions, a tax deduction for expenditures, including capital expenditures, for the year in which they are incurred. These expenses must relate to scientific research and development projects and must be approved by the relevant Israeli government ministry, determined by the field of research, and the research and development must be for the promotion of the company and carried out by or on behalf of the company seeking such deduction. However, the amount of such deductible expenses shall be reduced by the sum of any funds received through government grants for the finance of such scientific research and development projects. Expenditures not so approved are deductible over a three-year period.
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Tax Benefits Under the Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969
Under the Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969 (the “Industry Encouragement Law”), Industrial Companies (as defined below) are entitled to the following tax benefits, among others:
— | deductions over an eight-year period for purchases of know-how and patents; |
— | deductions over a three-year period of expenses involved with the issuance and listing of shares on a stock market; |
— | the right to elect, under specified conditions, to file a consolidated tax return with other related Israeli Industrial Companies; and |
— | accelerated depreciation rates on equipment and buildings. |
Eligibility for benefits under the Industry Encouragement Law is not subject to receipt of prior approval from any governmental authority. Under the Industry Encouragement Law, an “Industrial Company” is defined as a company resident in Israel, at least 90% of the income of which, in any tax year, determined in Israeli currency, exclusive of income from government loans, capital gains, interest and dividends, is derived from an “Industrial Enterprise” owned by it. An “Industrial Enterprise” is defined as an enterprise whose major activity in a given tax year is industrial production activity. We believe that we currently qualify as an Industrial Company within the definition of the Industry Encouragement Law. No assurance can be given that we will continue to qualify as an Industrial Company or that the benefits described above will be available in the future.
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Special Provisions Relating to Taxation Under Inflationary Conditions
The Income Tax Law (Inflationary Adjustments), 1985, or the Inflationary Adjustments Law, represents an attempt to overcome the problems presented to a traditional tax system by an economy undergoing rapid inflation. The Inflationary Adjustments Law is highly complex. Until December 31, 2001, we measured our Israeli taxable income in accordance with this law, but from January 1, 2002, we have elected to measure our Israeli taxable income in relation to changes in the U.S. dollar/NIS exchange rate rather than the Israeli inflation index. We were permitted to make such a change pursuant to regulations published by the Israeli Minister of Finance, which provide the conditions for so doing. A company that elects to measure its results for tax purposes based on the U.S. dollar/NIS exchange rate cannot change that election for a period of three years following the election. We believe that we meet the necessary conditions and as such, continue to measure our results for tax purposes based on the U.S. dollar/NIS exchange rate.
On February 26, 2008, the Israeli parliament approved an amendment to the Inflationary Adjustments Law which limits the applicability of such law so that it will cease to apply after the 2007 tax year.
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Israeli Transfer Pricing Regulations
On November 29, 2006, Income Tax Regulations (Determination of Market Terms), 2006, promulgated under Section 85A of the Tax Ordinance, came into force (the “Transfer Pricing Regulations”). Section 85A of the Tax Ordinance and the Transfer Pricing Regulations generally require that all cross-border transactions carried out between related parties will be conducted on an arm’s length principle basis and will be taxed accordingly. As the Transfer Pricing Regulations are broadly similar to transfer pricing regimes already in place in other jurisdictions in which we operate outside of Israel, we do not expect the Transfer Pricing Regulations to have a material impact on the Company.
Capital Gains Tax on Sales of Our Ordinary Shares
Israeli law generally imposes a capital gains tax on the sale of any capital assets by residents of Israel, as defined for Israeli tax purposes, and on the sale of assets located in Israel, including shares in Israeli companies, by both residents and non-residents of Israel, unless a specific exemption is available or unless a tax treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence provides otherwise. The law distinguishes between real gain and inflationary surplus. The inflationary surplus is a portion of the total capital gain, which is equivalent to the increase of the relevant asset’s purchase price, which is attributable to the increase in the Israeli consumer price index, or a foreign currency exchange rate, between the date of purchase and the date of sale. The real gain is the excess of the total capital gain over the inflationary surplus.
The following discussion refers to the sale of our ordinary shares. However, the same tax treatment would apply to the sale of our ADSs.
Taxation of Israeli Residents
As of January 1, 2006, the tax rate generally applicable to the capital gains derived from the sale of shares, whether listed on a stock market or not, is 20% for Israeli individuals, unless such shareholder claims a deduction for financing expenses in connection with such shares, in which case the gain will generally be taxed at a rate of 25%. Additionally, if such shareholder is considered a “significant shareholder” at any time during the 12-month period preceding such sale (i.e., such shareholder holds directly or indirectly, including jointly with others, at least 10% of any means of control in the company) the tax rate will be 25%. Israeli companies are subject to the corporate tax rate on capital gains derived from the sale of listed shares, unless such companies were not subject to the Adjustments Law (or certain regulations) as of August 10, 2005, in which case the applicable tax rate is 25%. However, different tax rates may apply to dealers in securities and shareholders who acquired their shares prior to an initial public offering.
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The tax basis of our shares acquired prior to January 1, 2003, will generally be determined in accordance with the average closing share price in the three trading days preceding January 1, 2003. However, a request may be made to the tax authorities to consider the actual adjusted cost of the shares as the tax basis if it is higher than such average price.
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Taxation of Non-Israeli Residents
Non-Israeli residents are generally exempt from Israeli capital gains tax on any gains derived from the sale of shares publicly traded on the TASE provided such gains did not derive from a permanent establishment of such shareholders in Israel. Non-Israeli residents are also exempt from Israeli capital gains tax on any gains derived from the sale of shares of Israeli companies publicly traded on a recognized stock market outside of Israel, provided such shareholders did not acquire their shares prior to the issuer’s initial public offering and that the gains did not derive from a permanent establishment of such shareholders in Israel and that such shareholders are not subject to the Inflationary Adjustments Law. However, non-Israeli corporations will not be entitled to such exemption if an Israeli residentresidents (i) hashave a controlling interest of 25% or more in such non-Israeli corporation, or (ii) isare the beneficiarybeneficiaries or isare entitled to 25% or more of the revenues or profits of such non-Israeli corporation, whether directly or indirectly.
In addition, the sale, exchange or disposition of our ordinary shares by a shareholder who is a U.S. resident (for purposes of the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty) and who holds ordinary shares as a capital asset is also exempt from Israeli capital gains tax under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty unless either (i) the shareholder holds, directly or indirectly, shares representing 10% or more of our voting power during any part of the 12-month period preceding such sale or (ii) the capital gains arising from such sale are attributable to a permanent establishment of the shareholder located in Israel. If the above conditions are not met, the U.S. resident would be subject to Israeli tax, to the extent applicable; however, under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, the gain would be treated as foreign source income for United States foreign tax credit purposes and such U.S. resident would be permitted to claim a credit for such taxes against the United States income tax imposed on such sale, exchange or disposition, subject to the limitations under the United States federal income tax laws applicable to foreign tax credits.
Taxation of Dividends Paid on our Ordinary Shares
The following discussion refers to dividends paid on our ordinary shares. However, the same tax treatment would apply to dividends paid on our ADSs.
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Taxation of Israeli Residents
Israeli resident individuals are generally subject to Israeli income tax on the receipt of dividends paid on our ordinary shares, other than bonus shares (share dividends) or stock dividends, which is withheld at the source at the rate of 20%, or 25% for a shareholder that is considered a significant shareholder at any time during the 12-month period preceding such distribution. Dividends paid from income derived from our Approved Enterprise (or a Privileged Enterprise) are subject to withholding at the rate of 15%, although we cannot assure you that we will designate the profits that are being distributed in a way that will reduce shareholders’ tax liability.
Taxation of Non-Israeli Residents
Non-residents of Israel are generally subject to Israeli income tax on the receipt of dividends paid on our ordinary shares, at the rates applicable to Israeli residents, which tax will be withheld at source, unless a different rate is provided in a treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence.
Under the U.S.-Israel Treaty, the maximum Israeli withholding tax on dividends paid by us is 25%. Dividends of an Israeli company distributed from income of an Approved Enterprise (or Privileged Enterprise) are subject to a 15% withholding tax under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty. The U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty further provides for a 12.5% Israeli dividend withholding tax on dividends paid by an Israeli company to a United States corporation owning at least 10% or more of such Israeli company’s issued voting power for, in general, the part of the tax year which precedes the date of payment of the dividend and the entire preceding tax year, provided such United States corporation meets certain limitations concerning the amount of its dividend and interest income.year. The lower 12.5% rate applies only to dividends from income not derived from an Approved Enterprise (or Privileged Enterprise) in the applicable period and does not apply if the company has more than 25% of its gross income derived from certain types of passive income. Residents of the United States generally will have withholding tax in Israel deducted at source. They may be entitled to a credit or deduction for United States federal income tax purposes in the amount of the taxes withheld, subject to detailed rules contained in United States tax legislation.
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A non-resident of Israel who has dividend income derived from or accrued in Israel, from which tax was withheld at source, is generally exempt from the duty to file tax returns in Israel in respect of such income, provided such income was not derived from a business conducted in Israel by the taxpayer.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following is a summary of certainthe material U.S. Federal income tax consequences that apply to U.S. holders who hold ADSs as capital assets for tax purposes. This summary is based on U.S. Federal income tax laws, regulations, rulings and decisions and the U.S.-Israel income tax treaty in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change at any time, possibly with retroactive effect. It is also based in part on representations by The Bank of New York, the depositary for our ADSs, and assumes that each obligation under the Deposit Agreement between us and The Bank of New York and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms. This summary does not address all U.S. Federal income tax matters that may be relevant to a particular prospective holder or all tax considerations that may be relevant with respect to an investment in ADSs.
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This summary does not address tax considerations applicable to a holder of an ADS that may be subject to special tax rules including, without limitation, the following:
— | dealers or traders in securities, currencies or notional principal contracts; |
— | financial institutions; |
— | insurance companies; |
— | real estate investment trusts; |
— | banks; |
— | investors subject to the alternative minimum tax; |
— | tax-exempt organizations; |
— | regulated investment companies; |
— | investors that actually or constructively own 10 percent or more of our voting shares; |
— | investors that will hold the ADSs as part of a hedging or conversion transaction or as a position in a straddle or a part of a synthetic security or other integrated transaction for U.S. Federal income tax purposes; |
— | investors that are treated as partnerships or other pass through entities for U.S. Federal income tax purposes and persons who hold the ADSs through partnerships or other pass through entities; and |
— | investors whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. |
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This summary does not address the effect of any U.S. Federal taxation other than U.S. Federal income taxation. In addition, this summary does not include any discussion of state, local or foreign taxation or the indirect effects on the holders of equity interests in a holder of an ADS.
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You are urged to consult your own tax advisorsadvisor regarding the foreign and U.S. Federal, state and local and other tax consequences of an investment in ADSs.
For purposes of this summary, a “U.S. holder” is a beneficial owner of ADSs that is, for U.S. Federal income tax purposes:
— | an individual who is a citizen or a resident of the United States; |
— | a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof; |
— | an estate whose income is subject to U.S. Federal income tax regardless of its source; or |
— | a trust if: |
(a) | a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over administration of the trust; and |
(b) | one or more United States persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust. |
For purposes of this section, a “non-U.S. holder” is any holder who is not a U.S. holderholder.
In general, if you hold ADSs, you will be treated as the holder of the underlying shares represented by those ADSs for U.S. Federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, no gain or loss will be recognized if you exchange ADSs for the underlying shares represented by those ADSs.
The U.S. Treasury has expressed concerns that parties to whom ADSs are released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits for U.S. holders of ADSs. Such actions would also be inconsistent with the claiming of the reduced rate of tax, described below, applicable to dividends received by certain non-corporate U.S. holders. Accordingly, the analysis of the creditability of Israeli taxes and the availability of the reduced tax rate for dividends received by certain non-corporate U.S. holders, each described below, could be affected by actions taken by parties to whom the ADSs are released.
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U.S. Taxation of ADSs
Distributions
Subject to the discussion under “Passive Foreign Investment Companies” below, the gross amount of any distribution, including the amount of any Israeli taxes withheld from these distributions (see “Israeli Tax Considerations”), actually or constructively received by a U.S. holder with respect to ADSs will be taxable to the U.S. holder as a dividend to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits as determined under U.S. Federal income tax principles. The U.S. holder will not, except as provided by Section 245 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), be eligible for any dividends received deduction in respect of the dividend otherwise allowable to corporations. Distributions in excess of earnings and profits will be non-taxable to the U.S. holder to the extent of, and will be applied against and reduce, the U.S. holder’s adjusted tax basis in the ADSs. Distributions in excess of earnings and profits and such adjusted tax basis will generally be taxable to the U.S. holder as capital gain from the sale or exchange of property. We do not maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under U.S. Federal income tax principles. If we do not report to a U.S. holder the portion of a distribution that exceeds earnings and profits, the distribution will generally be taxable as a dividend even if that distribution would otherwise be treated as a non-taxable return of capital or as capital gain under the rules described above. The amount of any distribution of property other than cash will be the fair market value of that property on the date of distribution.
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Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (the “2003 Act”) enacted on May 28, 2003, as amended by the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005, enacted on May 17, 2006,Code, certain dividends received by non-corporate U.S. holders after December 31, 2002, will be subject to a maximum income tax rate of 15%. This reduced income tax rate is only applicable to dividends paid by a “qualified foreign corporation” that is not a “passive foreign investment company” and only with respect to shares held by a qualified U.S. holder (i.e., a non-corporate holder) for a minimum holding period (generally 61 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date). We should be considered a qualified foreign corporation because (i) we are eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive tax treaty between Israel and the U.S., which includes an exchange of information program, and (ii) the ADS is readily tradable on an established securities market in the U.S. In addition, based on our current business plans, we do not expect to be classified as a “passive foreign investment company” (see “Passive Foreign Investment Companies” below). Accordingly, dividends paid by us to individual U.S. holders on shares held for the minimum holding period should be eligible for the reduced income tax rate. The reduced tax rate for qualified dividends is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2010, unless further extended by Congress.
The amount of any distribution paid in a currency other than U.S. dollars (a “foreign currency”) including the amount of any withholding tax thereon, will be included in the gross income of a U.S. holder in an amount equal to the U.S. dollar value of the foreign currencies calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date of receipt, regardless of whether the foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars. If the foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, a U.S. holder generally should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend. If the foreign currencies received in the distribution are not converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, a U.S. holder will have a basis in the foreign currencies equal to its U.S. dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the foreign currencies will be treated as ordinary income or loss.
Dividends received by a U.S. holder with respect to ADSs will be treated as foreign source income for the purposes of calculating that holder’s foreign tax credit limitation. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, any Israeli taxes withheld on dividends at the rate provided by the U.S.-Israel income tax treaty may be deducted from taxable income or credited against a U.S. holder’s U.S. Federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for the U.S. foreign tax credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of“passive” income and “general” income. The rules relating to foreign tax credits and the timing thereof are complex. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of a foreign tax credit under their particular situation. Under the 2003 Act, the amount of the qualified dividend income paid by us to a U.S. holder that is subject to the reduced dividend income tax rate and that is taken into account for purposes of calculating the U.S. holder’s U.S. foreign tax credit limitation must be reduced by the “rate differential portion” of such dividend. Each qualified U.S. holder is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the possible applicability of the reduced rate under the 2003 Act and the related restrictions and special rules.
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Sale or Other Disposition of ADSs
If a U.S. holder sells or otherwise disposes of its ADSs, gain or loss will be recognized for U.S. Federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale or other disposition and such holder’s adjusted tax basis in the ADSs. Subject to the discussion below under the heading “Passive Foreign Investment Companies,” such gain or loss generally will be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the holder had held the ADSs for more than one year at the time of the sale or other disposition. Long-term capital gains realized by individual U.S. holders generally are subject to a lower marginal U.S. Federal income tax rate (currently 15%) than ordinary income. Under most circumstances, any gain that a holder recognizes on the sale or other disposition of ADSs will be U.S. source for purposes of the foreign tax credit limitation;limitation and any recognized losses recognized will be allocated against U.S. source income.
If a U.S. holder receives foreign currency upon a sale or exchange of ADSs, gain or loss, if any, recognized on the subsequent sale, conversion or disposition of such foreign currency will be ordinary income or loss, and will generally be income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. However, if such foreign currency is converted into U.S. dollars on the date received by the U.S. holder, the U.S. holder generally should not be required to recognize any gain or loss on such conversion.
Passive Foreign Investment Companies
For U.S. Federal income tax purposes, we will be considered a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) for any taxable year in which either 75% or more of our gross income is passive income, or at least 50% of the average value of all of our assets for the taxable year produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, passive income includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents, annuities and the excess of gain over losses from the disposition of assets which produce passive income. If we were determined to be a PFIC for U.S. Federal income tax purposes, highly complex rules would apply to U.S. holders owning ADSs. Accordingly, U.S. holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the application of such rules.
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If we are treated as a PFIC for any taxable year,
— | a U.S. holder would be required to allocate income recognized upon receiving certain dividends or gain recognized upon the disposition of ADSs ratably over its holding period for such ADSs, |
— | the amount allocated to each year during which we are considered a PFIC other than the year of the dividend payment or disposition would be subject to tax at the highest individual or corporate tax rate, as the case may be, and an interest charge would be imposed with respect to the resulting tax liability allocated to each such year, |
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— |
— | a U.S. holder would be required to make an annual return on IRS Form 8621 regarding distributions received and gain realized with respect to ADSs. |
One method to avoid the aforementioned treatment is for a U.S. holder to make an election to treat us as a qualified electing fund. A U.S. holder may make a qualified electing fund election only if we furnish the U.S. holder with certain tax information and we do not presently intend to prepare or provide this information. Alternatively, another method to avoid the aforementioned treatment is for a U.S. holder to make a timely mark-to-market election in respect of its ADSs. If a U.S. holder elects to mark-to-market its ADSs, any excess of the fair market value of the ADSs at the close of each tax year over the adjusted basis in such ADSs will generally be included in income. If the fair market value of the ADSs had depreciated below the adjusted basis at the close of the tax year, the U.S. holder may generally deduct the excess of the adjusted basis of the ADSs over its fair market value at that time. However, such deductions generally would be limited to the net mark-to-market gains, if any, that were included in income by such holder with respect to ADSs in prior years. Income recognized and deductions allowed under the mark-to-market provisions, as well as any gain or loss on the disposition of ADSs with respect to which the mark-to-market election is made, is treated as ordinary income or loss.
Based on our estimated gross income, the average value of our gross assets and the nature of our business, we do not believe that we will be classified as a PFIC in the current taxable year. Our status in any taxable year will depend on our assets and activities in each year and because this is a factual determination made annually at the end of each taxable year, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for any future taxable year. If we were treated as a PFIC in any year during which a U.S. holder owns ADSs, certain adverse tax consequences could apply, as described above. Given our current business plans, however, we do not expect that we will be classified as a PFIC in future years.
You are urged to consult your own tax advisor regarding the possibility of us being classified as a PFIC and the potential tax consequences arising from the ownership and disposition (directly or indirectly) of an interest in a PFIC.
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Payments of dividends with respect to ADSs and the proceeds from the sale, retirement, or other disposition of ADSs made by a U.S. paying agent or other U.S. intermediary will be reported to the IRS and to the U.S. holder as may be required under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. We, or an agent, a broker, or any paying agent, as the case may be, may be required to withhold tax, currently at the rate of 28% (the backup withholding tax), if a non-corporate U.S. holder that is not otherwise exempt fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number and comply with other IRS requirements concerning information reporting. Certain U.S. holders (including, among others, corporations and tax-exempt organizations) are not subject to backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amount of backup withholding withheld may be used as a credit against your U.S. Federal income tax liability provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS. U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors as to their qualification for exemption from backup withholding and the procedure for obtaining an exemption.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Holders
Sale, Exchange or Retirement of Securities
If you are a non-U.S. holder and you sell, exchange or redeem ADSs, you will generally not be subject to U.S. Federal income tax on any gain, unless one of the following applies:
— | the gain is connected with a trade or business that you conduct in the United States through an office or other fixed place of business, or |
— | you are an individual, you are present in the United States for at least 183 days during the year in which you dispose of the ADSs and have a “tax home” in the United States, and certain other conditions are satisfied. |
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
United States rules concerningBackup withholding and information reporting and backup withholding are described above. These rules apply to non-U.S. holders as follows:
Information reporting and backup withholding may apply if you use the U.S. office of a broker or agent, and information reporting (but not backup withholding) may apply if you use the foreign office of a broker or agent that has certain connections to the United States. You may be required to comply with applicable certification procedures to establish that you are not a U.S. holder in order to avoid the application of such information reporting and backup withholding requirements. You should consult your tax advisor concerning the application of the information reporting and backup withholding rules.
Non-U.S. holders are urged to consult legal and tax advisors in the countries of their citizenship, residence and domicile to determine the possible tax consequences of holding and selling ADSs under the laws of their respective jurisdictions in light of their own particular circumstances.
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We are subject to certain of the information reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We, as a “foreign private issuer” are exempt from the rules and regulations under the Securities Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and “short-swing” profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act, with respect to their purchase and sale of our shares. In addition, we are not required to file reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. companies whose securities are registered under the Securities Exchange Act. NASDAQ rules generally require that companies send an annual report to shareholders prior to the annual general meeting. We have an exception under the NASDAQ rules and follow the generally accepted business practice for companies in Israel. Specifically, we file annual reports on Form 20-F, which contain financial statements audited by an independent accounting firm, electronically with the SEC and post a copy on our website. We will also furnish to the SEC quarterly reports on Form 6-K containing unaudited financial information after the end of each of the first three quarters.
You may read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference facilities at, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the SEC’s regional offices at 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60661-2511. You may also obtain copies of the documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The SEC also maintains a web site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The address of this web site is http://www.sec.gov. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference facilities. In addition, our ADSs are quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, so our reports and other information can be inspected at the offices of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. at 1735 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
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Item 11. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. |
General
Market risks relating to our operations result primarily from weak economic conditions in the markets in which we sell our products and changes in interest rates and exchange rates. To manage the volatility related to the latter exposure, we may enter into various derivative transactions. Our objective is to reduce, where it is deemed appropriate to do so, fluctuations in earnings and cash flows associated with changes in currency exchange rates. It is our policy and practice to use derivative financial instruments only to manage exposures. We do not use financial instruments for trading purposes and are not a party to any leveraged derivative.
Foreign Currency Risk. We conduct our business primarily in U.S. dollars but also in the currencies of the United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union and Israel as well as other currencies. Thus, we are exposed to foreign exchange movements, primarily in UK, European and IsraelIsraeli currencies. We monitor foreign currency exposure and, from time to time, may use various instruments to preserve the value of sales transactions and commitments, however, this cannot assure our protection against risks of currency fluctuations. For more information regarding foreign currency related risks, please refer to “Risks relating to Israel”, on page 18.20. We use currency forward contracts together with currency options to hedge payments in NIS. These transactions constitute a future cash flow hedge. As of December 31, 2007, we had outstanding forward contracts in the total amount of $22.5 million. These transactions were for a period of up to twelve months.
Interest Rate Risk. Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to our investment in marketable securities. We invest in investment-grade U.S. corporate bonds, US federal agency securities and dollar deposits with FDIC-insured US banks. At least 80%U.S. treasury bills and notes. As of December 31, 2007, 72% of our securities investments areportfolio was in corporate and US government agency bonds.such securities. Since these investments carry fixed interest rates and since our policy and practice is to hold these investments to maturity, interest income over the holding period is not sensitive to changes in interest rates.
We invest in dollar deposits with insured U.S. banks, dollar deposit in European Banks and Money market funds. As of December 31, 2007, 26% of our portfolio was in such deposits. Since these investments are for short periods, interest income is sensitive to changes in interest rates. Up to 20% of our investment portfolio may be made incomprised of investment grade Callable Range Accrual Notes whose principal is guaranteed. As of December 31, 2006, 3.9%2007, 2% of our investment portfolio was in such Notes.notes. The Notesnotes are subject to interest rate, liquidity and price risks. Since our policy is to hold these investments to maturity or until called, the interest income from these notes willis not expected to be effectedaffected by changes in their market value or to liquidity risk. However, a significant increase in prevailing interest rates may effect whether or not interest income is received for a particular period. As of December 31, 2006, 9% of our2007, we do not have any investment portfolio is invested in auction rate securities. Because
The average duration of the portfolio, as of December 31, 2007, is 1.22 years. The securities in our policy isportfolio are rated at the least as (A-) according to hold these investments until their interest reset date, we face potential capital losses if interest inStandard and Poor’s rating or (A3), according to Moody’s rating. Securities representing 30% of the markets rises dramatically duringportfolio are rated as AAA; securities representing 47% of the holding period (up to 28 days).portfolio are rated as AA; and securities representing 23% of the portfolio are rated as A.
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Other risks and uncertainties that could affect actual results and outcomes are described in Item 3, “Key Information–Risk Factors.”
Item 12. | Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities. |
Not Applicable.
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Item 13. | Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies. |
None.
Item 14. | Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds. |
None.
Item 15. | Controls and Procedures. |
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of NICE’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of NICE’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in RulesRule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that NICE’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over our financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f)15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting system was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
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Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and even when determined to be effective can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management assessed our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006.2007. Our management based its assessment on criteria established in Internal Control–Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2006,2007, our internal control over financial reporting is effective.
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Our management has excluded IEX CorporationActimize Ltd. from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006,2007, because ownership was acquired by us during 2006. IEX2007. Actimize is included in the 2006 consolidated financial statements2007 Consolidated Financial Statements of the company since July 7, 2006August 30, 2007 and constitutes approximately 29%26.12% of our consolidated total assets and approximately 5%2.23% of our total revenues, as of, and for the year ended, December 31, 2006.2007.
Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, audited management’s assessment and independently assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting. Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, has issued an attestation report concurring with management’s assessment, which is included under Item 18 on page F-3 and F-4 of this annual report.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this annual report that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 16A. | Audit Committee Financial Expert. |
Our board of directors has determined that Dan Falk meets the definition of an audit committee financial expert, as defined in Item 401 of Regulation S-K, and is independent under the applicable regulations.
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Item 16B. | Code of Ethics. |
We have adopted a Code of Ethics for executive and financial officers, that also applies to all of our employees. The Code of Ethics is publicly available on our website at www.nice.com. Written copies are available upon request. If we make any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethics or grant any waiver from a provision of this code to our chief executive officer, principal financial officer or corporate controller, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on our website.
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Item 16C. | Principal Accountant Fees and Services. |
Fees billed or expected to be billed by Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, and other members of Ernst & Young Global for professional services for each of the last two fiscal years were as follows:
Services Rendered | Services Rendered | 2005 Fees | 2006 Fees | Services Rendered | 2006 Fees | 2007 Fees | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Audit (1) | $ | 620,000 | $ | 921,000 | $ | 921,000 | $ | 1,335,000 | ||||||||
Audit-related (2) | 224,000 | 219,000 | 219,000 | 347,000 | ||||||||||||
Tax (3) | 112,000 | 410,000 | 410,000 | 320,000 | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 956,000 | $ | 1,550,000 | $ | 1,550,000 | $ | 2,002,000 |
(1) | Audit fees are for audit services for each of the years shown in this table, including fees associated with the annual audit for |
(2) | Audit-related fees relate to assurance and associated services that traditionally are performed by the independent auditor, including: accounting consultation and consultation concerning financial accounting, reporting standards and government approvals and due diligence investigations. |
(3) | Tax fees are for professional services rendered by our auditors for tax compliance, tax advice on actual or contemplated transactions, tax consulting associated with international transfer prices and employee benefits. |
Our Audit Committee has adopted a policy and procedures for the pre-approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our external auditors – Ernst & Young. The policy, which is designed to assure that such services do not impair the independence of our auditors, requires pre-approval from the audit committee on an annual basis for the various audit and non-audit services that may be performed by our auditors. If a type of service, that is to be provided by our auditors, has not received such general pre-approval, it will require specific pre-approval by our audit committee. Any proposed services exceeding pre-approved cost levels or budgeted amounts will also require specific pre-approval by our audit committee. The policy prohibits retention of the independent auditors to perform the prohibited non-audit functions defined in Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 or the rules of the SEC, and also considers whether proposed services are compatible with the independence of the public auditors.
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Item 16D. | Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees. |
Not applicable.
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Item 16E. | Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers. |
In 2006,2007, neither we nor our affiliates purchased any of our own shares.
Item 17. | Financial Statements. |
Not Applicable.
Item 18. | Financial Statements. |
See pages F-1 through F-51F-60 of this annual report attached hereto.
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Item 19. | Exhibits. |
Exhibit No. | Description |
1.1 | Amended and Restated Memorandum of Association, as approved on December 21, 2006 (English translation) (filed as Exhibit 1.1 to NICE-Systems Ltd.‘s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Commission on June 13, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference). |
1.2 | Amended and Restated Articles of Association, as approved on December 21, |
2.1 | Form of Share Certificate (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to Amendment No. 1 to NICE-Systems Ltd.'s Registration Statement on Form F-1 (Registration No. 333-99640) filed with the Commission on December 29, 1995, and incorporated herein by reference). |
2.2 | Form of Deposit Agreement including Form of ADR Certificate (filed as Exhibit A to NICE-Systems Ltd. |
Manufacturing Outsourcing Agreement dated January 21, 2002 by and among NICE-Systems Ltd. and Flextronics Israel Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.5 to NICE-Systems Ltd.'s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Commission on June 26, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference). |
Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 17, 2005, between certain shareholders of FAST Video Security AG and NICE-Systems Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.9 to NICE-Systems Ltd. |
Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2006, between IEX Corporation and NICE-Systems Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.10 to NICE-Systems Ltd. |
Amendment No. 2, dated as of March 27, 2006, to the Asset Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of April 11, 2005, between |
4.5 | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 2, 2007, among Actimize Ltd., Nemo Acquisitions Ltd. and NICE-Systems Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 99.2 to NICE-Systems Ltd.‘s Report on Form 6-K filed with the Commission on August 30, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference). |
4.6 | English Summary of Loan Agreement and Letter of Undertaking, dated August 29, 2007, between NICE and Bank Hapoalim Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 99.10 to NICE-Systems Ltd.‘s Report on Form 6-K filed with the Commission on September 12, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference). |
8.1 | List of significant subsidiaries. |
10.1 | Consent of Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global. |
12.1 | Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of NICE-Systems Ltd., pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 2002. |
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12.2 | Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of NICE-Systems Ltd., pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
13.1 | Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of NICE-Systems Ltd., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
13.2 | Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of NICE-Systems Ltd., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
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Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer | ||||
3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel | Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: www.ey.com/il |
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NICE Systems Ltd. and subsidiaries (“the Company”) as of December 31, 20052006 and 2006,2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006.2007. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above, present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 20052006 and 2006,2007, and the consolidated results of their operations and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006,2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2006 the Company adopted Statement Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 123 (revised 2004) “Share-Based Payment”.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company’sCompany and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006,2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated June 12, 2007April 14, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Tel-Aviv, Israel | KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
A Member of Ernst & Young Global | |
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Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer | ||||
3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel | Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: www.ey.com/il |
We have audited management’s assessment, which is contained in Part II, Item 15 of this annual report on form 20-F underNice Systems Ltd.‘s (“Nice” or the heading “Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting”, that NICE Systems Ltd. (“the Company”“Company”) maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006,2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“the COSO(the “COSO criteria”). The Company’sNice’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment,assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As indicated in Part II, Item 15 of this annual report on formForm 20-F under the heading “Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting”, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal control over financial reporting of IEX corporation IncActimize Ltd. (“IEX”Actimize”) because it was acquired during 2006. IEX2007. Actimize is included in the 20062007 consolidated financial statements of the Company since July 7, 2006August 30, 2007 and constituted approximately 29%26% of total assets as of December 31, 20062007 and 5%2% of total revenues for the year then ended. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of IEX.Actimize.
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Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer | ||||
3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel | Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: www.ey.com/il |
In our opinion, management’s assessment that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, the CompanyNice maintained in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006,2007, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the CompanyNice and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 20052006 and 2006,2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20062007 and our report dated June 12, 2007April 14, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Tel-Aviv, Israel | KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
A Member of Ernst & Young Global | |
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