EXHIBIT 13.1 1998 ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS THE COMPANY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Atwood Oceanics, Inc. is engaged in the business of international offshore drilling of exploratory and developmental oil and gas wells and related support, management and consulting services. Presently, the Company owns and operates a modern fleet of seven mobile offshore rigs and one modular platform rig, as well as manages the operations of two operator-owned platform rigs in Northwest Australia. The Company also owns a fifty percent interest in a new generation platform rig operating in Australia. The Company supports its operations from headquarters in Houston and affiliated offices in Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, United Kingdom, Egypt, India and Italy. TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS AND EMPLOYEES Operating results for fiscal 1998 represent the Company's best financial performance in its thirty years of existence. Revenues, operating cash flows (before changes in working capital and other assets and liabilities) and net income increased 70%, 138% and 152%, respectively, over fiscal 1997 results. Through the end of fiscal year 1998, the Company has maintained virtually 100 percent utilization of its active drilling equipment for five consecutive years. Record earnings and revenues were achieved through contract renewals at higher dayrates and through the commencement of contracts for our semisubmersibles ATWOOD HUNTER and ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS following the major enhancement and water depth upgrade of both units. With term contracts in place for the ATWOOD HUNTER, ATWOOD FALCON, ATWOOD EAGLE and VICKSBURG, the Company has a healthy contract backlog with approximately 90% and 60% of potential revenue days for these units already committed for fiscal years 1999 and 2000, respectively. Despite current near-term softness in the market, the Company's present contract commitments should provide for a high level of revenues during fiscal year 1999. The major shipyard upgrades of the semisubmersible ATWOOD FALCON and jack-up VICKSBURG were completed during the first quarter of fiscal 1999 within cost and completion estimates. The Company has now successfully accomplished four major upgrades in the past two years within cost and completion targets. The ATWOOD FALCON, which was upgraded to 3,500 ft. water depth drilling capability, commenced a three-year contract with options to extend in Southeast Asia during November, 1998. The VICKSBURG, which was completely refurbished and enhanced, including cantilever conversion, is being mobilized to India to commence a one-year contract with options to extend during the first quarter of fiscal 1999. In addition, upgrade of the GOODWYN `A' self-contained platform rig, which the Company manages on a project basis on behalf of the owner, was also completed and commenced drilling operations in October, 1998 under the Company's management. The ATWOOD EAGLE also recently received two additional contracts which require the Company to increase the water-depth drilling capacity of the rig from 2,500 feet to 2,800 feet. These additional contractual obligations do not contemplate extensive downtime for the rig and should keep the rig employed into fiscal year 2000. The tender-assist unit SEAHAWK is also a candidate for upgrade and enhancement, following anticipated completion of its current contract commitment in the second quarter of fiscal year 1999. Such upgrade will only be undertaken upon receipt of a contract commitment. The ATWOOD HUNTER is in the second year of a three-year contract in the Gulf of Mexico. The submersible RICHMOND is committed until April, 1999 and has been continuously employed since February, 1993. We believe the RICHMOND should be a strong candidate for ongoing work prospects, though at reduced dayrates in the short term. In an improving market environment, we expect the semisubmersible ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS to be a significant contributor to the Company's future success. The Company's mix of long-term contracts on high margin units, coupled with short-term contracts, provides the potential for excellent returns with downside protection under current market conditions and upside potential for enhanced earnings from market improvement. A strategy of international operations, highly-skilled personnel, premium equipment, financial strength, and a contract backlog and mix continues to serve us well. We remain optimistic about the long-term market outlook despite current near-term softness. Striving for safe operations remains at the core of our activities. We thank our employees for their efforts and contributions, and our shareholders for their support. /s/ John Irwin John Irwin FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS - ----------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- (In Thousands) 1998 1997 - ----------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- FOR THE YEAR REVENUES FROM CONTRACT DRILLING AND MANAGEMENT $151,809 $ 89,082 NET INCOME 39,364 15,619 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 79,607 62,778 AT YEAR END CASH AND SECURITIES HELD FOR INVESTMENT $ 34,529 $42,234 NET PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT 205,632 143,923 TOTAL ASSETS 281,737 215,330 TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 163,766 122,689 Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL REVIEW At or For the Years Ended September 30, - ------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------ (In thousands, except per share amounts, fleet data 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 and ratios) - ------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------ STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA: Contract revenues $151,809 $89,082 $ 79,455 $ 72,231 $ 65,975 Drilling costs and general and administrative expenses (72,616) (54,890) (56,653) (55,311) (48,652) -------- -------- ------- -------- ------- OPERATING MARGIN 79,193 34,192 22,802 16,920 17,323 Depreciation (17,596) (9,979) (9,742) (11,134) (13,618) -------- ------- ------- -------- -------- OPERATING INCOME 61,597 24,213 13,060 5,786 3,705 Other income (expense) (1,278) 1,165 2,783 3,146 3,230 Tax provision (20,955) (9,759) (4,475) (1,872) (726) -------- ------- ------- ------- ------- NET INCOME $ 39,364 $ 15,619 $ 11,368 $ 7,060 $ 6,209 =========== ========= ======== ======== ======= PER SHARE DATA: Earnings per common share: (1) Basic $ 2.90 $ 1.16 $ .85 $ .54 $ .47 Diluted 2.84 1.14 .84 .53 .47 Average common shares outstanding: (1) Basic 13,592 13,474 13,328 13,182 13,164 Diluted 13,884 13,715 13,544 13,230 13,184 FLEET DATA: Number of rigs owned or managed, at end of period 11 11 11 10 9 Utilization rate for in-service rigs (excludes contractual downtime for rig upgrades in 1998 and 1997) 100% 100% 100% 99% 99% BALANCE SHEETS DATA: Cash and securities held for investment $ 34,529 $ 42,234 $ 40,492 $ 37,922 $ 41,047 Working capital 24,864 27,549 26,151 13,761 25,171 Net property and equipment 205,632 143,923 91,124 91,427 82,845 Total assets 281,737 215,330 159,309 152,853 153,460 Total long-term debt 72,000 59,500 34,473 39,319 53,294 Shareholders' equity 163,766 122,689 105,554 94,892 85,959 Ratio of current assets to current liabilities 1.93 2.41 2.45 1.67 2.89 Note - (1) Retroactively adjusted to reflect 100% stock dividend declared in November, 1997. (The Company has never paid any cash dividends on its common stock.) OFFSHORE DRILLING OPERATIONS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PERCENTAGE CONTRACT OF 1998 MAXIMUM STATUS AT NAME TYPE CONTRACT YEAR WATER NOVEMBER 30, OF RIG OF RIG REVENUES BUILT DEPTH LOCATION CUSTOMER 1998 - ------ ------- -------- ----- ------- -------- -------- ---------------- DRILLING RIGS WHOLLY OR PARTIALLY OWNED --------------------------------------- ATWOOD FALCON Third- 11% 1983 3,500 Malaysia Sabah Shell Upon completion generation (Enhanced Feet Petroleum of six-month Semi- and water Company upgrade period, submersible depth Limited the rig commenced upgrade through drilling under a in 1998) assignment firm three-year from Shell contract in Philippines November 1998. Exploration Upon completion B.V. of the current well for Sabah Shell it is anticipated that the rig will be mobilized to the Philippines to drill for Shell Philippines. ATWOOD HUNTER Third- 23% 1981 3,500 United British- Rig is under generation (Enhanced Feet States Borneo long-term Semi- and water Gulf of Petroleum contract which submersible depth Mexico Inc. terminates in upgrade September 2000. in 1997) ATWOOD EAGLE Third- 21% 1982 2,500 Italy Enterprise Rig is contracted generation Feet Oil to several Semi- Italiana operators under a submersible S.p.A. "rig sharing agreement". Upon completion of the current well in Italy, the rig will return to Egypt to drill for Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company and BG Exploration and Production Limited. The rig also has contracts with Turkieye Petrolleria A.O. and Samedan, Mediterranean Sea, Inc. These contracts provide the rig with a firm backlog of work for approximately one year with options for futher work. VICKSBURG Jack-up 1% 1976 300 Mobilizing Enron Following (Enhanc- Feet to India Oil & Gas completion of ed and India Ltd. upgrade and upgraded refurbishment in in 1998) November 1998, the rig is presently being mobilized to India to commence a one-year contract, with options to extend. SEAHAWK Second- 8% 1974/ 450 Malaysia Esso Rig is under term generation 1992 Feet Production contract semi- Malaysia (estimated submersible Inc. completion second Tender fiscal 1999 assist quarter). Discussions ongoing for multi- year contract extension. ATWOOD Second- 14% 1976 2,000 Australia - Rig is available SOUTHERN generation (Refur- Feet for contract since CROSS semi- bished and it became idle at submersible upgraded the end of in 1997) September 1998. RICHMOND Sub- 8% 1982 75 United Chevron Rig is under term mersible Feet States U.S.A. contract (estimat- Gulf of ed completion Mexico March 1999). Options available for work until October 1999. RIG-19 Modular 4% 1988 N/A Australia Esso Rig is under term platform Australia contract (estimat- Limited ed completion between January and May 1999). RIG-200 Modular 5% 1995 N/A Australia Esso Rig is under term platform Australia contract (estimat- Limited ed completion between January and May 1999). MANAGEMENT/LABOR CONTRACTS ---------------------------- GOODWYN'A'Modular 5% N/A N/A Australia Woodside Rigs are under and NORTH platforms Energy term contract for RANKIN 'A' management of drilling operations into the year 2000. Current plans project drilling operations to alternate between the two rigs. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This Annual Report to Shareholders and the related Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998 includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this report and the related Form 10-K regarding the Company's financial position, business strategy, budgets and plans and objectives of management for future operations are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company's actual future activities and results of operations to be materially different from those suggested or described in this Annual Report to Shareholders and related Form 10-K. These risks include: the Company's dependence on the oil and gas industry; the Company's ability to secure adequate financing; the risks involved in the construction and upgrade to the Company's rigs; competition; operations risks; risks involved in foreign operations; and governmental regulation and environmental matters. These factors ("Cautionary Statements") are disclosed in various places throughout this report and the related Form 10-K. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company, or persons acting on its behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the Cautionary Statements. OUTLOOK In fiscal 1998, the Company's revenues, operating cash flows and net income were the highest in its history. Except for rigs idle for upgrades, the Company had 100 percent utilization of its drilling fleet in fiscal 1998. At the beginning of fiscal 1998, the price for oil was around $20 per barrel, with worldwide fleet utilization for mobile offshore rigs in excess of 95 percent. During the second half of fiscal 1998, the price for oil declined which resulted in some curtailment of worldwide drilling activities, especially for jack-ups and shallow water drilling rigs. Currently, the price for oil is around $12 per barrel, with worldwide fleet utilization for mobile offshore rigs at less than 90 percent. Due to current weakness in the worldwide offshore drilling market, the Company was unable to identify an ongoing contract for the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS when it completed its last contract at the end of September, 1998. Currently, the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS is the Company's only rig not generating revenues. In an improved market environment, the Company is confident that the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS will be a significant contributor to future revenues. Despite the current market softness and no current contract for the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS, the Company's contract backlog for its third-generation semisubmersibles should provide a high level of revenues and cash flows in fiscal 1999. The Company remains confident in the long-term future of the worldwide offshore drilling market. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Fiscal Year 1998 Versus Fiscal Year 1997 Despite the ATWOOD FALCON and VICKSBURG being idle for a significant portion of fiscal 1998 while undergoing upgrades, contract revenues increased 70 percent to $151.8 million from $89.1 million. This increase was primarily attributable to the ATWOOD HUNTER returning to work at a significant increase in dayrate revenues following upgrade in fiscal 1997, the initial commencement of drilling operations for the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS following its upgrade and refurbishment in fiscal 1997 and the increase in dayrate revenues for the ATWOOD EAGLE. An analysis of contract revenues by rig for fiscal years 1998 and 1997 is as follows: CONTRACT REVENUES ------------------------------------ (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 Variance ------- ------ -------- ATWOOD HUNTER $ 35.2 $ 5.2 $ 30.0 ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS 20.4 0.0 20.4 ATWOOD EAGLE 32.2 19.3 12.9 ATWOOD FALCON 17.3 16.9 0.4 RICHMOND 11.3 8.8 2.5 RIG-200 7.9 5.9 2.0 SEAHAWK 11.4 11.3 0.1 VICKSBURG 1.9 5.1 (3.2) RIG-19 6.7 7.1 (0.4) GOODWYN `A' 4.3 7.3 (3.0) NORTH RANKIN `A' 3.2 2.2 1.0 ------- ------ ------- $ 151.8 $ 89.1 $ 62.7 ======= ====== ======= In September, 1997, the ATWOOD HUNTER commenced drilling under a three-year contract in the United States Gulf of Mexico. Due to the rig being upgraded, it generated less than 100 days of revenue during fiscal 1997. The ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS, which generated no revenues prior to fiscal 1998, commenced drilling in Australia in November, 1997. The ATWOOD EAGLE was relocated from West Africa to the Mediterranean Sea area in March, 1998 and commenced working under a rig-sharing agreement, with enhanced dayrate revenues. The ATWOOD FALCON entered a shipyard in May, 1998 for its water-depth upgrade, which was not completed until November, 1998. Revenues from the rig should be significantly higher in fiscal 1999. Due to a strong market during the first half of fiscal 1998, revenues from the RICHMOND increased in fiscal 1998 compared to fiscal 1997. However, due to current softness in the market, there has been a recent decline in dayrate for the rig and, therefore, it is expected to generate less revenues in fiscal 1999 than in fiscal 1998. Stable contracts for the SEAHAWK, RIG-200 and RIG-19 provided consistency to operations during fiscal 1998. Contractual work for RIG-200 and RIG-19 could terminate during fiscal 1999 with an uncertainty for ongoing work. The VICKSBURG entered a shipyard in December, 1997 for refurbishment and upgrade which was not completed until November, 1998, and this accounted for its decrease in revenues. Drilling activity for the GOODWYN `A' declined during the second half of fiscal 1998 due to its Australian owner upgrading the rig. The Company provided additional labor to NORTH RANKIN `A' and is expected to continue to be involved in the operation of both rigs at least into the year 2000. Contract drilling and management costs during fiscal 1998 increased 34 percent from $48.8 million to $65.3 million. This increase was primarily due to the ATWOOD HUNTER and ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS commencing drilling operations following their upgrades during fiscal 1997. An analysis of contract drilling and management costs by rig is as follows: CONTRACT DRILLING AND MANAGEMENT COSTS -------------------------------------------- (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 Variance ----- ------ -------- ATWOOD HUNTER $ 9.4 $ 1.7 $ 7.7 ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS 10.6 0.0 10.6 ATWOOD EAGLE 11.5 9.8 1.7 ATWOOD FALCON 4.9 6.3 (1.4) RICHMOND 6.0 5.0 1.0 RIG-200 2.6 2.0 0.6 SEAHAWK 6.1 7.0 (0.9) VICKSBURG 1.4 3.6 (2.2) RIG-19 4.5 5.3 (0.8) GOODWYN `A' 3.4 5.7 (2.3) NORTH RANKIN `A' 2.9 1.1 1.8 OTHER 2.0 1.3 0.7 ------ ------ ------ $ 65.3 $ 48.8 $ 16.5 ====== ====== ====== The ATWOOD HUNTER worked the entire fiscal 1998 compared to only approximately one quarter of fiscal 1997. The Company acquired the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS in October, 1993, but did not place the rig into service until after the completion of its refurbishment and upgrade in November, 1997. The increase in operating costs for the ATWOOD EAGLE was due primarily to an increase in maintenance costs and higher operating costs associated with working in the Mediterranean Sea area as compared to West Africa. The increase in operating costs for the RICHMOND was due primarily to higher payroll related costs. During the ATWOOD FALCON and VICKSBURG upgrade periods, no operating costs are being incurred, resulting in lower operating costs in the current year than in fiscal 1997. As a result of certain payroll related tax refunds received in fiscal 1998, operating costs for RIG-19 declined. The increase in NORTH RANKIN `A' costs and the decrease in GOODWYN `A' costs were due to an increase in personnel services provided to the NORTH RANKIN `A', and a decrease in services provided to GOODWYN `A' during its upgrade period. An analysis of depreciation expense by rig is as follows: DEPRECIATION EXPENSE -------------------------------------- (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 Variance ------- ------ -------- ATWOOD HUNTER $ 5.0 $ 0.6 $ 4.4 ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS 3.0 0.0 3.0 ATWOOD EAGLE 2.2 2.1 0.1 ATWOOD FALCON 1.8 2.7 (0.9) RICHMOND 0.5 0.4 0.1 RIG-200 2.1 1.5 0.6 SEAHAWK 2.5 2.2 0.3 VICKSBURG 0.0 0.0 0.0 RIG-19 0.2 0.2 0.0 OTHER 0.3 0.3 0.0 ----- ------ ----- $17.6 $ 10.0 $ 7.6 ===== ====== ===== The increase in depreciation expense was primarily due to the commencing of depreciation in fiscal 1998 of upgrade costs of the ATWOOD HUNTER and ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS. The Company does not recognize depreciation expense during the period a rig is out of service for a significant upgrade. This accounts for the decline in depreciation expense for the ATWOOD FALCON in fiscal 1998 and the ATWOOD HUNTER in fiscal 1997. The increase in depreciation expense of RIG-200 was due to the rig having active drilling operations for all of fiscal 1998 compared to only three quarters of fiscal 1997. General and administrative expense increased 20 percent in fiscal 1998 compared to fiscal 1997. This increase was attributed to an increase in payroll related costs and in professional fees. The $2.4 million increase in interest expense was primarily related to the increase in funds borrowed under the Company's revolving credit agreement. With a significant increase in pre-tax income and virtually no carryforward tax attributes, both the foreign and domestic tax provision increased. Fiscal Year 1997 Versus Fiscal Year 1996 Contract revenues in fiscal 1997 increased 12 percent to $89.1 million from $79.5 million. This increase was primarily attributable to dayrate increases on the ATWOOD FALCON, ATWOOD EAGLE and RICHMOND, to an increase in labor services provided to NORTH RANKIN 'A' and to a complete year of revenues from RIG-200. An analysis of contract revenues by rig for fiscal 1997 and 1996 is as follows: CONTRACT REVENUES ------------------------------------ (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1997 1996 Variance ------ ------- -------- ATWOOD FALCON $16.9 $ 11.5 $ 5.4 ATWOOD HUNTER 5.2 11.3 (6.1) ATWOOD EAGLE 19.3 15.6 3.7 RIG-200 5.9 2.2 3.7 SEAHAWK 11.3 11.0 0.3 VICKSBURG 5.1 5.0 0.1 RIG-19 7.1 8.2 (1.1) RICHMOND 8.8 6.2 2.6 GOODWYN 'A' 7.3 7.6 (0.3) NORTH RANKIN 'A' 2.2 0.9 1.3 ----- ----- ------ $89.1 $ 79.5 $ 9.6 ===== ====== ====== Contracts which commenced during the last half of fiscal 1996 by the ATWOOD FALCON and ATWOOD EAGLE, and which resulted in dayrate increases of approximately 60 percent and 25 percent, respectively, extended through fiscal 1997, accounting for the increase in revenues for these rigs. The ATWOOD HUNTER entered the shipyard in December, 1996 for its deep water upgrade which was not completed until September, 1997, accounting for its decrease in revenues. A full year of revenues coupled with the commencement of active drilling at higher dayrates accounted for the increase in revenues for RIG-200. Stable contracts for the SEAHAWK and VICKSBURG provided consistency to these operations. The decline in revenues for RIG-19 was due to the rig being moved to a new platform during fiscal 1997 with no revenues being recognized during the relocation period. Market conditions for the RICHMOND also improved during fiscal 1997 resulting in increased revenues. In contrast to a 12 percent increase in contract revenues, contract drilling and management costs in fiscal 1997 decreased 5 percent to $48.8 million from $51.5 million. The decrease was primarily due to the absence of drilling costs on the ATWOOD HUNTER during its upgrade period. An analysis of contract drilling and management costs by rig is as follows: CONTRACT DRILLING AND MANAGEMENT COSTS -------------------------------------------- (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1997 1996 Variance ----- ----- -------- ATWOOD FALCON $ 6.3 $ 6.9 $ (0.6) ATWOOD HUNTER 1.7 7.2 (5.5) ATWOOD EAGLE 9.8 9.1 0.7 RIG-200 2.0 0.3 1.7 SEAHAWK 7.0 6.5 0.5 VICKSBURG 3.6 3.1 0.5 RIG-19 5.3 6.4 (1.1) RICHMOND 5.0 4.8 0.2 GOODWYN 'A' 5.7 5.9 (0.2) NORTH RANKIN 'A' 1.1 0.6 0.5 OTHER 1.3 0.7 0.6 ------ ------ ------ $ 48.8 $ 51.5 $ (2.7) ====== ====== ======= The ATWOOD HUNTER was out of service for approximately eight months in fiscal 1997 due to the upgrade period. The increase in costs of RIG-200 was due to a full year of operations. The decrease in costs for RIG-19 was due to its relocation to a new platform which resulted in no drilling costs being recognized during the relocation period. The increase in operating costs for the ATWOOD EAGLE, SEAHAWK, VICKSBURG and NORTH RANKIN 'A' were due primarily to higher payroll related costs. An analysis of depreciation expense by rig is as follows: DEPRECIATION EXPENSE -------------------------------------- (In millions) Fiscal Fiscal 1997 1996 Variance ------ ------ -------- ATWOOD FALCON $ 2.7 $ 2.6 $ 0.1 ATWOOD HUNTER 0.6 1.6 (1.0) ATWOOD EAGLE 2.1 2.0 0.1 RIG-200 1.5 0.0 1.5 SEAHAWK 2.2 2.2 0.0 VICKSBURG 0.0 0.0 0.0 RIG-19 0.2 0.6 (0.4) RICHMOND 0.4 0.4 0.0 OTHER 0.3 0.3 0.0 ----- ----- ----- $10.0 $ 9.7 $ 0.3 ===== ===== ===== With the ATWOOD HUNTER out of service for drilling operations during its water depth enhancement, no depreciation was recognized during the rig's upgrade period. Depreciation of RIG-200 commenced upon start-up of active drilling operation in January, 1997. General and administrative expense increased 19 percent in fiscal 1997 compared to fiscal 1996. This increase was attributable to an increase in payroll related costs and to professional fees associated with a registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in February, 1997 with respect to a public offering of 1.5 million shares of the Company's common stock, which was subsequently withdrawn due to the stock price range not adequately reflecting the value of the Company. Investment income in fiscal years 1997 and 1996 of $2.4 million and $2.5 million, respectively, offset interest expense for both years. With an increase in pre-tax income and virtually no carryforward tax attributes, both foreign and domestic tax provisions significantly increased. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES During fiscal 1998, operating cash flows (before changes in working capital and other assets and liabilities) increased 138 percent from $25.8 million to $61.4 million. During fiscal 1998, the Company utilized available cash, internally generated funds and $14 million of funds borrowed under its revolving credit facility to invest approximately $30 million in the water-depth upgrade of the ATWOOD FALCON, to invest approximately $30 million in the refurbishment and upgrade of the VICKSBURG, to invest approximately $13 million in completing the refurbishment and upgrade of the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS and to fund approximately $7 million in other capital expenditures. After enhancing the ATWOOD FALCON to drill in up to 3,500 feet of water at an approximate cost of $50 million, of which $30 million was expended during fiscal 1998, the rig commenced drilling under a three-year contract in November, 1998. After the Company committed approximately $35 million to upgrade and refurbish the VICKSBURG (including cantilevering for extended reach drilling, adding a top drive and enhancing certain drilling equipment), the rig is preparing to mobilize to India to commence a one-year contract. Currently, the Company has two other rigs, the SEAHAWK and ATWOOD EAGLE, which are candidates for upgrades. A contract extension is currently being discussed for the SEAHAWK, which is a requirement before any upgrade will be undertaken. The Company is contractually obligated to increase the water-depth drilling capacity of the ATWOOD EAGLE from 2,500 feet to 2,800 feet. This minimum upgrade will cost approximately $4 million and will not require the use of a shipyard or result in extensive downtime for the rig. Thus, except for funding the remaining costs associated with the upgrades of the ATWOOD FALCON and VICKSBURG (approximately $25 million), minimal upgrade of the ATWOOD EAGLE and general capital maintenance of the Company's other rigs, the Company currently has no significant capital commitments. Since September 30, 1998, the Company has borrowed another $8 million under its revolving credit facility, resulting in a current outstanding balance under the facility of $80 million. Subject to an investment opportunity being identified, the Company estimates that it will not significantly increase the outstanding balance under this facility. The ATWOOD HUNTER, ATWOOD EAGLE, and RICHMOND plus $20 million of the Company's United States Treasury bonds are pledged as collateral under the $125 million revolving credit facility. This revolving line of credit converts to a reducing facility commencing on March 31, 1999, with commitment reduction of $8.3 million per quarter until final maturity on March 31, 2002. Depending upon additional capital investments, anticipated future operating cash flows are expected to provide the Company with the option of repaying funds borrowed under the revolving credit facility prior to its required maturity. For the last quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company earned approximately $35 million in contract revenues compared to approximately $24 million for the last quarter of fiscal 1997. This significant increase in contract revenues accounts for the $11.4 million increase in accounts receivable at September 30, 1998 compared to September 30, 1997. The Company's portfolio of accounts receivable is comprised of major international corporate entities with stable payment experience. Historically, the Company has experienced no difficulties in receivable collections; however, at September 30, 1998, there is a contract dispute over approximately $2 million billed in September 1998. The Company is in the process of taking legal action to collect this $2 million. The Company continues to pursue additional growth opportunities. The current decline in drilling market activity may enhance the Company's ability to identify investment alternatives. The Company would expect to finance additional capital expenditures through a combination of operating cash flows, additional borrowing under the revolving credit facility or additional debt financing; however, the Company can give no assurance that additional debt financing would be available on terms acceptable to the Company. The Company continues to periodically review and adjust its planned capital expenditures and financing of such expenditures in light of current market conditions. YEAR 2000 Many computer software systems, as well as certain hardware and equipment utilizing date-sensitive data, were structured to use a two-digit date field meaning that they will not be able to properly recognize dates in the Year 2000. The Company is using both internal and external resources to assess and where necessary, to reprogram, replace or test software for Year 2000 Compliance. A majority of the Company's internal information systems are in the process of being reprogrammed or replaced with fully-compliant new or modified systems. Most of the Company's operating systems on its various drilling rigs are mechanical, with no Year 2000 compliance issues; however, there are some systems that will require assessment and possible reprogramming or replacement. The Company is striving to address and, where necessary, correct all Year 2000 issues by the end of June 1999. Currently, the total cost of assessments, new software and implementations is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million, most of which will relate to new software and will be capitalized. The Company believes that with modifications to existing software and conversion to new software, the Year 2000 issues will not pose significant operational problems; however, the extent and magnitude of the Year 2000 problem as it will affect the Company is difficult to predict. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Company will adequately correct all Year 2000 problems, so as not to create disruptions in the Company's business. The Company does not currently have information concerning the Year 2000 compliance of its significant customers or suppliers. In the event the Company's major suppliers or customers do not successfully and timely achieve Year 2000 compliance, the Company's operations will be adversely affected. DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK The Company is exposed to market risk, including adverse changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates as discussed below. Interest Rate Risk Total long-term debt at September 30, 1998, included $72 million of floating rate debt. As a result, the Company's annual interest costs in fiscal 1999 will fluctuate based on interest rate changes. Because the interest rate on the Company's long-term debt is a floating rate, the fair value of the Company's long-term debt approximates carrying value as of September 30, 1998. The impact on annual cash flow of a 10 percent change in the floating rate (approximately 70 basis points) would be approximately $0.5 million. The Company did not have any open derivative contracts relating to its floating rate debt at September 30, 1998. Foreign Currency Risk Certain of the Company's subsidiaries have monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in a currency other than their functional currencies. A decrease in the value of 10 percent in the foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar from the year-end exchange rates would result in a foreign currency transaction loss of approximately $1 million, based on September 30, 1998 amounts. The Company considers its current risk exposure to foreign currency exchange rate movements, based on net cash flows, to be immaterial. The Company did not have any open derivative contracts relating to foreign currencies at September 30, 1998. REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS To Board of Directors of Atwood Oceanics, Inc.: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Atwood Oceanics, Inc. (a Texas corporation) and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1998 and 1997, and the related consolidated statements of operations, cash flows and changes in shareholders' equity for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 1998. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1998 and 1997, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Houston, Texas November 23, 1998 Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS September 30, - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands) 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,621 $19,264 Accounts receivable 27,730 16,353 Inventories of materials and supplies, at lower of average cost or market 8,076 7,004 Deferred tax assets 880 1,820 Prepaid expenses 3,280 2,610 ------ ------- Total Current Assets 51,587 47,051 ------ ------- SECURITIES HELD FOR INVESTMENT: Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost 22,585 22,581 Available-for-sale, at fair value 323 389 ------ -------- 22,908 22,970 ------ -------- PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, at cost: Drilling vessels, equipment and drill pipe 327,520 249,496 Other 6,128 5,363 ------- -------- 333,648 254,859 Less - accumulated depreciation 128,016 110,936 ------- -------- Net Property and Equipment 205,632 143,923 ------- -------- DEFERRED COSTS AND OTHER ASSETS 1,610 1,386 -------- -------- $281,737 $215,330 ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS September 30, - --------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands, except share data) 1998 1997 - --------------------------------------------------------------------- LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY CURRENT LIABILITIES: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 750 $ 750 Accounts payable 14,250 5,323 Accrued liabilities 11,723 13,429 ------ ------ Total Current Liabilities 26,723 19,502 ------ ------ LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current maturities 72,000 58,750 ------ ------ DEFERRED CREDITS: Income taxes 4,820 1,810 Mobilization fees and other 14,428 12,579 ------ ------ 19,248 14,389 ------ ------ SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: Preferred stock, no par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding --- --- Common stock, $1 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized with 13,625,000 and 13,546,000 issued and outstanding in 1998 and 1997, respectively 13,625 13,546 Paid-in capital 51,781 50,104 Net unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities (155) (112) Retained earnings 98,515 59,151 -------- ------ Total Shareholders' Equity 163,766 122,689 -------- ------- $ 281,737 $215,330 ========= ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Years Ended September 30, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands, except per share amounts) 1998 1997 1996 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REVENUES: Contract drilling $148,570 $86,833 $78,555 Contract management 3,239 2,249 900 -------- ------- ------- 151,809 89,082 79,455 -------- ------- ------- COSTS AND EXPENSES: Contract drilling 62,364 47,714 50,912 Contract management 2,921 1,076 628 Depreciation 17,596 9,979 9,742 General and administrative 7,331 6,100 5,113 ------ ------ ------ 90,212 64,869 66,395 ------ ------ ------ OPERATING INCOME 61,597 24,213 13,060 ------ ------ ------ OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): Interest expense (3,599) (1,212) (2,522) Investment income 2,321 2,377 2,510 Realized gain on sale of securities -- -- 2,795 ------- ------- ------- (1,278) 1,165 2,783 ------- ------- ------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 60,319 25,378 15,843 PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES 20,955 9,759 4,475 ------- ------- ------- NET INCOME $39,364 $15,619 $11,368 ======= ======== ======= EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE: Basic $ 2.90 $ 1.16 $ .85 Diluted 2.84 1.14 .84 AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING: Basic 13,592 13,474 13,328 Diluted 13,884 13,715 13,544 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS For Years Ended September 30, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands) 1998 1997 1996 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income $39,364 $15,619 $11,368 ------- ------- ------- Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation 17,596 9,979 9,742 Amortization of deferred items 427 539 604 Deferred federal income tax provision (benefit) 3,970 (330) 1,400 Gain on sale of securities --- --- (2,795) Changes in assets and liabilities: Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable (11,377) 334 (3,412) Increase (decrease) in accounts payable 954 2,708 (3,645) Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities (1,706) 5,958 (1,524) Net mobilization fees 2,779 6,286 3,000 Other (1,924) (1,848) 2,216 ------ --------- ----- 10,719 23,626 5,586 ------ -------- ----- Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 50,083 39,245 16,954 ------ ------ ------ CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from sale of securities --- --- 3,738 Capital expenditures (79,607) (62,778) (9,526) Non cash portion of capital expenditures 7,973 --- --- ------- ---------- ----- Net Cash Used by Investing Activities (71,634) (62,778) (5,788) -------- -------- ------- CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from exercises of stock options 658 1,019 761 Proceeds from revolving credit facility 14,000 58,000 --- Principal payments on debt (750) (32,973) (6,346) Deferred financing costs --- (814) --- ------- ------- ------ Net Cash Provided (Used) by Financing Activities 13,908 25,232 (5,585) ------- ------- ------ NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (7,643) 1,699 5,581 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, at beginning of period 19,264 17,565 11,984 -------- ------ ------ CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, at end of period $11,621 $19,264 $17,565 ======= ======= ======= - -------------------------- Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash paid during the year for domestic and foreign income taxes $18,549 $ 6,896 $ 2,660 ======= ======= ======= Cash paid during the year for interest, net of amounts capitalized $ 2,349 $ 1,295 $ 2,478 ======= ======= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands) Common Stock Unrealized ---------------- Paid-in Holding Retained Shares(1) Amount(1) Capital(1)Gain(Loss) Earnings - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- September 30, 1995 13,258 $13,258 $48,142 $1,328 $32,164 Unrealized holding gain at September 30, 1995 realized upon sale of securities in 1996 --- --- --- (1,482) --- Decrease in unrealized holding loss --- --- --- 15 --- Exercises of employee stock options 124 124 637 --- --- Net income --- --- --- --- 11,368 ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ September 30, 1996 13,382 13,382 48,779 (139) 43,532 Decrease in unrealized holding loss --- --- --- 27 --- Exercises of employee stock options 164 164 855 --- --- Tax benefit from exercises of employee stock options --- --- 470 --- --- Net income --- --- --- --- 15,619 ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ September 30, 1997 13,546 13,546 50,104 (112) 59,151 Increase in unrealized holding loss --- --- --- (43) --- Exercises of employee stock options 79 79 579 --- --- Tax benefit from exercises of employee stock options --- --- 1,098 --- --- Net income --- --- --- --- 39,364 ------ ------- -------- ------- ------- September 30, 1998 13,625 $13,625 $51,781 $ (155) $98,515 ====== ======= ======== ======= ======= - --------------------- NOTES - (1) Adjusted for 100% stock dividend declared in November, 1997. (2) Preferred stock, no par value, of 1,000,000 shares was authorized in 1975 and no shares have been issued. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Atwood Oceanics, Inc. and Subsidiaries NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 - NATURE OF OPERATIONS Atwood Oceanics, Inc. together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively referred to herein as the "Company"), is engaged in the business of international offshore drilling of exploratory and developmental oil and gas wells and related support, management and consulting services. Presently, the Company owns and operates a modern fleet of seven mobile offshore rigs and one modular platform rig, as well as manages the operations of two operator-owned platform rigs in Northwest Australia. The Company also owns a fifty percent interest in a new generation platform rig. Currently, the Company is involved in active operations in the territorial waters of Australia, Malaysia, Egypt, Philippines, Italy, United States and India. Demand for drilling equipment is dependent on the exploration and development programs of oil and gas companies, which is in turn influenced by the financial conditions of such companies, by general economic conditions, by prices of oil and gas, and from time to time, by political considerations and policies. The Company's business operations are subject to the risks associated with a business having a limited number of customers for which it can operate at any given time. A decrease in the drilling programs of customers in the areas where the Company is employed may adversely affect the Company's revenues. The contracts under which the Company operates its drilling rigs are obtained either through individual negotiations with the customer or by submitting proposals in competition with the other drilling contractors and vary in their terms and conditions. The Company competes with several other drilling contractors, most of which are substantially larger than the Company and possess appreciably greater financial and other resources. Price competition is generally the most important factor in the drilling industry, but the technical capability of specialized drilling equipment and personnel at the time and place required by customers are also important. Other competitive factors include work force experience, rig suitability, efficiency, condition of equipment, reputation and customer relations. The Company believes that it competes favorably with respect to these factors. NOTE 2 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Atwood Oceanics, Inc. ("AOI") and all of its wholly owned domestic and foreign subsidiaries. The Company's undivided 50 percent interest in RIG-200 is accounted for using the proportionate consolidation method (See Note 4). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Foreign exchange - The U.S. dollar is the functional currency for all areas of operations of the Company. Accordingly, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are remeasured to U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange in effect at the end of the year, items of income and expense are remeasured at average monthly rates, and property and equipment and other nonmonetary amounts are remeasured at historical rates. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions and remeasurements are included in drilling costs in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company incurred foreign exchange losses of $ 1 million and $.7 million in 1998 and 1997, respectively, with a foreign exchange gain of $.2 million in 1996. Property and equipment - Property and equipment is recorded at cost. Interest costs related to property under construction are capitalized as a component of construction costs. Interest capitalized during fiscal 1998 and 1997 totaled $1.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively. Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives of the various classifications of assets: Years --------- Drilling vessels and related equipment 5-15 Drill pipe 3 Furniture and Other 3-10 Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged against income as incurred; major replacements and upgrades are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset as determined upon completion of the work. The cost and related accumulated depreciation of assets sold, retired or otherwise disposed are removed from the accounts at the time of disposition, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated statements of operations for the applicable period. Deferred costs - The Company defers the net costs of moving a drilling rig to a new area and amortizes such costs on a straight-line basis over the life of the applicable drilling contract. During fiscal years 1998 and 1997, the Company received sufficient mobilization revenues on all rig moves to more than cover all mobilization costs. Thus, there were no unamortized mobilization costs at September 30, 1998 or 1997. The Company defers the costs of scheduled drydocking and charges such costs to expense over the period to the next scheduled drydocking (normally 30 months). Federal income taxes - The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 109 "Accounting for Income Taxes". Under SFAS No. 109, deferred income taxes are recorded to reflect the tax consequences on future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year-end given the provisions of enacted tax laws. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, based upon management's estimates, it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in a future period. Revenue recognition - The Company accounts for drilling and management contract revenues using the percentage of completion method of accounting, under which revenues are recognized on a daily basis as earned. Mobilization revenues are first used to cover the costs of mobilization with the excess revenues deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the applicable drilling contract. At September 30, 1998 and 1997, deferred revenues totaling $12.1 million and $9.3 million, respectively, were included in Deferred Credits on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in banks and highly liquid debt instruments which mature within three months of the date of purchase. Receivables - Based upon the Company's historical collection of accounts receivable, the Company has not established an allowance for doubtful accounts. Investments - Investments in held-to-maturity securities are stated at the amortized cost at the balance sheet date. The Company has the ability and intent to hold such securities to maturity. At September 30, 1998 and 1997, investments in available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value with the unrealized holding loss, net of deferred tax, included in shareholders' equity. Earnings per common share - In fiscal 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 128, "Earnings per Share". Under SFAS No. 128, primary earnings per share ("EPS") is replaced by "Basic" EPS, which excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. "Diluted" EPS reflects the issuance of additional shares in connection with the assumed conversion of stock options. As required, all prior-period EPS information has been restated. The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share under SFAS 128 for each of the past three years is as follows: (in thousands, except per share amounts) Per Share Net Income Shares Amount Fiscal 1998: Basic earnings per share $ 39,364 13,592 $ 2.90 Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options --- 292 (.06) ========================================================================= Diluted earnings per share $ 39,364 13,884 $ 2.84 ========================================================================= Fiscal 1997: Basic earnings per share $ 15,619 13,474 $ 1.16 Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options --- 241 (.02) ========================================================================= Diluted earnings per share $ 15,619 13,715 $ 1.14 ========================================================================= Fiscal 1996: Basic earnings per share $ 11,368 13,328 $ .85 Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options --- 216 (.01) ========================================================================= Diluted earnings per share $ 11,368 13,544 $ .84 ========================================================================= Stock-Based Compensation - The Company accounts for employee stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees". Accordingly, the adoption of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" in fiscal 1996 had no effect on the Company's results of operations. Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. NOTE 3 - SECURITIES HELD FOR INVESTMENT All of the Company's investments in equity securities are classified as "available-for-sale" and accordingly, are reflected in the September 30, 1998 and 1997 Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, with the aggregate unrealized gain or loss, net of related deferred tax liability or asset, included in shareholders' equity. All of the Company's investment in United States Treasury Bonds (which mature in 2000 and 2001) are classified as "held-to-maturity" and, accordingly, are reflected in the September 30, 1998 and 1997 Consolidated Balance Sheets at amortized cost. There were no sales of securities during fiscal 1998 or 1997. During fiscal 1996, 32,000 shares of Mobil Corporation common stock were sold for $3.7 million and resulting in realized gains, using average cost, of $2.8 million. An analysis of the Company's investment in marketable securities is as follows (in thousands): Unrealized Amortized Cost Gain (Loss) Fair Value --------------- ------------- --------------- September 30, 1998 - Equity Securities $ 561 $ (238) $ 323 United States Treasury Bonds 22,585 1,782 24,367 -------- -------- ------- $ 23,146 $ 1,544 $24,690 ======== ======== ======= September 30, 1997 - Equity Securities $ 561 $ (172) $ 389 United States Treasury Bonds 22,581 1,429 24,010 ------ ------- ------ $ 23,142 $ 1,257 $ 24,399 ======== ======== ======= NOTE 4 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT VICKSBURG - In December, 1997, the VICSKSBURG was mobilized from Australia to a Singapore shipyard to undergo an approximate $35 million refurbishment and upgrade project, of which $30 million was expended during fiscal 1998. Following completion of this project in November, 1998, the rig is being mobilized to India to commence a one-year plus option contract. ATWOOD FALCON - In June, 1998, the ATWOOD FALCON was relocated from Philippines to a Singapore shipyard to undergo an approximately $50 million water-depth upgrade, of which $30 million was expended during fiscal 1998. Following completion of the project in November, 1998, the rig has commenced drilling under the three-year phase two portion of its 1996 contract. Pursuant to the contract, the Company will receive $11.2 million in mobilization fees, of which $6.3 million was received at September 30, 1998 and recorded to Deferred Credits. These fees, net after mobilization costs, will be amortized into revenues over the three-year contract period. ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS - During fiscal year 1997, the ATWOOD SOUTHERN CROSS was mobilized from Australia to a Singapore shipyard, refurbished and upgraded to achieve 2,000 feet water-depth drilling capability at an aggregate cost of approximately $35 million. During November, 1997, the rig was mobilized from Singapore to Australia to commence working under a contract which it completed in September, 1998. While waiting for a new contract opportunity, the rig is currently idle in Australia. ATWOOD HUNTER - In fiscal 1997, the ATWOOD HUNTER was upgraded to achieve up to 3,500 feet water-depth drilling capability and relocated from Southeast Asia to the United States Gulf of Mexico at an aggregate cost of approximately $40 million. The rig has two more years remaining on its three-year contract with British-Borneo Petroleum Inc. The contract provided for the payment of a $10 million mobilization fee of which $6.4 million (net after mobilization costs) was recorded to Deferred Credits and is being amortized into revenues over the three-year contract period, with an unamortized balance of $4.2 million at September 30, 1998. RIG 200 - RIG-200 (a modular platform rig built in 1995) is owned 50 percent by the Company and 50 percent by Helmerich & Payne, Inc. (current owner of 22 percent of the Company's outstanding common stock). Since the Company has a 50 percent undivided ownership interest in RIG-200 and is actively involved in its operations, the Company accounts for its investment in the rig on a proportionate consolidation method. Accordingly, the Company's $12 million investment in RIG-200 is reflected in "Drilling Vessels, Equipment and Drill Pipe" in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, with 50 percent of the rig's operating results for fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996 reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations. At September 30, 1998, Accounts Payable included approximately $950,000 payable to Helmerich & Payne, Inc. relating to RIG-200 operations, which the Company paid in October, 1998. NOTE 5 - DEBT LONG-TERM DEBT - A summary of long-term debt is as follows (in thousands): September 30, ----------------------- 1998 1997 ----------- -------- Revolving credit agreement, bearing interest (market adjustable) at approximately 7 percent per annum at September 30, 1998 $ 72,000 $ 58,000 Term note, bearing interest at 6 percent per annum 750 1,500 -------- ------- 72,750 59,500 Less - current maturities 750 750 -------- ------- $ 72,000 $ 58,750 ======== ======== In July, 1997, the Company entered into a $125 million revolving credit facility with a bank group. The revolving line of credit converts to a reducing facility commencing on March 31, 1999, with commitment reduction of $8.3 million per quarter until final maturity on March 31, 2002. The bank group's collateral for this revolving credit facility consists principally of preferred mortgages on the ATWOOD HUNTER, ATWOOD EAGLE and the RICHMOND plus the assigment of $20 million in market value of United States Treasury Bonds. The credit facility prohibits the Company from incurring any additional indebtedness in excess of $5 million, disposing of any material assets, paying dividends or repurchasing any of the Company's outstanding common stock. The proceeds borrowed under this revolving credit facility have been used to repay the notes payable to a prior bank group and to fund capital expenditures. The maturities of long-term debt are as follows (in thousands): FISCAL YEAR AMOUNT 1999 $ 750 2000 5,100(1) 2001 33,200 2002 33,700 -------- $ 72,750 ======== (1) Subsequent to September 30, 1998, an additional $8 million was borrowed under the credit facility. The additional $8 million will be due in 2000. LINE OF CREDIT - The Company has a $3 million unsecured line of credit with a bank to support issuance, when required, of standby letters of guarantee and the Indian tax guarantee (see Note 6). At September 30, 1998, standby letters of guarantee in the aggregate amount of approximately $3 million were outstanding under this facility. NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES Domestic and foreign income (loss) before income taxes for the three years in the period ended September 30, 1998 are as follows (in thousands): Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 -------- -------- --------- Domestic income $ 39,553 $ 14,623 $ 17,508 Foreign income (loss) 20,766 10,755 (1,665) ------- -------- --------- $60,319 $ 25,378 $ 15,843 ======= ======== ========= The provision (benefit) for domestic and foreign taxes on income consists of the following (in thousands): Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 -------- ------- ------- Current domestic provision $ 11,487 $ 5,736 $ 452 Deferred domestic provision (benefit) 3,970 (330) 1,400 Current foreign provision 5,498 4,353 2,623 -------- ------- ------- $ 20,955 $ 9,759 $ 4,475 ======== ======= ======= The components of the deferred income tax assets (liabilities) as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 are summarized as follows (in thousands): September 30, ------------------- 1998 1997 ------- ------- Deferred tax assets - Net operating loss carryforwards $ 2,860 $ 2,970 Book reserves 1,200 1,260 Deferred mobilization revenues 2,100 3,210 ----- ----- 6,160 7,440 ----- ----- Deferred tax liabilities - Difference in book and tax basis of equipment 7,360 4,940 Deferred charges 450 160 Unrealized holding loss available-for-sale securities (80) (60) ------ ------ 7,730 5,040 ------ ----- Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) before valuation allowance (1,570) 2,400 Valuation allowance (2,370) (2,390) ------- ------- $(3,940) $ 10 ========= ======= Net current deferred tax assets $ 880 $ 1,820 Net noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (4,820) (1,810) ------- -------- $(3,940) $ 10 ======== ======== U.S. deferred taxes have not been provided on foreign earnings totaling approximately $20.6 million which are permanently invested abroad. Foreign tax credits totaling approximately $8.8 million are available to reduce the U.S. taxes on such amounts. The differences between the statutory and the effective income tax rate are as follows: Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 ------ ------ ------ Statutory income tax rate 35% 35% 34% Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from - Foreign tax rate differentials, net of foreign tax credit utilization (1) 10 12 Change in valuation allowance --- (2) (15) Investment tax credit utilization --- (5) --- Other, net 1 --- (3) ---- ---- ---- Effective income tax rate 35% 38% 28% ==== ==== ==== The Company has United States net operating loss carryforwards totaling $8.2 million which expire in fiscal years 2001 through 2003. Due to various utilization limitations, management estimates that a significant portion of this tax attribute will not be available to reduce future tax obligations; accordingly, a $2.4 million valuation allowance is recorded as of September 30, 1998. For several years, the Company has pursued legal action to collect certain tax refund claims in India. As a result of favorable court decisions in India, and upon the Company providing letters of guarantee, the Company received tax refunds in 1997 and 1994 of $ 1.1 million and $.6 million, respectively, (net of taxes on interest and other related expense), which are reflected in the September 30, 1998 and 1997 Consolidated Balance Sheets as other Deferred Credits, pending ultimate resolution of the issue by the Indian High Court. NOTE 7 - CAPITAL STOCK COMMON STOCK DIVIDEND - On November 19, 1997, the Company effected a 100 percent common stock dividend resulting in the issuance of approximately 6,775,000 shares of common stock and the transfer of approximately $ 6,775,000 from paid-in capital to common stock which represented the par value of additional shares issued. All share and per share information has been retroactively restated in the Consolidated Financial Statements to reflect the stock dividend. STOCK OPTION PLANS - The Company has an incentive equity plan ("1996 Plan") whereby 670,000 shares of common stock may be granted to officers and key employees through February 12, 2007. At September 30, 1998, options to purchase 307,000 shares were outstanding under this Plan. The Company also has options outstanding to purchase 259,200 shares under a stock plan ("1990 Plan"). Under both plans, the exercise price of each option equals the market price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant, all outstanding options have a maximum term of 10 years, and options vest over a period from the second to the fifth year from the date of grant. A summary of the status of the Company's Plans as of September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996, and changes during the years ended on those dates is presented below: Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 ------------------ ------------------ ----------------- Weighted- Weighted- Weighted Average Average Average Number of Exercise Number of Exercise Number of Exercise Options Price Options Price Options Price Outstanding at beginning of Year 444,700 $ 15.42 506,800 $ 9.46 480,200 $ 6.15 Granted 208,000 33.07 112,500 28.00 151,000 17.25 Exercised (78,500) 8.39 (164,000) 6.22 (124,400) 6.12 Forfeited (8,000) 23.73 (10,600) 6.46 --- --- Expired --- ---- --- --- --- --- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Outstanding at end of year 566,200 $ 22.76 444,700 15.42 506,800 $ 9.46 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Exercisable at end of year 88,950 $ 8.49 69,450 $ 5.67 164,676 $ 6.02 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Available for grant at end of Year 366,000 567,000 --- Weighted-average fair value of options granted during the year $ 14.21 $ 23.36 $ 6.68 The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at September 30, 1998: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable -------------------------------------- --------------------- Weighted- Average Remaining Weighted- Weighted- Range of Contractural Average Average Exercise Exercise Prices Shares Life Exercise Price Shares Price - ----------------- ------- ------------ -------------- ---------- -------- $ 4.87 to 5.38 38,000 4.1 years $ 5.18 38,000 $ 5.18 6.50 to 6.69 82,650 5.6 years 6.61 31,150 6.62 16.63 to 18.97 235,050 8.6 years 17.42 19,800 17.83 28.00 107,500 8.5 years 28.00 --- --- 48.75 to 52.06 103,000 9.2 years 48.94 --- --- ------- ----- ------ ------ 4.87 to 52.06 566,200 7.9 years $ 22.76 88,950 $ 8.49 ======= ======= ====== ======= As permitted by SFAS No. 123, the Company applies APB Opinion No. 25 and related Interpretations in accounting for its stock option plans. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized from the granting of options pursuant to its stock option plans. Had compensation costs been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for awards made in fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996 consistent with the method of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below (in thousands, except for per share amounts): Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 --------- ---------- ---------- Net Income As reported $ 39,364 $ 15,619 $ 11,368 Pro forma 38,830 15,404 11,291 Earnings per share As reported - Basic 2.90 1.16 .85 Diluted 2.84 1.14 .84 Pro forma Basic 2.86 1.14 .85 Diluted 2.80 1.12 .83 The fair value of grants made in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions used: fiscal 1998 - risk free interest rate of 5.4 percent, expected volatility of 42 percent, expected lives of 5 years and no dividend yield; - fiscal 1997 - risk-free interest rate of 6.7 percent, expected volatility of 33.6 percent, expected lives of 5 years and no dividend yield; fiscal 1996 - risk-free interest rate of 5.8 percent, expected volatility of 33.7 percent, expected lives of 5 years and no dividend yield. NOTE 8 - RETIREMENT PLAN The Company has a contributory retirement plan (the "Plan") under which qualified participants may make contributions of up to 5% of their compensation, as defined (the basic contribution). The Company makes contributions to the Plan equal to twice the basic contributions. Company contributions vest 100 percent to each participant beginning with the fourth year of participation. If a participant terminates employment before becoming fully vested, the unvested portion is credited to the Company's account and can be used only to offset Company contribution requirements. In fiscal 1998, the Company made cash contributions of approximately $1.3 million to the Plan and utilized no fortfeitures to reduce its contribution requirements. In fiscal 1997 and 1996, the Company used forfeitures of $84,000 and $58,000, respectively, to reduce its cash requirements, which resulted in actual contributions of approximately $.9 million and $.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 1998, there are approximately $100,000 of contribution forfeitures which can be utilized to reduce future Company cash contribution requirements. NOTE 9 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets approximated fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. Since the bank debt has a market adjustable interest rate, the carrying value approximated fair value as of fiscal year end 1998 and 1997. Although the $.7 million term note has a fixed 6 percent interest rate at September 30, 1998, it also approximated fair value. The Company's only financial instruments at September 30, 1998 and 1997 with a fair value different from carrying value are marketable securities; the difference of which is shown in Note 3. NOTE 10 - CONCENTRATION OF MARKET AND CREDIT RISK All of the Company's customers are in the oil and gas offshore exploration and production industry. This industry concentration has the potential to impact the Company's overall exposure to market and credit risks, either positively or negatively, in that the Company's customers could be affected by similar changes in economic, industry or other conditions. However, the Company believes that the credit risk posed by this industry concentration is offset by the creditworthiness of the Company's customer base. The Company's portfolio of accounts receivable is comprised of major international corporate entities and government organizations with stable payment experience. Historically, the Company's uncollectible accounts receivable have been immaterial, and typically, the Company does not require collateral for its receivables. Drilling revenues for fiscal 1998 include $35.2 million, $25.9 million and $20.4 million in revenues received from British-Borneo Petroleum Inc., ESSO Australian Limited/ESSO Production Malaysia, Inc. and Santos Ltd., respectively. Drilling revenues for fiscal 1997 include $24.3 million, $19.3 million and $16.9 million in revenues received from ESSO Australia Limited/ESSO Production Malaysia, Inc., Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc. and Carigali-Triton Operating Company Sdn. Bhd., respectively. Drilling revenues for fiscal 1996 include $25.6 million, $11.5 million and $8.4 million in revenues received from Esso Australia Limited/Esso Production Malaysia, Inc., Carigali-Triton Operating Company Sdn. Bhd. and Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc., respectively. NOTE 11 - NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS The Financial Accounting Standards Board has issued four new accounting standards; SFAS No. 130 "Reporting Comprehensive Income"; SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments for Enterprise and Related Information"; SFAS No. 132, "Employer's Disclosure about Pension and Other Post Retirement Benefits" and SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities". SFAS 130, 131 and 132 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997. SFAS 130 requires the reporting and display of comprehensive income. While the Company does have certain comprehensive income items, this standard will not affect the Company's reported consolidated net income or cash flows. SFAS 131 establishes standards for reporting financial and description information about a company's operating segments. Management is currently analyzing the impact of SFAS 131, but does not expect the standard to materially change its current segment disclosure. SFAS 132 is a disclosure oriented standard and will not affect the Company's reported consolidated income or cash flows. SFAS 133 is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 14, 1999. This Statement establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. In the opinion of management, the adoption of Statement 133 will not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements. NOTE 12 - OPERATIONS BY GEOGRAPHIC AREAS The Company is engaged in offshore contract drilling. The contract drilling operations consist of contracting Company owned or managed offshore drilling equipment primarily to major oil and gas exploration companies. Operating income is contract revenues less operating costs, general and administrative expenses and depreciation. In computing operating margin for each geographic area, none of the following items were considered: other income (expense) and domestic and foreign income taxes. Identifiable assets are those assets that are used by the Company in operations in each geographic area. General corporate assets are principally investments in marketable securities. A summary of revenues, operating margin and identifiable assets by geographic areas is as follows (in thousands): Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal 1998 1997 1996 ---------- --------- -------- CONTRACT REVENUES: United States $ 46,454 $10,585 $ 6,208 Australia 44,445 27,599 31,043 Southeast Asia 28,661 31,583 33,774 Mediterranean Sea 18,699 --- --- Africa 13,550 19,315 8,430 -------- -------- -------- $151,809 $ 89,082 $ 79,455 ======== ======== ======== OPERATING INCOME: United States $24,102 $ 5,642 $ 42 Australia 13,822 8,236 8,018 Southeast Asia 9,911 8,235 6,316 Mediterranean Sea 12,274 --- --- Africa 8,819 8,200 3,831 India/Middle East --- --- (34) General and administrative expenses (7,331) (6,100) (5,113) ---------- -------- -------- $ 61,597 $ 24,213 $ 13,060 ========== ======== ======== IDENTIFIABLE ASSETS: United States $ 76,557 $ 81,800 $ 31,071 Australia 59,388 49,713 19,365 Southeast Asia 97,736 40,387 64,163 Mediterranean Sea 24,908 --- --- Africa 2 20,457 21,780 India/Middle East 238 3 3 General corporate 22,908 22,970 22,927 -------- -------- -------- $281,737 $215,330 $159,309 ======== ======== ======== NOTE 13 - QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) Summarized quarterly results for fiscal years 1998 and 1997 are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): QUARTERS ENDED ----------------------------------------------- DECEMBER 31, MARCH 31, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, ----------- -------- -------- ------------- 1998 Revenues $ 36,224 $ 41,428 $ 39,294 $ 34,863 Income before income taxes 13,289 17,966 15,503 13,561 Net income 8,677 11,682 10,034 8,971 Earnings per common share (1) - Basic .64 .86 .74 .66 Diluted .63 .84 .72 .65 1997 Revenues $ 22,093 $ 20,805 $22,069 $ 24,115 Income before income taxes 5,734 5,117 5,660 8,867 Net income 3,919 3,114 3,662 4,924 Earnings per common share (1) - Basic .29 .23 .27 .37 Diluted .29 .23 .27 .36 - ------------ (1) Net income per common share has been restated in accordance with SFAS No. 128, as discussed in Note 2. The sum of the individual quarterly net income per common share amounts may not agree with year-to-date net income per common share as each quarterly computation is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during that period. DIRECTORS OFFICERS ROBERT W. BURGESS (3) JOHN R. IRWIN Senior Vice President President, Chief Executive Officer CIGNA Investment Division CIGNA Companies JAMES M. HOLLAND Bloomfield, Connecticut Senior Vice President and Secretary GEORGE S. DOTSON (1, 2, 3) GLEN P. KELLEY Vice President Vice President - Contracts and Helmerich & Payne, Inc. Administration President LARRY P. TILL Helmerich & Payne International Vice President - Operations Drilling Co. Tulsa, Oklahoma W. H. HELMERICH, III Chairman Helmerich & Payne, Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma HANS HELMERICH (1, 3) President, Chief Executive Officer Helmerich & Payne, Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma JOHN R. IRWIN (1) President, Chief Executive Officer Atwood Oceanics, Inc. Houston, Texas WILLIAM J. MORRISSEY (2) Bank Executive, Retired Elkhorn, Wisconsin (1) Executive Committee (2) Audit Committee (3) Compensation Committee ANNUAL MEETING The annual meeting of stockholders will be held on February 11, 1999 at the Company's principal office: 15835 Park Ten Place Drive, Houston, Texas. A formal notice of the meeting together with a proxy statement and form of proxy will be mailed to stockholders about January 15, 1999. TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR Bank One Corporation, N.A. P. O. Box 25848 100 N. Broadway, 7th Floor (73102) Oklahoma City, OK 73125 FORM 10-K A copy of the Company's Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is available free on request by writing to: Secretary, Atwood Oceanics, Inc. P. O. Box 218350 Houston, Texas 77218 STOCK PRICE INFORMATION - On August 6, 1997, the common stock of Atwood Oceanics, Inc. ceased trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ) under the symbol "ATWD" and commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol "ATW". No cash dividends on common stock were paid in fiscal year 1997 or 1998, and none are anticipated in the foreseeable future. As of September 30, 1998, there were over 750 beneficial owners of the common stock of Atwood Oceanics, Inc. As of November 30, 1998, the closing sale price of the common stock of Atwood Oceanics, Inc., as reported by NYSE, was $18.75 per share. The following table sets forth the range of high and low sales prices per share of common stock as reported by NASDAQ and the NYSE for the periods indicated, after retroactive restatement for the November 1997 100% common stock dividend. Fiscal Fiscal 1997 1998 ---------------- ----------------- QUARTERS ENDED LOW HIGH LOW HIGH - -------------- ------- ------- ------- ------ December 31 $22 3/8 $32 3/4 $40 1/16 $61 5/8 March 31 26 3/4 35 1/2 38 3/4 55 1/4 June 30 28 7/8 35 1/8 37 3/8 61 3/8 September 30 33 3/4 57 1/16 15 1/16 40 3/4 APPENDIX The following graphic and image information in the form of "Bar Charts" are located in the Annual Report immediately following "Highlights". BAR CHART - CONTRACT REVENUES ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $66.0 $72.2 $79.5 $89.1 $151.8 BAR CHART - EARNINGS, BEFORE DEPRECIATION, INTEREST, TAXES AND INVESTMENT INCOME ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $17.3 $16.9 $22.8 $34.2 $79.2 BAR CHART - OPERATING CASH FLOW ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $16.8 $14.9 $20.3 $25.8 $61.4 BAR CHART - NET INCOME (LOSS) ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $6.2 $7.1 $11.4 $15.6 $39.4 BAR CHART - CAPITAL EXPENDITURES ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $6.4 $25.7 $9.5 $62.8 $79.6 BAR CHART - CASH AND SECURITIES HELD FOR INVESTMENT ($ MILLIONS) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 - ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- $41.0 $38.0 $40.5 $42.2 $34.5