SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934 - For the quarter ended September 30, 1998
OR
|_| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 1-640
NL INDUSTRIES, INC.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New Jersey 13-5267260
- ------------------------------- -------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
16825 Northchase Drive, Suite 1200, Houston, Texas 77060-2544
- -------------------------------------------------- -------------------
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (281) 423-3300
-------------------
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, and (2) had been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No
Number of shares of common stock outstanding on November 9, 1998: 52,127,813
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX
Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements.
Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 1997
and September 30, 1998 3-4
Consolidated Statements of Income - Three months
and nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 5-6
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
- Three months and nine months ended September 30,
1997 and 1998 7
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity
- Nine months ended September 30, 1998 8
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Nine
months ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 9-10
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 11-17
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations 18-25
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 25
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 25-26
- 2 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
December 31, September 30,
ASSETS 1997 1998
------------ -------------
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents, including
restricted cash of $9,751 and $12,660 ......... $ 106,145 $ 320,823
Accounts and notes receivable .................. 148,676 157,829
Refundable income taxes ........................ 1,941 10,377
Inventories .................................... 192,780 191,568
Prepaid expenses ............................... 3,348 6,635
Deferred income taxes .......................... 1,642 1,923
---------- ----------
Total current assets ....................... 454,532 689,155
---------- ----------
Other assets:
Marketable securities .......................... 17,270 20,057
Investment in joint ventures ................... 172,721 171,202
Prepaid pension cost ........................... 23,848 24,258
Other .......................................... 18,592 12,554
---------- ----------
Total other assets ......................... 232,431 228,071
---------- ----------
Property and equipment:
Land ........................................... 19,479 19,509
Buildings ...................................... 150,090 142,484
Machinery and equipment ........................ 616,309 581,255
Mining properties .............................. 88,617 82,636
Construction in progress ....................... 2,577 8,420
---------- ----------
877,072 834,304
Less accumulated depreciation and depletion .... 465,843 454,275
---------- ----------
Net property and equipment ................. 411,229 380,029
---------- ----------
$1,098,192 $1,297,255
========== ==========
- 3 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
(In thousands)
December 31, September 30,
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 1997 1998
------------ -------------
Current liabilities:
Notes payable ................................ $ 13,968 $ 35,864
Current maturities of long-term debt ......... 77,374 184,460
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities ..... 161,730 206,260
Payable to affiliates ........................ 11,512 10,726
Income taxes ................................. 10,910 14,108
Deferred income taxes ........................ 891 931
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities ................ 276,385 452,349
----------- -----------
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt ............................... 666,779 304,060
Deferred income taxes ........................ 132,797 190,310
Accrued pension cost ......................... 44,389 41,738
Accrued postretirement benefits cost ......... 50,951 43,492
Other ........................................ 148,903 118,312
----------- -----------
Total noncurrent liabilities ............. 1,043,819 697,912
----------- -----------
Minority interest .............................. 257 624
----------- -----------
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock ................................. 8,355 8,355
Additional paid-in capital ................... 759,281 773,864
Accumulated deficit .......................... (495,421) (144,800)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss ......... (129,513) (126,170)
Treasury stock ............................... (364,971) (364,879)
----------- -----------
Total shareholders' equity (deficit) ..... (222,269) 146,370
----------- -----------
$ 1,098,192 $ 1,297,255
=========== ===========
Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
- 4 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share data)
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
---------------------- ----------------------
1997 1998 1997 1998
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Revenues and other income:
Net sales ................. $ 210,344 $ 221,520 $ 629,087 $ 685,794
Other, net ................ 2,956 7,500 11,718 20,769
--------- --------- --------- ---------
213,300 229,020 640,805 706,563
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales ............. 162,499 151,782 502,353 476,026
Selling, general and
administrative ........... 30,994 32,069 130,595 98,337
Interest .................. 16,445 15,066 49,160 46,917
--------- --------- --------- ---------
209,938 198,917 682,108 621,280
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) from
continuing operations
before income taxes and
minority interest ..... 3,362 30,103 (41,303) 85,283
Income tax expense (benefit) (608) (1,273) (1,714) 14,174
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) from
continuing operations
before minority
interest .............. 3,970 31,376 (39,589) 71,109
Minority interest ........... 23 17 72 36
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) from
continuing operations . 3,947 31,359 (39,661) 71,073
Discontinued operations 5,814 -- 15,956 287,396
Extraordinary item - early
extinguishment of debt, net
of tax benefit of $1,293 and
$2,568, respectively ....... -- (2,400) - (4,766)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss) ..... $ 9,761 $ 28,959 $ (23,705) $ 353,703
========= ========= ========= =========
- 5 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (CONTINUED)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
----------------------- ------------------------
1997 1998 1997 1998
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Basic earnings per share:
Continuing operations .......... $ .08 $ .61 $ (.78) $ 1.38
Discontinued operations ........ .11 -- .32 5.60
Extraordinary item ............. -- (.05) -- (.09)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (loss) ............ $ .19 $ .56 $ (.46) $ 6.89
========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted earnings per share:
Continuing operations .......... $ .08 $ .60 $ (.78) $ 1.37
Discontinued operations ........ .11 -- .32 5.52
Extraordinary item ............. -- (.05) -- (0.09)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (loss) ............ $ .19 $ .55 $ (.46) $ 6.80
========== ========== ========== ==========
Shares used in the calculation
of earnings per share:
Basic .......................... 51,146 51,444 51,143 51,356
Dilutive impact of stock options 439 750 -- 668
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted ........................ 51,585 52,194 51,143 52,024
========== ========== ========== ==========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
- 6 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------- --------------------
1997 1998 1997 1998
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss) ................. $ 9,761 $ 28,959 $(23,705) $353,703
-------- -------- -------- --------
Other comprehensive income
(loss), net of tax:
Marketable securities
adjustment ..................... 2,862 913 4,829 1,812
Currency translation
adjustment ..................... 935 4,603 (6,570) 1,531
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total other comprehensive
income (loss) ................ 3,797 5,516 (1,741) 3,343
-------- -------- -------- --------
Comprehensive income (loss) ..... $ 13,558 $ 34,475 $(25,446) $357,046
======== ======== ======== ========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
- 7 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Nine months ended September 30, 1998
(In thousands)
Accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss)
Additional ---------------------------
Common paid-in Accumulated Currency Marketable Treasury
stock capital deficit translation securities stock Total
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------- ------------ ---------- ---------
Balance at December 31, 1997 ......... $ 8,355 $ 759,281 $(495,421) $(133,810) $ 4,297 $(364,971) $(222,269)
Net income ........................... -- -- 353,703 -- -- -- 353,703
Other comprehensive income (loss), net -- -- -- 1,531 1,812 -- 3,343
Dividends ............................ -- -- (3,082) -- -- -- (3,082)
Cash received upon settlement of
shareholder derivative lawsuit, net
of $3,198 in legal fees and expenses -- 11,211 -- -- -- -- 11,211
Tax benefit of stock options exercised -- 3,372 -- -- -- -- 3,372
Treasury stock reissued .............. -- -- -- -- -- 92 92
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Balance at September 30, 1998 ........ $ 8,355 $ 773,864 $(144,800) $(132,279) $ 6,109 $(364,879) $ 146,370
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
- 8 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1998
(In thousands)
1997 1998
--------- ---------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss) ................................ $ (23,705) $ 353,703
Depreciation, depletion and amortization ......... 25,711 25,531
Noncash interest expense ......................... 17,040 17,291
Deferred income taxes ............................ (1,910) 1,958
Change in accounting for environmental
remediation costs ............................... 30,000 --
Discontinued operations:
Net gain from sale of Rheox .................... -- (286,071)
Income from operations of Rheox ................ (15,956) (1,325)
Other, net ....................................... (9,848) (9,453)
--------- ---------
21,332 101,634
Change in assets and liabilities:
Accounts and notes receivable .................. (29,417) (26,697)
Inventories .................................... 45,742 (13,670)
Prepaid expenses ............................... (2,967) (3,501)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities ....... 14,162 12,994
Income taxes ................................... 7,293 (14,572)
Other, net ..................................... (5,598) 11,808
Rheox, net ....................................... 20,266 (25,864)
--------- ---------
Net cash provided by operating activities .... 70,813 42,132
--------- ---------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sale of Rheox ...................... -- 435,080
Capital expenditures ............................. (22,154) (12,731)
Collection of note receivable .................... -- 6,875
Investment in joint venture, net ................. 5,836 (371)
Proceeds from disposition of property
and equipment ................................... 2,912 486
Rheox, net ....................................... (1,185) (26)
--------- ---------
Net cash provided (used) by investing
activities .................................. (14,591) 429,313
--------- ---------
- 9 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
Nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1998
(In thousands)
1997 1998
--------- ---------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Indebtedness:
Borrowings ....................................... $ -- $ 30,491
Principal payments ............................... (173,739) (170,853)
Deferred financing costs ......................... (2,343) --
Settlement of shareholder derivative lawsuit, net .. -- 11,211
Dividends .......................................... -- (3,082)
Rheox, net ......................................... 108,775 (117,500)
Other, net ......................................... 252 90
--------- ---------
Net cash used by financing activities .......... (67,055) (249,643)
--------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents:
Net change from:
Operating, investing and financing activities .... (10,833) 221,802
Currency translation ............................. (1,068) 506
Sale of Rheox .................................... -- (7,630)
Balance at beginning of period ..................... 114,115 106,145
--------- ---------
Balance at end of period ........................... $ 102,214 $ 320,823
========= =========
Supplemental disclosures - cash paid for:
Interest, net of amounts capitalized ............... $ 35,262 $ 21,972
Income taxes, net .................................. 1,317 47,839
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
- 10 -
NL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 - ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION:
NL Industries, Inc. conducts its titanium dioxide pigments ("TiO2")
operations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kronos, Inc. In January 1998 the
specialty chemicals business of Rheox, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL,
was sold. At September 30, 1998 Valhi, Inc. and Tremont Corporation, each
affiliates of Contran Corporation, held approximately 58% and 19%, respectively,
of NL's outstanding common stock, and together may be deemed to control NL. At
September 30, 1998 Contran and its subsidiaries held approximately 92% of
Valhi's outstanding common stock, and Valhi and other entities related to Harold
C. Simmons held approximately 53% of Tremont's outstanding common stock.
The consolidated balance sheet of NL Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries
(collectively, the "Company") at December 31, 1997 has been condensed from the
Company's audited consolidated financial statements at that date. The
consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 1998 and the consolidated statements
of income, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for the
interim periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 have been prepared by the
Company, without audit. In the opinion of management, all adjustments,
consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the
consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows have been
made. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily
indicative of the operating results for a full year or of future operations.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in
financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles have been condensed or omitted. Certain prior-year amounts have been
reclassified to conform to the current year presentation, including reporting
the Company's specialty chemicals business as a discontinued operation. The
accompanying consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction
with the consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997 (the "1997 Annual
Report").
The Company will adopt Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,
no later than the first quarter of 2000. SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting
standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments
embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. Under SFAS No. 133, all
derivatives will be recognized as either assets or liabilities and measured at
fair value. The accounting for changes in fair value of derivatives will depend
upon the intended use of the derivative. The Company is currently studying this
newly-issued accounting rule, and the impact of adopting SFAS No. 133, if any,
has not yet been determined but will be dependent upon the extent to which the
Company is then a party to derivative contracts or engaged in hedging
activities. At September 30, 1998 the Company is not a party to any derivative
contracts or engaged in any hedging activities covered by SFAS No. 133.
- 11 -
NOTE 2 - EARNINGS PER SHARE:
Basic earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share are
based on the weighted average common shares outstanding and the dilutive impact
of outstanding stock options.
NOTE 3 - BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION:
The Company's continuing operations are conducted by Kronos in one
business segment - TiO2.
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
---------------------- ----------------------
1997 1998 1997 1998
--------- --------- --------- ---------
(In thousands)
Net sales ......................... $ 210,344 $ 221,520 $ 629,087 $ 685,794
Other income, excluding
corporate ........................ 2,306 2,036 9,476 4,719
--------- --------- --------- ---------
212,650 223,556 638,563 690,513
Cost of sales ..................... 162,499 151,782 502,353 476,026
Selling, general and
administrative, excluding
corporate ........................ 25,243 26,750 85,798 83,339
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income .................. 24,908 45,024 50,412 131,148
General corporate income (expense):
Securities earnings, net ........ 590 4,345 1,817 12,747
Expenses, net ................... (5,691) (4,200) (44,372) (11,695)
Interest expense ................ (16,445) (15,066) (49,160) (46,917)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
$ 3,362 $ 30,103 $ (41,303) $ 85,283
========= ========= ========= =========
Corporate expenses, net decreased in the first nine months of 1998 due to
the $30 million noncash charge taken in the first quarter of 1997 related to the
adoption of a new method of accounting for certain environmental remediation
costs.
NOTE 4 - INVENTORIES:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
------------ -------------
(In thousands)
Raw materials ................................ $ 45,844 $ 37,984
Work in process .............................. 8,018 11,472
Finished products ............................ 107,427 107,468
Supplies ..................................... 31,491 34,644
-------- --------
$192,780 $191,568
======== ========
- 12 -
NOTE 5 - MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
Available-for-sale securities - noncurrent
marketable equity securities:
Unrealized gains ................................. $ 6,939 $ 11,254
Unrealized losses ................................ (328) (1,856)
Cost ............................................. 10,659 10,659
-------- --------
Aggregate market ............................. $ 17,270 $ 20,057
======== ========
NOTE 6 - INVESTMENT IN JOINT VENTURES:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
TiO2 manufacturing joint venture ............... $170,830 $171,202
Other .......................................... 1,891 --
-------- --------
$172,721 $171,202
======== ========
NOTE 7 - OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
Deferred financing costs, net .................. $ 9,973 $ 6,427
Intangible assets, net ......................... 4,228 2,613
Other .......................................... 4,391 3,514
------- -------
$18,592 $12,554
======= =======
NOTE 8 - ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
Accounts payable ......................... $ 64,698 $ 50,831
-------- --------
Accrued liabilities:
Employee benefits ...................... 40,110 35,169
Environmental costs .................... 9,000 48,146
Interest ............................... 6,966 15,371
Other .................................. 40,956 56,743
-------- --------
97,032 155,429
-------- --------
$161,730 $206,260
======== ========
- 13 -
NOTE 9 - OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
Environmental costs .......................... $125,502 $ 79,355
Insurance claims and expenses ................ 11,436 12,200
Employee benefits ............................ 10,835 10,626
Deferred income .............................. -- 13,333
Other ........................................ 1,130 2,798
-------- --------
$148,903 $118,312
======== ========
NOTE 10 - NOTES PAYABLE AND LONG-TERM DEBT:
December 31, September 30,
1997 1998
----------- -------------
(In thousands)
Notes payable - Kronos (DM 25,000 and
DM 60,500, respectively) .......................... $ 13,968 $ 35,864
======== ========
Long-term debt:
NL Industries:
11.75% Senior Secured Notes .................... $250,000 $244,000
13% Senior Secured Discount Notes .............. 169,857 118,583
-------- --------
419,857 362,583
-------- --------
Kronos:
DM bank credit facility (DM 288,322 and
DM 207,322, respectively) ..................... 161,085 124,419
Joint venture term loan ........................ 42,429 --
Other .......................................... 3,282 1,518
-------- --------
206,796 125,937
-------- --------
Rheox - bank term loan ........................... 117,500 --
-------- --------
744,153 488,520
Less current maturities ............................ 77,374 184,460
-------- --------
$666,779 $304,060
======== ========
The Company redeemed the 13% Senior Secured Discount Notes on October 15,
1998 at the redemption price of 106% of the principal amount, in accordance with
the terms of the Senior Secured Discount Notes indenture. As a result, the
accreted value of the Senior Secured Discount Notes has been classified as a
current liability at September 30, 1998.
- 14 -
NOTE 11 - INCOME TAXES:
The difference between the provision for income tax expense attributable
to income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest
and the amount that would be expected using the U.S. federal statutory income
tax rate of 35% is presented below.
Nine months ended
September 30,
--------------------
1997 1998
-------- --------
(In thousands)
Expected tax expense (benefit) ......................... $(14,456) $ 29,849
Non-U.S. tax rates ..................................... (462) 281
Incremental tax on income of companies not included
in NL's consolidated U.S. federal income tax return ... 2,171 2,142
Refund of prior-year dividend withholding tax .......... -- (8,219)
Change in valuation allowance .......................... 10,459 (9,798)
U.S. state income taxes ................................ -- 200
Other, net ............................................. 574 (281)
-------- --------
Income tax expense (benefit) ..................... $ (1,714) $ 14,174
======== ========
NOTE 12 - OTHER INCOME, NET:
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
-------------------- --------------------
1997 1998 1997 1998
-------- -------- -------- --------
(In thousands)
Corporate interest and dividend
income .......................... $ 869 $ 4,345 $ 1,817 $ 12,747
Currency transaction gains, net .. 155 986 3,220 2,703
Noncompete agreement income ...... -- 1,000 -- 2,667
Trade interest income ............ 759 525 2,047 1,562
Gain (loss) from disposition of .. 172
property and equipment .......... (311) 2,452 (130)
Other, net ....................... 1,484 472 2,182 1,220
-------- -------- -------- --------
$ 2,956 $ 7,500 $ 11,718 $ 20,769
======== ======== ======== ========
NOTE 13 - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:
The Company sold the net assets of its Rheox specialty chemicals business
for $465 million cash (before fees and expenses) in the first quarter of 1998,
including $20 million attributable to a five-year agreement by the Company not
to compete in the rheological products business. The Company recognized an
after-tax gain of approximately $286 million on the sale of this business
segment. A portion of the $380 million after-tax proceeds was used to reduce
outstanding indebtedness by approximately $231 million.
- 15 -
Condensed income statement data related to discontinued operations for the
interim periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 are as follows. Interest
expense has been allocated to discontinued operations based on the amount of
debt specifically attributed to Rheox's operations.
Nine months ended
September 30,
-----------------------
1997 1998
--------- ---------
(In thousands)
Operations:
Net sales ......................................... $ 111,336 $ 12,630
========= =========
Operating income .................................. $ 34,315 $ 2,900
Interest and other expenses ....................... 8,933 797
--------- ---------
Income before income taxes and minority
interest ..................................... 25,382 2,103
Income tax expense ................................ 9,463 778
Minority interest ................................. (37) --
--------- ---------
15,956 1,325
Gain from sale of Rheox, net of tax expense of
$86,222 -- 286,071
--------- ---------
$ 15,956 $ 287,396
========= =========
Condensed cash flow data for Rheox (excluding dividends paid to,
contributions received from and intercompany loans with NL) is presented below:
Nine months ended
September 30,
------------------------
1997 1998
---------- ---------
(In thousands)
Cash flows from:
Operating activities ........................... $ 20,266 $ (26,493)
Investing activities - capital expenditures .... (26)
and other ..................................... (1,185)
Financing activities - indebtedness, net ....... 108,775 (117,500)
--------- ---------
$ 127,856 $(144,019)
========= =========
NOTE 14 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
For descriptions of certain legal proceedings, income tax and other
commitments and contingencies related to the Company, reference is made to (i)
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations, (ii) Part II, Item 1 -"Legal Proceedings," (iii) the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 1998 and June 30,
1998, and (iv) the 1997 Annual Report.
- 16 -
In July 1998 the Company reached an agreement (the "Tioxide Purchase") to
(i) acquire the North American TiO2 operations of Imperial Chemical Industries
plc's ("ICI") subsidiary, Tioxide Group Limited, and a Tioxide TiO2 plant in
England, and (ii) cancel certain rights to chloride-process technology licensed
to Tioxide by the Company in connection with the formation of Louisiana Pigment
Company ("LPC") in 1993. The aggregate amount to be paid to ICI is approximately
$365 million, including a $30 million fee for the cancellation of technology
rights and approximately $50 million in working capital. The purchase is subject
to regulatory clearances, completion of the purchase by E.I. du Pont de Nemours
& Co. of ICI's remaining non-North American TiO2 business (the "DuPont
Purchase"), and other conditions customary to transactions of this type.
The operations to be acquired include Tioxide's 50%-interest in LPC, a
manufacturing joint venture of the Company and Tioxide that operates a
chloride-process TiO2 plant in Louisiana with capacity of approximately 120,000
metric tons per annum ("mtpa"); Tioxide's 75,000 mtpa sulfate-process TiO2 plant
in Grimsby, England; Tioxide's 52,000 mtpa finishing plant in Tracy, Quebec; and
Tioxide's North American marketing and distribution business.
Upon completion of the DuPont Purchase and the Tioxide Purchase, the
Company expects to become the world's third largest manufacturer of TiO2,
increasing its productive capacity by approximately 135,000 mtpa.
Assuming regulatory clearances are received in 1998, the Company expects
the Tioxide Purchase to close in the first quarter of 1999.
- 17 -
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three months ended % Nine months ended %
September 30, Change September 30, Change
------------------ ------ ------------------- ------
1997 1998 1997 1998
------ ------ ------ ------
(In millions) (In millions)
Net sales ................ $210.3 $221.5 +5% $629.1 $685.8 +9%
Operating income ......... $ 24.9 $ 45.0 +81% $ 50.4 $131.1 +160%
Percent changes in TiO2:
Sales volume ........... -9% -2%
Average selling prices
(in billing currencies) +17% +17%
Kronos' operating income in the third quarter and first nine months of
1998 increased from the comparable periods in 1997 due to higher average selling
prices, partially offset by lower sales volume and the absence of $9.7 million
of income from refunds of German franchise taxes received in the third quarter
of 1997. Kronos expects its fourth-quarter 1998 operating income will exceed its
fourth-quarter 1997 operating income primarily because of higher average
fourth-quarter 1998 TiO2 selling prices, partially offset by moderately lower
fourth-quarter 1998 sales volume.
Average TiO2 selling prices for the third quarter of 1998 were 17% higher
than the third quarter of 1997 and 2% higher than the second quarter of 1998.
Kronos' third-quarter sales volume decreased 9% from the record sales
volume in the year-earlier period as demand moderated. Sales volume in the first
nine months of 1998 was 2% lower than the year-earlier period primarily
reflecting lower sales volume in Asia, partially offset by higher sales volume
in Europe. As a result of lower second-half 1998 demand for TiO2, Kronos
anticipates its TiO2 sales volume for full-year 1998 will be slightly below that
of calendar year 1997.
Kronos' cost of sales as a percentage of net sales decreased in the third
quarter and first nine months of 1998 primarily due to higher average selling
prices. Kronos' selling, general and administrative expenses decreased in the
third quarter and first nine months of 1998 due to lower distribution costs
associated with lower sales volume and favorable effects of foreign currency
translation, partially offset by the impact of the German franchise tax refunds
received in the third quarter of 1997.
A significant amount of sales are denominated in currencies other than the
U.S. dollar, and fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other
currencies decreased the dollar value of sales for the third quarter and first
nine months of 1998 by $3 million and $26 million, respectively, compared to the
comparable 1997 periods.
- 18 -
The following table sets forth certain information regarding general
corporate income (expense).
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, Difference September 30, Difference
------------------ ---------- ------------------ ----------
1997 1998 1997 1998
------ ------ ------ ------
(In millions)
Securities earnings ... $ .6 $ 4.3 $ 3.7 $ 1.8 $ 12.7 $10.9
Corporate expenses, net (5.7) (4.1) 1.6 (44.3) (11.6) 32.7
Interest expense ...... (16.4) (15.1) 1.3 (49.2) (46.9) 2.3
------ ------ ----- ------ ------ -----
$(21.5) $(14.9) $ 6.6 $(91.7) $(45.8) $45.9
====== ====== ===== ====== ====== =====
Securities earnings increased due to higher average balances available for
investment. Corporate expenses, net in the first nine months of 1998 was lower
than the comparable period in 1997 due to the $30 million noncash charge taken
in the first quarter of 1997 related to the Company's adoption of SOP No. 96-1,
"Environmental Remediation Liabilities." This charge is included in selling,
general and administrative expense in the Company's consolidated statements of
income.
The Company expects general corporate interest income and interest expense
to be lower in the fourth quarter of 1998 compared to the third quarter of 1998
due to the redemption of the remaining 13% Senior Secured Discount Notes on
October 15, 1998.
Income taxes in the third quarter of 1998 include a tax benefit of $8.2
million resulting from a refund of prior-year German dividend withholding taxes.
The Company sold the net assets of its Rheox specialty chemicals business
in the first quarter of 1998 and, as a result of the sale, Rheox's results are
reported as discontinued operations.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's consolidated cash flows from operating, investing and
financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 are
presented below.
Nine months ended
September 30,
-----------------
1997 1998
------ ------
(In millions)
Net cash provided (used) by:
Operating activities .................................... $ 70.8 $ 42.1
Investing activities .................................... (14.6) 429.3
Financing activities .................................... (67.0) (249.6)
------ ------
Net cash provided (used) by operating, investing
and financing activities ........................... $(10.8) $221.8
====== ======
The TiO2 industry is cyclical and changes in economic conditions within
the industry significantly impact the earnings and operating cash flows of the
Company. Cash flow from operations, before changes in assets and liabilities,
- 19 -
in the 1998 period improved significantly from the comparable period in 1997 due
to higher operating income. Changes in the Company's inventories, receivables
and payables (excluding the effect of currency translation) used cash in the
first nine months of 1998 but provided cash in the first nine months of 1997
primarily due to reductions in inventory levels in the 1997 period and higher
payments of income taxes in the 1998 period as a result of the gain on sale of
Rheox.
The sale of the Company's specialty chemicals business in the first
quarter of 1998 resulted in net proceeds of $380 million after current income
taxes and other expenses. In the first nine months of 1998, the Company used a
portion of the net proceeds to repay certain indebtedness, as described below,
and on October 15, 1998, used a portion of the net proceeds to redeem the
remaining $119 million of 13% Senior Secured Discount Notes at the redemption
price of 106% of the principal amount, in accordance with the terms of the
Discount Notes indenture.
During the first nine months of 1998, the Company used a portion of the
net proceeds to (i) prepay $118 million of the Rheox credit facility, (ii)
prepay $42 million of Kronos' share of the LPC joint venture term loan, (iii)
make $65 million of open-market purchases of the Company's 13% Senior Secured
Discount Notes at prices ranging from $101.25 to $105.19 per $100 of their
principal amounts, and (iv) purchase $6 million of the Senior Secured Notes and
$61 thousand of the Senior Secured Discount Notes at a price of $100 and $96.03
per $100 of their principal amounts, respectively, pursuant to a June 1998 pro
rata tender offer to Note holders as required under the terms of the indenture.
The Company prepaid DM 81 million ($44 million when paid) of its DM term
loan in the first quarter of 1998. A portion of the funds for such prepayment of
the DM term loan was provided by a first-quarter DM 35 million ($19 million when
borrowed) increase in outstanding borrowings under the Company's short-term
non-U.S. credit facilities. In the second quarter of 1998, the Company repaid DM
20 million ($11 million when paid) of the DM revolving credit facility.
In order to complete the Tioxide Purchase, the Company expects to borrow
approximately $250 million in bank financing.
At September 30, 1998 the Company had cash and cash equivalents
aggregating $321 million (14% held by non-U.S. subsidiaries), including
restricted cash equivalents of $13 million. The Company's subsidiaries had $91
million available for borrowing at September 30, 1998 under existing non-U.S.
credit facilities.
In the third quarter of 1998, the Company paid a regular quarterly
dividend of $.03 per share to shareholders aggregating $1.5 million. Dividends
paid during the first nine months of 1998 totaled $3.1 million. In October 1998
the Company's Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $.03
per share to shareholders of record as of December 16, 1998 to be paid on
December 30, 1998.
In June 1998, as a result of the settlement of a shareholder derivative
lawsuit on behalf of the Company, Valhi transferred $14.4 million in cash to the
- 20 -
Company, and the Company agreed to pay plaintiffs' attorneys' fees and expenses
of $3.2 million.
Certain of the Company's tax returns in various U.S. and non-U.S.
jurisdictions are being examined and tax authorities have proposed or may
propose tax deficiencies, including non-income tax related items and interest.
The Company previously reached an agreement with the German tax authorities and
paid certain tax deficiencies of approximately DM 44 million ($28 million when
paid), including interest, which resolved significant tax contingencies for
years through 1990. In the third quarter of 1998, the Company received a DM 14
million ($8.2 million when received) refund of 1990 German dividend withholding
taxes. The German tax authorities were required to refund such amounts based on
a recent German Supreme Court decision in favor of another taxpayer. The refund
resulted in a reduction of the settlement amount from DM 44 million referred to
above to DM 30 million for years through 1990. No further withholding tax
refunds are expected.
Certain other significant German tax contingencies aggregating an
estimated DM 172 million ($102 million at September 30, 1998) through 1997
remain outstanding and are in litigation. Of these, one primary issue represents
disputed amounts aggregating DM 160 million ($95 million at September 30, 1998)
for years through 1997. The Company has received tax assessments for a
substantial portion of these amounts. No payments of tax or interest
deficiencies related to these assessments are expected until the litigation is
resolved. During 1997 a German tax court proceeding involving a tax issue
substantially the same as this issue was decided in favor of the taxpayer. The
German tax authorities have appealed that decision to the German Supreme Court.
The Company believes that a decision by the German Supreme Court will be
rendered within a year and will likely determine the outcome of the Company's
primary dispute with the German tax authorities. Although the Company believes
that it will ultimately prevail in this matter, the Company has granted a DM 94
million ($56 million at September 30, 1998) lien on its Nordenham, Germany TiO2
plant in favor of the City of Leverkusen, and a DM 5 million ($3 million at
September 30, 1998) lien in favor of the German federal tax authorities. If the
Company does not prevail, these contingencies will increase the Company's tax
liability for 1990 and each year thereafter, and the Company would seek to
negotiate payment over a period of time.
In addition, during 1997 the Company reached an agreement with the German
tax authorities regarding certain other issues not in litigation for the years
1991 through 1994, and agreed to pay additional tax deficiencies of DM 9 million
($5 million at September 30, 1998), most of which was paid in the third quarter
of 1998.
During 1997 the Company received a tax assessment from the Norwegian tax
authorities proposing tax deficiencies of NOK 51 million ($7 million at
September 30, 1998) relating to 1994. The Company has appealed this assessment
and has begun litigation proceedings. Although the Company believes that it will
ultimately prevail, the Company has granted a lien for the full amount of the
tax assessment on its Fredrikstad, Norway TiO2 plant in favor of the Norwegian
tax authorities.
- 21 -
No assurance can be given that these tax matters will be resolved in the
Company's favor in view of the inherent uncertainties involved in court
proceedings. The Company believes that it has provided adequate accruals for
additional taxes and related interest expense which may ultimately result from
all such examinations and believes that the ultimate disposition of such
examinations should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's
consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
The Company has been named as a defendant, potentially responsible party
("PRP"), or both, in a number of legal proceedings associated with environmental
matters, including waste disposal sites, mining locations and facilities
currently or previously owned, operated or used by the Company, certain of which
are on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (the "U.S. EPA") Superfund
National Priorities List or similar state lists. On a quarterly basis, the
Company evaluates the potential range of its liability at sites where it has
been named as a PRP or defendant. The Company believes it has adequate accruals
($128 million at September 30, 1998) for reasonably estimable costs of such
matters, but the Company's ultimate liability may be affected by a number of
factors, including changes in remedial alternatives and costs, and the
allocations of such costs among PRPs. It is not possible to estimate the range
of costs for certain sites. The upper end of the range of reasonably possible
costs to the Company for sites for which it is possible to estimate costs is
approximately $160 million. The Company's estimates of such liabilities have not
been discounted to present value, and the Company has not recognized any
potential insurance recoveries. No assurance can be given that actual costs will
not exceed accrued amounts or the upper end of the range for sites for which
estimates have been made, and no assurance can be given that costs will not be
incurred with respect to sites as to which no estimate presently can be made.
Further, there can be no assurance that additional environmental matters will
not arise in the future.
The Company is also a defendant in a number of legal proceedings seeking
damages for personal injury and property damage arising from the sale of lead
pigments and lead-based paints. There is no assurance that the Company will not
incur future liability in respect of this pending litigation in view of the
inherent uncertainties involved in court and jury rulings in pending and
possible future cases. However, based on, among other things, the results of
such litigation to date, the Company believes that the pending lead pigment and
paint litigation is without merit. The Company has not accrued any amounts for
such pending litigation. Liability that may result, if any, cannot be reasonably
estimated. In addition, various legislation and administrative regulations have,
from time to time, been enacted or proposed that seek to impose various
obligations on present and former manufacturers of lead pigment and lead-based
paint with respect to asserted health concerns associated with the use of such
products and to effectively overturn court decisions in which the Company and
other pigment manufacturers have been successful. Examples of such proposed
legislation include bills which would permit civil liability for damages on the
basis of market share, rather than requiring plaintiffs to prove that the
defendant's product caused the alleged damage. The Company currently believes
the disposition of all claims and disputes, individually and in the aggregate,
should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated
financial
- 22 -
position, results of operations or liquidity. There can be no assurance that
additional matters of these types will not arise in the future.
The Company is in the process of evaluating and upgrading its computer
systems (both information technology ("IT") systems and non-IT systems involving
embedded chip technology) and software applications (collectively referred to as
"systems") to ensure that the systems function properly beginning January 1,
2000. To achieve its year 2000 compliance plan, the Company is utilizing
internal and external resources to identify, correct or reprogram, and test its
systems.
The Company has conducted an inventory of its IT systems worldwide and is
currently testing the systems and applications that have been corrected or
reprogrammed for year 2000 compliance. The Company has completed a preliminary
inventory of its non-IT systems and is in the process of validating the
inventory and correcting or replacing date-deficient systems. The Company uses a
number of packaged software products that have been upgraded to a year 2000
compliant version in the normal course of business. Excluding the cost of these
software upgrades, the Company's cost of becoming year 2000 compliant is
expected to be approximately $2 million, of which about one-third has been spent
through September 1998. The Company expects its major IT systems to be year 2000
compliant by March 1999, and expects its non-IT systems to be year 2000
compliant by September 1999.
As part of its year 2000 compliance plan, the Company has requested
confirmations from its major domestic and foreign software vendors, hardware
vendors and primary suppliers, that they are developing and implementing plans
to become, or are, year 2000 compliant. Confirmations received to date from the
Company's software vendors, hardware vendors and primary suppliers indicate that
generally they are in the process of implementing remediation plans to ensure
that their systems are compliant by December 31, 1999. The major software
vendors used by the Company have already delivered year 2000 compliant software.
The Company plans to request confirmations from its major customers that they
are developing or implementing plans to become year-2000 compliant.
The Company is developing a contingency plan to address potential year
2000 related business interruptions that may occur on January 1, 2000, or
thereafter. This plan is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 1999.
Although the Company expects its systems to be year 2000 compliant before
December 31, 1999, it cannot predict the outcome or success of the year 2000
compliance programs of its vendors, suppliers, and customers. The Company also
cannot predict whether its major software vendors, who continue to test for year
2000 compliance, will find additional problems that would result in unplanned
upgrades of their applications after December 31, 1999. As a result of these
uncertainties, the Company cannot predict the impact on its financial condition
or results of noncompliant year 2000 systems that the Company directly or
indirectly relies upon. Should the Company's year 2000 compliance plan not be
successful or be delayed beyond January 2000, the consequences to the Company
could be far-reaching and material, including an inability to produce TiO2 at
its manufacturing facilities, which could lead to an indeterminate amount of
lost
- 23 -
revenue. Other potential negative consequences could include plant malfunction,
impeded communications or power supplies, or slower transaction processing and
financial reporting.
Beginning January 1, 1999, eleven of the fifteen members of the European
Union ("EU"), including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and France, have
agreed to adopt a new European currency unit (the "euro") as their common legal
currency. Following the introduction of the euro, the participating countries'
national currencies will remain legal tender as denominations of the euro from
January 1, 1999 through January 1, 2002, and the exchange rates between the euro
and such national currency units will be fixed.
The Company conducts substantial operations in Europe. The functional
currency of the Company's German, Belgian, Dutch and French operations will
convert to the euro from their respective national currencies over a two-year
period beginning in 1999. The euro conversion may impact the Company's
operations including, among other things, changes in product pricing decisions
necessitated by cross-border price transparencies. Such changes in product
pricing decisions could impact both selling prices and purchasing costs and,
consequently, favorably or unfavorably impact results of operations.
The Company has a significant amount of outstanding DM-denominated
indebtedness and such debt will become euro-denominated effective January 1,
1999. Modifications of information systems to handle euro-denominated
transactions will be required, although the modifications are not expected to be
extensive.
The Company has begun to assess and evaluate the expected impact of the
euro conversion on its business. Such evaluations are still in process but are
expected to be concluded by the end of 1998. The Company expects to spend and
charge to expense less than $1 million in evaluation and conversion costs.
Because of the inherent uncertainty of the ultimate affect of the euro
conversion, the Company cannot accurately predict the impact on its results of
operations, financial condition or liquidity.
The Company periodically evaluates its liquidity requirements, alternative
uses of capital, capital needs and availability of resources in view of, among
other things, its debt service and capital expenditure requirements and
estimated future operating cash flows. As a result of this process, the Company
in the past has sought, and in the future may seek, to reduce, refinance,
repurchase or restructure indebtedness, raise additional capital, issue
additional securities, modify its dividend policy, restructure ownership
interests, sell interests in subsidiaries or other assets, or take a combination
of such steps or other steps to manage its liquidity and capital resources. In
the normal course of its business, the Company may review opportunities for the
acquisition, divestiture, joint venture or other business combinations in the
chemicals industry. In the event of any acquisition or joint venture
transaction, the Company may consider using available cash, issuing equity
securities or increasing its indebtedness to the extent permitted by the
agreements governing the Company's existing debt.
- 24 -
The statements contained in this Report on Form 10-Q ("Quarterly Report")
that are not historical facts, including, but not limited to, statements found
under the captions "Results of Operations" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources"
above, are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and
uncertainties. The actual results of the future events described in such
forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report could differ materially from
those stated in such forward-looking statements and the Company disclaims any
intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements,
whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Among the
factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are the risks and
uncertainties discussed in this Quarterly Report and in the 1997 Annual Report,
including, without limitation, the portions of such reports under the captions
referenced above, and the uncertainties set forth from time to time in the
Company's other public reports and filings and public statements.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Reference is made to the 1997 Annual Report and the Company's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 1998 and June 30, 1998 for
descriptions of certain previously-reported legal proceedings.
State of Illinois v. NL Industries, Inc., et al. (No. 88-CH-11618). In
October 1998 the Supreme Court of Illinois declined the State's petition to
review the previously reported decisions in favor of the Company.
DeLeon v. Exide Corp. and NL Industries, Inc., (No. DV98-02669-B). In
August 1998 the plaintiffs dismissed this previously-reported case without
prejudice.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) EXHIBITS
10.1 - 1998 Framework Agreement between ICI, DuPont and the
Registrant dated July 24, 1998.
10.2 - July 24, 1998 Agreement between ICI and the Registrant.
10.3 - Form of Hivedown Agreement to be entered into between
Tioxide Europe Limited and Newco.
10.4 - Form of Share Sale and Purchase Agreement of Newco to be
entered into between Tioxide Europe Limited and the Registrant.
10.5 - Form of Product Exchange Agreement to be entered into
between Newco and Tioxide Europe Limited.
- 25 -
10.6 - Form of Share Sale and Purchase Agreement of Tioxide
Americas Inc. to be entered into between ICI American Holdings Inc.
and the Registrant.
10.7 - Form of Share Sale and Purchase Agreement of Tioxide
CanadaInc. to be entered into between Tioxide Group Limited and ICI
Omicron B.V. and the Registrant.
10.8 - Form of Americas Liability Agreement to be entered into
between ICI and the Registrant.
10.9 - Intercorporate Services Agreement by and between Contran
Corporation and the Registrant effective as of January 1, 1998.
10.10 - Intercorporate Services Agreement by and between Valhi,
Inc. and the Registrant effective as of January 1, 1998.
10.11 - Intercorporate Services Agreement by and between Tremont
Corporation and the Registrant effective as of January 1, 1998.
10.12 - Intercorporate Services Agreement by and between Titanium
Metals Corporation and the Registrant effective as of January 1,
1998.
10.13 - Intercorporate Services Agreement by and between CompX
International Inc. and the Registrant effective as of January 1,
1998.
27.1 - Financial Data Schedule for the nine-month period ended
September 30, 1998.
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
Reports on Form 8-K for the quarter ended September 30, 1998 and
through the date of this report:
August 28, 1998 - reported Items 5 and 7.
October 19, 1998 - reported Items 5 and 7.
October 21, 1998 - reported Items 5 and 7.
- 26 -
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
NL INDUSTRIES, INC.
-------------------------
(Registrant)
Date: November 9, 1998 By /s/ Susan E. Alderton
- ----------------------- ---------------------
Susan E. Alderton
Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 9, 1998 By /s/ Dennis G. Newkirk
- ----------------------- ---------------------
Dennis G. Newkirk
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
- 27 -