============================================================================
UNITED STATES
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 QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO
--- ---
COMMISSION FILE NO.: 000-09409
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
WASHINGTON 91-6087550
(State or other jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
14900 INTERURBAN AVENUE SOUTH, SUITE 282, SEATTLE, WA 98168
(Address of office)
(206) 674-4639
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. YES X NO
--- ---
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES X NO
--- ---
The Registrant had 17,099,899 shares of beneficial interest outstanding as at
November 13, 2003.
================================================================================
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
---------------------
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003
(UNAUDITED)
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 2
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
SEPTEMBER 30, DECEMBER 31,
2003 2002
------------- ------------
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents E 17,554 E 30,261
Cash restricted 8,444 9,459
Investments 511 307
Receivables 35,744 28,132
Cumulative unrealized gains on derivatives 20,407 3,792
Inventories 22,929 16,375
Prepaids and other 8,729 7,891
------------- ------------
Total current assets 114,318 96,217
Long-Term Assets
Cash restricted 40,296 38,795
Properties 649,780 441,990
Investments 7,435 5,592
Equity method investment 6,886 7,019
Deferred income taxes 10,043 10,137
------------- ------------
714,440 503,533
------------- ------------
E 828,758 E 599,750
============= ============
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued expenses E 44,971 E 32,866
Construction in progress costs payable 57,771 24,885
Note payable 1,609 832
Note payable, construction in progress 45,000 15,000
Debt, current portion 23,016 16,306
------------- ------------
Total current liabilities 172,367 89,889
Long-Term Liabilities
Debt, construction in progress, less current
portion 287,386 146,485
Debt, less current portion 188,740 205,393
Derivative financial instruments, construction
in progress 52,633 30,108
Other 1,649 2,906
------------- ------------
530,408 384,892
------------- ------------
Total liabilities 702,775 474,781
Minority Interest - -
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Shares of beneficial interest 78,139 76,995
Additional paid-in capital, stock options 208 -
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 4,020 (4,815)
Retained earnings 43,616 52,789
------------- ------------
125,983 124,969
------------- ------------
E 828,758 E 599,750
============= ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 3
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS
For Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands, except for earnings per share)
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Revenues
Sales of pulp and paper E 134,935 E 174,289
Transportation 2,850 3,885
Other 6,351 4,868
---------- ----------
144,136 183,042
Cost of sales
Pulp and paper 131,838 152,270
Transportation 2,388 3,747
---------- ----------
Gross profit 9,910 27,025
General, administrative and other 12,961 20,400
---------- ----------
(Loss) income from operations (3,051) 6,625
---------- ----------
Other income (expense)
Interest expense (6,887) (10,838)
Investment income (loss) 1,055 (300)
Gain on derivative contracts 18,335 10,855
Loss on derivative contracts, interest rate
swaps, construction in progress (22,525) (22,011)
Gain on derivative contract, currency forward,
construction in progress 586 -
Settlement expense (630) -
Impairment of available-for-sale securities (5,511) -
Other 1,182 223
---------- ----------
Total other expense (14,395) (22,071)
---------- ----------
Loss before income taxes (17,446) (15,446)
Income taxes 226 11
---------- ----------
Loss before minority interest (17,672) (15,457)
Minority interest 8,499 8,016
---------- ----------
Net loss (9,173) (7,441)
Retained earnings, beginning of period 52,789 59,111
---------- ----------
Retained earnings, end of period E 43,616 E 51,670
========== ==========
Loss per share
Basic E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
Diluted E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 4
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS
For Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands, except for earnings per share)
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Revenues
Sales of pulp and paper E 43,661 E 54,754
Transportation 828 1,132
Other 1,333 1,019
---------- ----------
45,822 56,905
Cost of sales
Pulp and paper 45,366 47,667
Transportation 525 1,269
---------- ----------
Gross profit (69) 7,969
General, administrative and other 4,231 6,004
---------- ----------
(Loss) income from operations (4,300) 1,965
---------- ----------
Other income (expense)
Interest expense (2,236) (2,739)
Investment income 416 367
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts 3,734 (4,026)
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts, interest
rate swaps, construction in progress 5,419 (22,011)
Gain on derivative contract, currency forward,
construction in progress 586 -
Settlement expense (630) -
Other (205) (2,169)
---------- ----------
Total other income (expense) 7,084 (30,578)
---------- ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes 2,784 (28,613)
Income taxes 28 -
---------- ----------
Income (loss) before minority interest 2,756 (28,613)
Minority interest (1,880) 8,016
---------- ----------
Net income (loss) 876 (20,597)
Retained earnings, beginning of period 42,740 72,267
---------- ----------
Retained earnings, end of period E 43,616 E 51,670
========== ==========
Income (loss) per share
Basic E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
Diluted E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 5
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
For Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Net loss E (9,173) E (7,441)
---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments 1,240 3,894
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities
Unrealized holding gain (loss) arising
during the period 2,084 (2,935)
Adjustment for other than temporary
decline in value 5,511 -
---------- ----------
7,595 (2,935)
---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income 8,835 959
---------- ----------
Total comprehensive loss E (338) E (6,482)
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 6
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
For Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Net income (loss) E 876 E (20,597)
---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments 115 381
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities 2,345 (1,646)
---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income (loss) 2,460 (1,265)
---------- ----------
Total comprehensive income (loss) E 3,336 E (21,862)
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 7
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net loss E (9,173) E (7,441)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash
flows from operating activities
Unrealized loss on derivative financial
instruments, construction in progress, net 21,939 22,011
Depreciation and amortization 18,135 20,231
Impairment of securities 5,511 -
Minority interest (8,499) (8,016)
Loss from an equity investee 912 -
Stock compensation expense 432 -
Changes in current assets and liabilities
Investments (166) 4,004
Inventories (6,554) (675)
Receivables (8,138) 5,556
Cumulative unrealized gains on derivatives (18,333) 67
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 11,516 (12,363)
Other (651) 651
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 6,931 24,025
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Purchase of properties, net of investment
grants received (226,240) (156,526)
Sale of properties - 3,513
Purchase of long-term investments - (3,000)
Sale of long-term investments 296 966
Other 48 -
---------- ----------
Net cash used in investing activities (225,896) (155,047)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Cash restricted (486) (29,261)
Increase in construction in progress costs
payable 34,362 51,826
Increase in notes payable and debt 186,859 107,053
Decrease in notes payable and debt (15,444) (17,570)
Equity and loans from minority shareholders - 30,615
Issuance of shares of beneficial interest 913 -
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 206,204 142,663
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and
cash equivalents 54 (446)
---------- ----------
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash
equivalents (12,707) 11,195
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 30,261 11,741
---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period E 17,554 E 22,936
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 8
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003
(Unaudited)
NOTE 1. Basis of Presentation
The interim period consolidated financial statements contained herein include
the accounts of Mercer International Inc. and its wholly-owned and
majority-owned subsidiaries (the "Company").
The interim period consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the
Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Certain information and footnote disclosure
normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or
omitted pursuant to such SEC rules and regulations. The interim period
consolidated financial statements should be read together with the audited
consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the
Company's latest annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December
31, 2002. In the opinion of the Company, the unaudited consolidated financial
statements contained herein contain all adjustments necessary to present a fair
statement of the results of the interim periods presented. The results for the
periods presented herein may not be indicative of the results for the entire
year.
NOTE 2. Stock-Based Compensation
The Company has a stock-based employee compensation plan, which is described
more fully in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2002. The Company accounts for the plan under the recognition and
measurement principles of APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees, and related interpretations.
On September 10, 2003, the Company granted stock options to acquire up to
100,000 shares of beneficial interest of the Company to David M. Gandossi, the
Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of the Company, with a ten year term,
exercisable at a price of $5.65 per share, pursuant to an employment agreement
between the Company and Mr. Gandossi dated August 7, 2003. The stock options
were in-the-money at the date of grant and, accordingly, the intrinsic value of
the stock options was recognized as a stock-based compensation expense in
accordance with APB Opinion No. 25 and included in the consolidated income
statements.
The following tables illustrate the effect on net income (loss) and income
(loss) per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition
provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting
for Stock-Based Compensation, to stock-based employee compensation:
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 9
Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(Euros in thousands, except
per share amounts)
Net Loss
As reported E (9,173) E (7,441)
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation
expense determined under fair value based
methods for all awards, net of any related
tax effects (13) (6)
Add: Reversal of stock-based compensation
expense recognized under APB Opinion No. 25 14 -
---------- ----------
Pro forma E (9,172) E (7,447)
========== ==========
Basic Loss Per Share
As reported E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
Pro forma E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
Diluted Loss Per Share
As reported E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
Pro forma E (0.54) E (0.44)
========== ==========
Three Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(Euros in thousands, except
per share amounts)
Net Income (Loss)
As reported E 876 E (20,597)
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation
expense determined under fair value based
methods for all awards, net of any related
tax effects (5) (2)
Add: Reversal of stock-based compensation
expense recognized under APB Opinion No. 25 14 -
---------- ----------
Pro forma E 885 E (20,599)
========== ==========
Basic Income (Loss) Per Share
As reported E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
Pro forma E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
Diluted Income (Loss) Per Share
As reported E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
Pro forma E 0.05 E (1.23)
========== ==========
NOTE 3. Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common
shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during a
period. Diluted earnings per share takes into consideration shares outstanding
(computed under basic earnings per share) and potentially dilutive shares. The
following table sets out the weighted average number of shares for the purposes
of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended
September 30, 2003 and 2002:
Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
Basic 16,887,262 16,794,899
Diluted 16,887,262 16,794,899
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 10
The following table sets out the weighted average number of shares for the
purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share for the three
months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002:
Three Months Ended September 30,
--------------------------------
2003 2002
----------- ----------
Basic 16,911,584 16,794,899
Diluted 16,942,973 16,794,899
For the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 and the three months ended
September 30, 2002, warrants and options were not included in the computation of
diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive.
NOTE 4. Stendal Pulp Mill Project
In August 2002, the Company completed financing arrangements for the design,
development, financing, construction and operation of a "greenfield" project to
construct and operate a 552,000-tonne softwood kraft pulp mill to be located
near Stendal, Germany (the "Stendal Project"). The Stendal Project is being
implemented through Zellstoff Stendal GmbH ("Stendal"), an approximately 63.6%
owned subsidiary of the Company. Two minority shareholders own approximately
29.4% and 7%, respectively, of the project company. Accordingly, the results of
the subsidiary are consolidated into the results of the Company. Mercer
currently capitalizes the majority of the expenses and all of the interest
related to the Stendal Project as it is classified as construction in progress.
The construction costs of the Stendal Project will commence to depreciate when
the Stendal Project is completed and commences its commercial production.
Minority interests on the balance sheet represent the share capital contribution
from the minority shareholders, adjusted for their proportionate share of income
and loss.
NOTE 5. Landqart AG
The Company acquired all of the shares of Landqart AG ("Landqart"), which
operates a specialty paper mill in Graubunden, Switzerland, in December 2001.
The results of Landqart were consolidated into the results of the Company in
2002. The Company reorganized its interest in Landqart in December 2002 by
selling a 20% interest to a Swiss bank and exchanging the remaining 80% for an
indirect 39% minority interest through a limited partnership on a non-cash
basis. As of December 31, 2002, the Company's interest in Landqart is no longer
consolidated and is included in the Company's results on an equity basis within
other income (expense).
NOTE 6. Transactions with Related or Certain Other Parties
A trustee and former Chief Financial Officer of the Company, became a Vice
President of MFC Bancorp Ltd. ("MFC") in August 2003. As a result, MFC is
considered to be a related party. Prior to June 1996, MFC was the Company's 92%
owned subsidiary. In June 1996, the Company distributed shares of MFC to its
shareholders by way of a special dividend-in-kind and spun off approximately 83%
of the issued shares of MFC. Prior to the spin off, MFC provided and arranged
for the majority of the Company's financial requirements. From time to time,
the Company and MFC (and its affiliates) enter into certain arm's length
transactions.
As at September 30, 2003:
i. The Company owes MFC and its affiliates E37.2 million (including principal,
fees and accrued interest) with respect to a bridge loan arranged by a
Swiss banking subsidiary of
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 11
MFC (of which the Company's Chairman, Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and
trustee is currently a non-executive director) as part of the financing for
the Stendal Project. Subsequent to September 30, 2003, the Company repaid
this bridge loan in full with proceeds from its offering of convertible
senior subordinated notes (see Note 10);
ii. The Company owes MFC E7.7 million bearing interest at 6%, due April 2004,
unsecured;
iii. The Company has a current trade receivable of E1.3 million from a
subsidiary of MFC in connection with certain pulp sales made under normal
market terms;
iv. The Company indirectly holds approximately 575,683 common shares of MFC,
representing approximately 4.4% of the outstanding common shares of MFC;
and
v. The Company has a loan receivable from a director of MFC in the amount of
E0.2 million.
In December 2002, the Company contributed its 80% interest in Landqart to a
limited partnership for a 49% interest therein (see Note 5). The other limited
partner of the limited partnership is MFC and the general partner is wholly
owned by Cade Struktur Corporation ("CSC"), a Canadian public company in which
the Company owns an approximate 26% interest and MFC owns 25% of the issued and
outstanding shares. The Company's CEO previously served as a director and
officer of CSC, although at the time of the Landqart reorganization, the
Company's CEO was neither an officer nor a director of CSC. MFC assists with
purchases and sales for Landqart. In addition, from time to time, MFC assists
with supplier arrangements for Landqart.
NOTE 7. New Accounting Standards
In April 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 149, Amendment of
Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. SFAS 149 amends
and clarifies financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments,
including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for
hedging activities under SFAS 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities. This Statement is effective for contracts entered into or
modified after June 30, 2003, and for hedging relationships designated after
June 30, 2003. In addition, all provisions of this Statement should be applied
prospectively. The Company does not anticipate that this Statement will have a
material impact on the Company's financial statements.
In May 2003, FASB issued SFAS 150, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments
with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity. SFAS 150 establishes
standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain financial
instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. This Statement
is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31,
2003, and otherwise is effective at the beginning of the first interim period
beginning after June 15, 2003. This Statement did not have a material impact on
the Company's financial statements.
In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 46 ("FIN 46"), Consolidation
of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of ARB No. 51. FIN 46
requires certain variable interest entities to be consolidated by the primary
beneficiary of the entity if the equity investors in the entity do not have the
characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient
equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional
subordinated financial support from other parties. FIN 46 is effective for all
new variable interest entities created or acquired after January 31, 2003. For
variable interest entities created or acquired prior to February 1, 2003, the
provisions of
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 12
FIN 46 must be applied for the first interim or annual period beginning after
June 15, 2003. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of FIN 46 will
have a material impact on the results of operations and financial condition of
the Company.
NOTE 8. Business Segment Information
The Company operates in two reportable business segments: pulp and paper. The
segments are managed separately because each business requires different
production and marketing strategies.
Summarized financial information concerning the segments is shown in the
following table:
PULP PAPER TOTAL
-------- --------- ---------
(Euros in thousands)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003
- ------------------------------------
Sales to external customers E 92,418 E 42,517 E 134,935
Intersegment net sales 2,178 - 2,178
Income (loss) from operations (650) 622 (28)
Segment profit 9,155 1,254 10,409
Reconciliation of profit:
Total profit for reportable segments E 10,409
Elimination of intersegment profits 4,086
Loss on derivative financial instruments,
construction in progress financing, net (21,939)
Impairment of available-for-sale securities (5,511)
Unallocated amounts, other corporate expenses (4,491)
---------
Consolidated loss before income taxes and
minority interest E (17,446)
=========
The total assets for the Stendal pulp mill under
construction were E455,253 thousand and E223,386
thousand as at September 30, 2003 and December 31,
2002, respectively.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2002
- ------------------------------------
Sales to external customers E 98,962 E 75,327 E 174,289
Intersegment net sales 3,919 - 3,919
Income from operations 8,047 1,341 9,388
Segment profit 10,659 133 10,792
Reconciliation of profit:
Total profit for reportable segments E 10,792
Elimination of intersegment profits 1,295
Loss on derivative financial instruments,
construction in progress financing (22,011)
Unallocated amounts, other corporate expenses (5,522)
---------
Consolidated loss before income taxes and
minority interest E (15,446)
=========
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 13
PULP PAPER TOTAL
-------- --------- ---------
(Euros in thousands)
Three Months Ended September 30, 2003
- -------------------------------------
Sales to external customers E 30,004 E 13,657 E 43,661
Intersegment net sales 633 - 633
Loss from operations (1,821) (681) (2,502)
Segment loss (1,397) (1,550) (2,947)
Reconciliation of loss:
Total loss for reportable segments E (2,947)
Elimination of intersegment profits 934
Gain on derivative financial instruments,
construction in progress financing, net 6,005
Unallocated amounts, other corporate expenses (1,208)
--------
Consolidated income before income taxes and
minority interest E 2,784
========
Three Months Ended September 30, 2002
- -------------------------------------
Sales to external customers E 30,878 E 23,876 E 54,754
Intersegment net sales 994 - 994
Income from operations 2,473 11 2,484
Segment loss (2,380) (3,243) (5,623)
Reconciliation of loss:
Total loss for reportable segments E (5,623)
Elimination of intersegment profits 462
Loss on derivative financial instruments,
construction in progress financing (22,011)
Unallocated amounts, other corporate expenses (1,441)
---------
Consolidated loss before income taxes and
minority interest E (28,613)
=========
NOTE 9. Settlement Expense
On August 5, 2003, the Company, Greenlight Capital, L.L.C. and Greenlight
Capital, Inc. (collectively, "Greenlight") entered into a settlement agreement
pursuant to which, among other things: (i) Greenlight agreed to terminate a
proxy solicitation which it had commenced; (ii) the Company issued options to
acquire an aggregate of up to 375,000 shares of beneficial interest of the
Company exercisable at a price of $4.53 per share expiring between September 22,
2003 and June 20, 2004, of which options to acquire 225,000 shares of beneficial
interest were exercised on September 16, 2003; and (iii) the Company reimbursed
Greenlight $250,000 for a portion of its costs and expenses of the solicitation.
The Company used the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of these
options. The Company recognized expenses aggregating approximately E0.6 million
in connection with the settlement in the nine month and three month periods
ended September 30, 2003.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 14
NOTE 10. Subsequent Events
On October 10, 2003, the Company completed the sale of $82.5 million in
aggregate principal amount of convertible senior subordinated notes due October
15, 2010. The notes bear interest at a rate of 8.5% per annum and are
convertible into the Company's shares of beneficial interest at a conversion
price of $7.75 per share. The notes were offered only to qualified
institutional buyers in reliance on Rule 144A and to certain buyers outside of
the United States in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended. The net proceeds from the offering of approximately E76.1 million
were used to repay in full the Company's indebtedness, including fees and
accrued interest, under two bridge loan facilities aggregating approximately
E65.9 million and the balance will be used for general corporate purposes,
including working capital.
NOTE 11. Accounts Payable And Accrued Expenses
As at As at
September 30, 2003 December 31,2002
-------------------- ----------------
(Euros in thousands)
Trade payables E 15,188 E 13,691
Derivative transactions 1,524 2,303
Break up fee on bridge loans 6,000 -
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 22,259 16,872
---------- ---------
E 44,971 E 32,866
========== =========
NOTE 12. Accounting For Derivatives
The Company enters into currency swaps, currency forward contracts, and interest
rate derivative contracts relating to its Rosenthal pulp mill and interest rate
swap agreements and currency forward contract relating to the Stendal pulp mill.
Rosenthal has entered into currency swaps in connection with its long-term
indebtedness relating to the conversion of the Rosenthal mill to the production
of kraft pulp to convert the Euro-denominated debt obligations into U.S.
dollars. Stendal has entered into interest rate swaps in connection with its
long-term indebtedness relating to the Stendal Project to fix the interest rate
thereunder. Rosenthal and Stendal also enter into currency forward contracts,
forward rate agreements and interest rate cap agreements, as the case may be, to
reduce or limit their exposure to interest rate and currency risks, or to
augment their potential gains or to reduce their potential losses. The Company
adopted SFAS 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,
effective January 1, 2001. Derivative instruments are measured at fair value at
each reporting date. None of the Rosenthal and Stendal derivatives are
designated hedges as defined in SFAS 133. Accordingly, any realized and
unrealized gain or loss on the Company's derivatives are included in other
income (loss) in the determination of the Company's net income (loss).
Cumulative unrealized loss on derivatives is included in accounts payable and
accrued expenses for Rosenthal and derivative financial instruments,
construction in progress for Stendal, on the Company's consolidated balance
sheet.
The Company is exposed to very modest credit-related risk relating to
non-performance by counterparties to derivative contracts. However, the Company
does not expect that the counterparties, which are major financial institutions,
will fail to meet their obligations.
NOTE 13. RECLASSIFICATIONS
Certain prior period amounts in the interim period consolidated financial
statements contained herein have been reclassified to conform to the current
period's presentation.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 15
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In this document: (i) unless the context otherwise requires, "we", "our", "us",
the "Company" or "Mercer" mean Mercer International Inc. and its subsidiaries;
(ii) information is provided as of September 30, 2003, unless otherwise stated;
(iii) all references to monetary amounts are to "Euros", the lawful currency
adopted by most members of the European Union, unless otherwise stated; (iv) "E"
refers to Euros; and (v) a "tonne" is one metric ton or 2,204.6 pounds.
The following discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial
condition for the nine months and three months ended September 30, 2003 should
be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related
notes included in this quarterly report, as well as our most recent annual
report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Certain reclassifications have
been made to the prior period financial statements to conform with the current
period presentation.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We operate in the pulp and paper business and our operations are located
primarily in Germany. Our manufacturing facilities are comprised of: (a) a
northern bleached softwood kraft ("NBSK") pulp mill operated by our wholly-owned
subsidiary, Zellstoff-und Papierfabrik Rosenthal GmbH & Co., KG ("Rosenthal"),
which produces softwood kraft pulp and has an annual production capacity of
approximately 300,000 tonnes; (b) a "greenfield" project (the "Stendal project")
to construct a new, state-of-the-art NBSK pulp mill, which is designed to have
an annual production capacity of approximately 552,000 tonnes, near Stendal,
Germany by our 63.6% owned subsidiary, Zellstoff Stendal GmbH ("Stendal"); and
(c) two paper mills located at Heidenau and Fahrbrucke, Germany (the "paper
mills"), which produce specialty papers and printing and writing papers and have
an aggregate annual production capacity of approximately 85,000 tonnes.
Total investment costs in respect of the Stendal project are estimated to be
approximately E1.0 billion, the majority of which is being financed under a
senior project finance facility (the "Stendal Loan Facility") in the amount of
E828 million and arranged with Bayerische Hypo-und Vereinsbank AG. The
construction of the Stendal mill commenced in August 2002 and is scheduled to be
completed in the third quarter of 2004. Costs, including interest, in respect of
the Stendal project are capitalized.
Our financial performance depends on a number of variables that impact sales and
production costs. Sales and production results are influenced largely by the
market price for products and raw materials, the mix of products produced and
foreign currency exchange rates. Kraft pulp and paper markets are highly
cyclical, with prices determined by supply and demand. Demand for kraft pulp and
paper is influenced to a significant degree by global levels of economic
activity and supply is driven by industry capacity and utilization rates. Our
product mix is important because premium grades of kraft pulp and specialty
papers generally achieve higher prices and profit margins.
Our production costs are influenced by the availability and cost of raw
materials, energy and labor, and our plant efficiencies and productivity. Our
main raw material is fiber in the form of wood chips and pulplogs for pulp
production, and waste paper and pulp for paper production. Fiber costs are
primarily affected by the supply of, and demand for, lumber and pulp, which are
both highly cyclical. Production costs also depend on the total volume of
production. High operating rates and production efficiencies permit us to lower
our average cost by spreading fixed costs over more units.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 16
Global economic conditions, changes in production capacity and inventory levels
are the primary factors affecting kraft pulp and paper prices. Historically
kraft pulp and paper prices have been cyclical in nature. Kraft pulp prices,
which had been at historically low levels between 1996 and 1999, rebounded in
2000 as a result of recoveries in Asian economies and a decline in capacity
resulting from the shut-down of unprofitable or older mills requiring
environmental upgrades. This contributed to tightening inventory levels and list
prices increasing to an average of approximately $710 per tonne in the fourth
quarter of 2000. However, the decline of North American and European economies
in 2001 caused a sharp reduction in paper demand. As a result, producer
inventories increased markedly and list price levels eroded to an average of
approximately $460 per tonne in late 2001. List prices for kraft pulp averaged
approximately $463 per tonne in 2002. Low producer inventories in early 2003
resulted in producers increasing list prices for kraft pulp in Europe to
approximately $560 per tonne in April 2003. List prices fell during the
seasonally weak summer months, and were approximately $510 per tonne in August
2003. Most producers, including ourselves, announced a $20 per tonne price
increase for NBSK pulp for September 2003, which was largely implemented.
Further price increases of $5 to $15 per tonne were implemented by most
producers, including ourselves, in October 2003.
Our financial performance for any reporting period is also impacted by changes
in the U.S. dollar to Euro exchange rate and in interest rates. Changes in such
rates can impact both our operating results and certain derivatives Rosenthal
and Stendal use to partially protect against the effect of such changes. Gains
or losses on such derivatives are recorded in our earnings either as they are
settled or as they are marked to market for each reporting period. See "Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk".
While the majority of our sales are invoiced in Euros, pulp prices are generally
based on a global industry benchmark price that is quoted in U.S. dollars. As a
result, a weakening of the U.S. dollar against the Euro will generally reduce
the amount of Euro revenues of our pulp operations. Most of our costs are
incurred, and our debt obligations are predominantly denominated, in Euros and
do not fluctuate with the U.S. dollar to Euro exchange rate. Thus, a weakening
of the U.S. dollar against the Euro tends to reduce our sales revenue, gross
profit and income from operations.
In order to partially protect against a weakening U.S. dollar, Rosenthal uses
derivatives to swap its Euro denominated debt obligations to U.S. dollars (the
"Rosenthal Currency Swaps"). Such derivatives effectively convert Rosenthal's
loan obligations from Euros into U.S. dollars. Rosenthal's use of U.S. dollar
currency derivatives has provided additional protection and augmented its
earnings and cash flow during a weakening U.S. dollar environment. Primarily as
a result of a weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the Euro, we recognized a net
gain of E18.3 million and E3.7 million on the derivatives of Rosenthal,
including certain interest rate derivatives, in the nine months and three months
ended September 30, 2003, respectively.
Stendal, as required under its project financing, entered into variable-to-fixed
rate swaps (the "Stendal Interest Rate Swap Agreements") to fix the interest
rate for the full term of the Stendal Loan Facility. While such swaps
effectively fix the interest cost on the Stendal Loan Facility and provide
stability with respect to future interest payments, they have kept Stendal from
benefiting from the general decline in interest rates in the later part of 2002
and the first half of 2003. These swaps are marked to market on a quarterly
basis taking into account, among other things, all future payments and the yield
curve. Declining interest rates in 2003 resulted in a non-cash holding loss of
E22.5 million on such swaps in the nine months ended September 30, 2003.
However, an increase in long-term European interest rates over the third quarter
of 2003 resulted in a non-cash holding gain of
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 17
E5.4 million on such swaps in the three months ended September 30, 2003. Stendal
also entered into a currency forward contract in connection with the Stendal
Loan Facility in the third quarter of 2003. This derivative instrument is also
marked to market on a quarterly basis. Primarily as a result of the weakening of
the U.S. dollar versus the Euro, a non-cash holding gain of E0.6 million on such
currency forward contract was recognized for both the nine and three month
periods ended September 30, 2003.
In the quarter ended September 30, 2003, interest rate trends have partially
reversed and the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuated. If the U.S.
dollar strengthens against the Euro, unless we settle the Rosenthal Currency
Swaps, they may show a mark to market loss in future periods, although (assuming
stable pulp prices) we would expect our operations to benefit from higher pulp
pricing as the global U.S. dollar benchmark is translated into Euros.
Furthermore, if higher interest rates continue, the Stendal variable-to-fixed
rate swaps may have a mark to market non-cash holding gain in future periods,
which may be offset in part by higher interest rates payable on Rosenthal's debt
obligations. See "Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market
Risk".
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 COMPARED TO NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
2002
Selected sales data for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 is as
follows:
Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
REVENUES BY PRODUCT CLASS
Pulp(1) E 92,418 E 98,962
Papers
Specialty papers(2) 30,185 60,816
Printing papers 12,332 14,511
---------- ----------
Total papers 42,517 75,327
========== ==========
Total(1) E 134,935 E 174,289
========== ==========
REVENUES BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
Germany E 60,596 E 70,178
European Union(3) 56,555 56,967
Eastern Europe and Other 17,784 47,144
---------- ----------
Total(1) E 134,935 E 174,289
========== ==========
SALES VOLUME BY PRODUCT CLASS (tonnes)
Pulp(1) 221,926 217,555
Papers
Specialty papers(2) 30,420 47,135
Printing papers 16,568 17,922
---------- ----------
Total papers 46,988 65,057
---------- ----------
Total(1) 268,914 282,612
========== ==========
________
(1) Excluding intercompany sales volumes of 5,166 and 8,528 tonnes of pulp and
intercompany net sales revenues of approximately E2.2 million and E3.9
million in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively.
(2) As of December 31, 2002, our interest in Landqart AG is no longer
consolidated and is included in our financial results on an equity basis.
Accordingly, sales from the Landqart specialty paper mill are not included
in our results for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, but are
included for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. The Landqart
specialty paper mill sold approximately 13,597 tonnes for approximately
E30.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2002.
(3) Not including Germany.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2003, total revenues decreased to E144.1
million from E183.0 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2002,
primarily as the current period does not include the revenues of the Landqart
specialty paper mill. We reorganized our interest in
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 18
Landqart AG ("Landqart") in December 2002 and now account for it under the
equity method. Primarily as a result thereof, pulp and paper revenues decreased
to E134.9 million in the current period from E174.3 million in the comparative
period in 2002.
Cost of pulp and paper sales in the nine months ended September 30, 2003
decreased to E131.8 million from E152.3 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 2002, primarily as a result of the deconsolidation of Landqart.
Pulp sales in the current period were E92.4 million, compared to E99.0 million
in the comparative period of 2002. U.S. dollar denominated list pulp price
increases were more than offset by a 16.8% decline in the U.S. dollar against
the Euro in the current period versus the comparative period last year. Average
list prices for NBSK pulp in Europe, which were approximately E420 ($440) per
tonne at the end of 2002, improved to approximately E441 ($480) per tonne in the
first quarter of 2003 and approximately E484 ($550) per tonne in the second
quarter of 2003, and were approximately E444 ($500) per tonne in the third
quarter of 2003. Our pulp sales realizations were E416 per tonne on average in
the current period, compared to E455 per tonne in the first nine months of 2002.
Pulp sales by volume increased to 221,926 tonnes in the current period from
217,555 tonnes in the comparative period of 2002.
Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for the pulp
operations were E101.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003,
compared to E98.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. On
average, fiber costs for pulp production increased marginally to E179 per tonne
in the current period from E178 per tonne in the nine months ended September 30,
2002. Depreciation within the pulp segment was E16.6 million in the current
period, compared to E16.2 million in the comparative period of 2002.
Our pulp operations generated an operating loss of E0.7 million in the nine
months ended September 30, 2003, compared to operating income of E8.0 million in
the nine months ended September 30, 2002.
Results for our paper segment during the current period reflect the
aforementioned exclusion of the results from the Landqart specialty paper mill,
which were included in the results for the nine months ended September 30, 2002.
Paper sales in the current period decreased to E42.5 million from E75.3 million
in the comparative period in 2002. Sales of specialty papers in the nine months
ended September 30, 2003 decreased to E30.2 million from E60.8 million in the
nine months ended September 30, 2002. Total paper sales volumes decreased to
46,988 tonnes in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from 65,057 tonnes in
the nine months ended September 30, 2002. On average, prices for specialty
papers realized in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 decreased by
approximately 23.1% as our product mix changed upon the deconsolidation of the
Landqart mill, and for printing papers decreased by approximately 8.1%, compared
to the nine months ended September 30, 2002.
Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for the paper
operations decreased to E42.8 million in the current period from E75.0 million
in the comparative period of 2002 as a result of lower paper sales. Paper
segment depreciation decreased to E1.5 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 2003 from E4.0 million in the prior period.
Our paper operations generated operating income of E0.6 million in the nine
months ended September 30, 2003, compared to E1.3 million in the nine months
ended September 30, 2002.
Consolidated general and administrative expenses decreased to E13.0 million in
the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from E20.4 million in the nine months
ended September 30, 2002,
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 19
primarily as a result of the exclusion of the results of the Landqart mill and a
decrease in professional fees in the current period.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we reported a loss from operations
of E3.1 million, compared to income from operations of E6.6 million in the
comparative period of 2002. Interest expense (excluding capitalized interest of
E12.5 million in respect of the Stendal project) in the current period decreased
to E6.9 million from E10.8 million in the comparative period of 2002, primarily
as a result of lower borrowing costs and lower indebtedness for our operating
units. During the current period, we made principal repayments of E12.7 million
in respect of the indebtedness of the Rosenthal NBSK pulp mill.
Pursuant to the Stendal Loan Facility, Stendal entered into the Stendal Interest
Rate Swap Agreements for the full term of the facility to manage the risk
exposure with respect to an aggregate maximum amount of approximately E612.6
million of the principal amount of the Stendal Loan Facility. Under these
swaps, Stendal pays a fixed rate and receives a floating rate with respect to
interest payments calculated on a notional amount. These swaps manage the
exposure to variable cash flow risk from the variable interest payments under
the Stendal Loan Facility. Stendal also entered into a currency forward
contract in connection with the Stendal Loan Facility in the third quarter of
2003. These derivative instruments are marked to market at the end of each
reporting period and all unrealized gains and losses are recognized in earnings
for such period. A holding loss of E22.5 million and a holding gain of E0.6
million before minority interests was recognized in respect of these swaps and
currency forward, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2003. A
holding loss of E22.0 million before minority interests was recognized in
respect of the swaps in the nine months ended September 30, 2002. We determine
market valuations based primarily upon values provided by our counterparties.
In addition, Rosenthal has entered into the Rosenthal Currency Swaps to manage
its exposure with respect to an aggregate amount of approximately E192.2 million
of the principal long-term indebtedness of the Rosenthal mill (the "Rosenthal
Loan Facility"). Rosenthal has also entered into currency forward contracts,
forward interest rate and interest cap contracts in connection with certain
indebtedness relating to the Rosenthal mill. These derivative instruments are
also marked to market at the end of each reporting period, and all gains and
losses are recognized in earnings for such period. In the nine months ended
September 30, 2003, we recognized a net gain of E18.3 million from these
derivative contracts, compared to E10.9 million in the prior period.
Minority interest in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 amounted to E8.5
million and represented the proportion of the loss of the Stendal project
allocated to the two minority shareholders of Stendal. Minority interest in the
nine months ended September 30, 2002 amounted to E8.0 million.
Our results for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 include an adjustment
of E5.5 million for the non-cash aggregate pre-tax earnings impact of
other-than-temporary impairment losses on certain of our available-for-sale
securities. This adjustment was recorded in other income (expense) in our
consolidated statement of operations. This adjustment did not affect our
shareholders' equity since all of our available-for-sale securities are marked
to market on a quarterly basis and unrealized gains or losses are reported
through the statement of comprehensive income in our financial statements and
recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) within shareholders' equity on our
balance sheet. Such unrealized gains or losses, the cost base and the current
marked to market value of our available-for-sale securities are further
described in the notes to our annual financial statements. These are legacy
investments and are unrelated to our pulp and paper operations.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 20
SFAS 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, EITF
03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and its Application to
Certain Investments, and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin 59, Accounting for
Noncurrent Marketable Equity Securities, provide guidance on determining when an
impairment is other-than-temporary, which requires judgment. In making this
judgment, we evaluate, among other factors, the duration and extent to which the
fair value of an investment is less than its cost; the financial health of and
business outlook for the investee, including factors such as industry and sector
performance, changes in technology, operational and financing cash flow, the
investee's financial position including its appraisal and net asset value,
market prices, its business plan and investment strategy; and our intent and
ability to hold the investment.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we reported a net loss of E9.2
million, or E0.54 per share on a basic and diluted basis, compared to a net loss
of E7.4 million, or E0.44 per share on a basic and diluted basis, in the nine
months ended September 30, 2002.
As the Stendal project is currently under construction and because of its
overall size relative to our other facilities, management uses consolidated
operating results excluding derivative items relating to the Stendal project to
measure the performance and results of our operating units. Management believes
this measure provides meaningful information for it and securityholders on the
performance of our operating facilities for a reporting period. Upon
commencement of commercial production, the Stendal project will be evaluated
with our other operating units. For the nine months ended September 30, 2003,
we reported a net loss of E9.2 million or E0.54 per share on a diluted basis.
If we had excluded items relating to the Stendal project by adding the loss on
derivative financial instruments of E22.5 million on the Stendal Interest Rate
Swap Agreements to, and subtracting the gain on the currency forward relating to
the Stendal Loan Facility of E0.6 million and minority interest of E8.5 million
from, the reported net loss of E9.2 million, we would have reported net income
of E4.3 million or E0.25 per share on a diluted basis. For the nine months
ended September 30, 2002, we reported a net loss of E7.4 million or E0.44 per
share on a diluted basis. If we had excluded items relating to the Stendal
project by adding the loss on derivative financial instruments of E22.0 million
on the Stendal Interest Rate Swap Agreements to, and subtracting minority
interests of E8.0 million from, the reported net loss of E7.4 million, we would
have reported net income of E6.6 million or E0.39 per share on a diluted basis.
This measure has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should not
be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results as
reported under generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP").
We generated operating earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization ("Operating EBITDA") of E15.1 million in the current period,
compared to Operating EBITDA of E26.9 million in the comparative period of 2002.
Operating EBITDA is defined as income (loss) from operations plus depreciation
and amortization. Operating EBITDA is calculated by adding depreciation and
amortization of E18.1 million and E20.2 million to the loss from operations of
E3.1 million and income from operations of E6.6 million for each of the nine
months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Management uses
Operating EBITDA as a benchmark measurement of its own operating results, and as
a benchmark relative to its competitors. Management considers it to be a
meaningful supplement to operating income as a performance measure primarily
because depreciation expense is not an actual cash cost, and varies widely from
company to company in a manner that management considers largely independent of
the underlying cost efficiency of their operating facilities. In addition, we
believe Operating EBITDA is commonly used by securities analysts, investors and
other interested parties to evaluate our financial performance. Operating
EBITDA does not reflect the impact of a number of items that affect our net
income (loss), including financing costs and the effect of derivative
instruments. Operating EBITDA is not a measure of
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 21
financial performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States, and should not be considered as an alternative to net income
(loss) or income (loss) from operations as a measure of performance, nor as an
alternative to net cash from operating activities as a measure of liquidity.
Operating EBITDA has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should
not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results
as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are: (i) Operating EBITDA does
not reflect our cash expenditures, or future requirements, for capital
expenditures or contractual commitments; (ii) Operating EBITDA does not reflect
changes in, or cash requirements for, working capital needs; and (iii) Operating
EBITDA does not reflect the significant interest expense, or the cash
requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on our
outstanding debt. Because of these limitations, operating EBITDA should not be
considered as a measure of liquidity or cash available to us to invest in the
growth of our business. Because all companies do not calculate Operating EBITDA
in the same manner, Operating EBITDA as calculated by us may differ from
Operating EBITDA as calculated by other companies.
The following table provides a reconciliation of net loss to (loss) income from
operations and Operating EBITDA for the periods indicated:
Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
Net loss, per income statement E (9,173) E (7,441)
Less: Minority interest (8,499) (8,016)
Add: Income taxes 226 11
Total other expense 14,395 22,071
---------- ----------
(Loss) income from operations (3,051) 6,625
Add: Depreciation and amortization 18,135 20,231
---------- ----------
Operating EBITDA E 15,084 E 26,856
========== ==========
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 22
THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER
30, 2002
Selected sales data for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 is as
follows:
Three Months Ended September 30,
--------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
REVENUES BY PRODUCT CLASS
Pulp(1) E 30,004 E 30,878
Papers
Specialty papers(2) 8,610 19,830
Printing papers 5,047 4,046
---------- ----------
Total papers 13,657 23,876
========== ==========
Total(1) E 43,661 E 54,754
========== ==========
REVENUES BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
Germany E 19,682 E 23,253
European Union(3) 18,493 16,797
Eastern Europe and Other 5,486 14,704
---------- ----------
Total(1) E 43,661 E 54,754
========== ==========
SALES VOLUME BY PRODUCT CLASS. (tonnes)
Pulp(1) 73,747 67,757
Papers
Specialty papers(2) 8,745 15,265
Printing papers 7,234 5,715
---------- ----------
Total papers 15,979 20,980
---------- ----------
Total(1) 89,726 88,737
========== ==========
________
(1) Excluding intercompany sales volumes of 1,555 and 2,158 tonnes of pulp and
intercompany net sales revenues of approximately E0.6 million and E1.0
million in the three months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002,
respectively.
(2) As of December 31, 2002, our interest in Landqart AG is no longer
consolidated and is included in our financial results on an equity basis.
Accordingly, sales from the Landqart specialty paper mill are not included
in our results for the three months ended September 30, 2003, but are
included for the three months ended September 30, 2002. The Landqart
specialty paper mill sold approximately 4,537 tonnes for approximately E9.8
million in the three months ended September 30, 2002.
(3) Not including Germany.
In the three months ended September 30, 2003, total revenues decreased to E45.8
million from E56.9 million in the three months ended September 30, 2002,
primarily as the current period does not include the revenues of the Landqart
specialty paper mill. Primarily as a result thereof, pulp and paper revenues
decreased to E43.7 million in the current period from E54.8 million in the
comparative period in 2002.
Cost of pulp and paper sales in the three months ended September 30, 2003
decreased to E45.4 million from E47.7 million in the three months ended
September 30, 2002, primarily as a result of the deconsolidation of Landqart.
Pulp sales in the current period were E30.0 million, compared to E31.0 million
in the second quarter of 2003, E31.4 million in the first quarter of 2003 and
E30.9 million in the comparative period of 2002. U.S. dollar denominated list
pulp price increases were more than offset by a 12.6% decline in the U.S. dollar
against the Euro for the current period versus the comparative period last year.
Average list prices for NBSK pulp in Europe, which were approximately E486
($480) per tonne at the end of the third quarter of 2002 and approximately E420
($440) per tonne at the end of 2002, were approximately E444 ($500) per tonne in
the current period. Our pulp sales realizations were
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 23
E407 per tonne on average in the current period, compared to E445 per tonne in
the second quarter of 2003, E400 per tonne in the first quarter of 2003 and E456
per tonne in the third quarter of 2002. Pulp sales by volume were 73,747 tonnes
in the current period, compared to 69,700 tonnes in the second quarter of 2003,
78,479 tonnes in the first quarter of 2003 and 67,757 tonnes in the comparative
period of 2002.
Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for the pulp
operations were E33.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003,
compared to E29.9 million in the three months ended September 30, 2002. On
average, per tonne fiber costs for pulp production decreased by approximately
1.7% and 5.4% compared to the three months ended June 30, 2003 and March 31,
2003, respectively, and by approximately 1.1% compared to the three months ended
September 30, 2002. Fiber costs amounted to approximately E174 per tonne in the
current period, compared to E176 per tonne in the third quarter of 2002.
Depreciation within the pulp segment was E5.7 million in the current period,
compared to E5.4 million in the comparative period of 2002.
Our pulp operations generated an operating loss of E1.8 million in the three
months ended September 30, 2003, compared to operating income of E2.6 million in
the three months ended June 30, 2003, an operating loss of E1.4 million in the
three months ended March 31, 2003 and operating income of E2.5 million in the
three months ended September 30, 2002.
Results for our paper segment during the current period exclude the results from
the Landqart specialty paper mill, which were included in the results for the
three months ended September 30, 2002. Paper sales in the current period
decreased to E13.7 million from E23.9 million in the comparative period in 2002.
Sales of specialty papers in the three months ended September 30, 2003 decreased
to E8.6 million from E19.8 million in the three months ended September 30, 2002.
Total paper sales volumes decreased to 15,979 tonnes in the three months ended
September 30, 2003 from 20,980 tonnes in the three months ended September 30,
2002. On average, prices for specialty papers realized in the three months
ended September 30, 2003 decreased by approximately 24.2% as our product mix
changed upon the deconsolidation of the Landqart mill, and for printing papers
decreased by approximately 1.5%, compared to the three months ended September
30, 2002.
Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for our paper
operations decreased to E14.7 million in the current period from E24.3 million
in the comparative period of 2002 as a result of lower paper sales. Paper
segment depreciation decreased to E0.6 million in the three months ended
September 30, 2003 from E1.3 million in the prior period.
Our paper operations generated an operating loss of E0.7 million in the three
months ended September 30, 2003, compared with operating income of E11,000 in
the comparative period of 2002.
Consolidated general and administrative expenses decreased to E4.2 million in
the three months ended September 30, 2003 from E6.0 million in the three months
ended September 30, 2002, primarily as a result of the exclusion of the results
of the Landqart mill and a decrease in professional fees in the three months
ended September 30, 2003.
For the three months ended September 30, 2003, we reported a loss from
operations of E4.3 million, compared to income from operations of E2.0 million
in the comparative period of 2002. Interest expense (excluding capitalized
interest of E5.3 million in respect of the Stendal project) in the current
period decreased to E2.2 million from E2.7 million in the comparative period of
2002, primarily as a result of lower borrowing costs and lower indebtedness for
our operating units.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 24
In the current quarter, a non-cash holding gain of E5.4 million before minority
interests was recognized in respect of the Stendal Interest Rate Swap
Agreements, compared to recognizing a holding loss of E22.0 million in the prior
period in respect of these swaps. Stendal also entered into a currency forward
contract in connection with the Stendal Loan Facility in the current quarter. A
holding gain of E0.6 million before minority interests was recognized in respect
of the currency forward contract in the current quarter. In addition, in the
three months ended September 30, 2003, we recognized a net gain of E3.7 million
from the Rosenthal Currency Swaps, and currency forward contracts, forward
interest rate and interest cap contracts in connection with certain indebtedness
relating to the Rosenthal mill, compared to recognizing a net loss of E4.0
million in the prior period in respect thereof.
Minority interest in the three months ended September 30, 2003 amounted to
E(1.9) million and represented the proportion of the gain from the Stendal
project allocated to the two minority shareholders of Stendal. Minority
interest in the three months ended September 30, 2002 amounted to E8.0 million.
For the three months ended September 30, 2003, we reported net income of E0.9
million, or E0.05 per share on a basic and diluted basis, compared to a net loss
of E20.6 million, or E1.23 per share on a basic and diluted basis, in the three
months ended September 30, 2002.
As the Stendal project is currently under construction and because of its
overall size relative to our other facilities, management uses consolidated
operating results excluding derivative items relating to the Stendal project to
measure the performance and results of our operating units. Management believes
this measure provides meaningful information for it and securityholders on the
performance of our operating facilities for a reporting period. Upon
commencement of commercial production, the Stendal project will be evaluated
with our other operating units. For the three months ended September 30, 2003,
we reported net income of E0.9 million or E0.05 per share on a diluted basis.
If we had excluded items relating to the Stendal project by subtracting the gain
on the Stendal Interest Rate Swap Agreements of E5.4 million and currency
forward relating to the Stendal Loan Facility of E0.6 million from, and adding
minority interest of E1.9 million to, the reported net income of E0.9 million,
we would have reported a net loss of E3.2 million or E0.19 per share on a
diluted basis. For the three months ended September 30, 2002, we reported a net
loss of E20.6 million or E1.23 per share on a diluted basis. If we had excluded
items relating to the Stendal project by adding the loss on the Stendal Interest
Rate Swap Agreements of E22.0 million to, and subtracting the minority interests
of E8.0 million from, the reported net loss of E20.6 million, we would have
reported a net loss of E6.6 million or E0.39 per share on a diluted basis. This
measure has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be
considered in isolation, or as a substitute for an analysis of our results as
reported under GAAP.
We generated Operating EBITDA of E2.0 million in the current quarter, compared
to an Operating EBITDA of E7.7 million in the second quarter of 2003, Operating
EBITDA of E5.5 million in the first quarter of 2003 and Operating EBITDA of E8.7
million in the comparative quarter of 2002. Operating EBITDA has significant
limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation, or
as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. See
"Results of Operations - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 Compared to Nine
Months Ended September 30, 2002" above for additional information.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 25
The following table provides a reconciliation of net income (loss) to (loss)
income from operations and Operating EBITDA for the periods indicated:
Three Months Ended September 30,
--------------------------------
2003 2002
---------- ----------
(unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
Net income (loss), per income statement E 876 E (20,597)
Add (less): Minority interest 1,880 (8,016)
Income taxes 28 -
Other (income) or expense (7,084) 30,578
---------- ----------
(Loss) income from operations (4,300) 1,965
Add: Depreciation and amortization 6,254 6,742
---------- ----------
Operating EBITDA E 1,954 E 8,707
========== ==========
STENDAL PROJECT STATUS
We are implementing the Stendal project, which is a "greenfield" project to
construct a new state-of-the-art NBSK pulp mill. The mill will have an annual
production capacity of approximately 552,000 tonnes and will be located near the
town of Stendal in Germany. As at September 30, 2003, progress on the Stendal
project was substantially on schedule and there were no significant deviations
from the project budget. At September 30, 2003, the project was approximately
83% completed and approximately 97% of the total engineering was finished. In
addition, approximately 85% of the civil works was completed. Progress was made
in a number of areas including the erection of the recovery boiler and power
boiler, the assembly and installation of evaporation units, the erection of the
main equipment for the recausticizing plant and the installation of the
fiberline wash presses. In addition, a debarking drum was shipped to the site
and lifted into position. Progress was also made in connection with the
construction of the infrastructure of the mill site including power, gas and
road connections. Power was connected to the mill site and a temporary rail
connection to the mill site was available at the end of October 2003, and the
gas connection to the site is expected to be completed around the end of
December 2003.
At the end of September 2003, Stendal employed 69 people, most of whom are part
of the management organization charged with supervising the implementation and
completion of the Stendal project.
During the third quarter, many key positions were filled in respect of the
Stendal project, including for the production and maintenance management and
wood procurement and logistics operations, as well as the recovery, power and
effluent plants. In addition, a number of operating personnel for the mill were
hired and training of personnel in connection with the operation of the mill was
commenced. A number of key positions are expected to be filled in the fourth
quarter of 2003 and first quarter of 2004, including in the areas of purchasing,
sales, and technology and customer support.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 26
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following table is a summary of selected financial information for the
periods indicated:
As at As at
September 30, 2003 December 31,2002
-------------------- ----------------
(unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
FINANCIAL POSITION
Working capital E (58,049) E 6,328
Properties 649,780 441,990
Total assets(1) 828,758 599,750
Long-term debt(2) 476,126 351,878
Shareholders' equity 125,983 124,969
___________
(1) Includes approximately E404.3 million and E186.9 million related to
properties construction in progress at the site of the Stendal mill as at
September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively.
(2) Includes approximately E287.4 million and E146.5 million related to
construction in progress at the site of the Stendal mill as at September
30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively.
At September 30, 2003, our cash and cash equivalents were E17.6 million,
compared to E30.3 million at the end of 2002. We also had E8.4 million of cash
restricted to pay construction in progress costs payable and E19.1 million of
cash restricted in a debt service account, both relating to the Stendal project.
In addition, we had E21.2 million of cash restricted in a debt service account
relating to the Rosenthal mill. Short-term trading securities were E0.5 million
at September 30, 2003, compared to E0.3 million at December 31, 2002. We had a
working capital deficit of E58.0 million (including Stendal construction costs
payable of E57.8 million and bridge financing and related expenses of E56.5
million) at September 30, 2003, compared to working capital of E6.3 million at
December 31, 2002. The change in our working capital position is primarily
attributable to an increase in Stendal construction costs payable for which we
had not drawn down funds under the Stendal Loan Facility as at September 30,
2003 and the reclassification of one of our bridge loans in the principal amount
of E30 million from long-term to current liabilities. The Stendal construction
costs payable will be paid from the Stendal Loan Facility in the ordinary
course. The bridge loans and related amounts were repaid on October 10, 2003.
See "Certain Relationships" below.
On October 10, 2003, we completed the sale of $82.5 million in aggregate
principal amount of convertible senior subordinated notes due October 15, 2010.
The notes bear interest at a rate of 8.5% per annum and are convertible into our
shares of beneficial interest at a conversion price of $7.75 per share. The net
proceeds from the offering of approximately E76.1 million were used to repay in
full our indebtedness, including fees and accrued interest, under two bridge
loan facilities aggregating approximately E65.9 million and the balance will be
used for general corporate purposes, including working capital.
We expect to continue to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to pay
our interest and debt service expenses and meet the working and maintenance
capital requirements for our current operations. We currently do not have any
revolving credit facilities. From time to time, we have entered into project
specific credit facilities to finance capital projects and expect to continue to
do so, subject to availability. We expect to meet the capital requirements for
the Stendal mill, including working capital and potential losses incurred during
start-up, through shareholder advances already made to Stendal and the Stendal
Loan Facility, which includes a revolving line of credit for the mill, and, when
operational, cash flow from operations.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 27
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Operating activities in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 provided cash
of E6.9 million, compared to E24.0 million in the nine months ended September
30, 2002. Net changes in trading securities used cash of E0.2 million in the
nine months ended September 30, 2003, compared to providing cash of E4.0 million
in the nine months ended September 30, 2002. An increase in receivables in the
current period used cash of E8.1 million, compared to a decrease in the same
providing cash of E5.6 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2002. An
increase in cumulative unrealized gains on derivatives used cash of E18.3
million in the current period, compared to a decrease in the same providing cash
of E0.1 million in the comparative period in 2002. An increase in inventories
used cash of E6.6 million in the current period, compared to E0.7 million in the
comparable period of 2002. An increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
provided cash of E11.5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2003,
compared to a decrease in the same using cash of E12.4 million in the nine
months ended September 30, 2002.
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Investing activities in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 used cash of
E225.9 million, primarily as a result of the acquisition of properties, net of
investment grants received, of which E217.9 million was attributable to the
Stendal project, compared to E155.0 million in the nine months ended September
30, 2002, of which E145.9 million was attributable to the Stendal project.
We have applied for investment grants from the federal and state governments of
Germany and have claims of E62.6 million outstanding as of September 30, 2003.
We expect to receive the full amount of our currently outstanding claims within
12 months. We have received investment grants totaling E66.2 million with
respect to the Stendal project in the nine months ended September 30, 2003. In
accordance with our accounting policies, we do not record these grants until
they are received. These grants reduce the cost basis of the assets purchased
with them.
Our paper mills have or will have to replace certain equipment that was damaged
as a result of flooding in parts of Germany and other eastern European countries
during the third quarter of 2002. The aggregate equipment costs are estimated to
be approximately E3.3 million, of which approximately E1.6 million was incurred
in the nine months ended September 30, 2003. We have applied for German
government grants and for assistance under special credit programs instituted by
the German government for flooding victims in connection with these and other
related costs. As at September 30, 2003, we had received approximately E3.4
million of such grants, of which E1.8 million was recognized as income in the
current period and the balance has either been deferred or deducted from the
cost of property acquired. Although we have received approval for the full
amount of the grants and assistance applied for, there can be no assurance that
we will receive any unpaid amounts of such grants and assistance.
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Financing activities provided cash of E206.2 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 2003. A net increase in indebtedness, primarily related to the
Stendal project, provided cash of E186.9 million and an increase in restricted
cash used cash of E0.5 million in the current period. We made principal
repayments of E12.7 million in connection with the Rosenthal Loan Facility in
the nine months ended September 30, 2003. The issuance of shares in connection
with the exercise of options provided cash of E0.9 million in the current
period. Financing activities provided cash of
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 28
E142.7 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2002, primarily as a
result of a net increase in indebtedness relating to the Stendal project.
In 2003, our paper operations secured two term credit facilities aggregating
approximately E2.5 million, which facilities along with certain government
grants are being utilized to repair flooding damage suffered by the mills in
2002. One facility totaling approximately E1.0 million matures on June 30, 2009,
bears interest at a rate of 2.65% per annum and is repayable in ten equal
semi-annual installments. The other facility in the amount of approximately
E1.5 million matures on June 30, 2013, bears interest at a rate of 2.65% per
annum and is repayable in 15 equal semi-annual installments. Both facilities are
guaranteed as to 80% thereof by a German governmental agency. An aggregate of
approximately E1.8 million was utilized under these facilities as of September
30, 2003.
In addition, in 2003, our Fahrbrucke paper mill secured three credit facilities
aggregating E5.5 million, which facilities along with certain government grants
will be utilized to finance equipment and construction costs associated with
expanding, adapting and improving the efficiency of the paper machine at the
mill. This will also permit the mill to produce pre-impregnated decor paper.
Two of the facilities aggregating E3.5 million mature on December 30, 2012 and
bear interest at rates between 4.15% and 4.3% per annum and are repayable in 16
equal semi-annual installments. The other facility in the amount of E2.0 million
matures on March 31, 2009 and bears interest at a rate equal to the three-month
Euribor rate plus 1.75% per annum and is repayable in 16 equal quarterly
installments. All three facilities are guaranteed as to 80% thereof by a German
state government. As at September 30, 2003, we had utilized approximately E2.5
million of such facilities.
Other than the agreements entered into by Stendal relating to the Stendal
project, we had no material commitments to acquire assets or operating
businesses at September 30, 2003. We anticipate that there will be acquisitions
of businesses or commitments to projects in the future. To achieve our long-term
goals of expanding our asset and earnings base through the acquisition of
interests in companies and assets in the pulp and paper and related businesses,
and organically through high return capital expenditures at our operating
facilities, we will require substantial capital resources. The required
necessary resources for such long-term goals will be generated from cash flow
from operations, cash on hand, borrowing against our assets, the sale of debt
and/or equity securities and/or asset sales.
FOREIGN CURRENCY
We hold certain assets and liabilities in U.S. dollars, Swiss francs and, to a
lesser extent, in Canadian dollars. Accordingly, our consolidated financial
results are subject to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.
We translate foreign denominated assets and liabilities into Euros at the rate
of exchange on the balance sheet date. Unrealized gains or losses from these
translations are recorded as shareholders' equity on the balance sheet and do
not affect our net earnings.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we reported a net E1.2 million
foreign exchange translation gain and, as a result, the cumulative foreign
exchange translation gain increased to E4.7 million at September 30, 2003 from
E3.5 million at December 31, 2002.
Based upon the average exchange rate for the nine months ended September 30,
2003, the U.S. dollar decreased by approximately 16.8% in value against the Euro
compared to the same period in 2002.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 29
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS
As part of the financing for the Stendal project, we obtained a E15 million
bridge loan from Babcock & Brown Investment Management Partners LP ("Babcock &
Brown"), and a E30 million bridge loan arranged by a Swiss banking subsidiary of
MFC Bancorp Ltd. ("MFC"), with variable interest rates and specified fees,
which were repaid on October 10, 2003. Babcock & Brown was our advisor in
connection with the overall financing arrangements for the Stendal project. MFC
was our approximately 92% owned subsidiary until June 1996, when we spun-off
approximately 83% of the issued shares of MFC to our shareholders by way of a
special dividend-in-kind as, among other things, there were no significant
synergies between our pulp and paper business and MFC's financial services
business. Prior to the spin-off, MFC provided and arranged for the majority of
our financial requirements. In addition to the bridge loan, we have other
indebtedness to MFC in the amount of approximately E7.7 million which matures in
April 2004.
We currently hold, directly and indirectly, approximately 575,683 common shares
of MFC, representing approximately 4.4% of the outstanding common shares of MFC.
Prior to our spin-off of MFC in 1996, Jimmy S.H. Lee, our Chairman, Chief
Executive Officer and a trustee was also Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
MFC. Mr. Lee is currently a non-executive director of the Swiss banking
subsidiary of MFC and he and members of his family, directly and indirectly, own
approximately 2% of MFC's outstanding shares, which shares were in part acquired
pursuant to the 1996 spin-off. Ian Rigg, a trustee and our former Chief
Financial Officer, became a Vice President of MFC in August 2003.
We have in the course of our business entered into transactions and other
arrangements with MFC and its affiliates. From time to time, our Rosenthal pulp
mill sells pulp to a commodities trading subsidiary of MFC, both for its own
account and as an agent for sales to certain parts of Europe. All such
transactions are conducted on market terms on an arm's length basis as provided
for in the Rosenthal project loan agreements.
In December 2002, we contributed our 80% interest in Landqart to a limited
partnership in exchange for a 49% interest therein. The other limited partner of
the limited partnership is MFC and the general partner is wholly-owned by Cade
Struktur Corporation ("CSC"). CSC is a Canadian public company in which we own
an approximate 26% interest and MFC owns 25% of CSC's issued and outstanding
shares. Mr. Lee, our Chief Executive Officer, previously served as an officer
and director of CSC from July 2001 to December 2002. During such time, Mr. Lee
received no remuneration of any sort from CSC and did not have any ownership
interest therein. At the time of the Landqart reorganization, Mr. Lee was
neither an officer nor a director of CSC. MFC assists with purchases and sales
for Landqart. In addition, from time to time, MFC assists with supplier
arrangements for Landqart. Such arrangements are negotiated between Landqart and
MFC. Mr. Lee is a director of Landqart.
Through a minority owned affiliate, MFC has an indirect minority interest in AIG
Altmark Industrie AG, which is a 7% shareholder of Stendal.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 30
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires our 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 periods.
Our management routinely makes judgments and estimates about the effects of
matters that are inherently uncertain. As the number of variables and
assumptions affecting the probable future resolution of the uncertainties
increase, these judgments become even more subjective and complex. We have
identified certain accounting policies that are the most important to the
portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations.
For information about our critical accounting policies, see our annual report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
The statements in this report that are not based on historical facts are called
"forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements appear in a number of
different places in this report and can be identified by words such as
"estimates", "projects", "expects", "intends", "believes", "plans", or their
negatives or other comparable words. Also look for discussions of strategy that
involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include statements
regarding the outlook for our future operations, forecasts of future costs and
expenditures, the evaluation of market conditions, the outcome of legal
proceedings, the adequacy of reserves, or other business plans. You are
cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees and may
involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from
those in the forward-looking statements due to risks facing us or due to actual
facts differing from the assumptions underlying our estimates. Some of these
risks and assumptions include those set forth in reports and other documents we
have filed with or furnished to the SEC, including in our annual report on Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 and current reports on Form 8-K
furnished on May 12, 2003 and September 15, 2003. We advise you that these
cautionary remarks expressly qualify in their entirety all forward-looking
statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf. Unless required
by law, we do not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements
based on unanticipated events or changed expectations. However, you should
carefully review the reports and other documents we file from time to time with
the SEC.
CYCLICAL NATURE OF BUSINESS; COMPETITIVE POSITION
The pulp and paper business is cyclical in nature and markets for our principal
products are characterized by periods of supply and demand imbalance, which in
turn affects product prices. The markets for pulp and paper are highly
competitive and sensitive to cyclical changes in industry capacity and in the
global economy, all of which can have a significant influence on selling prices
and our earnings. Demand for pulp and paper products has historically been
determined by the level of economic growth and has been closely tied to overall
business activity. During the past three years, pulp prices have fallen
significantly. Our competitive position is influenced by the availability and
quality of raw materials and our experience in relation to other producers with
respect to inflation, energy, transportation, labor costs, productivity and
currency exchange rates. There can be no assurance that we will continue to be
competitive in the future, as a result of new technological advancements or
otherwise.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 31
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT
MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risks from changes in interest rates, foreign currency
exchange rates and equity prices which may affect our results of operations and
financial condition and, consequently, our fair value. We manage these risks
through internal risk management policies as well as the use of derivative
instruments. We use derivative instruments to reduce or limit our exposure to
interest rate and currency risks. We may in the future use derivative
instruments to reduce or limit our exposure to fluctuations in pulp prices. We
also use derivative instruments either to augment our potential gains or to
reduce our potential losses, depending on our management's perception of future
economic events and developments. These types of derivative instruments are
generally highly speculative in nature. They are also very volatile as they are
highly leveraged given that margin requirements are relatively low in proportion
to notional amounts.
Many of our strategies, including the use of derivative instruments and the
types of derivative instruments selected by us, are based on historical trading
patterns and correlations and our management's expectations of future events.
However, these strategies may not be fully effective in all market environments
or against all types of risks. Unexpected market developments may affect our
risk management strategies during this time, and unanticipated developments
could impact our risk management strategies in the future. If any of the variety
of instruments and strategies we utilize are not effective, we may incur losses.
Rosenthal has entered into the Rosenthal Currency Swaps in connection with our
long-term indebtedness relating to the conversion of the Rosenthal mill to the
production of kraft pulp. These derivatives have been contracted by Rosenthal
using a dedicated credit line within the Rosenthal Loan Facility and assigned
for this purpose, and are subject to prescribed controls, including certain
maximum amounts for notional and at-risk amounts. As kraft pulp prices are
quoted in U.S. dollars and the majority of our business transactions are
denominated in Euros, Rosenthal has entered into the Rosenthal Currency Swaps to
reduce the effects of exchange rate fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the
Euro on notional amounts under the Rosenthal Loan Facility. Under the Rosenthal
Currency Swaps, Rosenthal effectively pays the principal and interest in U.S.
dollars and at U.S. dollar borrowing rates. In the nine months ended September
30, 2003, Rosenthal entered into an additional Rosenthal Currency Swap for the
notional amount of E124.2 million maturing on September 30, 2008.
In addition, Rosenthal has entered into interest rate contracts to either fix or
limit the interest rates in connection with certain of its indebtedness, and
various currency forwards to reduce or limit its exposure to currency risks and
to augment its potential gains or to reduce its potential losses.
Stendal has entered into the Stendal Interest Rate Swap Agreements in connection
with its long-term indebtedness relating to the Stendal project to fix the
interest rate under the Stendal Loan Facility at the then low level, relative to
its historical trend and projected variable interest rate. Under the Stendal
Interest Rate Swap Agreements, Stendal pays a fixed rate and receives a floating
rate with interest payments being calculated on a notional amount. The interest
rates payable under the Stendal Loan Facility were swapped at the fixed rates
based on the Eur-Euribor rate for the repayment periods of the tranches under
the Stendal Loan Facility. Stendal effectively converted the Stendal Loan
Facility from a variable interest rate loan into a fixed interest rate loan,
thereby reducing interest rate uncertainty.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 32
In the third quarter of 2003, Stendal also entered into a currency forward
contract for the notional amount of $10.0 million maturing in August 2004 to
reduce or limit its exposure to currency risks and to augment its potential
gains or reduce its potential losses.
For more information concerning market risk and our derivative instruments, see
our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 on file with
the SEC and current report on Form 8-K dated September 15, 2003 furnished to the
SEC.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Our management, with the participation of our Principal Executive Officer and
Principal Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure
controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and
15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange
Act")), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such
evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer have
concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and
procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on
a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that
we file or submit under the Exchange Act. It should be noted that any system of
controls is based in part upon certain assumptions designed to obtain reasonable
(and not absolute) assurance as to its effectiveness, and there can be no
assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals. In
addition, no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as
defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during
the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are
reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial
reporting.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 33
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
-----------------
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are subject to routine litigation incidental to our business. We do not
believe that the outcome of such litigation will have a material adverse effect
on our business or financial condition.
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
On October 10, 2003, we completed the sale of $82.5 million in aggregate
principal amount of convertible senior subordinated notes due October 15, 2010.
The notes bear interest at a rate of 8.5% per annum and are convertible into our
shares of beneficial interest at a conversion price of $7.75 per share, which is
equal to a conversion rate of approximately 129 shares per $1,000 principal
amount of the notes, subject to adjustment for certain customary anti-dilution
matters. The notes were offered only to qualified institutional buyers in
reliance on Rule 144A and to certain buyers outside of the United States in
reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The
notes were sold to RBC Dain Rauscher Inc., as the initial purchaser. The
aggregate initial purchaser's discounts of the offering were approximately $3.4
million.
In connection with the sale of the notes, we amended our shareholder rights plan
to provide that the determination of the percentage of outstanding shares of
beneficial interest beneficially owned by a person, entity or group of
associated persons shall be based upon the number of shares of beneficial
interest outstanding as at the date of determination as if the then outstanding
notes had been fully converted and to amend the percentage at which a person,
entity or group of associated persons becomes an "acquiring person" as defined
in the rights plan from 25 percent to 15 percent. See our Form 8-K dated
October 15, 2003 on file with the SEC.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITYHOLDERS
We held our annual meeting of shareholders on August 22, 2003. At the meeting,
two Class III trustees were elected to our board of trustees, the appointment of
Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent auditors was ratified and our 2003
Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan was adopted.
The votes cast by shareholders at the meeting as to the election of trustees
were as follows:
Abstentions and
Votes For Votes Withheld Broker Non-Votes
--------- -------------- ----------------
Kenneth A. Shields 9,525,666 30,907 -
Guy W. Adams . . . 9,330,042 226,531 -
Jimmy S.H. Lee, C.S. Moon, William McCartney, R. Ian Rigg and Graeme Witts
continued their respective terms as trustees.
In connection with the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP
as our independent auditors, shareholders cast 9,501,773 votes in favour of and
4,500 votes against the ratification of such appointment, and there were 50,300
abstentions and broker non-votes.
In connection with the approval of the adoption of our 2003 Non-Qualified Stock
Option Plan, shareholders cast 7,112,181 votes in favour of and 2,424,084 votes
against the adoption of such plan, and there were 20,308 abstentions and broker
non-votes.
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 34
We also held a special meeting of shareholders on October 3, 2003 at which
shareholder approval was sought and obtained for the issuance of up to
10,750,000 of our shares of beneficial interest upon the conversion of
convertible senior subordinated notes that we proposed to issue in a private
offering, subject to adjustment for customary anti-dilution matters, as
described in our proxy statement dated September 22, 2003. At the special
meeting, 9,109,861 shares were voted in favour of and 90,665 shares were voted
against the proposal, and there were 3,001 abstentions and broker non-votes.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) EXHIBITS
4.1 Indenture dated as of October 10, 2003 between Mercer International
Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, N.A. Incorporated by reference to
the Company's Form 8-K dated October 15, 2003, previously filed with
the SEC.
4.2 Registration Rights Agreement dated as of October 10, 2003 between
Mercer International Inc. and RBC Dain Rauscher Inc. Incorporated by
reference to the Company's Form 8-K dated October 15, 2003, previously
filed with the SEC.
4.3 First Amendment dated as of October 5, 2003 to the Rights Agreement
dated as of August 20, 1993 between Mercer International Inc. and
Computershare Trust Company of Canada. Incorporated by reference to
the Company's Form 8-K dated August 6, 2003, previously filed with the
SEC.
4.4 Second Amendment dated as of October 10, 2003 to the Rights Agreement
dated as of August 20, 1993 between Mercer International Inc. and
Computershare Trust Company of Canada. Incorporated by reference to
the Company's Form 8-K dated October 15, 2003, previously filed with
the SEC.
10.1 Purchase Agreement dated as of October 6, 2003 between Mercer
International Inc. and RBC Dain Rauscher Inc.
10.2 Employment Agreement dated for reference August 7, 2003 between Mercer
International Inc. and David Gandossi. Incorporated by reference to
the Company's Form 8-K dated August 11, 2003, previously filed with
the SEC.
10.3 Settlement Agreement dated as of August 5, 2003 among Mercer
International Inc., Greenlight Capital, L.L.C. and Greenlight Capital,
Inc. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 8-K dated August
6, 2003, previously filed with the SEC.
31.1 Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2 Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1* Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
32.2* Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
________________
* In accordance with Release 33-8212 of the Commission, these
Certifications: (i) are "furnished" to the
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 35
Commission and are not "filed" for the purposes of liability under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and (ii) are not to be subject
to automatic incorporation by reference into any of the Company's
registration statements filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
for the purposes of liability thereunder or any offering memorandum, unless
the Company specifically incorporates them by reference therein.
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
The Company filed the following reports on Form 8-K with respect to the
indicated items during the third quarter of 2003:
Form 8-K dated July 16, 2003
Item 4. Changes in Registrant's Certifying Accountant
Form 8-K dated August 6, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K/A dated August 6, 2003
Item 4. Changes in Registrant's Certifying Accountant
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated August 11, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated August 14, 2003
Item 12. Results of Operations and Financial Condition
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated September 12, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated September 15, 2003
Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure
Form 10-K dated October 6, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated October 10, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
Form 8-K dated October 15, 2003
Item 5. Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure
Item 7. Exhibits
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 36
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.
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
By: /s/ David M. Gandossi
--------------------------
David M. Gandossi
Secretary and Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 13, 2003
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT - PAGE 37