<PAGE>
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON SEPTEMBER 19, 1996
REGISTRATION NO. 333-3584
U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
AMENDMENT NO. 2
TO
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
NEVADA 5064 88-0336997
(State of Registrant's (Registrant's Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation) Classification Code Number) Identification No.)
________________________
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
DAVID K. MOSKOWITZ, ESQ.
90 INVERNESS CIRCLE EAST SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL AND SECRETARY
ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112 ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
(303) 799-8222 90 INVERNESS CIRCLE EAST
(Address, Including Zip Code, and ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112
Telephone Number, including Area Code, (303) 799-8222 EXT. 5323
of Registrant's Principal Executive Office) (Name, Address, Including Zip Code, and
Telephone Number of Agent for Service)
</TABLE>
COPIES TO:
<PAGE>
WILLIAM APPLETON, ESQ. ROBERT N. HICKEY, ESQ.
BAKER & HOSTETLER SULLIVAN & WORCESTER LLP
3200 NATIONAL CITY CENTER 1025 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, N.W.
1900 E. 9TH STREET WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44114-3485 (202) 775-8190
(216) 621-0200
APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: Upon the
Effective Time of the Merger, as defined in the Information Statement --
Prospectus included herein.
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance
with General Instruction G, check the following box. / /
The Registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or
dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this
registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with
Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the registration
statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting
pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET PURSUANT TO ITEM 501(b) OF REGULATION S-K
FORM S-4 ITEM HEADING OR LOCATION IN
NUMBER AND CAPTION INFORMATION STATEMENT -- PROSPECTUS
A. Information about the Transaction
1. Forepart of Registration Statement and
Outside Front Cover Page of Information
Statement -- Prospectus...................Outside Front Cover Page of
Information Statement --
Prospectus
2. Inside Front and Outside Back Cover
Pages of Information Statement --
Prospectus................................Inside Front Cover Page of
Information Statement --
Prospectus; Available
Information; Table of
Contents
3. Risk Factors, Ratio of Earnings to Fixed
Charges and Other Information.............Summary of Information
Statement --Prospectus;
Selected Financial
Information; Risk Factors
4. Terms of the Transaction...................Summary of Information
Statement --Prospectus;
The Merger; Comparison of
Shareholder Rights;
EchoStar Communications
Corporation - Description
of Capital Stock
<PAGE>
5. Pro Forma Financial Information............ *
6. Material Contracts with Company Being
Acquired..................................Summary of the Exchange
and Merger; the Merger;
Risk Factors
7. Additional Information Required for
Reoffering by Persons and Parties
Deemed to be Underwriters................. *
8. Interests of Named Experts and Counsel..... *
9. Disclosure of Commission Position on
Indemnification for Securities Act
Liabilities............................... *
B. Information About the Registrant
10. Information With Respect to S-3
Registrants............................... *
11. Incorporation of Certain Information by
Reference................................. *
12. Information With Respect to S-2 or S-3
Registrants............................... *
13. Incorporation of Certain Information by
Reference................................. *
14. Information With Respect to Registrants
Other Than S-2 or S-3 Registrants.........Available Information;
Summary of Information
Statement -- Prospectus;
Selected Financial Data
EchoStar Communications
Corporation; Index to
Financial Statements of
EchoStar Communications
Corporation
C. Information About Company Being Acquired
15. Information With Respect to S-3
Companies................................. *
16. Information With Respect to S-2 or S-3
Companies................................. *
17. Information With Respect to Companies
Other Than S-2 or S-3 Companies...........Summary of Information
Statement -- Prospectus;
Direct Broadcasting
Satellite Corporation;
Index to Financial
Statements of Direct
Broadcasting Satellite
Corporation
D. Voting and Management Information
18. Information if Proxies, Consents or
Authorizations are to be Solicited........ *
19. Information if Proxies, Consents or
Authorizations are not to be Solicited in
an Exchange Offer.........................Outside Front Cover Page
of Information Statement
-- Prospectus; Summary of
Information Statement
--Prospectus; Rights of
Dissenting Shareholders;
The Merger
<PAGE>
________________________
* Answer is negative or item is not applicable.
<PAGE>
[DBSC LETTERHEAD]
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
September 19, 1996
To the Shareholders of Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
On December 21, 1995, EchoStar Communications Corporation, a Nevada
corporation ("EchoStar"), and Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a
Delaware corporation ("DBSC"), entered into a Plan and Agreement of Merger,
approved by the Board of Directors of each company and by the written consent
of DBSC shareholders ("DBSC Shareholders") owning a majority of the voting
securities of DBSC, pursuant to which DBSC will be merged with Direct
Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado corporation and a subsidiary
of EchoStar ("MergerCo"), resulting in DBSC becoming a wholly owned
subsidiary of EchoStar (the "Merger"). This Information Statement --
Prospectus relates to your right to elect to receive, at your option, either
cash or shares of Class A Common Stock of EchoStar in exchange for your
shares of Common Stock of DBSC. We are not asking you for a proxy and you are
requested not to send us a proxy.
As a result of the Merger, each share of Common Stock of DBSC will be
converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, at the election of
each DBSC Shareholder, either $7.99 in cash (the "Cash Value") or .67417 shares
of Class A Common Stock of EchoStar ("EchoStar Common Stock"), subject to
certain limitations and adjustments as set forth in the Plan and Agreement of
Merger and as set forth in the enclosed Information Statement -- Prospectus. To
elect to receive either the Cash Value or the EchoStar Common Stock, each DBSC
Shareholder should complete the enclosed Election Form and return it by 5:00p.m.
on or before _________, 1996. DBSC Shareholders electing to receive shares of
Class A Common Stock of EchoStar in connection with the Merger will not be
entitled to sell such shares for a period of 90 days following the effective
date of the Merger. Since the date that DBSC executed the Plan and Agreement of
Merger described in the Information Statement -- Prospectus, the price of
EchoStar's Class A Common Stock has increased from $19.12 per share to $28.50
per share as of September 13, 1996, which represents the closing price of a
share of Class A Common Stock of EchoStar as reported on the Nasdaq's National
Market System.
Management of EchoStar and DBSC believe that the proposed Merger will
provide shareholders of DBSC with the opportunity to participate in the
enhanced growth and other opportunities of EchoStar resulting from the
Merger. EchoStar launched its first direct broadcast satellite ("DBS"),
EchoStar I, in December 1995 and, during March 1996, began broadcasting its
DISH Network-SM- programming to the entire continental United States. On
September 10, 1996, EchoStar launched its second DBS, EchoStar II, and had
approximately 155,000 subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- programming.
The Plan and Agreement of Merger is included as Annex I to the enclosed
Information Statement -- Prospectus. The Information Statement -- Prospectus
describes the Merger in detail and contains important information about DBSC
and EchoStar including financial statements and other financial information.
The Information Statement -- Prospectus also describes each shareholder's
right to seek appraisal of his shares of DBSC Common Stock as a result of the
Merger. The Board of Directors believes that the Merger is in the best
interest of DBSC Shareholders.
Sincerely,
HARLEY W. RADIN
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
<PAGE>
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY
OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR
THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE
SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE
UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF
ANY SUCH STATE.
<PAGE>
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED SEPTEMBER 19, 1996
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
PROSPECTUS
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
INFORMATION STATEMENT
This Information Statement -- Prospectus is being furnished to
shareholders of Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Delaware
corporation ("DBSC"), in connection with the proposed merger (the "Merger")
of DBSC with Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado
corporation ("MergerCo"), and a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar
Communications Corporation, a Nevada Corporation ("EchoStar"). MergerCo is a
newly formed corporation that was organized by EchoStar for purposes of the
Merger. On the effective date of the Merger, each share of Common Stock of
DBSC, $0.01 par value ("DBSC Common Stock"), other than shares held by
EchoStar and those for which Appraisal Rights have been perfected, as set
forth below, will be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive,
at the election of each shareholder of DBSC (together, "DBSC Shareholders"),
either $7.99 in cash (the "Cash Value") or .67417 shares of Class A Common
Stock, $0.01 par value, of EchoStar ("EchoStar Common Stock") (collectively,
the "Merger Consideration"), subject to the conditions set forth in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus and in the accompanying Election Form
(the "Offer"). DBSC Shareholders who reject the Offer and follow certain
procedures may have the value of their shares of DBSC Common Stock appraised
pursuant to Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL"), and thereby
receive the cash value of their shares of DBSC Common Stock as determined by
the Delaware Court of Chancery ("Appraisal Rights"). DBSC Shareholders not
returning the Election Form will be deemed to have accepted the Offer and
shall receive the Merger Consideration in the form of EchoStar Common Stock.
See "Rights of Dissenting Shareholders."
The Merger Consideration is subject to certain limitations and adjustments,
a detailed discussion of which is set forth in the Plan and Agreement of Merger
set forth as Annex I to this Information Statement -- Prospectus and described
below under "The Merger -- Description of the Merger Agreement -- Adjustments to
Merger Consideration" (the "Merger Agreement"). No fractional shares of EchoStar
Common Stock will be issued in the Merger and cash will be paid to each DBSC
Shareholder in lieu of any fractional shares in an amount equal to such
fractional interest multiplied by the value of a share of EchoStar Common Stock
at the Effective Time (as defined herein). See "Rights of Dissenting
Shareholders." Except for: (i) cash payments in lieu of fractional shares;
(ii) DBSC Shareholders who make elections to receive all or part of their Merger
Consideration in cash; or (iii) DBSC Shareholders who reject the Offer and elect
to exercise their Appraisal Rights (collectively, "Cash Elections"), the Merger
Consideration will be paid in EchoStar Common Stock. See "The Merger --
Description of the Merger Agreement." Based upon the best information available,
the final per share Merger Consideration offered for each share of DBSC Common
Stock exchanged in the Merger will be either $7.99 cash or .67417 shares of
EchoStar Common Stock, subject to certain limitations and adjustments as set
forth in the Plan and Agreement of Merger, valued at approximately $19.21 based
on the market closing price of the EchoStar Common Stock of $28.50 on
September 13, 1996. If the final per share Merger Consideration materially
differs from this estimate, this Information Statement -- Prospectus will be
recirculated and DBSC Shareholders will be provided with an adequate period to
consider alternatives, including Appraisal Rights.
The Merger and related transactions described herein are complex
transactions. The above matters are discussed in detail in this Information
Statement -- Prospectus. DBSC Shareholders are urged to carefully read and
consider this Information Statement -- Prospectus in its entirety.
EchoStar has filed a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the
"Registration Statement") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act"), covering 658,000 shares of EchoStar Common Stock that may
be issued in connection with the Merger. This Information Statement --
Prospectus constitutes the Prospectus of EchoStar under the Securities Act in
connection with the offer and proposed sale of EchoStar Common Stock pursuant
to the Merger, and the Information Statement of DBSC. The financial
statements and other information contained herein with respect to DBSC have
been provided by DBSC, and all other information has been provided by
EchoStar. This Information Statement --Prospectus does not cover resales of
EchoStar Common Stock that may be issued in the Merger, and no person is
authorized to use this Information Statement --Prospectus in connection with
any such resale.
EchoStar Common Stock is presently quoted on the Nasdaq National Market
under the symbol "DISH". The EchoStar Common Stock that may be issued in
connection with the Merger will be designated for inclusion for trading on
the Nasdaq National Market upon official notice of issuance. DBSC
Shareholders electing to receive shares of EchoStar Common Stock in
connection with the Merger will not be entitled to sell such shares for a
period of 90 days following the effective date of the Merger. See "The Merger
- -- Description of the Merger Agreement -- Restrictions on Resale."
The DBSC Common Stock is not publicly traded and no other ready market
exists for valuation purposes.
<PAGE>
WE ARE NOT ASKING YOU FOR A PROXY AND YOU ARE REQUESTED NOT TO SEND US A
PROXY.
DBSC Shareholders should carefully consider this Information Statement
- --Prospectus in its entirety, particularly the factors discussed under the
heading "Risk Factors."
___________
THE SHARES OF ECHOSTAR COMMON STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED IN THE MERGER HAVE
NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE
SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS
INFORMATION STATEMENT -- PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
___________
The date of this Information Statement -- Prospectus is ______________, 1996.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
----
AVAILABLE INFORMATION .................................... 3
SUMMARY .................................................. 3
THE PARTIES .............................................. 3
SUMMARY OF RISK FACTORS .................................. 4
THE EXCHANGE AND MERGER .................................. 6
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA .................................. 11
THE ECHOSTAR ORGANIZATION ................................ 14
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA ............................... 15
RISK FACTORS ............................................. 16
RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS ........................ 29
THE MERGER ............................................... 31
COMPARISON OF SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS ......................... 39
PRICE RANGE OF ECHOSTAR CLASS A COMMON STOCK ............. 42
DIVIDEND POLICY .......................................... 42
CAPITALIZATION ........................................... 43
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION ...................... 45
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS .............................................. 45
BUSINESS ................................................. 60
MANAGEMENT ............................................... 91
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS............ 96
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL
OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.................................... 98
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK.............................. 100
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS....................... 103
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION................. 105
BUSINESS.................................................. 105
MANAGEMENT................................................ 107
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS............ 108
2
<PAGE>
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
AND MANAGEMENT........................................... 108
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK.............................. 109
LEGAL MATTERS............................................. 109
EXPERTS................................................... 110
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS............................. F(1)
ANNEX I -- PLAN AND AGREEMENT OF MERGER.................. A(1)
ANNEX II -- MERGER TRIGGER AGREEMENT..................... B(1)
ANNEX III -- DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
SECTION 262 ............................................ C(1)
3
<PAGE>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
EchoStar is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and, in accordance therewith, files
reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"Commission"). Such reports and other information may be inspected and copied at
the public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Judiciary Plaza, Washington D.C. 20549-1004, and at the following
Regional Offices of the Commission: Chicago Regional Office, Northwestern Atrium
Center, 500 West Madison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60661 and the New York
Regional Office, 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048. Copies of such
materials may also be obtained by mail from the Public Reference Section of the
Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549-1004 at prescribed
rates.
DBSC is not required to file any reports or other information with the
Commission under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.
This Information Statement -- Prospectus, which constitutes a part of the
Registration Statement filed by Echostar with the Commission under the
Securities Act, omits certain information contained in the Registration
Statement, and reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement and to the
exhibits relating thereto for further information with respect to EchoStar and
the EchoStar Common Stock offered hereby. Statements contained herein concerning
provisions of any document set forth all material elements of the documents, are
not necessarily complete, and each statement is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the copy of such document included herewith or filed with the
Commission.
No person is authorized to give any information or to make any
representations with respect to the matters described in this Information
Statement -- Prospectus other than those contained herein. Any information or
representations with respect to such matters not contained herein must not be
relied upon as having been authorized by EchoStar or DBSC. This Information
Statement -- Prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or a
solicitation of an offer to buy any securities other than the registered
securities in any jurisdiction. Neither the delivery of this Information
Statement -- Prospectus nor any sale made hereunder shall, under any
circumstances, create any implication that there has been no change in the
affairs of EchoStar or DBSC since the date hereof or that the information in
this Information Statement --Prospectus is correct as of any time subsequent
to the date hereof.
SUMMARY
The following is a summary of all material elements of certain information
contained in this Information Statement -- Prospectus. This summary is not
intended to be complete and is qualified in all respects by reference to the
detailed information appearing elsewhere in this Information Statement --
Prospectus and the Annexes hereto. All DBSC Shareholders are urged to review
carefully the entire Information Statement -- Prospectus and the Annexes. Unless
otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms shall have the meaning ascribed to
them in the Plan and Agreement of Merger set forth as Annex I to this
Information Statement -- Prospectus.
THE PARTIES
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
EchoStar, which successfully launched its first DBS, EchoStar I, in
December 1995, is one of only two companies with United States licensed
operational capacity sufficient to provide comprehensive nationwide DBS
programming service in 1996. Currently, EchoStar offers over 100 channels of
high quality digital video and audio programming.
4
<PAGE>
On September 10, 1996, EchoStar launched its second DBS, EchoStar II,
which, once operational, will allow EchoStar's DBS service (the "DISH
Network-SM-") to expand to approximately 200 high quality digital video and
audio channels . There can be no assurance that the launch of EchoStar II
will prove completely successful until approximately 60 days after its
initial launch on September 10, 1996. On March 1, 1996, EchoStar received
short-term authority (the "STA") from the Federal Communications Commission
("FCC") to operate approximately 30 additional video channels on EchoStar I
through August 31, 1996. This STA was recently extended until September 30,
1996. As of September 10, 1996, EchoStar had approximately 155,000
subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- programming. See "Risk Factors -- Risk of
Satellite Defect, Loss or Reduced Performance." Absent significant additional
capital, EchoStar will be unable to retain all of its assigned frequencies
and orbital slots.
EchoStar was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada in
April 1995 for purposes of facilitating the consummation of a public offering of
its Class A Common Stock, which occurred in June 1995. The principal executive
offices of EchoStar are located at 90 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado
80112, and its telephone number is (303) 799-8222. As used in this Information
Statement -- Prospectus, unless otherwise stated or the context otherwise
requires, "EchoStar" refers to EchoStar Communications Corporation and its
direct and indirect subsidiaries.
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION, A DELAWARE CORPORATION
DBSC, organized under Delaware law in 1981, has received authority from the
Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") to build two direct broadcast
satellites to transmit television and other signals throughout the continental
United States, Alaska and Hawaii. The FCC has awarded DBSC specific orbital
slot assignments with respect to 11 DBS frequencies located at 61.5DEG. WL and
11 DBS frequencies located at 175DEG. WL. DBSC has filed an application with
the FCC and intends to seek permission to transmit programming to parts of
Western Europe, North Africa and Asia, as well as Central and South America,
from its satellites. Subject to receipt of requisite approval and consent from
relevant authorities, the FCC has agreed to the provision of international or
foreign-domestic DBS service by DBSC. DBSC has entered into, and made a series
of progress payments under, a contract with Lockheed Martin Corporation
("Lockheed Martin") for the construction of two direct broadcast satellites (the
"DBSC Satellite Contract"), the first of which is anticipated to be completed
and launched in 1997, assuming DBSC has adequate financial resources to complete
construction. EchoStar currently owns approximately 40% of the outstanding
stock of DBSC. The principal executive offices of DBSC are located at 4401-A
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 400, Washington, D.C. 20008, and its telephone
number is (202) 966-5800.
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION, A COLORADO CORPORATION
MergerCo is a Colorado corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of
EchoStar. MergerCo was recently formed to effect the Merger. See "The Merger."
RESTRICTIONS ON RESALE
Shares of EchoStar Common Stock received by DBSC Shareholders in connection
with the Merger will not be eligible for resale, transfer or disposal until
90 days after the effective date of the Merger. Certificates representing such
shares will bear a restrictive legend setting forth the restrictions prohibiting
such sale, transfer or disposal during the 90 day period. In the event the
Merger is determined to be a taxable transaction to DBSC Shareholders, the
90 day resale restriction will lapse with respect to 50% of the shares of
EchoStar's Common Stock received by DBSC shareholders.
SUMMARY OF RISK FACTORS
5
<PAGE>
The deployment and operation of the EchoStar DBS System is highly complex
and involves substantial risks. These risks include competition from DBS and
other satellite system operators and cable television, EchoStar's ability to
integrate advanced and unproven technologies, the potential loss or damage to
EchoStar's satellites during launch or while in orbit, the potential for
impaired commercial operation resulting from incorrect orbital placement, effect
on cash flow resulting from subscriber acquisition costs, EchoStar's ability to
obtain insurance on favorable terms, the potential for delay and cost overruns
and effects of government regulation on the communications industry generally.
The inability of EchoStar to successfully deploy the EchoStar DBS System would
adversely affect EchoStar's operations. Risks related to EchoStar include the
fact that EchoStar is highly leveraged. These and certain other risks are
described in more detail under "Risk Factors" commencing on page 20.
6
<PAGE>
THE EXCHANGE AND MERGER
APPROVAL OF THE MERGER
The Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated December 21, 1995, among EchoStar,
MergerCo and DBSC (the "Merger Agreement"), was approved by written consent of
DBSC's largest Shareholders (Harley W. Radin, DBS Industries, Inc. ("DBSI") and
EchoStar) owning in excess of 82% of the issued and outstanding DBSC Common
Stock on December 21, 1995. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, among other
things, DBSC will be merged with MergerCo, resulting in DBSC becoming a wholly
owned subsidiary of EchoStar.
THE OFFER
The Merger Agreement provides that each issued and outstanding share of
DBSC Common Stock, other than shares held by EchoStar and those for which
Appraisal Rights have been perfected, will be converted into and exchanged for
either $7.99 in cash or .67417 shares of EchoStar Common Stock subject to
certain limitations and adjustments as set forth in the Merger Agreement
attached as Annex I to this Information Statement -- Prospectus and as described
below under "The Merger -- Description of the Merger Agreement." To elect to
receive either the Cash Value or the EchoStar Common Stock, each DBSC
Shareholder should complete the Election Form accompanying this Information
Statement -- Prospectus and return it by 5:00 p.m. on , 1996, to
American Securities Transfer, Inc. (the "Exchange Agent"). The mailing address
of the Exchange Agent is 1825 Lawrence Street, Suite 444, Denver, Colorado
80202. No fractional shares will be issued in connection with the Merger, and
each DBSC Shareholder electing to receive EchoStar Common Stock will receive
cash in lieu of any fractional share in an amount equal to such fractional
interest multiplied by the value of a share of EchoStar Common Stock as of the
effective time of the Merger (the "Effective Time").
Since the date that DBSC executed the Merger Agreement, the price of each
share of EchoStar Common Stock has increased from $19.12 per share to $28.50
per share as of September 13, 1996, which represents the closing price of a
share of EchoStar Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market System.
RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS
Under the DGCL, DBSC Shareholders who comply with the applicable procedures
for dissenting from the Merger are entitled to Appraisal Rights. For more
information regarding such Appraisal Rights, see "Rights of Dissenting
Shareholders."
BACKGROUND OF THE MERGER
On November 15, 1994, EchoStar and DBSC entered into a Stock Purchase
Agreement pursuant to which EchoStar purchased 583,250 shares of DBSC Common
Stock in consideration for: (i) the payment by EchoStar to DBSC of
$2,960,000; (ii) the dismissal by EchoStar with prejudice of a lawsuit brought
by EchoStar against DBSC; and (iii) the cancellation and termination by EchoStar
of: (x) all of the issued and outstanding convertible notes of DBSC held by
EchoStar (the "DBSC Notes"); (y) all accounts receivable of DBSC owned by
EchoStar; and (z) all other debts of DBSC owned by EchoStar. DBSC also granted
EchoStar the right and option, under certain circumstances and subject to
certain conditions, to purchase additional shares of DBSC Common Stock thereby
providing EchoStar with certain rights even if the Merger had not occurred (the
"Option Shares"). The issuance of the Option Shares was conditioned upon the
receipt from the FCC of any required approvals for issuance of the Option
Shares. Under the terms of the Stock Purchase Agreement, each of DBSC and
EchoStar were given the right to require the execution by the parties of the
Merger Agreement, subject to certain conditions, including approval of the
Merger by the FCC ("FCC Approval") and by the DBSC Shareholders. The FCC
approved the Merger on August 30, 1996. Harley W. Radin, Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive
7
<PAGE>
Officer of DBSC, personally executed the Stock Purchase Agreement with
respect to certain covenants regarding the non-transferability of his DBSC
Common Stock prior to consummation of the Merger. See "The Merger --
Background and Reasons for the Merger."
Contemporaneously with execution of the Merger Agreement, DBSC, EchoStar
and MergerCo entered into a Merger Trigger Agreement (the "Merger Trigger
Agreement") pursuant to which the parties agreed to, among other things, execute
and consummate the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement and to
enter into a Note Purchase Agreement and Security Agreement (together, the "Loan
Agreements"), pursuant to which EchoStar agreed to purchase from DBSC
$16.0 million in principal amount of promissory notes of DBSC and, in EchoStar's
sole and absolute discretion, up to an additional $134.0 million principal
amount of promissory notes, the proceeds from which are to be used by DBSC to
make certain payments to Lockheed Martin under the DBSC Satellite Contract and
to make deposits towards launch reservations. As of the date of this
Information Statement -- Prospectus, EchoStar has loaned DBSC $36.0 million
pursuant to the Loan Agreements. See "The Merger -- The Merger Trigger
Agreement".
In the event the Merger is not consummated for any reason, the parties also
agreed to structure a transaction or series of transactions that would have the
effect of providing to the parties, as nearly as is possible, the benefits which
would have accrued to the parties had the Merger been consummated, as more
particularly described in this Information Statement -- Prospectus under "The
Merger -- The Merger Trigger Agreement" (the "Substitute DBSC Transaction"). The
Merger Trigger Agreement also sets forth the acknowledgement of the parties that
certain DBSC Shareholders owning a majority of the issued and outstanding shares
of DBSC Common Stock had, by written consent, approved the Merger. A copy of
the Merger Trigger Agreement is attached hereto as Annex II.
REASONS FOR THE MERGER
The DBSC Board believes that the Merger is in the best interests of DBSC
and is fair to and in the best interests of DBSC Shareholders. The Merger will
enable DBSC Shareholders to participate in the DBS industry as owners of
EchoStar, which recently began broadcasting its DISH Network-SM- programming to
the entire continental United States. See "The Merger -- Background and Reasons
for the Merger" and "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business."
DBSC has been an applicant for a full DBS license since 1982. As a
development stage company with no operations, DBSC has found it extremely
difficult to attract necessary financing to continuously comply with the
requirements imposed by the FCC to maintain its DBS authorizations ("Due
Diligence Requirements"), as well as to satisfy its other obligations. By late
summer of 1994, the construction of DBSC's satellite by Lockheed Martin was not
sufficiently advanced to permit DBSC to begin operation of its first satellite
by August 1995, and substantial working capital was needed to accelerate the
construction phase of the DBSC Satellite Contract. In addition, the specific
orbital locations assigned by the FCC to DBSC were not those widely considered
among the most desirable, making it even more difficult for DBSC to attract
partners, investors or programmers.
The launch of DBS service in mid-1994 by DirecTV, Inc., a subsidiary of
Hughes Communications, Inc. ("DirecTV"), and United States Satellite
Broadcasting, Inc. ("USSB"), and the prospect of a further competitive entry by
EchoStar in late 1995, raised the possibility that if DBSC were not able to
accelerate progress on its own DBS system, it would be unable to attract
necessary working capital to continue progress payments under the DBSC Satellite
Contract.
The Merger with EchoStar provides DBSC with the financial resources to
build and launch its DBS satellites, thereby providing DBSC Shareholders with
the opportunity to participate in the growth and other opportunities resulting
from the DBS system presently under construction by DBSC as well as EchoStar's
DBS system (together, the "EchoStar DBS System").
8
<PAGE>
DESCRIPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The Merger Agreement provides that, at the Effective Time, DBSC will be
merged with MergerCo, which shall be the surviving corporation. The Effective
Time of the Merger is expected to be as soon as practicable after the effective
date of the Registration Statement, subject to satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions precedent to the Merger as set forth in the Merger Agreement and
Merger Trigger Agreement. See "The Merger -- Effective Time." At the Effective
Time of the Merger, the separate corporate existence of DBSC will cease. DBSC
Shareholders accepting the Offer, other than EchoStar, will receive or become
entitled to receive either $7.99 in cash or .67417 shares of EchoStar Common
Stock for each share of DBSC Common Stock owned as of the Effective Time of the
Merger, payable at the election of each DBSC Shareholder and subject to certain
limitations and adjustments. The Merger Agreement provides that the Cash Value
of the Merger Consideration cannot exceed 50%. A detailed discussion of these
limitations and adjustments is described below under "The Merger -- Description
of the Merger -- Adjustments to Merger Consideration". DBSC Shareholders not
returning the Election Form will be deemed to have accepted the Offer and will
receive shares of EchoStar Common Stock for their shares of DBSC Common Stock.
DBSC Shareholders receiving shares of EchoStar Common Stock in connection with
the Merger will not be entitled to sell such shares for a period of 90 days
following the effective date of the Merger. See "The Merger -- Description of
the Merger Agreement -- Restrictions on Resale." DBSC Shareholders who reject
this Offer may have the value of their shares of DBSC Common Stock appraised
pursuant to the DGCL. See "Rights of Dissenting Shareholders."
The Merger Consideration may be decreased according to a specific formula
set forth in the Merger Agreement to reflect, among other things described in
"The Merger -- Description of the Merger" below, certain liabilities of DBSC not
disclosed in the Merger Agreement, the exact amount of which may not be
precisely determined until the Effective Time of the Merger. Based upon the
best information available, the final per share Merger Consideration offered for
each share of DBSC Common Stock exchanged in the Merger will be either $7.99 in
cash or .67417 shares of EchoStar Common Stock, subject to certain limitations
and adjustments as set forth in the Plan and Agreement of Merger, valued at
approximately $19.21 based on the market closing price of the EchoStar Common
Stock of $28.50 on September 13, 1996. If the final per share Merger
Consideration materially differs from this estimate, this Information
Statement -- Prospectus will be recirculated and DBSC Shareholders will be
provided with an adequate period to consider alternatives, including Appraisal
Rights.
The Merger Agreement contains representations and warranties made by DBSC
to EchoStar and MergerCo (together, the "EchoStar Companies"), and
representations and warranties made by the EchoStar Companies to DBSC, which
are described in "The Merger -- Representations and Warranties." Such
representations and warranties are made as of December 21, 1995, when the
Merger Agreement was signed, and as of the Effective Time of the Merger.
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER
Harley W. Radin, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
DBSC, owns approximately 18.4% of the issued and outstanding shares of DBSC
Common Stock and has previously voted his DBSC Common Shares to approve the
Merger. Mr. Radin may continue in some capacity, to be determined, with
MergerCo after consummation of the Merger. In addition, DBSI which owes
EchoStar $4.0 million plus accrued interest as of August 31, 1996, owns 24.8% of
DBSC Common Stock. The $4.0 million owed to EchoStar is secured by 125,000
shares of DBSC common stock, among other collateral. Fred W. Thompson, a
director of DBSC, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of DBSI, as well
as a significant shareholder of DBSI. Daniel E. Moore, Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET"), owns
2,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock and SSET owns 912,717 shares of EchoStar
Class A
9
<PAGE>
Common Stock. In addition, SSET currently owes EchoStar approximately $5.2
million plus accrued interest related to its convertible non-recourse
debentures. These debentures are secured by the EchoStar Class A Common
Stock owned by SSET. Charles W. Ergen, Chairman of EchoStar, also serves on
the Board of Directors of SSET. See "Risk Factors --Factors Concerning the
Merger -- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger."
REGULATORY APPROVALS
Under the rules and regulations of the FCC, the Merger could not be
consummated until FCC Approval had been obtained. FCC Approval of the Merger
was obtained on August 30, 1996. See "The Merger -- Federal Communications
Commission Approval."
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
The Merger will be accounted for under the purchase method for accounting
and financial reporting purposes. See "The Merger -- Accounting Treatment."
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
It is intended that the Merger constitute a "reorganization" within the
meaning of Sections 368(a)(1)(A) and 368(a)(2)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). Sullivan & Worcester LLP, counsel to DBSC,
has advised DBSC that, based in part on certain representations made by EchoStar
and by DBSC (assuming DBSC's largest shareholders elect to receive EchoStar
Common Stock rather than cash, and limit their resales of that stock), under
current law and assuming that: (i) the Merger will be consummated as described
in the Merger Agreement; and (ii) the representations made by EchoStar remain
true as of the date of consummation of the Merger, no gain or loss will be
recognized for Federal income tax purposes by any DBSC Shareholder upon the
receipt of EchoStar Common Stock exchanged for DBSC Common Stock. EchoStar
knows of no facts which would make the representations of EchoStar untrue as of
the date of this Information Statement -- Prospectus. Under certain
circumstances and in accordance with the Merger Agreement, EchoStar is entitled
to take certain actions which may modify the representations made by EchoStar to
Sullivan & Worcester LLP regarding treatment of the Merger as a non-taxable
event. Even if EchoStar takes action which changes the tax result of the
Merger, the Merger will be consummated, and EchoStar will not incur liability
for the modified tax consequence. In any event, the Federal income tax
treatment of a DBSC Shareholder who receives cash in the Merger in exchange for
part or all of his DBSC Common Stock, including cash received in lieu of
fractional shares, will depend upon such DBSC Stockholder's particular
circumstances. See "The Merger -- Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences."
COMPARISON OF SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS
Upon consummation of the Merger , DBSC Shareholders who elect to receive shares
of EchoStar Common Stock will become owners of EchoStar, a Nevada corporation
formed in April 1995. For a comparison of Nevada and Delaware laws and charter
and bylaw provisions of EchoStar and DBSC governing the rights of Delaware and
Nevada shareholders, see "Comparison of Shareholder Rights."
MECHANICS OF EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES
Each DBSC Shareholder shall make an election whether to receive the Cash
Value or shares of EchoStar Common Stock (the "Share Value"), on the "Election
By DBSC Shareholder" form delivered herewith (the "Election Form"). The
Election Form must be returned to the Exchange Agent at its principal offices
located at 1825 Lawrence Street, Suite 444, Denver, Colorado 80202 by 5:00 p.m.
on or before ______________, 1996. As soon as practicable after the
Effective Time of the Merger, the Exchange Agent will mail to DBSC Shareholders
instructions for surrendering their stock certificates in exchange for the
Merger Consideration. Except for cash
10
<PAGE>
payments in lieu of fractional shares and to the extent DBSC Shareholders
make Cash Elections, the Merger Consideration will be paid in shares of
EchoStar Common Stock.
Upon surrender of certificates, EchoStar will promptly cause to be paid to
the persons entitled thereto the Merger Consideration. No interest will be paid
or will accrue on any amount payable upon the surrender of any certificate.
After the Effective Time of the Merger, certificates which previously
represented issued and outstanding shares of DBSC Common Stock will represent
solely the right to receive the Merger Consideration multiplied by the number of
shares of DBSC Common Stock previously represented thereby.
MECHANICS OF PERFECTING APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Any DBSC Shareholder who dissents from the Merger and who follows certain
procedures is entitled to receive in cash the "fair value" of their DBSC Common
Stock. Within 10 days after the Merger is effected, EchoStar will send notice to
each DBSC Shareholder who has the right of appraisal. Within 20 days of the date
of the mailing of such notice, a dissenting DBSC Shareholder must send a written
demand for appraisal to Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado
corporation, 90 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado 80112 in order to
perfect these appraisal rights under Delaware law.
Within 120 days after the Effective Time of the Merger, a dissenting DBSC
Shareholder who has complied with Delaware law may file a petition in the
Delaware Court of Chancery demanding a determination of the fair value of his
DBSC Common Stock. After determining which DBSC Shareholders have complied with
Delaware law regarding appraisal rights, the court will establish a fair value
of the DBSC Common Stock and direct payment to entitled DBSC Shareholders. See
"Rights of Dissenting Shareholders."
11
<PAGE>
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected financial data as of and for each of the five years
in the period ended December 31, 1995 are derived from the financial statements
of EchoStar, and the predecessor entities of EchoStar, audited by Arthur
Andersen LLP, independent public accountants. The following selected financial
data for the six months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996 are derived from the
unaudited financial statements of EchoStar and, in the opinion of EchoStar,
include all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of such information.
Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 1996 are not necessarily
indicative of the results that may be achieved for the year ended December 31,
1996. The data set forth in this table should be read in conjunction with
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," EchoStar's Combined and Consolidated Financial Statements and the
Notes thereto and the other financial information included elsewhere in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus.
<TABLE>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
----------------------- ----------------
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1995 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data, ratios
and satellite receivers sold)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Statement of Income Data:
Revenue:
DTH products
and technical
services:
Domestic ............. $103,510 $122,433 $152,818 $111,815 $ 87,274 $39,924 $74,904
International......... 31,605 35,040 53,493 60,938 59,578 31,218 22,295
Programming......... 3,890 6,436 10,770 14,540 15,096 7,688 12,689
Loan origination and
participation income... 608 1,179 3,860 3,690 1,942 835 5,103
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
Total revenue......... 139,613 165,088 220,941 190,983 163,890 79,665 114,991
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
Expenses:
DTH products and
technical services... 102,810 120,826 161,447 133,635 120,178 56,816 90,278
Programming........... 3,549 6,225 9,378 11,670 13,610 6,824 7,827
Selling, general and
administrative....... 26,736 25,708 30,235 30,219 35,015 15,186 29,816
Depreciation and
amortization......... 1,112 1,043 1,677 2,243 3,058 769 9,756
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
----------------------- ----------------
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1995 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data, ratios
and satellite receivers sold)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total expenses.......134,207 153,802 202,737 177,767 171,861 79,595 137,677
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Operating income
(loss)................ 5,406 11,286 18,204 13,216 (7,971) 70 (22,686)
Net income (loss) (8).. $6,192 $10,833 $20,118 $ 90 $(11,486) $(4,027) $(29,775)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net income (loss)
attributable to
common shares......... $6,192 $10,833 $20,118 $ (848) $(12,691) $(4,629) $(30,377)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Weighted average
common shares
outstanding........... 32,442 35,562 33,655 40,404
------- ------- ------- -------
------- ------- ------- -------
Net loss per common
and common equivalent
share................. $(0.03) $(0.36) $(0.14) $ (0.75)
------- ------- ------- -------
------- ------- ------- -------
Ratio of earnings to
fixed charges (1)..... 4.36x 7.32x 9.63x 1.02x 0.66x 0.72x 0.03x
Pro forma (unaudited):
Pro forma net
income (2).........$ 4,468 $7,529 $12,272
Pro forma net
income per
share (2)(3)....... 0.14 0.23 0.38
Weighted average
shares
outstanding (3).... 32,221 32,221 32,221
Dividends per
share (7).......... $0.33 $0.09 $ 0.06
------- ------- -------
------- ------- -------
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA (4).............$12,818(5) $12,329 $19,881 $15,459 $(4,913) $ 839 $(12,930)
Satellite receivers
sold (in units):
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
----------------------- ----------------
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1995 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data, ratios
and satellite receivers sold)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Domestic .......... 113,000 116,000 132,000 114,000 131,000 53,000 155,000
International...... 45,000 85,000 203,000 289,000 331,000 181,000 126,000
Total ...... 158,000 201,000 335,000 403,000 462,000 234,000 281,000
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------- AT JUNE 30,
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(In thousands) (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data, ratios
and satellite receivers sold)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance Sheet Data:
Cash, cash equivalents
and marketable
investment securities....$20,359 $22,031 $27,232 $245,375(6) $137,115(6) $342,933(6)
Working capital........... 38,597 44,268 35,563 52,711 52,999 167,223
Total assets.............. 72,547 88,529 106,476 472,492 623,091 996,765
Long-term obligations
(less current portion):
1994 Notes, net...... -- -- -- 334,206 382,218 408,449
1996 Notes, net...... -- -- -- -- -- 361,742
Notes payable to
stockholder......... 234 2,274 14,725 -- -- --
Other long-term debt. 5,028 4,876 4,702 5,393 33,444 36,337
</TABLE>
14
<PAGE>
___________
(1) For purposes of the ratio of earnings to fixed charges, earnings consist
of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, plus fixed
charges. Fixed charges consist of interest incurred on all indebtedness
and rental expense under non-cancelable operating leases.
(2) EchoStar's subsidiaries operated under Subchapter S of the Code and
comparable provisions of applicable state income tax laws until December
31, 1993. The amounts shown reflect net income as if EchoStar had been
subject to corporate federal and state income taxes during such periods.
See Notes 2 and 7 of Notes to EchoStar's Combined and Consolidated
Financial Statements as of December 31, 1995 included elsewhere in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus.
(3) Earnings per share has been calculated and presented on a pro forma basis
as if the shares of EchoStar issued to reflect the December 31, 1993
reorganization were outstanding for all periods presented. See Notes 1
and 7 of EchoStar's Notes to Combined and Consolidated Financial
Statements as of December 31, 1995 included elsewhere in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus.
(4) EBITDA represents earnings before interest income, interest expense, net of
other income and expenses, income taxes, depreciation and amortization.
EBITDA is commonly used in the telecommunications industry to analyze
companies on the basis of operating performance, leverage and liquidity.
EBITDA is not intended to represent cash flows for the period, nor has
it been presented as an alternative to operating income as an indicator
of operating performance and should not be considered in isolation or as
a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. See EchoStar's Combined and
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in EchoStar's Combined and
Consolidated Financial Statements contained elsewhere in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus.
(5) Excludes $6.3 million in non-recurring charges.
(6) Includes Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities.
(7) Dividends per share have been adjusted for dividends declared to pay S
corporation stockholder tax payments and dividends which were reinvested
in EchoStar for the EchoStar DBS System.
(8) Since the December 31, 1993 corporate reorganization, EchoStar has not paid
any dividends on common stock. See Notes 1 and 7 of EchoStar's Notes to
Combined and Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 1995
included elsewhere in this Information Statement -- Prospectus.
15
<PAGE>
THE ECHOSTAR ORGANIZATION
The following chart illustrates where significant DBS assets and rights
are, or are expected to be, held:
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
NASDAQ: DISH
DIRECT BROADCASTING ECHOSTAR SATELLITE ECHOSTAR
SATELLITE ECHOSTAR BROADCASTING SPACE DISH NETWORK
CORPORATION(1) DBS CORPORATION CORPORATION CORPORATION CREDIT CORPORATION
- - EchoStar III satellite - EchoStar IV satellite ISSUER OF THE - Launch contracts for - Consumer financing of
- - 11 frequencies 61.5 - 24 frequencies SENIOR SECURED EchoStar III and EchoStar Receiver Systems
degrees WL 148 degrees WL(1) NOTES EchoStar IV
- - 11 frequencies 175
degrees WL
DISH, LTD.
ISSUER OF THE
1994 NOTES
ECHOSTAR ECHOSTAR
HOUSTON TRACKER ECHOSPHERE SATELLITE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTSAT
SYSTEMS, INC. CORPORATION CORPORATION CORPORATION CORPORATION
- - U.S. distribution - U.S. distribution of - EchoStar I Satellite - International - EchoStar II satellite(4)
of DTH products and DTH products and EchoStar - Launch contract for distribution - 10 frequencies 119
EchoStar Receiver Receiver Systems to EchoStar II of DTH products degrees WL(3)
Systems to Echosphere satellite retailers - 11 frequencies 119 - 11 frequencies
and other distributors degrees WL(2) 175 degrees WL
- - DBS research and - 10 frequencies - 1 frequency 110
development 175 degrees WL(1) degrees WL
- 1 frequency 166 degrees
WL(1)
- DBS programming contracts
- Digital broadcast center
</TABLE>
________________________
(1) Subject to FCC approvals and findings.
(2) EchoStar has also received an STA for the remaining five frequencies on
EchoStar I which has currently been extended until September 30, 1996.
There can be no assurance that the EchoStar I STA will be further
extended.
(3) DirectSat has filed an application with the FCC for an STA covering the
remaining six transponders on EchoStar II. As of the date of this
Information Statement -- Prospectus, the FCC has not ruled on
DirectSat's STA application. EchoStar believes, but can give no
assurance, that the FCC will grant the EchoStar II STA for a period of
180 days.
(4) The conditional permit for EchoStar II ("DirectSat I") is held by DirectSat
Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dish, Ltd. Consequently,
Dish, Ltd. effectively controls the DirectSat I Satellite, which is
referred to hereinafter in this Information Statement -- Prospectus as
EchoStar II.
16
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA
The following table summarizes certain unaudited selected financial
information on a pro forma and pro forma equivalent per share basis and is
derived from, should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to, the historical financial statements of EchoStar and
DBSC which are included elsewhere in this Information Statement -- Prospectus.
The information presented in this table is for informational purposes only and
is not necessarily indicative of future combined earnings or financial position
or of combined earnings or financial position that would have been reported had
the Merger been completed at the beginning of the period or as of the date for
which such unaudited pro forma information is presented.
COMPARISON OF HISTORICAL AND EQUIVALENT STOCK VALUES
ECHOSTAR AND DBSC
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
YEAR ENDED SIX MONTHS
DECEMBER 31, ENDED JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------ --------------
<S> <C> <C>
ECHOSTAR (1):
Historical net loss per common share, primary and fully diluted.... $0.36 $0.75
Pro forma combined loss from continuing operations per common
share, primary and fully diluted (2)(3)........................... 0.36 0.74
Historical book value per common share, primary and fully diluted.. 3.46 2.71
Pro forma combined book value per common share, primary and fully
diluted (2)(4).................................................... 3.70 2.96
DBSC (1):
Historical net loss per common share, primary and fully diluted.... $0.19 $0.10
Equivalent pro forma loss from continuing operations per common
share, primary and fully diluted (5).............................. 0.24 0.50
Historical book value per common share, primary and fully diluted.. 1.01 0.91
Equivalent pro forma book value per common share, primary and fully
diluted (5)....................................................... 2.49 1.99
</TABLE>
________________________
(1) EchoStar and DBSC have not paid cash dividends on common shares during the
year ended December 31, 1995, or the six months ended June 30, 1996.
(2) Pro forma book value per common share reflects the issuance of
approximately 658,000 shares of EchoStar Class A Common Stock assumed to
be issued in connection with the Merger.
(3) Pro forma combined loss from continuing operations includes a pro forma
income tax benefit of approximately $100,000 and $56,000 for DBSC for
the year ended December 31, 1995, and the six months ended June 30,
1996, respectively.
(4) Pro forma combined book value per common share was computed by adding
658,000 shares of EchoStar Class A Common Stock assumed to be issued in
connection with the Merger multiplied by the assumed stock price of
$18.54 which is the 10-day average closing price of EchoStar's Class A
Common Stock as of December 28, 1995. The average share price used in
this calculation represents the average price of EchoStar's Class A
Common Stock for the five days immediately preceding and immediately
following December 21, 1995, the date which EchoStar and DBSC entered
into a Plan and Agreement of Merger.
17
<PAGE>
(5) Equivalent pro forma data for DBSC were computed by multiplying the pro
forma combined per share data of EchoStar by the .67417 Exchange Ratio.
The equivalent pro forma per share information can be used for a
comparison with the historical per share data of DBSC.
18
<PAGE>
RISK FACTORS
THE FOLLOWING FACTORS RELATING TO ECHOSTAR AND THE MERGER SHOULD BE
CONSIDERED CAREFULLY BY DBSC SHAREHOLDERS IN MAKING AN ELECTION WITH RESPECT TO
THE MERGER CONSIDERATION.
FACTORS CONCERNING ECHOSTAR
COMPETITION FROM DBS AND OTHER SATELLITE SYSTEM OPERATORS. The pay
television provider industry is highly competitive. EchoStar faces competition
from companies offering video, audio, data, programming and entertainment
services. Many of these competitors have substantially greater financial and
marketing resources than EchoStar. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation --
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
EchoStar competes with companies offering programming through various
satellite broadcasting systems. One competitor, DirecTv, has launched three DBS
satellites. DirecTv and USSB, which owns five transponders on one of DirecTv's
satellites, currently offer approximately 200 channels of combined DBS video
programming. In September 1996, DirecTv had approximately 1.8 million
subscribers, approximately one-half of which also subscribed to USSB
programming. EchoStar's first DBS satellite, which was launched in December
1995, has the capacity to provide approximately 100 channels of video
programming. However, EchoStar's authority to provide 30 of those channels
expires on September 30, 1996 unless the FCC further extends the EchoStar I
STA (as described below), to operate the additional channels, of which there can
be no assurance. As a result, EchoStar is currently at a competitive
disadvantage to DirecTv and USSB with regard to market entry, programming and,
possibly, volume discounts for programming offerings. In addition, in the event
desirable pay-per-view or other popular programming is secured by competitors of
EchoStar on an exclusive basis, it will be unavailable to EchoStar's DISH
Network-SM-. Currently, DirecTv offers subscribers the NFL Sunday Ticket-TM- and
USSB offers Flix-TM-, both of which are available to those service providers on
an exclusive basis. There may be additional sports and other programming offered
by other pay television providers that will not be available on the DISH
Network-SM-. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business --
Competition -- DBS Industry -- Other DBS Operators."
AT&T Corporation ("AT&T") and DirecTv have an exclusive agreement for AT&T
to market and distribute DirecTv's DBS service and related equipment to AT&T's
customer base. As part of the agreement, AT&T made an initial investment of
approximately $137.5 million to acquire 2.5% of the equity of DirecTv with an
option to increase its investment to up to 30% over five years. This agreement
provides a significant base of potential customers for the DirecTv DBS system
and allows AT&T and DirecTv to offer customers a package of entertainment and
communications services. As a result, EchoStar is at a competitive disadvantage
marketing to these customers. AT&T and DirecTv also announced plans to jointly
develop new multi-media services for DirecTv under the agreement. The AT&T and
DirecTv agreement will increase the competition EchoStar encounters in the
overall market for pay television customers.
At a public auction of DBS satellite frequencies held by the FCC in January
1996 (the " FCC Auction"), MCI Communications Corporation ("MCI") entered the
winning bid of $682.5 million to acquire the permit for 28 of 32 frequencies at
the 110DEG. WL orbital slot. MCI and News Corp. ("News") have formed a joint
venture to build and operate a DBS system at the 110DEG. WL orbital location
offering television programming and business communications services. The
license will give MCI and News the capacity to offer over 200 channels of
digital video programming. MCI and News reportedly expect that building and
launching the satellites for their system will cost approximately an additional
$1 billion and that DBS services will be offered to consumers and businesses in
approximately two years. However, if MCI and News acquire satellites which have
already been constructed, service could begin sooner. MCI and News have
substantially greater resources than EchoStar and their joint venture will
increase the competition EchoStar encounters in the market for pay television
customers.
19
<PAGE>
PrimeStar Partners ("PrimeStar"), owned by a consortium of several cable
companies, including TCI, currently offers medium power Ku-band programming
service to customers using dishes which are generally three feet in diameter.
PrimeStar's earlier entry into the market, its relationship with cable
programmers and its substantial resources provide PrimeStar with certain
competitive advantages. PrimeStar currently has approximately 1.4 million
subscribers and is expected to offer medium power programming services to
customers using smaller dishes (approximately two feet in diameter) upon the
successful launch of a GE American Communications Inc. ("GE Americom") satellite
later this year. TCI, which is the largest cable television company in the
United States, owns two satellites that will be ready for launch in 1996. Tempo
has a DBS construction permit for 11 frequencies at each of 119DEG. WL and
166DEG. WL. PrimeStar has the right to offer DBS programming services from
these satellites. If PrimeStar does not exercise its right, it is expected that
TCI will use these satellites to directly enter the DBS programming business,
and may launch satellites capable of providing service to the continental United
States during 1996. EchoStar is at a competitive disadvantage to PrimeStar with
regard to market entry, programming and, possibly, volume discounts for
programming offerings, particularly if PrimeStar aggregates its DBS and cable
affiliates' customers for volume discounts.
During March 1996, Tee-Comm Electronics, Inc. ("Tee-Comm"), a Canadian
company, through an affiliate, began offering digital video and audio DTH
programming in the United States on a limited basis, and intends to expand to
120 channels later this year, and 200 channels by the end of 1997. The medium
power Ku-band satellite on which Tee-Comm is leasing transponders requires that
customers use dishes approximately 24 to 36 inches in diameter. See "EchoStar
Communications Corporation -- Business -- Competition -- DBS Industry --
Other DBS Operators."
Certain of EchoStar's DBS competitors subsidize the price of their DBS
receiver systems to increase subscriber penetration. Beginning in June 1996,
EchoStar began marketing a special promotion in a limited number of markets
pursuant to which consumers were able to purchase a discounted EchoStar
Receiver System under the condition the consumer commits to subscribe and prepay
for DISH Network-SM- programming service for a minimum of one year. Under this
promotion the consumer is able to purchase the discounted EchoStar Receiver
System and prepay the annual programming package for as low as $499 ($199 for
the EchoStar Receiver System and $300 for the annual DISH Network-SM-
programming package) (the "$199 Promotion"). The primary purposes of the
promotion were to expand retail distribution, build awareness of the DISH
Network-SM- brand and rapidly build a subscriber base. Due to positive
retailer and consumer results, among other factors, effective August 1, 1996,
EchoStar began a nationwide rollout of the promotion. While this promotion
will significantly increase EchoStar's investment in its subscriber base,
EchoStar believes that the increase in subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- and
the corresponding increase in DBS programming revenue in future periods,
resulting from this promotion, will be more than sufficient to recover the
investment in subscriber acquisition costs . See "-- Possible Delisting of
EchoStar Common Stock from NASDAQ."
In late August 1996, DirecTv announced a promotion similar to EchoStar's
$199 Promotion, whereby a consumer is able to purchase an entry level DirecTv
compatible satellite system with the prepayment of an annual basic programming
package for approximately $559. The net cost of the satellite system, exclusive
of programming, is approximately $199 after the consumer receives a $200 mail-in
rebate from DirecTv.
There are a number of additional methods by which programming can be
delivered, including low power C-band satellite services, Ka-band, Ku-band and
high power extended Ku-band satellite services, wireless cable and fiber optic
cable and digital compression over existing telephone lines. Certain wireless
cable companies may become more competitive as a result of recently announced
affiliations with telephone companies. These developments, among others, will
provide additional competition to EchoStar. See "EchoStar Communications
Corporation -- Business -- Competition."
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The FCC has indicated that it intends to apply to the International
Telecommunication Union ("ITU"), which allocates spectrum worldwide, for the
allocation to the United States of additional orbital locations from which DBS
service could be provided to the entire continental United States. Further,
Canada, Mexico and other countries hold the rights to DBS orbital slots which
are capable of providing service to the United States. If the FCC moves forward
with this initiative, or if other countries authorize DBS providers to utilize
their orbital slots to serve the United States and the FCC authorizes such
service to be received in the United States (which is likely to occur),
additional competition could be created, and EchoStar's frequencies could become
less valuable. TeleQuest, Inc., a joint venture including NYNEX and Bell
Atlantic has applied to the FCC for authority to provide DBS service to the
United States from a Canadian DBS orbital location at 91DEG. WL. TCI has made a
similar application to the FCC to provide DBS service to the United States from
the Canadian 82DEG. WL orbital location. It is expected that Telesat Canada
("Telesat") will be assigned these two Canadian orbital slots. Both locations
are capable of providing DBS service to the entire continental United States.
TCI has completed construction of two DBS satellites which it intends to use to
provide DBS service to the United States from the 82DEG. WL orbital slot. One
of the satellites is expected to be launched in November 1996 and the other is
expected to be launched early next year. The FCC dismissed the TCI and
TeleQuest applications without prejudice. The FCC ruled that the applications
were premature because the Canadian regulatory authorities have not yet assigned
Telesat the orbital locations from which TCI and TeleQuest have requested the
right to broadcast. The FCC stated that TCI and TeleQuest could refile if and
when the Canadian regulatory authorities give clear direction that the 82DEG.
WL and 91DEG. WL orbital locations will be allocated to Telesat for use in the
TCI and TeleQuest ventures. The FCC noted that the Executive Branch, including
the Office of the United States Trade Representative and the United States
Department of Justice, have raised concerns which any renewal application would
need to address. TCI and TeleQuest have both asked that the FCC reconsider its
decision to dismiss their applications. The FCC has not yet ruled on the
request for reconsideration. TCI has also indicated that it may have an
opportunity to launch into a Mexican orbital location. In the event that
neither of those business plans are viable, TCI has indicated it will launch a
DBS into the 119DEG. WL orbital location assigned to Tempo. If TCI does launch
a DBS into the 119DEG. WL orbital location, then the applicable STA granted by
the FCC to EchoStar would expire. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation --
Business -- Competition -- DBS Industry -- Other DBS Operators."
COMPETITION FROM CABLE TELEVISION. The EchoStar DBS System will also
encounter substantial competition in the overall market for pay television
households, including cable television. Cable television operators have a large,
established customer base, and many cable operators have significant investments
in, and access to, programming. Cable television service is currently available
to approximately 90% of the approximately 96 million U.S. television households,
and approximately 64% of total television households currently subscribed to
cable. EchoStar's programming will not be available to households lacking a
clear line of sight to EchoStar's current orbital location, or to households in
apartment complexes or other multiple dwelling units that do not facilitate or
allow the installation of EchoStar Receiver Systems. In addition, subscribers to
the DISH Network-SM- will not have access to certain local broadcast channels
which are otherwise generally available from cable operators. DISH Network-SM-
subscribers desiring to access local broadcast channels may be required to
receive such channels via off-air antenna, the quality of which may be inferior
to the reception provided by cable operators. There can be no assurance that
EchoStar will be able to establish a substantial subscriber base. See "EchoStar
Communications Corporation -- Business -- Competition -- DBS Industry -- Cable
Television."
LIMITATIONS ON INSURANCE AND WARRANTIES. Pursuant to satellite
construction contracts between Lockheed Martin and each of EchoStar, DirectSat,
DBSC and EchoStar DBS Corporation, (collectively the "Satellite Contracts"), and
EchoStar's launch services contracts (the "Launch Contracts"), EchoStar,
DirectSat , DBSC and EchoStar DBS are the beneficiaries of certain limited
warranties on their satellites and launch vehicles. However, the limited
contractual warranties do not cover a substantial portion of the risk inherent
in satellite launches or satellite operations.
Although EchoStar has obtained launch insurance for DirectSat I
("EchoStar II") and in-orbit insurance for EchoStar I , it is also required
under the indenture pursuant to which a subsidiary of EchoStar, Dish, Ltd.,
issued its 12-7/8 Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1994 Notes")
(the "1994 Indenture"), to obtain in-orbit
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insurance for EchoStar II, and is required under the indenture pursuant to
which another subsidiary, EchoStar Satellite Broadcasting Corporation
("ESB"), issued its 131 8 Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1996
Notes") (the "1996 Indenture"), to obtain launch and in-orbit insurance for
DBSC I ("EchoStar III"). There can be no assurance that EchoStar will be able
to obtain in-orbit insurance for EchoStar II or in-orbit and launch insurance
for EchoStar III, respectively, on terms favorable to EchoStar. The launch
insurance policies contain (or are expected to contain), and the insurance
policies with respect to in-orbit operation contain (or are expected to
contain), standard commercial satellite insurance provisions, including a
material change condition, which, if successfully invoked, will give carriers
the ability to increase the cost of the insurance (potentially to a
commercially impracticable level), require exclusions from coverage which
would leave the risks uninsured, or rescind their coverage commitment
entirely. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business --Operation of
the EchoStar DBS System -- Insurance."
If the launch of any EchoStar satellite is a full or partial failure or if,
following launch, any EchoStar satellite does not perform to specifications,
there may be circumstances in which insurance will not fully reimburse EchoStar
for its expenditures. In addition, insurance will not reimburse EchoStar for
business interruption, loss of business and similar losses which might arise
from delay in the launch of any EchoStar satellite. See "EchoStar Communications
Corporation -- Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
RISK OF SIGNAL THEFT. The delivery of subscription programming requires
the use of encryption technology. Historically, signal theft or "piracy" in the
C-band DTH, cable television and European DBS industries has been widely
reported. Recent published reports indicate that the DirecTv and USSB encryption
systems have been compromised. There can be no assurance that continued theft of
DirecTv programming will not adversely affect EchoStar's operations. Although
EchoStar has contracted with a vendor to provide an encryption system, there can
be no assurance that the encryption technology utilized in connection with the
EchoStar DBS System will be totally effective. If EchoStar's encryption
technology is compromised in a manner which is not promptly corrected,
EchoStar's revenue and its ability to contract for video and audio services
provided by programmers would be adversely affected.
EXPECTED OPERATING AND NET LOSSES. Due to the substantial expenditures
required to complete development, construction and deployment of the EchoStar
DBS System and the introduction of its DISH Network-SM- service to consumers,
EchoStar experienced operating and net losses in 1995 and anticipates that it
will experience operating and net losses through at least 1997. There can be no
assurance that losses will not continue or that EchoStar's operations will
generate sufficient cash flows to pay its obligations, including its obligations
on the 1994 Notes and the 1996 Notes. In addition, effective August 1, 1996,
EchoStar began offering its $199 Promotion nationwide. While this promotion
will significantly increase EchoStar's investment in its subscriber base,
EchoStar believes that the increase in subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- and
the corresponding increase in DBS programming revenue in future periods
resulting from this promotion will be more than sufficient to recover the
investment in subscriber acquisition costs. See "Risk Factors -- Possible
Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock from NASDAQ," "EchoStar Communications
Corporation -- Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
POSSIBLE DELISTING OF ECHOSTAR COMMON STOCK FROM NASDAQ. In order to
continue to be designated as a NASDAQ National Market security, the issuer of
the security must meet certain maintenance criteria. Among other things, the
issuer of a NASDAQ National Market security must have net tangible assets of at
least: (i) $1 million; or (ii) $2 million if the issuer has sustained losses
from continuing operations and/or net losses in two of its three most recent
fiscal years; or (iii) $4 million if the issuer sustained losses from continuing
operations and/or net losses in three of its four most recent fiscal years. It
is possible that EchoStar's net tangible assets will not meet the NASDAQ
maintenance requirement as early as 1998. In the event EchoStar
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cannot satisfy NASDAQ's listing criteria, the EchoStar Common Stock will be
subject to being delisted unless an exception is granted by the NASD. In
that case, EchoStar could request a review by a Committee of the NASD Board
of Governors. The Committee may grant or deny continued designation on the
basis of written submission by a company and any additional data it deems
relevant. Determinations of the Committee may be appealed to the NASD Board
of Governors. If an exception were not granted, trading in EchoStar Common
Stock would thereafter be conducted in the over-the-counter market.
Consequently, an investor may find it more difficult to dispose of, or to
obtain accurate quotations as to the price of, the EchoStar Common Stock.
RISK OF SATELLITE DEFECT, LOSS OR REDUCED PERFORMANCE. Satellites are
subject to significant risks, including satellite defects, launch failure,
destruction and damage that may result in incorrect orbital placement or prevent
proper commercial operation. Approximately 15% of all commercial geosynchronous
satellite launches have resulted in a total or constructive total loss. The
failure rate varies by launch vehicle and manufacturer.
Launch delays could result from weather conditions or technical problems
with any EchoStar satellite or any launch vehicle utilized by the launch
providers for EchoStar III, EchoStar IV, or from other factors beyond
EchoStar's control.
EchoStar II was launched on September 10, 1996 on an Ariane-4 launch
vehicle. There can be no assurance that the launch of EchoStar II will prove
completely successful until approximately 60 days after its initial launch on
September 10, 1996. In the event of a launch failure involving EchoStar II,
EchoStar would be required to use the proceeds from any launch insurance claims
to make an offer to repurchase approximately one-half of the accreted value of
the 1994 Notes from the holders thereof. In the event that a substantial number
of holders of 1994 Notes accepted that offer, EchoStar's plan of operations,
including its liquidity, would be adversely affected and it would not be
possible to construct and launch a replacement satellite without obtaining
additional financing. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations --
Liquidity and Capital Resources." In the event of a launch failure of
EchoStar III, under the 1996 Indenture EchoStar would be required to use the
proceeds from any launch insurance to purchase satellites or, at the ESB's
option, to make an offer to repurchase the maximum amount of 1996 Notes that can
be purchased with those proceeds.
In addition, a number of satellites constructed by Lockheed Martin over
the past three years have experienced defects resulting in total or partial loss
following launch. The type of failures experienced have varied widely. Lockheed
Martin constructed EchoStar I and EchoStar II and is constructing EchoStar III
and EchoStar IV. No assurances can be given that EchoStar I, EchoStar II,
EchoStar III or EchoStar IV will perform according to specifications.
FCC AUCTION RISKS. Appeals are currently pending of the FCC's decision to
revoke the construction permit of a former DBS permittee which resulted in
channels becoming available for FCC auction at which EchoStar purchased 24
channels at 148DEG. WL. The FCC's decision to auction those reclaimed channels
has been appealed by EchoStar, DirectSat, DBSC and DirecTv. There can be no
assurance that the FCC will prevail in those court actions. If the FCC's actions
are overturned, EchoStar's purchase of channels at
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148DEG. WL would be voided and EchoStar would be required to repurchase up
to $52.3 million of the 1996 Notes.
RESTRICTIONS ON EXPORT OF TECHNOLOGY AFFECTING LAUNCH OF ECHOSTAR'S
SATELLITES. EchoStar has contracted with Lockheed-Khrunichev-Energia
International, Inc. ("LKE") for the launch of EchoStar IV. LKE is a joint
venture between Lockheed Martin and two Russian Federation state owned
enterprises. The proposed launch site is located in the Kazakh Republic in the
former Soviet Union. In order for EchoStar IV to be launched from Kazakhstan,
the satellite contractor will similarly need to obtain a technical data exchange
license and a satellite export license from the United States government.
There can be no assurance those licenses can be obtained in a timely manner to
avoid a launch delay.
Given the potential instability of political, economic and social
conditions in the Russian Federation and Kazakhstan, and in light of certain
demands by the United States regarding human rights and arms proliferation,
there can be no assurance that the United States government will not at some
future date impose sanctions against Russia or Kazakhstan that would prevent
issuance, or result in revocation, of the technical data license and/or the
export license with respect to EchoStar IV. Any such action would prevent
EchoStar from launching EchoStar IV as and when intended, resulting in
significant delays that would adversely affect expected operating results for
the EchoStar DBS System. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business --
Government Regulation -- Export Regulation."
RISKS OF ADVERSE EFFECTS OF GOVERNMENT REGULATION. EchoStar is subject to
the regulatory authority of the United States government and the national
communications authorities of the countries in which it operates. The business
prospects of EchoStar could be adversely affected by the adoption of new laws,
policies or regulations, or changes in the interpretation or application of
existing laws, policies and regulations, that modify the present regulatory
environment.
The FCC authorizations for all of EchoStar's satellites (including for
purposes of this paragraph, the satellites for which EchoStar Satellite
Corporation ("ESC"), DirectSat, EchoStar DBS and DBSC hold or are expected to
hold authorizations) require EchoStar to comply with all applicable requirements
of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the "Communications Act"), and
FCC regulations including, specifically, compliance with construction and launch
milestones and periodic filing of progress reports. In the event EchoStar at any
time fails to comply with applicable Communications Act requirements and FCC
regulations, including FCC Due Diligence Requirements, the FCC has the authority
to revoke, condition or decline to extend or renew the authorizations for that
and any subsequent satellites and, in connection with that action, could
exercise its authority to rescind these authorizations. The FCC has granted
EchoStar conditional authority to use C-band frequencies for telemetry, tracking
and control ("TT&C") functions for EchoStar I, stating that the required
coordination process with Canada and Mexico had been completed. However, the FCC
subsequently received a communication from an official of the Ministry of
Communications and Transportation of Mexico stating that EchoStar I's TT&C
operations could cause unacceptable interference to Mexican satellites. There
can be no assurance that such objections will not subsequently require EchoStar
to relinquish the use of such C-band frequencies for TT&C purposes. The
inability to control the satellite would result in a total loss of the
satellite. Further, EchoStar has filed a request with the FCC to change the
control frequency for TT&C of EchoStar II, and this request, which is pending,
has been opposed. If the FCC does not grant this request, EchoStar will incur
additional costs in obtaining TT&C services, and substantial delays in
completion of construction and launch of EchoStar II would result. In addition,
EchoStar will require further FCC authorization to operate, or launch and
operate, all of EchoStar's satellites. Certain of EchoStar's pending and future
requests to the FCC for extensions, waivers and approvals have been, and are
expected to continue to be, opposed by third parties. There can be no assurance
that EchoStar's requests will be granted or, if granted, that they will be
granted on a timely basis or on terms
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favorable to EchoStar. The loss of any of EchoStar's FCC authorizations, the
failure to obtain requested extensions or waivers or the imposition of
conditions would adversely affect EchoStar's plan of operations, and its
current business plan could not be fully implemented. See "EchoStar
Communications Corporation -- Business -- Government Regulation -- FCC
Permits and Licenses."
EchoStar has applied for an extension of the EchoStar I STA for an
additional 180 days. Tempo Inc. ("Tempo"), a subsidiary of
Tele-Communications, Inc. ("TCI"), which has a construction permit for the
five EchoStar I STA frequencies, has filed an opposition to the extension.
EchoStar has responded to the opposition and Tempo has replied. The FCC has
granted EchoStar a 30-day extension until September 30, 1996 of the EchoStar
I STA until it rules on Tempo's opposition. In its opposition Tempo asserts,
among other things, that there is no statutory basis for granting an STA
unless the STA recipient has an application pending for frequencies with
regard to which the STA is to be granted. As of the date of this Information
Statement -- Prospectus, the FCC has not ruled on any further extension of
the EchoStar I STA. EchoStar believes, but can give no assurance, that the
FCC will extend the EchoStar I STA for an additional 180 days.
DirectSat has FCC permits to operate 10 frequencies at 119DEG. WL and has
constructed a 16 transponder satellite, EchoStar II, to operate these
frequencies. DirectSat has filed an application with the FCC for an STA
covering the remaining six transponders on the satellite. Tempo has opposed
this application and DirectSat has responded to the opposition. Tempo has
replied to the FCC regarding DirectSat's response. As of the date of this
Information Statement -- Prospectus, the FCC has not ruled on DirectSat's STA
application. EchoStar believes, but can give no assurance, that the FCC will
grant the EchoStar II STA for a period of 180 days.
The FCC Due Diligence Requirements require that DBS permittees proceed with
diligence to construct satellites and commence operations at their assigned
orbital locations. The FCC has indicated it may revoke DBS permits if there are
delays in the satellite construction schedule submitted by the permittee to the
FCC. The schedule submitted by DBSC calls for the completion of construction at
61.5DEG. WL of EchoStar III by July 31, 1997, and a satellite at 175DEG. WL by
July 31, 1998. Any delay in this schedule may cause total or partial revocation
of DBSC's permits. Likewise, DirectSat may risk loss of its permit for channels
at 175DEG. WL if its satellite is not completed by mid-1998. Further, the FCC
has not yet completed its review to determine whether EchoStar's contract for
the construction of the western satellite of its system meets the FCC's Due
Diligence Requirements. Therefore, the FCC has not yet assigned to EchoStar
frequencies for that satellite. While it is possible that DBSC, DirectSat and
EchoStar may construct a satellite for joint use by all three at 175DEG. WL
(provided that ESC is found to have a firm contract and receives frequency
assignments at 175DEG. WL), EchoStar will still be required to construct and
launch two or more satellites in addition to EchoStar I, EchoStar II and
EchoStar III in order to preserve all of its DBS permits (plus additional
satellites for the single frequencies at each of the 110DEG. WL and 166DEG. WL
orbital slots in order to avoid loss of those frequencies). Finally, with
respect to the 24 orbital assignments at the 148DEG. WL orbital slot, provided
that the FCC approves EchoStar's request for a one-satellite system at that slot
(as opposed to the two-satellite system currently contemplated by international
regulations), EchoStar must complete contracting for a satellite within one year
of receiving the permit, must complete construction within four years of
receiving the permit and must launch and operate a satellite within six years of
receiving the permit. Absent infusion of additional significant capital,
EchoStar will not be able to retain all of its assigned frequencies and orbital
slots. There can be no assurance that EchoStar will be able to comply with the
FCC's Due Diligence Requirements or that the FCC will determine that EchoStar
has complied with such Due Diligence Requirements.
OPPOSITION TO, AND RISK OF LOSS OF, DIRECTSAT AUTHORIZATIONS. In
connection with the merger of DirectSat with a subsidiary of EchoStar (which was
approved by the FCC in November 1994), DirectSat's authorization to utilize ten
frequencies at 119DEG. WL, the same orbital location for which EchoStar has
received authorization, became integral to the EchoStar DBS System. DirectSat's
first satellite, EchoStar II, will be positioned at that location. Dominion
Video Satellite, Inc. ("Dominion"), the original permittee of DirectSat's
frequencies at 119DEG. WL, has filed a petition with the FCC contesting the
revocation of Dominion's orbital slot assignment at 119DEG. WL and the
granting of DirectSat's authorizations at the same location. Dominion and
several other parties have challenged DirectSat's diligence in meeting its
required construction schedule. Dominion has also challenged the merger of
DirectSat and EchoStar at the FCC, and has filed objections to the
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FCC's approval of that merger. The FCC rejected Dominion's petition for
reconsideration of that revocation, and Dominion has appealed to the U.S.
Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. If Dominion were to
prevail in its appeal, and in any subsequent FCC action on remand EchoStar
believes that DirectSat's easterly orbital slot assignment would most likely
be moved from 119DEG. WL to 61.5DEG. WL, which would have an adverse effect
on EchoStar's proposed DBS operations. By order released January 11, 1996,
the FCC's International Bureau extended the DBS permit of DirectSat to 1999,
subject to the condition that the FCC may reconsider the extension and modify
or cancel it, in whole or in part, if DirectSat fails to make progress toward
construction and operation of its DBS system substantially in compliance with
its promised timetable, or with any more expedited timetable ordered by the
FCC. In the same order the FCC denied reconsideration of its earlier decision
to assign channels and orbital locations to DirectSat at 119DEG. WL and
175DEG. WL for its DBS system. PrimeStar has applied for full FCC review of
this order and other parties may seek reconsideration, full FCC review,
and/or judicial review of the FCC order. In addition, in the event that
EchoStar loses the DirectSat frequencies at 119DEG. WL, EchoStar would be
required to offer to repurchase one-half of the 1994 Notes and the 1996
Notes. In the event that a substantial number of holders of the 1994 Notes or
the 1996 Notes accepted that offer, EchoStar's plan of operations, including
its liquidity, would be adversely affected and it might not be possible to
implement EchoStar's current business plan without obtaining additional
financing. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business -- Legal
Proceedings."
OPPOSITION TO, AND RISK OF LOSS OF, DBSC AUTHORIZATIONS. DBSC's
authorization to construct and operate two DBS spacecraft initially expired on
August 15, 1995. Prior to that date, DBSC applied for an extension of time,
based upon a variety of factors, including its initiation of the construction
period for its first spacecraft in May 1995. DBSC indicated that it had signed
an amendment to the DBSC Satellite Contract, by which DBSC ordered a
32 transponder spacecraft in lieu of the previously contracted for
16 transponder satellite. DBSC filed an application for FCC approval of this
minor modification in spacecraft design. In December 1995, the FCC staff
approved DBSC's request for an extension of time, giving it until 1998 to
complete construction of its satellites subject to continued compliance with the
FCC's Due Diligence Requirements. PrimeStar has sought full FCC review of this
decision. The FCC has not yet ruled on PrimeStar's petition and no assurances
can be given that the FCC will sustain the staff's determination. The FCC's
staff has declined to rule on DBSC's request for minor modification of its
authorization pending the submission to the FCC of interference data based on
the proposed new spacecraft design. DBSC has not prepared such data and there
can be no assurance that upon the submission of such data the FCC will grant the
modification application.
POLITICAL RISKS PERTAINING TO LAUNCH PROVIDERS. EchoStar has contracted
with LKE for a 1998 launch. LKE launches occur in the Kazakh Republic and
require coordination with the governments of Russia and Kazakhstan. Any
political or social instability, such as that currently being experienced in the
former Soviet block countries, could affect the cost, timing and overall
advisability of utilizing LKE as launch provider for EchoStar's satellites. See
"EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business -- Operation of the EchoStar
DBS System -- Satellite Launches."
POTENTIAL FOR DELAY AND COST OVERRUNS. Significant expenditures are
required to complete construction and deployment of the EchoStar DBS System.
Funds, in addition to existing cash balances, will be required in the event of
delays, cost overruns, increased costs associated with certain potential change
orders under the Satellite Contracts or the Launch Contracts, a change in launch
provider, material increases in estimated levels of operating cash requirements,
if increases in subscriber acquisition costs occur above current and anticipated
levels, or to meet other unanticipated expenses. There can be no assurance that
such financing will be available or that, if available, it will be available on
terms favorable to EchoStar. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation --
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
A significant delay in the delivery or launch of any EchoStar satellite
would adversely affect EchoStar's operations and may result in the cancellation
of any of the permits of ESC, DirectSat, EchoStar DBS and DBSC by the FCC. See
"Risk of Satellite Defect, Loss or Reduced Performance." In addition, any
material delay in the delivery of EchoStar's DBS receivers or related components
would negatively affect EchoStar's financial condition
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and results of operations. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation --
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
DEPENDENCE ON SINGLE RECEIVER MANUFACTURER. EchoStar has agreements with
two manufacturers to supply DBS receivers for EchoStar. Only one of EchoStar's
manufacturers has produced a receiver acceptable to EchoStar. EchoStar has paid
the nonperforming manufacturer $10.0 million and has an additional $15.0 million
in an escrow account as security for EchoStar's payment obligations under that
contract. EchoStar has given this nonperforming manufacturer notice of its
intent to terminate the contract, and therefore EchoStar is currently dependent
on one manufacturing source for its receivers. The performing manufacturer is
presently manufacturing receivers in sufficient quantities to meet currently
expected demand. If EchoStar's sole manufacturer is unable for any reason to
produce receivers in a quantity sufficient to meet demand, EchoStar's liquidity
and results of operations may be adversely affected. There can be no assurance
EchoStar will be able to recover all amounts paid the nonperforming
manufacturer or otherwise held in escrow.
SUBSTANTIAL LEVERAGE. A subsidiary of EchoStar, Dish, Ltd., is highly
leveraged, and EchoStar Satellite Broadcasting Corporation, a wholly owned
subsidiary of EchoStar ("ESB"), as a result of the issuance of the 1996 Notes,
is also highly leveraged. This degree of leverage could make EchoStar vulnerable
to changes in general economic conditions. Substantially all of the assets of
Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries are pledged as collateral for the 1994 Notes,
and a substantial portion of the assets of EchoStar's direct subsidiaries are
pledged as collateral for the 1996 Notes. Thus it is, and will continue to be,
difficult to obtain additional debt if required or desired in order to implement
EchoStar's business strategy. Dish, Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries are
also parties to several agreements (in addition to the 1994 Indenture) that
severely restrict their ability to obtain additional debt financing for working
capital, capital expenditures, and general corporate purposes. As security for
the performance of its obligations under these agreements, certain subsidiaries
of Dish, Ltd. have pledged substantial assets as collateral. ESB, including
Dish, Ltd., had outstanding approximately $811.3 million of long-term debt
(including both the current and long-term portion) (including the 1996 Notes,
the 1994 Notes, deferred satellite contract payments on EchoStar I and mortgage
debt) as of June 30, 1996 (excluding approximately $28.0 million of deferred
satellite contract payments to be incurred in connection with the manufacture of
EchoStar II). In addition, because interest on the 1994 Notes currently is not
payable in cash but accrues through June 1, 1999, liability with respect to the
1994 Notes will increase by approximately $215.6 million through that date to
$624.0 million. Similarly, interest on the 1996 Notes accrues through March 15,
2000, at which time liability with respect to those notes will increase $218.3
million to $580.0 million. Additional debt may be incurred by Dish, Ltd. or ESB
(subject to limitations contained in the 1994 Indenture and 1996 Indenture,
respectively) if unanticipated costs or delays are experienced in the
construction and completion of the EchoStar DBS System. The ability of Dish,
Ltd. and ESB to meet their respective debt obligations will depend on the
success of EchoStar's business strategy, the success of which is subject to
uncertainties and contingencies beyond EchoStar's control.
HOLDING COMPANY STRUCTURE; STRUCTURAL SUBORDINATION. As of June 30, 1996,
the liabilities of EchoStar and its subsidiaries aggregated approximately
$869.2 million. Since all of ESB's and Dish, Ltd.'s operations are conducted
through subsidiaries, the cash flow of ESB and Dish, Ltd. and their ability to
service debt, including the 1994 Notes and the 1996 Notes, are dependent upon
the earnings of their subsidiaries and the payment of funds by those
subsidiaries to Dish, Ltd. and ESB in the form of loans, dividends or other
payments. The 1994 Indenture contains restrictions on the ability of Dish, Ltd.
to pay dividends to ESB. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Description
of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes." Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries have no
current obligations, contingent or otherwise, to pay any amounts due pursuant to
the 1996 Notes or to make any funds available therefor, whether by dividends,
loans or other payments, other than the possible guarantee of the 1996 Notes by
Dish, Ltd. which will become effective when and if permitted by the 1994
Indenture. The cash flow generated by Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries will only be
available to satisfy ESB's obligations
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on the 1996 Notes after payment of all amounts then due and payable under the
1994 Notes and then only if and to the extent that the 1994 Indenture permits
Dish, Ltd. to make such cash available to ESB in the form of dividends, loans
or other payments. In addition, Dish, Ltd. generally may pay dividends on its
equity securities only if: (i) no default exits under the 1994 Indenture; and
(ii) after giving effect to such dividends, Dish, Ltd.'s ratio of total
indebtedness to cash flow would not exceed 4.0 to 1. Moreover, the aggregate
amount of such dividends generally may not exceed the sum of 50% of Dish,
Ltd.'s consolidated net income from the date of the 1994 Indenture, plus 100%
of the aggregate net proceeds to Dish, Ltd. from the sale and issuance of
certain equity interests of Dish, Ltd. If available cash flows of Dish Ltd.'s
subsidiaries are not sufficient to service the 1996 Notes, ESB would be
required to obtain cash from other sources, such as sales of assets or equity
or debt securities by EchoStar or capital contributions or loans made by
EchoStar from proceeds thereof or cash otherwise available to EchoStar or its
other direct subsidiaries. There can be no assurance that those alternative
sources would be sufficient to service the 1996 Notes.
UNCERTAINTY OF SPRINGING GUARANTEES. Initially, ESB's payment obligations
under the 1996 Notes are only guaranteed (on a subordinated basis) by EchoStar.
On and after the earliest to occur of: (i) the date upon which Dish, Ltd. is
permitted, pursuant to the terms of the 1994 Indenture to guarantee ESB's total
payment obligations made on all of the then outstanding 1996 Notes; or (ii) the
first date upon which the 1994 Notes are no longer outstanding or have been
defeased (the "Dish Guarantee Date"), ESB's payment obligations under the 1996
Notes will be guaranteed (on a PARI PASSU basis with all senior unsecured debt
of Dish, Ltd.) by Dish, Ltd. (the "Dish Guarantee"). Dish, Ltd. may not incur
or guarantee debt, subject to certain limited exceptions, unless, giving effect
to such debt or guarantee, its Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio would be less
than 5.0 to 1 (if prior to June 1, 1998) or 4.0 to 1 (if on or after June 1,
1998). For the year ended December 31, 1995, Dish, Ltd. had negative cash
flow. Therefore, there can be no assurance that the Dish Guarantee will be
effected at any time. In addition, upon consummation of the Merger, ESB's
payment obligations under the 1996 Notes will be guaranteed (on a PARI PASSU
basis with all senior unsecured debt of DBSC) by DBSC. If the Merger is not
consummated, DBSC will not guarantee the 1996 Notes. Although FCC Approval
of the Merger has been obtained , there can be no assurance that the Merger
will be consummated.
CONTINGENT COLLATERAL. The 1996 Notes are secured by certain collateral
relating to DBSC and EchoStar III. Following consummation of the Merger the 1996
Notes will be secured by: (i) a first priority security interest, when launched,
in EchoStar III; (ii) a collateral assignment of all contracts relating to
construction, launch, insurance and TT&C of EchoStar III; and (iii) a pledge of
all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of MergerCo. In the event that
the Merger is not consummated but the Substitute DBSC Transaction is
consummated, the 1996 Notes will be secured by a collateral assignment of all
contracts and agreements relating to the Substitute DBSC Transaction. In the
event neither the Merger nor the Substitute DBSC Transaction is consummated, no
additional collateral will be provided to secure the 1996 Notes, and ESB will be
required to make an offer to each holder of 1996 Notes to repurchase a portion
of the holder's 1996 Notes. Although FCC Approval of the Merger has been
obtained , there can be no assurance that the Merger or the Substitute DBSC
Transaction will be consummated.
NEED FOR ADDITIONAL CAPITAL. EchoStar will require additional funds to
complete and launch of a third, fourth and fifth DBS satellite. Further,
EchoStar has an application pending with the FCC for a two satellite Ku-band
system, a two satellite extended Ku-band system and a six satellite low earth
orbit ("LEO") satellite system, and has been granted a conditional license for a
two-satellite fixed satellite service ("FSS") Ka-band system. EchoStar will need
to raise additional funds for the foregoing purposes. See "EchoStar
Communications Corporation -- Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS. The 1996 Indenture contains restrictive covenants
that, among other things, limit the ability of ESB and its subsidiaries to:
(i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) issue preferred stock; (iii) sell
assets;
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(iv) create, incur or assume liens; (v) create dividend and other repayment
restrictions with respect to ESB's subsidiaries; (vi) merge, consolidate or
sell assets; (vii) incur subordinated or junior debt; (viii) enter into
transactions with affiliates; and (ix) pay dividends. The 1994 Indenture
contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of
Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries to: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii)
issue preferred stock; (iii) sell assets; (iv) create, incur or as[cad 228]sume
liens; (v) create dividend and other repayment restrictions with respect to
Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries; (vi) merge, consolidate or sell assets; (vii)
incur subordinated or junior debt; (viii) enter into transactions with
affiliates; and (ix) pay dividends. These restrictions may inhibit EchoStar's
ability to manage its business and to react to changing market conditions.
EchoStar does not intend to pay any dividends in the near future. See
"EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Description of Certain Indebtedness
- -- 1994 Notes" and "-- 1996 Notes."
DECLINE IN DOMESTIC C-BAND DTH PRODUCT SALES. Historically, EchoStar has
sold C-band direct-to-home ("DTH") products in the United States. The recent
growth of DBS service and equipment sales has and will continue to have a
material negative impact on EchoStar's domestic sales of C-band DTH products.
The significant growth of DBS is at least partially attributable to the lower
cost to the consumer of DBS systems compared to that for C-band DTH systems and
the smaller size of the DBS dish compared to the C-band dish. There can be no
assurance that EchoStar will not have to sell C-band DTH inventory at prices
below cost.
LIMITED LIFE OF SATELLITES. Each EchoStar satellite will have a limited
useful life. A number of factors will affect the useful lives of the satellites,
including the quality of their construction, the durability of their component
parts, the longevity of their orbits and the launch vehicle used. The minimum
design life of each of EchoStar I, EchoStar II , EchoStar III and EchoStar IV is
12 years. There can be no assurance, however, as to the useful life of the
satellites. EchoStar's operating results would be adversely affected in the
event the useful life of any of these satellites were significantly shorter than
12 years. The Satellite Contracts contain no warranties in the event of a
failure of EchoStar I, EchoStar II , EchoStar III or EchoStar IV following
launch. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business -- Operation of the
EchoStar DBS System -- The Satellites."
DEPENDENCE ON SATELLITES AND SINGLE DIGITAL BROADCAST CENTER. Prior to the
end of the anticipated useful lives of EchoStar satellites, EchoStar will need
to obtain replacement satellites. There can be no assurance that those
replacements will be available when required or, if available, that they will be
available on terms acceptable to EchoStar. Various FCC approvals would be
required with respect to replacement satellites, including but not limited to,
renewal of EchoStar's ten year license. There is no assurance that the FCC will
grant the approvals.
EchoStar also relies upon a single digital broadcast center, in Cheyenne,
Wyoming, for key operations such as reception of programming signals, encryption
and compression. If a natural or other disaster damaged the digital broadcast
center, there can be no assurance that EchoStar would be able to continue to
provide programming services to its customers.
RISKS OF FAILURE OF COMPLEX TECHNOLOGY. The EchoStar DBS System is highly
complex. Final development, manufacture and integration of technologically
diverse and advanced components is not yet complete. New applications and
adaptations of existing and new technology (including compression, conditional
access, on screen guides and other matters), and significant software
development, are integral to the EchoStar DBS System. As a result, the EchoStar
DBS System may not function as expected.
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Technology in the satellite television industry is in a rapid and
continuing state of change as new technologies develop. Although the digital
compression technology utilized in connection with the EchoStar DBS System is
the world standard, the integration and implementation of that technology is
also undergoing rapid change. There can be no assurance that EchoStar and its
suppliers will be able to keep pace with technological developments. In
addition, delays in the delivery of components or other unforeseen problems in
the EchoStar DBS System may occur that could adversely affect performance, cost
or timely deployment and operation of the EchoStar DBS System and could have an
adverse effect on EchoStar. Further, in the event that a competitive satellite
receiver technology becomes commonly accepted as the standard for satellite
receivers in the United States, EchoStar would be at a significant technological
disadvantage. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business --
Operation of the EchoStar DBS System."
EFFECT OF LOSS OF KEY PERSONNEL. EchoStar believes that its future success
will depend to a significant extent upon the performance of certain individuals,
particularly Charles W. Ergen, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
of EchoStar, R. Scott Zimmer, President of EIC, James DeFranco, President of HTS
and EAC, and Carl E. Vogel, EchoStar's Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer and the President of ESC. The loss of any of these four
individuals could have an adverse effect on EchoStar's business. EchoStar does
not maintain "key man" insurance with respect to any such individuals and, other
than Mr. Vogel, it has not negotiated employment agreements with such
individuals.
CONTROL OF ECHOSTAR BY PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDER. Although Charles W. Ergen,
the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of EchoStar, currently owns
73.6% of the total equity securities of EchoStar (assuming exercise of employee
stock options), he currently possesses approximately 96.1% of the total voting
power. Thus, Mr. Ergen has, and after the Merger will continue to have, the
ability to elect a majority of the directors of EchoStar and to control all
other matters requiring the approval of EchoStar's stockholders. See "EchoStar
communications Corporation -- Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
and Management." For Mr. Ergen's total voting power in EchoStar to be reduced
to below 51%, his percentage ownership of the equity securities of EchoStar
would have to be reduced to below 10%.
DEPENDENCE ON THIRD PARTY PROGRAMMERS. EchoStar is dependent on third
parties to provide EchoStar with programming. EchoStar's programming agreements
have remaining terms ranging from one to ten years and contain various renewal
and cancellation provisions. There can be no assurance that any of these
agreements will be renewed or will not be cancelled prior to expiration of their
original term. In the event that any such agreements are not renewed or are
cancelled, there is no assurance that EchoStar would be able to obtain or
develop substitute programming, or that such substitute programming would be
comparable in quality or cost to EchoStar's existing programming. EchoStar's
competitors currently offer substantially the same programming as EchoStar. The
ability of EchoStar to compete successfully will depend on EchoStar's ability to
continue to obtain desirable programming and attractively package it to its
customers at competitive prices. See "EchoStar Communications Corporation --
Business -- Products and Services -- DBS and Related Services -- Programming."
Pursuant to the Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of
1992 (the "Cable Act"), programming developed by vertically integrated
cable-affiliated programmers generally must be offered to all potential buyers
on fair and reasonable terms. EchoStar anticipates purchasing a substantial
percentage of its programming from cable-affiliated programmers. Certain of the
restrictions on cable-affiliated programmers will expire in 2002 unless the FCC
extends them. As a result, any expiration of, amendment to, or interpretation
of, the Cable Act that permits the cable industry to discriminate in the sale of
programming against competing businesses, such as that of EchoStar, could
adversely affect EchoStar's ability to acquire programming or acquire
programming on a cost-effective basis. Regulation and the need to obtain certain
retransmission consents and copyright licenses may limit the ability of EchoStar
to implement a local programming strategy in multiple markets.
RISK OF INABILITY TO MANAGE RAPIDLY EXPANDING OPERATIONS. EchoStar must
expand its operations rapidly to achieve its business objectives. Several of
EchoStar's key activities, including satellite in-orbit control, satellite
receiver manufacturing, billing and subscriber management are out-sourced to
third party vendors. To manage its growth effectively, EchoStar must continue to
develop, install and improve its operating and information
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systems and coordinate efforts with its third party vendors. EchoStar will
also need to continue to expand, train and manage its employee base, and its
management personnel will be required to assume even greater levels of
responsibility. If EchoStar is unable to manage its growth effectively,
EchoStar's business and results of operations could be materially adversely
affected.
RISKS OF INFRINGEMENT OF PATENTS AND PROPRIETARY RIGHTS. EchoStar does
not believe that patents and other intellectual property rights are material
to its business, although many of EchoStar's competitors have obtained, and
may be expected to obtain in the future, patents that cover or affect
products or services directly or indirectly related to those offered by
EchoStar. There can be no assurance that EchoStar is aware of all patents
that may potentially be infringed by its products. In addition, patent
applications in the United States are confidential until a patent is issued
and, accordingly, EchoStar cannot evaluate the extent to which its products
may infringe claims contained in pending patent applications. EchoStar has
been notified that certain features of the EchoStar Receiver System allegedly
infringe on patents held by others, and that royalties are therefore required
to be paid. If it were determined that the features at issue or any other of
EchoStar's products infringe on patents held by others, EchoStar would be
required to cease developing or marketing those products, to obtain licenses
to develop and market those products from the holders of the patents or to
redesign those products in such a way as to avoid infringing the patent
claims. The extent to which EchoStar may be required in the future to obtain
licenses with respect to patents held by others and the availability and cost
of any such licenses is currently unknown. There can be no assurance that
EchoStar would be able to obtain such licenses on commercially reasonable
terms or, if it were unable to obtain such licenses, that it would be able to
redesign its products to avoid infringement. In the event EchoStar was not
able to obtain such licenses on commercially reasonable terms, or if it was
unable to obtain such licenses and it could not otherwise redesign its
products to avoid infringement, EchoStar's business and results of operations
could be materially adversely affected.
RISK OF SATELLITE DAMAGE OR LOSS FROM ACTS OF WAR, ELECTROSTATIC STORM
AND SPACE DEBRIS. The loss, damage or destruction of any EchoStar satellites
as a result of military actions or acts of war, anti-satellite devices,
electrostatic storm or collision with space debris would have a material
adverse effect on EchoStar. EchoStar's insurance policies include customary
exclusions including: (i) military or similar actions; (ii) laser, directed
energy or nuclear anti-satellite devices; and (iii) insurrection and similar
acts or governmental action.
RISK THAT INITIAL EQUIPMENT COSTS WILL LIMIT CONSUMER DEMAND FOR DISH
NETWORK-SM- PROGRAMMING. The suggested retail price of an EchoStar Receiver
System before the $199 Promotion was between approximately $499 and $599,
depending on the model selected by the customer, among other factors. The
initial equipment cost required to receive DISH Network-SM- programming may
reduce the demand for EchoStar Receiver Systems, since EchoStar Receiver
Systems must be purchased, while cable and certain of EchoStar's satellite
competitors lease their equipment to the consumer with little if any initial
hardware payment required. EchoStar is currently offering the $199
Promotion nationwide. The price of the annual programming package of DISH
Network-SM- service included in the $199 Promotion is $300, which is comparable
to the price of a similar package of annual cable programming. This
promotion has greatly reduced the initial capital investment relative to
cable. See "Risk Factors -- Possible Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock
from NASDAQ."
RISK THAT FAILURE TO FINANCE CONSUMERS WILL LIMIT DEMAND OF ECHOSTAR
RECEIVER SYSTEMS. Certain of EchoStar's subsidiaries, Echo Acceptance
Corporation, Dish Network Credit Corporation, EchoStar Satellite Corporation
and EchoSphere Corporation (collectively, "EchoStar Credit"), have filed a
civil action against Associates Investment Corporation ("Associates") in the
District Court of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado, Civil Action No.
96 CV 1644 seeking injunctive relief together with other remedies (the
"Associates Lawsuit"). This action has been removed to the Federal District
Court in the District of Colorado. EchoStar
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Credit allege that the Associates, among other things, breached its contract
with EchoStar Credit pursuant to which Associates agreed to finance the
purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems by consumers. EchoStar Credit allege
that the Associates' refusal to finance certain prospective consumers has
resulted in the loss of approximately 700 to 1,000 customers per day to
EchoStar's competitors. In addition, EchoStar Credit allege that the loss of
sales due to the Associates action has forced EchoStar to lower the price on
its products. As a result of the actions alleged by EchoStar Credit to have
been taken by the Associates, EchoStar Credit may be forced to seek a new
finance company to finance the purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems. There
can be no assurance that such financing will be available or that, if
available, it will be available on terms favorable to EchoStar. In addition,
any material delay in the ability of EchoStar to obtain subscribers to DISH
Network-SM- programming would negatively affect EchoStar's financial condition
and results of operations. See "Possible Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock
from NASDAQ."
FACTORS CONCERNING THE MERGER
ABSENCE OF FAIRNESS OPINION. In approving the Merger Agreement and the
transactions contemplated thereby, DBSC's Board of Directors (the "DBSC
Board") did not obtain, and did not seek, an opinion regarding the fairness
of the Merger from an independent financial advisor. See "The Merger --
Reasons for the Merger."
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER. Harley W. Radin, the Chairman
of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of DBSC, owns approximately 18.4% of
the issued and outstanding shares of DBSC Common Stock and has previously
voted his DBSC Common Shares to approve the Merger. Mr. Radin may continue in
some capacity, to be determined, with MergerCo after consummation of the
Merger. In addition, DBSI owns 24.8% of DBSC Common Stock. The $4.0 million
and accrued interest owed to EchoStar is secured by 125,000 shares of DBSC
Common Stock, among other collateral. Fred W. Thompson, a director of DBSC,
is the President and Chief Executive Officer of DBSI, as well as a
significant shareholder of DBSI. Daniel E. Moore, Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer of SSET, owns 2,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock
and SSET owns 912,717 shares of EchoStar Class A Common Stock. In addition,
SSET currently owes EchoStar approximately $5.2 million plus accrued
interest related to its convertible nonrecourse debentures. These debentures
are secured by the EchoStar Class A Common Stock owned by SSET. Charles W.
Ergen, Chairman of EchoStar, also serves on the Board of Directors of SSET.
OPPOSITION TO, AND RISK OF RECONSIDERATION OF, MERGER APPLICATION. In
February 1996, DBSC, EchoStar and MergerCo filed an application with the FCC
for approval of the Merger. A timely objection to the Merger was filed by the
Consumer Project on Technology ("CPT"). CPT contended in its objection that
the Merger would permit EchoStar to acquire a dominant and anticompetitive
position in the DBS marketplace by aggregating an excessive number of DBS
channels. A series of letters objecting to the Merger were also filed
subsequently by the CPT and another public interest group. These letters
raised the same issues as the CPT's earlier objection. FCC Approval of the
Merger was obtained on August 30, 1996. However, CPT may seek
reconsideration, full FCC review or judicial review of the grant of the
Merger application.
RISK OF ANTITRUST CHALLENGES TO MERGER. Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 ("HSR Act") and the rules that have been
promulgated thereunder by the Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC"), certain
acquisition transactions may not be consummated unless certain information
has been furnished to the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice
(the "Antitrust Division") and the FTC and certain waiting period
requirements have been satisfied. The acquisition of DBSC Common Stock by
EchoStar in connection with the Merger is subject to such requirements. On
June 7, 1996 EchoStar and DBSC each filed a Notification and Report Form with
the Antitrust Division and the FTC. On June 28, 1996, EchoStar and DBSC
received early termination of the waiting period requirements under the HSR
Act.
Although both EchoStar and DBSC have received early termination of the
waiting period requirements under the HSR Act, the FTC and the Antitrust
Division may still scrutinize the legality under the antitrust laws of
transactions such as the Merger. At any time before or after EchoStar's
acquisition of DBSC Common Stock either the Antitrust Division or the FTC
could take such action under the antitrust laws as it deems necessary or
desirable in the public interest, including seeking to enjoin the acquisition
of DBSC Common Stock or
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otherwise seeking divestiture of DBSC Common Stock acquired by EchoStar or
divestiture of substantial assets of EchoStar or its subsidiaries. Private
parties and state attorneys general may also bring legal action under the
antitrust laws under certain circumstances. There can be no assurance that
a challenge to the Merger or other acquisition of DBSC Common Stock by
EchoStar on antitrust grounds will not be made, or, if such a challenge is
made, of the result.
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RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS
Section 262 of the DGCL, which is reprinted as Annex III to this
Information Statement -- Prospectus, entitles any DBSC Shareholder who
dissents from the Merger and who follows the procedures set forth therein to
receive in cash the "fair value" of their DBSC Common Stock, which fair value
shall be determined exclusive of any appreciation or depreciation in
anticipation of the Merger, in lieu of the Merger Consideration.
The following discussion is a summary of the procedures that a DBSC
Shareholder must follow to exercise dissenters' rights under the DGCL. This
summary sets forth all material elements of Section 262, but does not purport
to be a complete statement of Section 262, and it is qualified in its
entirety by reference to such Section of the DGCL (see Annex III) and to any
amendments to such Section adopted after the date of this Information
Statement -- Prospectus.
A DBSC Shareholder who makes the demand described below with respect to
such shares, who continuously is the record holder of such shares through the
Effective Time and who otherwise complies with the statutory requirements of
Section 262 will be entitled to an appraisal by the Delaware Court of
Chancery (the "Court") of the fair value of his DBSC Common Stock.
MergerCo (Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado
corporation) must, within 10 days after the Merger is effected, send by
certified or registered mail to any such dissenting DBSC Shareholder written
notice of the Effective Date and that appraisal rights are available (the
"Notice"). To properly exercise dissenters' rights, a written demand for
appraisal setting forth information which reasonably informs MergerCo of the
identity of the stockholder (such as the DBSC Shareholder's name and address
and the number of shares of DBSC Common Stock owned) and a statement that he
intends to demand the appraisal of his shares, must be delivered by the
dissenting DBSC Shareholder to MergerCo at its principal executive offices at
90 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado 80112 within 20 days after the
date of mailing of the Notice.
A demand for appraisal must be executed by or on behalf of the holder of
record, fully and correctly, as such DBSC Shareholder's name appears on the
certificate or certificates representing DBSC Common Stock. A person having a
beneficial interest in DBSC Common Stock that is of record in the name of
another person such as a broker, fiduciary or other nominee, must act
promptly to cause the record holder to follow the steps summarized herein
properly and in a timely manner to perfect whatever Appraisal Rights are
available. If DBSC Common Stock is owned of record by a person other than the
beneficial owner, including a broker, fiduciary (such as a trustee, guardian
or custodian) or other nominee, such demand must be executed by or for the
record owner. If DBSC Common Stock is owned of record by more than one
person, as in a joint tenancy or tenancy in common, such demand must be
executed by or for all joint owners. An authorized agent, including an agent
for two or more joint owners, may execute the demand for appraisal for a
stockholder of record; however, the agent must identify the record owner and
expressly disclose the fact that, in exercising the demand, such person is
acting as agent for the record owner.
A record owner, such as a broker, fiduciary or other nominee, who holds
DBSC Common Stock as a nominee for others, may exercise Appraisal Rights with
respect to the shares held for all or less than all beneficial owners of
shares as to which such person is the record owner. In such case, the written
demand must set forth the number of shares covered by such demand. Where the
number of shares is not expressly stated, the demand will be presumed to
cover all DBSC Common Stock outstanding in the name of such record owner.
Within 120 days after the Effective Time of the Merger, MergerCo or a
dissenting DBSC Shareholder who has complied with the DGCL and who is
otherwise entitled to appraisal rights, may file a petition in the Court
demanding a determination of the fair value of the DBSC Common Stock.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time within 60 days after the Effective
Time of the Merger, any DBSC Shareholder shall have the right to withdraw his
demand for appraisal and to accept the Merger Consideration. Within 120 days
after the Effective Time of the Merger, any DBSC Shareholder who has complied
with DGCL shall, upon written request, be
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entitled to receive from MergerCo a statement setting forth that aggregate
number of shares not voted in favor of the Merger with respect to which
demands for appraisal have been received and the aggregate number of holders
of such shares. Such statement shall be mailed to such DBSC Shareholder
within 10 days after his written request for the statement is received by
MergerCo or within 10 days after the expiration of the period for delivery of
demands for appraisal.
Upon the filing of the petition with the Court, service of a copy shall be
made upon MergerCo which shall within 20 days after such service file in the
office of the Register of Chancery a duly verified list of the names and
addresses of the DBSC Shareholders demanding appraisal and with whom
agreements as to the value of their shares have not been reached. The
Register of Chancery shall give notice of the time and place fixed for the
hearing of such petition by registered or certified mail to the DBSC
Shareholders demanding appraisal and to MergerCo. Notice shall also be given
by at least one publication at least one week before the day of the hearing.
At the hearing, the Court will determine the DBSC Shareholders who have
complied with the DGCL and who have become entitled to appraisal rights.
After determining the DBSC Shareholders entitled to an appraisal, the Court
will appraise the DBSC Common Stock, determining its fair value exclusive of
any element of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the
Merger, together with the fair rate of interest, if any, to be paid upon the
amount determined to be fair value. In determining such fair value, the Court
will take into consideration all relevant factors. The Court will direct the
payment of the fair value of the shares together with any interest to the
DBSC Shareholders entitled thereto. The costs of any appraisal proceeding may
be determined by the Court and assessed to the parties as the Court deems
equitable in the circumstances.
A DBSC Shareholder who has exercised his appraisal rights will not be
entitled to vote, to receive dividends or to exercise any other rights of a
DBSC Shareholder, other than the right to receive payment for his DBSC Common
Stock under the DGCL, and his DBSC Common Stock shall not be considered
issued and outstanding for the purposes of any subsequent vote of DBSC
Shareholders. If the surviving corporation complies with the requirements of
the DGCL, any DBSC Shareholder who fails to comply with the requirements of
the DGCL will not be entitled to bring suit for the recovery of the value of
his shares or money damages.
The right of any dissenting DBSC Shareholder to be paid the fair value of
his DBSC Common Stock will cease and his status as a DBSC Shareholder will be
restored if: (i) a written withdrawal by the dissenting DBSC Shareholder is
sent to MergerCo at any time within 60 days after the Effective Time of the
Merger; or (ii) a court of competent jurisdiction determines that the DBSC
Shareholder is not entitled to exercise dissenters' rights. After the
consummation of the Merger, if the right of the DBSC Shareholder to be paid
the fair value of his shares of DBSC Common Stock has ceased and his rights
as a DBSC Shareholder have been restored, such rights will consist solely of
the right to receive the Cash Value of the Merger Consideration or the cash
payments in lieu of fractional shares to be paid the DBSC Shareholders
pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement.
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THE MERGER
THE PLAN AND AGREEMENT OF MERGER AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED
THEREBY ARE SUMMARIZED BELOW. THIS SUMMARY SETS FORTH ALL MATERIAL ELEMENTS
OF THE PLAN AND AGREEMENT OF MERGER AND SUCH TRANSACTIONS BUT DOES NOT
PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE
COMPLETE TEXT OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT, REPRINTED WITH SELECTED EXHIBITS AS
ANNEX I TO THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT -- PROSPECTUS. ALL CAPITALIZED TERMS
USED HEREIN, UNLESS OTHERWISE DEFINED HEREIN, SHALL HAVE THE DEFINITIONS
ASCRIBED TO THEM IN THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE MERGER
The cost to develop, construct and launch a commercial DBS business
requires a substantial capital commitment. DBSC Management's principal goal
since DBSC's incorporation in 1981 has been to attract one or more suitable
investors or partners to provide such working capital. However, DBSC's
attempts to raise capital have been extremely difficult, principally because
of widespread skepticism about the viability of DBS as an industry and
uncertainty about how many participants, if any, could reasonably anticipate
profitable operations from DBS. Management of DBSC has sought investment from
industry participants, various cable companies, programmers, high-tech
companies, investment banks, private citizens, international media firms,
venture capitalists and others. Management's search for strategic or other
investors has been time-consuming, expensive and only moderately successful.
In part these difficulties are attributable to FCC delays in processing
DBSC's filings. Prior to DBSC's agreements with EchoStar, DBSC had been
successful in obtaining financing, or commitments to provide financing, for
only approximately $2.5 million, substantially below DBSC's long-term capital
requirements of $500 to $600 million.
In April 1990, DBSC entered into the DBSC Satellite Contract with
Lockheed Martin and began making periodic progress payments under the
Contract. As of October 1994 these payments totalled approximately $314,000.
In order for DBSC to maintain its DBS authorizations, the FCC required that
the first DBSC satellite be launched no later than August 1995, and the DBSC
Satellite Contract required delivery of a completed satellite for launch
prior to that date. DBSC's liabilities during this period continued to
increase, representing long overdue notes, bills for legal and accounting
services and other expenses. As of March 31, 1994, DBSC had total liabilities
of approximately $2.9 million and available cash of approximately $34,000.
EchoStar and DBSC initially explored common business interests in early
1994. However, EchoStar did not pursue the contact at that time. Thereafter,
EchoStar entered into an agreement to acquire DirectSat Corporation
("DirectSat") through a merger (the "DirectSat Merger"), and successfully
completed the 1994 Notes offering. During late 1994, DirecTV and USSB
launched their DBS service and public interest in DBS accelerated sharply. At
the same time, DBSC's financial position was further deteriorating. In
connection with the transaction with DirectSat, EchoStar had purchased many
of DBSC's liabilities from SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET"), the parent of
DirectSat, and was demanding immediate payment from DBSC of in excess of $3.0
million. When early negotiations to settle this claim were unsuccessful,
EchoStar filed suit against DBSC. While DBSC believed it had substantial
defenses to the suit, it had no cash or other resources to pay its existing
or future legal expenses. In addition, DBSC was unable to pay even minor
administrative expenses.
The DBSC Board was therefore faced with a major lawsuit involving
potential damages in excess of $3.0 million, plus significant capital
expenditures representing other immediate obligations, including a scheduled
progress payment to Lockheed Martin under the DBSC Satellite Contract.
However, DBSC did not have existing cash or other resources adequate to
satisfy these obligations. In addition, due to delays at the FCC, and
resulting delays in entering the construction phase of the DBSC Satellite
Contract, DBSC was no longer in a position to launch its first satellite by
August 1995, and was facing the necessity of seeking FCC permission to extend
the launch deadline, a request that would have required the renegotiation of
the DBSC Satellite Contract to substantially extend the delivery date. As a
result, DBSC believed it would be desirable to have sufficient cash resources
to assure that the renegotiated contract would provide for acceleration of
the construction phase of the DBSC Satellite Contract so that the delay in
completion could be coupled with an immediate and significant boost in DBSC's
financial commitment to the construction of the satellite.
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During the late summer of 1994, EchoStar renewed its interest in DBSC,
discussing with DBSC's Management the strategic synergies that might exist
between the two companies. EchoStar expressed its willingness to consider a
wide variety of potential arrangements with DBSC, including a merger. At the
time of EchoStar's discussions with DBSC, DBSC had no immediate prospects for
obtaining necessary short-term financing other than a proposed private equity
offering. However, DBSC was unable to obtain a commitment to attempt to raise
more than approximately $1.0 million and there were no assurances regarding
when the offering would be commenced, and if commenced, whether the offering
could be successfully consummated. At the DBSC Board's direction, Management
pursued certain earlier preliminary discussions with potential investors to
determine whether there were any other serious and imminent prospects for
obtaining necessary working capital and, as in prior instances, found that
the level of interest in entering into a transaction with DBSC was low.
The DBSC Board and EchoStar therefore explored a range of options that
contemplated an investment by EchoStar in DBSC. The DBSC Board considered
that a relatively modest infusion of working capital from EchoStar, while it
might solve certain short-term capital requirements, was not an attractive
long-term solution for DBSC because the necessity for a meaningful commitment
to construct its satellites could not be postponed and such construction
typically requires substantial cash payments. Moreover, the DBSC Board felt
that EchoStar was a highly desirable investor because of its demonstrated
commitment to the DBS industry and prior record of success in the DTH
business. After considering its alternatives, and taking into consideration
the factors set forth above, the DBSC Board concluded that a merger with
EchoStar was in the best interests of DBSC Shareholders, by allowing such
Shareholders to participate in the potential substantial opportunities
presented by EchoStar resulting from the Merger.
The Merger Consideration was determined by taking into consideration a
number of factors. With respect to EchoStar, such factors included the August
1994 public offering of EchoStar Common Stock to employees of Donaldson,
Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation for approximately $11.82 (as
adjusted as a result of a reorganization of EchoStar in June 1995) a share.
With respect to DBSC, such factors included: (i) the fact that the most
recent sales of DBSC Common Stock were at prices ranging from $2.00 to $4.00
per share; (ii) the valuation of DirectSat in connection with the DirectSat
Merger was approximately $10.0 million before deducting liabilities, and
while DirectSat and DBSC were substantially comparable in terms of the
development of their respective DBS businesses, the 10 channels assigned to
DirectSat at 119DEG. WL were substantially more valuable than the 11
channels assigned to DBSC at 61.5DEG. WL; and (iii) the substantial amount
of DBSC's liabilities. DBSC did not retain an investment banker to render a
fairness opinion or otherwise advise the DBSC Board as to the fairness of the
Merger Consideration to the DBSC Shareholders. The failure to obtain such an
opinion was based principally on the fact that DBSC lacked the financial
resources to retain an investment banker. Nonetheless, in the view of the
DBSC Board and based on the factors listed above, the Merger Consideration
was fair to DBSC Shareholders.
After extensive negotiation, DBSC and EchoStar entered into a Stock
Purchase Agreement in November 1994 whereby EchoStar purchased 500,000 shares
of DBSC Common Stock for $2.96 million. The purpose of this purchase was to
provide DBSC with sufficient funds to pay its current liabilities, to make
substantial payments under the DBSC Satellite Contract and to provide
necessary funds for future operations. The Stock Purchase Agreement also
provided for the settlement of EchoStar's lawsuit against DBSC by the
issuance to EchoStar of 83,250 shares of DBSC Common Stock. As a result of
these issuances, EchoStar currently owns 644,990 shares of DBSC Common Stock,
representing approximately 39.8% of the issued and outstanding shares of DBSC
Common Stock.
Pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement, EchoStar was also granted an
option, exercisable under certain circumstances and subject to certain
conditions, to purchase additional shares of DBSC Common Stock, thereby
providing EchoStar with certain rights even if the Merger had not occurred.
The Stock Purchase Agreement also included as an exhibit the form of
Merger Agreement. Upon the occurrence of certain events set forth in the
Stock Purchase Agreement, either EchoStar or DBSC could have required
execution of the Merger Agreement. EchoStar agreed to the initial investment
in DBSC only if it could be assured, if it so desired, that it could cause
DBSC to execute the Merger Agreement, thereby affecting the
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consummation of the Merger (subject to FCC Approval and approval of the
Merger by the holders of a majority of the DBSC Shareholders). DBSC
determined that it also needed the right to require the execution of the
Merger Agreement, and the Stock Purchase Agreement provided DBSC with such
right, exercisable by DBSC following FCC approval of the DirectSat Merger.
Since the date that DBSC executed the Merger Agreement, the price of each
share of EchoStar Common Stock has increased from $19.12 per share to $28.50
per share , which represents the closing price of a share of EchoStar Common
Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market System on September 13, 1996.
DESCRIPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The Merger Agreement provides that, at the Effective Time of the Merger
DBSC will be merged with MergerCo in accordance with the DGCL. At that time:
(i) the separate corporate existence of DBSC will cease; (ii) each share of
the issued and outstanding DBSC Common Stock, other than shares held by
EchoStar and those to which Appraisal Rights have been perfected, will be
converted into, at the election of each DBSC Shareholder, either the Share
Value or the Cash Value ("Cash Elections"); and (iii) MergerCo, as the
surviving corporation, will remain in existence as a wholly owned subsidiary
of EchoStar. In the event that the number of shares of DBSC Common Stock to
be exchanged for cash, together with the number of shares of DBSC Common
Stock with respect to which appraisal rights have been reserved and any cash
required to be paid in settlement of any fractional shares, exceed 50% of the
total number of shares of DBSC Common Stock issued and outstanding (other
than those owned by EchoStar), then each Cash Election shall be reduced pro
rata so that the total cash paid in connection with the Merger will not
exceed 50% of the aggregate Merger Consideration, and the stock portion of
the Merger Consideration payable to each affected DBSC Shareholder will be
correspondingly increased.
ADJUSTMENTS TO MERGER CONSIDERATION. In the event that, on a date
mutually acceptable to EchoStar and DBSC for closing the Merger (the "Closing
Date"): (i) DBSC's liabilities exceed Permitted Liabilities, as defined in
the Merger Agreement, and EchoStar elects to proceed with the Merger
notwithstanding such excess; (ii) any liabilities are asserted against DBSC
which are alleged to have arisen on or before March 31, 1995, but which are
not shown in DBSC's financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31,
1994 (the "Financial Statements"); or (iii) any rights are asserted pursuant
to which the holder thereof is entitled to acquire shares of DBSC Common
Stock ("Existing Equity Rights"), which rights are not disclosed in a
schedule to the Stock Purchase Agreement ("Additional Equity Rights"), the
Cash Value or the Share Value, as applicable, shall be reduced (in the event
an adjustment is necessary as a result of clauses (i) or (ii) above) by the
percentage obtained from the quotient of "x" divided by $7,785,184, where "x"
is equal to the amount by which DBSC's liabilities exceed Permitted
Liabilities, plus the amount (not to exceed $5.0 million) of any liabilities
set forth in clause (ii) above. In the event the liabilities set forth in
clause (ii) above exceed $7.0 million, EchoStar may, at its option, either
consummate the Merger and assume such liabilities, or terminate the Merger
Agreement. In the event an adjustment is necessary as the result of clause
(iii) above, the Share Value or the Cash Value, as applicable, shall be
reduced by the percentage obtained from the quotient of "x"/"y" where "x" is
the total number of shares of DBSC Common Stock which would be issued
pursuant to all Additional Equity Rights in the aggregate and "y" is the
total number of shares of DBSC Common Stock issued and outstanding, excluding
shares of DBSC Common Stock held by EchoStar.
Based upon the best information available, the final per share Merger
Consideration offered for each share of DBSC Common Stock exchanged in the
Merger will be either $7.99 in cash or .67417 shares of EchoStar Common
Stock, subject to certain limitations and adjustments as set forth in the
Plan and Agreement of Merger, valued at approximately $19.21 based on the
market closing price of the EchoStar Common Stock of $28.50 on September
13, 1996. If the final per share Merger Consideration materially differs from
this estimate, this Information Statement -- Prospectus will be recirculated
and DBSC Shareholders will be provided with an adequate period to consider
alternatives, including Appraisal Rights.
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RESTRICTIONS ON RESALE. Shares of EchoStar Common Stock received by DBSC
Shareholders in connection with the Merger will not be eligible for resale,
transfer or disposal until 90 days after the effective date of the Merger.
Certificates representing such shares will bear a restrictive legend setting
forth the restrictions prohibiting such sale, transfer or disposal during the
90 day period. In the event the Merger is determined to be a taxable
transaction to DBSC Shareholders, the 90 day resale restrictions will lapse
with respect to 50% of the shares of EchoStar's Common Stock received by DBSC
shareholders. In addition, in order to preserve the intended tax-free
treatment of the Merger to DBSC shareholders, Harley W. Radin, the President
and Chief Executive Officer of DBSC, DBSI and Kingswood, Inc., all
significant DBSC Shareholders, have represented that they have no present
intention to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of more than approximately
44% of their shares of EchoStar Common Stock received in connection with the
Merger.
TREATMENT OF FRACTIONAL SHARES. No fractional shares of EchoStar Common
Stock will be issued in connection with the Merger. If as a result of a DBSC
Shareholder's election to receive the Share Value in lieu of the Cash Value,
a fractional share would otherwise be issued, cash shall be paid to the
holder of such interest in lieu of a fractional share. The cash paid in lieu
of such fractional share shall be equal to such fractional interest
multiplied by the value of a share of EchoStar Common Stock as of the
Effective Time. Any cash required to be paid to a DBSC Shareholder in lieu of
fractional shares shall be paid promptly following the Effective Time of the
Merger upon surrender of the certificate or certificates representing the
shares of DBSC Common Stock held by the DBSC Shareholder.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The Merger Agreement contains
representations and warranties made by DBSC to EchoStar and MergerCo (the
"EchoStar Companies"), and representations and warranties made by the
EchoStar Companies to DBSC, which are typical of agreements of this type.
Such representations and warranties are made as of December 21, 1995, when
the Merger Agreement was signed, and will be deemed to have been made as of
the Effective Time of the Merger.
DBSC represents and warrants the number of shares of each class of its
capital stock which are authorized and which are issued and outstanding, the
due organization, good standing and corporate power of DBSC, the due
authorization and execution of the Merger Agreement and the fact that the
execution, delivery and performance of that agreement will not violate any of
the charter documents, contracts or other types of obligations of DBSC. DBSC
further represents and warrants that its execution of the Merger Agreement
and consummation of the Merger will not violate any law, require any consent
or approval, except FCC Approval, which approval has now been received, and
approval of the DBSC Shareholders, which approval has been received, or
result in the acceleration of any of its obligations or the creation of any
lien on its assets, except as disclosed in the schedules to the Merger
Agreement. It also represents and warrants that its Financial Statements are
a fair representation of its financial position as of the date thereof and
were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles on
a basis consistent with prior periods, and that, other than approximately
$300,000 in liabilities, since the date of the Financial Statements, DBSC has
incurred no liabilities other than Permitted Liabilities.
DBSC also represents and warrants that it has paid all taxes which are
payable by it, has properly reserved on its Financial Statements for taxes
expected to be payable by it, has filed all required tax returns and has
received no notices of any tax deficiencies. DBSC further represents and
warrants that, since the date of the Financial Statements, DBSC has not
suffered any adverse change in working capital, financial condition, assets,
liabilities or in the business or prospects of DBSC other than approximately
$300,000 of liabilities in the aggregate and Permitted Liabilities. DBSC also
represents that it has been awarded by the FCC a conditional construction
permit and specific orbital slot assignments with respect to 11 DBS
frequencies located at 61.5DEG. WL, and 11 DBS frequencies located at
175DEG. WL (the "DBS Rights"). DBSC further represents that, except as set
forth in the Merger Agreement, it is in full compliance with all FCC Due
Diligence
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Requirements to the best of its knowledge. DBSC also makes other
representations and warranties which are typical of transactions such as that
contemplated by the Merger Agreement.
The Merger Agreement provides for the EchoStar Companies to make similar
representations and warranties to DBSC with respect to the due organization
and existence of such corporations, their capitalization, their power and
authority to conduct their business, the authorization and valid and binding
nature, with respect to each of them, of the Merger Agreement. The EchoStar
Companies also represent to DBSC that no defaults have occurred under the
1994 Indenture which entitle the holders thereof to accelerate the 1994
Notes. The EchoStar Companies also make other representations and warranties
which are typical of transactions such as that contemplated by the Merger
Agreement.
COVENANTS. The Merger Agreement contains certain covenants of DBSC and
the EchoStar Companies which are typical of agreements of this type. DBSC
covenants that, through the Effective Time of the Merger, it will carry on
its business diligently and in the ordinary course. It also covenants that it
will maintain its DBS Rights free and clear of all liens, charges or
encumbrances. DBSC further covenants to satisfy (provided it has available
funds) each and every liability which accrued subsequent to August 3, 1987
(other than Permitted Liabilities so that at the Effective Time of the Merger
there shall exist absolutely no liabilities of DBSC other than Permitted
Liabilities). In the event that DBSC liabilities exceed Permitted Liabilities
at the Effective Time of the Merger, EchoStar may elect to satisfy such
liabilities by adjusting the Merger Consideration. See "The Merger --
Description of the Merger." Prior to the Effective Time of the Merger, DBSC
is also prohibited from: (i) issuing any shares of DBSC Common Stock, or any
securities convertible into such shares, other than pursuant to Existing
Equity Rights; (ii) selling or otherwise transferring or encumbering any of
its material assets, including the DBS Rights; (iii) incurring any obligation
or liability, other than Permitted Liabilities; (iv) entering into any
agreements with third parties relating to certain transactions; (v) paying
any dividends; or (vi) conducting any business other than as required
pursuant to certain contracts and as is otherwise necessary in the ordinary
course of business. DBSC is further required to use its best efforts to
comply with all FCC Due Diligence Requirements, and to take certain actions,
and to refrain from taking certain actions, which are typical of transactions
such as that contemplated by the Merger Agreement.
EchoStar is prohibited in the Merger Agreement from negotiating with any
DBSC Shareholders to purchase their DBSC Common Stock; provided, however,
that, under certain circumstances, EchoStar is not prohibited from accepting
a pledge of DBSC Common Stock from any DBSC Shareholder as security for the
repayment of obligations of such DBSC Shareholder to EchoStar. EchoStar is
also required to take certain actions, and to refrain from taking certain
actions, which are typical of transactions such as that contemplated by the
Merger Agreement.
CONDITIONS OF THE MERGER. The Merger Agreement specifies that the
obligations of each of the parties to consummate the Merger are contingent
upon the occurrence of certain conditions precedent. However, the Merger
Trigger Agreement, which was executed by DBSC, EchoStar and MergerCo
contemporaneously with the execution of the Merger Agreement, specifies that
the only remaining conditions to the consummation of the Merger are that FCC
Approval must be received and the Merger must be approved by DBSC
Shareholders. DBSC Shareholders owning in excess of 82% of the issued and
outstanding DBSC Common Stock approved the Merger by written consent on
December 21, 1995, therefore satisfying the shareholder approval requirement.
FCC Approval of the Merger was obtained on August 30, 1996. Pursuant to the
Merger Trigger Agreement, however, any party may refuse to consummate the
Merger if any other party willfully and in bad faith acts, or fails to act,
in a manner that materially impedes the consummation of the Merger in
material compliance with the terms agreed to by the parties.
TERMINATION. Subject to the Merger Trigger Agreement, the Merger
Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective Time of the
Merger upon the mutual consent of DBSC and the EchoStar Companies. The
Closing of the Merger is to occur as soon as is practicable when all
requisite clearances, approvals, authorizations and consents have been
obtained and the conditions to the obligation of each of the parties to close
have been met, but is to occur in no event later than December 31, 1997,
unless extended by mutual agreement of the parties.
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EFFECTIVE TIME. On the Closing Date, the parties will file a Certificate
of Merger with the Secretary of State of the States of Colorado and Delaware
to consummate the Merger. Upon the filing and acceptance of such Certificates
of Merger, the Merger shall become effective.
THE MERGER TRIGGER AGREEMENT
Contemporaneous with execution of the Merger Agreement, the parties
executed the Merger Trigger Agreement. Pursuant to the Merger Trigger
Agreement, the parties agreed, among other things: (i) to execute the Merger
Agreement; (ii) to consummate the Merger without preconditions other than FCC
Approval, which approval was obtained on August 30, 1996, and approval by
DBSC Shareholders, which approval was obtained on December 21, 1995 by
written consent of DBSC Shareholders owning in excess of 82% of DBSC Common
Stock issued and outstanding; (iii) to enter into the Loan Agreements; and
(iv) that, in the event the Merger is not completed for any reason, the
parties would enter into the Substitute DBSC Transaction, as more
particularly described below. Under the terms of the Loan Agreements,
EchoStar agreed to purchase $16.0 million in principal amount of promissory
notes of DBSC and, in EchoStar's sole and absolute discretion, up to an
additional $134.0 million principal amount of promissory notes, the proceeds
from which are to be used by DBSC to make required payments to Lockheed
Martin under the DBSC Satellite Contract and to make deposits for launch
reservations. As security for repayment of all obligations of DBSC to
EchoStar under the Loan Agreements, DBSC granted EchoStar a first priority
security interest in all assets of DBSC, whether then existing or thereafter
acquired, including by way of example, and not by limitation, the DBS Rights
and DBSC's satellites under construction by Lockheed Martin. EchoStar
purchased $16.0 million principal amount of promissory notes on December 21,
1995, and an additional $2.5 million on each of February 20, 1996, March 11,
1996, March 27, 1996, May 1, 1996, June 3, 1996 , July 8, 1996, August 5,
1996 and September 3, 1996. Each of the promissory notes accrues interest at
a rate, per annum, equal to the prime rate of interest charged by Chase
Manhattan Bank on the date the applicable promissory note was executed, plus
three percent.
For purposes of the Merger Trigger Agreement, a "Substitute DBSC
Transaction" is a transaction or series of transactions that will have the
effect of providing to DBSC Shareholders, as nearly as is possible, the cash
amount or number of shares of EchoStar Common Stock they would have received
if the Merger had been consummated, and which provides EchoStar, as nearly as
is possible, the benefits that would have accrued to EchoStar had the Merger
been completed, for as nearly as is possible, the total Cash Value or Share
Value that EchoStar would have provided to the DBSC Shareholders had the
Merger been completed. EchoStar intends to seek FCC approval of any
Substitute DBSC Transaction, if FCC approval is required. However, there are
no assurances that EchoStar could obtain FCC approval of a Substitute DBSC
Transaction.
In order to carry out the intent of the parties in the event the Merger
is not consummated, the Merger Trigger Agreement further provides that: (i)
EchoStar shall have the right to convert any amounts owed it by DBSC pursuant
to the Loan Agreements to the right to receive from DBSC, in perpetuity,
profits of DBSC in accordance with formula "x/(x + $12,945,104)", where "x"
is equal to the aggregate amount, including accrued but unpaid interest, due
to EchoStar under the Loan Agreements at the time of conversion; and (ii) the
parties will enter into a Capacity Lease Agreement to provide EchoStar with,
subject to certain limitations, including compliance with FCC rules and
regulations and, if required, FCC Approval, the full and unfettered use of
DBSC's satellites, including its communications capacity, TT&C, uplink
arrangements and auxiliary or related functions or activities.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION APPROVAL
DBSC filed an application for assignment of authorization with the FCC
on February 6, 1996. On March 15, 1996, one opposition to the Merger was
filed at the FCC by The Consumer Project on Technology ("CPT"), a public
interest advocacy group. CPT contended in its objection that the Merger would
permit EchoStar to acquire a dominant and anticompetitive position in the DBS
marketplace by aggregating an excessive number of DBS channels. A series
of letters objecting
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to the Merger were also filed subsequently by the CPT and another public
interest group. These letters raised the same issues as the CPT's earlier
objection. FCC Approval of the Merger was obtained on August 30, 1996.
However, CPT may seek reconsideration, full FCC review or judicial review of
the grant of the Merger application.
MECHANICS OF EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES
Each DBSC Shareholder shall make an election whether to receive the Cash
Value or the Share Value on the Election Form delivered herewith. The
Election Form must be returned to the Exchange Agent at its principal offices
at 1825 Lawrence Street, Suite 444, Denver, Colorado 80202, by 5:00 p.m. on
, 1996. As soon as practicable after the Effective Time of the
Merger, the Exchange Agent will mail to DBSC Shareholders instructions for
surrendering their stock certificates in exchange for the Merger
Consideration. Except for cash payments in lieu of fractional shares and to
the extent DBSC Shareholders make Cash Elections, the Merger Consideration
will be paid in EchoStar Common Stock.
Upon the surrender of certificates, EchoStar will promptly cause to be
paid to the persons entitled thereto the Merger Consideration. No interest
will be paid or will accrue on any amount payable upon the surrender of any
certificate. After the Effective Time of the Merger, certificates which
previously represented issued and outstanding shares of DBSC Common Stock
will represent solely the right to receive the Merger Consideration
multiplied by the number of shares previously represented thereby. Prior to
the surrender of certificates, EchoStar may, at its option, refuse to pay any
dividends or other distributions with respect to EchoStar Common Stock;
provided, however, that upon surrender of such certificate, there shall be
paid to the DBSC Shareholders electing to receive the Share Value the amount,
without interest, of dividends and other distributions payable with respect
to EchoStar Common Stock, if any, which have become payable with respect to
the EchoStar Common Stock and which have not previously been paid.
To be eligible to qualify as a tax-free reorganization for federal income
tax purposes, no more than 50% of the aggregate Merger Consideration may be
paid in cash. Accordingly, if the amount of cash payable in order to give
full effect to all Cash Elections, to satisfy the exercise of any dissenters'
rights and in settlement of fractional shares, would exceed 50% of the
aggregate Merger Consideration, then each Cash Election will be reduced pro
rata so that the total cash paid will not exceed 50% of the aggregate Merger
Consideration, and the stock portion of the Merger Consideration payable to
each affected DBSC Shareholder will be correspondingly increased.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
The Merger will be accounted for by EchoStar under the "purchase" method
of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Therefore, the aggregate consideration paid by EchoStar in connection with
the Merger will be allocated to DBSC's assets based on their fair values, and
the results of operations of DBSC will be included in the results of
operations of EchoStar only for periods subsequent to the Effective Time of
the Merger.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
THE MERGER. The following discussion describes the principal federal
income tax consequences that are expected to result from the Merger and
certain transactions associated therewith.
DBSC and EchoStar expect the Merger to be a tax-free reorganization for
federal income tax purposes so that no gain or loss will be recognized by
DBSC Shareholders upon the exchange of DBSC Common Stock for
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EchoStar Common Stock in the Merger, except with respect to cash received in
lieu of fractional shares of EchoStar Common Stock. Sullivan & Worcester LLP,
counsel to DBSC, has advised DBSC as follows:
(i) the Merger will constitute a "reorganization" within the meaning of
Sections 368(a)(1)(A) and 368(a)(2)(D) of the Code; and
(ii) the exchange in the Merger of DBSC Common Stock for EchoStar Common
Stock will not result in the recognition of gain or loss to the DBSC
Shareholders with respect to such exchange.
Revenue Procedure 86-42 sets forth the representations required by the
Internal Revenue Service in connection with a request for a ruling that a
transaction will constitute a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section
368 of the Code. It is assumed that DBSC, EchoStar and MergerCo can make the
representations required by the Internal Revenue Service in connection with a
request for a ruling that the Merger would constitute a "reorganization"
within the meaning of Sections 368(a)(1)(A) and 368(a)(2)(D) of the Code.
Some of the more significant of such assumptions include:
(i) There is no plan or intention by the DBSC Shareholders to sell,
exchange, or otherwise dispose of a number of shares of EchoStar Common Stock
received in the Merger that would reduce the DBSC Shareholders' ownership of
EchoStar Common Stock to a number of shares having a value as of the date of
the Merger, of less than 50 percent of the value of all of the formerly
outstanding DBSC Common Stock as of the same date (including, for this
purpose, shares of DBSC Common Stock exchanged for cash or other property, or
exchanged for cash in lieu of fractional shares of EchoStar Common Stock);
(ii) The Merger will be effected pursuant to the Colorado Business
Corporation Act;
(iii) MergerCo will acquire at least 90% of the fair market value of the
net assets and at least 70% of the fair market value of the gross assets held
by DBSC immediately prior to the transaction. For purposes of this
assumption, amounts paid by DBSC to dissenters, amounts paid by DBSC to
shareholders who receive cash or other property, DBSC's assets used to pay
its reorganization expenses, and all redemptions and distributions (except
for regular, normal dividends) made by DBSC immediately preceding the
transfer, will be included as assets of DBSC held immediately prior to the
transaction;
(iv) EchoStar has no present plan or intention to liquidate MergerCo; to
merge MergerCo into another corporation; to sell or otherwise dispose of the
stock of MergerCo; or to cause MergerCo to sell or otherwise dispose of any
of the assets of DBSC, except for dispositions in the ordinary course of
business or transfers permitted by Section 368(a)(2)(C) of the Code, and
except for transfers not now contemplated which are caused by material
changes in EchoStar's business; and
(v) Following the Merger, MergerCo will continue the historic business of
DBSC or use a significant portion of DBSC's assets in a business, unless DBSC
loses its direct broadcast satellite authorization.
If any of the factual assumptions to be made become inaccurate, EchoStar
will take such steps as it deems reasonable and appropriate to notify
recipients of this Information Statement -- Prospectus of such inaccuracy. In
addition, the risk that the Merger would be held taxable increases and
Sullivan & Worcester LLP may have to modify or withdraw its opinion as to the
federal tax consequences of the Merger.
No ruling from the Internal Revenue Service concerning the tax
consequences of the Merger has been requested. If the Merger is consummated,
but does not qualify as a tax-free reorganization under the Code, each DBSC
Shareholder would recognize taxable gain or loss in the Merger equal to the
difference between the Merger Consideration, including the fair market value
of the EchoStar Common Stock, that he received and his tax basis in his DBSC
Common Stock. If the Internal Revenue Service determines that the Merger does
not qualify as a tax-free reorganization, presumably the Internal Revenue
Service will notify DBSC Shareholders of such determination. However, when
and if EchoStar is apprised of a successful challenge by the Internal Revenue
Service of the treatment by a DBSC Shareholder of the Merger as a
"reorganization," EchoStar will take such
43
<PAGE>
steps as it deems reasonable and appropriate to notify all of the recipients
of EchoStar Common Stock pursuant to the Merger of such determination.
If the Merger qualifies as a tax-free reorganization, the tax basis of
the EchoStar Common Stock received in the Merger by a DBSC Shareholder who
receives solely EchoStar Common Stock (including any fractional share of
EchoStar Common Stock that any such DBSC Shareholder may be deemed to
receive) in the Merger will be the same as the tax basis of such DBSC
Shareholder in the DBSC Common Stock exchanged for such EchoStar Common
Stock. The tax basis of the EchoStar Common Stock received by a DBSC
Shareholder who receives both EchoStar Common Stock and cash (other than cash
in lieu of a fractional share of EchoStar Common Stock) will equal the tax
basis of such DBSC Shareholder in the DBSC Common Stock exchanged, decreased
by the amount of cash received and increased by the amount of gain recognized
in the exchange. Cash received in the Merger by a DBSC Shareholder in lieu of
a fractional share of EchoStar Common Stock will be treated under Section 302
of the Code as having been received in exchange for such fractional share,
and the DBSC Shareholder generally will recognize capital gain or loss in
such exchange equal to the difference between the cash received and the DBSC
Shareholder's tax basis allocable to the fractional share exchanged for cash.
The federal income tax treatment of a DBSC Shareholder who elects under
the Merger Agreement and receives cash for his DBSC Common Stock will depend
upon such DBSC Shareholder's particular circumstances. Under the position
taken by the Internal Revenue Service in published rulings, cash received by
a DBSC Shareholder who receives solely cash in the Merger will be treated as
having been received by such DBSC Shareholder in a redemption of his DBSC
Common Stock subject to Section 302 of the Code. It is likely that such DBSC
Shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference
between the amount of cash received and such DBSC Shareholder's tax basis in
his DBSC Common Stock.
In connection with the intended tax-free treatment of the Merger, DBSC
Shareholders who own approximately 90% of DBSC Common Stock (excluding DBSC
Common Stock owned by EchoStar) have represented that they have no present
intention to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of more than approximately
44% of the EchoStar Shares received in connection with the Merger by those
DBSC Shareholders.
A DBSC Shareholder who exchanges his DBSC Common Stock for a combination
of EchoStar Common Stock and cash (other than cash received in lieu of a
fractional share of EchoStar Common Stock) will realize gain equal to the
excess, if any, of the fair market value of the EchoStar Common Stock and
cash received over such DBSC Shareholder's tax basis in his DBSC Common
Stock. This realized gain will be recognized, however, only in an amount that
does not exceed the amount of cash received. It is likely that this
recognized gain will be taxable to such DBSC Shareholder as capital gain,
although it is possible that this recognized gain will be taxable as dividend
income if such DBSC Shareholder's Cash Election does not result in a
"meaningful reduction" in the percentage ownership of EchoStar Common Stock
that such DBSC Shareholder otherwise would have received (taking into account
both his actual ownership and constructive ownership under the constructive
ownership rules of Section 318 of the Code). No loss realized by a DBSC
Shareholder who receives both EchoStar Common Stock and cash in the Merger
will be recognized.
THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX DISCUSSION SET FORTH ABOVE IS INCLUDED FOR GENERAL
INFORMATION ONLY. DBSC SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX
ADVISERS AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER TO THEM, INCLUDING
INCOME TAX RETURN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF
STATE, LOCAL AND OTHER TAX LAWS.
COMPARISON OF SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS
If the Merger is consummated, DBSC Shareholders will become
stockholders of EchoStar, which is a Nevada corporation, and their rights as
such stockholders will be governed by applicable Nevada corporation law
("NCL"), and by the Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws of EchoStar
(the "EchoStar Articles " and the "EchoStar By-Laws", respectively). Although
it is not practical to compare all of the differences between DGCL and the
NCL, and between the EchoStar Articles and the EchoStar By-Laws and the
Certificate of Incorporation
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<PAGE>
and By-Laws of DBSC (the "DBSC Certificate" and the DBSC By-Laws",
respectively), the following is a summary of the material differences between
the rights of DBSC Shareholders and the rights of holders of EchoStar Common
Stock.
BUSINESS COMBINATION LEGISLATION
Under the DGCL, except under certain circumstances, a Delaware
corporation is prohibited from entering into specified business combinations
with an "Interested Stockholder" for the period of three years after such
person becomes an "Interested Stockholder." The DGCL defines an Interested
Stockholder to be a person or entity who has beneficial ownership of 15% or
more of the outstanding voting stock of a Delaware corporation. This
provision encourages a potential acquiror to negotiate with a company's board
of directors, and makes more difficult an acquisition of a Delaware
corporation that is not approved by its board of directors.
The NCL contains provisions relating to business combinations with
an "Interested Stockholder" similar to the DGCL except that under the NCL, an
"Interested Stockholder" is defined as a person or entity who has beneficial
ownership of 10% or more of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation.
See "Description of Capital Stock -- Nevada Law and Limitations on Changes in
Control."
APPRAISAL/DISSENTERS' RIGHTS
Stockholders of a Delaware corporation generally have appraisal
rights with respect to a merger or consolidation. Such appraisal rights are
not available (i) when a corporation is to be the surviving corporation and
no vote of its stockholders is required for the Merger or (ii) for shares of
stock which, on the record date fixed to determine the stockholders entitled
to receive notice of and vote on the agreement of merger, are listed on a
national securities exchange, designated as a national market system security
on an interdealer quotation system by the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc., or held of record by more than 2,000 stockholders, unless, in
case of clauses (i) or (ii) above, such stockholders are required by the
terms of the merger to accept consideration other than shares of stock of the
surviving corporation, shares of stock of another corporation that are so
listed, designated or held by such number of record holders, cash in lieu of
fractional shares of such stock, or any combination thereof. A Delaware
corporation may provide in its certificate of incorporation for appraisal
rights in connection with transactions other than mergers and consolidations.
The NCL provides appraisal rights with respect to mergers under
circumstances similar to those provided for in the DGCL, except that the NCL
specifies that the merger be one for which stockholder approval is required
by NCL Section 92A.120 to 92A.160 or by the articles of incorporation, and
that the dissenting stockholder is entitled to vote on the merger or if the
corporation is a subsidiary and is merged with its parent under NCL Section
92A.180.
In addition, the NCL provides that shareholders may exercise their
right to dissent from and obtain payment for shares in the event of: a share
exchange, if the corporation is the party whose shares will be acquired, and
if the dissenting shareholder is entitled to vote on the exchange; any
corporate action taken pursuant to a shareholder vote, where appraisal rights
are provided to voting or nonvoting shareholders in the articles of
incorporation, the bylaws, or a resolution of the board of directors; and a
proposal to increase or decrease the number of authorized shares of stock, if
certain shareholders otherwise entitled to receive a fraction of a share must
instead accept money or scrip.
For a description of the procedures for asserting appraisal rights
of dissenting DBSC Shareholders under the DGCL, see "Rights of Dissenting
Shareholders."
SPECIAL MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS; NOTICE PROVISIONS
The EchoStar By-Laws provide that special meetings of stockholders
of EchoStar may be called by the Board of Directors, the President, or the
holders of at least one-third of all shares entitled to vote at the meeting.
Notice of the special meeting and the business to be conducted thereat is to
be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting not less than
ten nor more than sixty days before the meeting.
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<PAGE>
The DBSC By-Laws provide that special meetings of DBSC Shareholders
may be called by the Board of Directors or the Chairman, and must be called
by the Chairman or the Secretary on the written request of the holders of at
least ten percent of the outstanding stock entitled to vote at the meeting.
Notice of DBSC's special meetings and the business to be conducted thereat is
to be given to each DBSC Shareholder entitled to vote at such meeting not
less than ten days before the meeting. The DBSC By-Laws could be amended
under the DGCL to provide for not less than ten nor more than sixty days
notice comparable to the DGCL and the NCL. Under the EchoStar By-Laws, at
least thirty days notice must be given for a meeting to increase authorized
capital stock. The DBSC By-Laws have no comparable provision.
ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT
Under the DGCL, stockholders may take action without a meeting,
provided a written consent setting forth the action so taken is signed by the
holders of the minimum number of shares required to take such action at a
meeting.
The EchoStar Bylaws provide that Shareholders may take action
without a meeting if such action is set forth in a written consent. However,
such consent must be signed by all of EchoStar's shareholders entitled to
vote with respect to the subject matter.
DIRECTORS: NUMBER, FILLING VACANCIES, REMOVAL
The EchoStar By-Laws provide that the number of directors
constituting the Board of Directors shall be not less than three nor more
than nine, which number shall be fixed by resolution of the Board or
stockholders. Any director or the entire Board may be removed from office at
a meeting called for the express purpose of removing directors, with or
without cause, by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the
shares entitled to vote at an election of directors. Any vacancy occurring in
the EchoStar's Board of Directors may be filled by vote of a majority of the
remaining directors, except that a directorship to be filled due to an
increase in the number of directors is to be filled by the vote of a majority
of the directors then in office or by election at an annual meeting, or a
special shareholders' meeting.
The DBSC By-Laws provide that the number of directors constituting
the Board shall be five. Under the DBSC By-Laws, any director may be removed,
with or without cause, at a meeting specifically called for that purpose by
the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares
entitled to vote at an election of directors. Any vacancy occurring in DBSC's
Board may be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining
directors.
LOANS TO AND GUARANTEES OF OBLIGATIONS OF OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES
Under the DGCL, a loan to, guarantee of an obligation of, or other
assistance to an officer or employee of the corporation, including any
officer or employee who is a director, requires the determination of the
Board of Directors of the corporation that the loan, guarantee or assistance
may reasonably be expected to benefit the corporation. The NCL contains no
comparable provision, although it provides that directors exercising their
powers may consider, inter alia, the interests of the employees and the
long-term as well as the short-term interests of the corporation and its
stockholders. Under the EchoStar By-Laws, a loan to, guarantee of an
obligation of, or other assistance to a director, officer or employee of the
corporation must comply with the NCL and be authorized by resolution of the
Board of Directors.
Under the DGCL, any contract or transaction (including a loan or
guarantee) between the corporation and any of its officers or directors, or
between the corporation and any other organization in which the corporation's
directors or officers are also directors or officers, or have a financial
interest, is voidable unless approved by a majority of the disinterested
directors or the shareholders after full disclosure of the material facts or
if the transaction is fair to the corporation at the time it is approved. The
NCL has a similar requirement except that such transactions may be approved
by the majority vote of stockholders holding a majority of the voting power,
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and such transactions are also permissible if the fact of the common
directorship, office or financial interest is not disclosed or known to the
director or officer when the transaction is brought before the board for
action.
AUTHORIZED CAPITAL STOCK
The authorized capital stock of EchoStar is substantially different
from that of DBSC. The Common Stock of EchoStar is divided into Class A
Common Stock, Class B Common Stock and Class C Common Stock. Each holder of
Class A Common Stock is entitled to one vote per share and votes together
with Class B and Class C Common Stock, as well as with the Preferred Stock.
Each holder of Class B Common Stock is entitled to ten votes per share. Each
holder of Class C Common Stock is entitled to one vote per share. Upon a
Change in Control (as defined herein), each holder of Class C Common Stock is
entitled to ten votes per share. Each share of Class B and Class C Common
Stock is convertible, `at the option of the holder, into one share of Class A
Common Stock. Currently, there are no shares of Class C Common Stock
outstanding. All shares of DBSC Common Stock are identical and have one vote.
Neither EchoStar nor DBSC has granted any preemptive rights to its
shareholders. In addition, the number of EchoStar's authorized but unissued
shares of Class A, Class B and Class C Common Stock and Preferred Stock is
substantially greater than the number of shares already issued. EchoStar
could issue shares of its capital stock in an amount which would
substantially dilute the voting power of EchoStar's shareholders without
obtaining shareholder approval of such issuances. See "Description of Capital
Stock."
DIVIDENDS
The DGCL permits corporations to pay dividends out of surplus, or
if there is no surplus, out of net profits for the fiscal year in which the
dividend is declared, or out of the net profits for the preceding fiscal
year. Under the NCL distributions are conditioned on a two-tier test: the
equity solvency test and the net value test. These tests prohibit a
distribution if, after making the distribution, (1) the corporation would not
be able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of business,
or (2) the corporation's total assets would be less than the sum of its total
liabilities plus the amount that would be needed, if the corporation were to
be dissolved at the time of the distribution, to satisfy the preferential
rights upon dissolution of shareholders whose preferential rights are
superior to those receiving the distribution.
PRICE RANGE OF ECHOSTAR CLASS A COMMON STOCK
The EchoStar Class A Common Stock has been quoted on the
NASDAQ/National Market System under the symbol "DISH" since June 20, 1995.
The following table sets forth, for the indicated fiscal periods, the high
and low bid information for the EchoStar Class A Common Stock as reported by
NASDAQ.
HIGH LOW
---- ---
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1995
First quarter................................. N/A N/A
Second quarter............................... $18 $14-1/4
Third quarter................................ 17 12
Fourth quarter............................... 25-3/4 12-1/4
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1996
First quarter................................ 40-1/2 20
Second quarter............................... 36-1/2 27-3/4
On September 13, 1996, the high and low bid information for the
EchoStar Class A Common Stock as reported by NASDAQ/National Market System
was $28.75 and $27.75, respectively. As of such date, there were
approximately 1,454 holders of record of the EchoStar Class A Common Stock.
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<PAGE>
DIVIDEND POLICY
Since the December 31, 1993 corporate reorganization, EchoStar has not
paid any dividends on common stock. EchoStar presently intends to retain
future earnings to support the growth of its business and therefore does not
intend to pay any dividends in the near future. The payment of any dividends
will be determined by the Board of Directors in light of conditions then
existing, including EchoStar's earnings, financial requirements and other
factors. EchoStar's ability to pay dividends is dependent upon results of
operations. In addition, the 1994 Indenture restricts the amount available
for dividends on the capital stock of Dish, Ltd. as well as the ability of
Dish, Ltd. to loan or otherwise distribute funds to EchoStar. In addition,
the 1996 Indenture restricts the ability of EchoStar to pay dividends. See
"Description of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes" and "-- 1996 Notes."
Since its inception, DBSC has had no earnings and has paid no dividends.
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<PAGE>
CAPITALIZATION
The following table sets forth as of June 30, 1996: (i) the unaudited
consolidated capitalization of EchoStar on a historical basis; (ii) the
unaudited consolidated capitalization of DBSC on a historical basis; and
(iii) the unaudited pro-forma consolidated capitalization of EchoStar after
giving effect to the proposed merger of EchoStar and DBSC. The historical
EchoStar information in this table is derived from the supplemental unaudited
Consolidated Financial Statements of EchoStar for the six months ended June
30, 1996, and should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and EchoStar's
Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto included elsewhere in
this Information Statement -- Prospectus. The historical DBSC information in
this table is derived from the supplemental unaudited Financial Statements of
DBSC for the six months ended June 30, 1996, and should be read in
conjunction with DBSC's Financial Statements and the Notes thereto included
elsewhere in this Information Statement -- Prospectus (in thousands).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT JUNE 30, 1996
-----------------------------
DBSC AS ADJUSTED
ECHOSTAR ACTUAL ACTUAL FOR MERGER
--------------- ------ ----------
(UNAUDITED) (UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment
securities........................................ $342,933(1) $ 77 $343,010
--------- ---------- ---------
--------- ---------- ---------
Long-term obligations (excluding current portion):
Long-term deferred programming revenue........... $ 4,163 $ -- $ 4,163
Mortgages and note payable....................... 36,337 28,500(2) 36,337
1994 Notes, net.................................. 408,449 -- 408,449
1996 Notes, net.................................. 361,742 -- 361,742
Accrued interest................................. -- 1,260(3) --
--------- ---------- ---------
Total long-term obligations.................... 810,691 29,760 810,691
--------- ---------- ---------
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred Stock, 20,000,000 shares authorized,
1,616,681 shares of Series A Cumulative Preferred
Stock issued and outstanding, including accrued
dividends of $2,745,000......................... 17,797 -- 17,797
Common Stock, $0.01 par value, 3,000,000 shares
authorized, 1,620,138 shares issued and
outstanding..................................... -- 16 --
Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value,
200,000,000 shares authorized, 10,750,667 shares
issued and outstanding.......................... 108 -- 115(5)
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Class B Common Stock, $0.01 par value,
100,000,000 shares authorized, 29,804,401 shares
issued and outstanding.......................... 298 -- 298
Common Stock Purchase Warrants (4)................. 20 -- 20
Class C Common Stock, 100,000,000 shares
authorized, none outstanding.................... -- -- --
Additional paid-in capital......................... 153,095 5,849 165,287(5)
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale
securities, net of deferred taxes................. 122 -- 122
Retained earnings (deficit)........................ (43,916) (4,391) (43,916)
---------- ---------- ---------
Total stockholders' equity..................... 127,524 1,474 139,723
---------- ---------- ---------
Total capitalization........................... $938,215 $ 31,234 $950,414
---------- ---------- ---------
---------- ---------- ---------
</TABLE>
________________________
(1) Includes $183.3 million of cash restricted under the 1994 and 1996
Indentures pursuant to which EchoStar issued its 1994 Notes and 1996
Notes, respectively. Also included is $15.0 million and $15.5 million of
restricted cash in escrow accounts related to the manufacture of
EchoStar Receiver Systems and for the purpose of cash collateralizing
certain standby letters of credit, respectively.
(2) Represents DBSC's $28.5 million note payable to EchoStar.
(3) Represents accrued interest on DBSC's $28.5 million note payable to
EchoStar.
(4) Represents the value assigned to the Warrants issued on June 7, 1994 for
those Warrants outstanding at June 30, 1996.
(5) Reflects the fair value of 658,000 shares of EchoStar Class A Common
Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger, based on the 10-day
average closing price of EchoStar Class A Common Stock as of December
28, 1995 of $18.54. The average share price used in this calculation
represents the average price of EchoStar's Class A Common Stock for the
five days immediately preceding and immediately following December 21,
1995, the date which EchoStar and DBSC entered into a Plan and Agreement
of Merger.
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ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS RELATES TO THE CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS
CORPORATION, AND SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND NOTES THERETO INCLUDED ELSEWHERE IN THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT --
PROSPECTUS.
OVERVIEW
EchoStar currently operates four related businesses: (i) operation of the
DISH Network-SM- and continued development of the EchoStar DBS System; (ii)
design, manufacture, marketing, installation and distribution of DTH products
worldwide; (iii) domestic distribution of DTH programming; and (iv) consumer
financing of EchoStar's domestic products and services. The growth of DBS
service and equipment sales has had and will continue to have a material
negative impact on EchoStar's domestic sales of C-band DTH products; however
this negative impact has been more than offset for the six months ended June
30, 1996 by sales of EchoStar Receiver Systems. During March 1996 EchoStar
began broadcasting and selling programming packages available from the DISH
Network-SM-. EchoStar expects to derive its revenue principally from monthly
fees from subscribers to DISH Network-SM- programming and, to a lesser extent,
from the sale of EchoStar Receiver Systems. As sales of EchoStar DBS
programming and receivers increase, EchoStar expects the decline in its sales
of domestic C-band DTH products to continue at an accelerated rate.
EchoStar generally bills for DISH Network-SM- programming periodically in
advance and recognizes revenue as service is provided. Revenue is a
function of the number of subscribers, the mix of programming packages
selected and the rates charged, and transaction fees for ancillary
programming activities and satellite usage time agreements. DBS programming
costs will generally be based upon the number of subscribers to each
programming offering. From time to time EchoStar may engage in promotional
activities that include discounted rates for limited periods, which will
result in lower average revenue per subscriber for the applicable periods.
Beginning in June 1996, EchoStar began marketing a special promotion in a
limited number of markets pursuant to which consumers were able to purchase
a discounted EchoStar Receiver System under the condition the consumer
commits to subscribe and prepay for DISH Network-SM- programming service for a
minimum of one year. Under this promotion the consumer is able to purchase
the discounted EchoStar Receiver System and prepay the annual programming
package for as low as $499. The primary purposes of the promotion were to
expand retail distribution, build awareness of the DISH Network-SM- brand and
rapidly build a subscriber base. Due to positive retailer and consumer
results, among other factors, effective August 1, 1996, EchoStar began a
nationwide rollout of the promotion. While this promotion will significantly
increase EchoStar's investment in its subscriber base, EchoStar believes that
the increase in subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- and the corresponding
increase in DBS programming revenue in future periods, resulting from this
promotion, will be more than sufficient to recover the investment in
subscriber acquisition costs.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage
of total revenues represented by certain revenue and expense items in
EchoStar's Statements of Income.
SIX MONTHS
ENDED
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
----------------------- -----------
1993 1994 1995 1995 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(UNAUDITED)
Statement of Income Data:
Revenue:
DTH products and technical services:
Domestic......................... 69% 58% 54% 50% 65%
International.................... 24 32 36 39 20
Programming........................... 5 8 9 10 11
Loan origination and participation
income............................... 2 2 1 1 4
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Total revenue............... 100 100 100 100 100
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Expenses:
DTH products and technical services... 73 70 73 71 79
Programming........................... 4 6 8 9 7
Selling, general and administrative... 14 16 22 19 26
Depreciation and amortization......... 1 1 2 1 8
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Total expenses.............. 92 93 105 100 120
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Operating income (loss).................... 8% 7% (5)% 0% (20)%
Net income (loss).......................... 9% 0% (7)% (5)% (26)%
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA..................................... 9% 8% (3)% 1% (11)%
THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996 COMPARED TO THREE AND SIX MONTHS
ENDED JUNE 30, 1995
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REVENUE. Total revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996
was $73.5 million and $115.0 million, respectively, an increase of $34.2
million, or 87%, and $35.3 million, or 44%, respectively, as compared to
total revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 1995 of $39.3
million and $79.7 million, respectively. Revenue from domestic sales of DTH
products for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 was $50.9
million and $74.9 million, respectively, an increase of $31.5 million, or
163%, and $35.0 million, or 88%, respectively, as compared to the same
periods in 1995. The increase in domestic revenue was primarily due to $43.5
million and $51.7 million in revenue from the sale of EchoStar Receiver
Systems during the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively.
There were no EchoStar Receiver System sales during the comparable periods
in 1995. The increases in domestic revenue were principally offset by a
decrease of $4.7 million, or 50%, and $9.6 million, or 50%, in revenue from
sales of C-band satellite receivers and related accessories, during the three
and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, as compared to the same
periods in 1995. Additionally, domestic revenue generated from satellite
receivers sold for a competitor's DBS system ("Competitor DBS Receivers")
decreased approximately $5.8 million, or 98%, and $4.8 million, or 37%, for
the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, compared to the
same periods in 1995. Revenue from Competitor DBS Receiver sales was $114,000
and $8.0 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996,
respectively, as compared to $5.9 million and $12.8 million for the same
periods in 1995. The increases in domestic revenue were also partially offset
by a decrease of $2.4 million, or 61%, and $3.6 million, or 53%, in revenue
from sales of non-proprietary descrambler modules, during the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996, as compared to the same periods in 1995. The
domestic market for C-band DTH products continued to decline during the three
and six months ended June 30, 1996, and this decline will continue with the
growth of DBS service and equipment sales. Consistent with the increases in
revenue noted above, EchoStar has experienced a corresponding increase in
trade accounts receivable at June 30, 1996, and expects this trend to
continue with the nationwide rollout of the promotion discussed above.
Domestically, EchoStar sold approximately 110,000 and 155,000 satellite
receivers in the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, an
increase of 323% and 193%, respectively, as compared to approximately
26,000 and 53,000 satellite receivers, respectively, for the same periods in
1995. Although there was an increase in the number of satellite receivers
sold in 1996 as compared to 1995, overall revenue did not increase
proportionately as a result of a substantial shift in product mix to lower
priced DBS receivers and related accessories, and an approximate 15%
reduction in the average selling price of C-band satellite receivers.
Included in the number of satellite receivers sold for the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996 are approximately 103,000 and 120,000,
respectively, EchoStar Receiver Systems. EchoStar Receiver System revenue
represented approximately 59% and 45%, respectively, of total revenue for
the three and six months ended June 30, 1996.
Also included in the number of satellite receivers sold for the three
and six months ended June 30, 1996 are approximately 300 and 19,000,
respectively, Competitor DBS Receivers as compared to 10,000 and 21,000,
respectively, for the same periods in 1995. During the six months ended
June 30, 1996, the Competitor DBS Receivers were sold at an approximate 28%
reduction in the average selling price as compared to the six months ended
June 30, 1995. Competitor DBS Receiver revenue represented less than 1% and
approximately 7% of total revenue for the three and six months ended June
30, 1996, respectively. EchoStar's agreement to distribute Competitor DBS
Receiver systems terminated on December 31, 1995 and during the first half
of 1996, EchoStar sold all of its existing inventory of Competitor DBS
Receivers. The elimination of Competitor DBS Receiver inventory has been
more than offset by a
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substantial increase in inventory of EchoStar Receiver Systems and related
components, the sale of which has more than offset the elimination of
revenue derived from the sale of Competitor DBS Receivers.
In future periods, domestic DTH product revenue will be primarily generated
from the sale of EchoStar Receiver Systems and, to a lesser extent, sales of
C-band DTH products and related accessories. Beginning in June 1996, EchoStar
began marketing a special promotion in a limited number of markets pursuant
to which consumers were able to purchase a discounted EchoStar Receiver
System under the condition the consumer commits to subscribe and prepay for
DISH Network-SM- programming service for a minimum of one year. The primary
purposes of the promotion were to expand retail distribution, build awareness
of the DISH Network-SM- brand and rapidly build a subscriber base. Due to
positive retailer and consumer results, among other factors, effective August
1, 1996, EchoStar began a nationwide rollout of the promotion. During the
promotional period, EchoStar will recognize significantly less DTH product
revenue and expense related to EchoStar Receiver Systems sold pursuant to
this promotion. Instead, EchoStar will capitalize the difference between the
direct costs of the EchoStar Receiver System and the related revenue
generated from these sales. This difference will be deferred and will be
amortized over the expected minimum life of the subscriber. EchoStar believes
that the revenue generated from sales of DISH Network-SM- programming in future
periods, resulting from this promotion, will more than offset the investment
in subscriber acquisition costs.
DISH Network-SM- programming revenue was $5.6 million and $6.0 million for
the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively. Since EchoStar
did not begin broadcasting and selling programming packages available on the
DISH Network-SM- service until March 1996, there was no DISH Network-SM-
programming revenue generated during the comparable periods in 1995. As of
September 10, 1996, EchoStar had approximately 155,000 subscribers to DISH
Network-SM- programming.
C-band programming revenue was $3.2 million and $6.6 million for the
three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, a decrease of
$623,000, or 16%, and $1.0 million, or 14%, compared to the same periods in
1995. The decrease is attributable to the industry-wide decline in domestic
C-band equipment sales and the related decline in C-band DTH programming
revenue. This decline in C-band equipment sales and the related programming
revenue is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. The expected
decline in C-band DTH programming revenue in 1996 has been more than offset
by sales of DISH Network-SM- programming.
Loan origination and participation income for the three and six months
ended June 30, 1996 was $4.3 million and $5.1 million, respectively, an
increase of $3.7 million, or 653%, and $4.3 million, or 511%, respectively,
compared to the same periods in 1995. The increase in loan origination and
participation income for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 was
primarily due to increased finance volume, including the financing of
EchoStar Receiver Systems and the availability of more comprehensive
financing terms to EchoStar subscribers.
Revenue from international sales of DTH products for the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996 was $9.5 million and $22.3 million, respectively,
a decrease of $6.0 million, or 39%, and $8.9 million, or 29%, respectively,
as compared to the same periods in 1995. The decrease is directly
attributable to a decrease in the number
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of analog satellite receivers sold combined with decreasing margins on
products sold. Internationally, EchoStar sold approximately 51,000 and
126,000 analog satellite receivers during the three and six months ended
June 30, 1996, a decrease of 46% and 30%, respectively, compared to
approximately 94,000 and 181,000 units sold during the same periods in 1995.
Overall, EchoStar's international markets for analog DTH products declined
during the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 as anticipation for new
international digital services continues to increase. This international
decline in demand for analog satellite receivers is similar to the decline
which has occurred in the United States and was expected by EchoStar. To
offset this anticipated decline in demand for analog satellite receivers,
EchoStar has been negotiating with digital service providers to distribute
their proprietary receivers in EchoStar's international markets. While
EchoStar is actively pursuing these distribution opportunities, no assurance
can be given that such negotiations will be successful.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Costs of DTH products sold were $57.5 million and
$90.3 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996,
respectively, an increase of $30.2 million, or 110%, and $33.5 million, or
59%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 1995. The increase
in DTH operating expenses for 1996 resulted primarily from the increase in
sales of DTH products. Operating expenses for DTH products as a percentage of
DTH product revenue were 95% and 93% for the three and six months ended June
30, 1996, respectively, compared to 79% and 80% for the same periods in 1995,
respectively. This increase was principally the result of declining sales
prices of C-band DTH products and Competitor DBS Receivers as described
above, during the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 as compared to
the same periods in 1995.
In future periods, the costs of domestic DTH products sold will be
primarily related to the sale of EchoStar Receiver Systems and, to a lesser
extent, sales of C-band DTH products and related accessories. Beginning in
June 1996, EchoStar began marketing a special promotion in a limited number
of markets pursuant to which consumers were able to purchase a discounted
EchoStar Receiver System under the condition the consumer commits to
subscribe and prepay for DISH Network-SM- programming service for a minimum of
one year. The primary purposes of the promotion were to expand retail
distribution, build awareness of the DISH Network-SM- brand and rapidly build a
subscriber base. Due to positive retailer and consumer results, among other
factors, effective August 1, 1996, EchoStar began a nationwide rollout of the
promotion. During the promotional period, EchoStar will recognize
significantly less DTH revenue and expense related to EchoStar Receiver
Systems sold pursuant to this promotion. Instead, EchoStar will capitalize
the difference between the direct costs of the EchoStar Receiver System and
the related revenue generated from these sales. This difference will be
deferred and will be amortized over the expected minimum life of the
subscriber.
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The costs of DISH Network-SM- programming were $1.7 million and $1.8
million for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively.
Since EchoStar did not begin broadcasting and selling programming packages
available on the DISH Network-SM- service until March 4, 1996, there were no
DISH Network-SM- programming expenses incurred during the comparable periods in
1995. DISH Network-SM- programming costs as a percentage of DISH Network-SM-
programming revenue were 30% and 29% for the three and six months ended June
30, 1996, respectively.
The costs of C-band programming were $2.9 million and $6.1 million for
the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, a decrease of
$512,000, or 15%, and $766,000, or 11%, respectively, as compared to the same
periods in 1995. This decrease is mainly attributable to the decrease in
C-band programming revenue. C-band programming expenses as a percentage of
C-band programming revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996
were 90% and 91%, respectively, as compared to 89%, for each of the
respective periods in 1995. The increase in C-band programming expenses as a
percentage of C-band programming revenue was principally the result of
declining sales prices of C-band programming. As previously discussed, the
domestic market for C-band DTH products has continued to decline with the
growth of DBS service and equipment sales.
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $19.1 million and $29.8 million for the three
and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, an increase of $11.8
million, or 161%, and $14.6 million, or 96%, respectively, as compared to the
same periods in 1995. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a
percentage of total revenue increased to 26% for each of the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996, as compared to 19% for each of the same periods
in 1995. This increase was principally due to: (i) marketing and advertising
prior to and in conjunction with the introduction of DISH Network-SM- service;
(ii) increased personnel in all areas of the organization to support the DISH
Network-SM-; (iii) costs related to the Digital Broadcast Center, which
commenced operations in the third quarter of 1995; and (iv) costs associated
with operating the DISH Network-SM- Call Center and related services which have
been outsourced. In future periods, EchoStar believes that although selling,
general and administrative expenses will continue to increase, such increase
as a percentage of future revenue will decrease as subscribers are added and
additional revenue from sales of DISH Network-SM- programming is generated.
Research and development costs totaled $1.4 million and $2.6 million for
the three and six months ended June 30, 1996, respectively, as compared to
$1.2 million and $2.5 million for the same periods in 1995. The increase
was principally due to increased research and development costs necessary
to provide digital DBS satellite receivers to domestic and international
markets, principally offset by a reduction in research necessary to provide
C-band receivers to domestic and international markets.
EBITDA. As expected, EchoStar incurred operating losses for the three and
six months ended June 30, 1996. EBITDA for the three and six months ended
June 30, 1996 was a negative $7.6 million and a negative $12.9 million,
respectively, a decrease of $8.8 million and $13.8 million, respectively,
compared to the same periods in 1995. The decrease resulted from the
factors affecting revenue and expenses discussed above. EBITDA represents
earnings before interest income, interest expense net of other income, income
taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is commonly used in the
telecommunications industry to analyze companies on the basis of operating
performance, leverage and liquidity. EBITDA is not intended to represent cash
flows for the period, nor has it been presented as an alternative to
operating income as an indicator of operating performance and should not be
considered in isolation or as a substitute for
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measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles. EchoStar expects to continue to report operating
losses in 1996.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION. Depreciation for the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996 was $6.4 million and $9.8 million, respectively,
an increase of $6.0 million and $9.0 million, respectively, as compared to
$406,000 and $769,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 1995. The
overall increase primarily resulted from depreciation on the Digital
Broadcast Center and EchoStar I which were placed in service during the
fourth quarter of 1995 and the first quarter of 1996, respectively, and the
amortization of subscriber acquisition costs discussed below.
Also included within deprecation and amortization is amortization of
subscriber acquisition costs. For the purpose of attracting subscribers to
the DISH Network-SM-, EchoStar has sponsored certain sales promotions through
independent consumer electronics and satellite retailers. EchoStar
effectively sells its proprietary DBS reception equipment to these retailers
at less than cost under the condition consumers commit to subscribe and
prepay for DISH Network-SM- programming service for a minimum of one year. The
subscriber acquisition costs recorded represent the difference between the
direct costs of the hardware and the revenue generated from the sales of the
hardware. These costs have been deferred and are being amortized over the
expected minimum life of the subscriber, currently estimated to be three
years. Any unamortized investment with respect to subscribers who discontinue
DISH Network-SM- service after one year but before the end of three years, will
be fully amortized to expense at that time. EchoStar believes subscriber
acquisition costs will be recovered through future revenue generated from
sales of DISH Network-SM- programming. Amortization expense of subscriber
acquisition costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 was
approximately $92,000. In future periods, with the nationwide rollout of this
promotion, amortization expense is expected to be of a magnitude which
significantly exceeds historical levels, even if the promotional period is
terminated in the near future.
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE. Other expense for the three and six months
ended June 30, 1996 was $20.6 million and $23.9 million, respectively, an
increase of $17.2 million, or 506%, and $17.6 million, or 281%, respectively,
as compared to the same periods in 1995. The increase in other expense for
the three and six month periods ending June 30, 1996 resulted primarily
from an increase in interest expense resulting from the issuance of the
1996 Notes combined with an increase in discounts on accounts receivable for
EchoStar Receiver Systems and DISH Network-SM- programming which have been
factored without credit recourse to third party financing groups. The
increase was partially offset by an increase in interest income attributable
to an increase in the balance of the escrow, cash and marketable securities
account as a result of proceeds received from the issuance of the 1996 Notes.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES. Income tax benefit for the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996 was $12.1 million and $16.8 million, respectively,
compared to income tax benefit of $835,000 and $2.2 million during the same
periods in 1995. This increase is principally the result of changes in
components of income and expenses discussed above during the three and six
months ended June 30, 1996. EchoStar's deferred tax assets (approximately
$25.5 million at June 30, 1996) relate principally to temporary differences
for amortization of original issue discount on the 1994 and 1996 Notes, net
operating loss carryforwards and various accrued expenses which are not
deductible until paid. No valuation allowance has been provided because
EchoStar currently believes it is more likely than not that these deferred
tax assets will be realized in future periods. If future operating results
differ materially and adversely from EchoStar's current expectations, its
judgment regarding the need for a valuation allowance may change.
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YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
REVENUE. Total revenue for 1995 was $163.9 million, a decrease of $27.1
million, or 14%, as compared to total revenue for 1994 of $191.0 million.
Revenue from domestic sales of DTH products for 1995 was $87.3 million, a
decrease of $24.5 million, or 22%, as compared to 1994. This decrease in
domestic revenues was primarily due to an expected decline of $26.9 million,
or 24%, in revenue from sales of satellite receivers and related accessories,
during 1995, as compared to 1994. The decrease in domestic revenues for 1995
was partially offset by $12.5 million in sales of non-proprietary descrambler
modules compared to $11.0 million in 1994. The domestic market for C-band DTH
products continued to decline during 1995 and this decline is expected to
continue. The decline had been expected by EchoStar as described below.
EchoStar also decreased its emphasis on relatively high cost, low margin
descrambler modules beginning in the second quarter of 1994.
Domestically, EchoStar sold approximately 131,000 satellite receivers in
1995, an increase of 15% as compared to approximately 114,000 receivers sold
in 1994. Although there was an increase in the number of satellite receivers
sold in 1995 as compared to 1994, overall revenues declined as a result of a
change in product mix resulting from the introduction of lower priced DBS
receivers and related accessories, and an approximate 23% reduction in the
average selling price of C-band receivers. Included in the number of
satellite receivers sold are those sold for a competitor's DBS system
("Competitor DBS Receivers") manufactured and supplied by a third party
manufacturer ("Competing DBS Manufacturer") which totaled approximately
67,000 for 1995, as compared to 21,000 for 1994. Competitor DBS Receiver
revenues were $34.0 million for 1995, as compared to $15.0 million for 1994.
Competitor DBS Receiver revenues were 21% of total revenues for 1995.
In the second half of 1994 and throughout 1995, an increasing percentage
of domestic DTH satellite retailers relied on attractive financing packages
to generate sales. During most of 1994, certain of EchoStar's competitors
offered consumer financing that retailers considered more attractive than
financing offered by EchoStar. This competitive financing advantage resulted
in retailers selling competing products rather than EchoStar products and was
partially responsible for the decline in C-band DTH unit sales and revenue.
EchoStar has entered into agreements with two national consumer finance
groups permitting EchoStar to offer what it currently believes to be
competitive financing terms. However, once a retailer chooses an alternative
financing source, it is difficult to recapture that business. While volume
and participation payments increased throughout 1995, loan origination and
participation payments are not expected to reach historic levels in the short
term.
Commencing in 1995, EchoStar stopped receiving monthly participation
payments from Household Retail Services, Inc. ("HRSI") on its loan portfolio,
contributing to a decrease in loan origination and participation income from
1994. Loan origination and participation income for 1995 was $1.9 million, a
decrease of $1.7 million, or 47%, compared to 1994. EchoStar has filed suit
against HRSI for nonpayment of participation revenue, among other things.
EchoStar aggressively markets its current offering of C-band DTH products
by offering competitive pricing and financing in order to minimize the
decline in domestic C-band DTH sales resulting from the increased popularity
of "small dish" equipment. Additionally, EchoStar sold Competitor DBS
Receivers for reception of programming offered by other service providers.
Competitor DBS Receiver sales partially offset the decline in domestic C-band
sales in 1995. The decline is also expected to be offset by sales of
EchoStar's proprietary DBS products commencing in 1996. EchoStar's agreement
to distribute Competitor DBS Receivers terminated on December 31, 1995.
Programming revenue for 1995 was $15.1 million, an increase of $556,000,
or 4%, as compared to 1994. The increase was primarily due to additional
sales of programming packages through retailers and, to a lesser extent, the
renewal and retention of existing customers as a result of more attractive
pricing and more effective marketing. While EchoStar began to more
aggressively market its services in the second quarter of 1995, the
industry-wide decline in domestic C-band equipment sales is expected to
result in a decline in C-band DTH programming revenues as well over time.
EchoStar believes that the decline in C-band DTH programming revenues will be
fully offset by sales of EchoStar DBS programming in 1996.
Revenue from international sales of DTH products for 1995 was $59.6
million, a decrease of $1.4 million, or 2%, as compared to 1994. The decrease
for 1995 resulted principally from reduced sales to the Middle East
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where EchoStar's largest international DTH customer is based. This decline
was partially offset by increased sales in Africa. Revenue from sales of DTH
products in the Middle East suffered beginning in August 1995 as a result of
recently implemented restrictions against imports, and may not return to
historic levels even after import regulations are lifted, the timing of which
cannot be predicted. Historic sales levels may not be reached because of new
digital service planned for the Middle East beginning in the first quarter of
1996. Internationally, EchoStar sold approximately 331,000 satellite
receivers in 1995, an increase of 15%, compared to approximately 289,000
units sold during 1994. The increase was primarily due to a continued
emphasis by EchoStar on lower priced products in 1995 to meet marketplace
demands. For 1995, the effects of volume increases were offset by a 17%
decrease in the average selling price as compared to 1994.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Costs of DTH products sold were $120.2 million for
1995, a decrease of $13.5 million, or 10%, as compared to 1994. The decrease
in DTH operating expenses for 1995 resulted primarily from the decrease in
sales of DTH products. Operating expenses for DTH products as a percentage of
DTH product revenue were 82% for 1995, as compared to 77% for 1994. The
increase was principally the result of declining sales prices of C-band DTH
products as described above, during 1995 as compared to 1994 and the cost of
promotional campaigns.
Operating expenses for programming were $13.6 million for 1995, an
increase of $1.9 million, or 17%, as compared to 1994. Operating expenses for
programming as a percentage of programming revenue were 90% for 1995 as
compared to 80% for 1994. Programming expenses increased at a greater rate
than revenues from programming principally because the prior periods included
the flow through of certain volume discounts. Additionally, the C-band
program packaging business is extremely competitive, which restricts the
ability to pass on contracted affiliation agreement cost increases to
consumers.
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $35.0 million for 1995, an increase of $4.8
million, or 16%, as compared to 1994. Selling, general and administrative
expenses as a percentage of total revenue increased to 22% for 1995 as
compared to 16% for 1994. The change was principally the result of the
reduction of revenues from domestic sales of DTH products and increased costs
to support, among other things, expansion of the EchoStar DTH product
installation network and administrative costs associated with development of
the DISH Network-SM-. In addition, $1.1 million of compensation expense was
recorded with regard to 55,000 shares of Class A Common Stock contributed by
EchoStar to EchoStar's 401(k) plan.
Research and development costs totaled $5.0 million for 1995 as compared
to $5.9 million for 1994. The decrease was principally due to the reduction
in research necessary to provide C-band receivers to domestic and
international markets, partially offset by increased research and development
costs related to digital DBS satellite receivers.
EBITDA. EBITDA for 1995 was a negative $4.9 million, a decrease of $20.4
million, or 132%, as compared to 1994. The decrease resulted from the factors
affecting revenue and expenses discussed above. EBITDA represents earnings
before interest income, interest expense net of other income, income taxes,
depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is commonly used in the
telecommunications industry to analyze companies on the basis of operating
performance, leverage and liquidity. EBITDA is not intended to represent cash
flows for the period, nor has it been presented as an alternative to
operating income as an indicator of operating performance and should not be
considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
DEPRECIATION. Depreciation for 1995 was $3.1 million, an increase of
$815,000, or 36%, as compared to 1994. The overall increase primarily
resulted from depreciation on assets placed in service during the third and
fourth quarters of 1995.
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE. Other expense for 1995 was $9.3 million, a
decrease of $3.5 million, or 27%, as compared to 1994. The difference in
other income and expense for 1995 compared to 1994 resulted primarily from
the amortization of original issue discount and deferred debt issuance costs
of $23.5 million, in 1995,
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and $20.7 million, in 1994, net of capitalized interest, on the 1994 Notes,
which were issued on June 7, 1994. Other expense has been reduced by
investment income on monies deposited in an escrow account (the "1994 Escrow
Account") of $8.8 million for 1995, and $6.5 million for 1994. Interest
capitalized relating to development of the EchoStar DBS System for 1995 was
$25.8 million as compared to $5.7 million for 1994.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES. Income tax benefit for 1995 was $5.7 million
as compared to the income tax provision for 1994 of $399,000. This change is
principally the result of changes in components of income and expenses
discussed above during 1995 and 1994, respectively. EchoStar's deferred tax
assets (approximately $13.9 million at December 31, 1995) relate principally
to temporary differences for amortization of original issue discount on the
1994 Notes and various accrued expenses which are not deductible until paid.
No valuation allowance has been provided because EchoStar currently believes
it is more likely than not that these assets will be realized. If future
operating results differ materially and adversely from EchoStar's current
expectations, its judgment regarding the need for a valuation allowance may
change.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993
REVENUE. Total revenue in 1994 was $191.0 million, a decrease of $30.0
million, or 14%, as compared to total revenue in 1993 of $221.0 million.
Revenue from domestic sales of DTH products in 1994 was $111.8 million, a
decrease of $41.0 million, or 27%, as compared to 1993. Approximately $22.8
million, or 56%, of the decrease was due to a decline in the number of
satellite receivers sold, reduced sales of equipment and accessories
typically sold in conjunction with receivers and lower selling prices for
that equipment. EchoStar also experienced a decrease of $18.2 million in
non-proprietary descrambler module sales during 1994, as compared to 1993.
This decrease in 1994 reflects the impact of higher than normal bulk sales of
modules to customers during 1993. EchoStar decreased its emphasis on sales of
these high cost, low margin products during 1994.
Domestically, EchoStar sold 114,000 receivers in 1994, a decline of 14%,
as compared to 1993. Two of the most important factors responsible for the
decline in EchoStar's satellite receiver sales were the unavailability of
competitive financing and a reduction in inventory as a result of EchoStar's
expectation of a decrease in DTH product sales resulting from the
introduction of DBS.
In 1994, an increasing percentage of domestic DTH satellite retailers
relied on attractive financing packages to generate sales. During most of
1994, certain of EchoStar's competitors offered consumer financing that
satellite retailers considered more attractive than financing offered by
EchoStar. This competitive financing advantage resulted in satellite
retailers selling competing products to their customers rather than EchoStar
products. EchoStar has entered into agreements with two national banks
permitting EchoStar to offer what it presently believes to be competitive
financing terms.
Loan origination and participation income for 1994 was $3.7 million, a
decrease of $170,000, or 4%, as compared to 1993. The decrease resulted from
a decline in loan originations due to EchoStar's competitors offering
retailers financing considered more attractive than financing offered through
EchoStar prior to the new financing agreements entered into by EchoStar. The
decline was partially offset by revenue received from participation in
outstanding balances of EchoStar's financing portfolio during all of 1994.
Commencing in 1995, EchoStar stopped receiving monthly participation payments
on the loan portfolio. See "Business -- Legal Proceedings." Although EchoStar
believes that it has entered into competitive financing arrangements,
EchoStar expects loan origination and participation income to be
substantially reduced in the near term.
EchoStar intends to aggressively market its current offering of C-band
DTH products by offering competitive pricing and financing in order to
minimize the decline in domestic C-band DTH sales. Although no assurances can
be given, EchoStar expects to offset the decline in domestic C-band sales
with sales of its proprietary DBS products upon commencement of its DBS
service in early 1996.
Programming revenue for 1994 was $14.5 million, an increase of $3.7
million, or 34%, as compared to 1993. The increase was primarily due to
increased sales of programming packages through satellite retailers and, to
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a lesser extent, the renewal and retention of existing customers as a result
of more attractive pricing and more effective marketing.
Revenue from international DTH products for 1994 was $60.9 million, an
increase of $7.4 million, or 14%, as compared to 1993. Such increases were
primarily the result of an increase in international consumer demand for DTH
products, especially in the Middle East and the Pacific Rim, in response to
growth in available satellite television programming. EchoStar sold 289,000
satellite receivers internationally during 1994, an increase of 43%, as
compared to 1993. The effects of volume increases were partially offset by a
17% decrease in the average selling price, as compared to 1993, due to an
emphasis by EchoStar on lower priced products in 1994 to meet marketplace
demands.
Although comparative revenues from domestic sales of DTH products
declined in 1994, fourth quarter 1994 total DTH revenues increased
approximately $3.3 million, or 7%, over third quarter 1994 revenues, which
were $6.0 million, or 16% higher than second quarter revenues. As a result of
sales of Competitor DBS Receivers and increased international sales, fourth
quarter DTH revenues of $47.6 million were higher than any other quarter
during 1994. This increase is primarily due to an increase in domestic
receiver sales to 66,000 in the second half of 1994 compared to 48,000 in the
first half of 1994, which reflects the typically higher sales volumes during
the fall season and increased sales of Competitor DBS Receivers.
OPERATING EXPENSES. Costs of DTH products sold were $133.6 million for
1994, a decrease of $27.8 million, or 17%, as compared to 1993. Operating
expenses for DTH products as a percentage of DTH product revenue were 77% and
78% for 1994 and 1993, respectively. The decrease in DTH operating expenses in
1994 resulted primarily from the 42% decrease in non-proprietary descrambler
module sales, which sell at relatively low gross margins.
Operating expenses for programming were $11.7 million for 1994, an increase
of $2.3 million, or 25%, as compared to 1993. Operating expenses for programming
as a percentage of programming revenue in 1994 were 80% as compared to 87% in
1993. Programming revenue increased at a greater rate than operating expenses
for programming principally because of discounts available on wholesale
programming prices as a result of the increased number of subscribers and better
pricing as a result of more favorable programming contracts entered into during
1994.
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $30.2 million in 1994 and 1993. Selling, general
and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenue increased to 16%
for 1994 compared to 14% for 1993. The increase as a percent of total revenue is
principally the result of the reduction of domestic sales of DTH products.
Research and development costs totaled $5.9 million for 1994, as compared
to $5.1 million in 1993. The increase is principally due to additional research
necessary to provide receivers to more international markets and the initial
development of EchoStar DBS receivers. EchoStar expenses research and
development costs as incurred and includes such costs in selling, general and
administrative expenses.
EBITDA. EBITDA for 1994 was $15.5 million, a decrease of $4.4 million, or
22%, compared to 1993. EBITDA was 8% of total revenue for 1994, as compared to
9% of total revenue for 1993. Such decrease resulted from the factors affecting
revenue and expenses discussed above.
DEPRECIATION. Depreciation in 1994 was $2.2 million, an increase of
$566,000, or 34%, as compared to 1993. The increase primarily resulted from
purchases of manufacturing equipment and tooling during 1994 and a full year's
depreciation on equipment and tooling purchased throughout 1993.
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE. Other expense in 1994 was $12.7 million, an
increase of $13.3 million, as compared to 1993. The difference in other
income and expense compared to 1993 resulted primarily from the amortization
of original issue discount and deferred debt issuance costs which totaled
$26.4 million on the 1994 Notes which were issued on June 7, 1994. This
amount was partially offset by $6.5 million of investment income
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in the Escrow Account and capitalized interest of $5.7 million relating to
the development of the EchoStar DBS System.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES. Provision for income taxes for 1994 was
$399,000, an increase of $1.8 million, as compared to 1993. This increase is
principally the result of EchoStar's subsidiaries (other than ESC) terminating
their Subchapter S corporation status effective December 31, 1993. This change
in tax status was recognized by establishing a net deferred tax asset of
$1.9 million on that date for temporary differences between tax basis and
amounts reported in EchoStar's Financial Statements. The 1994 increase in the
current and long term deferred tax asset was $7.3 million, which relates
principally to the deferred deductibility of interest related to the 1994 Notes.
ESC terminated its Subchapter S corporation status effective January 1, 1994.
This change in tax status resulted in EchoStar recognizing federal and state
corporate income taxes for all of 1994.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
EchoStar used approximately $16.7 million for the six months ended June
30, 1996, as compared to $5.7 million used by operations for the same
period in 1995. The cash required for operations for the six months ended
June 30, 1996 was mainly a result of: (i) increases in trade accounts
receivable related to increased sales of EchoStar Receiver Systems; (ii)
increases in DBS receiver inventory; and (iii) increases in other current
assets including prepaid in-orbit insurance on EchoStar I and amounts due
from a consumer financing source, all partially offset by increases in
deferred programming revenue . As EchoStar builds its DISH Network-SM-
subscriber base, negative operating cash flow should be offset by an
increase in revenue attributable to DISH Network-SM- programming. In the
event subscriptions to DISH Network-SM- programming do not meet anticipated
levels or the investment in subscriber acquisition costs continues to
increase beyond planned levels, negative operating cash flow may continue for
a longer period of time and could increase.
Cash flows used by operations were $20.3 million for 1995. Cash flows were
used primarily for purchases of inventory and a $10.0 million DBS inventory
deposit. The increase of approximately $19.7 million in inventory during 1995
principally represents: (i) purchase of integral components for EchoStar
Receiver Systems; (ii) a planned increase in inventory of Competitor DBS
Receivers; and (iii) an increase in international inventory to support expected
international demand. Funds necessary to increase these inventories came from
cash reserves.
Cash flows provided by operations were $24.2 million and $30.2 million for
1994 and 1993, respectively. Cash flows were mainly expended for purchases of
property and equipment in 1994 and 1993, principally in connection with
development of the EchoStar DBS System and for distributions to stockholders of
EchoStar's subsidiaries in 1993. Distributions to stockholders of EchoStar's
subsidiaries were made to pay taxes on S corporation taxable income in 1993.
EchoStar is prohibited from making further dividend payments by the terms of its
debt agreements, except in certain limited circumstances. Cash flows provided by
operations in 1994 were invested in short-term interest-bearing marketable
securities or segregated as restricted cash and marketable securities.
From May 1994 to May 1996, the principal subsidiaries of EchoStar , except
EchoStar Satellite Corporation ("ESC") (the "Borrowers"), were parties to an
agreement with Bank of America Illinois, which provided a revolving credit
facility (the "Credit Facility") for working capital advances and for letters of
credit necessary for inventory purchases and satellite construction payments.
EchoStar does not currently intend to arrange a replacement credit facility.
Instead, EchoStar is using available cash to collateralize its letter of credit
obligations, which historically was the only significant use of the Credit
Facility. At June 30, 1996, EchoStar had cash collateralized $15.5 million of
certain standby letters of credit for trade purchases which is included in
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restricted cash and marketable securities in the accompanying financial
statements.
During June 1994, EchoStar issued 624,000 units consisting of $624.0
million principal amount of the 1994 Notes and 3,744,000 Warrants (representing
2,808,000 shares of EchoStar Class A Common Stock) for aggregate net proceeds of
approximately $323.3 million, which were placed in the 1994 Escrow Account. As
of June 30, 1996, substantially all of the Warrants issued in connection with
the 1994 Notes Offering had been exercised. Through June 30, 1996, $322.9
million had been withdrawn from the 1994 Escrow Account. At June 30, 1996,
approximately $298.0 million of these proceeds had been applied to development
and construction of the EchoStar DBS System and approximately $24.9 million had
been applied to other permitted uses. As of June 30, 1996, approximately $22.9
million remained in the 1994 Escrow Account, which included investment earnings,
and was withdrawn on August 12, 1996 to partially fund insurance costs related
to the launch of EchoStar II.
In March 1996, ESB consummated a private placement of the 1996 Notes. On
April 24, 1996, ESB filed a Registration Statement on Form S-1 under the
Securities Act to exchange the 1996 Notes for publicly registered notes which
was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28,
1996. As of August 1, 1996, all of the outstanding privately placed notes had
been exchanged for the new publicly registered notes. ESB was formed in January
1996 for the purpose of the offering of the 1996 Notes. In connection with
the offering of the 1996 Notes, EchoStar has contributed all of the outstanding
capital stock of its wholly owned subsidiary, Dish, Ltd., to ESB. ESB issued
580,000 notes consisting of $580.0 million principal amount of the 1996 Notes
for aggregate net proceeds of approximately $337.0 million of which $177.3
million was placed in an escrow account and the remaining $159.7 million is
either included in cash and cash equivalents or marketable investment
securities in the accompanying balance sheet at June 30, 1996, or has been
expended for purposes described in the Prospectus related to the offering of the
1996 Notes. Through June 30, 1996, $19.3 million had been withdrawn from an
escrow account for development and construction of EchoStar III and EchoStar
IV. As of June 30, 1996, approximately $160.4 million remained in such
escrow account , which included investment earnings. Subsequent to June 30,
1996, an additional $5.0 million has been withdrawn from such escrow account.
Total cash on hand and marketable investment securities at June 30, 1996 were
approximately $123.4 million. EchoStar guarantees the 1996 Notes on a
subordinated basis.
EchoStar's 1995 equity offering resulted in net proceeds of approximately
$63.0 million. EchoStar's assets at June 30, 1996 included assets purchased
with those proceeds. Substantially all of the proceeds from the Equity Offering
were used: (i) to secure launches for a third and fourth satellite; (ii) to
support, through loans to DBSC, construction of a third satellite; (iii) to
purchase, for $4.0 million, convertible subordinated secured debentures from
DBSI; and (iv) for general corporate purposes, including the down payment for
DBS frequencies purchased at 148DEG. WL at the FCC auction in January 1996,
which will be reimbursed with the proceeds of the 1996 Notes Offering at the
time the final payment for the frequencies is made to the FCC.
EchoStar anticipates expending an additional $60 million in working
capital during the second half of 1996, including the investment in
subscriber acquisition costs. This cash requirement could increase if any of
the following occur, among other things: (i) subscriptions to DISH
Network-SM- programming do not meet anticipated levels; (ii) actual expenses
exceed present estimates; or (iii) investment in subscriber acquisition costs
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continues to increase beyond planned levels. In addition to the working
capital requirements discussed above, during the second half of 1996,
EchoStar expects to expend: (i) approximately $43.4 million in connection
with the launch of EchoStar II (which was partially funded with the remaining
balance of the 1994 Escrow Account subsequent to June 30, 1996); (ii)
approximately $30.7 million for launch insurance on EchoStar II; (iii)
approximately $8.3 million for in-orbit payments to Lockheed Martin on
EchoStar I and EchoStar II; (iv) approximately $38.0 million in connection
with the launch of EchoStar III; (v) approximately $45.0 million for
construction of EchoStar III and EchoStar IV; and (vi) approximately $41.8
million for the purchase of DBS frequencies at 148DEG. WL, which is due to
the FCC five days after EchoStar receives FCC approval for use of these
frequencies. Funds for these expenditures are expected to come from the 1996
Notes Escrow Account and available cash and marketable investment securities.
Beyond 1997, EchoStar will expend approximately $68.1 million on contractor
financing debt related to EchoStar I and EchoStar II. Additionally, EchoStar
has committed to expend approximately $225 million to build, launch and
support EchoStar III and EchoStar IV in 1997 and beyond. In order to
continue to build, launch and support EchoStar III and EchoStar IV beyond the
first quarter of 1997, EchoStar will need additional capital. Even if
EchoStar terminates the construction contracts with Lockheed Martin for the
construction of EchoStar III and EchoStar IV, EchoStar will still need
additional capital as a result of termination penalties contained in the
contracts. There can be no assurances that additional capital will be
available, or, if available, that it will be available on terms favorable to
EchoStar.
EchoStar expects net losses to continue as it builds its subscription
television business, and therefore, absent additional capital, EchoStar expects
negative stockholders' equity to result before December 31, 1997. Although the
negative equity position has significant implications, including, but not
limited to, non-compliance with NASDAQ listing criteria, which could result in
delisting, EchoStar believes this event will not materially affect the
implementation and execution of its business strategy. While EchoStar believes
it will be able to obtain a waiver from NASDAQ and remain listed, no assurance
can be given NASDAQ will grant a waiver. Delisting would result in a decline in
EchoStar's common stock trading market which could potentially depress stock and
bond prices, among other things.
EchoStar has entered into a contract with Lockheed Martin to begin the
construction phase of EchoStar's fourth DBS satellite ("EchoStar IV"). This
contract also contains an option provision which allows EchoStar to instruct
Lockheed Martin to begin the construction phase of a fifth DBS satellite
("EchoStar V"). Contractor financing of $15.0 million will be used for
construction of EchoStar IV. Concurrent with execution of this contract,
EchoStar waived all penalties due from Lockheed Martin for the late delivery of
EchoStar I and EchoStar II.
Subsequent to June 30, 1996, EchoStar and Lockheed Martin amended the
contracts for the construction of EchoStar I and EchoStar II. As collateral
security for contractor financing of EchoStar I and EchoStar II, EchoStar was
required to provide a letter of credit prior to the launch of EchoStar II in
the amount of $10.0 million (increasing to more than $40.0 million by 1999)
and the principal stockholder of EchoStar pledged all of his Preferred Stock
to Lockheed Martin ("Preferred Stock Guarantee"). Under the amended
agreements, EchoStar will issue a corporate guarantee covering all
obligations to Lockheed Martin with respect to the contractor financing for
EchoStar I and EchoStar II. In consideration for the receipt of the
corporate guarantee by EchoStar, Lockheed Martin has agreed to eliminate the
letter of credit requirements, and to release the Preferred Stock Guarantee
in accordance with a specified formula based on the then outstanding
contractor financing debts and the market value of EchoStar's Class A Common
Stock. This transaction has been approved by EchoStar's board of directors
with EchoStar's principal stockholder abstaining from the vote. Additionally,
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EchoStar will issue a corporate guarantee covering all obligations to
Lockheed Martin with respect to the contractor financing for Echostar III and
EchoStar IV.
In addition to the commitments described above, EchoStar has entered into
agreements to purchase DBS satellite receivers and related components for the
EchoStar DBS System. As of June 30, 1996 those purchase order commitments
totaled approximately $402.4 million. At June 30, 1996, the total of all
outstanding purchase order commitments with domestic and foreign suppliers was
approximately $419.2 million. All but approximately $189.2 million of the
purchases related to these commitments are expected to be made during 1996 and
the remainder is expected to be made during 1997. EchoStar expects to finance
these commitments from available cash, marketable investment securities and
sales of its DISH Network-SM- programming.
EchoStar had outstanding $415.7 million and $806.5 million of long-term
debt (including the 1994 and 1996 Notes, deferred satellite contract payments on
EchoStar I and mortgage debt) as of December 31, 1995 and June 30, 1996,
respectively. In addition, because interest on the 1994 Notes is not payable
currently in cash but accrues through June 1, 1999, the 1994 Notes will
accrete by $215.6 million through that date. Similarly, because interest on
the 1996 Notes is not payable in cash but accrues through March 15, 2000, the
1996 Notes will accrete by $218.3 million through that date. Contractor
financing of $28.0 million will be used for EchoStar II. Contractor financing of
$15.0 million will be used for both EchoStar III and EchoStar IV. Interest on
the contractor financing will range between 7.75% and 8.25% and principal
payments are payable in equal monthly installments over five years following the
launch of the respective satellite.
AVAILABILITY OF OPERATING CASH FLOW TO ECHOSTAR
The 1994 and 1996 Notes Indentures impose various restrictions on the
transfer of funds among EchoStar and its subsidiaries. Although the 1996 Notes
are collateralized by the stock of Dish, Ltd., various assets expected to form
an integral part of the EchoStar DBS System (and not otherwise encumbered by the
1994 Notes Indenture), and guarantees of EchoStar and certain of its other
subsidiaries, ESB's ability to fund interest and principal payments on the 1996
Notes will depend on successful operation and the acquisition of an adequate
number of subscribers to the DISH Network-SM- and ESB having access to available
cash flows generated by the DISH Network-SM-. If cash available to ESB is not
sufficient to service the 1996 Notes, EchoStar would be required to obtain cash
from other sources such as issuance of equity securities, new borrowings or
asset sales. There can be no assurance that those alternative sources would be
available, or available on favorable terms, or sufficient to meet debt service
requirements on the 1996 Notes.
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OTHER
1994 AND 1996 NOTES
EchoStar I was successfully launched by Great Wall in December 1995. In the
event of a launch failure of EchoStar II, Dish, Ltd. would first be required
under the 1994 Notes Indenture to make an offer to repurchase one-half of the
then accreted value of the 1994 Notes. In the event that EchoStar does not have
the right to use orbital slot authorizations granted by the FCC covering a
minimum of 21 transponders at a single full CONUS orbital slot, ESB and Dish,
Ltd. will be required to make an offer to repurchase all or a portion of the
outstanding 1996 Notes and 1994 Notes, respectively. Additionally, in the event
that EchoStar DBS Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar, fails to
obtain authorization from the FCC for frequencies purchased at the FCC Auction
in January 1996, or in the event that such authorization is revoked or
rescinded, ESB will be required under the 1996 Notes Indenture to repurchase the
maximum principal amount of the 1996 Notes that may be purchased with the
proceeds of any refund received from the FCC up to $52.3 million.
If the DBSC Merger or similar transaction does not occur on or before
March 1, 1997, ESB will be required to repurchase at least $83.0 million
principal amount of the 1996 Notes. Further, in the event that EchoStar incurs
more than $7.8 million in expenses (as defined in the 1996 Notes Indenture) in
connection with the DBSC Merger, ESB will be required to apply an amount equal
to such expenses minus $7.8 million to an offer to repurchase the maximum
principal amount of the 1996 Notes that may be purchased out of such proceeds.
If any of the above described events were to occur, EchoStar's plan of
operations, including its liquidity, would be adversely affected and its current
business plan could not be fully implemented. Further, EchoStar's short-term
liquidity would be adversely affected in the event of: (i) significant delay in
the delivery of certain products and equipment necessary for operation of the
EchoStar DBS System; (ii) shortfalls in estimated levels of operating cash
flows; or (iii) unanticipated expenses in connection with development of the
EchoStar DBS System.
RECEIVER MANUFACTURERS
EchoStar has agreements with two manufacturers to supply DBS receivers for
EchoStar. Only one of EchoStar's manufacturers has produced a receiver
acceptable to EchoStar. EchoStar has paid the nonperforming manufacturer
$10.0 million and has an additional $15.0 million in an escrow account as
security for EchoStar's payment obligations under that contract. EchoStar has
given this nonperforming manufacturer notice of its intent to terminate their
contract, and therefore, EchoStar is currently dependent on one manufacturing
service for its receivers. The performing manufacturer is presently
manufacturing receivers in sufficient quantities to meet expected demand. If
EchoStar's sole manufacturer is unable for any reason to produce receivers in a
quantity sufficient to meet demand, EchoStar's liquidity and results of
operations may be adversely affected.
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There can be no assurance EchoStar will be able to recover all amounts paid
the nonperforming manufacturer or otherwise held in escrow.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Information Statement - Prospectus of EchoStar contains statements
which constitute forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A
of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended. Those statements appear in a number of places in this Information
Statement -Prospectus and include statements regarding the intent, belief or
current expectations of EchoStar with respect to, among other things: (i)
EchoStar's financing plans; (ii) trends affecting EchoStar's financial
conditions or results of operations; (iii) EchoStar's growth strategy; (iv)
EchoStar's anticipated results of future operations; and (v) regulatory
matters affecting EchoStar. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such
forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and
involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ
materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result
of various factors.
EFFECTS OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for Impairment Of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of" ("SFAS No. 121"). EchoStar
has adopted SFAS No. 121 in the first quarter of 1996 and its adoption has not
had a material impact on EchoStar's financial position, results of operations or
cash flows.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS No. 123"), issued by FASB in October 1995 and
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995, encourages, but
does not require, a fair value based method of accounting for employee stock
options or similar equity instruments. It also allows an entity to elect to
continue to measure compensation cost under Accounting Principles Board Opinion
No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB No. 25"), but requires
pro forma disclosures of net income and earnings per share as if the fair value
based method of accounting had been applied. EchoStar intends to continue to
measure compensation cost under APB No. 25 and to comply with the pro forma
disclosure requirements. Therefore, this statement has had no impact on
EchoStar's results of operations.
IMPACT OF INFLATION; BACKLOG
Inflation has not materially affected EchoStar's operations during the past
three years. EchoStar believes that its ability to increase charges for products
and services in future periods will depend primarily on competitive pressures.
EchoStar does not have any material backlog of its products.
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ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
BUSINESS
GENERAL
EchoStar was incorporated in Nevada during 1995 in connection with a
reorganization of a group of businesses under common control, the first of
which, Echosphere, was incorporated in 1980. Since its incorporation, Echosphere
Corporation, directly or indirectly, has been engaged in the design,
manufacture, distribution and installation of DTH products, domestic
distribution of DTH programming and consumer financing of EchoStar's domestic
DTH products and services. A subsidiary of EchoStar was granted a conditional
satellite construction permit, a specific orbital slot assignment and frequency
assignments by the FCC in 1989 to provide DBS service.
EchoStar successfully launched its first DBS, EchoStar I, in
December 1995. EchoStar is one of only two companies with United States licensed
operational capacity sufficient to provide comprehensive nationwide DBS
programming service in 1996. Currently, EchoStar offers over 100 channels of
high quality digital video and audio programming to the entire continental
United States. On September 10, 1996, EchoStar launched its second DBS,
EchoStar II, which, once operational, will allow DISH Network-SM- service to
expand to approximately 200 high quality digital video and audio channels .
There can be no assurance that the launch of EchoStar will prove completely
successful until approximately 60 days after its launch on September 10, 1996.
As of September 10, 1996, EchoStar had approximately 155,000 subscribers to its
DISH Network-SM- programming.
EchoStar will target approximately 110 million potential subscribers in
the continental United States, including approximately 96 million television
households. DISH Network-SM- subscribers can choose from a variety of
programming packages which EchoStar believes will have a better
price-to-value relationship than packages currently offered by most pay
television providers. For example, the entry level programming package
America's Top 40-SM- is priced at $19.99 per month and consists of 40 of the
top "expanded basic cable" channels, including a conventional premium
service, The Disney Channel-Registered Trademark-. EchoStar will also offer
various regional sports networks numerous premium services, pay-per-view
programming and, following the launch of a second satellite, additional
premium services and expanded pay-per-view offerings. EchoStar has negotiated
affiliation agreements with major content providers, giving it the right to
broadcast substantially all of the most popular programming, including
ESPN-Registered Trademark-, MTV-Registered Trademark-, Nickelodeon-Registered
Trademark-, VH-1-Registered Trademark-, Showtime Network-Registered
Trademark-, The Disney Channel-Registered Trademark-, USA Network-Registered
Trademark-, CNN-Registered Trademark-, Headline News-Registered Trademark-,
TNT-SM-, CNN International-SM-, Turner Classic Movies-Registered Trademark-,
The Discovery Channel-Registered Trademark-, A&E-SM-, HBO-Registered
Trademark-, Cinemax-Registered Trademark-, Lifetime Television-SM-, The
Family Channel-Registered Trademark-, C-Span-Registered Trademark-,
CNBC-Registered Trademark-, and many other programming services. EchoStar
also provides a user-friendly on screen programming guide, or navigator,
facilitating the management of current and future program offerings by
consumers.
EchoStar believes that it will have access to more U.S. licensed DBS
frequencies than any of its competitors. EchoStar controls, or will control
(subject to certain FCC approvals and findings) as many as 90 such frequencies,
including 21 frequencies at one of the three U.S. licensed orbital slots
currently capable of providing nationwide DBS service. See "-- Industry
Overview -- DBS Industry." EchoStar believes that access to this substantial
amount of DBS spectrum will enable it to achieve higher subscriber penetration
and higher revenue per subscriber than would otherwise be possible. EchoStar
currently plans to use this spectrum to offer a substantial number of additional
video channels, including alternate time zone feeds of popular expanded basic
cable programming, multiplexed premium movie services, frequent start
pay-per-view, local programming for the largest local U.S. television markets,
niche and foreign language programming, professional and college sporting
events, HDTV, business and educational programming and high-speed transmission
of Internet data.
The introduction of DBS receivers is widely regarded as the most successful
introduction of a consumer electronics product in U.S. history, surpassing the
rollout of color televisions, VCRs and compact disc players. During the
18 months ended December 31, 1995, approximately 2.2 million U.S. households
subscribed to DTH satellite service. According to an industry study performed
during late 1995, 85% of all consumers are satisfied with DBS picture quality,
compared to a consumer satisfaction level of approximately 47% for cable.
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Of the approximately 96 million television households in the United States,
it is estimated that approximately 60 million subscribers pay an average of $33
per month for multichannel programming services. EchoStar believes that there is
significant unsatisfied demand for high quality, reasonably priced television
programming. Although primary markets for the EchoStar DBS System are likely to
include the approximately 11.0 million households not passed by cable television
systems and the approximately 20.4 million households currently passed by cable
television systems with relatively limited channel capacity, EchoStar also
expects to target cable subscribers in urban and suburban areas who are
dissatisfied with the quality or price of their cable programming.
DISH Network-SM- programming is available to any subscriber who purchases
or leases an EchoStar receiver system, which includes an 18-inch satellite
dish, a digital satellite receiver, a user-friendly remote control and
related components (an "EchoStar Receiver System"). The suggested retail
price of an EchoStar Receiver System before the $199 Promotion was between
approximately $499 and $599, depending on the model selected by the customer,
among other factors. The initial equipment cost required to receive DISH
Network-SM-programming may reduce the demand for EchoStar Receiver Systems,
since EchoStar Receiver Systems must be purchased, while cable and certain of
EchoStar's satellite competitors lease their equipment to the consumer, with
little if any initial hardware payment required. EchoStar is currently
offering the $199 Promotion nationwide. The price of the annual programming
package of DISH Network-SM- service included in the $199 Promotion is $300,
which is comparable to the price of a similar package of annual cable
programming. This promotion will greatly reduce the initial capital
investment relative to cable . Due to the nationwide scope of this
promotion, EchoStar's investment in its subscriber base will increase
substantially, potentially resulting in a significant negative impact on
EchoStar's liquidity and results of operations. See "Risk Factors --
Possible Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock from NASDAQ."
In late August 1996, DirecTv announced a promotion similar to EchoStar's
$199 Promotion, whereby a consumer is able to purchase an entry level DirecTv
compatible satellite system with the prepayment of an annual basic programming
package for approximately $559. The net cost of the satellite system, exclusive
of programming, is approximately $199 after the consumer receives a $200 mail-in
rebate from DirecTv.
The EchoStar Receiver System is fully compatible with MPEG-2, the world
digital standard for computers and consumer electronics products, and provides
image and sound quality superior to current analog cable or MMDS television
services. EchoStar intends to market EchoStar Receiver Systems through its
nationwide network of approximately 3,000 independent distributors and
retailers. EchoStar is also currently engaged in discussions with brand name
consumer electronics equipment manufacturers for the production and distribution
of EchoStar Receiver Systems through national consumer electronics retailer
networks. EchoStar is also negotiating with a number of mass merchandisers,
direct sales organizations and consumer electronics retailers for other
distribution paths for EchoStar Receiver Systems.
STRATEGY
EchoStar's primary objective is to become one of the leading providers of
pay television services in the United States. EchoStar's strategy to achieve
this objective is to:
- Provide subscribers with more quality programming at lower price
points than other pay television providers.
- Utilize its large and established independent retail network to obtain
substantial market share in rural areas and areas served by cable systems with
relatively limited channel capacity.
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- Employ world standard MPEG-2 digital technology to achieve lower
manufacturing costs and assure superior product capability, including
compatibility with other consumer electronics products.
- Expand consumer electronics retail distribution through relationships
with major retailers or through licensing arrangements with brand name consumer
electronics manufacturers.
- Provide superior customer service by furnishing a single source to
purchase DISH Network-SM- hardware and programming and to obtain financing,
installation and customer care.
- Deploy satellites at additional DBS orbital slots to expand EchoStar's
product offerings with complementary video, data and interactive products.
DBS is the most efficient, least capital intensive means of reaching the
largest number of U.S. television households. EchoStar's first two satellites
will transmit high quality, digital television to the entire continental United
States for a capital cost of less than $500 million, or approximately $5 per
television household, permitting profitability with relatively low market
penetration. EchoStar believes that its strategy, together with the ability to
exploit the more favorable cost structure and the lower invested capital
requirements of DBS relative to other pay television providers, will enable
EchoStar to achieve its objectives.
In addition to the DBS business, EchoStar is engaged in the design,
manufacture, distribution and installation of DTH products, domestic
distribution of DTH programming and consumer financing of EchoStar's domestic
DTH products and services. During the six years ended December 31, 1995,
EchoStar sold over 1.7 million DTH receivers worldwide.
The elements of EchoStar's strategy are discussed below.
LOWER PRICED PROGRAMMING PACKAGES
As a result of the generally lower invested capital required of digital DBS
operators relative to cable television operators, EchoStar believes it is
currently one of the lowest cost providers of nationwide pay television
programming. Unlike cable television, DBS does not require access to public
rights-of-way, multiple origination facilities (commonly known as head-ends) or
ground construction to install, maintain or upgrade services, thus eliminating a
major portion of the significant capital required to operate a technologically
advanced cable television system. Cable industry trade groups and research
associations report that significant capital expenditures would be necessary to
upgrade existing analog coaxial cable television systems to digital fiber optic
technology. These expenditures are estimated to exceed $900 per subscriber. As a
result, EchoStar believes that DISH Network-SM- services are generally less
expensive than cable television subscriptions, while providing better video
quality, access to more channels and greater choice in programming packages.
EchoStar believes that cable companies generally will be unable or unwilling to
lower their prices to subscribers given the higher implicit cost of the
infrastructure necessary to deliver programming to their customers as compared
to DBS programming.
While wireless cable operators currently provide an analog signal, with
limited capacity and inferior image and sound quality compared to DBS, it is
expected that most large market operators backed by local telephone companies
will upgrade to digital technology over the next several years. In order to
implement this upgrade those operators will be required to install digital
decoders in each customer's home at a cost comparable to the cost of an EchoStar
DBS receiver and make certain modifications to their transmission facilities.
The cost of this digital upgrade will be significant and will have to be
amortized over a smaller base of potential customers.
EchoStar's low cost infrastructure and high channel capacity due to digital
compression enables the DISH Network-SM- to offer a wide variety of programming
packages at attractive price points. In addition to the annual programming
package included in the nationwide promotion, the DISH Network-SM- offers a
variety of programming packages including popular cable television networks.
The America's Top 40-SM- programming package, which includes a conventional
premium service, The Disney Channel-Registered Trademark-, is priced at
$19.99 per month. This package includes a diverse range of programming including
news, sports, general entertainment, movies, and family programming and will
represent a competitive value. The America's Top 40 Premium Plus-SM- package,
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priced at $29.99 per month, and the America's Top 40 Deluxe Plus-SM- package,
priced at $39.99 per month, includes the America's Top 40-SM- package combined
with one and two multiplexed premium services, respectively, including
HBO-Registered Trademark-, Cinemax-Registered Trademark- and Showtime-Registered
Trademark-. According to industry reports and trade press, multiplexed premium
services, which include three to five channels per service for the same retail
price as one service, have proven to be popular with consumers. Additional
packages and combinations are expected, including superstations, network
programming and regional sports offerings. The DISH Network-SM- offers
pay-per-view movies and niche services on an "a la carte" basis. EchoStar's
pay-per-view strategy focuses on the premier movie titles which generate
substantial viewer interest and, consequently, higher revenues and margins.
ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT RETAIL NETWORK
EchoStar has an established nationwide network of approximately
3,000 independent full-service distributors and retailers of DTH and DBS
satellite products and services that has been developed over the past 15 years.
Based on its relationships with these retailers and its knowledge of
distribution channels from marketing DTH products and competitor's DBS products,
EchoStar believes that it has a competitive advantage over other DBS providers
in marketing the DISH Network-SM-. EchoStar offers a commission program based on
sales of hardware and programming that it believes is competitive with
commissions programs offered by other DTH operators. In addition to utilizing
this retailer network, EchoStar will target other distribution channels,
including national consumer electronic outlets, direct sales organizations and
mass merchandisers.
ADOPT SECOND GENERATION DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
The EchoStar DBS System is fully compatible with MPEG-2 digital compression
technology, the world standard for computers and digital consumer electronics
and products. MPEG-2 compatibility gives EchoStar the advantage of seamlessly
interfacing with future digital consumer electronics and computer products. This
compatibility will generally result in lower costs to consumers as more
manufacturers use common components to design their products.
DEVELOP CONSUMER ELECTRONICS RETAIL DISTRIBUTION
EchoStar is currently in discussions with large brand name consumer
electronics companies to manufacture and provide greater retail distribution of
EchoStar Receiver Systems. EchoStar believes that these companies are interested
in manufacturing EchoStar DBS compatible equipment because of the opportunity to
package the receiver with an array of new digital consumer electronics products,
including HDTV, audio and video playback equipment and personal computers. These
manufacturers may also augment EchoStar's distribution through channels such as
consumer electronics outlets and mass merchandisers.
EchoStar is also actively pursuing, and has entered into several
agreements, with mass merchants, discount clubs and certain major retailers
to distribute EchoStar Receiver Systems and DISH Network-SM- programming.
From these discussions, EchoStar believes that these retailers have an
interest in retailing EchoStar Receiver Systems due to its differentiated
program offerings. EchoStar has agreements with SCI Systems, Inc. ("SCI")
(the world's largest electronics contract manufacturer) and Sagem Group
("Sagem") (a major European consumer electronics equipment manufacturer) to
manufacture DBS receivers to be distributed through its retail network. Only
SCI has produced a receiver acceptable to EchoStar, and SCI is presently
manufacturing receivers in sufficient quantities to meet expected demand.
EchoStar has given Sagem notice of its intent to terminate their contract,
and therefore, EchoStar is currently dependent on one manufacturing source
for its receivers. If SCI is unable for any reason to produce receivers in a
quantity sufficient to meet demand, EchoStar's liquidity and results of
operations may be adversely affected.
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INTEGRATED CUSTOMER SERVICE
EchoStar provides customer service competitive with other DTH operators by
offering integrated customer care through a single point of contact. By calling
1-800-333-DISH, customers can purchase hardware and programming, schedule
installation, obtain technical support, make inquiries regarding their accounts
and receive information about the DISH Network-SM-. In order to maximize its
customer service, EchoStar maintains its own call center and has also
contracted with industry leader Electronic Data Systems Inc. ("EDS"), to provide
call center services. In contrast, DirecTv and USSB subscribers must make two
separate telephone calls to subscribe to typical popular programming
combinations (one for DirecTv programming and one for USSB programming), and a
separate call for hardware customer service.
DEPLOY SATELLITES TO EXPAND PRODUCT OFFERINGS
EchoStar expects to utilize its substantial DBS capacity to offer expanded
product offerings to its customers, including video, data, and interactive
products. EchoStar currently plans to launch two additional satellites,
EchoStar III and EchoStar IV, by the end of 1998. EchoStar currently plans to
use this capacity to offer a substantial number of additional video channels,
including basic and premium cable, frequent start pay-per-view, local
programming to the largest U.S. television markets, niche and foreign language
programming, extensive professional and college sports events, HDTV, business
and educational programming and high-speed transmission of Internet data.
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
DBS INDUSTRY
DBS, as used in this Information Statement -- Prospectus, describes a high
power satellite broadcast service in the Ku frequency band which by
international agreement has been assigned unique nine degree orbital spacing
permitting higher powered transmissions which can be received on an 18-inch
satellite dish. Other DTH services include FSS, which describes low power
(C-band) and medium power (Ku-band) satellite services. Small dish size
generally increases consumer acceptance and provides a substantial competitive
advantage over other DTH services.
Although the concept of DBS was introduced in 1982, it did not become
commercially viable until the last several years because available satellite
technology did not allow for the power required to transmit to small dishes and
digital compression technology had not been adequately developed. Today, DBS
provides the most cost efficient national point to multi-point transport of
video, audio and data services. The advent of high powered satellites allows for
18-inch dishes and digital compression technology permits the broadcast of up to
ten channels of programming per transponder.
Eight DBS orbital slots, each with 32 frequencies, have been or will be
allocated by the FCC for use by domestic DBS providers. The FCC has indicated
its belief that only the 101DEG. WL, 110DEG. WL and 119DEG. WL slots provide
full CONUS coverage and, therefore, these three slots are considered the most
strategic. With respect to a fourth orbital position, 61.5DEG. WL, difficulties
with "look angles," among other factors, may make full CONUS DBS service from
that orbital position commercially impractical.
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The FCC has issued or is expected to issue licenses or construction permits
for DBS orbital locations as follows.
<TABLE>
Frequency Allocations For U.S. DBS Orbital Slots
------------------------------------------------
TOTAL
FREQUENCIES 61.5 DEG. 101 DEG. 110 DEG. 119 DEG. 148 DEG. 157 DEG. 166 DEG. 175 DEG.
----------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
EchoStar (1) ... 90 11 1 21 24 1 32
DirecTv ....... 54 27 27
MCI ........... 28 28
Continental .... 22 11 11
Tempo .......... 22 11 11
Dominion (2) ... 16 8 8
USSB ........... 16 5 3 8
Unassigned ..... 8 2 5 1
----------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Totals .... 256 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 32
----------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
----------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
</TABLE>
______________________
(1) Includes one frequency at 110DEG. WL, 10 frequencies at 119DEG. WL and 11
frequencies at 175DEG. WL as a result of EchoStar's December 1994
merger with DirectSat. Excludes the five frequencies at 119DEG. WL for
which EchoStar has an STA. Also includes 11 frequencies at 61.5DEG.
WL and 11 frequencies at 175DEG. WL controlled by DBSC. In January
1996, EchoStar entered the winning bid in the FCC Auction for 24
frequencies at 148DEG. WL. EchoStar believes it will be assigned an
additional 10 frequencies at 175DEG. WL and one frequency at 166DEG.
WL, if the FCC finds that EchoStar has a firm satellite construction
contract, but there is no assurance in this regard. EchoStar has not
yet developed a business plan for the 175DEG. WL orbital slot, which
has limited utility for service to the continental U.S.
(2) Dominion has appealed the FCC's decision refusing to reconsider the
cancellation of Dominion's claim to eight frequencies at the 119DEG.
WL orbital slot. In the event Dominion's appeal of the FCC's decision
is successful, Dominion may have the option to regain its 8 channels
at 119DEG. WL and forego its 8 channels at 61.5DEG. WL.
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In the event EchoStar is unable to raise substantial additional capital,
EchoStar may not be able to retain all of the licenses or construction permits
granted to it by the FCC. There can be no assurances that additional capital
will be available, or if available, that it will be available on terms favorable
to EchoStar.
As of the date of this Information Statement -- Prospectus, only EchoStar
and DirecTv have authorizations for more than 11 frequencies in the strategic
U.S. licensed orbital slots which provide for full CONUS coverage. In the FCC
Auction, MCI entered the winning bid to acquire the permit for 28 of 32
frequencies at the 110DEG. WL orbital slot. Issuance of the permit is subject
to FCC approval. EchoStar presently expects that MCI will be able to offer DBS
services from this slot within approximately two years or possibly sooner. See
"Risk Factors -- Competitive Nature of the Industry" and "-- Competition -- DBS
Industry -- Other DBS Operators."
Programming for DBS is generally available from the majority of programmers
on the same terms as are offered to cable operators. The Cable Act, subject to
certain exceptions, requires programmers controlled by integrated cable
companies to offer programming to all potential buyers on fair and reasonable
terms. Additionally, although not required by law, in EchoStar's experience,
substantially all unaffiliated programmers have made their programming available
on fair and reasonable terms. Pay-per-view programming has also generally been
made available to DBS providers on substantially the same terms and conditions
as are available to cable operators. See "Risk Factors -- Risks of Adverse
Effects of Government Regulation."
Pursuant to an agreement (the "Dominion Agreement"), dated July 19, 1996,
by and among Dominion Video Satellite, Inc., EchoStar Satellite Corporation,
DirectSat Corporation, MergerCo and DBSC (collectively, the "Providers"), the
Providers agreed to permit Dominion to broadcast from or to use transponders on
EchoStar I, EchoStar II and EchoStar III. Under the Dominion Agreement, DBSC
will allow Dominion to use eight transponders on EchoStar III to broadcast
programming for a term commencing upon the successful launch of EchoStar III and
(subject to certain exceptions) ending at the end of the useful operating life
of EchoStar III. Prior to that, EchoStar Satellite Corporation will permit
Dominion to broadcast programming on one channel from EchoStar I during the
useful operating life of EchoStar I subject to the earlier termination if the
EchoStar I STA is revoked or if certain other events occur (the "EchoStar I
Option"). In addition, DirectSat granted Dominion the right to broadcast
programming on one full transponder from EchoStar II for the useful operating
life of EchoStar II subject to earlier termination upon certain events. In the
event Dominion exercises its right to broadcast programming on one transponder
from EchoStar II, its rights under the EchoStar I Option terminate subject to
the option of Dominion to reinstate its right to broadcast from one channel on
EchoStar I pursuant to the EchoStar I Option in certain circumstances. Dominion
will make monthly satellite usage time agreement payments in exchange for its
use rights under the Dominion Agreement. Upon the commencement of the satellite
usage time agreement for the transponders on EchoStar III, Dominion has agreed
to allow EchoStar Satellite Corporation to use three of the original eight
transponders. In addition, pursuant to the Dominion Agreement, Dominion has a
right to use EchoStar's Digital Broadcast Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming and
EchoStar's telephone marketing system. The eight transponders on EchoStar
III which EchoStar will allow Dominion to use would not otherwise be
revenue-producing for DBSC because it has not been authorized to use those
transponders for its own DBS services. The satellite usage time agreement
arrangements, however, would require FCC approval and no assurance can be
given that the FCC will grant such approval.
As of September 10 , 1996, EchoStar had approximately 155,000 subscribers
to DISH Network-SM- programming.
C-BAND/DTH INDUSTRY
The DTH industry provides satellite television products and services,
including hardware and software for the reception and decryption of satellite
television programming. Currently, the majority of satellite programming is
transmitted at the C-band radio frequency, which typically requires dish sizes
ranging from six to 12 feet in diameter, depending upon geographic location.
This large dish compensates for a relatively low (under 20 Watts per
transponder) power signal. As of December 31, 1995, approximately 4.2 million
C-band systems had been sold in the United States at an average price of over
$2,000.
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THE MARKET
GENERAL
EchoStar believes that there is a significant unsatisfied demand for high
quality, reasonably priced television programming and that the domestic and
international markets for satellite products and services are growing as a
result of the following continuing fundamental characteristics: (i) cable
infrastructure is either weak or non-existent in many domestic and international
areas; (ii) a high percentage of current pay television subscribers are
dissatisfied with their current programming choices, service or pricing;
(iii) distribution of television programming to national, regional and
international audiences is increasing; and (iv) technological advancements, such
as higher powered satellites and digital compression, have continued. Although
many cable operators are expected to commit significant capital to upgrade their
systems to a competitive digital configuration, EchoStar believes that cable
operators will focus upgrades on the nation's top twenty to fifty television
markets and will largely ignore the rural areas which are among EchoStar's
primary target markets. Although EchoStar believes major upgrade programs will
occur in the top television markets, many of those markets have a divergent
group of cable operators with varying strategic initiatives. EchoStar believes
this fragmentation will work in EchoStar's favor as it attempts to gain market
share in these areas. Additionally, to match the digital offerings expected by
EchoStar, cable operators or customers must make an investment in a digital
receiver similar to the receiver to be offered by EchoStar.
EchoStar believes that the demand for satellite television services in the
U.S. has grown and will continue to grow and that the DISH Network-SM- provides
the most attractive alternative to cable. While the high-power DBS share of the
U.S. television market is currently small compared to cable, it has been
steadily increasing. Industry studies indicate that a substantial number of
consumers are dissatisfied with cable television, that former cable subscribers
who subscribe to a DBS system are more satisfied with it than cable. This
research also indicates that the most likely DBS customers are homeowners with
families who currently have or have had cable, subscribed to the premium cable
channels and consider television a significant component of their entertainment
activities. EchoStar believes, based on this research, that the following
factors will contribute to the market growth of the DISH Network-SM-.
DEMAND FOR MORE CHOICE IN TELEVISION PROGRAMMING AND BETTER QUALITY PICTURE
AND SOUND. Prior to the growth of cable television services, television viewers
were offered a relatively limited number of channels. As the number of channels
increased, consumer demand for more programming choices also increased. EchoStar
expects this trend will continue and that consumers will desire even more
programming choices than are available through cable. EchoStar believes
consumers are also increasingly demanding improved picture quality compared to
what has historically been offered by over-the-air VHF and UHF broadcasters and
by cable. EchoStar believes that the EchoStar DBS System is well-positioned to
benefit from these growing demands.
WEAK CABLE INFRASTRUCTURE. There are many rural areas of the United States
with either limited capacity of less than 39 channels or no cable television
availability. Of the approximately 11,000 cable systems in the United States,
many are located in rural areas outside significant population centers. The cost
to upgrade these systems would be significant and, in many cases, economically
unfeasible in a competitive environment. Since DTH satellite is the most
economical way to deliver programming, EchoStar believes that rural areas
provide a prime market for its satellite television products and services.
DISSATISFIED CABLE SUBSCRIBERS. EchoStar believes that a substantial
number of current cable subscribers are dissatisfied with the quality of picture
and sound, limited channel capability, complicated multi-tier packaging, cost of
service, and level of customer service provided by their cable systems. Industry
research has indicated that the number of cable subscribers dissatisfied with
cable television is significant. EchoStar believes that those cable subscribers
represent a substantial market opportunity and will potentially be attracted to
its DBS service.
INCREASED DISTRIBUTION OF TELEVISION PROGRAMMING. The global television
market is experiencing significant growth, both in terms of the number of
broadcasters creating programming and the number of channels available to
viewers. Within the United States, the number of television programming
providers grew from three in 1970
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to in excess of 200 currently. Similarly, deregulation in other countries has
fostered the entry into the market of additional television broadcasters. The
number of television channels and viewing alternatives available to United
States and international audiences is expected to continue to grow
dramatically.
EchoStar believes that national broadcasters and other service providers
will expand their use of satellites to distribute programming to national,
regional and international audiences. Major United States programmers are
undertaking efforts to transition from their current limited international roles
to global entertainment providers. In addition, EchoStar believes that
international broadcasters will expand their use of satellites to distribute
programming to domestic audiences of similar ethnic, linguistic or cultural
heritage, a cornerstone of EchoStar's niche programming strategy. This
programming is provided more economically by utilizing satellite television
systems rather than local cable and other programming delivery systems.
Likewise, consumer demand for additional programming choices has increased
as the availability of channels has increased. EchoStar believes that this trend
will continue and consumers will demand more programming choices than those
offered by their cable systems.
CONTINUING TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS. Recent technological advancements,
such as the advent of high powered satellites (which made possible the reduction
in the size of satellite dishes) and the development of digital compression
technology, have increased signal transmission capacity and lowered costs.
THE MARKET FOR DBS
EchoStar believes that the potential United States DBS market includes the
approximately 96 million households with television sets, together with
approximately 8.0 million businesses, 4.8 million commercial trucks, 3.0 million
recreational vehicles and 200,000 schools, libraries and other institutions that
desire access to high quality video, audio and data programming. Based upon
recent statistics approximately 64% of the 96 million United States households
with television sets currently pay for programming. Given the anticipated
relative low cost and greater programming choices of EchoStar's DBS service
compared to cable, EchoStar believes that it will be able to successfully
penetrate its target markets.
EchoStar also believes that, as a result of the large base of potential
customers, the EchoStar DBS System will be commercially viable even if only low
market penetration levels are achieved in any particular target market. EchoStar
has identified the following specific market segments as primary targets for
DBS:
NON-PASSED HOUSEHOLDS. One of the primary targets for EchoStar's DBS
services will be United States households with television sets that are not
presently passed by cable, a total of approximately 11 million homes. Of these,
in excess of 2 million are former cable subscribers who have relocated and do
not currently subscribe because cable is unavailable to them at their new
residences. The subscribers who are unserved by cable are generally located in
sparsely populated rural and remote areas beyond the economic reach of cable
systems. These households also include second homes. This market presents an
opportunity for DBS providers because, unlike cable service, the economics of
delivering DBS service are not affected by population density or remoteness, and
the same service can be provided to subscribers in such areas on the same basis
as provided in densely populated urban areas. Although C-band satellite
television services are available throughout the country, EchoStar believes that
many non-passed households settle for local broadcasting due to the size and
cost of C-band satellite dishes. EchoStar believes that non-passed households
will respond favorably to the availability of programming services, especially
to economically priced DBS services and reception equipment.
HOUSEHOLDS PASSED BY CABLE. EchoStar also intends to target the 85
million households that are passed by cable television, including the 20.4
million households that are passed by cable systems offering limited channel
capacity (less than 39 channels). Although programming offerings of cable
systems in major metropolitan areas are significant, most cable systems have
a typical analog capacity of 30 to 80 channels. In order to expand their
capacity to that to be offered by the DISH Network-SM-, EchoStar believes
that cable systems would have to upgrade their analog networks to fiber-based
digital service. Fiber upgrade implementation is in progress in a few cable
systems in select metropolitan markets, with a resultant increase of channel
capacity anticipated to be
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available in five to ten years. Due to the substantial capital investment
required for widescale deployment of fiber-based services, several cable
companies have pushed back originally-announced deployment schedules. EchoStar
believes that consumers will continue to demand the improved audio and video
quality, and expanded programming offerings, that are currently available with
DBS technology, but not available from over-the-air VHF and UHF broadcasters or
from cable.
INTERNATIONAL AND CULTURAL MARKETS. There are approximately 8.0 million
households headed by persons of foreign nationality living in the United States,
encompassing 22.6 million foreign born persons living in the United States.
Generally, it is not cost effective for traditional broadcasters or cable
companies to provide targeted programming to these households due to the
generally low number of such niche customers in any particular local market.
These customers, along with other customers interested in receiving
international and other cultural programming, will be an important target market
for EchoStar. EchoStar's incremental cost to provide multicultural programming
is relatively insignificant given the ability of digital DBS service to utilize
a national delivery system for all mainstream and multicultural programming.
EchoStar believes that, by directly marketing international programming to these
customers, it will also sell more of its most popular programming.
MOBILE, COMMERCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL MARKETS. Other target markets for DBS
services include mobile, commercial and institutional markets. Already, many
recreational vehicle owners have purchased C-band satellite dishes. Management
believes that lower equipment prices and the smaller dish size will attract many
more recreational vehicle owners to DBS service, similar to the current
experience in Europe. EchoStar also believes that businesses, hotels,
restaurants, schools, libraries, apartment buildings and other commercial and
institutional organizations will purchase EchoStar's DBS programming and
equipment in order to receive educational, foreign language and niche video and
audio programming. EchoStar also intends to market its DBS service to the marine
and other mobile markets requiring actuated systems.
BUSINESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS. EchoStar also intends to target
professional and related business groups as potential markets for its
programming services. Such groups include multi-level marketing organizations
and legal, medical, accounting and real estate professionals, among others.
CURRENT EXPERIENCE OF DIGITAL DTH OPERATORS
The digital DTH satellite business in the United States has experienced
tremendous consumer acceptance. The introduction of DBS receivers is widely
regarded as the most successful introduction of a consumer electronics product
in U.S. history, surpassing the roll out of color televisions, VCRs and compact
disc players. During the 18 month period ended December 31, 1995, approximately
2.2 million U.S. households subscribed to digital DTH satellite service. DBS
providers have been successful penetrating households both passed and not passed
by traditional cable operators. According to one DBS service provider,
approximately 50% of its subscribers are passed by traditional cable operators.
Approximately 50% of those were actually subscribing to cable at the time they
chose to subscribe. EchoStar has also been encouraged by the willingness of
early DBS subscribers to pay relatively high monthly programming fees.
Subscribers are currently paying an average of approximately $50 per month for
DBS programming, as compared to approximately $33 per month for the average
cable subscription. According to an industry study performed during late 1995,
85% of all consumers are satisfied with DBS picture quality compared to a
consumer acceptance rate of approximately 47% for cable.
DBS AND RELATED SERVICES
PROGRAMMING
EchoStar currently offers over 100 channels of digital video and audio
programming directly to its subscriber base including, but not limited to, the
following:
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<TABLE>
EXPANDED BASIC CABLE CHANNELS
<S> <C>
USA ............... Original series, movies, high profile sports and animated children's
programming.
TBS ............... Movies, documentaries, comedies, children's shows and sports, including the
NBA and Atlanta Braves baseball.
TNT ............... Classic and original movies, NFL and comprehensive NBA schedule.
ESPN .............. Wide variety of sports programming including the NFL, NHL and MLB.
CARTOON NETWORK ... Programming from the Hanna Barbera cartoon library.
NICKELODEON ....... Top rated children's programming.
A&E ............... Cultural and entertainment programming.
LIFETIME .......... Movies, specials and feature films targeted to women.
CNN ............... In-depth news and commentary.
THE DISCOVERY
CHANNEL .......... Non-fiction entertainment and documentaries.
THE FAMILY CHANNEL. Family-oriented entertainment.
MTV ............... Music video and entertainment network.
SCI-FI CHANNEL .... Science fiction, fantasy, classic horror and factual science
programming.
THE LEARNING
CHANNEL .......... Diverse mix of how-to, cooking, science, history and
educational shows.
CNBC .............. Late breaking market news and personal finance information.
COURT TV .......... News from courtrooms around the world.
C-SPAN ............ Coverage of U.S. congressional events and public affairs.
ESPN2 ............. Differentiated sports programming targeting younger viewers,
including the NHL.
HEADLINE NEWS ..... Concise, fast-paced 30 minute news updates.
CNN FN ............ Comprehensive business and financial news.
CNN INTERNATIONAL.. International news, sports and weather.
TURNER CLASSIC
MOVIES ........... Movies, special features and entertainment.
E!................. Programming from the world of celebrities and entertainment.
THE WEATHER
CHANNEL .......... Local, national and international weather.
THE TRAVEL CHANNEL. Video visits and travel information and advice.
VH(1) ............. Music videos for adults and cultural programming.
COUNTRY MUSIC
TELEVISION ....... Contemporary country music hits.
EWTN .............. Continuous family-oriented and religious programming.
PREMIUM CHANNELS
DISNEY CHANNEL* ... Animated Disney classics, original series, entertainment
specials and movies.
HBO ............... Five channels of first run movies including award winning originals, high
profile sports and special events and concerts.
CINEMAX ........... Three channels of popular movies.
SHOWTIME .......... Three channels of first run and original movies.
THE MOVIE CHANNEL.. Two channels of first run movies.
</TABLE>
__________________
* Included in all DISH Network-SM- programming packages which include America's
Top 40-SM- and is also included in the $199 Promotion.
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On September 10, 1996, EchoStar launched EchoStar II which, once
operational, will allow the DISH Network-SM- service to expand to approximately
200 high quality digital video and audio channels. There can be no assurance
that the launch of EchoStar II will prove completely successful until
approximately 60 days after its initial launch on September 10, 1996.
EchoStar offers a variety of value oriented programming packages.
EchoStar's America's Top 40-SM- programming package is priced at $19.99 per
month. This service level includes news, sports, general entertainment,
movies, and family programming, including The Disney Channel-Registered
Trademark-, and is attractively priced in relation to its competition. For
price points ranging from $29.99 to $39.99 per month, EchoStar offers its
America's Top 40-SM- package with one or more multiplexed premium services
such as HBO-Registered Trademark-, Cinemax-Registered Trademark-, The Movie
Channel-Registered Trademark- and Showtime-Registered Trademark-. Additional
packages and combinations include superstations, network programming and
regional sports offerings. Effective August 1, 1996, EchoStar began offering
the $199 Promotion nationwide. The price of the annual programming package
of DISH Network-SM- service included in the $199 Promotion is $300, or $25
per month.
To subscribe to the full complement of services offered by current DBS
service providers, including DirecTv and USSB, a consumer would be required
to pay approximately $65 per month. DirecTv predominately markets a package
of services available at a price point of $29.95 per month, although other
packages are available, including a more limited selection of "basic cable"
channels for $19.95. USSB predominately markets a tier of popular basic
services for $7.95 per month and premium service packages ranging from $10.95
to $34.95 per month. EchoStar's America's Top 40-SM- programming package
includes the best of DirecTv's and USSB's basic programming, plus The Disney
Channel-Registered Trademark-, for less than $20 per month. EchoStar offers
comparable programming for less than $50 per month. In addition, DISH
Network-SM- subscribers receive a single bill for all programming services
while subscribers to DirecTv and USSB receive two bills. Currently, DirecTv
offers subscribers the NFL Sunday Ticket-TM- and USSB offers Flix-TM-, both
channels which are available to those service providers on an exclusive
basis. The suggested retail price to the consumer of satellite receiver
systems offered by EchoStar and DirecTv generally are comparable. See "--
EchoStar Receiver Systems."
EchoStar's program offerings also include additional channels with regional
sports, niche programming, educational and cultural programming, shopping
services, pay-per-view options and certain subscriber selected programming. In
addition to these offerings, The DISH Network-SM- service includes:
(i) "Superstations," such as KTLA, WGN and WPIX; and (ii) network feeds of ABC,
NBC and CBS from various time zones plus Fox and PBS. Once EchoStar II
becomes operational, EchoStar expects to further expand its DISH Network-SM-
program offerings to include: (i) additional multiplexed premium services;
(ii) additional regional sports services; (iii) expanded pay-per-view options;
(iv) out-of-market professional and college sports programming;
(v) international programs; and (vi) niche programming, including business
programming. EchoStar is finalizing agreements with major production studios,
including Disney, Paramount, Warner Brothers, Columbia TriStar, Sony and
Universal Studios, to provide pay-per-view movies and events. EchoStar has
dedicated six channels for pay-per-view movies on EchoStar I, and expects to
expand to 20 to 40 channels upon the successful deployment of EchoStar II.
Pay-per-view options may include first run movies, live sporting and
entertainment events. These video offerings are complemented with compact disc
quality audio programming provided by Muzak as well as library and other data
services, such as financial and weather information.
ECHOSTAR RECEIVER SYSTEMS
DISH Network-SM- programming is available to any subscriber who purchases or
leases an EchoStar Receiver System. A typical EchoStar Receiver System includes
an 18-inch satellite receiver dish, a receiver, which processes and descrambles
signals for television viewing, a remote control and related components. The
EchoStar Receiver System is also fully compatible with local broadcast signals.
The EchoStar Receiver System is generally available in a standard and premium
model. The premium model includes a universal UHF remote, an expanded favorite
channel list and a high speed data port, all features not available on the
standard model. Households can receive local broadcast signals, either through
a standard television antenna (a traditional rooftop or set-top antenna) or by
subscribing to basic cable and can also switch between DBS signals and local
programming signals using the remote control. According to the industry
research, approximately 76% of DBS
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households currently receive local programming signals from standard
television antennas. The suggested retail price for an EchoStar Receiver
System is currently between and $499 and $599, depending on the model
selected, among other factors. Dealer incentives and EchoStar sponsored
promotions may reduce the actual cost of an EchoStar Receiver System below
the suggested retail price. The initial equipment cost required to receive
DISH Network-SM- programming may reduce the demand for EchoStar Receiver
Systems, since EchoStar Receiver Systems must be purchased, while cable and
certain of EchoStar's satellite competitors lease their equipment to the
consumer with little or any initial hardware payment required. EchoStar is
currently offering the $199 Promotion nationwide. The minimum price of an
annual programming package of DISH Network-SM- service included in the $199
Promotion is $300, which is comparable to the price of a similar package of
annual cable programming. EchoStar believes the suggested retail price of a
DSS-TM- satellite receiver system for DirecTv programming is currently
between approximately $499 and $799, although special dealer incentives and
promotions may decrease the cost to the customer. Both service providers
currently offer system financing to the consumer.
In late August 1996, DirecTv announced a promotion similar to EchoStar's
$199 Promotion, whereby a consumer is able to purchase an entry level DirecTv
compatible satellite system with the prepayment of an annual basic programming
package for approximately $559. The net cost of the satellite system, exclusive
of programming, is approximately $199 after the consumer receives a $200 mail-in
rebate from DirecTv.
Authorization information for subscription programming is expected to be
stored on microchips placed on a credit card-sized access, or smart card. The
smart card, which can easily be updated or replaced periodically at low cost,
provides a simple and effective method to authorize and deauthorize subscription
programming. If the receiver's smart card is authorized for a particular
channel, the data is decrypted and passed on for audio and video decompression.
After decompression, the digital audio and video are reconstructed into analog
format for display on a standard television set.
The EchoStar DBS System integrates a number of technological advances,
including digital audio and video compression. The combination of these elements
in the EchoStar DBS System is intended to provide the consumer with affordable
access to a broad spectrum of entertainment and informational products, home
shopping and similar services, educational services and databases.
EchoStar does not manufacture EchoStar Receiver Systems directly. Instead
EchoStar has contracted for the manufacture of EchoStar Receiver Systems with
high-volume contract electronics manufacturers. EchoStar has entered into
agreements with SCI and Sagem to manufacture MPEG-2 DBS receivers in quantities
which EchoStar believes will be adequate to meet anticipated demand during 1996.
EchoStar has given Sagem notice of its intent to terminate their contract, and
therefore, EchoStar is currently dependent on one manufacturing source for its
receivers. SCI is presently manufacturing receivers in sufficient quantities to
meet expected demand. EchoStar is also in negotiations with several brand name
consumer electronics manufacturers to produce receivers for use with the DISH
Network-SM-.
EchoStar also acted as an agent for the sale of DBS programming offered by
a current DBS competitor through the end of 1995. EchoStar will continue to
distribute satellite receivers manufactured for that competitor's DBS system
("Competitor DBS Receivers") in 18 states until all current inventory is sold or
returned.
FINANCING
EchoStar offers consumers the opportunity to lease or finance their
EchoStar Receiver Systems, including installation costs and certain programming
packages, on competitive terms. EchoStar has agreements with major consumer
finance groups to make consumer credit available to EchoStar customers. All
EchoStar financing is provided by third parties and is generally non-recourse to
EchoStar. Under EchoStar's revolving charge plan, customers are issued a
DISH-TM-private label credit card allowing them to increase service levels at
any time.
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At present EchoStar Credit has initiated a civil action against the Associates,
one of its financing sources, alleging a breach of contract. EchoStar Credit
allege that the Associates, among other things, breached its contract with
EchoStar Credit pursuant to which Associates agreed to finance the purchase of
EchoStar Receiver Systems by consumers. EchoStar Credit allege that the
Associates' refusal to finance certain prospective consumers has resulted in the
loss of approximately 700 to 1,000 customers per day to EchoStar's competitors.
In addition, EchoStar Credit allege that the loss of sales due to the Associates
action has forced EchoStar to lower the price on its products. As a result of
the actions alleged by EchoStar Credit to have been taken by the Associates,
EchoStar Credit may be forced to seek a new finance company to finance the
purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems. There can be no assurance that such
financing will be available or that, if available, it will be available on terms
favorable to EchoStar. In addition, any material delay in the ability of
EchoStar to obtain subscribers to Dish Network programming would negatively
affect EchoStar's financial condition and results of operations. See "Risk
Factors -- Risk that Failure to Finance Consumers Will Limit Demand of EchoStar
Receiver Systems."
INSTALLATION
During 1994, EchoStar began increasing its presence in the DTH and
commercial satellite receiver installation business. Approximately 90 employees
have been hired through June 30, 1996, and more are expected to be hired during
the third and fourth quarter of 1996 if anticipated demand for dependable high
volume DTH and commercial satellite installations materializes, and the number
of experienced satellite retailers continues to decline. By offering local
satellite retailers the opportunity to become associated with a nationwide
installation group, EchoStar intends to make installation business available to
retailers that they would not otherwise have the ability to obtain. Similarly,
based on its industry strength, EchoStar expects that businesses with nationwide
installation needs will select EchoStar for installation services.
OTHER COMPONENTS
SUBSCRIBER MANAGEMENT. EchoStar has entered into an agreement with Cable
Services Group, Inc. ("CSG") to provide subscriber management, billing and
remittance services for Dish Network-SM- subscribers. Under the terms of the
agreement, EchoStar is also provided with access to a subscriber management
system maintained by CSG which facilitates the authorization of particular
programming and the issuance of updated access cards, and coordinates billing
and renewal functions.
CUSTOMER CARE CALL CENTER. EchoStar has entered into an agreement with EDS
to provide customer call center operations. These operations complement those
currently managed by EchoStar, while greatly expanding service capacity.
Potential and existing subscribers can call a single phone number to receive
assistance for hardware, programming, installation or service.
DIGITAL BROADCAST CENTER. The first step in the delivery of satellite
programming to the customer is the uplink of that programming to the satellite.
Uplink is the process by which signals are received from either the programming
originator or distributor and transmitted to a satellite. EchoStar recently
constructed a digital broadcast center in Cheyenne, Wyoming that uplinks
programming to EchoStar's satellites. The digital broadcast center contains
fiber optic lines and downlink antennas to receive programming and other data at
the center, as well as a number of large uplink antennas and other equipment
necessary to modulate and demodulate the programming and data signals. The
compression and encryption of the programming signals will also be done at this
center.
The real estate underlying the digital broadcast center was deeded to a
subsidiary of EchoStar by a quasi-governmental economic development entity for
nominal consideration.
CONDITIONAL ACCESS SYSTEM. EchoStar has contracted with Nagra Plus, SA to
provide access control systems, as well as smart cards used with each EchoStar
Receiver System necessary to receive the authorization code. The access control
system is central to the security network that prevents unauthorized viewing of
programming. In the event the equipment or access control systems fail to
perform as intended, EchoStar's plan of operations would be adversely affected.
EchoStar believes the vendor it has chosen is highly qualified, and has
confidence
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that the access control system will adequately prevent unauthorized
access to programming. Further, the receiver has been designed with the
flexibility to completely change the access control system in the event of a
security breach. However, the technology is still relatively new and success is
not an absolute certainty. In the event that such systems or products fail to
operate as intended, EchoStar's business would be adversely affected if the
vendors could not rapidly implement corrective measures.
COMPRESSION SYSTEM. EchoStar has entered into an agreement with DiviCom,
Inc. to provide the necessary equipment to digitize, compress and encrypt the
analog signals transmitted by programmers to EchoStar's digital broadcast
center. Digitized signals are then multiplexed and modulated into an MPEG-2
transport stream for transmission to EchoStar's satellites. Once a customer has
ordered programming from EchoStar, an authorization code is transmitted to the
customer's satellite receiver, allowing the customer to receive the programming
within seconds after placing the order.
TRACKING, TELEMETRY AND CONTROL OF SATELLITES AFTER LAUNCH. Once a
satellite is placed at its orbital location, ground stations control it until
the end of its in-orbit lifetime. EchoStar has entered into an agreement with
AT&T to provide TT&C services with respect to EchoStar I and EchoStar II,
including orbital analysis and satellite engineering. The agreement terminates
upon the later to occur of December 31, 2005 or the end of the useful life of
EchoStar II. The agreement limits the liability of AT&T in the event it
negligently performs its services under the agreement or otherwise terminates
the agreement prior to the expiration of its term. It is expected that such
risks will be covered by in-orbit insurance; however, no assurances can be given
that such insurance can be obtained on commercially reasonable terms.
While TT&C services have not yet been procured for EchoStar III or EchoStar
IV, EchoStar believes that these services can be timely obtained from a number
of vendors.
DBS AND OTHER PERMITS
EchoStar's subsidiaries have been assigned 21 DBS frequencies at 119DEG.
WL, one of the three U.S. licensed orbital slots that provide full CONUS
coverage. Of these frequencies, eleven are held by EchoStar Satellite
Corporation ("ESC"). Eleven of the 16 transponders on EchoStar I will be
utilized to operate those frequencies. Ten frequencies were acquired as a result
of a merger between DirectSat and a subsidiary of EchoStar, which was
consummated in December 1994. Ten of the sixteen transponders on EchoStar II
will be utilized to operate these frequencies. In addition, EchoStar has
received an STA from the FCC to operate the remaining five frequencies
(approximately 30 additional video channels for a total of approximately 100
video channels) on EchoStar I. The EchoStar I STA expires September 30, 1996
unless further extended by the FCC. There can be no assurance that EchoStar will
be permitted to operate the additional five transponders after that period.
Pursuant to the Dominion Agreement, the Providers agreed to permit Dominion
to broadcast from or to use transponders on EchoStar I, EchoStar II and EchoStar
III. Under the Dominion Agreement, DBSC will allow Dominion to use eight
transponders on EchoStar III to broadcast programming for a term commencing upon
the successful launch of EchoStar III and (subject to certain exceptions) ending
at the end of the useful operating life of EchoStar III. Prior to that,
EchoStar Satellite Corporation will permit Dominion to broadcast programming on
one channel from EchoStar I during the useful operating life of EchoStar I
subject to the earlier termination if the EchoStar I STA is revoked or if
certain other events occur pursuant to the EchoStar I Option. In addition,
DirectSat granted Dominion the right to broadcast programming on one full
transponder from EchoStar II for the useful operating life of EchoStar II
subject to earlier termination upon certain events. In the event Dominion
exercises its right to broadcast programming on one transponder from EchoStar
II, its rights under the EchoStar I Option terminate subject to the option of
Dominion to reinstate its right to broadcast from one channel on EchoStar I
pursuant to the EchoStar I Option in certain circumstances. Dominion will make
monthly satellite usage time agreement payments in exchange for its use rights
under the Dominion Agreement. Upon the commencement of the satellite usage time
agreement for the transponders on EchoStar III, Dominion has agreed to allow ESC
to use three of the original eight transponders. In addition, pursuant to the
Dominion Agreement Dominion has a right to use EchoStar's Digital Broadcast
Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming and
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EchoStar's telephone marketing system. The eight transponders on EchoStar
III which EchoStar will allow Dominion to use would not otherwise be
revenue-producing for DBSC because it has not been authorized to use those
transponders for its own DBS services. The satellite usage time agreement
arrangements, however, would require FCC approval and no assurance can be
given that the FCC will grant such approval.
In addition to its frequencies at 119DEG. WL, DirectSat has been assigned
11 frequencies at 175DEG. WL, and EchoStar expects to be assigned an additional
ten frequencies at 175DEG. WL provided the FCC finds that ESC has a firm
contract for the construction of a satellite at this orbital slot, but there can
be no assurance in this regard. While a business plan has not yet been
finalized, these frequencies could be used to provide a high power DBS service
to the Western continental U.S., Hawaii and Alaska, and could also be
potentially valuable as a link for the provision of programming between the
United States and the Pacific Rim, if FCC and ITU coordination can be arranged.
EchoStar currently owns approximately 40% of the outstanding common stock
of DBSC, which holds a conditional satellite construction permit and specific
orbital slot assignments for eleven DBS frequencies at each of 61.5DEG. WL and
175DEG. WL. EchoStar expects to acquire 100% of DBSC pursuant to the Merger.
The Merger has been approved by DBSC's shareholders and the FCC. A timely
objection to the Merger was filed by the Consumer Project on Technology ("CPT").
CPT contended in its objection that the Merger would permit EchoStar to acquire
a dominant and anticompetitive position in the DBS marketplace by aggregating an
excessive number of DBS channels. A series of letters objecting to the Merger
were also filed subsequently by the CPT and another public interest group.
These letters raised the same issues as the CPT's earlier objection. Although
FCC approval of the Merger was obtained on August 30, 1996, CPT may seek
reconsideration, full FCC review or judicial review of the grant of the Merger
application.
Assuming consummation of the Merger, EchoStar will hold, through its DBSC
subsidiary, the construction permit and slot assignments for these frequencies.
In connection with the Merger, EchoStar expects to issue approximately
658,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock to DBSC shareholders in exchange for
all of the DBSC stock that it does not already own.
ESC's, DirectSat's and DBSC's permits are subject to continuing due
diligence requirements imposed by the FCC. See "-- Governmental Regulation --
FCC Permits and Licenses." Each company's applications to extend their DBS
permits have been conditionally approved by the FCC and are subject to
further FCC and appellate review, but there can be no assurance that the FCC
will determine in the future that ESC, DirectSat or DBSC have complied with
the due diligence requirements. Failure to comply with due diligence
requirements could result in the revocation of DBS permits.
During January 1996, the FCC held an auction for 28 frequencies at the
110DEG. WL orbital slot and 24 frequencies at the 148DEG. WL orbital slot. At
the FCC auction, EchoStar entered the high bid of $52.3 million to acquire a
DBS construction permit for the use of 24 frequencies at the 148DEG. WL orbital
slot. To participate in the FCC Auction, EchoStar deposited $12 million
with FCC. If the construction permit is granted, EchoStar will be required to
pay the remainder of the purchase price for the 148DEG. WL orbital slot.
EchoStar will be required to complete construction of that satellite within
four years of the permit grant, and the satellite must be in operation within
six years of the grant.
EchoStar has an application pending before the FCC for a two satellite U.S.
FSS Ka-band system and a two satellite extended Ku-band satellite system.
EchoStar has been granted a license for a two satellite FSS Ku-band system,
which is conditioned on EchoStar making an additional financial showing. There
can be no assurance the FCC will consider EchoStar's additional showing to be
adequate. If the pending applications are granted, and EchoStar successfully
constructs and launches FSS, extended Ku-band and Ka-band satellites, those
satellites might be used to complement EchoStar DBS System programming, or for a
variety of other uses. It is possible that the unique FSS Ku-band and Ka-band
orbital locations requested by EchoStar and others could
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permit construction of satellites with sufficient power to allow dish sizes
comparable to DBS. All of these projects are in an early stage of development
and there is no assurance that EchoStar's applications will be granted by the
FCC or that, if granted, EchoStar will successfully exploit the resulting
business opportunities. All of these applications are currently being
challenged by several companies with interests adverse to EchoStar's.
An 80% owned subsidiary of EchoStar has applied for construction permits
and authorizations to operate a six satellite low earth orbit satellite system.
While primary applications for that system are unrelated to DBS, it is possible
that the system could serve as a path for wireless communication with EchoStar
DBS customers, particularly for periodic polling of units for pay-per-view
purchases and relative rapid feedback on viewer pay-per-view buy rates and
preferences. This project is in an early stage of development and there is no
assurance that EchoStar's application will be granted by the FCC or that, if
granted, EchoStar will successfully exploit the resulting business opportunity.
THE SATELLITES
EchoStar I and EchoStar II are Lockheed Martin Series 7000 satellites
equipped with 16 Ku-band transponders, each with 130 Watts of power,
approximately eight times the power of typical C-band transponders. EchoStar III
is a Lockheed Martin Series 2100AX satellite equipped with 3,840 Watts of
power which can be divided among 16 to 32 Ku-band transponders. EchoStar IV is
a Lockheed Martin Series 2100AX Satellite equipped with 32 Ku-band transponders.
EchoStar IV's antenna configuration is designed for use at the 175DEG. WL
orbital slot, which antenna configuration may be altered at the request of
EchoStar so that an alternative orbital slot could be selected subject to FCC
approval. Each transponder will be capable of handling analog video channels or
multiple digital video, audio and data channels. The satellites have a minimum
design life of 12 years and an estimated orbital life of 15 years or more if
optimally deployed. The Satellite Contracts provide for the construction and
delivery of multiple high powered DBS satellites and related services.
All pre-launch payments due to Lockheed Martin with respect to EchoStar I
and EchoStar II have been made. The remainder of the aggregate purchase price
for each satellite is required to be paid, with interest ranging between 7.75%
and 8.25%, over a period of five years after the delivery and launch of each
satellite (the "Deferred Payments"). The majority of the purchase price for
EchoStar III and EchoStar IV is required to be paid in monthly payments during
construction. Deferred Payments of $15.0 million each for EchoStar III and
EchoStar IV are agreed to.
Except under limited circumstances, Lockheed Martin generally owns each
satellite it constructs for EchoStar, and the components thereof, until the
launch of each satellite. As security for the portion of the Deferred Payments
due to Lockheed Martin with respect to EchoStar I and EchoStar II, Dish, Ltd.
has: (i) granted to Lockheed Martin a security interest in substantially all
assets of Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries, other than the stock of the
subsidiaries and proceeds derived from the sale of the 1994 Notes, subordinate
to the first security interest in the assets of ESC granted to the Trustee under
the 1994 Indenture, and to the liens granted to any commercial bank which
provides a revolving credit facility to Dish, Ltd., except that such security
interest ranks PARI PASSU with the security interest in the assets of ESC
granted for the benefit of the holders of the 1994 Notes with respect to
$30.0 million of the Deferred Payments; and (ii) caused Dish, Ltd. and its
subsidiaries to guarantee payment in full of the Deferred Payments. Following
any default on the Deferred Payments, Lockheed Martin is prohibited from
realizing on any of the collateral for a period of at least five years following
consummation of the 1994 Notes Offering, and in any event for 180 days following
such default. Lockheed Martin also has a security interest in certain assets
of EchoStar's subsidiaries
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other than ESC, which lien ranks senior to the lien on such assets granted
for the benefit of the holders of the 1994 Notes.
Subsequent to June 30, 1996, EchoStar and Lockheed Martin amended the
contracts for the construction of EchoStar I and EchoStar II. As collateral
security for contractor financing of EchoStar I and EchoStar II, EchoStar was
required to provide a letter of credit prior to the launch of EchoStar II in
the amount of $10.0 million (increasing to more than $40.0 million by 1999) and
the principal stockholder of EchoStar pledged all of his Preferred Stock to
Lockheed Martin pursuant to the Preferred Stock Guarantee. Under the amended
agreements, EchoStar will issue a corporate guarantee covering all obligations
to Lockheed Martin with respect to the contractor financing for EchoStar I and
EchoStar II. In consideration for the receipt of the corporate guarantee by
EchoStar, Lockheed Martin has agreed to eliminate the letter of credit
requirements, and to release the Preferred Stock Guarantee in accordance with a
specified formula based on the then outstanding contractor financing debts and
the market value of EchoStar's Class A Common Stock. This transaction has been
approved by EchoStar's board of directors with EchoStar's principal stockholder
abstaining from the vote. Additionally, EchoStar will issue a corporate
guarantee covering all obligations to Lockheed Martin with respect to the
contractor financing for Echostar III and EchoStar IV.
EchoStar will require additional funds for the construction and launch of
its third, fourth and fifth DBS Satellites. See "Risk Factors -- Need for
Additional Capital."
SATELLITE LAUNCHES
EchoStar II was launched by Arianespace from Korou, French Guiana on
September 10, 1996. There can be no assurance that the launch of EchoStar II
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will prove completely successful until approximately 60 days after its initial
launch on September 10, 1996.
EchoStar has entered into a contract for launch services with Lockheed
Martin Commercial Launch Services, Inc. ("Lockheed Services") for the launch of
EchoStar III from Cape Canaveral Air Station, Florida during the fall of 1997,
subject to delay or acceleration in certain circumstances (the "Lockheed
Contract"). The Lockheed Contract provides for launch of the satellite utilizing
an Atlas IIAS launch vehicle. As of August 31, 1996, EchoStar has made the
initial payment of $5.0 million and the remaining price is payable in
installments in accordance with the payment schedule set forth in the Lockheed
Contract. Under that schedule, substantially all of the price is required to be
paid before the launch.
EchoStar has the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate the Lockheed
Contract at any time subject to forfeiture of certain amounts paid to Lockheed
Services. In addition, EchoStar has a right to terminate the Lockheed Contract
and receive a full refund for all amounts paid to Lockheed Services if the total
launch delays (except certain excusable delays) caused by Lockheed Services
exceed 12 months.
EchoStar has contracted with LKE for the launch of an additional satellite
during 1998 from the Kazakh Republic, a territory of the former Soviet Union,
utilizing a Proton launch vehicle (the "LKE Contract"). Either party may
request a delay in the relevant launch period, subject to the payment of
penalties based on the length of the delay and the proximity of the request to
the launch date.
EchoStar has the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate the LKE
Contract at any time, subject to the forfeiture of certain amounts paid to LKE.
In addition, EchoStar has the right to terminate the LKE Contract and receive a
full refund of all amounts paid to LKE in certain circumstances, including:
(i) a launch delay caused by LKE which exceeds nine months from the last day of
the original launch period; (ii) an increase in the price or change in payment
or other terms necessitated by compliance with, or implementation of, the trade
agreement between the United States and Russia; (iii) EchoStar's inability to
obtain necessary export licenses; (iv) the failure of Proton launch vehicles;
and (v) EchoStar's inability to procure launch insurance on commercially
reasonable terms. In the event termination of the LKE Contract is caused by the
failure of Proton launch vehicles, however, LKE would be entitled to retain up
to $15.0 million, depending on the number and proximity of Proton failures to
EchoStar's scheduled launch.
EchoStar expects to launch on a Proton D-le four stage launch vehicle.
Astra 1F, the first commercial launch on a Proton D-le, was successfully
launched on March 27, 1996. LKE currently has contracts providing for the
launch of at least five non-EchoStar western satellites through 1997.
INSURANCE
Under the terms of the Satellite Contracts, Lockheed Martin bears the risk
of loss of the EchoStar satellites during the construction phase up to launch.
At launch, title and risk of loss pass to EchoStar, at which time the launch
insurance becomes operative. EchoStar has procured the required in-orbit
insurance for EchoStar I. EchoStar contracted for launch insurance coverage for
EchoStar II in the amount of $219.3 million and, together with the cash
segregated and reserved on its balance sheet, satisfied its current insurance
obligations under the 1994 Indenture.
The launch insurance policy covers the period between launch through
completion of testing and commencement of commercial operations. The policy
protects against losses resulting from the failure of a
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satellite to achieve its proper orbit parameters or to perform in accordance
with the satellite's operational performance parameters. The 1994 Indenture
also requires in-orbit insurance to be kept in force for EchoStar I and
EchoStar II in specified amounts.
The launch insurance policy for EchoStar II contains, and the insurance
policy for EchoStar I with respect to in-orbit operation contains, standard
commercial satellite insurance provisions, including a material change
condition, that would result in the cancellation of insurance or alter the
effective rate depending upon the success or failure of other launches by
Arianespace, and customary exclusions, including for: (i) military or similar
actions; (ii) laser, directed energy, or nuclear anti-satellite devices;
(iii) insurrection and similar acts; (iv) governmental confiscation; (v) nuclear
reaction or radiation contamination; (vi) willful or intentional acts of
EchoStar or its contractors; (vii) loss of market, loss of revenue, extra
expenses, incidental and consequential damages; and (viii) third-party claims
against EchoStar.
EchoStar has procured insurance for the launch of EchoStar III and
EchoStar IV. The 1996 Indenture requires EchoStar to obtain in-orbit insurance
for EchoStar III, in an amount equal to the cost to construct, launch and insure
EchoStar III (in the case of in-orbit insurance with a deductible no greater
than 20%).
OTHER PRODUCTS AND RELATED SERVICES
EchoStar currently offers a broad range of products, from approximately
$250 DTH systems in Europe that can receive signals from only one or two
co-located satellites, to approximately $3,000 systems at retail that are
capable of receiving signals from 20 or more satellites. Principal product lines
include EchoStar-Registered Trademark-, HTS Premier-TM- and HTS Tracker-TM- name
brands, with good, better and best options typically available for each line and
each geographic reception area. EchoStar sold approximately 462,000 satellite
receivers worldwide in 1995. EchoStar's sales of DTH products are somewhat
seasonal, with higher domestic sales normally occurring in the late summer and
fall months in advance of increased consumer programming demand during the fall
and winter months.
DOMESTIC
Satellite retailers have historically sold large C-band satellite receiver
systems to consumers in rural areas through store fronts or small home-based
businesses. The decline in the number of conventional satellite retailers in the
United States, which form the core of EchoStar's distribution system, was
significant during 1995 and is expected to continue in 1996 as a result of
competition from the sale of DBS systems through consumer electronic outlets.
Those satellite retailers which are not marketing DBS systems may be
particularly vulnerable. However, new satellite retailers continue to enter the
market, which partially offsets the decline.
INTERNATIONAL
EchoStar's international product line includes a broad range of DTH and
commercial satellite equipment and accessories, including satellite receivers,
integrated receiver decoders, antennas, actuators, feeds and LNBs. During 1995,
the equipment was distributed, primarily with the EchoStar-Registered Trademark-
brand name, through EchoStar's distribution centers. EchoStar's products are
tailored to each country's standard television formats. In addition, on-screen
instructions and pre-programmed channels are available in a variety of
languages. EchoStar's international receivers can process C-band and Ku-band
signals with both 110- and 240-volt power sources and have been designed to
withstand the fluctuating power sources often found in developing countries.
PROGRAMMING
Since 1986, EchoStar has acquired programming directly from top
programmers, and packaged and distributed that programming throughout the United
States to C-band system users through EchoStar's independent retailer network.
EchoStar has nonexclusive affiliation agreements for the distribution of most
top programming available from domestic satellites, including CNN-Registered
Trademark-, USA-Registered Trademark-, ESPN-Registered Trademark-, TBS-TM-, The
Discovery Channel-Registered Trademark-, TNT-TM-, HBO-Registered Trademark-,
Showtime-Registered Trademark-, MTV-Registered Trademark-, A&E-Registered
Trademark-, The Disney Channel-Registered Trademark-, national networks,
"Superstations" and other "best of cable" programming.
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FINANCING
Through financing arranged by EchoStar, consumers are able to finance their
DTH-related product and service home entertainment purchases in a single
package. Credit approval is often granted while customers are still in a
dealer's showroom, and funds are customarily forwarded to dealers within
24 hours of receiving the original completed loan documents. EchoStar's consumer
financing arrangement allows "one-stop shopping" for equipment, programming and
installation services, while avoiding many of the risks inherent in financing
consumer receivables.
At present EchoStar Credit has initiated a civil action against the
Associates, one of its financing sources, alleging a breach of contract.
EchoStar Credit allege that the Associates, among other things, breached its
contract with EchoStar Credit pursuant to which Associates agreed to finance the
purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems by consumers. EchoStar Credit allege that
the Associates' refusal to finance certain prospective consumers has resulted in
the loss of approximately 700 to 1,000 customers per day to EchoStar's
competitors. In addition, EchoStar Credit allege that the loss of sales due to
the Associates action has forced EchoStar to lower the price on its products.
As a result of the actions alleged by EchoStar Credit to have been taken by the
Associates, EchoStar Credit may be forced to seek a new finance company to
finance the Purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems. There can be no assurance
that such financing will be available or that, if available, it will be
available on terms favorable to EchoStar. In addition, any material delay in
the ability of EchoStar to obtain subscribers to Dish Network programming would
negatively affect EchoStar's financial condition and results of operations. See
"Risk Factors -- Risk that Failure to Finance Consumers Will Limit Demand of
EchoStar Receiver Systems."
EchoStar also offers an option to lease DTH-related equipment for up to a
seventy-two month period, and to obtain programming during the lease term, for
one fixed monthly payment. The leases contain an annual purchase option allowing
the customer to purchase the equipment for a predetermined amount. The lease
program helps EchoStar compete more effectively and thereby increase sales and
customer loyalty.
SALES AND MARKETING
DBS
EchoStar has developed a comprehensive marketing strategy designed to
promote the EchoStar DBS System under the DISH Network-SM- brand name and
distinguish itself from cable and other DBS providers. The first phase of the
strategy is designed to build market awareness of the DISH Network-SM-,
reinforce EchoStar's historical presence in the satellite industry and focus
the market's attention on EchoStar's goal of "A Dish in Every Home."
EchoStar's marketing strategy includes national and regional broadcast
and print advertising, promoting the benefits of the DISH Network-SM-, to
support the initial nationwide product rollout. EchoStar has engaged a
national advertising agency to develop, produce and place all radio,
television and print advertising spots. The media campaign began in May 1996.
In addition, comprehensive dealer guides describing all aspects of the DISH
Network-SM- and its integrated product lines (programming, hardware,
financing and installation) were delivered to distributors during nationwide
educational seminars. EchoStar will continue offering a high level of retail
support, and will provide comprehensive point of sale literature, product
displays, demonstration kiosks and signage for retail outlets. EchoStar also
provides a promotional channel as well as a programming subscription for
in-store viewing. EchoStar's mobile sales and marketing team will visit
retail outlets on a regular basis to reinforce training and ensure
point-of-sale needs are quickly fulfilled. A DISH Network-SM- merchandise
catalogue will also be available for distributors to add to their promotional
materials.
EchoStar offers a commission program that it believes is competitive with
that offered by other DTH operators. The program pays qualified distributors and
retailers a percentage of programming revenues generated by subscribers to whom
they sell EchoStar Receiver Systems. Commissions will be earned by distributors
and retailers over an extended period and will be paid regularly.
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Following the nationwide launch of service, EchoStar has continued to
place national and regional broadcast and print advertisements, provide retail
support, and offer co-operative marketing campaigns with distributors on an
ongoing basis. One channel of programming is provided on the DISH Network-SM- to
educate subscribers on additional services and promotions.
EchoStar is utilizing its existing nationwide network of approximately
3,000 independent distributors and retailers to market and distribute EchoStar
Receiver Systems and programming services to its target markets. EchoStar is
also distributing EchoStar Receiver Systems through consumer electronics
outlets under its own brand name. EchoStar also intends to expand into other,
less traditional distribution channels. Based on its knowledge of these
distribution channels from its marketing of C-band DTH products and services
domestically over the last 15 years and its marketing of DBS products in Europe
and the United States, EchoStar believes it will be able to optimize the
marketing of its DBS products and services to distinguish itself from other DBS
suppliers.
Considerable consumer education was required to develop the market for DBS
service. The initial entrants into the DBS market have incurred the greatest
educational burden because they introduced DBS to consumers.
OTHER PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
EchoStar's DTH sales and marketing efforts are concentrated in three
geographic regions: the Americas, Europe and Asia. The corporate marketing
department, located at EchoStar's corporate headquarters in Englewood, Colorado,
supports regional efforts by coordinating research, strategy, promotion,
pricing, advertising and new product development. EchoStar focuses on marketing
and distributing its DTH products and services, programming services and
consumer financing services through its independent retailer network. EchoStar
also provides its independent retailer network with marketing support ranging
from cooperative advertising funds to customized advertising campaigns.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AND MANUFACTURING
Satellite receivers designed by EchoStar's research and development group
have won numerous awards from dealers, retailers and industry trade
publications. EchoStar's research and development personnel focus on shaping the
EchoStar-Registered Trademark- and HTS-TM- product lines to meet specific
consumer needs and to compete effectively against products designed and
manufactured by larger consumer electronics companies. In addition to
overseeing the manufacture of its own products, EchoStar has also acted as the
original equipment manufacturer of satellite receivers for other large
retailers and manufacturers. EchoStar's quality assurance standards require
all EchoStar-Registered Trademark- product models to undergo extensive testing.
EchoStar also sets and enforces product design and quality assurance
requirements at non-EchoStar manufacturing facilities in the United States,
France, Hong Kong, Korea, China, Malaysia, India and the Philippines.
COMPETITION
Each of the businesses in which EchoStar operates is highly competitive.
EchoStar's existing and potential competitors comprise a broad range of
companies offering video, audio, data, programming and entertainment services.
EchoStar also faces competition from companies offering products and services
that perform similar functions, including companies that offer hardwire cable
television products and services, wireless cable products and services, DTH
products and services, as well as DBS programming and other satellite
programming, and companies developing new technologies. Many of EchoStar's
competitors have substantially greater financial and marketing resources than
EchoStar. EchoStar expects that quality and variety of programming, quality of
picture and service and cost will be the key bases of competition. See "Risk
Factors -- Competitive Nature of the Industry."
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DBS INDUSTRY
CABLE TELEVISION. Cable television service is currently available to
approximately 90% of the approximately 96 million U.S. television households.
The cable television industry in the United States currently serves
approximately 61 million subscribers, representing approximately 64% of U.S.
television households. As an established provider of programming, cable
television is a formidable competitor for many programming services, offering 30
to 80 channels at an average monthly subscription price of approximately $33.
While cable companies service a majority of the United States television
households today, EchoStar believes the cost to cable companies to upgrade their
coaxial systems to offer expanded digital video and audio programming similar to
that to be offered by DBS operators will be at least $500 per subscriber, or
approximately $30.5 billion nationwide. Upgrading those systems to fiber optic
technology could require a substantially greater investment. Such upgrades, if
undertaken, are expected to take five to ten years to complete industry-wide. As
a result, EchoStar believes that there will be a substantial delay before cable
systems can offer programming services equivalent to satellite television
providers on a national basis and that many cable systems may never be upgraded.
EchoStar intends to specifically target markets served by such systems.
The DISH Network-SM- will encounter a number of difficulties competing with
cable television technology and substantial competition is expected in the
overall market for television households. Cable television has an entrenched
position in the domestic consumer marketplace. EchoStar believes that
anticipated advances of cable television, such as interactivity and expanded
channel capacity, may not be widely available in the near term at a reasonable
cost to the consumer. If the substantial capital costs of those advances, when
available, are passed on to the consumer, it will ultimately enhance the
attractiveness of low cost DBS programming.
Up-front costs are also a potential disadvantage of a DBS system. The
initial cost required to receive DISH Network-SM- programming may reduce the
demand for EchoStar Receiver Systems, since EchoStar Receiver Systems must be
purchased, while cable and certain of EchoStar's satellite competitors lease
their equipment to the consumer with little if any initial hardware payment
required. Although the initial retail price of an EchoStar Receiver System
before the $199 Promotion was between approximately $499 and $599, depending
on the features selected by the customer, among other factors, EchoStar
believes that technological advances and market growth of DBS will eventually
reduce the retail cost of DBS receiving equipment. EchoStar intends to
mitigate this disadvantage by offering lease and finance options structured
to produce minimum monthly payments competitive with cable rates. In
addition, EchoStar is currently offering the $199 Promotion nationwide.
The price of the annual programming package of DISH Network-SM- service
included in the $199 Promotion is $300, which is comparable to the price of
a similar package of annual cable programming. While this promotion will
significantly increase EchoStar's investment in its subscriber base, EchoStar
believes that the increase in subscribers to its DISH Network-SM- and the
corresponding increase in DBS programming revenue in future periods,
resulting from this promotion, will be more than sufficient to recover the
investment in subscriber acquisition costs . See "Risk Factors -- Possible
Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock from NASDAQ."
Since reception of DBS signals requires line of sight to the satellite,
it may not be possible for some households served by cable to receive DBS
signals. In addition, the DISH Network-SM- will not be available to
households in apartment complexes, or other multiple dwelling units that do
not facilitate or allow the installation of the EchoStar Receiver System.
Many of the largest cable systems in the United States have announced plans
to offer access to telephony services through their existing cable equipment,
and have entered into agreements with major telephony providers to further these
efforts. In some cases, certain cable systems have actually commenced trials. If
these trials are
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successful, many consumers may find cable service to be more
attractive than DBS for the reception of programming.
OTHER DBS OPERATORS. In addition to EchoStar, several other companies have
DBS authorizations and are positioned to compete with EchoStar for home
satellite subscribers. DirecTv has channel assignments at what is recognized as
a strategic orbital slot due to its position over the central United States.
DirecTv successfully launched its first DBS satellite in December 1993, its
second satellite in August 1994 and a third satellite in June 1995 as an
in-orbit spare. That satellite might also be operated by DirecTv to provide
additional capacity, thereby making DirecTv more attractive to potential
consumers. USSB owns five transponders on DirecTv's first satellite and offers a
programming service separate from DirecTv's service, with programming not
available from DirecTv. Affiliates of the National Rural Telecommunications
Cooperative have acquired territories in rural areas of the United States as
distributors of DirecTv programming.
AT&T and DirecTv have an exclusive agreement for AT&T to market and
distribute DirecTv's DBS service. As part of the agreement, AT&T made an initial
investment of approximately $137.5 million to acquire 2.5% of the equity of
DirecTv with an option to increase its investment to up to 30% over five years.
This agreement provides a significant base of potential customers for the
DirecTv DBS system and allows AT&T and DirecTv to offer customers a package of
digital entertainment and communications services. As a result, EchoStar is at a
competitive disadvantage marketing to these customers. AT&T and DirecTv also
announced plans to jointly develop new multi-media services for DirecTv under
the agreement. The AT&T and DirecTv agreement will increase the competition
EchoStar encounters in the overall market for pay television customers.
In the FCC auction, MCI entered the winning bid of $682.5 million to
acquire the permit for 28 of 32 frequencies at the 110DEG. WL orbital slot. MCI
and News announced that they have formed a joint venture to build and operate a
DBS system at 110DEG. WL. The permit will give MCI and News the capacity to
offer over 200 channels of digital video programming. MCI is expected to take
responsibility for developing business communication services and News is
expected to be responsible for consumer services. MCI and News expect that
building and launching the satellites for their system will cost an additional
$1 billion and that DBS services will be offered to consumers and businesses in
approximately two years. However, if MCI and News acquire satellites which have
already been constructed, service could begin sooner. MCI and News have
substantially greater resources than EchoStar and their joint venture will
increase the competition EchoStar encounters in the overall market for pay
television customers.
PrimeStar currently offers medium power Ku-band programming service to
customers using dishes approximately three feet in diameter. In addition,
PrimeStar is believed to be the programming operator that will utilize existing
DBS authorizations of Tempo DBS, Inc. ("Tempo"). TCI, which is the largest cable
television company in the United States, is currently constructing two
satellites that will be ready for launch in 1996 and either of which could be
utilized to offer DBS service from Tempo's orbital slot at 119DEG. WL.
PrimeStar has the right to offer DBS programming services from these satellites.
Alternatively, PrimeStar may offer FSS service via its satellites provided by GE
Americom or others. In mid-1994, TCI and Tempo entered into an agreement with
Advanced Communications Corporation ("Advanced") whereby Tempo would purchase
Advanced's FCC permit at 110DEG. WL and lease the capacity available under the
permit to PrimeStar. In October 1995, however, the FCC revoked Advanced's permit
and announced its intention to auction Advanced's DBS channels in January 1996.
Appeals are currently pending relating to the FCC's action and EchoStar is
unable to predict the outcome of such litigation. It is possible Advanced or
other parties may prevail in their appeals challenging the FCC's decision to
reclaim Advanced's frequencies at 110DEG. WL and 148DEG. WL and, if they do,
any award of a construction permit by virtue of the FCC Auction may be
rescinded. If PrimeStar successfully launches a high-power DBS satellite, it
will become a more significant competitor, as it would have the ability to offer
its programming through a high-power DBS system similar to that offered by
EchoStar. If PrimeStar does not exercise its right, it is expected that TCI will
use these satellites to directly enter the DBS programming business, and may
launch satellites capable of providing service to the continental United States
during 1996. EchoStar is at a competitive disadvantage to PrimeStar with regard
to market entry, programming and, possibly, volume discounts for programming
offerings, particularly if programming vendors aggregate
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PrimeStar's DBS customers and cable customers of the PrimeStar partners to
obtain volume discounts from programming vendors.
DirecTv, USSB and PrimeStar have instituted aggressive promotional
campaigns marketing their respective DBS and Ku-band service. Their marketing
efforts have focused on the breadth of popular programming and cost of service.
In the case of DirecTv and USSB, their marketing efforts have been joined by
AT&T, RCA, Sony Electronics, Inc. and other manufacturers which market DBS
receivers and related components. Several other manufacturers have begun or are
expected to begin manufacturing such equipment, including Uniden America Corp.,
Toshiba America Consumer Products, Inc. and Hughes Network Systems, Inc.
PrimeStar currently offers a lease program whereby consumers can lease a
PrimeStar system for as little as approximately $1.00 per day (including
approximately thirty channels of programming). PrimeStar's lease program is
widely credited for the recent success of PrimeStar's Ku-band service. EchoStar
currently expects to offer a comparable program to finance or lease an EchoStar
Receiver System.
DirecTv and USSB together offer approximately 200 channels of DBS video
programming. EchoStar currently has the capacity to provide approximately 100
channels of video programming, increasing to at least 200 channels of high
quality video and audio programming at the time EchoStar II is fully
operational. Due to their substantially greater resources, earlier market entry,
greater number of channels, manufacturing alliances with low cost, high volume
manufacturers with established retail distribution, possible volume discounts
for programming offerings, and, in the case of PrimeStar, relationship with
cable programmers, EchoStar is at a competitive disadvantage to DirecTv, USSB
and PrimeStar. EchoStar believes that it can successfully compete with these
companies given, among other things, EchoStar's: (i) lower cost structure;
(ii) programming strategy; (iii) established dealer network; (iv) second
generation digital technology, which incorporates world standard full MPEG-2
technology; and (v) intent to license the manufacture of EchoStar Receiver
Systems to multiple manufacturers.
According to trade publications, as of September 1996, DirecTv had
approximately 1.8 million subscribers, approximately one-half of whom
subscribed to USSB programming, and PrimeStar had approximately 1.4 million
subscribers. As a result of the success achieved by each of these programming
providers, EchoStar may find it difficult to successfully compete and attract
sufficient subscribers to achieve profitability.
During March 1996, AlphaStar Television Network which is owned by Tee-Comm,
began offering DTH programming in the United States on a limited basis, and
intends to expand to 120 channels later this year, and 200 channels by the end
of 1997. The service uses MPEG-2/DVB digital compression technology to receive
medium power Ku-band signals via 24 to 36 inch dishes. Although compliance with
certain regulatory requirements is necessary for the commencement of service by
a Canadian company, the entry of an additional programming provider will result
in additional competition for subscribers.
The FCC indicated that it intends to apply to the ITU for additional
orbital locations for use to provide DBS service to the United States. Canada,
Mexico and other countries hold the rights to DBS orbital slots which are
capable of providing service to the United States. If the FCC moves forward with
this initiative or if other countries authorize DBS providers to utilize their
orbital slots to serve the United States, additional competition could be
created, and EchoStar's spectrum could become less valuable. At this time,
EchoStar cannot predict whether the FCC will move forward with this initiative,
whether other countries will authorize DBS providers to utilize their orbital
slots to serve the United States or whether the FCC initiative or authorizations
by other countries will ultimately result in any additional service to the
United States.
The FCC on January 22, 1996, announced its decision to authorize U.S.
licensed FSS operators which currently operate internationally to provide wholly
domestic service in the United States. The FCC also announced its intention to
address at a later date issues relating to the provision of wholly domestic U.S.
service by signals originating in foreign countries, whether via U.S. or
non-U.S. satellites. In the event U.S. licensed FSS operators which currently
operate internationally decide to provide programming wholly in the United
States or that non-U.S. licensed operators are permitted to provide programming
to the United States, the number of competitors offering DTH service in the
United States may increase.
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WIRELESS CABLE AND OTHER MICROWAVE SYSTEMS. There are approximately 180
wireless cable systems presently operating in the United States. Wireless cable
served approximately 710,000 subscribers at the end of 1995. Typically, these
systems offer 20 to 40 channels of programming, which may include local
programming; however, these systems will require large capital expenditures to
upgrade to digital compression technology to compete effectively with DBS.
Wireless cable also requires direct line of sight from the receiver to the
transmitter tower, which creates the potential for substantial interference from
terrain, buildings and foliage in the line of sight. Certain wireless cable
companies may become more competitive as a result of recently announced
affiliations with telephone companies. Bell Atlantic Corporation and NYNEX
Corporation have invested $100 million in CAI Wireless Systems, Inc. Also,
Pacific Telesis Group has purchased 100% of the equity of Cross Country
Wireless.
TELEPHONE COMPANIES. Certain regional telephone operating companies and
long distance telephone companies could become significant competitors in the
future, as they have expressed an interest in becoming subscription television
and information providers. The legislation recently passed by Congress permits
these local telephone companies to provide high-power DBS service, although any
telephone company desiring to become a high-power DBS broadcaster would still
need to obtain an FCC license for an available orbital location. Certain
telephone companies have received authorization to begin test marketing video
and other services to their customers in limited geographic areas using fiber
optic cable and digital compression over existing telephone lines. The
legislation recently passed by Congress removes barriers to entry which
previously inhibited, or made it more difficult, for telephone companies to
compete in the provision of video programming and information services. As more
telephone companies begin to provide cable programming and other information and
communications services to their customers, additional significant competition
for subscribers will develop. Among other things, telephone companies have an
existing relationship with substantially every household in their service area,
substantial economic resources, and an existing infrastructure and may be able
to subsidize the delivery of programming through their position as the sole
source of telephone service to the home.
VHF/UHF BROADCASTERS. Most areas of the United States are covered by
traditional terrestrial VHF/UHF broadcasts that typically offer three to ten
channels. These broadcasters are often low to medium power operators with a
limited coverage area and provide local, network and syndicated programming. The
local content nature of the programming may be important to the consumer, and
VHF/UHF programming is typically free of charge. Congress is expected to
consider the release of additional digital spectrum for use by these
broadcasters later this year.
DTH INDUSTRY
DTH PRODUCTS. EchoStar faces competition in the sale of satellite
receivers in North America from other manufacturers and from other distributors.
The North American market is dominated by EchoStar, General Instrument
Corporation and Uniden America Corp.
Most major manufacturers of satellite receivers in North America offer a
variety of models, from relatively low priced units to more expensive receivers
with a greater number of features. There are few patented components in DTH
systems. Competition in the sale of DTH products occurs primarily on quality,
price, service, marketing and features. EchoStar believes that it generally
competes effectively in all of these areas. In recent years, EchoStar has
consistently been highly rated in most of these categories by polls conducted by
industry trade publications.
EchoStar also faces competition in the distribution of DTH systems from
approximately 30 distributors in North America. The large number of distributors
creates intense competition, primarily on price, marketing and service. EchoStar
responds to that competition by offering 24-hour turnaround time on repairs,
same day order fulfillment and what it believes to be one of the top satellite
retailer incentive programs in the industry.
In addition, EchoStar competes against DBS technology and medium power
Ku-band DTH systems. DBS and medium power Ku-band satellites use Ku-band
frequencies that can be received by significantly smaller dishes and less
expensive systems than C-band satellite systems. As a result of the smaller dish
size, DBS and medium power Ku-band systems are more widely accepted than C-band
systems, particularly in urban areas. DBS
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and medium power Ku-band competition have negatively affected, and will
continue to negatively affect, C-band sales. However, EchoStar believes that
many consumers may continue to choose to purchase C-band systems for the next
several years because of the remaining orbital life of existing C-band
satellites, the amount and quality of programming available and the
continuing marketing efforts by programmers and others designed to attract
and retain C-band subscribers, among other factors. The decline in C-band
sales by EchoStar was partially offset in 1994 and 1995 by the sale of
Competitor DBS Receivers, which EchoStar distributed in 18 states. During
the first six months of 1996, the decline in C-band sales has been more than
offset by sales of EchoStar Receiver Systems and, to a lesser extent, sales
of Competitor DBS Receivers.
Internationally, EchoStar competes against a variety of manufacturers and
distributors in different countries. In certain regions, EchoStar has a small
market share, while in others, such as Africa, EchoStar believes that it has a
larger market share than any of its competitors. In some markets, EchoStar
cannot effectively compete due to local restrictions on foreign companies and
due to the necessity of using proprietary products for which EchoStar does not
hold licenses.
DTH PROGRAMMING. EchoStar competes with many large DTH program packages,
some of whom are affiliated with well known, large program originators, and some
of whom are affiliated with cable operators. EchoStar competes by offering
promotional programming packages in conjunction with its sales of DTH systems.
Since a significant portion of EchoStar's programming sales are generated
through DTH retailers, EchoStar also competes for retailer relationships on the
basis of commission rates and quality of service offered to the retailer and its
customers. In addition, the programming market faces competition from cable
television as well as emerging technologies such as DBS services, multichannel,
multipoint distribution systems and others. The largest competitors of EchoStar
in programming distribution include NetLink Satellite USA, owned by TCI,
SuperStar Satellite Entertainment, National Programming Service, Turner Home
Satellite, Inc., HBO Direct, Inc. and Showtime Satellite Networks. These
competitors have substantially greater financial resources than EchoStar, have
substantially more subscribers, and are therefore able to obtain more favorable
pricing from programmers compared to EchoStar.
DTH FINANCING AND LEASING. EchoStar currently offers financing and leasing
options in conjunction with its DTH products and services. Other equipment
manufacturers and distributors also offer financing to consumers who purchase
their products and services. At times, certain of EchoStar's competitors have
offered consumers longer amortizations of their loans than EchoStar has offered.
Long amortizations are popular with DTH retailers, who can then offer the
consumer a lower monthly payment, or a more expensive system for the same
payment. EchoStar has experienced a decline in financing revenue due partially
to the longer loan amortizations offered by some of EchoStar's competitors. With
its financing arrangements with national banks and a leasing organization,
EchoStar is able to make available financing which it believes is competitive
with that available from its competitors. See "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
GENERAL
Authorizations and permits issued by the FCC and foreign regulatory
agencies performing similar functions are required for the operation of
satellites and other components of the EchoStar DBS System, and the sale of
satellite receivers and other EchoStar-Registered Trademark- products in the
United States and certain foreign countries. In addition, as the prospective
operator of a privately owned United States satellite system, EchoStar is
subject to the regulatory authority of the FCC and the International Radio
Regulations promulgated by the ITU. As a distributor of television programming,
EchoStar is also affected by numerous laws and regulations, including the
Communications Act. EchoStar believes that it remains free to set prices and
serve customers according to its business judgment, without rate regulation or
the statutory obligation under Title II of the Communications Act to avoid undue
discrimination among customers, but pursuant to the recently passed
telecommunications legislation, EchoStar may be classified as a
telecommunications carrier subject to Title II. While EchoStar believes that it
is unlikely that such reclassification would increase substantially the
regulatory burdens imposed
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on EchoStar or have an adverse impact on EchoStar's DBS operations, there can
be no assurance in this regard. EchoStar also requires import and general
destination export licenses issued by the United States Department of
Commerce for the delivery of its manufactured products to overseas
destinations. Finally, because EchoStar has engaged a foreign launch provider
for EchoStar IV, United States export regulations apply to the delivery of
the satellite and to providing related technical information to the launch
provider.
While EchoStar has generally been successful to date in connection with
regulatory compliance matters, there can be no assurance that EchoStar will
succeed in obtaining or maintaining all requisite regulatory approvals for its
operations, or that it will do so without the imposition of conditions or
restrictions on EchoStar.
FCC PERMITS AND LICENSES
As the operator of a DBS system, EchoStar is subject to FCC jurisdiction
and review primarily for: (i) authorization of individual satellites (i.e.,
meeting minimum financial, legal and technical standards) and earth stations;
(ii) avoiding interference with other radio frequency emitters; (iii) complying
with rules the FCC has established specifically for holders of U.S. DBS
satellite authorizations and receivers; and (iv) complying with applicable
provisions of the Communications Act. The FCC has granted a conditional
satellite construction permit to EchoStar for two satellites. It has assigned
eleven specified frequencies for EchoStar I at an orbital slot at 119DEG. WL.
EchoStar's subsidiary DirectSat, has a conditional permit for ten additional
frequencies at the same orbital location, one frequency at 110DEG. WL and
eleven frequencies at 175DEG. WL. These permits are conditioned on satisfaction
of ongoing construction and related obligations. There can be no assurance that
EchoStar and DirectSat will be able to comply with the FCC's due diligence
obligations or that the FCC will determine that they have complied with such due
diligence obligations. DirectSat's and EchoStar's permits and extension requests
have been and may continue to be contested in FCC proceedings and in court by
Dominion, PrimeStar, Advanced, Tempo, MCI, DirecTv and others.
In November 1994, the FCC approved a merger of DirectSat with a wholly
owned subsidiary of EchoStar. While Dominion filed what it styled as comments
objecting to the merger, the FCC issued an order approving the merger and
EchoStar believes that the likelihood of unfavorable reconsideration of the
order approving the merger is unlikely. The FCC's DBS rules require, among
other diligence obligations, that a DBS permittee place its satellite system in
operation within six years following the initial grant of a construction permit.
By an Order released January 11, 1996 in File No. 129 -SAT-EXT-95, the
International Bureau of the FCC granted an extension of EchoStar's permit to
August 15, 1996 with respect to the 119DEG. WL orbital location. It deferred
decision on EchoStar's request for an extension of time with respect to its
western satellite pending the FCC's analysis of EchoStar's 1992 due diligence
showing for that location. By separate Order released January 11, 1996, File No.
DBS-88-1, the FCC's International Bureau conditionally granted EchoStar launch
and positioning authority for EchoStar I. On February 12, 1996, EchoStar filed
an application for a license to operate EchoStar I. EchoStar certified that the
in-orbit operations of the satellite fully conform to the specifications set
forth in its application as modified and in the FCC launch authorization, with
only one exception: the satellite is currently located at 119.0DEG. WL instead
of 119.2DEG. WL. By order of the International Bureau released March 4, 1996,
EchoStar was granted special temporary authority to operate at that location
until the launch of EchoStar II or until August 31, 1996, whichever is earlier,
subject to the condition that it cause no harmful interference to other
satellites. By order of the International Bureau released on the same date,
EchoStar was initially granted an STA to operate all 16 transponders on
EchoStar I, until August 31, 1996, subject to the same non-interference
condition. The EchoStar I STA was extended to September 30, 1996. While the
FCC has granted EchoStar conditional authority to use C-band frequencies for
TT&C functions for EchoStar I, stating that the required coordination process
with Canada and
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Mexico has been completed, the FCC subsequently received a communication from
an official of the Ministry of Communications and Transportation of Mexico
stating that EchoStar I's TT&C operations could cause unacceptable
interference to Mexican satellites. While EchoStar believes that it is
unlikely that the FCC will subsequently require EchoStar to relinquish use of
such C-band frequencies for TT&C purposes, there can be no assurances that
such objections will not subsequently require EchoStar to relinquish the use
of such C-band frequencies for TT&C purposes.
Among other regulatory requirements, the DBS systems of EchoStar and
DirectSat are required to conform to the ITU Region 2 Plan for the Broadcast
Satellite Service ("BSS Plan"). Any operations that are not consistent with the
BSS Plan (including, among other things, digital transmission), can only be
authorized on a non-interference basis pending successful modification of the
BSS Plan or the agreement of all affected administrations to the non-conforming
operations. Accordingly, unless and until the BSS Plan is modified to include
the technical parameters of a DBS applicant's operations, non-standard
satellites must not cause harmful electrical interference to, and are not
entitled to any protection from, interference caused by other assignments that
are in conformance with the BSS Plan.
By a separate Order released January 11, 1996 in File No. 131 -SAT-EXT-95,
the International Bureau extended the construction permit of DirectSat to
August 15, 1999. This grant was subject to the condition that DirectSat make
significant progress toward construction and operation of its DBS system
substantially in compliance with the timetable submitted pursuant to Amendment
No. 7 of its satellite construction contract, dated June 17, 1995, or with a
more expedited timetable. The International Bureau also urged DirectSat to
expedite construction and launch of additional satellites for its DBS system.
PrimeStar has filed an application for review requesting that the FCC reverse
the International Bureau's decision to extend DirectSat's construction permit.
See "-- Operation of the EchoStar DBS System -- DBS and Other Permits" and
"-- Legal Proceedings."
The FCC has also declared that it will carefully monitor the semi-annual
reports required to be filed by DBS permittees. Failure of EchoStar or DirectSat
to file adequate semi-annual reports or to demonstrate progress in the
construction of their DBS systems may result in cancellation of their permits.
With respect to DirectSat, a request for launch authority, as well as for a
minor modification to DirectSat's construction permit and removal of conditions,
was filed with the FCC prior to the merger with EchoStar and remains pending. An
application to change frequencies for TT&C services is also pending and has been
opposed by Advanced and Dominion. Additional technical amendments may also be
required to be filed with the FCC. While opposition to these applications have
been filed, and will be filed in the future in the event of further amendments,
EchoStar expects that the necessary approvals for EchoStar II will be timely
obtained. EchoStar also intends to file an application for a license to operate
EchoStar II in orbit once EchoStar II is launched successfully.
EchoStar currently owns approximately 40% of the outstanding common stock
of DBSC, which holds a conditional satellite construction permit and specific
orbital slot assignments for eleven DBS frequencies at each of 61.5DEG. WL and
175DEG. WL. EchoStar expects to acquire 100% of DBSC pursuant to the Merger.
The Merger has been approved by DBSC's shareholders and the FCC. A timely
objection to the Merger was filed by the CPT with the FCC. CPT contended in its
objection that the Merger would permit EchoStar to acquire a dominant and
anticompetitive position in the DBS marketplace by aggregating an excessive
number of DBS channels. A letter objecting to the Merger was filed also
subsequently by the CPT and another public interest group. This letter raised
the same issues as the CPT's earlier objection. Although FCC Approval for the
Merger was obtained on August 30, 1996, CPT may seek reconsideration, full FCC
review or judicial review of the grant of the Merger application. Assuming
consummation of the Merger, EchoStar will hold, through its DBSC subsidiary, the
construction permit and slot assignments for these frequencies. See "-- DBS and
Related Services -- DBS and Other Permits."
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The licenses which the FCC issues for an operational DBS system to use
frequencies at a specified orbital location are for a term of ten years. At the
expiration of the initial license term, the FCC may renew the satellite
operator's license or authorize the operator to operate for a period of time on
special authority, but there is no assurance that the FCC will take such
actions. EchoStar also requires FCC authority to operate earth stations,
including the earth stations necessary to uplink programming to its satellites.
FCC AUCTION RULES
EchoStar submitted the winning bid for the 148DEG. WL frequencies and has
paid the required $10.5 million down payment. EchoStar has also filed the
"long-form" application for a construction permit required of the winning
bidder. EchoStar's application was placed on public notice on March 6, 1996,
triggering a filing window of 30 days for members of the public, including
EchoStar's competitors, to file petitions to dismiss or deny the application. No
parties have objected to the application, but to date the FCC has not granted
the application. EchoStar must submit the balance of its bid within five
business days of the grant of its application by the FCC. If the FCC grants
EchoStar's application, parties may seek FCC review or reconsideration and/or
judicial review of the FCC's action.
The FCC has imposed stringent disclosure obligations on a winning bidder
that seeks to transfer a DBS license acquired through competitive bidding within
six years of the initial permit grant. Together with its application seeking
approval of such a transfer, the winning bidder must submit all contracts and
related documents and full information on all agreed-upon consideration
negotiated with the purchase.
DBS RULES
The FCC has also promulgated the following new rules:
- The term of DBS licenses has been extended from 5 to 10 years;
- In addition to the pre-existing construction and operation milestones,
holders of new permits must complete construction of the first
satellite in their system within four years of authorization and
their entire systems within six years;
- The holders of new authorizations must provide DBS service to Alaska
and Hawaii where such service is technically feasible from the
acquired orbital locations (service to Alaska and Hawaii from
148DEG. WL is presumed feasible);
- Those holding DBS permits as of the effective date of the rules must
either provide DBS service to Hawaii or Alaska from at least one
of their orbital locations or relinquish their western
assignments; and
- A DBS licensee must begin DBS operations within five years of receipt
of its license, but may otherwise make unrestricted use of the
spectrum for non-DBS purposes during that time. After the first
five years, the licensee may continue to provide non-DBS service
so long as at least half of its total capacity at a given orbital
location is used each day for DBS.
PENDING APPEALS
Several parties, including EchoStar, DBSC and DirectSat, have petitioned
the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to review on a variety of grounds
the FCC's Report & Order which determined to auction frequencies at 110DEG. WL
and 148DEG. WL. Several other parties have also appealed a related Order where
the FCC reclaimed the channels that were auctioned from another DBS permittee,
Advanced, for failing to construct its satellites in a timely manner. The Court
has denied review of the FCC Order reclaiming channels at 110DEG. WL and
148DEG. WL. Review of the Report & Order may result in invalidation of the FCC
Auction in whole or in part. In such a case, the FCC may be compelled to conduct
a new auction, rescind
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the construction permits for the channels which were auctioned or
consider alternative means of assigning available DBS channels.
A timely objection to the Merger was filed by CPT with the FCC. CPT and
another public interest organization filed a joint letter at the FCC
challenging the Merger. Although FCC Approval for the Merger was obtained on
August 30, 1996, CPT may seek reconsideration, full FCC review or judicial
review of the grant of the Merger application.
THE CABLE ACT
In addition to regulating pricing practices and competition within the
franchise cable television industry, the Cable Act was intended to establish and
support existing and new multi-channel video services, such as "wireless" cable
and DBS, to provide television programming.
Although EchoStar can provide no assurance as to the impact of the Cable
Act and amendments thereto on its businesses, EchoStar believes that the overall
effects on its present operations and its proposed DBS operation will be
positive. EchoStar expects to benefit from the programming access provision of
the Cable Act in that it will be able to gain access to previously unavailable
programming services and may obtain reduced costs for certain programming
services. Any amendment to, or interpretation of, the Cable Act that permits the
cable companies or entities affiliated with cable companies to discriminate
against competitors such as EchoStar in making available programming could
adversely affect EchoStar's ability to acquire programming on a cost-effective
basis. Certain of the restrictions on cable affiliated programmers will expire
in 2002 unless the FCC extends them.
EXPORT REGULATION
From time to time, EchoStar requires import licenses and general
destination export licenses to receive and deliver components of DTH systems.
EchoStar has contracted with LKE for the launch of EchoStar IV from the Kazakh
Republic, a territory of the former Soviet Union. Export licenses will be
required to be obtained from the Department of Commerce for the transport of any
satellites to the Kazakh Republic. Lockheed Martin will be required to obtain
technical data exchange licenses from the Department of Commerce permitting the
exchange between Lockheed Martin and LKE of certain information necessary to
prepare the satellites for launch. No assurances can be given that the data
exchange or export licenses will be granted, or that implementation of the Trade
Agreement will not negatively affect EchoStar's ability to launch EchoStar IV on
a Proton launch vehicle. LKE has advised EchoStar, however, that, while no
assurances can be given, it believes the necessary technical data and hardware
export licenses can be obtained in time for the first scheduled launch of an
EchoStar satellite. There can be no assurance those licenses can be obtained in
a timely manner to avoid a launch delay.
PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS
EchoStar uses a number of trademarks for its products and services,
including "EchoStar-Registered Trademark-," "DISH Network-Registered
Trademark-," "DISH Network-SM-," "America's Top 40-SM-," and others. Many of
these trademarks are registered by EchoStar, and those trademarks that are
not registered are generally protected by common law and state unfair
competition laws. Although EchoStar believes that these trademarks are not
essential to EchoStar's business, EchoStar has taken affirmative legal steps
to protect its trademarks in the past and intends to actively protect these
trademarks in the future.
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EchoStar is the assignee of certain patents for products and product
components manufactured and sold by EchoStar, none of which EchoStar considers
to be significant to its continuing operations. In addition, EchoStar has
obtained and, although no assurances can be given, expects to obtain, licenses
for certain patents necessary to the manufacture and sale by EchoStar and others
of DBS receivers and related components. EchoStar has been notified that certain
features of the EchoStar Receiver System allegedly infringe on patents held by
others, and that royalties are therefore required to be paid. EchoStar has
rejected the allegations of infringement and intends to vigorously defend
against any suit filed by the parties.
EMPLOYEES
EchoStar had approximately 860 employees at June 30, 1996, approximately
770 of whom worked in EchoStar's domestic operations and approximately 90 of
whom worked in EchoStar's international operations. EchoStar is not a party to
any collective bargaining agreement and considers its relations with its
employees to be good. Additional personnel will be hired to manage and operate
the EchoStar DBS System.
PROPERTIES
EchoStar owns its corporate headquarters, its Digital Broadcast Center in
Cheyenne, Wyoming and four additional locations. The following table sets forth
certain information concerning EchoStar's properties.
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<TABLE>
APPROXIMATE
SQUARE OWNED OR
DESCRIPTION LOCATION FOOTAGE LEASED
----------- -------- ----------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Corporate Headquarters and Warehouse
Distribution Center Englewood, Colorado 155,000 Owned
Office and Distribution Center Sacramento, California 78,500 Owned
Digital Broadcast Center Cheyenne, Wyoming 55,000 Owned
Call Center Thornton, Colorado 55,000 Owned
European Headquarters and Warehouse Almelo, The Netherlands 53,800 Owned
Warehouse Facility Denver, Colorado 40,000 Owned
Office and Distribution Center Bensenville, Illinois 19,000 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Miami, Florida 16,500 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Norcross, Georgia 16,000 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Dallas, Texas 11,200 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Columbia, Maryland 13,400 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Phoenix, Arizona 10,000 Leased
Asian Distribution Center Singapore 7,000 Leased
Office and Distribution Center Anaheim, California 4,300 Leased
Office Madrid, Spain 2,100 Leased
Asian Headquarters Singapore 1,900 Leased
Office Bangalore, India 1,200 Leased
Office Beijing, China 1,000 Leased
</TABLE>
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
EchoStar Credit has filed a civil action against Associates in the District
Court of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado, Civil Action No. 96 CV 1644
seeking injunctive relief together with other remedies. This action has been
removed to the Federal District Court in the District of Colorado. EchoStar
Credit allege that the Associates, among other things, breached its contract
with EchoStar Credit pursuant to which Associates agreed to finance the purchase
of EchoStar Receiver Systems by consumers. EchoStar Credit allege that the
Associates' refusal to finance certain prospective consumers has resulted in the
loss of approximately 700 to 1,000 prospective customers per day to EchoStar's
competitors. In addition, EchoStar Credit allege that the loss of sales due to
the Associates action has forced EchoStar to lower the price on its products.
As a result of the actions alleged by EchoStar Credit to have been taken by the
Associates, EchoStar Credit may be forced to seek a new finance company to
finance the purchase of EchoStar Receiver Systems. There can be no assurance
that such financing will be available or that, if available, it will be
available on terms favorable to EchoStar. In addition, any material delay in
the ability of EchoStar to obtain subscribers to Dish Network programming would
negatively affect EchoStar's financial condition and results of operations. See
"Risk Factors -- Possible Delisting of EchoStar Common Stock from NASDAQ."
EchoStar is a party to certain other legal proceedings arising in the
ordinary course of its business. EchoStar does not believe that any of these
other proceedings will have a material adverse effect on EchoStar's financial
position, results of operations or liquidity.
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MANAGEMENT
The following sets forth the name, age and offices with EchoStar of each
present executive officer of EchoStar, the period during which each executive
officer has served as such and each executive officer's business experience
during the past five years:
NAME AGE POSITION
---- --- --------
Charles W. Ergen 43 Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
Alan M. Angelich 52 Director
Raymond L. Friedlob 51 Director
James DeFranco 43 Executive Vice President and Director
R. Scott Zimmer 40 Vice President and Director
Carl E. Vogel 38 Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President
David K. Moskowitz 38 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
Steven B. Schaver 42 Chief Financial Officer
J. Allen Fears 40 Vice President, Treasurer and Controller
CHARLES W. ERGEN. Mr. Ergen has been Chairman of the Board of Directors,
Chief Executive Officer and President of EchoStar since its formation and,
during the past five years, has held various positions with EchoStar's
subsidiaries, including President and Chief Executive Officer of Echosphere,
Echonet Business Network, Inc. ("EBN") and ESC, and Director of Echosphere,
Houston Tracker Systems, Inc. ("HTS"), EchoStar International Corporation
("EIC"), ESC and EBN. Mr. Ergen, along with his spouse and James DeFranco, was a
co-founder of EchoStar in 1980. Commencing in March 1995, Mr. Ergen also became
a director of SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET"), a company principally engaged in the
manufacture and sale of satellite telecommunications equipment.
ALAN M. ANGELICH. Mr. Angelich has been a director of EchoStar and a
member of its Audit and Executive Compensation Committees since October 1995.
Mr. Angelich is presently a principal with Janco Partners, Inc., an investment
banking firm specializing in the telecommunications industry. From May 1982 to
October 1993, Mr. Angelich served in various executive capacities with Jones
Intercable, Inc., including Vice Chairman of its Board of Directors from
December 1988 to October 1993. From August 1990 to October 1993, Mr. Angelich
was also the Chief Executive Officer of Jones Capital Markets, Inc.
RAYMOND L. FRIEDLOB. Mr. Friedlob has been a director of EchoStar and a
member of its Audit and Executive Compensation Committees since October 1995.
Mr. Friedlob is presently a member of the law firm of Friedlob, Sanderson,
Raskin, Paulson & Tourtillot, LLC. Prior to 1995, Mr. Friedlob was a partner of
Raskin & Friedlob, where he had practiced since 1970. Mr. Friedlob specializes
in federal securities law, corporate law, leveraged acquisitions, mergers and
taxation.
JAMES DEFRANCO. Mr. DeFranco is an Executive Vice President of EchoStar
and has been a Vice President and a Director of EchoStar since its formation
and, during the past five years, has held various positions with EchoStar's
subsidiaries, including President of HTS, EAC and HT Ventures, Inc. ("HTV"),
Executive Vice President of ESC, Senior Vice President of Echosphere and EBN,
and Director of Satellite Source, Inc. ("SSI"), Echosphere, HTS, EAC, EBN and
HTV. Mr. DeFranco, along with Mr. Ergen and Mr. Ergen's spouse, was a co-founder
of EchoStar in 1980.
R. SCOTT ZIMMER. Mr. Zimmer has been a Vice President and a Director of
EchoStar since its formation. For the past five years, Mr. Zimmer has managed
the international operations of EchoStar and its subsidiaries.
CARL E. VOGEL. Mr. Vogel was named President of EchoStar Satellite in
November 1995 and has been EchoStar's Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer, and the President of SSI, since April 1994. Prior to joining
EchoStar, Mr. Vogel served as the Chief Executive Officer of Jones Programming
Services, Inc.,
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a company engaged principally in the acquisition and packaging of cable
programming services for distribution via cable television systems, from
January 1990 to April 1994, and the Group Vice President of Finance of Jones
International, Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries, companies engaged
principally in the cable television industry, from February 1983 to April
1994.
DAVID K. MOSKOWITZ. Mr. Moskowitz is the Senior Vice President, Secretary
and General Counsel of EchoStar. Mr. Moskowitz joined EchoStar in March 1990.
Mr. Moskowitz is responsible for all legal affairs of EchoStar and its
subsidiaries.
STEVEN B. SCHAVER. Mr. Schaver was named the Chief Financial Officer of
EchoStar in February 1996. From November 1993 to February 1996, Mr. Schaver was
the Vice President of EchoStar's European and African operations. From July 1992
to November 1993, Mr. Schaver was the Director of Sales and Marketing for
EchoStar's largest Spanish customer, Internacional de Telecomunicaciones, S.A.
in Madrid, Spain. Prior to July 1992 and since joining EchoStar in 1984, he has
held various positions with subsidiaries of EchoStar, including Vice President
of European operations. Prior to joining EchoStar Mr. Schaver was a Banking
Officer with Continental Illinois National Bank.
J. ALLEN FEARS. Mr. Fears has been the Vice President, Treasurer and
Controller of EchoStar since December 1992. Prior thereto Mr. Fears served as
Controller of all of EchoStar's subsidiaries from January 1988 to December 1992,
and as Assistant Controller of a subsidiary of EchoStar from October 1985 to
January 1988. Mr. Fears is responsible for the finance, accounting, tax and
budgeting systems of EchoStar and its subsidiaries.
There are no family relationships among the executive officers and
directors of EchoStar or arrangements or understandings between any executive
officer and any other person pursuant to which any executive officer was
selected as such. Pursuant to the Bylaws of EchoStar, executive officers serve
at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. Executive officers of EchoStar are
elected annually to serve until their respective successors are elected and
qualified.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Executive officers are compensated by certain subsidiaries of EchoStar. The
following table sets forth the cash and non-cash compensation for the
fiscal years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 of the Chief Executive
Officer of EchoStar and the next four most highly compensated executive officers
of EchoStar (collectively, the "Named Executive Officers").
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
<TABLE>
OTHER ANNUAL NUMBER OF ALL OTHER
COMPENSATION OPTIONS COMPENSATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY BONUS (1) GRANTED (2)
- --------------------------- ---- ------ ----- ------------ --------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Charles W. Ergen
Chairman, President, and
Chief Executive Officer 1995 $190,000 $ -- $ -- 14,705 $15,158
1994 177,578 -- -- 53,568 888
1993 156,000 -- -- -- 10,557
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
OTHER ANNUAL NUMBER OF ALL OTHER
COMPENSATION OPTIONS COMPENSATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY BONUS (1) GRANTED (2)
- --------------------------- ---- ------ ----- ------------ --------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
R. Scott Zimmer ............ 1995 160,000 -- 88,229 14,705 32,390
Vice President 1994 48,006 -- 74,396 42,855 18,900
1993 132,000 -- 71,458 -- 19,195
James DeFranco ............. 1995 156,923 -- -- 11,764 15,158
Vice President 1994 154,461 -- -- 42,855 1,000
1993 144,000 55,778 -- -- 10,117
Carl E. Vogel .............. 1995 150,000 -- -- 21,641 11,346
Chief Operating Officer 1994 107,308 -- -- 375,776 500
and Executive Vice 1993 -- -- -- -- --
President
David K. Moskowitz ......... 1995 130,000 10,000 -- 28,048 13,270
Senior Vice President, 1994 125,384 -- -- 53,568 1,000
Secretary and General 1993 115,000 41,833 -- -- 6,497
Counsel
</TABLE>
________________
(1) With respect to Mr. Zimmer, "Other Annual Compensation" includes housing
and car allowances related to Mr. Zimmer's overseas assignment. While
each Named Executive Officer enjoys certain other perquisites, such
perquisites do not exceed the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of each
officer's salary and bonus.
(2) "All Other Compensation" includes amounts contributed to EchoStar's 401(k)
plan and premiums paid on health insurance on behalf of the Named
Executive Officers. With respect to Mr. Zimmer "All Other Compensation"
also includes home leave and education allowances related to his
overseas assignment.
The following table provides information concerning grants of options to
purchase Class A Common Stock of EchoStar made in 1995 to the Named Executive
Officers.
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OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
<TABLE>
POTENTIAL
REALIZABLE VALUE AT
PERCENT OF ASSUMED RATES OF STOCK
NUMBER OF TOTAL OPTIONS PRICE APPRECIATION FOR
SECURITIES GRANTED TO OPTION TERM
UNDERLYING EXECUTIVE IN EXERCISE PRICE EXPIRATION ----------------------
NAME OPTIONS GRANTED 1995 PER SHARE DATE 5% 10%
- ---- --------------- ------------- -------------- ---------- ----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Charles W. Ergen 14,705(1) 3.2% $17.00 06-20-05 $407,199 $648,397
R. Scott Zimmer 14,705(1) 3.2% 17.00 06-20-05 407,199 648,397
James DeFranco 11,764(1) 2.6% 17.00 06-20-05 325,759 518,717
Carl E. Vogel 11,764(1) 2.6% 17.00 06-20-05 325,759 518,717
Carl E. Vogel 9,877(2) 2.2% 20.25 12-22-05 325,794 518,772
David K. Moskowitz 13,234(1) 2.9% 17.00 06-20-05 366,466 583,535
David K. Moskowitz 14,814(2) 3.3% 20.25 12-22-05 488,642 778,079
</TABLE>
_____________________
(1) In June 1995, EchoStar granted options to the Named Executive Officers,
among other key employees, to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock.
The options vest 20% on June 20, 1996, and 20% thereafter on June 20,
1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000. See "-- Executive Compensation -- Stock
Incentive Plan." The options expire five years from the date on which
each portion of the option first becomes exercisable, subject to early
termination in certain circumstances.
(2) In December 1995, EchoStar granted options to the Named Executive Officers,
among other key employees, to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock.
The options vest 20% on December 22, 1996, and 20% thereafter on
December 22, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000. See "-- Stock Incentive Plan."
The options expire five years from the date on which each portion of the
option first becomes exercisable, subject to early termination in
certain circumstances.
The following table provides information as of December 31, 1995,
concerning unexercised options to purchase Class A Common Stock. None of the
Named Executive Officers exercised any stock options during 1995.
FISCAL YEAR END OPTION VALUES
NUMBER OF
SECURITIES UNDERLYING VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
UNEXERCISED OPTIONS IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS
AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 (1)
--------------------------- ---------------------------
NAME EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE
Charles W. Ergen .... 10,714 57,559 $159,821 $745,864
R. Scott Zimmer ..... 8,571 48,989 127,854 618,025
James DeFranco ...... 8,571 46,048 127,854 596,703
Carl E. Vogel ....... 332,922 64,495 6,973,231 764,050
David K. Moskowitz .. 10,714 70,902 159,821 794,455
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_____________________
(1) The dollar value of each exercisable and unexercisable option was
calculated by multiplying the number of shares of Class A Common Stock
underlying the option by the difference between the exercise price of the option
and the closing price (as quoted in the Nasdaq National Market) of a share of
Class A Common Stock on December 31, 1995.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION. Prior to
October 1995, EchoStar did not have a Compensation Committee, and its Board of
Directors determined all matters concerning executive compensation.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION. Directors of EchoStar who are not also executive
officers of EchoStar receive $500 for each meeting of the Board of Directors
attended and are reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses related to attendance
at Board meetings. Directors of EchoStar are elected annually by the
stockholders of EchoStar. Directors of ESB are not compensated for their
services as directors. Directors of ESB are elected annually by EchoStar.
The Board of Directors of EchoStar has approved the Non-Employee Stock
Option Incentive Plan (the "Director Plan") pursuant to which directors who are
not also employees of EchoStar are granted options to acquire 1,000 shares of
Class A Common Stock of EchoStar upon election to the Board. The Director Plan
is being submitted to shareholders of EchoStar for approval at the 1996 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders. Subject to such approval, the Board approved issuance
of options to Messrs. Angelich and Friedlob as of December 22, 1995. These
options are 100% vested upon issuance with an exercise price of $20.25 and a
term of five years.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT. In March 1994, EchoStar entered into an employment
agreement with Carl E. Vogel, pursuant to which Mr. Vogel acts as Executive Vice
President and Chief Operating Officer of EchoStar and receives an annual salary
of $150,000. EchoStar has no employment agreements with any of its executive
officers other than Mr. Vogel.
EchoStar may terminate Mr. Vogel's employment at any time, with or without
cause, but will be required to compensate Mr. Vogel a specified amount if
EchoStar terminates his employment prior to January 1, 1997. Such compensation
will depend on the duration of Mr. Vogel's employment with EchoStar. Similarly,
Mr. Vogel may voluntarily terminate his employment with EchoStar at any time and
receive severance compensation in an amount based on the duration of his
employment with EchoStar at the time of such termination. On or after January 1,
1997, Mr. Vogel will have no right to receive any compensation from EchoStar
upon termination. For a period of one year following termination of Mr. Vogel's
employment with EchoStar, Mr. Vogel may not compete against EchoStar by working,
or acting in any other capacity, for a company in the DBS industry. Mr. Vogel
may, however, work for an affiliate of a company in the DBS industry, in a role
unrelated to that industry. Mr. Vogel also had an option to purchase 322,208
shares of Class A Common Stock of EchoStar for $3.10 per share (the "Vogel
Option"). Subsequent to December 31, 1995, Mr. Vogel has exercised the Vogel
Option.
STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN. EchoStar has adopted a stock incentive plan (the
"Incentive Plan") to provide incentives to attract and retain officers and other
key employees. EchoStar's Executive Compensation Committee administers the
Incentive Plan. Key employees are eligible to receive awards under the Incentive
Plan, in the Committee's discretion.
Awards available under the Incentive Plan include: (i) common stock
purchase options; (ii) stock appreciation rights; (iii) restricted stock and
restricted stock units; (iv) performance awards; (v) dividend equivalents; and
(vi) other stock-based awards. EchoStar has reserved up to ten million shares of
Class A Common Stock for granting awards under the Incentive Plan. Under the
terms of the Incentive Plan, the Committee retains discretion, subject to plan
limits, to modify the terms of outstanding awards and to reprice awards.
EchoStar has granted to officers and other key employees options under the
Incentive Plan for a total of 1,164,357 shares of Class A Common Stock. The
options generally vest at the rate of 20% per year commencing
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one year from the date of grant and 20% thereafter on each anniversary of the
date of grant. The exercise prices of these options range between $9.33 and
$20.25 per share.
LAUNCH BONUS PLANS. Effective December 16, 1995, EchoStar granted a
performance award of 10 shares of Class A Common Stock to all full time
employees with more than 90 days service. The total number of shares granted was
approximately 4,870 shares. Effective September 9, 1996, EchoStar granted a
performance award of 10 shares of Class A Common Stock to all full-time
employees with more than 90 days of service. The total number of shares granted
was approximately 8,000 shares.
401(K) PLAN. In 1983, EchoStar adopted a defined-contribution
tax-qualified 401(k) plan. EchoStar employees become eligible for participation
in the 401(k) plan upon completing one-half year of service with EchoStar and
reaching age 21. The 401(k) plan participants may contribute an amount equal to
not less than 1% and not more than 15% of their compensation in each
contribution period. EchoStar may make a 50% matching contribution up to a
maximum of $1,000 per participant per calendar year. EchoStar may also make an
annual discretionary profit sharing or employer stock contribution to the 401(k)
plan with the approval of the Board of Directors.
The 401(k) plan participants are immediately vested in their voluntary
contributions, plus actual earnings thereon. The balance of the vesting in the
401(k) plan participants' accounts is based on years of service. A participant
becomes 10% vested after one year of service, 20% vested after two years of
service, 30% vested after three years of service, 40% vested after four years of
service, 60% vested after five years of service, 80% vested after six years of
service and 100% vested after seven years of service.
Effective December 22, 1995, EchoStar contributed 55,000 shares of Class A
Common Stock to the 401(k) plan as a discretionary employer stock contribution.
EchoStar recognized expense, and an addition to its paid-in capital, for the
fair value (approximately $1.1 million) of the EchoStar shares contributed to
the Plan. No employee has voting or any other interest in the Class A Common
Stock unless still employed by EchoStar on December 31, 1996. Shares of the
Class A Common Stock have been allocated to the 401(k) accounts of the following
executive officers of EchoStar in accordance with the Plan: (i) Charles W.
Ergen, 699 shares; (ii) R. Scott Zimmer, 699 shares; (iii) James DeFranco, 699
shares; (iv) Carl E. Vogel, 511 shares; (v) David K. Moskowitz, 605 shares; and
(vi) all officers and directors as a group, 5,272 shares.
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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Certain subsidiaries of EchoStar have agreed to indemnify Charles W. Ergen,
Chief Executive Officer and President of EchoStar, James DeFranco, a Vice
President of EchoStar, R. Scott Zimmer, a Vice President of EchoStar, and Cantey
M. Ergen, a former Director of HTS and the spouse of Charles W. Ergen, for any
adjustments to such individuals' federal, state or local income taxes resulting
from adjustments to EchoStar's subsidiaries' taxable income or loss, tax credits
or tax credit recapture for years during which such individuals were
stockholders of such subsidiaries and such subsidiaries elected to be taxed as
Subchapter S corporations. This indemnity agreement also covers interest,
penalties and additions to tax, as well as fees and expenses, including
attorneys' and accountants' fees, if any.
Charles W. Ergen beneficially owns 10% of the stock of Wright Travel
Corporation ("Wright Travel"), a privately held travel agency which EchoStar
uses for its travel arrangements and which leases office space from EchoStar.
For the year ended December 31, 1995, EchoStar paid approximately $769,000 to
Wright Travel. These payments were primarily related to travel expenses, large
events and seminars that were contracted with Wright Travel at rates comparable
to those obtainable from independent third parties. In 1995, EchoStar earned
approximately $27,000 from the lease by Wright Travel of office space from
EchoStar, which amount was offset by approximately $10,000 required to be
credited by EchoStar to Wright Travel for the exclusive services of an employee
of Wright Travel.
EchoStar issued a long-term promissory note (the "Ergen Note") payable to
Charles W. Ergen in the principal amount of $14.7 million as of December 31,
1993. The proceeds of the Ergen Note were used to make payments toward the
construction and launch of EchoStar I. (see Note 6 of Notes to EchoStar's
Financial Statements). In connection with the 1994 Notes Offering, Dish, Ltd.
exchanged shares of its Series A Preferred Stock for the Ergen Note and accrued
interest thereon at the rate of 10% per annum. Subsequent to the exchange,
Mr. Ergen sold five percent of his Series A Preferred Stock of Dish, Ltd. to
James DeFranco for $753,000. In 1995, Series A Preferred Stock of EchoStar was
issued in exchange for Series A Preferred Stock of Dish, Ltd. Pursuant to the
1994 Indenture, dividends may be paid on the Series A Preferred Stock of
EchoStar only if certain conditions are satisfied. See "Description of Certain
Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes." As of December 31, 1995, dividends accrued but
unpaid on the Dish, Ltd. Series A Preferred Stock and the Series A Preferred
Stock of EchoStar to Mr. Ergen and Mr. DeFranco, respectively, aggregated
$2.0 million and $107,000.
Since March 1995, Mr. Ergen has served on the Board of Directors of SSET.
In 1994, EchoStar provided SSET with $8.75 million of financing through the
issuance by SSET to EchoStar of its seven-year, 6.5% subordinated convertible
non-recourse debentures, which are convertible into approximately 12% of SSET's
outstanding common stock, based on the number of shares of SSET common stock
outstanding at December 31, 1995. On September 6, 1996, SSET repurchased $3.5
million of the outstanding convertible debentures and paid all outstanding
accrued interest through that date. EchoStar also purchased all of SSET's
minority interest in DBSC and certain notes and accounts payable by DBSC to SSET
for $1.25 million. In connection with these transactions, Mr. Ergen advanced
$4.0 million to EchoStar, all of which was used to purchase convertible
debentures and certain assets of SSET. These advances were represented by a
promissory note bearing interest at 8% per annum and were repaid in June 1994
from the proceeds of the 1994 Notes Offering.
In December 1994, DirectSat, a subsidiary of SSET, was merged with a wholly
owned subsidiary of EchoStar. As a result of this merger, SSET acquired
800,780 shares of EchoStar's Class A Common Stock. Daniel E. Moore, Secretary
and a Director of DBSC, is Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and a
Director of SSET. Mr. Moore became Secretary and a Director of DBSC in
September 1995.
On July 18, 1996, the satellite construction contracts for construction of
EchoStar I, EchoStar II and EchoStar III were amended by the parties thereto
(the "Satellite Amendments"). Prior to July 18, 1996, certain post-launch
payments to Lockheed Martin by ESC for construction of EchoStar I, DirectSat for
construction of EchoStar II and DBSC for construction of EchoStar III were to be
secured by letters of credit from reputable financial institutions, and, with
respect to EchoStar I and EchoStar II, by shares of EchoStar's 8% Series A
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Cumulative Preferred Stock held of record by Charles W. Ergen. Subject to the
Satellite Amendments, the post-launch payments due from ESC, DirectSat and DBSC
are now secured by a written corporate guarantee by EchoStar and not by letters
of credit. In addition, effective December 31, 1996 and on each subsequent June
30 and December 31, certain of the shares of EchoStar's 8% Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock owned by Mr. Ergen and held in escrow will be released upon the
total outstanding post-launch payments due and the price of the EchoStar Common
Stock as quoted on NASDAQ.
In 1995 and 1996 EchoStar purchased an aggregate of $4.0 million of DBSI's
convertible subordinated debentures, of which $1.0 million are due July 1, 1998,
and $3.0 million are due January 12, 1999. The debentures are secured by
125,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock and 2,000 shares of common stock of E-SAT
Corporation which is currently owned 80% by EchoStar. Fred W. Thompson, a
director of DBSC, is President, a Director and a significant shareholder of
DBSI.
Pursuant to the Loan Agreements, EchoStar agreed to purchase from DBSC
$16.0 million in principal amount of promissory notes of DBSC and, in EchoStar's
sole and absolute discretion, up to an additional $134.0 million principal
amount of promissory notes, the proceeds from which are to be used by DBSC to
make certain payments to Lockheed Martin under the DBSC Satellite Contract and
to make deposits towards launch reservations. As of the date of this Information
Statement -- Prospectus, EchoStar has loaned DBSC $36.0 million pursuant to the
Loan Agreements.
EchoStar believes that each of the transactions described above between
EchoStar and its affiliates were on terms comparable to those which would have
been obtainable from unaffiliated third parties.
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table and the accompanying notes set forth information
concerning the beneficial ownership of EchoStar's equity securities as of
August 30, 1996. The information is presented for: (i) each person known by
EchoStar to be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of any class of
EchoStar's capital stock; (ii) each director of EchoStar; (iii) each Named
Executive Officer; and (iv) all directors and executive officers as a group.
Except as otherwise indicated, each person listed in the following table has
informed EchoStar that such person has sole voting and investment power with
respect to such person's shares of capital stock.
<TABLE>
PERCENTAGE
NAME (1) NUMBER OF SHARES OF CLASS
- -------- ---------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
8% SERIES A CUMULATIVE PREFERRED STOCK
Charles W. Ergen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,535,847(2) 95.0%
James DeFranco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80,834 5.0%
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group
(twelve persons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,616,681 100.0%
CLASS A COMMON STOCK
Charles W. Ergen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31,425,449(3) 73.6%(4)(5)(12)
James DeFranco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,712,588(6) 4.0%(4)(12)
T. Rowe Price. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,155,000(13) 2.7%(12)
SSE Telecom, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912,717(8) 2.1%(4)(12)
R. Scott Zimmer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 827,917(7) 1.9%(4)(12)
Carl E. Vogel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316,245(9) *(12)
David K. Moskowitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28,692(10) *(12)
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group
(twelve persons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34,372,683(11) 80.5%(4)(12)
CLASS B COMMON STOCK
Charles W. Ergen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29,804,401 100.0%
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group
(twelve persons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29,804,401 100.0%
</TABLE>
- --------------------------
* Less than 1%
(1) Except as otherwise noted, the address of each such person is 90 Inverness
Circle East, Englewood, Colorado 80112.
(2) Includes 1,125,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock held in trust for the
benefit of Mr. Ergen's minor children and other members of his family.
Mr. Ergen's spouse is the trustee for that trust. All of the Series A
Preferred Stock is currently pledged to Lockheed Martin as security for
the performance of certain of ESC's obligations under the Satellite
Contracts.
(3) Includes: (i) 24,368 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable to Mr. Ergen
upon exercise of employee stock options; (ii) 29,804,401 shares of Class A
Common Stock issuable upon conversion of Mr. Ergen's Class B Common Stock;
(iii) 410,847 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of
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Mr. Ergen's Series A Preferred Stock; (iv) 1,125,000 shares of Class A
Common Stock issuable upon conversion of Series A Preferred Stock held in
trust for the benefit of Mr. Ergen's minor children and other members of
his family; and (v) 55,000 shares of Class A Common Stock held by the
EchoStar Communications Corporation 401(k) Plan, of which Mr. Ergen is
a trustee.
(4) The beneficial ownership percentage was calculated assuming exercise or
conversion of all Class B Common Stock, Preferred Stock, Warrants and
employee stock options ("Derivative Securities") into Class A Common Stock
by all holders of such Derivative Securities. Assuming exercise or
conversion of Derivative Securities by such person, and only by such
person, the beneficial ownership of Class A Common Stock would be as
follows: Mr. Ergen, 74.3%; Mr. DeFranco, 15.7%; Mr. Zimmer, 7.9%;
Mr. Vogel, 3.3%; and all officers and directors as a group, 80.9%. SSE
Telecom, Inc. and T. Rowe Price do not own any Derivative Securities. If
none of the holders of Derivative Securities exercise or convert such
securities, SSE Telecom, Inc. and T. Rowe Price would beneficially own
8.3% and 10.5%, respectively, of the outstanding Class A Common Stock.
(5) The percentage of total voting power held by Mr. Ergen is 96.1%, after
giving effect to the exercise of the Warrants and the employee stock
options.
(6) Includes: (i) 19,494 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable to
Mr. DeFranco upon exercise of employee stock options; (ii) 80,834 shares of
Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of Mr. DeFranco's Series A
Preferred Stock; (iii) 751 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian
for his minor children; and (iv) 375,000 shares of Class A Common Stock
controlled by Mr. DeFranco as general partner of a partnership.
(7) Includes: (i) 20,083 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable to Mr. Zimmer
upon exercise of employee stock options; (ii) 2,300 shares of Class A
Common Stock owned jointly with members of his family; and (iii) 100,000
shares of Class A Common Stock held in trust for the benefit of
Mr. Zimmer's children and other members of his family. Mr. Zimmer's spouse
is the trustee for that trust.
(8) Includes 111,937 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by EchoSat
Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of SSE Telecom, Inc. The address of
SSE Telecom, Inc. is 8230 Leesburg Pike, Suite 710, Vienna, Virginia 22182.
(9) Includes: (i) 23,780 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable to Mr. Vogel
upon exercise of employee stock options; and (ii) 247 shares of Class A
Common Stock owned jointly with Mr. Vogel's spouse.
(10) Includes: (i) 24,074 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable to
Mr. Moskowitz upon exercise of employee stock options; (ii) 3,000 shares of
Class A Common Stock owned by Mr. Moskowitz's spouse; (iii) 166 shares of
Class A Common Stock held as custodian for his minor children; and
(iv) 1,023 shares of Class A Common Stock held as trustee for Mr. Ergen's
children.
(11) Includes: (i) 173,334 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon
exercise of employee stock options; (ii) 55,000 shares held by the 401(k)
plan; (iii) 375,000 shares of Class A Common Stock held in a partnership;
(iv) 1,616,681 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of
Series A Preferred Stock; (v) 29,804,401 shares of Class A Common Stock
issuable upon conversion of Class B Common Stock; (vi) 101,941 shares of
Class A Common Stock held in the name of, or in trust for, minor children
and other family members; and (vii) 5,753 shares of Class A Common Stock
owned by or jointly with family members.
(12) Assuming the issuance of approximately 658,000 shares of Class A Common
Stock pursuant to the Merger, the beneficial ownership of Class A Common
Stock would be as follows: Mr. Ergen, 72.5%; Mr. DeFranco, 4.0%;
Mr. Zimmer, 1.9%; SSE Telecom, Inc., 2.1%; T. Rowe Price, 2.7%; and all
officers and directors as a group, 79.2%.
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(13) These securities are owned by various individual and institutional
investors (including T. Rowe Price Science & Technology Fund, Inc.
(which owns 600,000 shares, representing 5.5% of the shares outstanding),
for which T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("Price Associates") serves as
investment adviser with power to direct investments and/or sole power to
vote the securities. For purposes of the reporting requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Price Associates is deemed to be a
beneficial owner of such securities; however, Price Associates expressly
disclaims that it is, in fact, the beneficial owner of such securities.
The address of T. Rowe Price is 100 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland
21289.
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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
GENERAL
Pursuant to EchoStar's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, as
in effect on the date hereof, EchoStar's authorized capital stock consists
of: (i) 400,000,000 shares of Common Stock, of which 200,000,000 shares are
designated "Class A Common Stock," 100,000,000 shares are designated "Class B
Common Stock," and 100,000,000 shares are designated "Class C Common Stock;"
and (ii) 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share. As
of June 30, 1996, 10,750,667 shares of Class A Common Stock were issued and
outstanding and held of record by 681 stockholders, 29,804,401 shares of
Class B Common Stock were issued and outstanding and held of record by
Charles W. Ergen, EchoStar's President and Chief Executive Officer, and no
shares of Class C Common Stock were issued and outstanding. See "Security
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management." All outstanding
shares of the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock are fully paid
and nonassessable. The designation and the powers, preferences and rights of
the shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock and the qualifications,
limitations and restrictions thereof are as set forth below.
The transfer agent for EchoStar's capital stock, including the Class A
Common Stock, is American Securities Transfer, Inc. ("AST"). AST's address
is 1825 Lawrence Street, Suite 444, Denver, Colorado 80202.
CLASS A COMMON STOCK
Each holder of Class A Common Stock is entitled to one vote for each
share of Class A Common Stock owned of record on all matters submitted to a
vote of stockholders. Except as otherwise required by law, the Class A Common
Stock votes together with the Class B Common Stock, the Class C Common Stock
and the Preferred Stock on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders.
Subject to the preferential rights of any outstanding series of Preferred
Stock and to the restrictions on payment of dividends imposed by the 1994
Notes and the 1996 Notes (see "Description of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994
Notes" and "-- 1996 Notes") and any other indebtedness of EchoStar, the
holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to such dividends as may be
declared from time to time by the Board of Directors from funds legally
available therefor, and, together with the holders of the Class B Common
Stock, are entitled, after payment of all prior claims, to receive pro rata
all assets of EchoStar upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
EchoStar. Holders of Class A Common Stock have no redemption, conversion or
preemptive rights.
CLASS B COMMON STOCK
Each holder of Class B Common Stock is entitled to ten votes for each
share of Class B Common Stock on all matters submitted to a vote of
stockholders. Except as otherwise required by law, the Class B Common Stock
votes together with the Class A Common Stock, the Class C Common Stock and
the Preferred Stock on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders.
Each share of Class B Common Stock is convertible, at the option of the
holder, into one share of Class A Common Stock. The conversion ratio is
subject to adjustment from time to time upon the occurrence of certain
events, including: (i) dividends or distributions on Class A Common Stock
payable in Class A Common Stock or certain other capital stock; (ii)
subdivisions, combinations or certain reclassifications of Class A Common
Stock; and (iii) issuances of Class A Common Stock or rights, warrants or
options to purchase Class A Common Stock at a price per share less than the
fair market value of the Class A Common Stock. Each share of Class B Common
Stock is entitled to receive dividends and distributions upon liquidation on
a basis equivalent to that of the Class A Common Stock.
CLASS C COMMON STOCK
Each holder of Class C Common Stock is entitled to one vote for each
share of Class C Common Stock on all matters submitted to a vote of
stockholders. Except with respect to transactions involving the issuance of
capital stock which negatively affect the rights of holders of Series A
Preferred Stock, or as otherwise required by law, the Class C Common Stock
votes together with Class A Common Stock, the Class B Common Stock and the
Series A Preferred Stock on all matters submitted to a vote of the
stockholders. Each share of Class C
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Common Stock is convertible into Class A Common Stock on the same terms as
the Class B Common Stock. Each share of Class C Common Stock is entitled to
receive dividends and distributions upon liquidation on a basis equivalent to
that of the Class A Common Stock. Upon a Change in Control of EchoStar, each
holder of outstanding shares of Class C Common Stock is entitled to cast ten
votes for each share of Class C Common Stock held by such holder. "Change in
Control" has the same meaning as set forth in the 1994 Indenture and the 1996
Indenture. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes" and "--
1996 Notes." EchoStar has no present intention to issue any shares of Class C
Common Stock and, under current NASD rules, will not be able to issue any so
long as the Class A Common Stock is quoted on the Nasdaq National Market.
PREFERRED STOCK
EchoStar's Board of Directors is authorized to divide the Preferred Stock
into series and, with respect to each series, to determine the preferences
and rights and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions thereof,
including the dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, redemption
rights and terms, liquidation preferences, sinking fund provisions, the
number of shares constituting the series and the designation of such series.
The Board of Directors may, without stockholder approval, issue Preferred
Stock with voting and other rights that could adversely affect the voting
power of the holders of Common Stock and could have certain anti-takeover
effects.
EchoStar has issued 1,616,681 shares of its 8% Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock (the "Series A Preferred Stock"). Each share of Series A
Preferred Stock issued is convertible, at the option of the holder, into one
share of Class A Common Stock, subject to adjustment from time to time upon
the occurrence of certain events, including: (i) dividends or distributions
on Class A Common Stock payable in Class A Common Stock or certain other
capital stock; (ii) subdivisions, combinations or certain reclassifications
of Class A Common Stock; and (iii) issuances of Class A Common Stock or
rights, warrants or options to purchase Class A Common Stock at a price per
share less than the liquidation preference per share. The aggregate
liquidation preference for all outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock
is limited to approximately $15.1 million plus cumulative unpaid dividends.
At August 31, 1996, accrued and unpaid dividends of the Series A Preferred
Stock totalled approximately $2.9 million.
Each share of Series A Preferred Stock is entitled to receive dividends
equal to eight percent per annum of the liquidation preference for such
share. EchoStar currently has no intention to begin paying dividends on the
Series A Preferred Stock.
Shares of Series A Preferred Stock automatically convert into shares of
Class A Common Stock in the event they are transferred to any person other
than permitted transferees. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock is
entitled to the equivalent of ten votes for each share of Class A Common
Stock into which it is convertible and, except with respect to transactions
involving the issuance of capital stock which negatively affects the rights
of holders of Series A Preferred Stock (as more particularly described in the
Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights for the Series A
Preferred Stock) or as otherwise required by law, votes together with the
Class A Common Stock, Class B Common Stock and Class C Common Stock as a
single class on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders.
WARRANTS
On June 7, 1994, Dish, Ltd. consummated the 1994 Notes Offering, selling
624,000 Units, consisting of $624.0 million aggregate principal amount of
1994 Notes and warrants to purchase 2,807,998 shares of Class A Common Stock
(the "Warrants"). Each Unit consists of $1,000 principal amount of 1994 Notes
and Warrants to purchase 4.5 shares of Class A Common Stock. The 1994 Notes
and Warrants are separately transferable. The Warrants were issued under a
Warrant Agreement (the "Warrant Agreement") between Dish, Ltd. and First
Trust National Association, as Warrant Agent (the "Warrant Agent"), a copy of
which is filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.
Each Warrant entitles the registered holder thereof (the "Holder"), subject
to and upon compliance with the provisions thereof and of the Warrant Agreement,
at such Holder's option, prior to 5:00 p.m., Eastern time,
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on June 1, 2004, to purchase from Dish, Ltd. 0.75 shares (or such other
number as may result from adjustments as provided in the Warrant Agreement)
of Class A Common Stock at a purchase price of $0.01 per share (the "Exercise
Price"). If Dish, Ltd. is a party to a consolidation, merger or binding share
exchange, or certain transfers of all or substantially all of its assets
occur, the right to exercise a Warrant for Class A Common Stock will
represent a right to receive the same securities, cash or other assets of
EchoStar or another person that a holder of Class A Common Stock is entitled
to receive upon such consolidation, merger, share exchange or transfer (which
securities, cash or other assets may not necessarily be of equal value to the
Class A Common Stock). The Warrants are obligations of Dish, Ltd., but, in
connection with the merger of Dish, Ltd. and a wholly-owned subsidiary of
EchoStar, the Warrants currently entitle the Holders to acquire an aggregate
of 2,807,998 shares of EchoStar Class A Common Stock. The exercise price with
respect to all of the Warrants has been paid. No additional amounts are
required to be paid upon exercise of the Warrants. As of June 30, 1996,
substantially all of the Warrants issued in connection with the 1994 Notes
Offering had been exercised.
The number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon exercise of a
Warrant (the "Exercise Rate") is subject to adjustment from time to time upon
the occurrence of certain events, including: (i) dividends or distributions
on common stock payable in common stock or certain other capital stock; (ii)
subdivisions, combinations or certain reclassifications of common stock;
(iii) distributions to all holders of common stock of rights, warrants or
options to purchase common stock at a price per share less than the current
market value at the time; and (iv) distributions to stockholders of assets,
debt securities or common stock of Dish, Ltd. or certain rights, warrants or
options to purchase securities of Dish, Ltd. (excluding cash dividends or
other cash distributions from current or retained earnings other than any
Extraordinary Cash Dividend). The Warrant Agreement permits Dish, Ltd.
voluntarily to increase the Exercise Rate, as defined therein, from time to
time for a period of time not less than 20 business days.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION MATTERS
The Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation provide that a
director of EchoStar will not be personally liable to EchoStar or its
stockholders for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duty as a
director, except in certain cases where liability is mandated by the NCL. The
provision has no effect on any non-monetary remedies that may be available to
EchoStar or its stockholders, nor does it relieve EchoStar or its directors
from compliance with federal or state securities laws. The Amended and
Restated Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws of EchoStar provide for
indemnification, to the fullest extent permitted by the NCL, of any person
who is or was involved in any manner in any investigation, claim or other
proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or
officer of EchoStar, or is or was serving at the request of EchoStar as a
director or officer of another corporation, against all expenses and
liabilities actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection
with the investigation, claim or other proceeding.
NEVADA LAW AND LIMITATIONS ON CHANGES IN CONTROL
The NCL prevents an "interested stockholder" (defined in Section 78.423
of the NCL, generally, as a person owning 10% or more of a corporation's
outstanding voting stock) from engaging in a "combination" (as defined in
Section 78.416) with a publicly-held Nevada corporation for three years
following the date such person became an interested stockholder unless,
before such person became an interested stockholder, the board of directors
of the corporation approved the transaction in which the interested
stockholder became an interested stockholder or approves the combination.
The provisions authorizing the Board of Directors to issue Preferred
Stock without stockholder approval and the provisions of the NCL relating to
combinations with interested stockholders could have the effect of delaying,
deferring or preventing a change in control of EchoStar or the removal of
existing management. The 1994 Indenture and the 1996 Indenture also contain
provisions with respect to a change of control of EchoStar. See "Description
of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes" and "-- 1996 Notes."
Charles W. Ergen, President and Chief Executive Officer of EchoStar, owns
29,804,401 shares of Class B Common Stock, which constitute all of the
outstanding shares of such stock. These shares are transferable to other persons
subject to securities laws limitations. In the event Mr. Ergen transferred
approximately 50.8% or
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more of his shares of Class B Common Stock, a change in control of EchoStar
would result and Mr. Ergen would receive any premium paid for control of
EchoStar. In addition, any such change in control would result in an
obligation on the part of Dish, Ltd. to offer to purchase at a premium all
1994 Notes and ESB to offer to purchase at a premium all 1996 Notes. See
"Description of Certain Indebtedness -- 1994 Notes" and "-- 1996 Notes."
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
Set forth below is a summary of certain indebtedness to which EchoStar is
subject. This summary describes all material elements of such indebtedness,
but does not purport to be complete, and it is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the applicable agreements filed as exhibits to the Registration
Statement of which this Information Statement -- Prospectus is a part.
1994 NOTES
In June 1994, Dish, Ltd. issued the 1994 Notes, which generated gross
proceeds of approximately $335.1 million. Interest on the 1994 Notes accrues
at the rate of 127 8% per annum, but is not payable in cash prior to June 1,
1999. Thereafter, interest will accrue at the same rate and will be payable
in cash semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year. Principal of the
1994 Notes accretes to $624 million in 1999, and matures on June 1, 2004. The
1994 Notes are secured by, among other things: (i) a pledge of all of the
issued and outstanding capital stock of certain of EchoStar's subsidiaries;
(ii) a first priority security interest in the assets of ESC (subject to the
terms of an intercreditor agreement with, among others, Lockheed Martin and
the Bank) including a first priority security interest in EchoStar I and,
when launched, EchoStar II; (iii) a first priority security interest in the
1994 Escrow Account and Dish, Ltd.'s customer lists and related rights with
respect to EchoStar I and EchoStar II; (iv) a collateral assignment, insofar
as they relate to EchoStar I and EchoStar II, of the Satellite Contracts, the
Launch Contracts, all programming contracts, all TT&C contracts and each
other contract necessary for the operation of EchoStar I and EchoStar II; and
(v) a subordinate lien on the assets of the Credit Agreement Borrowers.
Except as set forth below, the 1994 Notes are not redeemable at Dish,
Ltd.'s option prior to June 1, 1999. Thereafter, the 1994 Notes are subject
to redemption at the option of Dish, Ltd., in whole or in part, at the
redemption prices set forth in the 1994 Indenture. In addition, at any time
prior to June 1, 1997, Dish, Ltd. may redeem the 1994 Notes at a redemption
price equal to 111.5% of the accreted value thereof on the repurchase date
with the net proceeds of one public or private sale of certain equity
interests of Dish, Ltd., provided that: (i) at least two-thirds of the 1994
Notes remain outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption;
and (ii) such redemption occurs within 120 days of the date of the closing of
any such sale. On each of June 1, 2002 and June 1, 2003, Dish, Ltd. is
required to redeem 25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 1994
Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof,
together with accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
The 1994 Indenture provides that in the event of a "Change of Control,"
Dish, Ltd. is required to make an offer to purchase all 1994 Notes at 101% of
the accreted value thereof (if prior to June 1, 1999) or 101% of the
principal amount thereof (if on or after June 1, 1999), plus accrued and
unpaid interest to the date of payment. For purposes of the 1994 Indenture
and the 1996 Indenture, certain terms are defined as follows: "Change of
Control" means: (i) any transaction or series of transactions, the result of
which is that the Principals and their Related Parties (as such terms are
hereinafter defined), or an entity controlled by the Principals and their
Related Parties, cease to be the "beneficial owners" (as defined in Rule
13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of at least 30% of the total equity interests
of Dish, Ltd. and to have the voting power to elect at least a majority of
the Board of Directors of Dish, Ltd.; or (ii) the first day on which a
majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Dish, Ltd. are not
Continuing Directors. "Principals" means Messrs. Ergen, DeFranco, Zimmer,
Vogel, Fears and Moskowitz. "Related Parties" means, with respect to any
Principal: (y) the spouse and each immediate family member of such Principal;
and (z) each trust, corporation, partnership or other entity of which such
Principal beneficially holds an 80% or more controlling interest. "Continuing
Director" means, with respect to the 1994 Notes, as of any date of
determination, any member of the Board of Directors of Dish, Ltd. who: (a)
was a member of such Board of Directors on the date of the 1994 Indenture; or
(b) was nominated for
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election or elected to such Board of Directors with the affirmative vote of a
majority of the Continuing Directors who were members of such Board at the
time of such nomination or election, and with respect to the 1996 Notes,
"Continuing Director" means, as of any date of determination, any member of
the Board of Directors of EchoStar and ESB, as the case may be, who: (a) was
a member of such Board of Directors on the date of the 1996 Indenture; or (b)
was nominated for election or elected to such Board of Directors with the
affirmative vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors who were members
of such Board at the time of such nomination or election.
The 1994 Indenture contains restrictive covenants that, among other
things, impose limitations on Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries with respect to
their ability to: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) issue preferred
stock; (iii) apply the proceeds of certain asset sales; (iv) create, incur or
assume liens; (v) create dividend and other payment restrictions with respect
to Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries; (vi) merge, consolidate or sell assets; (vii)
incur subordinated or junior debt; and (viii) enter into transactions with
affiliates. In addition, Dish, Ltd., may pay dividends on its equity
securities only if: (y) no default is continuing under the 1994 Indenture;
and (z) after giving effect to such dividend, Dish, Ltd.'s ratio of total
indebtedness to cash flow (calculated in accordance with the 1994 Indenture)
would not exceed 4.0 to 1. Moreover, the aggregate amount of such dividends
generally may not exceed the sum of 50% of Dish, Ltd.'s consolidated net
income (calculated in accordance with the 1994 Indenture) from the date of
issuance of the 1994 Notes, plus 100% of the aggregate net proceeds to Dish,
Ltd. from the issuance and sale of certain equity interests of Dish, Ltd.
(including common stock).
1996 NOTES
In March 1996, ESB issued $580 million aggregate principal amount of the
1996 Notes, which generated gross proceeds of approximately $350.0 million.
Interest on the 1996 Notes accrues at the rate of 131 8% per annum, but is
not payable in cash prior to September 15, 2000. Thereafter, interest will
accrue at the same rate and will be payable in cash semi-annually on March 15
and September 15 of each year. The 1996 Notes mature March 15, 2004.
Initially, the Notes are secured by: (i) a pledge of all of the issued and
outstanding capital stock of EchoStar DBS Corporation (which pledge will be
released following consummation of the Merger or the Substitute DBSC
Transaction) and Dish, Ltd.; (ii) a pledge of all of the stock of MergerCo
held by EchoStar; (iii) a pledge of certain notes of DBSC held by EchoStar;
and (iv) a first priority security interest in the 1996 Escrow Account. In
addition, upon consummation of the Merger, the 1996 Notes will be secured by:
(i) a first priority security interest, when launched, in EchoStar III; (ii)
a collateral assignment of all contracts relating to the construction, launch
(other than with Great Wall), insurance and TT&C of EchoStar III; and (iii) a
pledge of all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of MergerCo. If the
Merger is not consummated but the Substitute DBSC Transaction is consummated,
the 1996 Notes will be secured by a collateral assignment of all contracts
and agreements relating to the Substitute DBSC Transaction.
Except as set forth below, the 1996 Notes are not redeemable at ESB's
option prior to March 15, 2000. Thereafter, the 1996 Notes are subject to
redemption at the option of ESB, in whole or in part, at the redemption
prices set forth in the 1996 Indenture. In addition, at any time prior to
March 15, 1999, ESB may redeem the 1996 Notes at a redemption price equal to
112.125% of the accreted value thereof on the repurchase date with the net
proceeds of one public or private sale of certain equity interests of
EchoStar, provided that: (i) at least two-thirds of the 1996 Notes remain
outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and (ii)
such redemption occurs within 120 days of the date of the closing of any such
sale.
The 1996 Indenture provides that in the event of a "Change of Control,"
ESB is required to make an offer to purchase all 1996 Notes at 101% of the
accreted value thereof (if prior to March 15, 2000) or 101% of the principal
amount thereof (if on or after March 15, 2000), plus accrued and unpaid
interest to the date of payment.
The 1996 Indenture restricts, among other things, the payment of
dividends, the repurchase of stock and subordinated indebtedness of ESB and
the making of certain other restricted payments, the incurrence of
indebtedness and the issuance of preferred stock, certain asset sales, the
creation of certain liens, certain mergers and consolidations, and
transactions with affiliates.
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DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
BUSINESS
DBSC was formed as a Delaware corporation in 1981, making it one of the
earliest entities to focus on DBS technology. DBSC filed its initial FCC
application in the same year in which it was founded and was first granted a
construction permit by the FCC in 1982. As a result of financing
difficulties, DBSC was not able to satisfy FCC Due Diligence Requirements and
its initial authorization therefore expired in 1985. A second construction
permit was granted to DBSC by the FCC in 1986. The present authorizations
were granted in 1989.
By late summer of 1994, the construction of DBSC's satellite by Lockheed
Martin was not sufficiently advanced to permit DBSC to begin operation of
its first satellite by August 1995, and substantial working capital was
needed to accelerate the construction phase of the DBSC Satellite Contract.
However, by order released December 8, 1995, the FCC found that DBSC had
successfully maintained its due diligence status as required by FCC rule and
precedent and extended DBSC's authorizations through November 1998. In the
same order, the FCC's staff denied reconsideration of its earlier grant of
orbit/spectrum resources to DBSC but declined to rule on DBSC's June 1995
application for minor modification of authority to permit DBSC to shift from
the Lockheed Martin Series 7000 16 transponder spacecraft to the more modern
A2100 Series, featuring 32 transponders and other enhancements. On December
21, 1995, EchoStar and DBSC entered into the Merger Trigger Agreement
pursuant to which the parties agreed to, among other things, execute and
consummate the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement and to enter
into the Loan Agreements. See "The Merger --The Merger Trigger Agreement."
Pursuant to the DBSC Satellite Contract with Lockheed Martin , DBSC has
been making scheduled progress payments according to the Contract (as amended
from time to time) since April 1990. Effective May 31, 1995, DBSC and
Lockheed Martin again amended the DBSC Satellite Contract. As amended, the
DBSC Satellite Contract calls for the construction of two spacecraft based on
Lockheed Martin's A2100 bus, using the AX variant. These spacecraft,
containing 32 transponders each, are state-of-the-art. Lockheed Martin is
obligated to deliver the first satellite, referred to as EchoStar III in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus, by July 31, 1997. The delivery date
for the second satellite, DBSC II, is subject to adjustment depending on the
payment schedule to be agreed upon by the parties. The delivery date for
EchoStar III constitutes an acceleration of delivery and launch dates from
such dates as set forth in the DBSC Satellite Contract prior to the
amendment. DBSC made a payment to Lockheed Martin in May 1995 of $500,000
and an additional payment of $1.0 million on June 30, 1995. The next payment
of $16.0 million was made on December 29, 1995. Thereafter the balance for
EchoStar III is due in monthly payments, most of which are $2.5 million. As
of the date of this Information Statement -- Prospectus, each monthly payment
has been made. The DBSC Satellite Contract imposes substantial termination
liabilities on DBSC if it is not able to continue to fund the DBSC Satellite
Contract.
DBSC has entered into a Note Purchase Agreement (together with related
agreements) with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar agreed to purchase $16.0
million aggregate principal amount of promissory notes of DBSC and up to an
additional $134.0 million aggregate principal amount of promissory notes, the
proceeds from which are to be used by DBSC to make certain payments to
Lockheed Martin and to make deposits toward the launch reservations. See
"The Exchange and Merger -- Reasons for the Merger." The Note Purchase
Agreement provides that EchoStar may, in its sole discretion, advance DBSC
funds to make the further progress payments to Lockheed Martin , but EchoStar
is not obligated to do so. However, EchoStar presently intends to continue to
advance DBSC funds to make such future progress payments or for other stated
purposes.
DBSC believes that it is entitled to a proportionate share of the 28
channels at 110DEG. WL recently forfeited by Advanced and auctioned by the
FCC in January 1996 because DBSC was awarded only 11 DBS channels as compared
to the 16 it initially sought. DBSC, as well as EchoStar and DirectSat, have
filed suit against the FCC in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit
contesting the FCC's decision to auction the cancelled Advanced channels.
While DBSC believes that its case is meritorious there can be no assurance
that
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the court will reverse or remand the FCC's decision, or that if it does, the
FCC or the court would ultimately rule in DBSC's favor.
DBSC does not presently have a launch contract or option for launch of
its proposed DBS satellites. However, EchoStar has entered into a launch
services contract for the launch of EchoStar III, one of DBSC's satellites.
See "EchoStar Communications Corporation -- Business -- Satellite Launches."
As part of its contractual agreements with EchoStar, DBSC has committed
to utilize EchoStar's TT&C and uplink facility.
A DBS provider must have a customer service facility adequate to take
service orders and inquiries, process programming requests and provide for
the necessary implementation. DBSC expects that it will be able to contract
with one or more customer service organizations for the provision of such
services at costs considered to be competitive.
DBSC's current cash resources, which as of June 30, 1996 were approximately
$77,000, are not sufficient to pay DBSC's ordinary operating expenses. It is
anticipated that the Effective Time of the Merger will be in September 1996.
Therefore, DBSC will have to defer paying a portion of its expenses or will
have to seek additional funds for ordinary operating expenses (which pursuant
to the terms of the Merger Agreement can only be in the form of debt
financing) from its existing DBSC shareholders or outside sources. No
assurances can be given that such funds would be available to DBSC.
In the event the Merger is not consummated, DBSC and EchoStar have
agreed on alternative arrangements designed to assure comparable economic
benefits to both parties. However, as of the date of this Information
Statement --Prospectus, unless the Merger is consummated, DBSC may not have
sufficient funds to meet its obligations under the DBSC Satellite Contract or
to conduct its business operations. Therefore, DBSC may be required to
immediately seek additional investors or strategic partners in order to
continue its operations. In any event, DBSC Shareholders would receive the
Merger Consideration.
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MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth information concerning DBSC's Executive
Officers and Directors:
NAME AGE POSITION
---- --- --------
Harley W. Radin 59 Chairman, Chief Executive Officer,
Treasurer and Director
Daniel E. Moore 42 Secretary and Director
Fred W. Thompson 53 Director
HARLEY W. RADIN. Mr. Radin has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
of DBSC since 1987. Mr. Radin has general management responsibility for the
day-to-day business of DBSC. He is responsible for developing DBSC's business
plan and seeking business partners and financing. Mr. Radin spends a
substantial majority of his time on DBSC's business. Mr. Radin graduated from
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in
Electrical Engineering and received a Masters degree in Electrical
Engineering from New York University in 1961.
DANIEL E. MOORE. Mr. Moore has been a Director of DBSC since September
1995, and served as a Director of SSE Telecom, Inc. since April 1989. Mr.
Moore joined SSE Telecom, Inc. in 1994 as Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer. Mr. Moore is a founder and principal of Venture America, a
private venture capital and entrepreneurial services firm. Previously, Mr.
Moore was a Senior Manager with Arthur Andersen & Co. Mr. Moore received his
Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh
and his Bachelor's degree from Lafayette College.
FRED W. THOMPSON. Mr. Thompson has been a Director of DBSC since July
1993. Mr. Thompson is Chairman of the Board, President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Chief Financial Officer of DBS Industries, Inc. In early 1990
Mr. Thompson founded and served as Chairman and President of DBS Network,
Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of DBS Industries, Inc., until its
dissolution in July 1995. He has over thirty years' experience in the
telecommunications industry. From 1986 to 1990, Mr. Thompson devoted his time
to consulting on various telecommunication matters as an independent
contractor. Mr. Thompson received a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering
from California Polytechnic in 1962.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Harley W. Radin, DBSC's Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief
Executive Officer, performs services for DBSC as an independent contractor.
Mr. Radin entered into a consulting agreement with DBSC as of November 16,
1993. Under the terms of the consulting agreement, Mr. Radin was paid $8,000
per month by DBSC for consulting services from November 16, 1993 through
March 31, 1994, and $10,000 per month for such services beginning on April 1,
1994. Commencing January 1, 1995, pursuant to the terms of a new consulting
agreement, Mr. Radin receives $12,000 per month for such services. Mr. Radin
is also entitled to reimbursement for certain reasonable out of pocket
expenses related to DBSC's business. The consulting agreement currently has a
month-to-month term. As of the date of this Information Statement --
Prospectus, Mr. Radin has received an aggregate of $372,000 since November,
1993.
Directors of DBSC do not receive remuneration for their services as
directors. Charles A. Kase, a member of the DBSC Board until October, 1995,
has agreed to perform certain technical services for DBSC as requested from
time to time by DBSC. Under a consulting agreement dated April 28, 1994 and
which expired on December 31, 1994, Mr. Kase was paid at an hourly rate of
$125 with aggregate compensation not to exceed $36,000.
A new consulting agreement was entered into effective January 1, 1995
whereby Mr. Kase was to be paid an hourly rate of $125 with payments not to
exceed $8,000 per month. This consulting agreement expired on December 31,
1995. Under both agreements, Mr. Kase received $34,125 for his services to
DBSC.
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In connection with the election of Daniel E. Moore to the DBSC Board, Mr.
Moore received 2,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock as compensation for
services.
DBSC does not currently have any stock option plan or any officer or
director incentive arrangement.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
During the last two years, in addition to matters described in
"Management -- Executive Compensation" and "Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions" and in "Business" (regarding the loans to DBSC by EchoStar to
fund the satellite construction contract), the following transactions
occurred between DBSC and certain of its officers, directors, and five
percent (5%) or greater stockholders:
Fred W. Thompson, a DBSC director since July 1993, is the President and
Chief Executive Officer of DBSI. Effective January 29, 1993, DBSC entered
into a Stockholder Line of Credit and Investment Agreement with DBS Network,
Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of DBSI ("DBSN") pursuant to which DBSN
agreed to loan DBSC up to a total of $200,000 in exchange for the issuance by
DBSC of interest bearing notes (the "DBSN Notes") convertible into DBSC
Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.00 per share. The DBSN Notes carried
a five year term. The terms of the DBSN Notes specified that DBSC may pay off
the outstanding balance at any time including interest accrued to the date of
payment. The DBSN Notes were convertible into DBSC Common Stock after
approval was received from the FCC for DBSN to take control of DBSC. Until
the DBSN Notes were paid in full, DBSC also had the right to elect to convert
the principal amount of the DBSN Notes into shares of DBSC Common Stock at
the conversion price of $1.00 per share. As of November 15, 1994, DBSC had
borrowed a total of $152,500 in principal and had accrued interest of
approximately $20,710. The DBSN Notes plus accrued interest thereon have
been fully paid by DBSC.
In 1995 and 1996 EchoStar purchased an aggregate of $4.0 million of
DBSI's convertible subordinated debentures of which $1.0 million are due July
1, 1998 and $3.0 million are due January 12, 1999. The debentures are
secured by 125,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock and 2,000 shares of common
stock of E-SAT Corporation which is currently owned 80% by EchoStar. Fred W.
Thompson, a director of DBSC, is President, a director and a significant
shareholder of DBSI.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table and accompanying notes set forth information
concerning the beneficial ownership of DBSC Common Stock as of the date of
this Information Statement -- Prospectus. Such information is presented for:
(i) each Director of DBSC who owns any such securities; (ii) each Executive
Officer of DBSC who owns any such securities; (iii) all Directors and
Executive Officers as a group; and (iv) any person beneficially owning more
than 5% of the DBSC Common Stock. The number of shares beneficially owned by
each Director or Executive Officer is determined according to the rules of
the Securities and Exchange Commission and the information is not necessarily
indicative of beneficial ownership for any other purpose. Under such rules,
beneficial ownership includes any shares as to which the individual or entity
has sole or shared voting power or investment power. As a consequence,
several persons may be deemed to be the "beneficial owners" of the same
shares. Except as noted below, each person listed in the following table has
informed DBSC that such person has sole voting power and investment power
with respect to such person's shares of DBSC Common Stock.
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NUMBER OF PERCENTAGE
NAME SHARES OF CLASS
---- --------- ----------
Harley W. Radin (1).........................................297,306 18.35%
Daniel E. Moore (2)......................................... 2,000 0.12%
Fred W. Thompson (3)........................................401,107(4) 24.76%
DBS Industries, Inc. (5)....................................401,107 24.76%
Kingswood, Inc. (6).........................................175,000 10.80%
EchoStar Communications Corporation (7).....................644,990(8) 39.81%
All Directors and Executive Officers as a group (3 persons).700,413 43.23%
- ------------------
(1) Mr. Radin's address is 4401-A Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 400,
Washington, D.C. 20008.
(2) Mr. Moore's address is 8230 Leesburg Pike, Suite 710, Vienna, VA 22182.
(3) Mr. Thompson's address is 495 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941.
(4) Consists of 401,107 shares of DBSC Common Stock owned by DBS Industries,
Inc. of which Mr. Thompson is President, a Director and a significant
shareholder.
(5) DBS Industries, Inc.'s address is 495 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941
(6) Kingswood, Inc.'s address is 5726 Corsa Avenue, Suite 202, Westlake
Village, CA 91362.
(7) EchoStar Communications Corporation's address is 90 Inverness Circle
East, Englewood, CO 80112.
(8) Excludes 333,333 shares of DBSC Common Stock issuable upon the option
granted to EchoStar pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement. See
"Background and Reasons for the Merger."
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
COMMON STOCK
DBSC is authorized to issue up to 3,000,000 shares of DBSC Common Stock,
$.01 par value. Each holder of DBSC Common Stock is entitled to one vote for
each share held of record on each matter submitted to a vote of DBSC
Shareholders. Each holder of DBSC Common Stock is entitled to receive ratably
such dividends as may be declared by the DBSC Board out of funds legally
available therefor as well as any distributions to the DBSC Shareholders and,
in the event of the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of DBSC, is
entitled to share ratably in all assets of DBSC remaining after payment of
liabilities. Holders of DBSC Common Stock have no cumulative voting,
conversion, redemption or preemptive rights or other rights to subscribe for
additional shares. As of June 30, 1996, 1,620,138 shares of DBSC Common Stock
were issued and outstanding and held of record by 56 stockholders. The
outstanding shares of DBSC Common Stock are validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable.
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LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the EchoStar Common Stock will be passed upon for
EchoStar by David K. Moskowitz, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary of EchoStar.
EXPERTS
The audited financial statements and schedules of EchoStar included in
this Information Statement -- Prospectus and elsewhere in the Registration
Statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public
accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of such firm as experts in
giving such reports.
The audited financial statements and schedules of DBSC included in this
Information Statement -- Prospectus and elsewhere in the Registration
Statement have been audited by Regardie, Brooks & Lewis, independent public
accountants, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of such firm as experts in
giving such report.
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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
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<S> <C>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
Report of Independent Public Accountants................................................................... F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1994 and 1995.................................................. F-3
Combined and Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995........ F-4
Combined and Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 1993, 1994
and 1995.................................................................................................. F-5
Combined and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995.... F-6
Notes to Combined and Consolidated Financial Statements.................................................... F-8
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
Report of Independent Public Accountants................................................................... F-35
Balance Sheets at March 31, 1995 and December 31, 1995..................................................... F-36
Statements of Income for the Years Ended March 31, 1994 and 1995, and the nine months ended December 31,
1995...................................................................................................... F-37
Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended March 31, 1994 and 1995, and for the Nine Month
Period Ended December 31, 1995............................................................................ F-38
Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended March 31, 1994 and 1995, and and the nine months ended
December 31, 1995......................................................................................... F-39
Notes to Financial Statements.............................................................................. F-40
SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1995 and June 30, 1996 (Unaudited)............................. F-45
Consolidated Statements of income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996
(Unaudited)............................................................................................... F-46
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the six months ended June 30, 1996 (Unaudited).......... F-47
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow for the six months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996 (Unaudited)........... F-48
Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)........................................... F-50
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
Balance Sheets at December 31, 1995 and June 30, 1996 (Unaudited).......................................... F-61
Statements of Income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996 (Unaudited).......... F-62
Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the six months ended June 30, 1996 (Unaudited)....................... F-63
Statements of Cash Flow for the six months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996 (Unaudited)........................ F-64
Notes to Financial Statements.............................................................................. F-65
</TABLE>
F-1
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To EchoStar Communications Corporation:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of EchoStar
Communications Corporation (a Nevada corporation) and affiliates and
subsidiaries, as described in Note 1, as of December 31, 1994 and 1995, and the
related combined and consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Companies' management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based
on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Companies
as of December 31, 1994 and 1995, and the combined and consolidated results of
their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Denver, Colorado,
February 23, 1996.
F-2
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 1994 AND 1995
(IN THOUSANDS)
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents................................................................. $ 17,506 $ 21,754
Marketable investment securities.......................................................... 31,038 15,670
Trade accounts receivable, net............................................................ 8,097 9,179
Inventories............................................................................... 20,327 38,769
Income tax receivable..................................................................... -- 3,554
Deferred tax assets....................................................................... 1,840 1,779
Other current assets...................................................................... 2,573 13,037
--------- ---------
Total current assets.................................................................. 81,381 103,742
RESTRICTED CASH AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
Escrow.................................................................................... 185,431 73,291
Other..................................................................................... 11,400 26,400
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net................................................................. 151,240 354,000
OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS..................................................................... 43,040 65,658
--------- ---------
Total assets.......................................................................... $ 472,492 $ 623,091
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Trade accounts payable.................................................................... $ 14,895 $ 19,063
Deferred programming revenue.............................................................. 6,572 5,563
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities............................................ 6,965 21,335
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt....................................... 238 4,782
--------- ---------
Total current liabilities............................................................. 28,670 50,743
1994 NOTES, net............................................................................. 334,206 382,218
LONG-TERM MORTGAGE DEBT AND NOTE PAYABLE, excluding current portion......................... 5,393 33,444
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES................................................................. 415 --
--------- ---------
Total liabilities..................................................................... 368,684 466,405
--------- ---------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 1 and 11)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred Stock, 20,000,000 shares authorized, 1,616,681 shares of Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock issued and outstanding, including accrued dividends of $938,000 and
$2,143,000, respectively................................................................. 15,990 17,195
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 3,739,400 and
10,535,003 shares issued and outstanding, respectively................................... 38 105
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 29,804,401 shares
issued and outstanding................................................................... 298 298
Common Stock Purchase Warrants............................................................ 26,133 714
Class C Common Stock, 100,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding..................... -- --
Additional paid-in capital................................................................ 62,197 151,674
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes.......... -- 239
Retained earnings (deficit)............................................................... (848) (13,539)
--------- ---------
Total stockholders' equity............................................................ 103,808 156,686
--------- ---------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity............................................ $ 472,492 $ 623,091
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to combined and consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these balance sheets.
F-3
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993, 1994 AND 1995
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1993 1994 1995
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUE:
DTH products and technical services............................................ $ 206,311 $ 172,753 $ 146,852
Programming.................................................................... 10,770 14,540 15,096
Loan origination and participation income...................................... 3,860 3,690 1,942
--------- --------- ---------
Total revenue.............................................................. 220,941 190,983 163,890
--------- --------- ---------
EXPENSES:
DTH products and technical services............................................ 161,447 133,635 120,178
Programming.................................................................... 9,378 11,670 13,610
Selling, general and administrative............................................ 30,235 30,219 35,015
Depreciation................................................................... 1,677 2,243 3,058
--------- --------- ---------
Total expenses............................................................. 202,737 177,767 171,861
--------- --------- ---------
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS).......................................................... 18,204 13,216 (7,971)
--------- --------- ---------
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest income................................................................ 1,173 8,420 14,059
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized................................... (632) (21,408) (23,985)
Losses on investments in joint ventures........................................ (50) (492) --
Minority interest in loss of consolidated joint venture and other.............. 39 753 666
--------- --------- ---------
Total other income (expense)............................................... 530 (12,727) (9,260)
--------- --------- ---------
NET INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES............................................ 18,734 489 (17,231)
BENEFIT (PROVISION) FOR INCOME TAXES............................................. 1,384 (399) 5,745
--------- --------- ---------
NET INCOME (LOSS)................................................................ $ 20,118 $ 90 $ (11,486)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON SHARES........................................... $ (848) $ (12,691)
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING....................................... 32,442 35,562
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
LOSS PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE...................................... $ (0.03) $ (0.36)
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
PRO FORMA (UNAUDITED) NET INCOME (Note 7)
Historical net income before income taxes...................................... $ 18,734
Historical (provision) benefit for income taxes................................ 1,384
Pro forma income tax effects................................................... (7,846)
---------
Pro forma net income........................................................... $ 12,272
---------
---------
Pro forma common shares outstanding............................................ 32,221
---------
---------
Pro forma earnings per common share............................................ $ 0.38
---------
---------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to combined and consolidated
financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-4
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993, 1994 AND 1995
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMMON RETAINED
STOCK OF EARNINGS
SUBSIDIARIES (DEFICIT)
SHARES OF COMMON AND AND
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL UNREALIZED TOTAL
STOCK PREFERRED COMMON PURCHASE PAID-IN HOLDING STOCKHOLDERS'
OUTSTANDING STOCK STOCK WARRANTS CAPITAL GAINS EQUITY
--------------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
(NOTES 1 AND 9)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCES, at December 31, 1992... $ 6,881 $45,447 $ 52,328
Cash contributions to capital.. 2,497 2,497
Dividends declared............. (25,243) (25,243)
Net income..................... 20,118 20,118
Reorganization effective
December 31, 1993 -
Class A Common Stock......... 2,417 $ 24 (24) --
Class B Common Stock......... 29,804 298 (298) --
Termination of Subchapter S
Status of subsidiaries........ 40,322 (40,322) --
------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
BALANCES, at December 31, 1993... 32,221 -- 322 -- 49,378 -- 49,700
Issuance of Class A Common
Stock:
For acquisition of DirectSat,
Inc......................... 999 11 8,989 9,000
For cash..................... 324 3 3,830 3,833
Issuance of 1,616,681 shares of
8% Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock............... $15,052 15,052
Issuance of Common Stock
Purchase Warrants............. $26,133 26,133
Series A Cumulative Preferred
Stock dividends............... 938 (938) --
Net income..................... 90 90
------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
BALANCES, at December 31, 1994... 33,544 15,990 336 26,133 62,197 (848) 103,808
Series A Cumulative Preferred
Stock dividends............... 1,205 (1,205) --
Issuance of Class A Common
Stock......................... 4,004 40 62,893 62,933
Common Stock Purchase Warrants
exercised..................... 2,731 26 (25,419 ) 25,393 --
Employee Savings Plan
Contribution and Launch
Bonuses Funded by Issuance of
Class A Common Stock.......... 60 1 1,191 1,192
Unrealized holding gains on
available-for-sale securities,
net........................... 239 239
Net loss....................... (11,486) (11,486)
------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
BALANCES, at December 31, 1995... 40,339 $17,195 $403 $ 714 $151,674 $(13,300) $156,686
------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
------- --------- ------ -------- ------------ ------- -------------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to combined and consolidated
financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-5
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993, 1994 AND 1995
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1993 1994 1995
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss).............................................................. $ 20,118 $ 90 $ (11,486)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating
activities--
Depreciation................................................................. 1,677 2,243 3,058
Provision for doubtful accounts.............................................. 254 (160) 920
Benefit for deferred taxes................................................... (1,941) (7,330) (4,763)
Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs................................. -- 719 1,279
Amortization of discount on 1994 Notes, net of amounts capitalized........... -- 19,943 22,249
Equity in losses in joint ventures........................................... -- 492 99
Employee benefits funded with Class A Common Stock........................... -- -- 1,192
Loss on dispositions of fixed assets......................................... -- 133 --
Change in reserve for excess and obsolete inventory.......................... (22) 502 1,212
Other, net................................................................... (30) (941) (528)
Changes in working capital items--
Trade accounts receivable.................................................. (3,439) 532 (2,002)
Inventories................................................................ 14,919 3,049 (19,654)
Income tax receivable...................................................... -- -- (3,554)
Other current assets....................................................... (1,659) (183) (10,464)
Liability under cash management program.................................... (4,018) (2,310) (57)
Trade accounts payable..................................................... 1,156 4,958 4,168
Deferred programming revenue............................................... 1,795 564 (1,009)
Accrued expenses........................................................... 1,637 611 (1,232)
Reserve for warranty costs................................................. (250) 50 (387)
Other current liabilities.................................................. 18 1,009 631
Other, net................................................................. -- 234 --
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash flows from operating activities................................. 30,215 24,205 (20,328)
--------- --------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of marketable investment securities.................................. (18,227) (15,100) (25,230)
Sales of marketable investment securities...................................... 16,132 4,439 40,563
Purchases of restricted marketable investment securities....................... -- (11,400) (15,000)
Purchases of property and equipment............................................ (19,225) (4,030) (4,077)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment................................... 383 523 29
Offering proceeds and investment earnings placed in escrow..................... -- (329,831) (9,589)
Funds released from escrow account............................................. -- 144,400 122,149
Accrued satellite contract costs............................................... -- (3,700) --
Investment in SSET............................................................. -- (8,750) --
Investment in DBSC............................................................. -- (4,210) --
Investment in DBSI............................................................. -- -- (1,000)
Long-term note receivable from DBSC............................................ -- -- (16,000)
Investments in joint ventures.................................................. (65) 1,614 --
Expenditures for satellite system under construction........................... -- (112,052) (129,506)
Expenditures from escrow for FCC authorization................................. -- (159) --
Expenditures for FCC authorizations............................................ -- -- (458)
Other.......................................................................... 92 (309) --
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash flows from investing activities................................. (20,910) (338,565) (38,119)
--------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to combined and consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-6
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993, 1994 AND 1995
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1993 1994 1995
---------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Short-term loans from banks................................................ $ 6,000 $ -- $ --
Repayments of short-term loans from banks.................................. (7,256) -- --
Minority investor investment in and loan to consolidated joint venture..... 2,504 1,000 --
Net proceeds from issuance of 1994 Notes and Common Stock Purchase
Warrants.................................................................. -- 323,325 --
Expenditures from escrow for offering costs................................ -- (837) --
Proceeds from refinancing of mortgage indebtedness......................... -- 4,200 --
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness........................................ (152) (3,435) (238)
Loans from stockholder, net................................................ 12,451 4,000 --
Repayment of loans from stockholders....................................... -- (4,075) --
Net proceeds from issuance of Class A Common Stock......................... -- 3,833 62,933
Capital contributions...................................................... 2,497 -- --
Dividends paid............................................................. (22,243) (3,000) --
---------- ----------- ---------
Net cash flows from financing activities................................. (6,199) 325,011 62,695
---------- ----------- ---------
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS.................................... 3,106 10,651 4,248
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period............................... 3,749 6,855 17,506
---------- ----------- ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period..................................... $ 6,855 $ 17,506 $ 21,754
---------- ----------- ---------
---------- ----------- ---------
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized....................... $ 633 $ 436 $ 461
Cash paid for income taxes............................................... 251 7,140 3,203
Cumulative Series A Preferred Stock dividends............................ -- 938 1,205
Dividends declared but not paid until 1994............................... 3,000 -- --
Accrued satellite contract costs......................................... 3,700 -- 15,000
Exchange of note payable to stockholder, and interest thereon, for Series
A Preferred Stock....................................................... -- 15,052 --
Issuance of Class A Common Stock to acquire investment in DirectSat
Corporation............................................................. -- 9,000 --
Property and equipment acquired under capital leases..................... -- 934 --
Note payable issued for deferred satellite construction payments......... -- -- 32,833
Employee Savings Plan Contribution and launch bonuses funded by issuance
of Class A Common Stock................................................. -- -- 1,192
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to combined and consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-7
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1993, 1994 AND 1995
(1) ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Certain companies principally owned and controlled by Mr. Charles Ergen were
reorganized in 1993 into Dish, Ltd., formerly known as EchoStar Communications
Corporation (together with its subsidiaries, "Dish, Ltd.").
The principal reorganized entities, Echosphere Corporation (formed in 1980)
and Houston Tracker Systems, Inc. (acquired in 1986), are primarily engaged in
the design, assembly, marketing and worldwide distribution of direct to home
("DTH") satellite television products. Satellite Source, Inc. contracts for
rights to purchase satellite delivered television programming for resale to
consumers and other DTH retailers. Echo Acceptance Corporation ("EAC") arranges
nationwide consumer financing for purchasers of DTH systems and programming. The
FCC has granted EchoStar Satellite Corporation ("ESC") a conditional satellite
construction permit and frequency assignments for eleven odd-numbered
frequencies at 119 DEG. West Longitude ("WL"). The reorganized group also
includes other less significant domestic enterprises and several foreign
entities involved in related activities outside the United States.
In January 1994, Dish, Ltd. announced its intention to merge a subsidiary of
Dish, Ltd. with DirectSat Corporation ("DirectSat"), an approximately 80% owned
subsidiary of SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET") at that time. The merger was approved
by the FCC and consummated in December 1994. DirectSat stockholders received an
approximate 3% equity interest in Dish, Ltd. in exchange for all of DirectSat's
outstanding stock. DirectSat's principal assets are a conditional satellite
construction permit and frequency assignments for ten even-numbered frequencies
at 119 DEG. WL granted by the FCC.
Dish, Ltd. has contracted for the construction and launch of communications
satellites. EchoStar I, a high powered direct broadcast satellite ("DBS"), was
launched on December 28, 1995. EchoStar II is currently under construction and
scheduled for launch during 1996.
In June 1994, Dish, Ltd. completed an offering of 12 7/8% Senior Secured
Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1994 Notes") (Note 5) and Common Stock Purchase
Warrants (the "Warrants") (collectively, the "Notes Offering"), receiving net
proceeds of approximately $323.3 million. Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries are
subject to the terms and conditions of the Indenture related to the 1994 Notes
(the "1994 Indenture").
EXCHANGE AND MERGER
In April 1995, a new company, EchoStar Communications Corporation (same name
as the original name of Dish, Ltd.), was formed to conduct a public offering of
its Class A Common Stock and to become the parent of Dish, Ltd. as described
below. The new company is described below as "ECC". Elsewhere in these
footnotes, unless otherwise indicated, "EchoStar" or the "Company" refers to ECC
and its subsidiaries, including Dish, Ltd. The assets of ECC, other than its
investment in Dish, Ltd., are not subject to the 1994 Indenture. Separate parent
only financial information for ECC is supplementally provided in Note 16.
Further, the 1994 Indenture places significant restrictions on the payment of
dividends or other transfers by Dish, Ltd. to ECC.
ECC completed an offering of its Class A Common Stock on June 26, 1995, and
received net proceeds of approximately $63.0 million. Concurrently, Charles W.
Ergen, President and Chief Executive Officer of both ECC and Dish, Ltd.,
exchanged all of his shares of Class B Common Stock and Series A Preferred Stock
of Dish, Ltd. for like shares of ECC (the "Exchange") in the ratio of 0.75
shares of ECC for each share of Dish, Ltd. capital stock (the "Exchange Ratio").
All employee stock options of Dish, Ltd. were also assumed by ECC, adjusted for
the Exchange Ratio. In December 1995, ECC merged Dish, Ltd. with a wholly owned
subsidiary of ECC (the "Merger") and all outstanding
F-8
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(1) ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)
shares of Dish, Ltd. Class A Common Stock and Series A Preferred Stock (other
than those held by ECC) were automatically converted into the right to receive
like shares of ECC in accordance with the Exchange Ratio. Also effective with
the Merger, all outstanding Warrants for the purchase of Dish, Ltd. Class A
Common Stock automatically became exercisable for shares of ECC's Class A Common
Stock, adjusted for the Exchange Ratio. As the result of the Exchange and
Merger, ECC owns all outstanding shares of Dish, Ltd. capital stock.
SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
Execution of its business strategy to launch and operate DBS satellites has
dramatically changed the Company's operating results and financial position. At
December 31, 1993, Dish, Ltd.'s long-term debt, exclusive of amounts related to
its DBS projects, consisted of less than $5.0 million in mortgage indebtedness
and its investments in property and equipment, other than DBS satellite
payments, aggregated less than $20.0 million. At December 31, 1995, the Company
is committed to expend approximately $450 million to build and launch its first
two satellites and has completed the sale of the 1994 Notes for that purpose
(Notes 5 and 11). Annual interest expense on the 1994 Notes and depreciation of
the investment in the first two satellites will each be of a magnitude that
exceeds historical levels of income before taxes and the Company has reported
net losses beginning in 1995 and expects net losses to continue for the
foreseeable future. The Company's plans also include the construction and launch
of additional satellites and marketing programs to promote its DBS products and
services. The Company will need to raise significant additional funds for those
purposes and there can be no assurance that necessary funds will be available
or, if available, available on terms favorable to the Company. However,
management believes, but has no assurance, that demand for its DBS products and
services will develop to provide cash flow from operation of EchoStar's Dish
Network-SM- which, together with other sources of capital, will be sufficient to
satisfy future planned expenditures. Significant delays in commencing operations
of the EchoStar DBS System, or significant delays or mission failures in the
Company's satellite launch program, may subject the Company to significant
monetary penalties and would have significant adverse consequences to its
operating results and financial condition.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires the use of management 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 for each reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
PRINCIPLES OF COMBINATION AND CONSOLIDATION
The accompanying financial statements for 1993 combine the historical cost
financial statements of all reorganized entities. The financial statements for
1994 and 1995 present the consolidation of Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries
through the date of the Exchange (Note 1) and the consolidation of ECC and its
subsidiaries, including Dish, Ltd. thereafter. The Exchange and Merger was
accounted for as a reorganization of entities under common control and the
historical cost basis of consolidated assets and liabilities was not affected by
the transaction. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated
in the combined and consolidated financial statements.
Effective June 1993, the Company acquired a fifty-one percent joint venture
interest in FlexTracker Sdn. Bhd. ("FlexTracker"), a Malaysian limited liability
company. A Singapore electronics manufacturing company owned the forty-nine
percent minority interest. FlexTracker manufactured
F-9
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
integrated and stand-alone receivers and positioners exclusively for the
Company. In December 1994, the Company terminated the FlexTracker joint venture
and effectively sold its interest in the joint venture's net assets to the
Singapore company for $1.8 million. The Company's share of FlexTracker's losses
for 1993 and 1994 amounted to approximately $50,000 and $1.3 million,
respectively, and an additional $492,000 of loss was recognized upon sale of the
net assets. FlexTracker's financial statements have been consolidated in the
accompanying combined and consolidated financial statements from the date of
acquisition through the date of disposition.
The Company accounts for investments in fifty percent or less owned entities
using the equity method. At December 31, 1994 and 1995, these investments were
not material to the combined and consolidated financial statements of the
Company.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION GAINS AND LOSSES
The functional currency of the Company's foreign subsidiaries is the U.S.
dollar because their sales and purchases are predominantly denominated in that
currency. Transactions denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are
recorded based on exchange rates at the time such transactions arise. Subsequent
changes in exchange rates result in transaction gains and losses which are
reflected in income as unrealized (based on period end translation) or realized
(upon settlement of the transaction). Net transaction gains (losses) for 1993,
1994 and 1995 were $19,000, $40,000 and $70,000 respectively.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
The Company considers all liquid investments purchased with an original
maturity of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents as of
December 31, 1994 and 1995 consist of money market funds, corporate notes and
commercial paper stated at cost which equates to market value.
MARKETABLE INVESTMENT SECURITIES AND RESTRICTED CASH AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES
At December 31, 1994 marketable investment securities were recorded in the
financial statements at amortized cost and were generally held to maturity. At
December 31, 1995, the Company has classified all marketable investment
securities as available for sale. Accordingly, these investments are reflected
at market value based on quoted market prices. Related unrealized gains and
losses are reported as a separate component of stockholders' equity, net of
related deferred income taxes of $146,000 at December 31, 1995. The specific
identification method is used to determine cost in computing realized gains and
losses. The major components of marketable investment securities as of December
31, 1994 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands).
F-10
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, 1995
DECEMBER 31, 1994 -------------------------------------
---------------------- UNREALIZED
AMORTIZED MARKET AMORTIZED HOLDING MARKET
COST VALUE COST GAIN (LOSS) VALUE
----------- --------- ----------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Commercial paper........................... $ 19,976 $ 20,233 $ 1,126 $ -- $ 1,126
Corporate notes............................ 10,992 10,987 12,353 (19) 12,334
Municipal bonds............................ 70 70 -- -- --
Government bonds........................... -- -- 2,038 -- 2,038
Mutual funds............................... -- -- 188 (16) 172
----------- --------- ----------- --- ---------
$ 31,038 $ 31,290 $ 15,705 $ (35) $ 15,670
----------- --------- ----------- --- ---------
----------- --------- ----------- --- ---------
</TABLE>
Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities in Escrow as reflected on the
accompanying balance sheets represent net proceeds received from the Notes
Offering, plus interest earned, less amounts expended to date in connection with
the development, construction and launch of EchoStar's Dish Network-SM-. The
escrow funds are held by an escrow agent in an account (the "Escrow Account")
for the benefit of the holders of the 1994 Notes and are invested in certain
debt and other marketable securities, as permitted by the 1994 Indenture, until
disbursed for the express purposes identified in the Notes Offering prospectus.
The major components of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities as of December
31, 1994 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, 1995
DECEMBER 31, 1994 -----------------------------------
------------------------ UNREALIZED
AMORTIZED MARKET AMORTIZED HOLDING MARKET
COST VALUE COST GAIN VALUE
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Commercial paper.......................... $ 94,315 $ 94,909 $ 66,214 $ -- $ 66,214
Corporate notes........................... 8,954 8,954 -- -- --
Government bonds.......................... -- -- 32,904 420 33,324
Municipal bonds........................... 92,513 93,010 -- -- --
Accrued interest.......................... 1,049 1,049 153 -- 153
----------- ----------- ----------- ----- ---------
$ 196,831 $ 197,922 $ 99,271 $ 420 $ 99,691
----------- ----------- ----------- ----- ---------
----------- ----------- ----------- ----- ---------
</TABLE>
Other Restricted Cash includes $11.4 million to satisfy certain covenants
regarding launch insurance required by the 1994 Indenture. The Company is
required to maintain launch insurance and restricted cash totalling $225.0
million for each of EchoStar I and EchoStar II. The Company has obtained $219.3
million of launch insurance on each satellite, and, together with the cash
segregated and reserved on the accompanying balance sheets, has satisfied its
insurance obligations under the 1994 Indenture. In addition, as of December 31,
1995, $15.0 million was in an escrow account established pursuant to a
manufacturing contract for payment to the manufacturer as certain milestones are
reached.
REVENUE RECOGNITION AND TRADE ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Revenue from sales of DTH products is recognized upon shipment to customers.
The Company maintains a reserve for potential losses in collection of its trade
accounts receivable based upon estimates of amounts that may ultimately be
uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $186,000 and $1.1 million
as of December 31, 1994 and 1995, respectively.
F-11
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is
determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Proprietary products
are manufactured by outside suppliers to the Company's specifications; however,
final testing and assembly is performed by the Company. The Company also
distributes non-proprietary products purchased from other manufacturers.
Manufactured inventories include materials, labor and manufacturing overhead.
Cost of other inventories includes parts, contract manufacturers' delivered
price, assembly and testing labor, and related overhead, including handling and
storage costs. The major components of inventory were as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
DBS receiver components................................................ $ -- $ 9,615
Spare parts............................................................ 2,759 2,089
Competitor DBS Receivers............................................... 2,207 9,404
Finished goods......................................................... 16,946 20,458
Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory.............................. (1,585) (2,797)
--------- ---------
$ 20,327 $ 38,769
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
Other current assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
DBS inventory deposit................................................... $ -- $ 10,000
Receivables for funded loans............................................ 257 437
Other................................................................... 2,316 2,600
--------- ---------
$ 2,573 $ 13,037
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
In conjunction with its commitments to purchase DBS satellite receivers
(Note 11), the Company has paid a deposit of $10.0 million to one of its
manufacturers. The deposit will be applied towards future payments for the DBS
satellite receivers as they are delivered during 1996.
Other current assets include receivables for consumer loans funded by EAC
but expected to be reimbursed to EAC on a nonrecourse basis by two unrelated
finance companies, normally within two business days after the credit is
accepted by those companies. Unreimbursed fundings were $257,000 and $437,000 as
of December 31, 1994 and 1995, respectively, all of which were subsequently
reimbursed. Total loans sourced by EAC during 1993, 1994 and 1995 were $85.6
million, $64.7 million and $50.1 million, respectively. In addition, EAC sourced
$8.6 million of leases in 1995.
Loan origination fees charged to the applicable DTH dealers are recognized
in income upon receipt of funding reimbursement from the purchaser of the loans.
EAC also receives a percentage of monthly finance charges billed by the
purchaser of the loans which is recognized in income as it becomes due to EAC.
FCC AUTHORIZATIONS AND ORGANIZATIONAL COSTS
FCC authorizations and organizational costs are recorded at cost and are
amortized using the straight-line method. Amortization periods for FCC
authorization costs are determined at the time
F-12
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
the services related to the applicable FCC authorization commences, or
capitalized costs are written off at the time efforts to provide services are
abandoned. FCC authorization costs are expected to have a useful life of
approximately 12 years. Organizational costs are being amortized over five
years.
DEFERRED DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS AND DEBT DISCOUNT
Costs of completing the Notes Offering have been deferred (Note 4) and are
being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 1994 Notes.
Amortization of the original issue discount related to the Notes Offering (Note
5) is also being amortized and included in interest cost incurred so as to
reflect a constant rate of interest on the accredited balance of the 1994 Notes.
DEFERRED PROGRAMMING REVENUE
Deferred programming revenue consists of payments received from consumers
and dealers for satellite television programming to be provided. The revenue is
recognized on a straight-line basis over the period the programming is provided,
which generally does not exceed one year.
ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
The composition of accrued expenses and other current liabilities is as
follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Accrued satellite contract costs........................................ $ -- $ 15,000
Liability under cash management program................................. 57 --
Accrued expenses........................................................ 4,667 3,850
Reserve for warranty costs.............................................. 1,400 1,013
Other................................................................... 841 1,472
--------- ---------
$ 6,965 $ 21,335
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
The liability under cash management program represents checks written and
released in excess of balances presently on deposit with certain banks. As
checks clear these bank accounts, the resulting overdrafts are funded daily from
funds available in a concentration account at another bank.
The Company's proprietary products are under warranty against defects in
material and workmanship for one year from the date of original retail purchase.
The reserve for warranty costs is based upon historical units sold and expected
repair costs.
ADVERTISING COSTS
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and totaled $3.2 million, $2.3
million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995,
respectively.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and
development costs totaled $5.1 million, $5.9 million and $5.0 million for the
years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995, respectively.
INCOME TAXES
Prior to the December 31, 1993 reorganization (Note 1), the principal
combined entities were Subchapter S corporations and their income was taxable to
the stockholders rather than the companies. The provision for income taxes
reflected only amounts payable to states and foreign tax jurisdictions that did
not recognize Subchapter S status. Effective December 31, 1993, Subchapter S
status
F-13
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
terminated and the Company will prospectively file consolidated corporate
federal and state income tax returns. As required by Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" ("SFAS No. 109"),
this change in tax status was recognized by establishing deferred tax assets and
liabilities for temporary differences between the tax basis and amounts reported
in the accompanying combined and consolidated balance sheets (Note 7).
Under SFAS No. 109, the current provision for income taxes represents actual
or estimated amounts payable or refundable on tax returns filed or to be filed
for each year. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for the
estimated future tax effects of: (a) temporary differences between the tax basis
of assets and liabilities and amounts reported in the combined and consolidated
balance sheets, and (b) operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. The
overall change in deferred tax assets and liabilities for the period measures
the deferred tax expense for the period. Effects of changes in enacted tax laws
on deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected as adjustments to tax
expense in the period of enactment. The measurement of deferred tax assets may
be reduced by a valuation allowance based on judgmental assessment of available
evidence if deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax
assets will not be realized.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings per share has been calculated based on the weighted average number
of shares of common stock issued and outstanding and, if dilutive, common stock
equivalents (warrants and employee stock options) during the years ended
December 31, 1994 and 1995; and net income has been adjusted for cumulative
dividends on the 8% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock (the "Series A Preferred
Stock"). Earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 1993 has been
calculated and presented on a pro forma basis as if the shares issued to effect
the December 31, 1993 reorganization (Note 1) were outstanding during each
period.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") has issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for Impairment of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of" ("SFAS No. 121"). The
Company will be required to adopt SFAS No. 121 in 1996 and expects that its
ultimate adoption will not have a significant impact on the Company's financial
position, results of operations or cash flows.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS No. 123"), issued by the FASB in October 1995
and effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995, encourages,
but does not require, a fair value based method of accounting for employee stock
options or similar equity instruments. It also allows an entity to elect to
continue to measure compensation cost under Accounting Principles Board Opinion
No. 25 "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB No. 25"), but requires
pro forma disclosures of net income and earnings per share as if the fair value
based method of accounting had been applied. The Company expects to adopt SFAS
No. 123 in 1996. While the Company is still evaluating SFAS No. 123, it
currently expects to elect to measure compensation cost under APB No. 25 and
comply with the pro forma disclosure requirements. If the Company makes this
election, this statement will have no impact on the Company's results of
operations.
RECLASSIFICATIONS
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year's financial
statements to conform to the current year's financial statement presentation.
F-14
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(3) PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
Cost includes interest capitalized of $370,000, $5.7 million and $25.8 million
during the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995, respectively on the
EchoStar DBS System during construction at the Company's effective borrowing
rate. The major components of property and equipment were as follows (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ESTIMATED DECEMBER 31,
USEFUL ------------------------
LIFE 1995
(IN YEARS) 1994 -
---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Construction in progress......................................... -- $ 139,500 $ 303,174
Land............................................................. -- 1,613 1,613
Buildings and improvements....................................... 7-40 8,936 21,006
Furniture, fixtures and equipment................................ 2-12 6,081 17,163
Vehicles......................................................... 7 992 1,310
Tooling.......................................................... 2 1,339 2,039
Furniture and equipment held for sale............................ -- 17,062
Computer equipment held for sale................................. -- 902
----------- -----------
Total property and equipment..................................... 158,461 364,269
Less-Accumulated depreciation.................................... (7,221) (10,269)
----------- -----------
Net property and equipment................................... $ 151,240 $ 354,000
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>
Construction in progress includes capitalized costs related to the
construction and launch (Note 11) of EchoStar I, which was launched in late
December 1995, EchoStar II, which is scheduled for launch prior to the end of
1996 and EchoStar III.
Construction in progress consisted of the following (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
------------------------
1994 1995
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Progress amounts for satellite construction and launch, capitalized interest,
launch insurance, launch and in-orbit tracking, telemetry and control
services:
EchoStar I.................................................................. $ 75,613 $ 193,629
EchoStar II................................................................. 62,438 88,634
EchoStar III................................................................ -- 20,801
Uplink facility............................................................. 1,449 --
Other....................................................................... -- 110
----------- -----------
$ 139,500 $ 303,174
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>
F-15
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(4) OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS
The major components of other noncurrent assets were as follows (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Deferred debt issuance costs, net of amortization...................... $ 11,891 $ 10,622
FCC authorizations..................................................... 9,519 11,309
SSET convertible subordinated debentures and accrued interest.......... 9,029 9,610
DBSI convertible subordinated debentures............................... -- 1,000
Deferred tax assets, net............................................... 7,431 12,109
Investment in DBSC..................................................... 4,210 4,111
Long-term note receivable from DBSC.................................... -- 16,000
Warehousing bond....................................................... 432 468
Prepaid travel......................................................... 315 293
Other.................................................................. 213 136
--------- ---------
$ 43,040 $ 65,658
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
The merger with DirectSat described in Note 1 was accounted for as a
purchase. DirectSat's assets were valued at $9.0 million by the Company at the
time of the merger and are included in FCC authorizations in the above summary.
DirectSat has been granted a conditional satellite construction permit, specific
orbital slot assignments and frequency assignments by the FCC. The DirectSat
permits conditionally authorize DirectSat to provide DBS service utilizing: (i)
ten even-numbered channels at 119 DEG. WL, the same orbital location that has
been assigned to ESC; (ii) one channel at 110 DEG. WL; and (iii) 11 odd-numbered
channels at 175 DEG. WL. The Company expects to use DirectSat's approved
frequencies at 119 DEG. WL for the EchoStar II satellite.
The Company also purchased $8.75 million of SSET's 6.5% convertible
subordinated debentures which, if converted, would represent approximately 11.6%
of SSET's common stock, based on the number of shares of SSET common stock
outstanding at December 31, 1995. Management estimates that the fair value of
the SSET debentures approximates their carrying value in the accompanying
financial statements based on current interest rates and the conversion features
contained in the debentures. SSET is a reporting company under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 engaged in the manufacture and sale of satellite
telecommunications equipment. In March 1994, SSET also sold to the Company for
$1.25 million an approximate 6% ownership interest in the stock of Direct
Broadcasting Satellite Corporation ("DBSC") and certain notes and accounts
receivable from DBSC.
In November 1994, the Company resolved a suit brought by the Company against
DBSC regarding enforceability of the notes and accounts receivable. The
receivables were exchanged for shares of DBSC common stock and the Company
purchased additional DBSC shares for $2,960,000 so that, together with the
shares of DBSC acquired from SSET, the Company presently owns approximately 40%
of the outstanding common stock of DBSC. DBSC's principal assets include an FCC
conditional satellite construction permit and specific orbital slot assignments
for eleven DBS frequencies at 61.5 DEG. WL and eleven DBS frequencies at
175 DEG. WL.
The Company has negotiated the merger of DBSC with a subsidiary of the
Company. The merger has been approved by DBSC shareholders but may not be
completed until the FCC has approved the merger. Assuming FCC approval for
consummation of this merger, the Company will hold, through its
F-16
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(4) OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS (CONTINUED)
DBSC subsidiary, the permit and slot assignments for these frequencies. In
connection with the merger, the Company expects to issue approximately 675,000
shares of its Class A Common Stock to DBSC shareholders in exchange for all
remaining DBSC stock.
In December 1995, the Company advanced DBSC $16.0 million to make payments
under their satellite construction contract. The Company has a note receivable
from DBSC which bears interest at 11.5% and matures December 29, 2003. Under the
terms of the promissory note, equal installments of principal and interest are
due annually commencing in December 1997. This note is secured by all the assets
of DBSC as defined in the Security Agreement. Management estimates that the fair
value of this note approximates its carrying value in the accompanying financial
statements based on current risk adjusted interest rates.
In 1995 the Company also purchased $1.0 million of DBS Industries, Inc.'s
("DBSI") convertible subordinated debentures which, if converted, would
represent less than 5% of DBSI's common stock, based on the number of shares of
DBSI common stock outstanding at December 31, 1995. The debentures bear interest
at prime plus 2%, adjusted and payable quarterly (10.5% at December 31, 1995),
and mature July 1, 1998. The debentures are secured by 125,000 shares of DBSC's
common stock and 2,000 shares of common stock of E-SAT Corporation which is
currently owned 80% by the Company. DBSI owns a minority interest in DBSC, is a
reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is engaged in
the development of satellite and radio systems for use in automating the control
and distribution of gas and electric power by utility companies. Management
estimates that the fair value of the DBSI's debentures approximates their
carrying value in the accompanying financial statements based on current
interest rates and the conversion features contained in the debentures. In
January 1996, the Company purchased an additional $3 million of DBSI's
convertible subordinated debentures.
(5) SENIOR SECURED NOTES
On June 7, 1994, Dish, Ltd. completed the Notes Offering of 624,000 units
consisting of $624 million aggregate principal amount of the 12 7/8% Senior
Secured Notes (the "1994 Notes") and 3,744,000 Warrants for the purchase of
Dish, Ltd. Class A Common Stock. Effective with the Merger (Note 1), these
Warrants became exercisable for 2,808,000 Shares of ECC's Class A Common Stock
(Note 9). The Notes Offering resulted in net proceeds to Dish, Ltd. of $323.3
million. At December 31, 1994, the 1994 Notes were reflected in the financial
statements at $334.2 million, net of unamortized discount of $289.8 million. At
December 31, 1995, the 1994 Notes totaled $382.2 million, net of unamortized
discount of $241.8 million. A limited trading market exists for the 1994 Notes.
However, based on information available to the Company, the 1994 Notes traded
for approximately $690 per bond near December 31, 1995. This suggests a current
aggregate market value of the 1994 Notes of approximately $430.6 million.
The 1994 Notes rank senior in right of payment to all subordinated
indebtedness of Dish, Ltd. and PARI PASSU in right of payment with all other
senior indebtedness of Dish, Ltd., subject to the terms of an Intercreditor
Agreement between Dish, Ltd., certain of its principal subsidiaries and certain
creditors thereof. The 1994 Notes are secured by liens on certain assets of
Dish, Ltd., including EchoStar I and EchoStar II and all other components of the
EchoStar DBS System owned by Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries. The 1994 Notes are
guaranteed by each material direct subsidiary of Dish, Ltd. (Note 12). Although
the 1994 Notes are titled "Senior": (i) Dish, Ltd. has not issued, and does not
have any current arrangements to issue, any significant indebtedness to which
the 1994 Notes would be senior, however, Senior Secured Notes being offered for
sale subsequent to December 31, 1995, by
F-17
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(5) SENIOR SECURED NOTES (CONTINUED)
EchoStar Satellite Broadcasting Corporation, another wholly owned subsidiary of
ECC, will effectively be subordinated to the 1994 Notes and all other
liabilities of Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries; and (ii) at December 31, 1994
and 1995, the 1994 Notes were effectively subordinated to approximately $5.6
million and $5.4 million of mortgage indebtedness, respectively, with respect to
certain assets of Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries, not including the EchoStar DBS
System. Further, the 1994 Notes are subordinate to advances under the Credit
Facility (Note 6), and will be ranked PARI PASSU with the security interest of
approximately $30.0 million of contractor financing.
Interest on the 1994 Notes currently is not payable in cash but accrues
through June 1, 1999, with the 1994 Notes accrediting to $624.0 million by that
date. Thereafter, interest on the 1994 Notes will be payable in cash
semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing December 1,
1999. Except under certain circumstances requiring prepayment premiums, and in
other limited circumstances, the 1994 Notes are not redeemable at Dish, Ltd.'s
option prior to June 1, 1999. Thereafter, the 1994 Notes will be subject to
redemption, at the option of Dish, Ltd., in whole or in part, at redemption
prices ranging from 104.828% during the year commencing June 1, 1999 to 100% on
or after June 1, 2002 of principal, together with accrued and unpaid interest
thereon to the redemption date. On each of June 1, 2002 and June 1, 2003, Dish,
Ltd. will be required to redeem 25% of the original aggregate principal amount
of 1994 Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount
thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption
date. The remaining principal of the 1994 Notes will mature on June 1, 2004.
In the event of a change of control and upon the occurrence of certain other
events, as described in the 1994 Indenture, Dish, Ltd. will be required to make
an offer to each holder of 1994 Notes to repurchase all or any part of such
holder's 1994 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the accredited value
thereof on the date of purchase, if prior to June 1, 1999, or 101% of the
aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest
thereon to the date of purchase, if on or after June 1, 1999.
The 1994 Indenture contains restrictive covenants that, among other things,
impose limitations on Dish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries with respect to their
ability to: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) issue preferred stock; (iii)
apply the proceeds of certain asset sales; (iv) create, incur or assume liens;
(v) create dividend and other payment restrictions with respect to Dish, Ltd.'s
subsidiaries; (vi) merge, consolidate or sell assets; (vii) incur subordinated
or junior debt; and (viii) enter into transactions with affiliates. In addition,
Dish, Ltd., may pay dividends on its equity securities only if (1) no default is
continuing under the 1994 Indenture; and (2) after giving effect to such
dividend, Dish, Ltd.'s ratio of total indebtedness to cash flow (calculated in
accordance with the 1994 Indenture) would not exceed 4.0 to 1. Moreover, the
aggregate amount of such dividends generally may not exceed the sum of 50% of
Dish, Ltd.'s consolidated net income (calculated in accordance with the 1994
Indenture) from the date of issuance of the 1994 Notes, plus 100% of the
aggregate net proceeds to Dish, Ltd. from the issuance and sale of certain
equity interests of Dish, Ltd. (including common stock).
F-18
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(6) SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT
LONG-TERM MORTGAGE DEBT
In addition to the 1994 Notes (Note 5), long-term debt consists of the
following as of December 31, 1994 and 1995 (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
8.75% note payable for deferred satellite contract payments due in equal monthly
installments of $677,590, including interest, through February 2001; secured by
substantially all assets of Dish, Ltd., and Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries...................... $ -- $ 32,833
8.0% mortgage note payable due in equal monthly installments of $41,635, including interest,
through May 2008; secured by land and office building...................................... 4,088 3,909
10.5% mortgage note payable due in equal monthly installments of $9,442, including interest,
through November 1998; final payment of $854,000 due November 1998; secured by land and
warehouse building......................................................................... 927 910
9.9375% mortgage note payable due in equal quarterly principal installments of $10,625, plus
interest, through April 2009; secured by land and office building.......................... 616 574
--------- ---------
Total long-term debt, excluding the 1994 Notes.............................................. 5,631 38,226
Less current installments................................................................... (238) (4,782)
--------- ---------
Long-term debt, excluding current installments.............................................. $ 5,393 $ 33,444
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
Aggregate maturities of the above long-term mortgage debt are as follows:
1996, $4.8 million; 1997, $6.2 million; 1998, $7.6 million; 1999, $7.3 million;
2000, $8.0 million; and thereafter, $4.3 million. In addition, contractor
financing of $28.0 million at the prime rate is available for EchoStar II
payable in installments over five years following the launch (Note 11).
DEFERRED SATELLITE CONTRACT PAYMENTS
The majority of the purchase price for the satellites is required to be paid
in progress payments, with the remainder payable in the form of non-contingent
payments deferred until EchoStar I and EchoStar II are in orbit, with interest
at the prime rate over a period of five years after the delivery and launch of
each such satellite (the "Deferred Payments"). As security for the portion of
the Deferred Payments due to the contractor (Martin Marietta), Dish, Ltd. has:
(i) granted a security interest in substantially all assets of Dish, Ltd. and
Dish, Ltd.'s subsidiaries (the "Dish, Ltd. subsidiaries"), other than the stock
of the EchoStar subsidiaries and the proceeds derived from the sale of the 1994
Notes, subordinate to the first security interest in the assets of ESC granted
to the Trustee under the 1994 Indenture (Note 5), and to the liens granted to
any commercial bank which provides a revolving credit facility to Dish, Ltd.,
except that such security interest ranks PARI PASSU with the security interest
in the assets of ESC granted for the benefit of the holders of the 1994 Notes
with respect to $30.0 million of the Deferred Payments; and (ii) caused Dish,
Ltd. and its subsidiaries to guarantee payment in full of such Deferred
Payments.
Martin Marietta has a security interest in the EchoStar DBS System which,
with respect to $30.0 million of the Deferred Payments, ranks PARI PASSU with
the lien on such assets granted for the benefit of the holders of the 1994
Notes, and, with respect to the remainder of the Deferred Payments, is
subordinated to the lien on such assets granted for the benefit of the holders
of the 1994 Notes.
F-19
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(6) SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
However, following any default on the Deferred Payments, Martin Marietta is
prohibited from realizing on any of such collateral for a period of at least
five years following consummation of the Notes Offering, and in any event for
180 days following such default. Martin Marietta also has a security interest in
the assets of the Dish, Ltd. subsidiaries other than ESC which lien, with
respect to the assets of certain of the Dish, Ltd. subsidiaries, ranks senior to
the lien on such assets granted for the benefit of the holders of the 1994
Notes.
LONG-TERM NOTES PAYABLE TO STOCKHOLDER
As of December 31, 1993, ESC had a long-term note payable to its principal
stockholder, including cumulative accrued interest at prime, of $14.7 million.
The loan proceeds were used to make payments due pursuant to the satellite
construction project (Note 11). The note accrued interest at 10% per annum from
January 1, 1994 to March 21, 1994. The stockholder exchanged the note together
with accrued but unpaid interest for Series A Preferred Stock on May 6, 1994
(Note 16). The principal stockholder also advanced $4.0 million to EchoStar in
1994 used to fund transactions with SSET (Note 4) which was repaid from proceeds
of the 1994 Notes.
The Company also had a noninterest-bearing note payable to its principal
stockholder at December 31, 1993 of $75,000 which was repaid in January 1994.
BANK CREDIT FACILITY
On May 6, 1994, the principal subsidiaries of Dish, Ltd., except ESC (the
"Borrowers"), entered into an agreement with Bank of America Illinois (the
"Bank"), to provide a revolving credit facility (the "Credit Facility") for
working capital advances and for letters of credit necessary for inventory
purchases and satellite construction payments. The maximum amount available to
the Borrowers under the Credit Facility is the lesser of the "Borrowing Base"
(as defined in the Credit Facility) or $17.0 million, if prior to March 6, 1996,
or $14.5 million,
F-20
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(6) SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
if on or after March 6, 1996. The Borrowing Base includes specified percentages
of eligible receivables, inventory and marketable investment securities. At
December 31, 1995 the Borrowing Base exceeded $17.0 million. Advances under the
Credit Facility bear interest at: (i) the Bank's Reference Rate (as defined in
the Credit Facility); (ii) Eurodollar rate plus 2% per annum or (iii) the
secondary CD bid rate plus 2.25% per annum, at the Borrowers' choice. Advances
pursuant to the Credit Facility are secured by substantially all of the assets
of the Borrowers. At December 31, 1995, standby letters of credit totaled $15.5
million, and there were no documentary letters of credit or advances
outstanding.
The Credit Facility contains customary representations, covenants and
conditions to borrowing. The Credit Facility also contains a number of negative
covenants that restrict the Borrowers from, among other things, incurring
additional indebtedness, creating liens on their assets, providing guarantees,
entering into merger or consolidation transactions, or disposing of their assets
outside the ordinary course of business. Except in certain circumstances
specified in the Credit Facility, the Borrowers are able to pay dividends to
Dish, Ltd. in an amount not to exceed 50% of excess cash flow (as defined in the
Credit Facility) in 1995 and 1996.
(7) INCOME TAXES
As stated in Note 2, the combined entities terminated their Subchapter S
status on December 31, 1993. This change in tax status was recognized by
establishing a net deferred tax asset of $1.9 million on that date for temporary
differences between tax basis and amounts reported in the accompanying combined
and consolidated balance sheet. The current provision for income taxes for 1993
reflects only amounts payable to certain states and foreign tax jurisdictions
that do not recognize Subchapter S status. Beginning in 1994, the group filed
consolidated corporate federal and state income tax returns.
The components of the (provision) benefit for income taxes are as follows
(in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
-------------------------------
1993 1994 1995
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current (provision) benefit
Federal..................................................... $ -- $ (5,951) $ 1,350
State....................................................... (128) (853) (67)
Foreign..................................................... (429) (925) (301)
--------- --------- ---------
(557) (7,729) 982
--------- --------- ---------
Deferred benefit
Federal..................................................... 1,686 6,342 4,383
State....................................................... 255 988 380
--------- --------- ---------
1,941 7,330 4,763
--------- --------- ---------
Total benefit (provision)................................. $ 1,384 $ (399) $ 5,745
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>
F-21
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(7) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
The types of temporary differences that give rise to a significant portion
of net deferred tax assets and their approximate tax effects as of December 31,
1994 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1994 1995
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Current deferred tax assets
Inventory reserves and cost methods................................... $ 438 $ 834
Reserve for warranty costs............................................ 532 385
Accrued customer incentives........................................... 234 --
Accrued employee incentives........................................... 418 168
Allowance for doubtful accounts....................................... 106 456
Unrealized holding gain on marketable investment securities........... -- (153)
Other................................................................. 112 89
--------- ---------
Net current deferred tax assets................................... 1,840 1,779
--------- ---------
Noncurrent deferred tax assets
Amortization of original issue discount (included in other noncurrent
assets).............................................................. 7,431 15,439
Other................................................................. -- 7
--------- ---------
7,431 15,446
--------- ---------
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities
Capitalized costs deducted for tax.................................... -- (2,351)
Depreciation.......................................................... -- (986)
--------- ---------
-- (3,337)
--------- ---------
Noncurrent net deferred tax assets................................ 7,431 12,109
--------- ---------
Net deferred tax assets........................................... $ 9,271 $ 13,888
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>
No valuation allowance has been provided for the above deferred tax assets
because the Company currently believes it is more likely than not that these
assets will be realized. If future operating results differ materially and
adversely from the Company's current expectations, its judgment regarding the
need for a valuation allowance may change.
PRO FORMA TAX EFFECTS
The combined and consolidated statements of income present, on an unaudited
pro forma basis, net income for 1993 as if the Company had filed consolidated C
Corporation federal and state income tax returns for that year. The pro forma
tax effects assume foreign taxes paid would have been fully creditable against
United States federal taxes payable and that the deferred tax assets established
on December 31, 1993 as described above, would have been provided for as the
related temporary
F-22
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(7) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
differences arose. The pro forma provisions for income taxes for 1993 and the
actual tax provisions for 1994 and 1995 are reconciled to the amounts computed
by applying the statutory federal tax rate to income before taxes as follows
(amounts in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1993 1994 1995
---------------------- ------------------------ ----------------------
AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT
--------- ----------- ----------- ----------- --------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Statutory rate...................................... $ (6,557) (35.0)% $ (166) (34.0)% $ 6,031 35.0%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit.......... (450) (2.4) (88) (18.0) 203 1.2
Tax exempt interest income.......................... 350 1.9 60 12.3 10 0.1
Research and development credits.................... 195 1.0 156 31.9 31 0.2
Non-deductible interest expense..................... -- -- (258) (52.7) (293) (1.7)
Other............................................... -- -- (103) (21.1) (237) (1.5)
--------- ----- ----------- ----- --------- ---
Total (provision) benefit for income taxes (pro
forma in 1993)................................. (6,462) (34.5)% $ (399) (81.6)% $ 5,745 33.3%
----- ----------- ----- --------- ---
----- ----------- ----- --------- ---
Less: Historical benefit for income taxes........... 1,384
---------
Pro forma tax effects............................... $ (7,846)
---------
---------
</TABLE>
(8) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN AND EXECUTIVE INCENTIVE BONUS PLANS
The Company has a 401(k) Employee Savings Plan (the "401(k) Plan") for
eligible employees. Voluntary employee contributions to the 401(k) Plan may be
matched 50% by the Company, subject to a maximum annual contribution by the
Company of $1,000 per employee. The Company may also make an annual
discretionary contribution to the plan with approval by the Company's Board of
Directors, subject to the maximum deductible limit provided by the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Company's total cash contributions to the
401(k) Plan were $572,000, $170,000 and $177,000 for 1993, 1994 and 1995,
respectively. Also in 1995, the Company contributed 55,000 shares of its Class A
Common Stock (fair value of approximately $1.1 million) to the 401(k) Plan as a
discretionary contribution.
During the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995, the Company's Board
of Directors declared discretionary bonuses totaling $834,000, $711,000 and
$75,000, respectively. Also, a launch bonus award of 10 shares of the Company's
Class A Common Stock to all full time employees with more than 90 days service
as of December 16, 1995 was awarded. A total of approximately 4,900 shares with
an aggregate value of approximately $78,000 was issued.
(9) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Ownership of each of the subsidiaries was generally uniform at the time of
formation of Dish, Ltd. described in Note 1. As of December 31, 1993, the
stockholders contributed their shares in the subsidiaries for an aggregate of
7,500 shares of Common Stock of Dish, Ltd. Retained earnings that had not been
distributed prior to the reorganization and related termination of Subchapter S
status were constructively distributed to the stockholders and contributed to
Dish, Ltd. as additional paid-in capital.
Dividends declared and paid during the three years ended December 31, 1994,
included amounts to allow the stockholders to pay taxes on Subchapter S income
and for investment in and advances to ESC related to construction of EchoStar I
and EchoStar II (Notes 2, 3 and 6).
F-23
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(9) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)
COMMON STOCK
The Class A, Class B and Class C Common Stock are equivalent in all respects
except voting rights. Holders of Class A and Class C Common Stock are entitled
to one vote per share and holders of Class B Common Stock are entitled to ten
votes per share. Each share of Class B and Class C Common Stock is convertible
at the option of the holder, into one share of Class A Common Stock. Upon a
change in control of ECC, each holder of outstanding shares of Class C Common
Stock is entitled to ten votes for each share of Class C Common Stock held by
the holder. ECC's principal stockholder owns all outstanding Class B Common
Stock and all other stockholders own Class A Common Stock.
SERIES A PREFERRED STOCK
On May 6, 1994, the Company exchanged 1,616,681 shares of its Preferred
Stock with its principal stockholder in consideration for the cancellation of a
note, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon. Approximately 5%, or 80,834
shares, of the Preferred Stock were subsequently sold to another stockholder and
officer of the Company. The principal stockholder has pledged all of his
Preferred Stock to Martin Marietta as collateral security for contractor
financing (Note 6).
Each share of the Preferred Stock is convertible, at the option of the
holder, into one share of Class A Common Stock, subject to adjustment from time
to time upon the occurrence of certain events, including, among other things:
(i) dividends or distributions on Class A Common Stock payable in Class A Common
Stock or certain other capital stock; (ii) subdivisions, combinations or certain
reclassifications of Class A Common Stock; and (iii) issuances of Class A Common
Stock or rights, warrants or options to purchase Class A Common Stock at a price
per share less than the liquidation preference per share. In the event of the
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of EchoStar, the holders of Preferred
Stock would be entitled to receive an amount equal to approximately $10.64 per
share as of December 31, 1995.
The aggregate liquidation preference for all outstanding shares of Series A
Preferred Stock is limited to the principal amount represented by the note, plus
accrued and unpaid dividends thereon. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock is
entitled to receive dividends equal to eight percent per annum of the initial
liquidation preference for such share. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock
automatically converts into shares of Class A Common Stock in the event they are
transferred to any person other than certain permitted transferees and is
entitled to the equivalent of ten votes for each share of Class A Common Stock
into which it is convertible. Except as otherwise required by law, holders of
Series A Preferred Stock vote together with the holders of Class A and Class B
Common Stock as a single class.
All accrued dividends payable to Mr. Ergen on his Dish, Ltd. Series A
Preferred Stock through the date of the Exchange ($1.4 million), and all accrued
dividends payable to the remaining holder of Dish, Ltd. Series A Preferred Stock
through the date of the Merger ($107,000), will remain obligations of Dish, Ltd.
(Note 1); however, no additional dividends will accrue with respect to the Dish,
Ltd. Series A Preferred Stock. The 1994 Indenture places significant
restrictions of payment of those dividends, and dividends are not expected to be
paid in the foreseeable future. Through December 31, 1995, additional accrued
dividends payable to Mr. Ergen by ECC on the ECC Series A Preferred Stock
totaled $588,000.
Cumulative but unpaid dividends totaled $938,000 and approximately $2.1
million at December 31, 1994 and 1995, respectively, including amounts which
remain the obligation of Dish, Ltd.
F-24
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(9) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)
WARRANTS
The Warrants issued in connection with the Notes Offering were valued at
$26.1 million. The 1994 Notes and the Warrants became separately transferable
and exercisable effective December 1, 1994.
Each Warrant entitles the registered holder thereof, at such holder's
option, to purchase from ECC one share of Class A Common Stock at a purchase
price of $0.01 per share (the "Exercise Price"). The Exercise Price with respect
to all of the Warrants was paid in advance and, therefore, no additional amounts
are payable upon exercise of the Warrants.
Effective with the Merger (Note 1), or subsequently, all Warrants were
exercised and 2,808,000 Shares (as adjusted for the Exchange Ratio) of ECC's
Class A Common Stock were issued.
(10) STOCK OPTIONS
In April 1994, the Company adopted a stock incentive plan (the "Stock
Incentive Plan") to provide incentive to attract and retain officers, directors
and key employees. ECC assumed all outstanding options for the purchase of Dish,
Ltd. common stock effective with the Exchange and Merger and has reserved up to
10.0 million shares of its Class A Common Stock for granting awards under the
Stock Incentive Plan. Awards available under the Stock Incentive Plan include:
(i) common stock purchase options; (ii) stock appreciation rights; (iii)
restricted stock and restricted stock units; (iv) performance awards; (v)
dividend equivalents; and (vi) other stock-based awards. All options granted
through December 31, 1995 have included exercise prices not less than the fair
market value of the Shares at the date of grant and vest as determined by the
Company's Board of Directors, generally at the rate of 20% per year.
The following summarizes the activity relating to options for the years
ended December 31, 1994 and 1995:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1994 1995
--------- -------------------
(IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT FOR PER
SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C>
Incentive stock options --
Options outstanding at beginning of year........................ -- 745
Granted....................................................... 745 420
Exercised..................................................... -- (4)
Terminated.................................................... -- (44)
--------- -------------------
Options outstanding at end of year............................ 745 1,117
--------- -------------------
--------- -------------------
Options exercisable at end of year............................ -- 141
--------- -------------------
--------- -------------------
Price of granted options...................................... $9.33 $11.87 - $20.25
--------- -------------------
--------- -------------------
Price range of outstanding options............................ $9.33 $ 9.33 - $20.25
--------- -------------------
--------- -------------------
Price of terminated options................................... $-- $ 9.33 - $20.25
--------- -------------------
--------- -------------------
</TABLE>
In March 1994, the Company entered into an employment agreement with one of
its executive officers. The officer was granted an option, containing certain
conditions to vesting, to purchase 322,208 shares of Class A Common Stock of the
Company for $1.0 million at any time prior to
F-25
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(10) STOCK OPTIONS (CONTINUED)
December 31, 1999, subject to certain limitations. One-half of this option
became exercisable on December 31, 1994 and the remainder became exercisable on
December 31, 1995. The option was not granted pursuant to the Stock Incentive
Plan.
Effective March 1995, the Company granted an additional option to a key
employee to purchase 33,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, which vests 50% in
March 1996 and 50% in March 1997. The exercise price for each share of Class A
Common Stock is $11.87 per share. The option was not granted pursuant to the
Stock Incentive Plan.
(11) OTHER COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SATELLITE CONTRACTS
The Company has contracted with Martin Marietta Corporation ("Martin
Marietta") for the construction and delivery of high powered DBS satellites, and
for related services. EchoStar I was shipped to China on November 16, 1995 and
EchoStar II is expected to be delivered in the summer of 1996. Penalties of up
to $5.0 million are payable by Martin Marietta in the event of delays in the
delivery of EchoStar I by Martin Marietta. As of December 31, 1995, those
penalties totaled $3.2 million, which amount has been deducted from the
Company's deferred satellite payment obligation (Note 6).
The Company also has contracts with China Great Wall Industry Corporation
("Great Wall") for the launch of up to seven satellites, using LM-2E or LM-3C
launch vehicles, from a launch base in China. EchoStar I was launched on
December 28, 1995. The EchoStar I and EchoStar II launch contract (the "Great
Wall Launch Contract") calls for the launch of EchoStar II during July through
September 1996.
A significant delay in the delivery or launch of EchoStar II would adversely
affect the Company's operations. In June 1995, another subsidiary of ECC
contracted with Lockheed-Khrunichev-Energia-International, Inc. ("LKE") for the
launch of a satellite, using a Proton launch vehicle, from a launch base in the
Russian Federation.
The Company has filed applications with the Federal Communications
Commission ("FCC") for authorization to construct, launch and operate a domestic
fixed satellite service system ("FSS System") and a two satellite Ka-band
satellite system. No assurances can be given that the Company applications will
be approved by the FCC or that, if approved, the Company will successfully
develop the FSS System or the Ka-band satellite system. The Company believes
that establishment of the FSS System or the Ka-band system would enhance its
competitive position in the DTH industry. In the event the Company's FSS or
Ka-band satellite system applications are approved by the FCC, or if the Company
commits to a third launch with Great Wall, additional debt or equity financing
would be required. Financing alternatives related to the FSS and Ka-band
satellite systems are currently being pursued by the Company. No assurances can
be given that financing will be available, or that it will be available on terms
favorable to the Company.
F-26
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(11) OTHER COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
LEASES
Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases as of
December 31, 1995, are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Year ending December 31 --
1996............................................. $ 1,061
1997............................................. 686
1998............................................. 275
1999............................................. 147
2000............................................. 24
Thereafter....................................... 2
---------
Total minimum lease payments................... $ 2,195
---------
---------
</TABLE>
Total rental expense for operating leases was $1.2 million in 1993, $1.4
million in 1994 and $1.2 million in 1995.
PURCHASE COMMITMENTS
The Company has entered into agreements with various manufacturers to
purchase DBS satellite receivers and related components manufactured based on
Dish, Ltd. supplied specifications and necessary to receive DBS programming
proposed to be offered by the Company upon commencement of operations of
EchoStar's Dish Network-SM-. As of December 31, 1995 the remaining commitments
total approximately $502.9 million. At December 31, 1995, the total of all
outstanding purchase order commitments with domestic and foreign suppliers was
$515.8 million. All but $11.1 million of the purchases related to these
commitments are expected to be made during 1996 and the remainder is expected to
be made during 1997. The Company expects to finance these purchases from
available cash and sales of inventory, including the sale of DBS receiver
systems and related products.
OTHER RISKS AND CONTINGENCIES
Equipment sold by the Company includes, as an integral component,
descrambler modules purchased from an unrelated entity under a nonexclusive
right and license which expires in 2001.
The Company has agreed to indemnify its stockholders for any adjustments to
their individual income tax returns resulting from adjustments to taxable income
or tax credits for years prior to 1994 during which the Company elected to be
taxed as Subchapter S corporations. The indemnities cover additions to tax,
interest and penalties, as well as attorneys' and accountants' fees and
expenses, if any.
The Company is subject to other legal proceedings and claims which arise in
the ordinary course of its business. In the opinion of management, the amount of
ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not materially affect the
financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.
F-27
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(12) SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS
The 1994 Notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally
guaranteed by all subsidiaries of Dish, Ltd., except FlexTracker and certain DE
MINIMIS domestic and foreign subsidiaries. Summarized financial information for
Dish, Ltd. and the subsidiary guarantors is as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
-------------------------------------
1993 1994 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income Statement Data --
Revenue.............................................. $ 217,360 $ 187,044 $ 163,228
Expenses............................................. 199,398 174,164 171,646
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating income (loss).............................. 17,962 12,880 (8,418)
Other income (expense)............................... 543 (12,707) (9,911)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss) before income taxes................ 18,505 173 (18,329)
(Provision) benefit for income taxes................. 1,384 (433) 6,182
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income (loss)................................ $ 19,889 $ (260) $ (12,147)
----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- -----------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1994 1995
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Balance Sheet Data --
Current assets................................................. $ 80,914 $ 81,959
Property and equipment, net.................................... 151,211 333,160
Other noncurrent assets........................................ 239,560 143,866
------------ ------------
Total assets............................................... $ 471,685 $ 558,985
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
Current liabilities............................................ $ 28,094 $ 50,710
Long-term liabilities.......................................... 340,014 415,662
Stockholders' equity........................................... 103,577 92,613
------------ ------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity................. $ 471,685 $ 558,985
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
</TABLE>
Upon consummation of the merger with DirectSat, DirectSat became, by virtue
of the merger, a guarantor of the 1994 Notes on a full, unconditional and joint
and several basis, in addition to the guarantees of the previous subsidiaries.
F-28
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(13) OPERATIONS IN GEOGRAPHIC AREAS
The Company sells its products on a worldwide basis and has established
operations in Europe and the Pacific Rim. Information about the Company's
operations in different geographic areas as of December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995
and for the years then ended, were as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNITED OTHER
1993 STATES EUROPE INTERNATIONAL TOTAL
- -------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- --------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total revenue................................................. $ 175,453 $ 25,825 $ 19,663 $ 220,941
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
Export sales.................................................. $ 8,005
-----------
-----------
Operating income.............................................. $ 16,551 $ 96 $ 1,557 $ 18,204
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Other income (expense), net................................... 530
-----------
Net income before income taxes................................ $ 18,734
-----------
-----------
Identifiable assets........................................... $ 84,656 $ 7,272 $ 10,478 $ 102,406
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Corporate assets.............................................. 4,070
-----------
Total assets.................................................. $ 106,476
-----------
-----------
<CAPTION>
1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total revenue................................................. $ 137,233 $ 24,072 $ 29,678 $ 190,983
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
Export sales.................................................. $ 7,188
-----------
-----------
Operating income.............................................. $ 10,811 $ 1,244 $ 1,161 $ 13,216
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Other income (expense), net................................... (12,727)
-----------
Net income before income taxes................................ $ 489
-----------
-----------
Identifiable assets........................................... $ 77,172 $ 6,397 $ 2,359 $ 85,928
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Corporate assets.............................................. 386,564
-----------
Total assets.................................................. $ 472,492
-----------
-----------
<CAPTION>
1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total revenue................................................. $ 110,629 $ 31,351 $ 21,910 $ 163,890
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
----------- --------- ------------ -----------
Export sales.................................................. $ 6,317
-----------
-----------
Operating income (loss)....................................... $ (7,860) $ 146 $ (257) $ (7,971)
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Other income (expense), net................................... (9,260)
-----------
Net income before income taxes................................ $ (17,231)
-----------
-----------
Identifiable assets........................................... $ 63,136 $ 10,088 $ 3,788 $ 77,012
----------- --------- ------------
----------- --------- ------------
Corporate assets.............................................. 546,079
-----------
Total assets.................................................. $ 623,091
-----------
-----------
</TABLE>
F-29
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(14) VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
The Company's valuation and qualifying accounts as of December 31, 1993,
1994 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ADDITIONS
------------------------
BALANCE AT CHARGED TO CHARGED TO
BEGINNING OF COSTS AND OTHER BALANCE AT
YEAR EXPENSES ACCOUNTS DEDUCTIONS END OF YEAR
------------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Year ended December 31, 1993:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts.............. $ 92 $ 305 $ -- $ (51) $ 346
Loan loss reserve............................ 25 52 29 (56) 50
Reserve for inventory........................ 1,425 136 -- (158) 1,403
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs................... 1,600 326 -- (576) 1,350
Other reserves............................... 110 -- -- (17) 93
Year ended December 31, 1994:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts.............. $ 346 $ 8 $ -- $ (168) $ 186
Loan loss reserve............................ 50 75 -- (30) 95
Reserve for inventory........................ 1,403 329 -- (147) 1,585
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs................... 1,350 508 -- (458) 1,400
Other reserves............................... 93 -- -- -- 93
Year ended December 31, 1995:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts.............. $ 186 $ 1,160 $ -- $ (240) $ 1,106
Loan loss reserve............................ 95 19 -- (36) 78
Reserve for inventory........................ 1,585 1,511 -- (299) 2,797
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs................... 1,400 562 -- (949) 1,013
Other reserves............................... 93 -- -- (1) 92
</TABLE>
(15) QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
The Company's quarterly results of operations are summarized as follows (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED
---------------------------------------------------
MARCH 31, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, DECEMBER 31,
1994 1994 1994 1994
----------- --------- ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total revenue..................................... $ 46,993 $ 42,748 $ 48,958 $ 52,284
Operating income.................................. 4,359 2,573 3,481 2,803
Net income (loss)................................. 2,893 678 (1,619) (1,862)
</TABLE>
F-30
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(15) QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED
---------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MARCH 31, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, DECEMBER 31,
1995 1995 1995 1995
----------- --------- ------------- ------------
Total revenue............................................... $ 40,413 $ 39,252 $ 43,606 $ 40,619
Operating (loss) income..................................... (698) 768 341 (8,382)
Net loss.................................................... (2,240) (1,787) (360) (7,099)
</TABLE>
In the fourth quarter of 1995 the Company incurred operating and net losses
principally as a result of expenses incurred related to development of the
EchoStar DBS System and lower sales volumes at reduced gross margins. The
Company also increased reserves related to inventory and trade accounts
receivable in the fourth quarter of 1995.
(16) PARENT ONLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following financial information reflects the condensed parent only
balance sheets, statements of income and cash flows for ECC, reflecting the
assumed consummation of the Exchange and Merger retroactive to January 1, 1993.
The Exchange and Merger described in Note 1 was accounted for as a
reorganization of entities under common control.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
--------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1993 1994 1995
--------- --------- ----------
<CAPTION>
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND
PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income Statement Data--
Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries................................. $ 20,118 $ 90 $ (12,361)
Other income................................................................ -- -- 1,321
--------- --------- ----------
Net income (loss) before income taxes....................................... 20,118 90 (11,040)
Provision for income taxes.................................................. -- -- (446)
--------- --------- ----------
Net income (loss)......................................................... $ 20,118 $ 90 $ (11,486)
--------- --------- ----------
--------- --------- ----------
Loss Attributable to Common Shares............................................ $ (848) $ (12,691)
--------- ----------
--------- ----------
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding.................................... 32,442 35,562
--------- ----------
--------- ----------
Loss Per Common and Common Equivalent Share................................... $ (0.03) $ (0.36)
--------- ----------
--------- ----------
Pro Forma (Unaudited) Net Income and Earnings
Per Common Share (Note 7)
Historical net income before income taxes................................. $ 20,118
Pro forma income tax effects.............................................. (7,846)
---------
Pro forma net income...................................................... $ 12,272
---------
---------
Pro forma common shares outstanding....................................... 32,221
---------
---------
Pro forma earnings per common share....................................... $ 0.38
---------
---------
</TABLE>
F-31
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(16) PARENT ONLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
1994 1995
----------- -----------
<CAPTION>
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Balance Sheet Data--
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents............................................................. $ -- $ 7,802
Marketable investment securities...................................................... -- 15,460
Advances to affiliates................................................................ -- 19,545
Other current assets.................................................................. -- 191
----------- -----------
Total current assets................................................................ -- 42,998
----------- -----------
Investments in subsidiaries:
Restricted (Note 12).................................................................. 103,577 92,613
Unrestricted.......................................................................... 231 280
----------- -----------
103,808 92,893
Other noncurrent assets................................................................. -- 21,111
----------- -----------
Total assets........................................................................ $ 103,808 $ 157,002
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
Current liabilities..................................................................... $ -- $ 316
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred Stock, 20,000,000 shares authorized, 1,616,681 shares of Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock issued and outstanding, including accrued dividends of $938,000 and
$2,143,000, respectively............................................................. 15,990 17,195
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 3,739,400 and
10,535,003 shares issued and outstanding, respectively............................... 38 105
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 29,804,401,
shares issued and outstanding........................................................ 298 298
Class C Common Stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, none
outstanding.......................................................................... -- --
Common Stock Purchase Warrants........................................................ 26,133 714
Additional paid-in capital............................................................ 62,197 151,674
Unrealized holding gain on available-for-sale securities, net......................... -- 239
Retained earnings (deficit)........................................................... (848) (13,539)
----------- -----------
Total stockholders' equity.......................................................... 103,808 156,686
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.......................................... $ 103,808 $ 157,002
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>
F-32
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(16) PARENT ONLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------
1993 1994 1995
---------- --------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash Flows Data--
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss).............................................................. $ 20,118 $ 90 $ (11,486)
Adjustments--
Equity in (earnings) losses of subsidiaries.................................. (20,118) (90) 12,361
Changes in--
Other current assets....................................................... -- -- (191)
Current liabilities........................................................ -- -- 316
---------- --- ----------
Net cash flows from operating activities................................. -- -- 1,000
---------- --- ----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Advances to affiliates....................................................... -- -- (19,545)
Purchases of marketable investment securities, net........................... -- -- (15,475)
Increase in noncurrent assets................................................ -- -- (21,111)
---------- --- ----------
Net cash flows from investing activities................................... -- -- (56,131)
---------- --- ----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net proceeds from issuance of Class A Common Stock........................... -- -- 62,933
---------- --- ----------
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS........................................ -- -- 7,802
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period................................... -- -- --
---------- --- ----------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period......................................... $ -- $ -- $ 7,802
---------- --- ----------
---------- --- ----------
</TABLE>
F-33
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO COMBINED AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
(17) SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In March 1996, ECC announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, EchoStar
Satellite Broadcasting Corporation ("ESB"), is considering a private offering
(the "Offering") pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 of
Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 (the "Senior Secured Notes") expected to
provide net proceeds to ESB of $250.0 million. ESB was formed on January 24,
1996 for the purpose of the Offering. ECC will contribute all of the outstanding
capital stock of its wholly owned subsidiary, Dish, Ltd., to ESB.
EchoStar DBS Corporation ("EDC") was formed under Colorado law in January
1996 for purposes of participating in a Federal Communications Commission
auction ("FCC Auction") held on January 24 through January 26, 1996. EDC was
required to post a $10.0 million deposit to participate in the FCC Auction for
28 DBS frequencies at 110 DEG. WL and post a $2.0 million deposit to participate
in the FCC Auction for 24 DBS frequencies at 148 DEG. WL. EDC is a wholly owned
subsidiary of ECC.
On January 26, 1996, EDC submitted the winning bid of $52.3 million dollars
for 24 DBS frequencies at 148 DEG. WL. Previous deposits made with the FCC were
applied to satisfy the 20% down payment. The balance of the bid price must be
remitted to the FCC upon grant of the construction permit, which could occur as
early as April 1996.
Funds necessary to pay the balance of the purchase price are expected to be
provided by ECC from the proceeds of the Senior Secured Notes.
F-34
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
Washington, D.C.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Direct Broadcasting
Satellite Corporation, a development stage company, as of March 31, 1995, and
December 31, 1995, and the related statements of income and cash flows for each
of the two years ended March 31, 1995 and the nine months ended December 31,
1995 and the statements of stockholders' equity for each of the five years ended
March 31, 1995 and the nine months ended December 31, 1995. See Note 2. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the financial position of Direct Broadcasting
Satellite Corporation, as of March 31, 1995 and December 31, 1995, and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for the two years in the period
ended March 31, 1995 and the nine months ended December 31, 1995, in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the
Corporation will continue as a going concern. The Corporation's recurring
operating losses raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a
going concern at December 31, 1995. Management's plans in regard to these
matters are described in Note 1 of the notes to financial statements. The
financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the
outcome of this uncertainty.
REGARDIE, BROOKS & LEWIS, CHARTERED
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
Bethesda, Maryland,
January 23, 1996.
F-35
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1995 1995
---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash...................................................... $ 119,892 $ 72,950
Money Market Funds --
Crestfunds, Inc. -- Cash Reserves Fund.................. 2,131,988 285,978
Pacific Horizon Prime Fund.............................. -- 7,081
---------- ------------
Total current assets................................ 2,251,880 366,009
---------- ------------
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, AT COST:
Satellite development in process (Note 4)................. 372,625 17,882,707
Computer equipment........................................ 5,073 5,073
Less:
Accumulated depreciation................................ (1,725) (2,730)
---------- ------------
Cost less accumulated depreciation...................... 375,973 17,885,050
---------- ------------
OTHER ASSETS:
FCC license (Note 3)...................................... 687,136 865,571
Unamortized loan costs.................................... -- 67,058
Deferred tax benefit (Note 7)............................. -- --
Security deposits......................................... 2,575 2,575
---------- ------------
Total other assets...................................... 689,711 935,204
---------- ------------
Total assets.......................................... $3,317,564 $ 19,186,263
---------- ------------
---------- ------------
</TABLE>
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable.......................................... $ 79,589 $ 140,958
Unsecured notes payable (Note 6A)......................... -- 500,000
Accrued interest.......................................... -- 237,226
Unsecured note payable (Note 6B) (in arrears)............. 350,000 325,000
Accrued interest in arrears (Note 6)...................... 340,537 341,074
Due to shareholder........................................ 7,380 3,024
---------- ------------
Total current liabilities............................... 777,506 1,547,282
---------- ------------
LONG-TERM DEBT:
Secured note payable (Note 5)............................. -- 16,000,000
Unsecured notes payable (Note 6A)......................... 500,000 --
Accrued interest (Notes 5 & 6)............................ 199,680 10,082
---------- ------------
Total long-term debt.................................... 699,680 16,010,082
---------- ------------
Total liabilities..................................... 1,477,186 17,557,364
---------- ------------
COMMITMENTS (Note 4)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common stock, $.01 par value, 3,000,000 shares authorized;
shares issued and outstanding, 1,618,138 and 1,620,138,
respectively............................................. 16,181 16,201
Additional paid in capital................................ 5,833,066 5,849,046
Accumulated deficit (Note 1).............................. (2,755,808) (2,755,808)
Accumulated deficit during development stage.............. (1,253,061) (1,480,540)
---------- ------------
Total stockholders' equity.............................. 1,840,378 1,628,899
---------- ------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity................ $3,317,564 $ 19,186,263
---------- ------------
---------- ------------
</TABLE>
See the accompanying report of independent public accountants.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-36
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED MARCH 31
---------------------
1994 1995
--------- ---------- NINE MONTHS ENDED APRIL 1, 1990
DECEMBER 31, 1995 (INCEPTION) TO
----------------- DECEMBER 31, 1995
(NOTE 2) -----------------
(NOTE 1)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUE:
Gain on settlement of indebtedness........................ $ -- $ -- $ 31,656 $ 31,656
Investment income......................................... -- 31,988 56,071 88,059
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
Total revenue............................................... -- 31,988 87,727 119,715
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Interest expense.......................................... 131,103 85,031 59,739 612,256
Legal fees................................................ 12,769 151,972 23,251 385,892
Consulting fees........................................... 36,370 148,303 167,654 417,327
Professional services..................................... 1,800 16,210 6,566 34,021
Rent...................................................... 2,206 19,369 24,975 46,550
Taxes and licenses........................................ 3,722 520 455 7,034
Other administrative expenses............................. 13,440 32,765 31,561 94,445
Depreciation.............................................. 154 1,571 1,005 2,730
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
Total operating expenses................................ 201,564 455,741 315,206 1,600,255
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
NET LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES................................ (201,564) (423,753) (227,479) (1,480,540)
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES (Note 7)......................... -- -- -- --
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
NET LOSS.................................................... $(201,564) $ (423,753) $ (227,479) $(1,480,540)
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING.................. 901,555 1,272,701 1,618,583 1,024,845
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
LOSS PER COMMON SHARE....................................... $ (0.23) $ (0.33) $ (0.14) $ (1.44)
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
--------- ---------- ----------------- -----------------
</TABLE>
See the accompanying report of independent public accountants.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-37
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE FIVE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1995
AND THE NINE MONTH PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ACCUMULATED
DEFICIT
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL DURING TOTAL
--------------------- PAID IN ACCUMULATED DEVELOPMENT STOCKHOLDERS'
SHARES PAR VALUE CAPITAL DEFICIT STAGE EQUITY
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(NOTE 1)
Balance at March 31, 1990................... 709,888 $ 7,099 $ 1,127,742 $(2,755,808) $ -- $(1,620,967)
Issuance of common stock -- October 15,
1990 at $0.01 per share.................. 150,000 1,500 (1,500) -- -- --
Net loss for the period April 1, 1990
through March 31, 1991................... -- -- -- -- (384,427) (384,427)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance at March 31, 1991................... 859,888 8,599 1,126,242 (2,755,808) (384,427) (2,005,394)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Net loss for the period April 1, 1991
through March 31, 1992................... -- -- -- -- (125,826) (125,826)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance at March 31, 1992................... 859,888 8,599 1,126,242 (2,755,808) (510,253) (2,131,220)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Net loss for the period April 1, 1992
through March 31, 1993................... -- -- -- -- (117,491) (117,491)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance at March 31, 1993................... 859,888 8,599 1,126,242 (2,755,808) (627,744) (2,248,711)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Issuance of common stock -- December 21,
1993 at $2.00 per share.................. 125,000 1,250 248,750 -- -- 250,000
Net loss for the period April 1, 1993
through March 31, 1994................... -- -- -- -- (201,564) (201,564)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance at March 31, 1994................... 984,888 9,849 1,374,992 (2,755,808) (829,308) (2,200,275)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Issuance of common stock --
April 12, 1994 at $3.00 per share......... 25,000 250 74,750 -- -- 75,000
June 13, 1994 at $4.00 per share............ 18,750 187 74,813 -- -- 75,000
August 5, 1994 at $4.00 per share......... 6,250 63 24,937 -- -- 25,000
November 15, 1994 at $7.14 per share,
net...................................... 583,250 5,832 4,283,574 -- -- 4,289,406
Net loss for the period April 1, 1994
through March 31, 1995................... -- -- -- -- (423,753) (423,753)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ -------------
Balance at March 31, 1995................... 1,618,138 16,181 5,833,066 (2,755,808) (1,253,061) 1,840,378
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Issuance of Common Stock -- November 16,
1995 at $8.00 per share.................. 2,000 20 15,980 -- -- 16,000
Net loss for the period April 1, 1995
through December 31, 1995.................. -- -- -- -- (227,479) (227,479)
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance at December 31, 1995................ 1,620,138 $ 16,201 $ 5,849,046 $(2,755,808) $(1,480,540) $1,628,899
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
--------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------- ------------
</TABLE>
See the accompanying report of independent public accountants.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-38
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1994 AND 1995,
AND THE NINE MONTH PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
APRIL 1, 1990
NINE MONTHS (INCEPTION)
ENDED TO
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1995 1995
----------------------- ------------- -------------
1994 1995 (NOTE 2) (NOTE 1)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss......................................... $ (201,564) $ (423,753) $ (227,479) $ (1,480,540)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
applied to operating activities:
Depreciation................................... 154 1,571 1,005 2,730
Gain on settlement of indebtedness............. -- -- (31,656) (31,656)
Noncash consulting fees........................ -- -- 16,000 16,000
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable........ (51,331) 5,416 3,268 (49,074)
Increase in accrued interest payable........... 131,103 64,311 59,739 589,297
Increase (decrease) due to shareholders........ 1,667 4,378 (4,356) (5,230)
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
Net cash applied to operating activities..... (119,971) (348,077) (183,479) (958,473)
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of furniture and equipment......... (3,089) (1,984) -- (5,073)
Increase in satellite development costs........ (63,500) (41,750) (17,517,375) (17,872,625)
Increase in FCC license........................ (106,097) (371,630) (170,017) (665,244)
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities...... (172,686) (415,364) (17,687,392) (18,542,942)
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Increase in secured notes payable.............. -- -- 16,000,000 16,000,000
Issuance of common stock....................... 250,000 3,134,999 -- 3,384,999
Increase notes payable......................... 76,250 -- -- 652,500
Increase in contract payable................... -- -- -- 62,500
Payment of contract payable.................... -- -- -- (62,500)
Payment of note payable........................ -- (152,500) (15,000) (167,500)
Increase in security deposit................... (1,463) (1,112) -- (2,575)
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
Net cash provided by financing activities.. 324,787 2,981,387 15,985,000 19,867,424
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH.................. 32,130 2,217,946 (1,885,871) 366,009
CASH AT BEGINNING OF YEAR........................ 1,804 33,934 2,251,880 --
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
CASH AT END OF YEAR.............................. $ 33,934 $ 2,251,880 $ 366,009 $ 366,009
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for interest..... $ -- $ 20,719 $ -- $ 22,958
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
---------- ----------- ------------- -------------
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH AND FINANCING
ACTIVITIES:
Additional common stock was issued upon the
conversion of notes payable in the amount
of $700,000, plus related accrued interest
totaling.................................. $ -- $ 1,329,406 $ -- $ 1,329,406
Additional common stock was issued in
exchange for consulting services.......... -- -- 16,000 16,000
</TABLE>
Disclosure of accounting policy:
For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Company considers money
market funds to be cash equivalents.
See the accompanying report of independent public accountants.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-39
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MARCH 31, 1995 AND DECEMBER 31, 1995
(1) ORGANIZATION
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation (the "Company" or "DBSC"), a
development stage company, was incorporated January 23, 1981 in the state of
Delaware. It is constructing satellites, and plans to operate a direct-to-home,
multi-channel satellite broadcast television service. Funding of the Company's
operations has been obtained through the private placement of common stock and
issuance of convertible debt, demand notes and accounts payable.
On December 21, 1995, the Company and EchoStar Communications Corporation
("EchoStar"), a 39.8% shareholder, agreed to a merger, subject to receipt of
requisite government approval. EchoStar holds direct broadcasting satellite
authorizations for 21 channels at 119the Company and EchoStar agreed to merge
DBSC into a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar, and (2) the Company's
shareholders will be entitled to receive at their option $7.99 in cash or .67417
EchoStar shares for each of the Company's 975,148 shares not already owned by
EchoStar.
EchoStar also agreed, at its sole discretion, to loan the Company up to
$150,000,000 for expenses associated with the construction, launch, and
insurance of the Company's spacecraft. On December 29, 1995, the Company drew
down $16 million under its loan purchase agreement with EchoStar and paid
Lockheed Martin Corporation $16 million on the same day.
Without the EchoStar or other financing, the Company's ability to meet its
existing obligations and proceed with the construction of the satellite is
doubtful. In such case, the ultimate realization of the capitalized FCC license
application costs, as well as the deferred satellite development costs, are
doubtful, and the continuance of the Company as an operating entity would be
uncertain.
The Company's development activities were dormant for a period of years
ended March 31, 1990. During the year ended March 31, 1991, the Company began
development of two new satellites. In accordance with SFAS No. 7, development
stage activities for presentation purposes on the statements of income and
statements of stockholders' equity are for the period April 1, 1990 to December
31, 1995. Prior development stage activity losses amounting to $2,755,808 are
reflected in stockholders' equity as accumulated deficit.
(2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Effective April 1, 1995, the Company changed its fiscal year to December 31
from March 31. All balances for the nine months ended December 31, 1995 include
activity from April 1, 1995 to December 31, 1995.
Loan costs will be amortized over the 8-year life of the $16 million secured
note, effective January 1, 1996.
Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial statements.
Those estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the
reported revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.
(3) FCC LICENSE
The Company's application for authority to construct and operate a direct
broadcast satellite system was approved by the Federal Communications Commission
("FCC") and a conditional construction permit for two spacecraft was released on
August 15, 1989. On November 10, 1993, the FCC found that the Company had
complied with the necessary due diligence requirements and assigned specific
orbit/spectrum resources to the Company. On December 8, 1995, the FCC staff
granted the
F-40
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
(3) FCC LICENSE (CONTINUED)
Company an extension of time through November 1998, to construct and launch two
spacecrafts. Pursuant to a FCC request, on January 31, 1994 the Company
submitted certain technical data to the FCC and asked for launch authority.
On June 30, 1995, the Company notified the FCC that it had signed a
spacecraft contract modification and sought approval thereof. The FCC has not
yet acted on either request. Certain costs incurred in connection with filing
the FCC license application and maintaining the authority have been capitalized.
Amortization periods for these costs will be determined at the time the services
related to the applicable FCC license commences, or capitalized costs will be
written off at the time efforts to provide services are abandoned. FCC licenses
are expected to have a useful life of approximately 12 years.
(4) SATELLITE DEVELOPMENT COSTS
The Company has entered into a contract for the construction of two
satellites. The contract, as amended May 31, 1995, provides for periodic,
non-refundable payments over a period extending to October 30, 2003, as well as
cancellation penalties if the contract is terminated before the satellites are
launched. As of December 31, 1995, payments made under the terms of the contract
totaled $17,838,500. The contract calls for additional payments of $30,000,000
in the year ending December 31, 1996. The total commitment under the contract is
in excess of $160 million.
At December 31, 1995, total satellite development costs amounted to
$17,882,707, including capitalized interest of $10,082.
During construction and prior to launch, the Company has granted to the
Contractor a full security interest in all hardware, software and work in
process (collectively "Security") related to the two satellites. In the event of
certain defaults by the Company, the Contractor shall immediately assume
ownership of the entire Security.
(5) SECURED NOTE PAYABLE
On December 29, 1995, the Company borrowed $16,000,000, per the terms of a
note purchase agreement and a security agreement between EchoStar and the
Company. The promissory note is secured by an assignment, pledge and grant of
security interest in all the estate, right, title, and interest of the Company,
whether now owned or hereafter acquired, in, to and under (1) the Satellites and
DBS Rights, (2) all agreements, contracts and documents related to the
Satellites, DBS Rights, and business of the Company, (3) all income and revenues
from all business operations, and (4) all tangible and/or intangible property of
the Company, including the Satellites. However, the security in the Satellites
is subordinate to the security interest in and to the Satellites held by Martin
Marietta.
Interest accrues at Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate plus 3 percent as of the
date of the loan. Principal and interest is payable in equal installments
beginning on December 29, 1997, and ending on December 29, 2003. The December
29, 1997 installment related to the $16,000,000 loan will be approximately
$3,713,300, including interest at 11.5%.
(6) UNSECURED NOTES PAYABLE
A. UNSECURED NOTE PAYABLE
Note payable in the amount of $500,000 is payable 90 days after the
successful launch and check-out of the Company's first Direct Broadcast
Satellite-Broadcast Satellite System, or on demand in certain other limited
circumstances. Interest is payable at Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate plus 1%
per annum or 4% after maturity, or in the event of default. At December 31,
1995, the note payable and
F-41
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
(6) UNSECURED NOTES PAYABLE (CONTINUED)
the related accrued interest were payable on demand. At March 31, 1995, both the
principal and interest were classified as long-term debt since the launching of
the satellite was not within one year of the balance sheet date.
B. CONVERTIBLE NOTES PAYABLE
Convertible notes payable at December 31, 1995 amounted to $325,000, and at
March 31, 1995 amounted to $350,000. At December 31, 1995, notes totalling
$100,000 accrue interest at 75% of Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate, and notes
totalling $225,000 accrue interest at 100% of the prime rate.
Until November 15, 1994, notes totalling $475,000 accrue interest at 75% of
Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate, and notes totalling $500,000 accrue interest at
100% of the prime rate. The notes were issued on various dates from October 1,
1982 to March 6, 1984 and were due 24 months from date of issue. Interest
payments have not been made over the years. However, interest has been accrued
and is reflected in the accompanying financial statements. Both the principal
and interest are classified as currently payable since the notes are in arrears.
The notes provide that until they are paid in full, a note holder at his
option may convert principal into shares of the authorized common stock of the
Company as follows: $100,000 of principal at $6.67 per share, and $225,000 of
principal at $8.33 per share. On November 15, 1994, certain notes were converted
to common stock.
(7) INCOME TAXES
Effective April 1, 1992, the Company adopted SFAS No. 109, "Accounting for
Income Taxes", which requires an asset and liability approach to financial
accounting and reporting for income taxes. The difference between the financial
statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities are computed for those
differences that have future tax consequences using the currently enacted tax
laws and rates that apply to the periods in which they are expected to affect
taxable income. Valuation allowances are established, if necessary, to reduce
the deferred tax asset to the amount that will more likely than not be realized.
Income tax expense is the current tax payable or refundable for the period, plus
or minus the net change in the deferred tax assets and liabilities.
The adoption of SFAS No. 109 did not have an effect on the Company's
financial statements because the deferred income tax benefit has been offset by
a valuation allowance of equal amount. The valuation allowance was established
to reduce the deferred tax benefit to the amount that will more likely than not
be realized. This reduction is necessary due to the uncertainty of the Company's
ability to utilize all of the future tax deduction resulting from net operating
losses.
The gross deferred income tax benefit was approximately $849,382 at December
31, 1995, and $781,002 at March 31, 1995.
The deferred income tax benefit results primarily from net operating losses
for tax purposes. The net operating loss carryover to future years is $2,202,393
at December 31, 1995, none of which will expire until the year 1999. In
addition, the Company has not claimed as a tax deduction accrued interest
payable of $578,300. For income tax purposes, the Company reports its net income
(loss) on the cash basis.
(8) CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
In 1982, the Company entered into agreements with two French corporations
pursuant to which each corporation, in exchange for the Company's commitment to
procure satellite hardware, paid to a satellite launch provider, for the benefit
of the Company, a launch reservation fee of $100,000. The first agreement, as
amended, specified that payment of the $100,000 plus interest of 13% per annum
F-42
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
(8) CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
was due on December 31, 1983. The second agreement provided that the Company was
obligated to issue 6,000 (as adjusted) shares of common stock no later than two
years from the date of the agreement.
No equipment was procured from either corporation, no shares of common stock
have been issued nor has the Company returned the $100,000 payment to either
corporation. The Company has not determined whether either obligation is
currently enforceable under French law. The Company is unaware of any request
for payment or for the issuance of the Company's shares from August 3, 1987 to
date.
(9) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
In November 1994, the Company resolved a suit brought by EchoStar against
the Company regarding enforceability of certain notes and accounts payable of
the Company. Pursuant to the settlement, the payables were exchanged for shares
of the Company's common stock and EchoStar purchased additional shares of the
Company for $2,960,000 so that, together with the shares of DBSC previously
acquired, EchoStar presently owns approximately 40% of the outstanding common
stock of DBSC. As part of this settlement the Company issued an option to sell
at a fixed price of $2,000,000 the greater of 11.3% of its issued and
outstanding common stock at the date of exercise, or 333,333 shares of common
stock, and an Optional Merger Election, whereby the Company or the Purchaser's
wholly owned subsidiary can elect to merge with each other provided certain
conditions precedent have been met. On December 21, 1995, the Company and
EchoStar entered into a Merger Agreement. See Note 1.
Legal fees expense has been charged $125,000 for costs incurred in
connection with the above transaction.
(10) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Consulting fees are paid to certain shareholders and officers.
F-43
<PAGE>
SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(UNAUDITED)
AS OF AND FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
F-44
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS)
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------ ------------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 21,754 $ 78,425
Marketable investment securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,670 44,991
Trade accounts receivable, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,179 19,568
Inventories, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38,769 48,386
Income tax receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,554 7,446
Deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,779 1,789
Other current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13,037 25,168
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103,742 225,773
------------ ------------
RESTRICTED CASH AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
1994 Notes escrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73,291 22,928
1996 Notes escrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 160,389
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26,400 36,200
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354,000 426,781
OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65,658 124,694
------------ ------------
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $623,091 $996,765
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Trade accounts payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19,063 $ 22,235
Deferred programming revenue - DISH Network(SM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 13,188
Deferred programming revenue - C-band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,563 5,037
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21,335 13,308
Notes payable and current portion of
long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,782 4,782
Total current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50,743 58,550
------------ ------------
LONG-TERM DEFERRED PROGRAMMING REVENUE - DISH Network(SM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 4,163
1994 NOTES, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 382,218 408,449
1996 NOTES, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 361,742
LONG-TERM MORTGAGE DEBT AND NOTE PAYABLE, excluding current portion. . . . . . . . . . 33,444 36,337
------------ ------------
Total liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 466,405 869,241
------------ ------------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 6)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred Stock, 20,000,000 shares authorized, 1,616,681 shares of
Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock issued and outstanding,
including accrued dividends of $2,143,000 and $2,745,000, respectively . . . . . 17,195 17,797
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized,
10,535,003 and 10,750,667 shares issued and outstanding, respectively. . . . . . 105 108
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized,. . . . . . . .
29,804,401 shares issued and outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298 298
Common Stock Purchase Warrants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 714 20
Class C Common Stock, 100,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding . . . . . . . -- --
Additional paid-in capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151,674 153,095
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes . 239 122
Retained earnings (deficit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (13,539) (43,916)
------------ ------------
Total stockholders' equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156,686 127,524
------------ ------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $623,091 $996,765
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these balance sheets.
F-45
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
------------------------ --------------------------
1995 1996 1995 1996
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUE:
DTH products and technical services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 34,865 $ 60,458 $ 71,142 $ 97,199
Programming revenue - DISH Network(SM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 5,582 -- 6,046
Programming revenue - C-band. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,817 3,194 7,688 6,643
Loan origination and participation income . . . . . . . . . . . . . 570 4,290 835 5,103
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total revenue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39,252 73,524 79,665 114,991
--------- --------- --------- ---------
EXPENSES:
DTH products and technical services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27,371 57,528 56,816 90,278
Programming - DISH Network(SM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 1,664 -- 1,769
Programming - C-band. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,392 2,880 6,824 6,058
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,315 19,083 15,186 29,816
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 406 6,426 769 9,756
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38,484 87,581 79,595 137,677
--------- --------- --------- ---------
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 768 (14,057) 70 (22,686)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,005 6,706 6,643 9,383
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized. . . . . . . . . . . . (6,327) (27,141) (12,890) (33,184)
Other, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (68) (117) (40) (134)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Total other income (expense) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (3,390) (20,552) (6,287) (23,935)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
NET LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (2,622) (34,609) (6,217) (46,621)
BENEFIT FOR INCOME TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 835 12,055 2,190 16,846
--------- --------- --------- ---------
NET LOSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (1,787) $(22,554) $ (4,027) $(29,775)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON SHARES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (2,088) $(22,855) $ (4,629) $(30,377)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,988 40,432 33,655 40,404
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
LOSS PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (.06) $ (.57) $ (.14) $ (.75)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-46
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996
(IN THOUSANDS)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETAINED
EARNINGS
(DEFICIT)
SHARES OF COMMON AND
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL UNREALIZED TOTAL
STOCK PREFERRED COMMON PURCHASE PAID-IN HOLDING STOCKHOLDERS'
OUTSTANDING STOCK STOCK WARRANTS CAPITAL GAIN EQUITY
----------- --------- ------ -------- ---------- ---------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCES, at December 31, 1995 . . . . . . 40,339 $17,195 $403 $ 714 $151,674 $(13,300) $156,686
Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock
dividends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 602 (602) --
Issuance of Class A Common Stock . . . . 142 2 720 722
Common Stock Purchase Warrants
exercised. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 1 (694) 693 --
Employee Incentives Funded by
Issuance of Class A Common Stock . . . 8 8
Unrealized holding gain on available-
for-sale securities, net . . . . . . . (117) (117)
Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (29,775) (29,775)
----------- --------- ------ -------- --------- ---------- ------------
BALANCES, at June 30, 1996 . . . . . . . . 40,555 $17,797 $406 $ 20 $153,095 $(43,794) $127,524
----------- --------- ------ -------- --------- ---------- ------------
----------- --------- ------ -------- --------- ---------- ------------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of this statement.
F-47
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(UNAUDITED)
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30,
------------------------
1995 1996
-------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss ..................................... $(4,027) $(29,775)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
flows from operating activities--
Depreciation and amortization............... 769 9,756
Provision for doubtful accounts............. -- 66
Benefit for deferred taxes.................. (4,624) (11,534)
Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs
on 1994 and 1996 Notes..................... 630 1,038
Amortization of discount on 1994 and 1996
Notes, net of amounts capitalized.......... 12,030 23,492
Equity in (earnings) losses of joint venture (23) 86
Change in reserve for excess and obsolete
inventory ................................. 383 634
Change in long-term deferred programming
revenue.................................... -- 4,163
Other, net ................................. (417) (752)
Changes in working capital items --
Trade accounts receivable ................. 1,405 (10,455)
Inventories................................ (8,799) (10,251)
Income tax receivable...................... -- (3,892)
Other current assets....................... 47 (12,131)
Liability under cash management program.... (57) --
Trade accounts payable..................... (3,879) 3,172
Deferred programming revenue............... 218 12,662
Accrued expenses and other current
liabilities............................... 615 6,973
-------- ---------
Net cash flows from operating
activities......................... (5,729) (16,748)
-------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of marketable investment securities. (80,051) (44,782)
Sales of marketable investment securities..... 40,679 15,479
Purchases of restricted marketable securities. (15,000) (15,500)
Funds released from restricted cash and
marketable securities - other................ -- 5,700
Purchases of property and equipment........... (1,170) (7,537)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment.. 27 --
Offering proceeds and investment earnings
placed in escrow............................. (4,967) (181,778)
Refund of launch payment placed in escrow..... -- (4,500)
Funds released from escrow accounts........... 29,760 76,045
Investment in SSET............................ (284) --
Investment in convertible subordinated
debentures from DBSI......................... -- (3,000)
Long-term notes receivable from DBSC.......... -- (12,500)
Expenditures for satellite systems under
construction................................. (30,310) (73,932)
Subscriber acquisition costs.................. -- (3,307)
Deposit on FCC authorization.................. -- (10,459)
Expenditures for FCC authorizations........... -- (3,193)
-------- ---------
Net cash flows from investing
activities......................... (61,316) (263,264)
-------- ---------
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-48
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30,
------------------------
1995 1996
--------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness and note payable. . . . . . $ (91) $ (1,082)
Stock options exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 722
Net proceeds from issuance of Class A Common Stock. . . . . . . 62,933 --
Net proceeds from issuance of 1996 Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . -- 337,043
--------- ----------
Net cash flows from financing activities. . . . . . . . . 62,842 336,683
--------- ----------
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS . . . . . . (4,203) 56,671
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . 17,506 21,754
--------- ----------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 13,303 $ 78,425
--------- ----------
--------- ----------
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized. . . . . . . $ 233 $ 7,953
Cash paid for income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 658 --
Cumulative Series A Preferred Stock dividends . . . . . . . . . 602 602
Satellite launch payment for EchoStar II
applied to EchoStar I launch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 15,000
Increase in note payable for deferred
satellite construction payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 3,167
Employee incentives funded by issuance
of Class A Common Stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 8
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.
F-49
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND JUNE 30, 1996
(1) ORGANIZATION AND PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
EchoStar Communications Corporation and subsidiaries ("EchoStar")
successfully launched its first direct broadcast satellite ("DBS"), EchoStar I,
in December 1995 and, on March 4, 1996, began broadcasting its DBS programming
(the "DISH NetworkSM") to the entire continental United States. As of August 1,
1996, EchoStar had over 100,000 subscribers to DISH NetworkSM programming. The
DISH NetworkSM currently includes over 100 channels of high quality digital
video and audio programming and will expand to approximately 200 digital video
and audio channels following the successful launch of a second DBS satellite,
DirectSat I ("EchoStar II"), currently scheduled in September 1996.
In addition to its DBS business, EchoStar is engaged in the design,
manufacture, distribution and installation of satellite direct to home ("DTH")
products, domestic distribution of DTH programming and consumer financing of
EchoStar's domestic DTH products and services.
In January 1996, EchoStar formed a wholly owned subsidiary, EchoStar
Satellite Broadcasting Corporation ("ESB"), for the purpose of completing a
private offering (the "1996 Notes Offering"), pursuant to Rule 144A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), of 13 1/8% Senior
Secured Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1996 Notes"), resulting in net proceeds of
approximately $337.0 million. The 1996 Notes Offering was consummated in March
1996. Proceeds from the 1996 Notes Offering will be used for: (i) continued
development, marketing and distribution of the DISH NetworkSM; (ii) EchoStar's
purchase of DBS frequencies at 148DEG. WL; (iii) partial funding of the
construction, launch and insurance of DBSC I ("EchoStar III") and EchoStar IV;
(iv) additional launch costs of EchoStar II; and (v) other general corporate
purposes. The additional frequencies were acquired by EchoStar at a public
auction held by the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") in January 1996
(the "FCC Auction"). In connection with the 1996 Notes Offering, EchoStar
contributed all of the outstanding capital stock of its wholly owned subsidiary,
Dish, Ltd., to ESB. This transaction has been accounted for as a reorganization
of entities under common control whereby Dish, Ltd. has been treated as the
predecessor to ESB. ESB is subject to all, and EchoStar is subject to certain
of, the terms and conditions of the Indenture related to the 1996 Notes (the
"1996 Notes Indenture"). On April 24, 1996, ESB filed a Registration Statement
on Form S-1 under the Securities Act to exchange the 1996 Notes for publicly
registered notes. The Registration Statement was declared effective by the
Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 1996. As of August 1, 1996, all
of the outstanding privately placed notes had been exchanged for the new
publicly registered notes. Unless otherwise stated herein, or the context
otherwise requires, references herein to the 1996 Notes shall include the
original privately placed notes and the publicly registered notes that were
exchanged for the privately placed notes.
In June 1995, EchoStar completed an offering of its Class A Common Stock,
resulting in net proceeds of approximately $63.0 million (the "Equity
Offering"). Dish, Ltd. owns the majority of EchoStar's operating subsidiaries.
In June 1994, Dish, Ltd. completed an offering of 12 7/8% Senior Secured
Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1994 Notes") and Warrants (collectively, the "1994
Notes Offering"), resulting in net proceeds of approximately $323.3 million. As
of June 30, 1996, substantially all of the Warrants issued in connection with
the 1994 Notes Offering had been exercised. Dish, Ltd. and most of its
subsidiaries are subject to the terms and conditions of the Indenture related to
the 1994 Notes (the "1994 Notes Indenture").
Unless otherwise stated herein, or the context otherwise requires,
references herein to EchoStar shall include EchoStar and all of its direct and
indirect wholly owned subsidiaries.
The accompanying unaudited condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article
10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information
and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete
financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting
of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have
been included.
F-50
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
Operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended
December 31, 1996. For further information, refer to the Combined and
Consolidated Financial Statements and footnotes thereto included in EchoStar
Communications Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1995. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform
with the current year presentation.
SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
Execution of EchoStar's business strategy to launch and operate DBS
satellites has dramatically changed its operating results and financial position
when compared to its historical results. As of June 30, 1996, EchoStar expects
to invest in the future approximately an additional $500 million to build,
launch and support EchoStar I, EchoStar II, EchoStar III and EchoStar IV (Note
6), assuming receipt of all required FCC licenses and permits. EchoStar
consummated the 1994 Notes Offering, the 1996 Notes Offering and the Equity
Offering to partially satisfy these capital requirements. Annual interest
expense on the 1994 and 1996 Notes and depreciation of the investment in the
satellites and related assets is of a magnitude that exceeds historical levels
of income before taxes. Consequently, beginning in 1995 EchoStar reported
significant net losses and expects net losses to continue through at least 1997.
EchoStar's plans also include the construction and launch of two fixed service
satellites, additional DBS, Ku-band and KuX-band satellites, and marketing to
promote its DBS products and services.
Beginning in June 1996, EchoStar began marketing a special promotion in a
limited number of markets pursuant to which consumers were able to purchase a
discounted EchoStar Receiver System under the condition the consumer commits to
subscribe and prepay for DISH NetworkSM programming service for a minimum of one
year. The primary purposes of the promotion were to expand retail distribution,
build awareness of the DISH NetworkSM brand and rapidly build a subscriber base.
Due to positive retailer and consumer results, among other factors, effective
August 1, 1996, EchoStar began a nationwide rollout of the promotion. While this
promotion will significantly increase EchoStar's investment in its subscriber
base, EchoStar believes that the increase in subscribers to its DISH NetworkSM
and the corresponding increase in DBS programming revenue in future periods,
resulting from this promotion, will be more than sufficient to recover the
investment in subscriber acquisition costs.
EchoStar expects net losses to continue as it builds its subscription
television business, and therefore, absent additional capital, EchoStar expects
negative stockholders' equity to result before December 31, 1997. EchoStar's
expected net losses will result primarily from: (i) the amortization of the
original issue discount on the 1994 and 1996 Notes; (ii) increases in
depreciation expense on the satellites and other fixed assets; (iii)
amortization expense of the subscriber acquisition costs (Note 2); and (iv)
increases in selling, general and administrative expenses to support the DISH
NetworkSM. Although the negative equity position has significant implications,
including, but not limited to, non-compliance with NASDAQ listing criteria,
which could result in delisting, EchoStar believes this event will not
materially affect the implementation and execution of its business strategy.
While EchoStar believes it will be able to obtain a waiver from NASDAQ and
remain listed, no assurance can be given NASDAQ will grant a waiver. Delisting
would result in a decline in EchoStar's common stock trading market which could
potentially depress stock and bond prices, among other things.
As a result of the factors discussed above, EchoStar will need to raise
additional funds to complete its full complement of satellites. There can be no
assurance that necessary funds will be available or, if available, that they
will be available on terms favorable to EchoStar. Management believes, however,
but can give no assurance, that demand for its DBS products and DISH NetworkSM
programming and EchoStar's ability to satisfy this demand will result in
sufficient cash flow which, together with other sources of capital, will be
sufficient to satisfy future planned expenditures. Significant delays or launch
failures may have significant adverse consequences to EchoStar's operating
results and financial condition.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires the use of management 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 revenue and expenses for each reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
This Supplemental Quarterly Financial Information of EchoStar contains
statements which constitute forward looking statements within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange
F-51
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
Act of 1934, as amended. Those statements appear in a number of places in the
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Information and include statements regarding
the intent, belief or current expectations of EchoStar with respect to, among
other things: (i) EchoStar's financing plans; (ii) trends affecting EchoStar's
financial conditions or results of operations; (iii) EchoStar's growth strategy;
(iv) EchoStar's anticipated results of future operations; and (v) regulatory
matters affecting EchoStar. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such
forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve
risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from
those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various
factors.
(2) SUPPLEMENTAL ANALYSIS
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
EchoStar considers all investments purchased with an original maturity of
ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents as of December 31,
1995, and June 30, 1996 consist of money market funds, corporate notes and
commercial paper stated at cost which equates to market value.
RESTRICTED CASH AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES
EchoStar classifies all marketable investment securities as available-for-
sale. Accordingly, these investments are reflected at market value based on
quoted market prices. Related unrealized gains and losses are reported as a
separate component of stockholders' equity, net of related deferred income
taxes. The specific identification method is used to determine cost in computing
realized gains and losses.
Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities in Escrow Accounts as reflected
on the accompanying balance sheets represent the remaining net proceeds received
from the 1994 Notes Offerings, and a portion of the proceeds from the 1996 Notes
Offering, plus interest earned, less amounts expended to date in connection with
the development, construction and launch of the DISH NetworkSM. These proceeds
are held in separate escrow accounts (the "1994 Escrow Account" and the "1996
Escrow Account", respectively) for the benefit of the holders of the 1994 and
1996 Notes and are invested in certain debt and other marketable securities, as
permitted by the respective Indentures, until disbursed for the express purposes
identified in the 1994 Notes Offering Prospectus and the 1996 Notes Offering
Prospectus, as the case may be.
Other Restricted Cash includes $11.4 million and $5.7 million at December
31, 1995 and June 30, 1996, respectively, to satisfy certain covenants regarding
launch insurance required by the 1994 Notes Indenture. EchoStar is required to
maintain launch insurance and Restricted Cash totaling $225.0 million for
EchoStar II. EchoStar has obtained $219.3 million of launch insurance for
EchoStar II, and, together with the cash segregated and reserved on the
accompanying balance sheet as of June 30, 1996, has satisfied its launch
insurance obligations under the 1994 Notes Indenture. In addition, as of June
30, 1996, $15.0 million was in an escrow account established pursuant to a DBS
satellite receiver manufacturing contract for payment to the manufacturer as
certain milestones are reached and $15.5 million was in an escrow account for
the purpose of cash collateralizing certain standby letters of credit (Note 4).
The major components of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities are as follows
(in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, 1995 JUNE 30, 1996
------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------
UNREALIZED
UNREALIZED HOLDING
AMORTIZED HOLDING MARKET AMORTIZED GAIN MARKET
COST GAIN VALUE COST (LOSS) VALUE
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Commercial paper . . . . . . $66,214 $ -- $66,214 $111,705 $ -- $111,705
Government bonds . . . . . . 32,904 420 33,324 97,138 229 97,367
Corporate notes. . . . . . . -- -- -- 9,108 (25) 9,083
Accrued interest . . . . . . 153 -- 153 1,362 -- 1,362
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
$99,271 $420 $99,691 $219,313 $204 $219,517
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
F-52
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is
determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Proprietary products
are manufactured by outside suppliers to EchoStar's specifications. EchoStar
also distributes non-proprietary products purchased from other manufacturers.
Manufactured inventories include materials, labor and manufacturing overhead.
Cost of other inventories includes parts, contract manufacturers' delivered
price, assembly and testing labor, and related overhead, including handling and
storage costs. The major components of inventory were as follows (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------ -----------
DISH NetworkSM DBS Receivers . . . . . . . $ -- $19,911
DBS receiver components. . . . . . . . . . 9,615 12,844
Consigned DBS receiver components. . . . . -- 8,784
Finished goods - C-band. . . . . . . . . . 11,161 3,819
Finished goods - International . . . . . . 9,297 4,234
Competitor DBS Receivers . . . . . . . . . 9,404 --
Spare parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,089 2,225
Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory. (2,797) (3,431)
------------ -----------
$38,769 $48,386
------------ -----------
------------ -----------
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
Cost includes interest capitalized on the EchoStar DBS System during
construction at EchoStar's effective borrowing rate. The major components of
property and equipment were as follows (in thousands):
ESTIMATED
USEFUL LIFE DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
(IN YEARS) 1995 1996
----------- ----------- ----------
Construction in progress . . . . . . . -- $303,174 $162,803
EchoStar I satellite . . . . . . . . . 12 -- 201,672
Furniture, fixtures and equipment. . . 2-12 35,127 51,901
Buildings and improvements . . . . . . 7-40 21,006 22,779
Tooling and other. . . . . . . . . . . 2 2,039 3,913
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 1,613 2,294
Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 1,310 1,325
----------- ----------
Total property and equipment . . . . 364,269 446,687
Less-Accumulated depreciation. . . (10,269) (19,906)
----------- ----------
Net property and equipment . . . . $354,000 $426,781
----------- ----------
----------- ----------
F-53
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
Construction in progress includes capitalized costs related to the
construction and launch of EchoStar II and EchoStar IV, which are currently
scheduled for launch in September 1996 and prior to the end of 1998,
respectively. Construction in progress for EchoStar III includes costs related
to that launch, which is scheduled prior to the end of 1997. Construction in
progress consisted of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------- ----------
Progress amounts for satellite construction,
launch, launch insurance, capitalized
interest, launch and in-orbit tracking,
telemetry and control services:
EchoStar I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $193,629 $ --
EchoStar II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88,634 126,541
EchoStar III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,801 8,672
EchoStar IV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 25,693
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 1,897
------------- ----------
$303,174 $162,803
------------- ----------
------------- ----------
OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS
The major components of other noncurrent assets were as follows (in
thousands):
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------ ----------
Long-term notes receivable from DBSC . . . . . . $16,000 $ 28,500
Deferred tax assets, net . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,109 23,714
FCC authorizations, net of amortization. . . . . 11,309 15,528
1996 Notes deferred debt issuance costs,
net of amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 12,597
1994 Notes deferred debt issuance costs,
net of amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,622 9,991
Deposit on FCC authorization . . . . . . . . . . -- 11,071
SSET convertible subordinated debentures
and accrued interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,610 9,919
Investment in DBSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,111 4,025
DBSI convertible subordinated debentures. . . . 1,000 4,000
Subscriber acquisition costs,
net of amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- 3,215
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 897 2,134
------------ ----------
$65,658 $124,694
------------ ----------
------------ ----------
EchoStar presently owns approximately 40% of the outstanding common stock
of Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation ("DBSC"). DBSC's principal assets
include an FCC conditional satellite construction permit and specific orbital
slot assignments for eleven DBS frequencies at 61.5DEG. WL and eleven DBS
frequencies at 175DEG. WL (the "DBS Rights"). EchoStar intends to merge DBSC
with Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation ("New DBSC"), a wholly owned
subsidiary of EchoStar (the "DBSC Merger"). The DBSC Merger has been approved by
DBSC shareholders but will not be consummated until the FCC has approved the
DBSC Merger. Although no assurances can be given, EchoStar expects the FCC to
issue an order with respect to the DBSC Merger in the near future. Assuming FCC
approval of the DBSC Merger, EchoStar will hold, through New DBSC, DBSC's DBS
Rights. On July 11, 1996, EchoStar filed Amendment No. 1 to a Registration
Statement on Form S-4 under the Securities Act covering 658,000 shares of
EchoStar Class A Common Stock that are intended to be issued in connection with
the DBSC Merger.
FCC AUTHORIZATIONS
FCC authorizations are recorded at cost and are amortized using the
straight-line method. Amortization periods for FCC authorization costs are
determined at the time the services related to the applicable FCC authorization
commences, or capitalized costs are written off at the time efforts to provide
services are abandoned. FCC authorization costs are expected to have a useful
life of approximately 12 years. The deposit on FCC authorization represents a
F-54
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
deposit paid by EchoStar to the FCC in January 1996, for 24 frequencies at
148DEG. WL. The balance due the FCC for the purchase of the frequencies of
$41.8 million will be drawn from the 1996 Escrow Account, and is payable to the
FCC five days after EchoStar receives FCC approval for use of the orbital slot.
SUBSCRIBER ACQUISITION COSTS
For the purpose of attracting subscribers to the DISH NetworkSM, EchoStar
has sponsored certain sales promotions through independent consumer electronics
and satellite retailers. EchoStar effectively sells its proprietary DBS
reception equipment to these retailers at less than cost under the condition
consumers commit to subscribe and prepay for DISH NetworkSM programming service
for a minimum of one year. The subscriber acquisition costs recorded represent
the difference between the direct costs of the hardware and the revenue
generated from the sales of the hardware. These costs have been deferred and are
being amortized over the expected minimum life of the subscriber, currently
estimated to be three years. Any unamortized investment with respect to
subscribers who discontinue DISH NetworkSM service after one year but before the
end of three years, will be fully amortized to expense at that time. EchoStar
believes subscriber acquisition costs will be recovered through future revenue
generated from sales of DISH NetworkSM programming. Amortization expense of
subscriber acquisition costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 1996
was approximately $92,000.
DEFERRED PROGRAMMING REVENUE
Deferred programming revenue consists of advance payments received from
programming providers and subscribers for satellite television programming to be
provided in future periods. The revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis
over the period the programming is provided.
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized, on the accompanying income
statements includes: (i) amortization of original issue discount on the 1994
Notes and the 1996 Notes; (ii) interest expense on contractor financing of
EchoStar I; (iii) interest expense on corporate mortgage debt; and (iv)
discounts on accounts receivable for EchoStar Receiver Systems and DISH
NetworkSM programming which have been factored without credit recourse to third
party financing groups.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings per share have been calculated based on the weighted average
number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding and, if dilutive, common
stock equivalents (warrants and employee stock options) during the three and six
months ended June 30, 1995 and 1996. Net loss has been adjusted for cumulative
dividends on the 8% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock.
(3) LONG-TERM DEBT
1994 NOTES
On June 7, 1994, Dish, Ltd. completed the 1994 Notes Offering of 624,000
units consisting of $624.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 1994 Notes
and 3,744,000 Warrants. The 1994 Notes Offering resulted in net proceeds to
Dish, Ltd. of approximately $323.3 million. As of June 30, 1996, substantially
all of the Warrants issued in connection with the 1994 Notes Offering had been
exercised. Interest on the 1994 Notes currently is not payable in cash but
accrues through June 1, 1999, with the 1994 Notes accreting to $624.0 million by
that date. Thereafter, interest on the 1994 Notes will be payable in cash semi-
annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing December 1, 1999. At
June 30, 1996, the 1994 Notes were reflected in the accompanying financial
statements at $408.4 million, net of unamortized discount of $215.6 million.
F-55
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
1996 NOTES
On March 25, 1996, ESB completed the 1996 Notes Offering consisting of
$580.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 1996 Notes. The 1996 Notes
Offering resulted in net proceeds to ESB of approximately $337.0 million.
Interest on the 1996 Notes currently is not payable in cash but accrues through
March 15, 2000, with the 1996 Notes accreting to $580.0 million by that date.
Thereafter, interest on the 1996 Notes will be payable in cash semi-annually on
March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing September 15, 2000. At June
30, 1996, the 1996 Notes were reflected in the accompanying financial statements
at $361.7 million, net of unamortized discount of $218.3 million.
(4) BANK CREDIT FACILITY AND LETTERS OF CREDIT
From May 1994 to May 1996, the principal subsidiaries of EchoStar, except
EchoStar Satellite Corporation ("ESC") (the "Borrowers"), were parties to an
agreement with Bank of America Illinois, which provided a revolving credit
facility (the "Credit Facility") for working capital advances and for letters of
credit necessary for inventory purchases and satellite construction payments.
The Credit Facility expired in May 1996 and EchoStar does not currently intend
to arrange a replacement credit facility. Instead, EchoStar is using available
cash to collateralize its letter of credit obligations, which historically was
the only significant use of the Credit Facility. At June 30, 1996, EchoStar had
cash collateralized $15.5 million of certain standby letters of credit for trade
purchases which is included in restricted cash and marketable securities in the
accompanying financial statements (Note 2).
(5) INCOME TAXES
The components of the benefit for income taxes were as follows (in
thousands):
THREE MONTHS ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
------------------ ------------------
1995 1996 1995 1996
-------- --------- -------- ---------
Current (provision) benefit
Federal . . . . . . . . . . $ (845) $ 1,264 $(1,612) $ 4,466
State . . . . . . . . . . . (177) 626 (371) 966
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . (274) 2 (451) (120)
-------- --------- -------- ---------
(1,296) 1,892 (2,434) 5,312
-------- --------- -------- --------
Deferred benefit
Federal . . . . . . . . . . 1,766 9,820 3,816 11,101
State . . . . . . . . . . . 365 343 808 433
-------- --------- -------- --------
2,131 10,163 4,624 11,534
-------- --------- -------- --------
Total benefit . . . . . . $ 835 $12,055 $2,190 $16,846
-------- --------- -------- --------
-------- --------- -------- --------
EchoStar's deferred tax assets (approximately $25.5 million at June 30,
1996) relate principally to temporary differences for amortization of original
issue discount on the 1994 and 1996 Notes, net operating loss carryforwards and
various accrued expenses which are not deductible until paid. No valuation
allowance has been provided because EchoStar currently believes it is more
likely than not that these deferred assets will ultimately be realized. If
future operating results differ materially and adversely from EchoStar's current
expectations, its judgment regarding the need for a valuation allowance may
change.
(6) OTHER COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SATELLITE CONTRACTS
EchoStar has contracted with Lockheed Martin Corporation ("Martin") for the
construction and delivery of high powered DBS satellites and for related
services. Martin has completed construction of both EchoStar I and EchoStar II
and is in the construction phase on EchoStar III and EchoStar IV. The
construction contract for EchoStar III contains a provision whereby, beginning
August 1, 1997, a PER DIEM penalty of $3,333, to a maximum of $100,000, is
F-56
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
payable if EchoStar III is not delivered by July 31, 1997. Beginning September
1, 1997, additional delays in the delivery of EchoStar III would result in
additional PER DIEM penalties of $33,333, up to a maximum of $5.0 million in the
aggregate.
EchoStar has entered into a contract with Martin to begin the construction
phase of EchoStar's fourth DBS satellite ("EchoStar IV"). This contract contains
an option provision which allows EchoStar to instruct Martin to begin the
construction phase of a fifth DBS satellite ("EchoStar V"). The contract for
EchoStar IV also contains a provision whereby, beginning February 16, 1998, a
PER DIEM penalty of $50,000, to a maximum of $5.0 million in the aggregate, is
payable if EchoStar IV is not delivered by February 15, 1998. The contract also
contains a provision whereby Martin is entitled to an early delivery incentive
payment of $50,000 for each day before February 15, 1998 the satellite is
delivered to the launch site of Baikonur, Kazakhstan, up to a maximum of $5.0
million in the aggregate.
Contractor financing of $28.0 million will be used for EchoStar II.
Contractor financing of $15.0 million will be used for both EchoStar III and
EchoStar IV. Interest on the contractor financing will range between 7.75% and
8.25% and principal payments are payable in equal monthly installments over five
years following the launch of the respective satellite.
EchoStar has entered into a contract with Arianespace, Inc. ("Arianespace")
to launch EchoStar II from Korou, French Guiana (the "Arianespace Contract").
The launch is currently scheduled for September 1996 on a dedicated Ariane 42P
launch vehicle. The Arianespace Contract contains provisions entitling either
party to delay the launch in limited circumstances, subject to the payment of
penalties in some cases. As of June 30, 1996, EchoStar has paid Arianespace
approximately $43.4 million pursuant to the Arianespace Contract. All remaining
payments are payable monthly and will be due prior to the launch. Subsequent to
June 30, 1996, an additional payment relating to the launch totaling $17.4
million was made to Arianespace.
EchoStar has entered into a contract for launch services with Lockheed
Martin Commercial Launch Services, Inc. ("Lockheed") for the launch of EchoStar
III from Cape Canaveral Air Station, Florida during the fall of 1997, subject to
delay or acceleration in certain circumstances (the "Lockheed Contract"). The
Lockheed Contract provides for launch of the satellite utilizing an Atlas IIAS
launch vehicle. EchoStar has made an initial payment to Lockheed of $5.0 million
and the remaining cost is payable in installments in accordance with the payment
schedule set forth in the Lockheed Contract, which requires that substantially
all payments be made to Lockheed prior to the launch.
Subsequent to June 30, 1996, EchoStar and Martin amended the contracts for
the construction of EchoStar I and EchoStar II. As collateral security for
contractor financing of EchoStar I and EchoStar II, EchoStar was required to
provide a letter of credit prior to the launch of EchoStar II in the amount of
$10 million (increasing to more than $40 million by 1999) and the principal
stockholder of EchoStar pledged all of his Preferred Stock to Martin ("Preferred
Stock Guarantee"). Under the amended agreements, EchoStar will issue a corporate
guarantee covering all obligations to Martin with respect to the contractor
financing for EchoStar I and EchoStar II. In consideration for the receipt of
the corporate guarantee by EchoStar, Martin has agreed to eliminate the letter
of credit requirements, and to release the Preferred Stock Guarantee in
accordance with a specified formula based on the then outstanding contractor
financing debt and the market value of EchoStar's Class A Common Stock. This
transaction has been approved by EchoStar's board of directors with EchoStar's
principal stockholder abstaining from the vote. Additionally, EchoStar will
issue a corporate guarantee covering all obligations to Martin with respect to
the contractor financing for EchoStar III and EchoStar IV.
EchoStar has contracted with Lockheed-Khrunichev-Energia-International,
Inc. ("LKE") for the launch of EchoStar IV during 1998 from the Kazakh Republic,
a territory of the former Soviet Union, utilizing a Proton launch vehicle (the
"LKE Contract"). Either party may request a delay in the relevant launch period,
subject to the payment of penalties based on the length of the delay and the
proximity of the request to the launch date. EchoStar has paid LKE $20.0 million
pursuant to the LKE Contract. No additional payments are currently required to
be made to LKE until 1997.
F-57
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
PURCHASE COMMITMENTS
EchoStar has entered into agreements with various manufacturers to purchase
DBS satellite receivers and related components manufactured based on EchoStar's
supplied specifications. As of June 30, 1996 the remaining commitments total
approximately $402.4 million. At June 30, 1996, the total of all outstanding
purchase order commitments with domestic and foreign suppliers was approximately
$419.2 million. All but approximately $189.2 million of the purchases related to
these commitments are expected to be made during 1996 and the remainder is
expected to be made during 1997. EchoStar expects to finance these purchases
from available cash, marketable investment securities and sales of its DISH
NetworkSM programming.
OTHER RISKS AND CONTINGENCIES
EchoStar is subject to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the
ordinary course of its business. In the opinion of management, the amount of
ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not materially affect the
financial position or results of operations of EchoStar.
(7) SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS
The 1994 Notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally
guaranteed by all subsidiaries of Dish, Ltd. (collectively, the "1994 Notes
Guarantors"), except for certain de minimis domestic and foreign subsidiaries.
The 1996 Notes are initially guaranteed by EchoStar on a subordinated
basis. On and after the Dish Guarantee Date (as defined in the 1996 Notes
Indenture), the 1996 Notes will be guaranteed by Dish, Ltd., which guarantee
will rank PARI PASSU with all senior unsecured indebtedness of Dish, Ltd. On and
after the date upon which the DBSC Merger is consummated, the 1996 Notes will be
guaranteed by New DBSC, which guarantee will rank PARI PASSU with all senior
unsecured indebtedness of New DBSC. If the DBSC Merger is not consummated, New
DBSC will not be required to guarantee the 1996 Notes. There can be no assurance
that the DBSC Merger will be approved by the FCC or that it will be consummated
(Note 2).
The consolidated net assets of Dish, Ltd., including the non-guarantors,
exceeded the consolidated net assets of the 1994 Notes Guarantors by
approximately $277,000 and $180,000 as of December 31, 1995 and June 30, 1996,
respectively. Summarized consolidated financial information for Dish, Ltd. is as
follows (in thousands):
THREE MONTHS ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
------------------- -------------------
1995 1996 1995 1996
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Income Statement Data --
Revenue . . . . . . . . . . $39,252 $ 69,354 $79,665 $110,380
Expenses. . . . . . . . . . 38,484 87,007 79,595 136,941
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income (loss) . . 768 (17,653) 70 (26,561)
Other income (expense), net (3,432) (8,642) (6,329) (11,876)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net loss before income taxes (2,664) (26,295) (6,259) (38,437)
Benefit for income taxes. . 851 9,097 2,206 13,949
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net loss. . . . . . . . . $(1,813) $(17,198) $(4,053) $(24,488)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
F-58
<PAGE>
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30,
1995 1996
------------- -------------
Balance Sheet Data --
Current assets. . . . . . . . . . . $ 81,858 $ 92,162
Property and equipment, net . . . . 333,199 390,358
Other noncurrent assets . . . . . . 144,238 116,398
------------- -------------
Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . $559,295 $598,918
------------- -------------
------------- -------------
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . $ 50,743 $ 81,723
Long-term liabilities . . . . . . . 415,662 448,949
Stockholder's equity. . . . . . . . 92,890 68,246
------------- -------------
Total liabilities and
stockholder's equity . . . . . . $559,295 $598,918
------------- -------------
------------- -------------
F-59
<PAGE>
SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(UNAUDITED)
AS OF AND FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
F-60
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
<TABLE>
December 31, June 30,
1995 1996
------------ -----------
(Audited) (Unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash...................................................... $ 72,950 $ 8,692
Money Market Funds -
Crestfunds, Inc - Cash Reserves Fund.................... 285,978 51,503
Pacific Horizon Prime Fund.............................. 7,081 16,712
----------- -----------
Total current assets.................................. 366,009 76,907
----------- -----------
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, AT COST:
Satellite development in process (Note 4).................. 17,882,707 34,132,291
Computer equipment......................................... 5,073 5,073
Less: Accumulated depreciation............................ (2,730) (3,266)
----------- -----------
Cost less accumulated depreciation.................. 17,885,050 34,134,098
----------- -----------
OTHER ASSETS:
FCC license (Note 3)....................................... 865,571 1,015,011
Unamortized loan costs..................................... 67,058 62,867
Deferred tax benefit (Note 7).............................. -- --
Security deposits.......................................... 2,575 2,575
------------ -----------
Total other assets....................................... 935,204 1,080,453
------------ -----------
Total assets........................................... $19,186,263 $35,291,458
------------ -----------
------------ -----------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Satellite development costs payable........................ $ -- $ 2,500,000
Accounts payable........................................... 140,958 112,605
Unsecured note payable (Note 6A)........................... 500,000 500,000
Accrued interest........................................... 237,226 260,719
Unsecured notes payable (Note 6B) (in arrears)............. 325,000 325,000
Accrued interest in arrears (Note 6)....................... 341,074 354,440
Due to shareholder......................................... 3,024 5,051
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities................................ 1,547,282 4,057,815
----------- -----------
LONG-TERM DEBT:
Secured notes payable (Note 5)............................. 16,000,000 28,500,000
Accrued interest (Notes 5 & 6)............................. 10,082 1,259,666
----------- -----------
Total long-term debt..................................... 16,010,082 29,759,666
----------- -----------
Total liabilities...................................... 17,557,364 33,817,481
----------- -----------
COMMITMENTS (Note 4)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common Stock, $.01 par value, 3,000,000 shares authorized;
1,620,138 shares issued and outstanding.................. 16,201 16,201
Additional paid in capital................................. 5,849,046 5,849,046
Accumulated deficit (Note 1)............................... (2,755,808) (2,755,808)
Accumulated deficit during development stage............... (1,480,540) (1,635,462)
----------- -----------
Total stockholders' equity............................... 1,628,899 1,473,977
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity............. $19,186,263 $35,291,458
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-61
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
April 1, 1990
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended (Inception) to
June 30, June 30, June 30, 1996
-------------------------- ------------------------- -------------
1995 1996 1995 1996 (Note 1)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUE:
Gain on settlement of indebtedness...... $ 31,656 $ -- $ 31,656 $ -- $ 31,656
Investment income....................... 30,609 2,142 50,089 15,157 103,216
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
Total revenue......................... 62,265 2,142 81,745 15,157 134,872
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Interest expense........................ 20,104 18,338 39,424 36,858 649,114
Legal fees.............................. 7,416 9,694 7,416 16,997 402,889
Consulting fees......................... 46,653 36,000 88,956 72,000 489,327
Professional services................... -- 5,860 4,660 12,510 46,531
Rent.................................... 8,284 3,450 15,510 10,250 56,800
Taxes and licenses...................... 325 125 325 795 7,829
Other administrative expenses........... 15,127 9,132 22,938 15,942 110,387
Depreciation and amortization........... 335 2,363 1,026 4,727 7,457
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
Total operating expenses.............. 98,244 84,962 180,255 170,079 1,770,334
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
NET LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES.............. (35,979) (82,820) (98,510) (154,922) (1,635,462)
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES (Note 7)....... -- -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
NET LOSS.................................. $ (35,979) $ (82,820) $ (98,510) $ (154,922) $(1,635,462)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON
SHARES OUTSTANDING........................ 1,618,138 1,620,138 1,618,138 1,620,138 1,072,468
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
LOSS PER COMMON SHARE..................... $ ( .02) $ (.05) $ (.06) $ (.10) $ (1.52)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-62
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
Common Stock Accumulated
----------------- Additional Deficit During Total
Par Paid-in Accumulated Development Stockholders'
Shares Value Capital Deficit Stage Equity
--------- ------- ---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE at
December 31, 1995 .... 1,620,138 $16,201 $5,849,046 $(2,755,808) $(1,480,540) $1,628,899
Net Loss .......... -- -- -- -- (154,922) (154,922)
--------- ------- ---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
BALANCE at
June 30, 1996 ........ 1,620,138 $16,201 $5,849,046 $(2,755,808) $(1,635,462) $1,473,977
--------- ------- ---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
--------- ------- ---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-63
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED) April 1, 1990
Six months ended (Inception) to
June 30, June 30, 1996
-------------------------- --------------
1995 1996 (Note 1)
------------ ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss............................$ (98,510) $ (154,922) $ (1,635,462)
Adjustment to reconcile net loss to
net cash applied to operating
activities:
Depreciation and amortization..... 1,026 4,727 7,457
Gain on settlement of indebtedness (31,655) -- (31,655)
Noncash consulting fees........... -- -- 16,000
Increase (decrease) in accounts
payable......................... 4,178 (2,330) (51,405)
Increase in accrued interest
payable......................... 39,424 36,859 626,156
Increase (decrease) due to
shareholders.................... 6,378 2,027 (3,203)
----------- ------------ ------------
Net cash applied to operating
activities.................... (79,159) (113,639) (1,072,112)
----------- ------------ ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of furniture and
equipment......................... -- -- (5,073)
Increase in satellite development
costs............................. (1,548,375) (12,500,000) (30,372,625)
Increase in FCC license............. (139,167) (108,405) (773,649)
----------- ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing
activities...................... (1,687,542) (12,608,405) (31,151,347)
----------- ------------ ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Increase in secured notes payable... -- 12,500,000 28,500,000
Issuance of common stock............ -- -- 3,384,999
Increase in notes payable........... -- -- 652,500
Increase in contract payable........ -- -- 62,500
Payment on contract payable......... -- -- (62,500)
Increase in loan costs.............. -- (67,058) (67,058)
Payment of notes payable............ (15,000) -- (167,500)
Increase in security deposit........ (380) -- (2,575)
----------- ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing
activities...................... (15,380) 12,432,942 32,300,366
----------- ------------ ------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH....... (1,782,081) (289,102) 76,907
CASH AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD........... 2,406,710 366,009 --
----------- ------------ ------------
CASH AT END OF PERIOD................. $ 624,629 $ 76,907 $ 76,907
----------- ------------ ------------
----------- ------------ ------------
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF
CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for
interest.......................... -- -- 22,958
----------- ------------ ------------
----------- ------------ ------------
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH
AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Additional common stock was issued
upon the conversion of notes
payable in the amount of $700,000,
plus related accrued interest
totaling $629,406................. -- -- $1,329,406
Additional common stock was issued
in exchange for consulting
services.......................... -- -- 16,000
DISCLOSURE OF ACCOUNTING POLICY:
For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Company considers money
market funds to be cash equivalents.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-64
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND JUNE 30, 1996
(1) ORGANIZATION
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation (the "Company" or
"DBSC"), a development stage company, was incorporated
January 23, 1981 in the State of Delaware. It is constructing
satellites, and plans to operate a direct-to-home, multi-channel
satellite broadcast television service. Funding of the Company's
operations has been obtained through the private placement of
common stock and issuance of convertible debt, demand notes and
accounts payable.
On December 21, 1995, the Company and EchoStar Communications
Corporation ("EchoStar"), a 39.8% shareholder, agreed to a merger,
subject to receipt of requisite government approval. Echostar
holds direct broadcasting satellite authorizations for 21 channels
at 119DEG. W.L. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, (1) the
Company and EchoStar agreed to, merge DBSC into a wholly-owned
subsidiary of EchoStar, and (2) the Company's shareholders will be
entitled to receive at their option, $7.99 in cash or .67417 EchoStar
shares for each of the Company's 975,148 shares not already owned
by EchoStar.
Echostar also agreed, at its sole discretion, to loan the
Company up to $150,000,000 for expenses associated with the
construction, launch, and insurance of the Company's spacecraft.
On December 29, 1995, the Company drew down $16 million under its
loan purchase agreement with EchoStar and paid Lockheed Martin
Corporation $16 million on the same day. During the six months
ended June 30, 1996, the Company drew down an additional $12.5
million under the agreement.
Without the Echostar or other financing, the Company's ability
to meet its existing obligations and proceed with the construction
of the satellite is doubtful. In such case, the ultimate realization
of the capitalized FCC license application costs, as well as the
deferred satellite development costs, are doubtful, and the
continuance of the Company as an operating entity would be uncertain.
The Company's development activities were dormant for a
period of years ended March 31, 1990. During the year ended
March 31, 1991, the Company began development of two new satellites.
In accordance with SFAS No. 7, development stage activities for
presentation purposes on the statements of income and cash flow
are for the period April 1, 1990 to June 30, 1996. Prior development
stage activity losses amounting to $2,755,808 are reflected in
stockholders' equity as accumulated deficit.
(2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Effective April 1, 1995, the Company changed its fiscal year
to December 31 from March 31.
Loan costs are being amortized over the 8-year life of the
secured notes, effective January 1, 1996.
Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial
statements. Those estimates and assumptions affect the reported
amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities, and the reported revenues and expenses.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Losses per share have been computed based on the weighted
average number of shares of common stock outstanding
during each six month period.
F-65
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND JUNE 30, 1996
(CONTINUED)
(3) FCC LICENSE
The Company's application for authority to construct and
operate a direct broadcast satellite system was approved by
the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") and a conditional
construction permit for two spacecraft was released on August 15,
1989. On November 10, 1993, the FCC found that the Company had
complied with the necessary due diligence requirements and assigned
specific orbit/spectrum resources to the Company. On June 30, 1995,
the Company notified the FCC that it had signed a spacecraft contract
modification and sought approval thereof. On December 8, 1995, the
FCC staff granted the Company an extension of time through November
1998, to construct and launch two spacecraft but withheld action on a
modification of the spacecraft design pending submission of further
engineering data.
Certain costs incurred in connection with filing the FCC
license application and maintaining the authority have
been capitalized. Amortization periods for these costs
will be determined at the time the services related to
the applicable FCC license commences, or capitalized
costs will be written off at the time efforts to
provide services are abandoned. FCC licenses are
expected to have a useful life of approximately 10
years.
(4) SATELLITE DEVELOPMENT COSTS
The Company has entered into a contract for the construction
of two satellites. The contract, as amended, provides
for periodic, non-refundable payments over a period
extending to October 30, 2003, as well as cancellation
penalties if the contract is terminated before the
satellites are launched. As of June 30, 1996, payments
made under the terms of the contract totaled
$30,338,500. The contract calls for additional
payments of up to $45,000,000 in the year ending
December 31, 1996. The total commitment under the
contract is in excess of $160 million.
At June 30, 1996, total satellite development costs amounted
to $34,132,291, including capitalized interest of
$1,259,666.
During construction and prior to launch, the Company has
granted to the Contractor a full security interest in
all hardware, software and work in process
(collectively "Security") related to the two
satellites. In the event of certain defaults by the
Company, the Contractor shall immediately assume
ownership of the entire Security.
(5) SECURED NOTES PAYABLE
On December 29, 1995, the Company borrowed $16,000,000, and
during the six months ended June 30, 1996, borrowed
$12,500,000, per the terms of a note purchase agreement
and a security agreement between EchoStar and the
Company. The promissory notes are secured by an
assignment, pledge and grant of security interest in
all the estate, right, title and interest of the
Company, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, in,
to and under (1) the Satellites and DBS Rights, (2) all
agreements, contracts and documents related to the
Satellites, DBS Rights, and business of the Company,
(3) all income and revenues from all business
operations, and (4) all tangible and/or intangible
property of the Company, including the Satellites.
However, the security in the Satellites is subordinate
to the security interest in and to the Satellites held
by Lockheed Martin.
F-66
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND JUNE 30, 1996
(CONTINUED)
Interest accrues at Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate plus 3
percent as of the date of each loan draw. Principal and interest
is payable in seven equal annual installments beginning two years
after each loan draw. The December 29, 1997 installment related to
the $16,000,000 loan will be approximately $3,713,300, including
interest at 11.5%. The annual installments related to the
$12,500,000 of additional loans will be approximately $2,875,045,
starting in February 1998, including interest at 11.25%.
(6) UNSECURED NOTES PAYABLE
A. UNSECURED NOTE PAYABLE.
A note payable in the amount of $500,000 is payable 90 days
after the successful launch and check-out of DBSC's first Direct
Broadcast Satellite-Broadcast Satellite System, or on demand in
certain other limited circumstances. Interest is payable at
Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate plus 1% per annum or 4% after
maturity, or in event of default. As of December 31, 1995, the
note payable and the related accrued interest were payable on demand.
B. CONVERTIBLE NOTES PAYABLE.
Convertible notes payable amounted to $325,000 at December 31,
1995 and June 30, 1996. Notes totalling $100,000 accrue interest at
75% of Chase Manhattan Bank prime rate, and notes totalling $225,000
accrue interest at 100% of the prime rate.
The notes provide that until they are paid in full, a note holder
at his option may convert principal into shares of the authorized
common stock of the Company as follows: $100,000 of principal at $6.67
per share, and $225,000 of principal at $8.33 per share.
(7) INCOME TAXES
Effective April 1, 1992, the Company adopted SFAS No. 109,
"Accounting for Income Taxes", which requires an asset and
liability approach to financial accounting and reporting for
income taxes. The difference between the financial statement
and tax bases of assets and liabilities are computed for those
differences that have future tax consequences using the currently
enacted tax laws and rates that apply to the periods in which
they are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances
are established, if necessary, to reduce the deferred tax asset
to the amount that will more likely than not be realized. Income
tax expense is the current tax payable or refundable for the period,
plus or minus the net change in the deferred tax assets and liabilities.
The adoption of Statement 109 did not have an effect on the
Company's financial statements because the deferred income tax
benefit has been offset by a valuation allowance of equal amount.
The valuation allowance was established to reduce the deferred tax
benefit to the amount that will more likely than not be realized.
This reduction is necessary due to the uncertainty of the Company's
ability to utilize all of the future tax deduction resulting from
net operating losses.
F-67
<PAGE>
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND JUNE 30, 1996
(CONTINUED)
The gross deferred income tax benefit was approximately
$849,382 at December 31, 1995, and $886,057 at June 30,
1996.
The deferred income tax benefit results primarily from net
operating losses for tax purposes. The net operating
loss carryover to future years is $2,202,393 at
December 31, 1995, and $2,320,455 at June 30, 1996,
none of which will expire until the year 1999. In
addition, the Company has not claimed as a tax
deduction accrued interest payable of $615,159. For
income tax purposes, the Company reports its net income
(loss) on the cash basis.
(8) CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
In 1982, the Company entered into agreements with two French
corporations pursuant to which each corporation, in
exchange for the Company's commitment to procure
satellite hardware, paid to a satellite launch
provider, for the benefit of the Company, a launch
reservation fee of $100,000. The first agreement, as
amended, specified that payment of the $100,000 plus
interest of 13% per annum was due on December 31, 1983.
The second agreement provided that the Company was
obligated to issue 6,000 (as adjusted) shares of common
stock no later than two years from the date of the
agreement.
No equipment was procured from either corporation, no shares
of common stock have been issued nor has the Company
returned the $100,000 payment to either corporation.
The Company has not determined whether either
obligation is currently enforceable under French law.
The Company is unaware of any request for payment or
for the issuance of the Company's shares from August 3,
1987 to date.
(9) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Consulting fees are paid to certain shareholders and
officers.
F-68
<PAGE>
ANNEX I
PLAN AND AGREEMENT OF MERGER
This PLAN AND AGREEMENT OF MERGER ("Agreement") is made as of the 21st day
of December, 1995, by and among ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION, a Nevada
corporation formed in April 1995 ("EchoStar"), DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION, a Colorado corporation ("DBSC"), and DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION, A Delaware corporation ("DBSD").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, DBSD and EchoStar Communications Corporation, a Nevada Corporation
formed in December 1993 ("Old EchoStar"), have entered into a Stock Purchase
Agreement, dated November 15, 1994 (the "Purchase Agreement"), pursuant to which
EchoStar purchased certain shares of DBSD's Common Stock, $0.01 par value (the
"DBSD Shares"), for the consideration set forth in the Purchase Agreement, and
was granted certain other rights as more particularly set forth therein;
WHEREAS, the Purchase Agreement contemplates the potential execution by Old
EchoStar, DBSD and DBSC or a plan and agreement of merger at the option of the
parties as provided in the Purchase Agreement;
WHEREAS, Old EchoStar has assigned its right to enter into this Agreement to
EchoStar;
WHEREAS, the parties hereto intend the Merger to constitute and do hereby
adopt this Agreement as a plan of reorganization pursuant to Section
368(a)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; and
WHEREAS, the Boards of Directors of DBSD, EchoStar and DBSC, deeming it
advisable for the mutual benefit of EchoStar, DBSC, DBSD and their respective
shareholders that DBSD merge with DBSC (the "Merger"), have approved this Plan
and Agreement of Merger under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.
AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, agreements,
representations and warranties herein contained, the parties hereto agree that
DBSD and DBSC shall be merged and that the terms and conditions of the Merger
and the mode of carrying the same into effect shall be as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
1.1 DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Agreement, and except as otherwise
expressly provided, or unless the context otherwise requires, the following
terms shall have the meanings set forth below:
"Additional Equity Rights" shall mean any valid equity rights not disclosed
to EchoStar on the date of the Purchase Agreement pursuant to Schedule 5.2 of
the Purchase Agreement.
"Adverse Notice" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 8.3.2
herein.
"Affiliate" means as to any particular Person, any other Person or entity
that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is
controlled by, or is under common control with such particular Person.
"Agreement" means this Agreement.
"Appraisal Laws" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 2.5.1
herein.
A-1
<PAGE>
"Cash Value" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 2.3.2 herein.
"Challenge" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.16.6 herein.
"DBSD Due Diligence" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.20
herein.
"DBSD Financial Statements" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
4.15.1 herein.
"DBSD Liabilities" has the meaning set forth in Subsection 6.3.2 hereof.
"DBSD Option" means the option granted by DBSD to EchoStar to acquire an
additional 333,333, or 11.3% of the, DBSD Shares.
"DBSD's Business" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.8 herein.
"DBS Rights" means the construction permits and related rights with respect
to eleven (11) frequencies at an eastern, and eleven (11) frequencies at a
western, orbital location, together with any further permits or rights requested
or granted to DBSD.
"DBSD Shares" has the meaning set forth in the RECITALS above.
"DBSD Stock Certificates" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection
2.3.4 herein.
"Defaulting Party" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12.3 herein.
"Deemed Acceleration" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.7
herein.
"DGCL" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 herein.
"Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation" shall have the meaning set forth
in Subsection 2.1.1 herein.
"Dissenting Shares" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 2.5.1
herein.
"Due Diligence" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.20 herein.
"EchoStar" shall mean, unless otherwise stated herein or the context
otherwise requires, EchoStar and Old EchoStar.
"EchoStar Common Stock" means the Class A Common Stock of EchoStar
Communications Corporation, a Nevada corporation formed in April 1995, $0.01 par
value.
"EchoStar Financials" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 5.6.1
herein.
"Effective Time of the Merger" has the meaning specified in Subsection 2.2.6
hereof.
"Entitle Acceleration" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.7
herein.
"Existing Equity Rights" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.4.2
herein.
"FCC" means the Federal Communications Commission and its staff, and
includes any governmental body or agency succeeding to the functions thereof.
"FCC Approval" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 8.4.1 herein.
"GAAP" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.15.1 herein.
"Governing Documents" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.12
herein.
"Indenture" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7.3 herein.
"Merger Closing" or "Merger Closing Date" have the meanings specified in
Article X herein.
"Merger Price" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 2.3.2 herein.
"Negotiations" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12.6 herein.
"Nondefaulting Party" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12.3
herein.
A-2
<PAGE>
"Outstanding Common Shares" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.2
herein.
"Permitted Liabilities" shall mean the reasonable and prudent expenses
incurred by DBSD in connection with the transactions contemplated by the
Purchase Agreement and in the ordinary course of DBSD's pursuit of a successful
DBS business, and as required pursuant to the Satellite Contract, or otherwise
necessary to maintain the DBS Rights.
"Person" means an individual, a partnership, a corporation, a limited
liability company, an association, a trust, an organization, a governmental
entity or any department, agency or political subdivision thereof, or any other
legal entity.
"Purchase Agreement" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 8.1 herein.
"Purchase Closing" shall mean the closing of the purchase by EchoStar of
DBSD Shares pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.
"Registration Statement" shall have the meaning set forth in 6.12 herein.
"Satellite Contract" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 6.4.9
herein.
"SEC" means the Securities and Exchange Commission and includes any
governmental body or agency succeeding to the functions thereof.
"Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any
similar federal law then in force.
"Securities Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, or any similar federal law then in force.
"Senior Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7.3 herein.
"Share Value" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 2.3.2 herein.
"Subsidiaries" means, with respect to any Person, any corporation,
partnership, association or other business entity of which (i) if a corporation,
a majority of the total voting power of shares of stock entitled (without regard
to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors,
managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by that Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that
Person or a combination thereof, or (ii) if a partnership, association or other
business entity, a majority of the partnership of other similar ownership
interest thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by
any Person or one or more Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof.
For purposes hereof, a Person or Persons shall be deemed to have a majority
ownership interest in a partnership, association or other business entity if
such Person or Persons shall be allocated a majority of partnership, association
or other business entity gains or losses and shall be or control the managing
director or general partner of such partnership, association or other business
entity.
"Tax Liabilities" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.17 herein.
"Transfer" shall have the meaning set forth in Subsection 6.4.3 herein.
1.1.1 In addition, other capitalized words and phrases used in this
Agreement shall have the meanings ascribed herein.
ARTICLE II
MERGER
2.1 ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN. Upon performance of all the covenants and
obligations of the parties contained herein required to be accomplished by the
Merger Closing and upon fulfillment (or waiver) of all the conditions to the
obligations of the parties contained herein required to be accomplished by
A-3
<PAGE>
the Merger Closing, at the Effective Time of the Merger and pursuant to the
Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL") and the Colorado Business
Corporation Act (the "CBA"), the following shall occur:
2.1.1 DBSD shall be merged with and into DBSC, which shall be the
Surviving Corporation (the "Surviving Corporation"). The separate existence and
corporate organization of DBSD shall cease at the Effective Time of the Merger,
and thereupon, DBSD and DBSC shall be a single corporation, the name of which
shall be "Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation." DBSC, as the Surviving
Corporation, shall succeed, insofar as permitted by law to all of the rights,
assets, liabilities and obligations of DBSD in accordance with the CBA.
2.2.2 The Certificate of Incorporation of DBSC shall be and remain
the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation until amended as
provided by law.
2.2.3 The By-Laws of DBSC shall become the By-Laws of the Surviving
Corporation until amended as provided by law.
2.2.4 Until changed in accordance with the Certificate of
Incorporation and By-Laws of the Surviving Corporation, the directors of DBSC
immediately prior to the Effective Time of the Merger shall become the directors
of the Surviving Corporation.
2.2.5 Until changed in accordance with the Certificate of
Incorporation and By-Laws of the Surviving Corporation, the officers of DBSC
immediately prior to the Effective Time of the Merger shall become the officers
of the Surviving Corporation.
2.2.6 As soon as practicable after the terms and conditions of this
Agreement have been satisfied, and upon consummation of the closing referred to
in Article XI hereof (the "Merger Closing"), a Certificate of Merger and
Articles of Merger, consistent with this Agreement, in the form prescribed by,
and properly executed in accordance with, the DGCL and the CBA, respectively, in
form and substance satisfactory to counsel for the parties hereto and providing
for immediate effectiveness of the Merger, shall be filed with the Secretaries
of State of the States of Delaware and Colorado, respectively. The Merger shall
become effective when the Certificate of Merger and the Articles of Merger are
deemed filed with both such Secretaries of State pursuant to the DGCL and the
CBA, as the case may be. The date and time when the Merger shall become
effective is referred to in this Agreement as the "Effective Time of the
Merger."
2.3 CANCELLATION OR CONVERSION OF DBSD SHARES. As of the Effective Time of
the Merger, by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of any
shareholder:
2.3.1 Any DBSD Shares held in the treasury of DBSD, and any DBSD
Shares issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time of the
Merger which are owned by EchoStar or DBSC, shall be cancelled and retired. No
cash, securities or other consideration shall be paid or delivered in exchange
for such DBSD Shares under this Agreement.
2.3.2 Except with regard to DBSD Shares cancelled pursuant to
Subsection 2.3.1 hereof, and subject to Subsection 2.3.3 below, at the Effective
Time of the Merger, all DBSD Shares held by shareholders of DBSD other than
EchoStar shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of
DBSD, be converted into and exchanged for: (i) .67417 EchoStar Shares (the
"Share Value"); or (ii) $7.99 in cash (the "Cash Value") (the Share Value and
the Cash Value being hereafter jointly referred to as the "Merger Price"). At
the time of the vote by DBSD shareholders on the Merger, each DBSD shareholder
in its sole discretion shall determine the portion of their DBSD Shares to be
exchanged for EchoStar Shares, and the portion of their DBSD Shares to be
exchanged for cash, provided that in the event the number of DBSD Shares to be
exchanged for cash, together with the number of DBSD Shares with respect to
which appraisal rights under Delaware law have been reserved, would exceed 50%
of the DBSD Shares held by shareholders other than EchoStar, the portion of the
DBSD Shares to be exchanged for cash, of each shareholder who elects to take a
combination of EchoStar Shares and cash, shall be reduced by the same percentage
for each such
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DBSD shareholder (i.e., for example, the number of DBSD Shares each such
shareholder may exchange for cash would each be reduced by 5%) and exchanged for
EchoStar Shares instead if numerically possible, so that the total number of
DBSD Shares exchanged for cash does not exceed 50%. Any DBSD Shareholder who
fails to make an election shall receive EchoStar Shares, not cash, for their
DBSD Shares. The number of EchoStar Shares set forth in clause (i) above shall
be adjusted, if at all, according to the provisions set forth in Section 2.4
below, and shall be appropriately adjusted to reflect any stock split, stock
dividend, combination or other similar transaction, involving EchoStar.
2.3.3 In lieu of the issuance or recognition of fractional EchoStar
Shares, cash equal to the value of such fractional shares shall be paid to each
holder of DBSD Shares electing to receive EchoStar Shares pursuant to Subsection
2.3.2 hereof.
2.3.4 After the Effective Time of the Merger, each holder of an
outstanding certificate or certificates theretofore representing DBSD Shares
converted into EchoStar Shares or cash pursuant to Subsection 2.3.2 hereof (the
"DBSD Stock Certificates"), upon surrender thereof to EchoStar or such other
entity as shall, prior to the Merger Closing, be designated by DBSD (and as
shall be reasonably acceptable to EchoStar) as exchange agent (the "Exchange
Agent"), shall be entitled to receive either: (i) the Cash Value; or (ii) a
Stock Certificate representing the number of EchoStar Shares into which the DBSD
Shares theretofore represented by such surrendered DBSD Stock Certificates shall
have been converted pursuant to Subsection 2.3.2 hereof. Until so surrendered,
each DBSD Stock Certificate shall be deemed for all purposes, other than as
provided below with respect to the payment of dividends or other distributions,
if any, in respect of EchoStar Shares, to represent the number of EchoStar
Shares into which the DBSD Shares theretofore represented thereby shall have
been converted, or the Cash Value, as the case may be. Until so surrendered,
EchoStar may, at its option, refuse to pay: (y) any dividend or other
distribution with respect to EchoStar Shares; or (z) any interest with respect
to the Cash Value, payable to such shareholders of DBSD; provided, however, that
upon surrender and exchange of such DBSD Stock Certificates there shall be paid
to DBSD's shareholders the amount, without interest, of dividends and other
distributions with respect to EchoStar Shares, if any, which have become payable
with respect to the EchoStar Shares and which have not previously been paid.
Whether or not a DBSD Stock Certificate is surrendered, from and after the
Effective Time of the Merger, such DBSD Stock Certificates shall under no
circumstances evidence, represent or otherwise constitute any stock or other
interest whatsoever in DBSC, the Surviving Corporation or any other Person, firm
or corporation other than EchoStar or its successors.
In the event any DBSD Stock Certificate shall have been lost, stolen or
destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming
such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and subject to such other
conditions as the Board of Directors of EchoStar may impose, EchoStar shall
issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the Merger
Price deliverable in respect thereof as determined in accordance with Section
2.3.2. When authorizing such issue of the Merger Price in exchange therefor, the
Board of Directors of EchoStar may, in its discretion and as a condition
precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or
destroyed Certificate to give EchoStar a bond or other surety in such sum as
EchoStar may reasonably direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made
against EchoStar with respect to the Certificates alleged to have been lost,
stolen or destroyed.
2.4 ADJUSTMENT TO THE SHARE VALUE OR CASH VALUE. The Share Value or Cash
Value, as the case may be, shall be appropriately adjusted in the event that:
(i) on the Merger Closing Date DBSD Liabilities exceed the Permitted
Liabilities, but EchoStar desires to proceed with the Merger Closing
notwithstanding; (ii) any liabilities are asserted against DBSD which are
alleged to have arisen on or before March 31, 1994, but which are not shown in
the DBSD Financial Statements; or (iii) any Additional Equity Rights are
asserted. In the event an adjustment is necessary as a result of Subsection
2.4(i) or (ii) above, the Share Value or the Cash Value, as applicable, shall be
reduced by the percentage obtained from the quotient of "x"/$7,785,184, where
"x" is equal to the amount by which
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DBSD Liabilities exceed Permitted Liabilities, plus the amount (not to exceed
$5,000,000) of any liabilities contemplated by Subsection 4.2(ii) above. In the
event that liabilities contemplated by Subsection 4.2(ii) above exceed
$7,000,000, EchoStar may at its option either consummate the Merger and assume
those liabilities, or terminate this Agreement. In the event EchoStar elects to
terminate this Agreement as a result, then the DBSD Option shall terminate on
the close of business on the 90th day following the date of such termination. In
the event an adjustment is necessary as the result of Subsection 2.4(iii) above,
the Share Value or the Cash Value, as applicable, shall be reduced by the
percentage obtained from the quotient of "x"/"y" where "x" is the total number
of DBSD Shares which would be issued pursuant to all Additional Equity Rights in
the aggregate, if all such Additional Equity Rights were determined to be valid,
and "y" is the total number of DBSD Shares outstanding excluding DBSD Shares
held by EchoStar or its Affiliates. DBSD shall have the right to contest any
Additional Equity Rights and may incur reasonable expenses in that regard. In
the event any such Additional Equity Rights are being contested by DBSD on the
Merger Closing, EchoStar shall withhold the portion of the Merger Price which
would be allocable to holders of the Additional Equity Rights being contested.
To the extent the contested Additional Equity Rights are ultimately determined
to be invalid, EchoStar shall promptly release the portion of the Merger Price
withheld to the former DBSD shareholders entitled to receipt thereof. Following
Merger Closing, DBSD shall be required to continue to contest those Additional
Equity Rights only to the extent the costs and expenses of doing so are
reasonable.
2.5 DISSENTERS' RIGHTS.
2.5.1 The DBSD Shares held by those shareholders of DBSD who have
timely and properly exercised their dissenters' rights in accordance with the
provisions of the DGCL applicable to dissenters' rights (the "Appraisal Laws")
are referred to herein as "Dissenting Shares." Each Dissenting Share, the holder
of which, as of the Effective Time of the Merger, has not effectively withdrawn
or lost his dissenters' rights under the Appraisal Laws, shall not be converted
into or represent a right to receive EchoStar Shares or the Cash Value, as the
case may be, in connection with the Merger, but the holder thereof shall be
entitled only to such rights as are granted by the Appraisal Laws. Each holder
of Dissenting Shares who becomes entitled to cash pursuant to the provisions of
the Appraisal Laws shall receive payment therefor from the Surviving Corporation
from funds provided by EchoStar. EchoStar shall also be obligated to pay the
costs and expenses of both DBSD and EchoStar in connection with the exercise of
any appraisal rights, but not the costs of any dissenting DBSD shareholder,
unless required to do so by the Appraisal Laws. If any holder of Dissenting
Shares shall effectively withdraw or lose his dissenters' rights under the
Appraisal Laws, such Dissenting Shares shall be converted into the right to
receive cash in accordance with the Cash Value as set forth in Subsection 2.3.2
hereof.
2.5.2 Immediately following the expiration of the time for Dissenting
Shares to be paid pursuant to the Appraisal Laws, EchoStar shall make available,
by delivery to the Exchange Agent, Stock Certificates for such number of
EchoStar Shares as shall be required for exchange in accordance with this
Agreement and the Cash Value.
2.6 FURTHER ASSURANCES. From time to time, on and after the Effective Time
of the Merger, as and when requested by EchoStar or its successors or assigns,
the proper officers and directors of DBSD immediately before the Effective Date
of the Merger, all of whom shall submit their resignations to be effective at
the Effective Time of the Merger, shall, at EchoStar's expense and for and on
behalf and in the name of DBSD or otherwise, take or cause to be taken such
further or other actions as EchoStar or their respective successors or assigns
may deem necessary or desirable in order to confirm or record or otherwise
transfer to the Surviving Corporation title to and possession of all the
properties, rights, privileges, powers, franchises and immunities of DBSD and
otherwise to carry out fully the provisions and purposes of this Agreement.
2.7 INTENTION. The parties agree and acknowledge that prior to receipt, if
ever requested, of FCC Approval for a transfer of control of DBSD to EchoStar:
(i) it is not the intent of the parties to
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affect a transfer of control of DBSD to EchoStar, nor shall EchoStar assert
control over DBSD; and (ii) DBSD, acting through its Board of Directors, shall
retain sole and exclusive responsibility for and authority over, by example and
not by limitation, its corporate policy and actions, day to day operations,
finances, personnel policy and actions, FCC authorizations and the privileges
and obligations it has as a DBS conditional permittee.
2.8 RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER.
2.8.1 Each DBSD shareholder electing to receive EchoStar Shares in
connection with the Merger shall not offer, sell, contract to sell, grant any
option to purchase, pledge or otherwise dispose of, transfer or hypothecate any
of its EchoStar Shares, or in any other manner transfer all or a portion of the
economic consequences associated with ownership of the EchoStar Shares until
ninety (90) days following the Effective Time of the Merger (the "Lock Up" and
the "Lock Up Period"). Each certificate for EchoStar Shares issued in the Merger
shall contain a legend restricting the transfer of the EchoStar Shares except in
compliance with this Section 2.8.1.
2.8.2 If just prior to the Effective Time of the Merger, EchoStar is
unable to make the representations referenced in Section 5.8 below, and as a
result of this and no other significant factors, tax counsel in connection with
the Merger is unable to provide assurance that the Merger will qualify for
tax-free status, then the Lock Up will terminate on that date with respect to
50% of the EchoStar Shares held by each shareholder, but shall continue with
respect to the remainder of the EchoStar Shares for the remainder of the Lock Up
Period. As used in this Section 2.8.2, tax counsel shall mean the law firm of
Sullivan & Worcester, except that if EchoStar disagrees with the opinion of
Sullivan & Worcester, EchoStar shall be free to engage counsel reasonably
acceptable to DBSD, at EchoStar's expense, and if that counsel renders an
opinion that would not trigger partial or full release of the Lock Up, then the
Lock Up shall not terminate.
ARTICLE III
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY DELETED.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF DBSD
DBSD hereby represents and warrants to EchoStar and DBSC as follows, which
representations and warranties shall be deemed to have been made on the date
hereof and at the Effective Time of the Merger:
4.1 ORGANIZATION. DBSD is a corporation, duly organized, validly existing,
and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware, and has all the
requisite corporate power and authority to own its property and conduct the
business in which it is engaged. Attached as Schedule 4.1 are true and complete
copies of DBSD's Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws as amended to the date
hereof.
4.2 CAPITALIZATION. DBSD is authorized to issue three million (3,000,000)
DBSD Shares and no other capital stock of any kind or class. As of the date
hereof, there are 1,618,138 DBSD Shares issued and outstanding (the "Outstanding
Common Shares"). DBSD does not have any other shares of capital stock issued and
outstanding other than the Outstanding Common Shares. All of the Outstanding
Common Shares are validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable. To the best of
DBSD's knowledge, following diligent investigation, other than the DBSD Option,
DBSD does not have outstanding any options or warrants to purchase, or contracts
to issue, or contracts or any other rights entitling anyone to acquire, DBSD
Shares, or securities convertible into such DBSD Shares, other than as set forth
in Schedule 4.2 attached hereto. There are no Existing Equity Issuances pending
as of the date of this Agreement.
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4.3 SUBSIDIARIES. DBSD has no Subsidiaries or equity interest in any
corporation, partnership or other entity.
4.4 QUALIFICATION. DBSD is not qualified as a foreign corporation in any
jurisdiction other than as set forth in Schedule 4.4 attached hereto. The nature
of the business of DBSD does not make qualification of it as a foreign
corporation necessary under the laws of any jurisdiction other than as set forth
in Schedule 4.4 which are the only jurisdictions in which the nature of its
business requires qualification.
4.5 OWNED REAL ESTATE. DBSD does not have title to any real estate.
4.6 LEASED REAL ESTATE. DBSD does not lease any real estate other than as
set forth in Schedule 4.6.
4.7 LEASED TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY. DBSD does not lease any personal
property other than as set forth in Schedule 4.7.
4.8 ALL CONTRACTS. Schedule 4.8 attached hereto lists all contracts or
other obligations to which DBSD is a party or by which it is bound, which
constitute all of the contracts and other obligations to which DBSD is a party
or by which it is bound except to the extent any such contract or obligation is
clearly not material to DBSD's business operations, governance, or prospects
(collectively "DBSD's Business"). DBSD is not in default under any of such
contracts, obligations or commitments, is not aware of any facts which, with
notice and/or the passage of time, would constitute such a default and is not
aware of any default by any party thereto except: (i) for such defaults as do
not and will not have in the aggregate any material adverse effect on DBSD's
Business, or the ability of DBSD to perform any of its obligations under this
Agreement or limit in any way the benefits EchoStar expects to obtain pursuant
to this Agreement, or (ii) as limited in Schedule 4.8. No consent is required
under the contracts, obligations and commitments referred to in this Section 4.8
in connection with the Merger, other than as set forth in Schedule 4.8. To the
extent Schedule 4.8 overlaps with matters required by other Schedules to this
Agreement, DBSD shall list the matter on each applicable Schedule.
4.9 TRANSACTIONS WITH DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES AND AFFILIATES. Since
August 3, 1987 except as set forth in Schedule 4.9 attached hereto, there have
been no transactions between DBSD and any director, officer, employee of
affiliate (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act) of DBSD. Since
August 3, 1987 none of the officers, directors, employees or affiliates of DBSD,
or any member of the immediate family of any such persons, has been a director
or officer of, or has had a material interest in, any firm, corporation,
association or business enterprise which during such period has been a supplier,
customer or sales agent of DBSD or has completed to any extent with DBSD, except
as otherwise set forth in Schedule 4.9.
4.10 LITIGATION. Other than as set forth in Schedule 4.10, there are no
legal, administrative, arbitration or other proceedings or claims pending or, to
the best of DBSD's knowledge, threatened against DBSD, nor is DBSD subject to
any existing judgment, nor has DBSD received any inquiry from an agency of the
Federal or of any state or local government regarding the transactions
contemplated hereby, or regarding any violation or possible violation of any
law, regulation or ordinance affecting its business or assets.
4.11 LICENSES AND PERMITS. Other than: (i) as set forth in Schedule 4.11;
(ii) the DBS Rights; and (iii) DBSD's foreign qualification to do business in
the District of Columbia, DBSD has no other licenses, permits, orders, approvals
or authorizations of any nature, and to DBSD's knowledge, no such licenses,
permits, orders, approvals, or authorizations of any nature are required for
DBSD's current business, except to the extent any such failures are clearly not
material to DBSD's Business.
4.12 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO AGREEMENT; ENFORCEABILITY. The execution,
delivery and performance of this Agreement are within the legal capacity and
power of DBSD; have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action on
the part of DBSD; require the approval or consent of no other Persons, entities
or agencies (except for: (i) FCC notifications, consents and approvals; and (ii)
approval of the
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shareholders of DBSD); and will neither violate nor constitute a default under,
nor create a lien or breach under, nor result in the acceleration of performance
or right to accelerate a lien or breach under, nor result in the acceleration of
performance or right to accelerate performance under (whether or not after
giving of notice or lapse of time or both), the terms of the Certificate of
Incorporation or By-Laws of DBSD or of any agreement, obligation or commitment
binding upon DBSD (the "Governing Documents") except: (i) as set forth in
Schedule 4.12; or (ii) to the extent any such argument, obligation, commitment,
or the acceleration or breach thereof, is clearly not material to DBSD's
Business. This Agreement is a legal, valid and binding obligation of DBSD
enforceable against DBSD in accordance with its terms, except insofar as the
enforcement thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or
similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors rights generally and subject
to equitable principles limiting the availability of equitable remedies, and
except insofar as the enforcement thereof may be limited by the rules,
regulations or orders of the FCC.
4.13 COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. To the best of DBSD's knowledge,
DBSD is in compliance in all material respects with all Federal, state, county
and municipal laws, ordinances, regulations, rules, reporting requirements,
judgments, orders, decrees and requirements of common law applicable to the
conduct and business of DBSD (together, the "General Laws") except to the extent
any such violation is clearly not material to DBSD's Business.
4.14 EMPLOYMENT MATTERS.
4.14.1 No employee of DBSD has a written or oral agreement (or an
assurance pursuant to any employee manual) which would preclude DBSD from
terminating such employee's employment at any time with no obligation to DBSD to
make any payment except wages to the date of termination. DBSD has not engaged
in any discriminatory hiring or employment practices nor have any employment
discrimination complaints been filed against DBSD with any state or Federal
agency. DBSD has not been threatened by any former employee with any suit
alleging wrongful termination.
4.14.2 To the best of DBSD's knowledge there is no arrangements or
contracts with any present or former director, officer, employee or independent
contractor of DBSD, or any other Person, that require any deferred compensation,
retirement or welfare benefits to be paid or provided following termination of
services, except as set forth on Schedule 4.14.2.
4.15 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
4.15.1 The financial statements of DBSD provided to EchoStar for the
fiscal year ended March 31, 1995, a copy of which are attached hereto as Exhibit
D (the "DBSD Financial Statements"), fairly represent the financial position of
DBSD and the results of its operations at the dates and for the periods to which
they apply. To the best of DBSD's knowledge, following diligent investigation,
the DBSD Financial Statements reflect all Existing Equity Rights, as such term
is defined in Subsection 6.4.2 below. Such DBSD Financial Statements have been
prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, applied on
a consistent basis throughout the periods involved ("GAAP") except as
specifically noted therein.
4.15.2 The DBSD Financial Statements reflect substantially all of the
liabilities and obligations (whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise)
of DBSD. Other than the $300,000 of liabilities referenced in Subsection 5.15.2
of the Purchase Agreement, since the date of the DBSD Financial Statements, DBSD
has incurred no liabilities (whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise)
other than Permitted Liabilities.
4.16 BUSINESS CHANGES. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.16 attached
hereto, since the date of the DBSD Financial Statements there has not been:
4.16.1 any adverse changes in the working capital, financial
condition, assets, liabilities, or in the business or prospects of DBSD (except
to the extent such adverse change is clearly not
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material to DBSD's Business and except for: (i) the $300,000 of liabilities
referenced in Subsection 5.15.2 of the Purchase Agreement; and (ii) Permitted
Liabilities incurred subsequent to the Purchase Closing and disclosed in a
permitted amendment to Schedule 5.16 to the Purchase Agreement;
4.16.2 any damage, destruction or loss affecting the business of DBSD
(except to the extent clearly not material to DBSD's Business);
4.16.3 any amendment or termination of any contract, lease or license
to which DBSD is a party or by which it is, or may be bound (except to the
extent clearly not material to DBSD's Business);
4.16.4 any dividend or distribution declared, set aside or paid in
respect of the DBSD Shares;
4.16.5 any sale or other disposition of assets of DBSD having a value
in excess of $1,000; or
4.16.6 any actual or threatened challenge to the DBS Rights (a
"Challenge").
4.17 TAXES. As of the date of this Agreement, all tax and information
returns required to have been filed by DBSD have been filed with the appropriate
authority; and all Federal, state and local taxes (including without limitation
income, franchise, property, sales, use, value added, withholding, excise,
capital or other tax liabilities), charges, assessments, penalties and interest
of DBSD (collectively, the "Tax Liabilities") required to be paid on or before
the date of this Agreement were paid or have been accrued on DBSD's books. Such
returns were correct in all material respects as filed. As of the date of this
Agreement, no assessments or additional Tax Liabilities have been proposed or
threatened against DBSD or any of its assets, and DBSD has not executed any
waiver of the statute of limitations on the assessments or collection of any Tax
Liabilities. The representations above shall continue to be true and complete on
the date of consummation of the Merger, except as to those Tax Liabilities which
are currently being contested in good faith and with respect to which adequate
provision for the payment thereof has been reserved and set aside by DBSD. The
DBSD Financial Statements include adequate provision for Tax Liabilities
incurred or accrued as of the date thereof. True and complete copies of DBSD's
most recent federal, state and local tax returns have delivered previously by
DBSD to EchoStar.
4.17.1 Since August 3, 1987, no federal tax returns of DBSD have ever
been audited or examined by the Internal Revenue Service. There are no pending
investigations of DBSD or its tax returns by any Federal, state or local taxing
authority and there are no Federal, state or local tax liens upon any of DBSD's
assets.
4.17.2 DBSD and EchoStar intend the Merger to constitute a plan of
reorganization pursuant to Section 368(a)1(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended, provided, however, that notwithstanding this statement of
intent and the similar statement in the third Recital of this Agreement, DBSD
has concluded that the Merger, and the transactions contemplated hereby, as
currently structured and under existing tax law, will provide the tax treatment
to DBSD and its shareholders desired by them, and that regardless of the actual
tax outcome of the transactions, DBSD shall not raise such tax treatment as an
impediment to the Merger.
4.18 VALID ISSUANCE OF DBSD SHARES. The Outstanding Common Stock is all
duly and validly authorized and issued, fully paid and nonassessable. All
Outstanding Common Stock issued since August 3, 1987 has been issued in
compliance with all applicable Federal and state securities laws. With respect
to Outstanding Common Stock issued prior to August 3, 1987, nothing has come to
the attention of DBSD which would lead it to believe that any such stock was
issued in violation of any applicable Federal or state securities laws. The
Option Shares issuable upon exercise of the DBSD Option have been duly and
validly reserved for issuance and, upon issuance in accordance with the terms of
the DBSD Option pursuant to Section 2.2 of the Purchase Agreement, shall be duly
and
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validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, and issued in compliance with all
applicable Federal and state securities laws. Such DBSD Option Shares are not
subject to any preemptive rights of any Person.
4.19 BROKERAGES. DBSD has not engaged any broker or finder to render
services in connection with this Agreement. No fee or other amount is payable by
DBSD with respect to such type of services. A list of all brokers and finders
DBSD has retained since August 3, 1987, together with a copy of each such
agreement (or if oral a summary of all material terms thereof), is attached as
Schedule 4.19. With respect to any broker, finders' or similar contracts,
regardless of when entered into, nothing has come to the attention of DBSD which
would lead it to believe that any fee would be payable by DBSD at any time in
the future in connection with any possible transaction unless, at the request of
DBSD, any such broker or finder brings a Person to the attention of DBSD, with
which Person DBSD ultimately consummates an agreement.
4.20 DBS LICENSES. DBSD has been awarded by the FCC a conditional
construction permit and specific orbital slot assignments with respect to eleven
(11) DBS frequencies located at 61.5 degrees West Longitude, and eleven (11) DBS
frequencies located at 175 degrees West Longitude. Other than those filed by
Dominion Video Services, Inc. ("DVS") and others as may be set forth in Schedule
4.20, there are no Challenges to the DBS Rights and DBSD reasonably believes
that such Challenges will not be successful. As of the date hereof, DBSD is in
full compliance with all FCC "due diligence" requirements (hereinafter, "DBSD
Due Diligence") to the best of its knowledge.
4.21 PENDING OR CONTEMPLATED TRANSACTIONS. DBSD is not a party to any
agreement, express or implied, with any party, other than EchoStar, regarding a
transaction involving the DBS Rights, or otherwise related to the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
4.22 SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. Pursuant to applicable law, and the Governing
Documents: (i) approval of the Merger by fifty percent (50%), plus one DBSD
Share, of the total Outstanding Common Stock shall be sufficient to approve the
Merger; and (ii) neither EchoStar nor Harley Radin (DBSD's Chairman) shall be
prohibited from voting any of their DBSD Shares in favor of the Merger.
4.23 BOARD APPROVAL. The Board of DBSD has voted to approve all of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including but not limited to the
recommendation that DBSD's shareholders vote to approve the Merger, and that the
DBSD Board shall recommend that DBSD's shareholders approve the Merger except in
the circumstances specified in Section 6.8 below. DBSD shall not assert that an
appraisal or valuation or either DBSD or EchoStar is required, or request any
appraisal or valuation, in connection with Board approval of the Merger, the
solicitation of its shareholders or otherwise, unless required by Federal or
state securities laws.
4.24 RELIANCE. In determining whether to enter into this Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby, DBSD has not relied upon any representations
or warranties or other information (whether oral or written) furnished by
EchoStar other than as set forth in, or scheduled pursuant to, this Agreement or
the Purchase Agreement.
4.25 FULL DISCLOSURE. No representation or warranty made by DBSD in this
Agreement, no certification furnished or to be furnished to EchoStar pursuant to
this Agreement, and no document delivered by DBSD to EchoStar or its counsel
hereunder, contains or will contain any untrue statement of a material fact or
omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements
contained herein or therein not misleading.
DBSD shall be permitted to amend any Schedule provided pursuant to this
Article IV at any time to reflect action taken by DBSD as permitted by this
Agreement or as necessary to reflect any subsequent Challenges in Schedule 4.20;
provided that: (i) DBSD shall provide such revised Schedule to EchoStar within
five (5) business days of the event which results in the necessity of an update;
and (ii) this provision shall only apply prospectively (i.e., it shall not be
construed as allowing DBSD to cure a representation or schedule which was false,
incomplete or inaccurate at the time it was made or provided, through a
subsequent amendment thereto).
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ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF ECHOSTAR AND DBSC
EchoStar and DBSC hereby represent and warrant to DBSD as follows, which
representations and warranties shall be deemed to have been made on the date
hereof and as of the Effective Time of the Merger:
5.1 ORGANIZATION. EchoStar and DBSC are each corporations duly organized,
validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the States of Nevada
and Colorado, respectively, and have all requisite corporate power and authority
to own their property and conduct the business in which each is engaged.
Attached as Schedule 5.1.1 are true and complete copies of EchoStar's and DBSC's
Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws as amended to the date hereof.
5.2 CAPITALIZATION. All outstanding shares of EchoStar are validly issued,
fully paid and non-assessable.
5.3 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO AGREEMENT; ENFORCEMENT. The execution, delivery
and performance of this Agreement is within the legal capacity and power of
EchoStar and DBSC; have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action
on the part of EchoStar and DBSC; require the approval or consent of no persons,
entities or agencies, other than such approval required from the FCC and as
shown on Schedule 5.3.1 attached hereto, and will neither violate nor constitute
a default under, nor create a lien or breach under, nor result in the
acceleration of performance or right to accelerate performance under (whether or
not after the giving of notice or lapse of time or both), the terms of the
Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of EchoStar or DBSC or of any material
agreement, obligation or commitment binding upon EchoStar (other than agreements
as to which appropriate consents, if obtained, shall avoid any defaults, which
consents have been, or will be, obtained). This Agreement is a legal, valid and
binding obligation of EchoStar and DBSC enforceable against EchoStar and DBSC in
accordance with its terms, except insofar as the enforcement thereof may be
limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or similar laws affecting the
enforcement of creditors rights generally and subject to equitable principles
limiting the availability of equitable remedies, and except insofar as the
enforcement thereof may be limited by the rules, regulations or orders of the
FCC.
5.4 INAPPLICABILITY OF SPECIFIED STATUTES. EchoStar is not a "holding
company," or a "subsidiary company" or an "affiliate" of a "holding company," as
such terms are defined in the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as
amended, or an "investment company" or a company controlled by or acting on
behalf of an "investment company," required to be registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
5.5 ISSUANCE OF SHARES. EchoStar has reserved for issuance the EchoStar
Shares to be issued pursuant to this Agreement, and upon issuance in accordance
with the terms hereof the EchoStar Shares will be duly and validly issued, fully
paid and nonassessable, and issued in compliance with all applicable federal and
state securities laws. Such EchoStar Shares are not subject to the preemptive
rights of any Person.
5.6 FULL DISCLOSURE. No representation or warranty made by EchoStar in
this Agreement, no certification furnished or to be furnished by EchoStar or
DBSD pursuant to this Agreement, and no document delivered by EchoStar to DBSD
or its counsel hereunder, contains or will contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements contained herein or therein not misleading, as of the date made
furnished or delivered.
5.7 NO INDENTURE DEFAULTS. There are no defaults under the Indenture
pursuant to which EchoStar issued its Senior Discount Notes dated May 31, 1994
(the "Indenture" and the "Senior Notes") which entitle the holders of the Senior
Notes (the "Holders") to accelerate (as defined in the Indenture) the Senior
Notes, or any default EchoStar has notified the Holders of, and which would
entitle the Holders to declare a default and accelerate the Senior Notes (in
either event "Entitle
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Acceleration"). If the Senior Notes have been retired as of any date this
representation is required to be made, EchoStar represents and warrants that if
the Senior Notes were still outstanding there would be no defaults which Entitle
Acceleration ("Deemed Acceleration").
5.8 TAX REPRESENTATIONS. In addition to the representations and warranties
contained in this Article V, EchoStar shall make the representations and
warranties set forth in Schedule 5.8 attached hereto as of the date of this
Agreement only, which representations and warranties shall be incorporated
herein, and made a part hereof, by this reference.
EchoStar shall be permitted to amend any Schedule provided pursuant to this
Article V at any time to reflect action taken by EchoStar as permitted by this
Agreement; provided that: (i) EchoStar shall provide such revised Schedule to
DBSD within five (5) business days of the event which results in the necessity
of an update; and (ii) this provision shall only apply prospectively (i.e., it
shall not be construed as allowing EchoStar to cure a representation or schedule
which was false, incomplete or inaccurate at the time it was made or provided,
through a subsequent amendment thereto).
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS OF DBSD
6.1 REGULAR COURSE OF BUSINESS. Through to the Effective Time of the
Merger DBSD shall carry on its business diligently and in the ordinary course
and use its best efforts to preserve its present business organization intact
and preserve its present relationships with Persons having business dealings
with it. DBSD shall not, and shall instruct its agents (including without
limitation its directors, officers, attorneys, accountants and investment
bankers) not to take any action which DBSD is prohibited from taking pursuant to
this Agreement, or which could reasonably be expected to increase the
liabilities or obligations, or decrease the rights, which EchoStar expects to
obtain consistent with the terms of this Agreement.
6.2 OUTSTANDING COMMON SHARES. Immediately prior to the Effective Time of
the Merger, the Outstanding Common Stock shall not exceed the number set forth
in Section 4.2 and Schedule 4.2 hereof, plus any Additional Equity Rights.
6.3 DBSD ASSETS AND LIABILITIES.
6.3.1 Through the Effective Time of the Merger, DBSD shall maintain
the DBS Rights free and clear of all liens, charges, encumbrances, pledges,
leases or any other restrictions which could limit in any way the uses which
EchoStar can make of the DBS Rights (other than those limitations imposed by the
FCC on all DBS licensees).
6.3.2 Prior to the Effective Time of the Merger, DBSD shall satisfy
in full each and every liability of DBSD, contingent, fixed, actual, accrued or
otherwise (including, without limitation, all current and long term liabilities
shown on the DBSD Financial Statements) (hereinafter referred to as the "DBSD
Liabilities") which accrued subsequent to August 3, 1987 (other than the debt to
TCI-K1, Inc. in the original principal amount of $500,000, which DBSD shall only
be required to repay if such debt is then due and owing and then only to the
extent of available cash or cash equivalents on hand on the day immediately
preceding the Merger Closing Date), so that there shall exist absolutely no DBSD
Liabilities at the Effective Time of the Merger other than Permitted Liabilities
(to the extent that DBSD does not have cash and cash equivalents on hand
adequate to pay such Permitted Liabilities).
6.3.3 If DBSD fails to satisfy Section 6.3.2 above prior to Closing,
then in addition to all other remedies available to EchoStar pursuant to this
Agreement, EchoStar shall be entitled, to the extent necessary in order to
satisfy all of the DBSD Liabilities in full, to adjust and amend the Share
Value, or the Cash Value, as the case may be, as set forth in Section 2.4 of
this Agreement.
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6.4 RESTRICTED ACTIVITIES AND TRANSACTIONS. Prior to the Effective Time of
the Merger, DBSD shall not:
6.4.1 amend its Certificate of Incorporation or By-Laws;
6.4.2 issue, sell or deliver, or agree to issue, sell or deliver or
grant, or declare any stock dividend or stock split with respect to, any DBSD
Shares or any securities convertible into any such DBSD Shares or convertible
into securities in turn so convertible, to any options, warrants or other rights
calling for the issuance, sale or delivery of any such shares or convertible
securities, provided, however, nothing in this Subsection 6.4.2 shall prohibit
DBSD from issuing DBSD Shares pursuant to any obligations, contingent or
absolute, in existence on the date of this Agreement and disclosed in the DBSD
Financial Statements and Schedule 4.2 to this Agreement ("Existing Equity
Rights") or Additional Equity Rights as permitted elsewhere in this Agreement;
6.4.3 sell, mortgage, pledge, lease or otherwise transfer or encumber
(a "Transfer"), or grant or agree to grant any rights to Transfer, any of the
DBSD Rights or any of its other material assets, property or rights, tangible or
intangible;
6.4.4 borrow, or agree to borrow, any funds or voluntarily incur,
assume or become subject to, whether directly or by way of guarantee or
otherwise, any obligation or liability, absolute or contingent, other than
Permitted Liabilities;
6.4.5 acquire control or ownership of any other corporation,
association, joint venture, partnership, business trust or other business
entity, or acquire control or ownership of all or a substantial portion of the
assets of any of foregoing, or enter into any agreement providing for any of the
foregoing;
6.4.6 solicit, discuss, negotiate or enter into any agreement with
any third party, or provide any information to any third party, with respect to
any inquiry, proposal, offer or possible offer from a third party relating to:
(i) the purchase of DBSD Shares or the acquisition of any option, warrant or
other right to purchase or otherwise acquire any such DBSD Shares or convertible
securities; (ii) an exchange offer for any DBSD Shares; (iii) a purchase, lease
or other acquisition of all or a substantial portion of the assets of DBSD; (iv)
a merger, consolidation or other combination involving DBSD; (v) any transaction
involving the DBS Rights; or (vi) any similar matter; provided, however, nothing
in this Subsection 6.4.6 shall prohibit DBSD from continuing its discussions
with foreign governments and foreign or domestic Persons regarding international
applications for the DBS Rights and joint venture opportunities with respect
thereto, provided that DBSD: (x) discloses all such discussions in existence on
the date of this Agreement in Schedule 6.4.6 attached hereto; (y) notifies
EchoStar in writing regarding the substance and content of any further
discussions; and (z) enters into no agreements, contracts, arrangements or
commitments which limit in any respect the uses to which EchoStar can put the
DBS Rights in the event the Merger is consummated, otherwise diminishes or
restricts the benefits or rights EchoStar expects to obtain from the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, or exposes DBSD to any obligations
or liabilities, contingent, absolute or otherwise. DBSD shall immediately notify
EchoStar of any inquiries received with respect to any of matters set forth in
clauses (i) through (vi) above.
6.4.7 declare or pay any dividend with respect to DBSD Shares in
cash, stock or property, or redeem, purchase (or otherwise acquire any DBSD
Shares) or any options, warrants or other rights to purchase or to be issued
DBSD Shares;
6.4.8 enter into any contract (other than in the ordinary course of
its business or as otherwise permitted by this Agreement), or any licensing
arrangement;
6.4.9 conduct no business other than: (i) exercising its rights as
required by this Agreement; (ii) satisfying its obligation pursuant to its
Satellite Contract, by and between DBSD and
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Martin Marietta Corporation, dated March 12, 1990, as amended (the "Satellite
Contract"), or necessary to maintain its DBS Rights; or (iii) otherwise
necessary in the ordinary course of business; or
6.4.10 except as set forth in Section 8.8, take any action or fail to
take any action that could: (i) prevent any of its warranties and
representations herein from being true in all material respects as of the
Effective Time of the Merger; (ii) jeopardize the performance or fulfillment of
any of its obligations or commitments under this Agreement; or (iii) reasonably
be expected to have a material adverse effect on any of the benefits EchoStar
may derive from the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or from its
ownership of the DBSD Shares following the Effective Time of the Merger.
6.5 NO DEFAULT OR VIOLATION. Prior to the Effective Time of the Merger,
DBSD shall not: (i) violate, or commit a breach of or a default under, any
contract, obligation or commitment to which it is a party or to which any of its
assets may be subject (except to the extent clearly not material to DBSD's
Business); or (ii) violate any applicable General Law or judgments binding upon
DBSD (except to the extent clearly not material to DBSD's Business) or which
would prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
6.6 REPORTS; TAXES, ETC. Prior to the Effective Time of the Merger:
6.6.1 DBSD shall duly and timely (by the due date or any duly granted
extension thereof) file all reports and returns required to be filed with the
Federal, state and local authorities; and
6.6.2 DBSD shall: (i) promptly pay all Tax Liabilities indicated by
such returns or otherwise lawfully levied or assessed upon it or any of its
properties (except those Tax Liabilities which are currently being contested in
good faith and with respect to which adequate provision for the payment thereof
has been reserved and set aside by DBSD); and (ii) withhold or collect and pay
to the proper governmental authorities or hold in separate bank accounts for
such payment all taxes and other assessments which it believes in good faith to
be required by law to be so withheld or collected.
6.7 ADVICE OF CHANGES. DBSD shall promptly advise EchoStar orally and in
writing of: (i) any event occurring subsequent to the date of this Agreement
which would render any representation or warranty of DBSD contained in this
Agreement, if made on or as of the date of such event or the Merger Closing
Date, untrue, inaccurate or incomplete in any material respect; and (ii) any
material adverse change in the DBSD Financial Statements, working capital,
financial condition, assets, liabilities (whether absolute, accrued, contingent
to otherwise), operating profits, business or prospects of DBSD not otherwise
disclosed to EchoStar through permitted schedule updates to the Purchase
Agreement.
6.8 CONSENTS, APPROVALS AND FILINGS. DBSD shall use its best efforts to
obtain as promptly as possible all necessary approvals, authorizations,
consents, licenses, clearances or orders of governmental and regulatory
authorities required in order for DBSD to perform its obligations hereunder.
DBSD shall, as soon as practicable after the execution of this Agreement and the
effectiveness of the Form S-4 registration statement referenced in Section 6.12
hereof, and within the time provided by DGCL, call a special meeting of its
shareholders for the express purpose of voting upon this Agreement. DBSD shall
fully coordinate with EchoStar the preparation and timing of distribution of
those materials to its shareholders, including in those materials all materials
requested to be included by EchoStar, and no other material other than a proxy
and the Board recommendation described in this Section 6.8, provided that all
such materials must be in compliance with all applicable Federal and state
securities laws. The Board of DBSD shall recommend that the shareholders approve
the Merger and DBSD shall use its best efforts to obtain that approval, unless
at the time the materials are forwarded EchoStar is in material breach of this
Agreement, which breach has not been cured following required notice and the
expiration of all cure periods, or in the event of a Deemed Acceleration or a
default under the Indenture which Entitles Acceleration.
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6.9 DBSD DUE DILIGENCE. From the date hereof through the Effective Time of
the Merger, DBSD shall use its best efforts to comply with all DBSD Due
Diligence requirements imposed by the FCC. Unless and until the FCC has approved
a transfer of control of DBSD to EchoStar, nothing herein shall be construed as
limiting the sole prerogative of DBSD's Board and management to file FCC
applications and any responses to FCC inquiries.
6.10 ACCESS TO RECORDS AND PROPERTIES. EchoStar may, prior to the
Effective Time of the Merger, through its employees, agents and representatives,
make or cause to be made a detailed review of the business and financial
condition of DBSD and make or cause to made such investigation as it deems
necessary or advisable of the properties, assets, businesses, books and records
of DBSD. DBSD agrees to reasonably assist EchoStar in conducting such review and
investigation and will provide, and will cause its independent public
accountants to provide, EchoStar and its employees, agents and representatives
during regular business hours, in a manner that does not unreasonably interfere
with the operation of the business of DBSD, full access to, and complete
information concerning, all aspects of the businesses of DBSD, including its
books, records (including tax returns filed or in preparation), FCC filings,
contracts, projections, personnel and premises, the audit work papers and other
records of its independent public accountants and any documents (including any
documents filed on a confidential basis) included in any report filed with any
governmental agency.
6.11 BEST EFFORTS. DBSD shall use its best efforts to: (i) cause to be
fulfilled and satisfied all of the conditions to the Merger Closing to be
fulfilled and satisfied by it; (ii) cause to be performed all of the matters
required of it at or prior to the Merger Closing; (iii) fully comply with all
General Laws (except to the extent clearly not material to DBSD's Business) and
DBSD Due Diligence; (iv) use its good faith best efforts to obtain approval of
the Merger by DBSD's shareholders and the FCC at the earliest possible date; and
(v) cooperate with EchoStar, in all reasonable respects in order to comply in
full with the spirit and intent of this Agreement. DBSD shall further take all
steps as shall be necessary to the end that the transactions contemplated hereby
shall be timely consummated; shall not commit or cause to be committed any act
which would prohibit the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement; and shall not refrain or cause any Affiliate to refrain from taking
any action necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement. DBSD shall use its best efforts to
make all of its warranties and representations contained in this Agreement true
and correct in all material respects as at the Merger Closing, with the same
effect as if the same had been made and this Agreement had been dated as at the
Merger Closing.
6.12 REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT AND PROSPECTUS.
6.12.1 EchoStar and DBSD shall prepare, and EchoStar file with the
SEC as soon as is reasonably practicable after the date hereof a Form S-4
registration statement (the "S-4 Registration Statement") and a Proxy Statement
and Prospectus and shall use their best efforts to have the S-4 Registration
Statement declared effective by the Commission as promptly as practicable. The
S-4 Registration Statement shall provide for the registration under the
Securities Act of that number of EchoStar Shares which is sufficient to satisfy
EchoStar's obligations to issue EchoStar Shares in the Merger. EchoStar and DBSD
shall also take any action required to be taken under applicable law in
connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, including, without limitation, in the case of EchoStar, all filings
under applicable state blue sky or securities laws in connection with the
issuance of the EchoStar Shares. EchoStar and DBSD shall promptly furnish to
each other all information, and take such other actions, as may reasonably be
requested in connection with any action by either of them in connection with the
provisions of this Section. DBSD and EchoStar shall cooperate in the preparation
and filing of the S-4 Registration Statement, Proxy Statement and Prospectus and
all information furnished for use therein by either party shall be reasonably
satisfactory to the other; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that neither party shall have any
liability to the other or to any third party for any information contained
therein which is furnished by the other party. The information provided and to
be provided by DBSD and EchoStar, respectively, for use in the
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Proxy Statement and Prospectus shall be true and correct in all material
respects and shall not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to
make such information and the Proxy Statement and Prospectus not misleading as
of the date of the Proxy Statement and Prospectus.
6.12.2 Prior to the date of approval of the Merger by DBSD's
shareholders, each of DBSD and EchoStar shall correct promptly any information
provided by it to be used specifically in the Proxy Statement, Prospectus and
S-4 Registration Statement that shall have become false or misleading in any
material respect and EchoStar shall take all steps necessary to file with the
SEC and have declared effective or cleared by the SEC any amendment or
supplement to the Prospectus or the S-4 Registration Statement and together with
DBSD to cause the Prospectus as so corrected to be disseminated to the
shareholders of DBSD, in each case to the extent required by applicable law.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, EchoStar shall notify DBSD
promptly of the receipt of the comments of the SEC and of any request by the SEC
for amendments or supplements to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement,
or for additional information, and EchoStar shall supply DBSD with copies of all
correspondence between EchoStar on the one hand, and the SEC on the other hand,
with respect to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement. If at any time
prior to the DBSD shareholder meeting any event should occur relating to DBSD or
EchoStar or their respective officers or directors which should be described in
an amendment or supplement to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement, the
parties shall promptly inform each other. Whenever any event occurs which should
be described in an amendment or a supplement to the Proxy Statement, Prospectus
or S-4 Registration Statement, DBSD and EchoStar shall, upon learning of such
event, cooperate in promptly preparing, filing and clearing with the SEC and
mailing to DBSD's shareholders such amendment or supplement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that prior to such mailing (i) DBSD and EchoStar shall consult with each other
with respect to such amendment or supplement, (ii) shall afford each other
reasonable opportunity to comment thereon and (iii) each such amendment or
supplement shall be reasonably satisfactory to the other.
ARTICLE VII
COVENANT OF ECHOSTAR
7.1 BEST EFFORTS. EchoStar shall: (i) cause to be fulfilled and satisfied
all of the conditions to the Merger Closing to be fulfilled and satisfied by it;
(ii) cause to be performed all of the matters required of it at or prior to the
Merger Closing; (iii) cooperate with DBSD in order to obtain FCC Approval at the
earliest possible date; and (iv) cooperate with DBSD in all reasonable respects
in order to comply in full with the spirit and intent of this Agreement.
EchoStar shall further take all steps as shall be necessary to the end that the
Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be timely consummated;
shall not commit or cause to be committed any act which would prohibit the
consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (other than
pursuing actions at the FCC with respect to applicants other than DBSD); and
shall not refrain or cause any Subsidiary to refrain from taking any action
necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the consummation of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. Nothing herein or anywhere else in this
Agreement shall be construed as obligating EchoStar to provide any additional
funds or guarantees to DBSD or otherwise to finance DBSD's business. EchoStar
shall use its best efforts to make all of its warranties and representations
contained in this Agreement which are expressly deemed made as of the Effective
Time of the Merger, true and correct in all material respects as at the Merger
Closing, with the same effect as if the same had been made and this Agreement
had been dated as at the Merger Closing.
7.2 CONSENTS, APPROVALS AND FILINGS. EchoStar shall use its best efforts
to obtain as promptly as possible all necessary approvals, authorizations,
consents, licenses, clearances or orders of governmental and regulatory
authorities required in order for EchoStar to perform its obligations hereunder.
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7.3 ADVICE OF CHANGES. EchoStar shall promptly advise DBSD orally and in
writing of: (i) any event occurring subsequent to the date of this Agreement
which would render any representation or warranty of EchoStar contained in this
Agreement, which representation or warranty is expressly deemed made as of the
Effective Time of the Merger, if made on or as of the date of such event or the
Merger Closing Date, untrue, inaccurate or incomplete in any material respect;
and (ii) any default under the Indenture which Entitles Acceleration or a Deemed
Acceleration.
7.4 RESTRICTED ACTIVITIES AND TRANSACTIONS. Prior to the Merger Closing,
EchoStar shall not take any action or fail to take any action that: (i) will
prevent any of its warranties and representations herein from being true in all
material respects as of the Merger Closing; (ii) will jeopardize the performance
or fulfillment of any of its obligations or commitments under this Agreement; or
(iii) could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on any of
the benefits DBSD may derive from the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement following the Merger Closing (other than pursuing actions at the FCC
with respect to applicants other than DBSD).
7.5 NEGOTIATIONS WITH DBSD SHAREHOLDERS. Until such time as the Merger is
approved by DBSD's shareholders, EchoStar shall not, and shall cause its
officers, directors, employees, representatives and agents not to, directly or
indirectly, negotiate with any shareholder of DBSD to purchase their DBSD
Shares, provided, however, nothing contained in this Section 7.5 or elsewhere in
this Agreement shall prohibit EchoStar from accepting a pledge of DBSD Shares
from any DBSD shareholder as security for the repayment of obligations of such
shareholder to EchoStar, provided that such pledge: (i) shall not limit the
ability of such shareholder to vote their DBSD Shares without influence by
EchoStar, unless and until an event of default occurs, and then only provided
that any required FCC notifications and approvals have been obtained; and (ii)
shall not occur until after the Merger Trigger Date. Any transfer of DBSD Shares
following an event of default shall not be recognized as effective by DBSD
unless and until any required FCC notifications and approvals have been
obtained.
7.6 ACCESS TO RECORDS AND PROPERTIES.
7.6.1 DBSD may, prior to the Effective Time of the Merger, through
its employees, agents and representatives, make or cause to be made a detailed
review of the business and financial condition of EchoStar and make or cause to
be made such investigation as it deems necessary or advisable of the properties,
assets, businesses, books and records of EchoStar, in order to aid in the
preparation of materials for distribution to its shareholders to seek approval
of the Merger. EchoStar agrees to reasonably assist DBSD in conducting such
review and investigation and will provide and will cause its independent public
accountants to provide, DBSD and its employees, agents and representatives
reasonable access during regular business hours, in a manner that does not
unreasonably interfere with the operation of the business of EchoStar, to, and
complete information concerning, all aspects of the business of EchoStar,
including its books, records (including tax returns filed or in preparation),
projections, personnel and premises, the audit work papers and other records of
its independent public accountants and any documents (excluding any documents
filed on a confidential basis) included in any report filed with a governmental
agency.
7.6.2 All materials provided to DBSD pursuant to Subsection 7.6.1
hereof shall be used by DBSD solely in connection with its due diligence
examination of EchoStar and the preparation of materials necessary or required
to seek shareholder approval of the Merger; provided, however, unless such
materials or the contents thereof have been publicly disclosed to the SEC under
the Securities Act or the Securities Exchange Act, such materials or the
contents thereof shall not be disclosed to such shareholders in connection with
a proxy solicitation or otherwise. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, and notwithstanding any prior public disclosure with the SEC or
otherwise, DBSD shall not provide to its shareholders, or any Person, any
projections obtained from EchoStar, or materials based on projections obtained
from EchoStar. The restrictions and prohibitions contained in this Subsection
7.6.2 are in addition to any confidentially agreements between the parties,
whether contained in this Agreement or otherwise.
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7.7 REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT AND JOINT PROSPECTUS.
7.7.1 EchoStar and DBSD shall prepare, and EchoStar shall file with
the SEC as soon as is reasonably practicable after the date hereof the S-4
Registration Statement and a Proxy Statement and Prospectus and shall use their
best efforts to have the S-4 Registration Statement declared effective by the
Commission as promptly as practicable. The S-4 Registration Statement shall
provide for the registration under the Securities Act of that number of EchoStar
Shares which is sufficient to satisfy EchoStar's obligations to issue EchoStar
Shares in the Merger. EchoStar and DBSD shall also take any action required to
be taken under applicable law in connection with the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, without limitation, in
the case of EchoStar all filings under applicable state blue sky or securities
laws in connection with the issuance of the EchoStar Shares. EchoStar and DBSD
shall promptly furnish to each other all information, and take such other
actions, as may reasonably be requested in connection with any action by either
of them in connection with the provisions of this Section. DBSD and EchoStar
shall cooperate in the preparation and filing of the S-4 Registration Statement,
Proxy Statement and Prospectus and all information furnished for use therein by
either party shall be reasonably satisfactory to the other; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that neither party shall have any liability to the other or to any third party
for any information contained therein which is furnished by the other party. The
information provided and to be provided by DBSD and EchoStar, respectively, for
use in the Proxy Statement and Prospectus shall be true and correct in all
material respects and shall not omit to state any material fact necessary in
order to make such information and the Proxy Statement and Prospectus not
misleading as of the date of the Proxy Statement and Prospectus.
7.7.2 Prior to the date of approval of the Merger by DBSD's
shareholders, each of DBSD and EchoStar shall correct promptly any information
provided by it to be used specifically in the Proxy Statement, Prospectus and
S-4 Registration Statement that shall have become false or misleading in any
material respect and EchoStar shall take all steps necessary to file with the
SEC and have declared effective or cleared by the SEC any amendment or
supplement to the Prospectus or the S-4 Registration Statement and together with
DBSD to cause the Prospectus as so corrected to be disseminated to the
shareholders of DBSD, in each case to the extent required by applicable law.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, EchoStar shall notify DBSD
promptly of the receipt of the comments of the SEC and of any request by the SEC
for amendments or supplements to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement,
or for additional information, and EchoStar shall supply DBSD with copies of all
correspondence between EchoStar on the one hand, and the SEC on the other hand,
with respect to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement. If at any time
prior to the DBSD shareholder meeting any event should occur relating to DBSD or
EchoStar or their respective officers or directors which should be described in
an amendment or supplement to the Prospectus and S-4 Registration Statement, the
parties shall promptly inform each other. Whenever any event occurs which should
be described in an amendment or a supplement to the Proxy Statement, Prospectus
or S-4 Registration Statement, DBSD and EchoStar shall, upon learning of such
event, cooperate in promptly preparing, filing and clearing with the SEC and
mailing to DBSD's shareholders such amendment or supplement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that, prior to such mailing, (i) DBSD and EchoStar shall consult with each other
with respect to such amendment or supplement, (ii) shall afford each other
reasonable opportunity to comment thereon and (iii) each such amendment or
supplement shall be reasonably satisfactory to the other.
7.8 REPORTS. Subsequent to consummation of the Merger, EchoStar shall
provide to the former DBSD shareholders such periodic reports as it furnishes to
the other shareholders of EchoStar generally, for as long as they remain
EchoStar shareholders.
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ARTICLE VIII
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO OBLIGATIONS
OF ECHOSTAR AND DBSC
The obligations of EchoStar and DBSC under this Agreement to consummate the
Merger shall be subject to the satisfaction, or to the waiver by them in the
manner contemplated by Section 12.2 hereof, on or before the Merger Closing
Date, of the following conditions:
8.1 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE. The representations and
warranties of DBSD contained in this Agreement, and of DBSD and Radin contained
in Section 4.3 of the Stock Purchase Agreement between EchoStar, DBSD and Radin
dated November 15, 1994 (the "Purchase Agreement"), shall be in all material
respects true and accurate as of the date when made and, except as to
representations and warranties (consisting solely of representations and
warranties regarding the DBSD Financial Statements and as to Additional Equity
Rights), which are expressly limited to a state of facts existing at a time
prior to the Merger Date, shall be in all material respects true and accurate at
and as of the Merger Closing Date as if made on the Merger Closing Date.
8.2 PERFORMANCE OF COVENANTS. DBSD shall have performed and complied in
all material respects with each and every covenant, agreement and condition
required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by it prior to or on
the Merger Closing Date.
8.3 NO GOVERNMENTAL OR OTHER PROCEEDING OR LITIGATION.
8.3.1. No order of any court or administrative agency shall be in
effect which restrains or prohibits any transaction contemplated hereby or which
would limit or materially adversely affect EchoStar's ownership of DBSD; no
suit, action, investigation, inquiry or proceeding by any governmental body or
other Person or entity shall be pending or threatened against EchoStar, DBSC or
DBSD which challenges the validity or legality, or seeks to restrain the
consummation, of the transactions contemplated hereby or which seeks to limit or
otherwise materially adversely affect EchoStar's ownership of DBSD; and no
written advice shall have been received by EchoStar, DBSC, DBSD or their
respective counsel from any governmental body, which remains in effect, stating
that an action or proceeding will, if the Merger is consummated or sought to be
consummated, be filed seeking to invalidate or restrain the Merger or limit or
otherwise affect EchoStar's ownership of DBSD as contemplated by this Agreement.
8.3.2 In addition to the conditions to the Merger Closing set forth
in Subsection 8.3.1 hereof, EchoStar shall have received no oral or written
notice from the FCC that consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
could reasonably be expected to result in a loss of any of EchoStar's DBS
licenses or rights, or the DBS Rights (an "Adverse Notice"); provided, however,
that in the event that any such Adverse Notice by the FCC is orally provided to
EchoStar the condition to the Merger Closing set forth in this Subsection 8.3.2
shall not be satisfied until the FCC confirms the Adverse Notice to counsel to
DBSD.
8.4 APPROVALS AND CONSENTS.
8.4.1 The transfer of control of DBSD, resulting from the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have received the approval
and consent of the FCC as required by applicable rules and regulations of the
FCC ("FCC Approval") in a "Final Order". For the purposes of this Agreement,
"Final Order" means an action or decision as to which: (i) no request for a stay
is pending, no stay is in effect, and any deadline for filing such request that
may be designated by statute or regulation has passed; (ii) no petition for
rehearing or reconsideration or application for review is pending and the time
for the filing of any such petition or application has passed; (iii) the FCC or
other
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regulatory agency does not have the action or decision under reconsideration on
its own motion and the time within which it may effect such reconsideration has
passed; and (iv) no appeal is pending or in effect and any deadline for filing
any such appeal that may be designated by statute or rule has passed.
8.4.2 The approval of shareholders of DBSD to the Merger, and all
approvals of applications to public authorities, Federal, state, or local, if
any, and all consents or approvals of any nongovernmental Persons, the granting
of which is necessary for the consummation of the Merger or for preventing the
termination or material breach of any right, privilege, license or agreement of
EchoStar of DBSD which is material to the business of EchoStar or DBSD, or for
preventing any material loss or disadvantage to EchoStar or DBSD, by reason of
the Merger, shall have been obtained; and no such consents or approvals shall
have imposed a condition to such consent or approval which in the reasonable
opinion of EchoStar is unduly burdensome to the consolidated financial condition
or operations of EchoStar or to DBSD's business.
8.5 OPINIONS OF COUNSEL. EchoStar shall have received an opinion of
Sullivan & Worcester, counsel to DBSD, dated the Merger Closing Date and
addressed to EchoStar, in substantially the form and substance set forth in
Schedule 8.5 attached hereto.
8.6 CERTIFICATES. DBSD shall have furnished EchoStar with a certificate of
DBSD in form and substance satisfactory to EchoStar, signed by DBSD's President,
to the effect that DBSD's representations and warranties contained in this
Agreement are true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Merger
Closing Date as though such representations and warranties were made at such
time (except as contemplated in Section 8.1 hereof) and that DBSD has performed
and complied in all material respects with all terms, covenants and provisions
of this Agreement required to be performed or complied with or by it prior to or
on the Merger Closing Date.
8.7 RESIGNATIONS. DBSD shall have received resignations (in form and
substance satisfactory to EchoStar) for each of its directors and officers, in
each case effective as of the Effective Time of the Merger.
8.8 ADVERSE CHANGES. DBSD shall have experienced no material adverse
change in its business, business prospects or financial condition between the
date of this Agreement and the consummation of the Merger other than such change
as is unrelated to events arising prior to the Merger Trigger Date, and: (i) is
the direct or indirect result of action within the control of DBSD which DBSD
takes or fails to take; and (ii) is contrary to a reasonable alternative course
of action which, following reasonable prior written notice of the change,
EchoStar suggested that DBSD pursue.
8.9 DBS RIGHTS. The DBS Rights shall continue to be held by DBSD free and
clear of any Challenges, mortgages, pledges, leases, or other encumbrances,
absolute or contingent which could limit in any way the uses which EchoStar can
make of the DBS Rights (other than those limitations imposed by the FCC on all
DBS licensees), except as limited by Section 8.8 above.
ARTICLE IX
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO OBLIGATIONS OF DBSD
The obligations of DBSD under this Agreement to consummate the Merger shall
be subject to the satisfaction, or to the waiver by it in the manner
contemplated by Section 12.2 hereof, on or before the Merger Closing Date of the
following conditions:
9.1 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE. The representations and
warranties of EchoStar contained in this Agreement shall be in all material
respects true and accurate as of the date when made, and the representations and
warranties which are expressly deemed made as of the Effective Time of the
Merger shall be in all material respects true and accurate at and as of the
Merger Closing Date as if made on the Merger Closing Date.
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9.2 PERFORMANCE OF COVENANTS. EchoStar and DBSC shall have performed and
complied in all material respects with each and every covenant, agreement and
condition required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with or by it
prior to or on the Merger Closing Date.
9.3 NO GOVERNMENTAL OR OTHER PROCEEDING OR LITIGATION. No order of any
court or administrative agency shall be in effect which restrains or prohibits
any transaction contemplated hereby.
9.4 APPROVALS AND CONSENTS. The approval of the shareholders of DBSD to
the Merger.
9.5 OPINION OF COUNSEL. DBSD shall have received an opinion of David K.
Moskowitz, Esquire, counsel for EchoStar, dated the Merger Closing Date and
addressed to DBSD, in the form and substance set forth in Schedule 9.5 attached
hereto.
9.6 CERTIFICATES. EchoStar shall have furnished DBSD with a certificate of
EchoStar in form and substance satisfactory to DBSD, signed by its President or
Executive Vice President, to the effect that the representations and warranties
contained in this Agreement are true and correct in all material respects on and
as of the Merger Closing Date as though such representations and warranties were
made at such time and that it has performed and complied in all material
respects with all terms, covenants and provisions of this Agreement required to
be performed or complied with by it prior to or on the Merger Closing Date.
ARTICLE X
CLOSING; CLOSING DATE
Unless this Agreement shall have been terminated and the Merger shall have
been abandoned pursuant to a provisions of Article XI hereof, a closing (the
"Merger Closing") will be held on a date mutually acceptable to EchoStar and
DBSD as soon as practicable after the Effective Time of the Merger, at the
offices of EchoStar Communications Corporation commencing at 10:00 a.m. At such
time and place, the documents referred to in Articles VIII and IX hereof shall
be exchanged by the parties and, immediately thereafter, the Certificate of
Merger and the Articles of Merger shall be filed by DBSC and DBSD with the
Secretaries of State of the States of Delaware and Colorado; provided, however,
that if any of the conditions provided for in Articles VIII and IX hereof shall
not have been met or waived by the date on which the Merger Closing is otherwise
scheduled, then, subject to Section 11.1.3 hereof, the party to this Agreement
which is unable to meet such condition or conditions shall be entitled (provided
that such party is acting in good faith) to postpone the Merger Closing for a
reasonable period of time by notice to the other parties until such condition or
conditions shall have been met (which such notifying party will seek to cause to
happen at the earliest practicable date) or waived. The date on which the Merger
Closing occurs is hereinafter referred to as the "Merger Closing Date."
ARTICLE XI
TERMINATION
11.1 TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT. This Agreement may be terminated and the
Merger may be abandoned before the Effective Time of the Merger, notwithstanding
any approval and adoption of this Agreement by the Board of Directors or
shareholders of DBSD, EchoStar or DBSC:
11.1.1 by the mutual consent of the Boards of Directors of EchoStar,
DBSC and DBSD; or
11.1.2 by EchoStar or DBSC if there has been a material
misrepresentation or material breach on the part of DBSD in the representations,
warranties or covenants of DBSD set forth herein or in the Purchase Agreement,
or if there has been any material failure on the part of DBSD to comply with its
obligations hereunder or in the Purchase Agreement, or by DBSD if there has been
a material misrepresentation or material breach on the part of EchoStar or DBSC
in the representations, warranties or covenants of EchoStar or DBSC set forth
herein or in the Purchase Agreement, or if
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there has been any material failure on the part of EchoStar or DBSC to comply
with their obligations hereunder or in the Purchase Agreement; in either event
only if the other party does not materially cure such breach within five (5)
business days following written notice from the non-breaching party.
11.1.3 by EchoStar if the FCC notifies EchoStar at any time that
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby could reasonably be
expected to result in loss of any of EchoStar's DBS licenses or rights, or the
DBS Rights. In the event that any such notification is provided orally, Echostar
shall only be permitted to rely on this provision to terminate if the FCC
confirms those comments to counsel for DBSD.
11.1.4 by EchoStar if all the conditions set forth in Article VIII,
or by DBSD if all of the conditions set forth in Article IX, are not satisfied
by December 31, 1997.
11.1.5 by EchoStar as provided in Section 2.4 herein.
11.2 TERMINATION PROCEDURES. The power of termination provided for by this
Article XI may be exercised for EchoStar, DBSC or DBSD only by its respective
Board of Directors and will be effective only after written notice thereof,
signed on behalf of the party for which it is given by its President or other
duly authorized officer, shall have been given to the other.
11.3 EFFECT OF TERMINATION. If this Agreement is terminated in accordance
with this Article XI then the Merger shall be abandoned without further action
by DBSD, EchoStar or DBSC, and their officers shall not file the Certificate of
Merger or the Articles of Merger with the Secretaries of State of the states of
Delaware and Colorado. Nothing in this Article XI shall relieve any party to
this Agreement of liability for breach of this Agreement.
ARTICLE XII
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
12.1 AMENDMENT AND MODIFICATION.
12.1.1 To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this
Agreement may be amended, modified and supplemented with respect to any of the
terms contained herein by mutual consent of DBSD and EchoStar, and the
respective Boards of Directors of EchoStar and DBSD, or by their respective
officers duly authorized by such Board of Directors, by an appropriate written
instrument executed at any time prior to the Merger Closing.
12.1.2 In the event that the inclusion herein of any provision of
this Agreement would cause EchoStar or DBSD to be in violation of any FCC rule
or regulation, or any other applicable law, or would cause a loss of, or
materially adversely affect EchoStar's DBS licenses or rights, or the DBS
Rights, those provisions shall be deemed automatically rewritten, without any
further action by the parties hereto, to the minimum extent required in order to
permit their intent to be carried out as best as is possible without so
violating FCC rules or regulations or causing the loss or material adverse
affect. The parties agree to promptly use their best efforts to reflect in
writing any modification or amendment to this Agreement that may be required in
order to carry out the intentions of this Subsection 12.1.2.
12.2 WAIVER OF COMPLIANCE. To the fullest extent permitted by law, each of
EchoStar, DBSC and DBSD may, pursuant to action by its respective Board of
Directors, or its respective officers duly authorized by its Board of Directors,
by an instrument in writing extend the time for or waive the performance of any
of the obligations of the other or waive compliance by the other with any of the
covenants, or waive any of the conditions of its obligations, contained herein.
No such extension of time or waiver shall operate as a waiver of, or estoppel
with respect to, any subsequent failure to comply with any of the covenants in
this Agreement.
12.3 ENFORCEMENT REMEDIES. If a party (the "Defaulting Party") materially
breaches any obligation or covenant made in this Agreement, or fails to fulfill
any condition, or if any representation or
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warranty made by or on behalf of the Defaulting Party in this Agreement or in
any certificate or other instrument delivered under or pursuant to any term
hereof shall be untrue or incorrect in any material respect as of the date of
this Agreement or as of the date it was made, furnished or delivered, the
nondefaulting party (the "Nondefaulting Party") may proceed to protect and
enforce its rights by suit in equity or action at law. The parties acknowledge
that the representations, covenants, agreements and obligations hereunder are
unique and that, in the event of breach of such, remedies at law would be
inadequate, it would be difficult to determine the amount of damages resulting
therefrom, and such breach would cause irreparable injury to the Nondefaulting
Party. The Nondefaulting Party shall be entitled, in addition to any other legal
or equitable right, to the remedy of specific performance of any term contained
in this Agreement, or to a preliminary or permanent injunction against the
breach of any such term or in aid of the exercise of any power or right granted
in this Agreement, or any combination thereof. Except as provided above, none of
the rights, powers or remedies conferred herein shall be mutually exclusive, and
each such right, power or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every
other right, power or remedy, whether conferred hereby or hereafter available at
law, in equity, by statute or otherwise.
12.4 SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The respective
representations and warranties of each party hereto contained herein shall not
be deemed to be waived or otherwise affected by any investigation made by the
other parties hereto. The representation and warranty of EchoStar that the
information contained in its S-4 registration statement to be filed with the SEC
in connection with the Merger complied with all SEC rules when declared
effective, shall survive the Merger Closing.
12.5 NO THIRD PARTY RIGHTS. Except as otherwise provided in this
Agreement, nothing herein expressed or implied is intended, nor shall they be
construed, to confer upon or give any Person, firm or corporation (other than
EchoStar, DBSC and DBSD, and their respective security holders), any rights or
remedies under or by reason of this Agreement.
12.6 CONFIDENTIALITY. EchoStar and DBSD shall honor the confidentiality
agreements previously delivered by each such party to the other with respect to
matters pertaining to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. In
addition to the terms of such agreements, this Agreement, the negotiations
leading to it, together with all terms and conditions of each, and all
information disclosed in the course of either party's due diligence
investigation (collectively, the "Negotiations"), shall be kept and treated as
strictly confidential, unless and until one week prior to the date that the
parties intend to file for FCC Approval of the Merger, or the parties sooner
agree that confidentially is no longer desired with respect to all or certain
portions of the Negotiations. Notwithstanding anything above to the contrary,
the parties shall have the right to disclose the fact of the existence of this
Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, together with the minimum
amount of other information deemed necessary by securities or other regulatory
counsel to either party, if such securities or other regulatory counsel in good
faith determines that public disclosure of the information is necessary under
Federal or state securities or other laws applicable to such party. Disclosure
of such information shall be coordinated in advance with the other party. Any
such disclosure shall not permit the disclosing party to issue any press release
or otherwise discuss or further disseminate the information contained in the
securities or other regulatory filing in any manner. Additionally, EchoStar
shall be permitted to disclose the Negotiations to DirectSat, Donaldson, Lufkin
& Jenrette Securities Corporation ("DLJ") and to potential strategic investors
in EchoStar, provided that DirectSat, DLJ and such other investors agree to
maintain the confidentiality of the Negotiations pursuant to a standard
confidentiality agreement.
12.7 EXPENSES. Each party hereto shall bear all expenses incurred by it in
connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby and
thereby.
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12.8 NOTICES. All notices, requests, demands and other communications
required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have
been duly given when delivered by hand or when mailed by registered or certified
mail, postage paid, or when given by telex or facsimile transmission (promptly
confirmed in writing), as follows:
(a) If to DBSD:
Harley W. Radin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
4401-A Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 400
Washington, D.C. 20008
Fax No. (202) 364-2288
with a copy to:
William L. Fishman
Sullivan & Worcester
1025 Connecticut Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036
Fax No. (202) 293-2275
or to such other Person as DBSD shall designate in writing, such writing to be
delivered to EchoStar in the manner provided in this Section 12.8; and
(b) if to EchoStar:
Charles Ergen
President and Chief Executive Officer
EchoStar Communications Corporation
90 Inverness Circle East
Englewood, CO 80112
Fax No. 303-799-6222
with a copy to:
David K. Moskowitz, Esquire
Vice President and General Counsel
EchoStar Communications Corporation
90 Inverness Circle East
Englewood, Colorado 80112
Fax No. 303-799-0354
or to such other Person as EchoStar shall designate in writing to be delivered
to DBSD in the manner provided in this Section 12.8.
12.9 ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement and all of the provisions hereof shall be
binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors and permitted assigns, but neither this Agreement nor any of the
rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be assigned by any of the
parties hereto without prior written consent of the other parties; provided,
however, that EchoStar or DBSC may assign this Agreement and its rights,
interests and obligations hereunder to a Subsidiary without the consent of DBSD
provided that EchoStar remains liable for each of its assigned obligations
hereunder in the event such assignee fails to perform such obligations.
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12.10. GOVERNING LAWS AND EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION.
12.10.1 This Agreement and the legal relations between the parties
hereto, including all disputes and claims, whether arising in contract, tort or
under statute, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
the State of Colorado without giving effect to its conflict of law provisions.
12.10.2 Any and all disputes arising out of or in connection with the
interpretation, performance or the nonperformance of this Agreement or any and
all disputes arising out of or in connection with transaction in any way related
to this Agreement and/or the relationship between the parties shall be litigated
solely and exclusively before the United States District Court for the District
of Colorado. The parties consent to the in personam jurisdiction of such court
for the purposes of any such litigation, and waive, fully and completely, any
right to dismiss and/or transfer any action pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Section 1404
or 1406 (or any successor statute). In the event the United States District
Court for the District of Colorado does not have subject matter jurisdiction of
such matter, then such matter shall be litigated solely and exclusively before
the appropriate state court of competent jurisdiction located in Arapahoe
County, State of Colorado.
12.11 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts and by the different parties hereto on separate
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
12.12 HEADINGS AND REFERENCES. The headings of the Sections, Subsections
and Articles of this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only
and shall not constitute a part hereof. All references herein to Sections,
Subsection and Articles are to Sections, Subsections and Articles of this
Agreement, unless otherwise indicated.
12.13 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement (including the exhibits hereto and
thereto and the documents referred to herein and therein, all of which form a
part hereof), together with the confidentiality agreements delivered by EchoStar
and DBSD to each other, contain the entire understanding of the parties hereto
and thereto in respect of the subject matter contained herein and therein and
supersede all prior agreements and understandings between the parties with
respect to such subject matter. There are no restrictions, promises,
representations, warranties, covenants or undertakings, other than those
expressly set forth or referred to herein or therein.
12.14 FURTHER ASSURANCES. Each party shall, at and from time to time after
the Merger Trigger Date, upon request of the other party, and without any
further consideration, execute and deliver any additional instruments or
documents to such party as that party may reasonably request, and take such
other actions as may be reasonably requested from time to time by the other
party hereto, as is necessary in order to carry out, evidence and confirm the
intent of the parties in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly
executed as of the date and year first written above.
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
By: /s/ CHARLIE ERGEN
-----------------------------------
Charlie Ergen, President
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION
By: /s/ HARLEY RADIN
-----------------------------------
Harley Radin, Chairman
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION
By: /s/ CHARLIE ERGEN
-----------------------------------
Charlie Ergen, President
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ANNEX II
MERGER TRIGGER AGREEMENT
EchoStar Communications Corporation, a Nevada corporation formed in 1995
("EchoStar"), Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado corporation
("DBSC") and Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Delaware corporation
("DBSD"), in consideration of the benefit which will accrue to each as a result
of the matters described below, and for other good and valuable consideration,
the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby mutually acknowledged, enter
into this Merger Trigger Agreement (the "Agreement") as of the 21st day of
December, 1995, and agree as follows:
1. DBSD hereby provides notice to EchoStar of its exercise, and EchoStar
hereby provides notice to DBSD of its exercise, effective immediately, of their
respective rights to require a merger agreement to be signed among EchoStar,
DBSC and DBSD (the "Merger Agreement" and the "Merger")).
2. EchoStar, DBSC and DBSD (together, the "Parties") agree that the Merger
Agreement, in the form attached as Exhibit A hereto, shall be entered into by
all of them contemporaneous with execution of this Agreement.
3. The Parties hereby irrevocable agree to consummate the Merger without
preconditions, except as specifically set forth below. Further, the Parties
hereby irrevocably waive any right they have had, may now have, or which might
at any time in the future otherwise be available to them, to terminate or refuse
to complete the Merger, whether: a) based upon covenants or conditions to be
fulfilled by the other Party, as set forth in the Merger Agreement; or b) events
which must occur (or not occur) prior to the Merger, as set forth in the Merger
Agreement; or c) based on any other legal, contractual or common law theory,
other than the condition that: d) the Merger must be approved by the Federal
Communications Commission (the "FCC"); and e) the Merger must be approved by
DBSD shareholders.
Notwithstanding anything set forth above, a Party may refuse to complete the
Merger if the other Party wilfully and in bad faith acts, or fails to act, in a
manner that materially impedes consummation of the Merger in material compliance
with the terms the Parties have agreed upon.
Nothing herein shall be construed as relieving any Party of its good faith
obligations to take actions required of it pursuant to the Merger Agreement, or
as limiting the right of a nondefaulting Party to pursue the remedies of
specific performance and other equitable remedies provided in Section 12.3 of
the Merger Agreement.
4. DBSD acknowledges that contemporaneous with execution of this Agreement
and the Merger Agreement, DBSD shareholders owning greater than 50% of the
outstanding shares of DBSD (including EchoStar), will be executing shareholder
consent minutes in the form attached as Exhibit B to this Agreement in
satisfaction of the condition to the Merger set forth in Paragraph 3 e) above,
and ratifying this Agreement and any transactions or agreements entered into
pursuant to this Agreement. DBSD acknowledges and affirms the effectiveness of
those minutes to achieve the intended result.
5. The Parties agree to enter into the Note Purchase Agreement and the
Security Agreement, and DBSD agrees to execute the Direct Broadcasting Satellite
Corporation Promissory Note (the "DBSD Note"), all in the forms attached as
Exhibits C, D and E, respectively, with such reasonable changes as the Parties
mutually agree upon.
6. The Parties agree that in the event the Merger is not completed for any
reason, it is the intent of the Parties to structure a transaction or series of
transactions which will have the effect of providing to DBSD's existing
shareholders as of the date of this Agreement (the "Existing Shareholders"), as
nearly as is possible, the cash amount or number of shares of EchoStar Class A
Common Stock they would have received if the Merger had been completed, and that
it is further the intent of the Parties,
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in those circumstances, to structure a transaction or series of transactions
which will have the effect of providing to EchoStar, as nearly as is possible,
the benefits which would have accrued to EchoStar had the Merger been completed,
for, as nearly as is possible, the cash amount or number of shares of EchoStar
Class A Common Stock EchoStar would have provided to the Existing Shareholders
had the Merger been completed (the "Intent", and the "Intent Consideration").
The Parties intend that the Intent Consideration would be paid in full as soon
as the Intent has been accomplished. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement
which might otherwise be construed to the contrary, in no event shall EchoStar
be obligated to pay both the Intent Consideration and the Non-Duplication
Payment (as defined below), and payment by EchoStar of either shall extinguish
any obligation to pay the other at any time in the future, but shall not
extinguish the obligation of DBSD to fulfill the Intent, or to abide by the
Non-Duplication Agreement.
In structuring the transaction or series of transactions, the Parties agree
to attempt to provide tax-free treatment under the Internal Revenue Code,
provided that such structuring does not have the effect of decreasing any of the
full rights or benefits, or increasing any of the obligations, that EchoStar or
DBSC expect to obtain as a result of the Merger.
In the event either Party reasonably determines that the Merger is unlikely
to be completed, the Parties agree to negotiate in good faith, and use their
best efforts to effectuate the Intent. If at any time the Parties are unable to
agree on the best method to effectuate the Intent, the parties hereby commit to
submit any dispute to mandatory fast track binding arbitration in accordance
with the procedures set forth below.
7. In order to fulfill the Intent, the Parties agree that in addition to
any other actions which the Parties may take, that EchoStar shall have the
right, at any time and from time to time, to convert the DBSD Note, and any
other Notes issued to EchoStar or its affiliates pursuant to the Note Purchase
Agreement, to a pay out for perpetuity of profits of DBSD (and a participation
in any distributions to shareholders, spinoffs or similar transactions). The pay
out will be a percentage of the total profits -- paid quarterly within thirty
(30) days of the end of each calendar quarter (or distribution -- paid when
distributed to shareholders) of DBSD at any time, in accordance with the formula
"X/ (X+$12,945,104)", where "X" is equal to the aggregate amount, including
accrued but unpaid interest, due to EchoStar under the Notes at the time of
conversion (the "Profit Pay Out Percentage"). The Profit Pay Out Percentage
shall be in addition to EchoStar's equity ownership interest in DBSD.
Notwithstanding the above, EchoStar shall not have any right to a Profit Pay Out
Percentage unless and until either the Intent Consideration or the
Non-Duplication Payment has been paid.
8. In the event the Merger is not consummated for any reason, the parties
irrevocably commit to enter into a Capacity Lease Agreement (the "CPA"). The
Parties shall cooperate in good faith and use their best efforts to agree upon
provisions which so far as is reasonably possible give EchoStar the full and
unfettered use of DBSD's spacecraft, including its communications capacity,
TT&C, uplink arrangements and auxiliary or related functions or activities
subject only to the limitation that: a) the terms of the CLA must not be
inconsistent with the full exercise by DBSD of its obligations as an FCC
licensee; b) the terms of the CLA must not interfere with DBSD's right to
control the satellite for technical purposes as required by FCC regulations; and
c) the terms of the CLA must not be inconsistent with the Communications Act of
1934, as amended. The Parties agree that the amount EchoStar shall be obligated
to pay for the capacity, shall be payable in full upon final FCC approval of the
CLA, and shall be the Intent Consideration.
In negotiation of the CLA, which shall commence promptly following execution
of this Agreement, the Parties shall negotiate in good faith, and use their best
efforts to effectuate the intent of the Parties, as described above. If at any
time the Parties are unable to agree on a method to effectuate the intent of the
Parties, the Parties hereby commit to submit any dispute to mandatory fast track
binding arbitration in accordance with the procedures set forth below.
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In the event that the FCC rejects the CLA, or that EchoStar determines that
the Intent would not be adequately fulfilled by a CLA which would be acceptable
to the FCC, then no CLA shall be implemented.
9. DBSD hereby irrevocably commits to utilize EchoStar's DBS operating
system for DBSD's DBS system, including but not limited to utilization of
EchoStar's conditional access and compression system, and EchoStar's uplink
facility (all to be administered through EchoStar), and to purchase from
EchoStar all of its "smart cards" needed to allow customer access to the DBSD
programming. Commencing with the commercial operation of DBSD's first satellite,
DBSD shall pay to EchoStar on a monthly basis, DBSD's pro rata share of the
costs of EchoStar's DBS operating system. The Parties shall enter into an
agreement or agreements as is reasonably requested by any other Party in order
to more fully reflect the terms of this agreement. In the negotiation of those
agreements, the Parties shall negotiate in good faith, and use their best
efforts to effectuate the intent of the Parties, as described above. If at any
time the Parties are unable to agree on a method to effectuate the intent of the
Parties, the Parties hereby commit to submit any dispute to mandatory fast track
binding arbitration in accordance with the procedures set forth below.
10. DBSD hereby irrevocably commits that it will not at anytime, for
perpetuity, carry on any of its DBS satellites any video, audio or data
programming which duplicates any programming carried by EchoStar on any of the
satellites in its DBS system at the time DBSD desires to carry any such
programming (the "Non-Duplication Agreement").
The Non-Duplication Agreement is initially being provided by DBSD in
consideration for the execution by EchoStar of the Note Purchase Agreement. No
additional consideration will be due for continuation of the Non-Duplication
Agreement for perpetuity unless on July 1, 1998: a) approval of the Merger by
the FCC is still pending; or b) the FCC has rejected the Merger and the Intent
has not yet been effectuated, nor the Intent Consideration paid, because FCC
approval is required but that approval has not yet been completed. If either of
the events described in the sentence immediately above exist on July 1, 1998,
then EchoStar shall make an additional one time payment for the continued
applicability, for perpetuity, of the Non-Duplication Agreement. The amount of
the payment shall be equal to the amount of the Intent Consideration (the
"Non-Duplication Payment").
11. In the event any agreement or action of the Parties pursuant to this
Agreement requires FCC approval, and the FCC does not provide that approval, the
Parties agree to restructure the agreement or action to the minimum extent
necessary in order to preserve the transaction, as nearly as is possible, and to
most closely effectuate the Intent and the Intent Consideration, and to
otherwise effectuate the intention of the Parties as expressed in this
Agreement.
12. At the election of any Party, any matter not resolved amicably among the
Parties to the satisfaction of the other Parties, shall be subject to mandatory
binding arbitration, and the other Parties shall submit to arbitration. Within
ten (10) days of receipt of notice from the electing party, each Party shall
select an arbitrator, and within five (5) days thereafter the two (2) selected
arbitrators shall select a third arbitrator. The Parties hereby express their
desire that the arbitration be concluded on an expedited basis. The decision of
a majority of the arbitrators shall be considered the decision of all, except
that if no two can agree, then the decision of the arbitrator chosen by the
other two shall be considered the decision of all. Such arbitration shall
proceed in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American
Arbitration Association then pertaining (the "Rules"), insofar as such Rules are
not inconsistent with the provisions expressly set forth in this Agreement,
unless the parties mutually agree otherwise, and pursuant to the following
procedures: a) the minimum amount of discovery deemed necessary by the
arbitrators shall be allowed in arbitration; b) the costs and fees of the
arbitration, including attorneys' fees, shall be allocated by the arbitrators,
as they deem reasonably appropriate; c) the award rendered by the arbitrators
shall be binding on the Parties, shall be final, and judgment may be entered in
accordance with applicable law and in any court having
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jurisdiction thereof; d) the existence and resolution of the arbitration shall
be kept confidential by the Parties in the same manner as confidential
information is required to be kept under Paragraph 13 below, and shall also be
kept confidential by the arbitrators.
13. This Agreement, the negotiations leading to it, and the fact of the
Agreement, together with all terms and conditions of each (collectively the
"Negotiations"), shall be kept confidential, and treated as strictly
confidential pursuant to the Confidentiality Agreement previously entered into
between the Parties, unless and until the Negotiations are no longer required to
be kept confidential pursuant to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, or
if EchoStar sooner, in its sole discretion, determines that confidentiality is
no longer needed or is no longer possible with respect to all or certain
portions of the Negotiations. Notwithstanding the above, DBSD shall have the
right to disclose the fact of the existence of this Agreement, together with the
minimum amount of other information deemed necessary by counsel to DBSD, if
counsel in good faith determines that disclosure of the information is
necessary. Disclosure of such information shall be coordinated in advance with
EchoStar.
14. Each of the Parties hereby agrees to take or cause to be taken such
further actions, to execute, acknowledge, deliver, and file or cause to be
executed, acknowledged, delivered, and filed such further documents and
instruments, and to use best efforts to obtain such consents, as may be
necessary or as may be reasonably requested in order to fully effectuate the
purposes, terms, and conditions of this Agreement, whether before, at, or after
the occurrence of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
15. The invalidity of any provisions of this Agreement, or of any other
agreement or instrument given pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement
("Other Agreements") shall not affect the remaining portions of this Agreement
or the Other Agreements, all of which are inserted conditionally on their being
held valid in law. In the event any provisions of this Agreement or Other
Agreements are found to be invalid, or would operate to render this Agreement or
any Other Agreement invalid, this Agreement and such Other Agreements shall be
construed as if the invalid provisions had not been inserted, and the offending
provisions shall be rewritten to the minimum extent necessary in order to permit
their intent to be carried out as best as is possible without invalidity. The
Parties agree to promptly use their good faith best efforts to reflect in
writing any modification to this Agreement which may be necessary in order to
carry out the intentions of this provision.
16. It is the express intention and agreement of the Parties that all
covenants, agreements, statements, representations, and warranties made in this
Agreement shall survive execution of this Agreement.
17. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, this
Agreement may be modified or amended only by a writing executed by the parties
which, by its terms, expressly modifies, alters or amends any term or provision
contained herein.
18. Each party acknowledges that it has read, understands and agrees to the
terms and conditions of this Agreement. Each party represents that it has the
full power and authority to enter into this Agreement, and intends to be bound
by all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Further, each Party
acknowledges that the delivery of this Agreement by that Party has not been
induced by any representations, statements, warranties, or agreements other than
those expressly set forth herein.
19. To facilitate execution, this Agreement may be executed in as many
counterparts as may be required, and it shall not be necessary that the
signatures of, or on behalf of, each Party, or that the signatures of all
persons required to bind any Party, appear on each counterpart; but it shall be
sufficient that the signature of, or on behalf of, each Party, or that the
signatures of the persons required to bind any Party, appear on one or more of
the counterparts. This Agreement shall be binding and enforceable upon execution
of counterparts by all the Parties hereto, and such counterparts shall thereupon
collectively constitute a single agreement.
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20. The validity, interpretation and enforcement of this Agreement shall be
governed by the laws of the State of Colorado without giving effect to the
conflict of law principles thereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have duly executed this Agreement, or
have caused this Agreement to be duly executed on their behalf, as of the day
and year set forth above.
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION, a Delaware Corporation
By: /s/ HARLEY RADIN
-----------------------------------
Harley Radin, President
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
By: /s/ CHARLIE ERGEN
-----------------------------------
Charlie Ergen, President
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE
CORPORATION, a Colorado Corporation
By: /s/ CHARLIE ERGEN
-----------------------------------
Charlie Ergen, President
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ANNEX III
262 APPRAISAL RIGHTS. (a) Any stockholder of a corporation of this State
who holds shares of stock on the date of the making of a demand pursuant to
subsection (d) of this section with respect to such shares, who continuously
holds such shares through the effective date of the merger or consolidation, who
has otherwise complied with subsection (d) of this section and who has neither
voted in favor of the merger or consolidation nor consented thereto in writing
pursuant to Section 228 of this title shall be entitled to an appraisal by the
Court of Chancery of the fair value of his shares of stock under the
circumstances described in subsections (b) and (c) of this section. As used in
this section, the word "stockholder" means a holder of record of stock in a
stock corporation and also a member of record of a nonstock corporation; the
words "stock" and "share" mean and include what is ordinarily meant by those
words and also membership or membership interest of a member of a nonstock
corporation; and the words "depository receipt" mean a receipt or other
instrument issued by a depository representing an interest in one or more
shares, or fractions thereof, solely of stock of a corporation, which stock is
deposited with the depository.
(b) Appraisal rights shall be available for the shares of any class or
series of stock of a constituent corporation in a merger or consolidation to be
effected pursuant to Section 251 (other than a merger effected pursuant to
subsection (g) of section 251), 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 or 264 of this title:
(1) Provided, however, that no appraisal rights under this section shall
be available for the shares of any class or series of stock, which stock, or
depository receipts in respect thereof, at the record date fixed to
determine the stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the
meeting of stockholders to act upon the agreement of merger or
consolidation, were either (i) listed on a national securities exchange or
designated as a national market system security on an interdealer quotation
system by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held
of record by more than 2,000 holders; and further provided that no appraisal
rights shall be available for any shares of stock of the constituent
corporation surviving a merger if the merger did not require for its
approval the vote of the holders of the surviving corporation as provided in
subsection (f) of Section 251 of this title.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, appraisal rights
under this section shall be available for the shares of any class or series
of stock of a constituent corporation if the holders thereof are required by
the terms of an agreement of merger or consolidation pursuant to
SectionSection 251, 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this title to accept
for such stock anything except:
a. Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or resulting from
such merger or consolidation, or depository receipts in respect thereof,
b. Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository receipts
in respect thereof, which shares of stock or depository receipts at the
effective date of the merger or consolidation will be either listed on a
national securities exchange or designated as a national market system
security on an interdealer quotation system by the National Association
of Securities Dealer, Inc. or held of record by more than 2,000 holders;
c. Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository
receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a. and b. of this
paragraph; or
d. Any combination of the shares of stock, depository receipts and
cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository receipts
described in the foregoing subparagraphs a., b. and c. of this paragraph.
(3) In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware corporation
party to a merger effected under Section 253 of this title is not owned by
the parent corporation immediately prior to the merger, appraisal rights
shall be available for the shares of the subsidiary Delaware corporation.
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(c) Any corporation may provide in its certificate of incorporation that
appraisal rights under this section shall be available for the shares of any
class or series of its stock as a result of an amendment to its certificate of
incorporation, any merger or consolidation in which the corporation is a
constituent corporation or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of
the corporation. If the certificate of incorporation contains such a provision,
the procedures of this section, including those set forth in subsections (d) and
(e) of this section, shall apply as nearly as is practicable.
(d) Appraisal rights shall be perfected as follows:
(1) If a proposed merger or consolidation for which appraisal rights are
provided under this section is to be submitted for approval at a meeting of
stockholders, the corporation, not less than 20 days prior to the meeting,
shall notify each of its stockholders who was such on the record date for
such meeting with respect to shares for which appraisal rights are available
pursuant to subsections (b) or (c) hereof that appraisal rights are
available for any or all of the shares of the constituent corporations, and
shall include in such notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder
electing to demand the appraisal of his shares shall deliver to the
corporation, before the taking of the vote on the merger or consolidation, a
written demand for appraisal of his shares. Such demand will be sufficient
if it reasonably informs the corporation of the identity of the stockholder
and that the stockholder intends thereby to demand the appraisal of his
shares. A proxy or vote against the merger or consolidation shall not
constitute such a demand. A stockholder electing to take such action must do
so by a separate written demand as herein provided. Within 10 days after the
effective date of such merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting
corporation shall notify each stockholder of each constituent corporation
who has complied with this subsection and has not voted in favor of or
consented to the merger or consolidation of the date that the merger or
consolidation has become effective; or
(2) If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to
Section 228 or 253 of this title, the surviving or resulting
corporation, either before the effective date of the merger or consolidation
or within 10 days thereafter, shall notify each of the stockholders entitled
to appraisal rights of the effective date of the merger or consolidation and
that appraisal rights are available for any or all of the shares of the
constituent corporation, and shall include in such notice a copy of this
section. The notice shall be sent by certified or registered mail, return
receipt requested, addressed to the stockholder at his address as it appears
on the records of the corporation. Any stockholder entitled to appraisal
rights may, within 20 days after the date of mailing of the notice, demand
in writing from the surviving or resulting corporation the appraisal of his
shares. Such demand will be sufficient if it reasonably informs the
corporation of the identity of the stockholder at that the stockholder
intends thereby to demand the appraisal of his shares.
(e) Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation,
the surviving or resulting corporation or any stockholder who has complied with
subsections (a) and (d) hereof and who is otherwise entitled to appraisal
rights, may file a petition in the Court of Chancery demanding a determination
of the value of the stock of all such stockholders. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, at any time within 60 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder shall have the right to withdraw his demand for
appraisal and to accept the terms offered upon the merger or consolidation.
Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation, any
stockholder who has complied with the requirements of subsections (a) and (d)
hereof, upon written request, shall be entitled to receive from the corporation
surviving the merger or resulting from the consolidation a statement setting
forth the aggregate number of shares not voted in favor of the merger or
consolidation and with respect to which demands for appraisal have been received
and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. Such written statement shall
be mailed to the stockholder within 10 days after his written request for such a
statement is received by the surviving or resulting corporation or within 10
days after expiration of the period for delivery of demands for appraisal under
subsection (d) hereof, whichever is later.
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(f) Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder, service of a copy
thereof shall be made upon the surviving or resulting corporation, which shall
within 20 days after such service file in the office of the Register in Chancery
in which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing the names and
addresses of all stockholders who have demanded payment for their shares and
with whom agreements as to the value of their shares have not been reached by
the surviving or resulting corporation. If the petition shall be filed by the
surviving or resulting corporation, the petition shall be accompanied by such a
duly verified list. The Register in Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall
give notice of the time and place fixed for the hearing of such petition by
registered or certified mail to the surviving or resulting corporation and to
the stockholders shown on the list at the addresses therein stated. Such notice
shall also be given by 1 or more publications at least 1 week before the day of
the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of
Wilmington, Delaware or such publication as the Court deems advisable. The forms
of the notices by mail and by publication shall be approved by the Court, and
the costs thereof shall be borne by the surviving or resulting corporation.
(g) At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall determine the
stockholders who have complied with this section and who have become entitled to
appraisal rights. The Court may require the stockholders who have demanded an
appraisal for their shares and who hold stock represented by certificates to
submit their certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery for notation
thereon of the pendency of the appraisal proceedings; and if any stockholder
fails to comply with such direction, the Court may dismiss the proceedings as to
such stockholder.
(h) After determining the stockholders entitled to an appraisal, the Court
shall appraise the shares, determining their fair value exclusive of any element
of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the merger or
consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to be paid upon
the amount determined to be the fair value. In determining such fair value, the
Court shall take into account all relevant factors. In determining the fair rate
of interest, the Court may consider all relevant factors, including the rate of
interest which the surviving or resulting corporation would have had to pay to
borrow money during the pendency of the proceeding. Upon application by the
surviving or resulting corporation or by any stockholder entitled to participate
in the appraisal proceeding, the Court may, in its discretion, permit discovery
or other pretrial proceedings and may proceed to trial upon the appraisal prior
to the final determination of the stockholder entitled to an appraisal. Any
stockholder whose name appears on the list filed by the surviving or resulting
corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this section and who has submitted his
certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery, if such is required, may
participate fully in all proceedings until it is finally determined that he is
not entitled to appraisal rights under this section.
(i) The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of the shares,
together with interest, if any, by the surviving or resulting corporation to the
stockholders entitled thereto. Interest may be simple or compound, as the Court
may direct. Payment shall be so made to each such stockholder, in the case of
holders of uncertificated stock forthwith, and the case of holders of shares
represented by certificates upon the surrender to the corporation of the
certificates representing such stock. The Court's decree may be enforced as
other decrees in the Court of Chancery may be enforced, whether such surviving
or resulting corporation be a corporation of this State or of any state.
(j) The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the Court and taxed
upon the parties as the Court deems equitable in the circumstances. Upon
application of a stockholder, the Court may order all or a portion of the
expenses incurred by any stockholder in connection with the appraisal
proceeding, including, without limitation, reasonable attorney's fees and the
fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata against the value of all
the shares entitled to an appraisal.
(k) From and after the effective date of the merger or consolidation, no
stockholder who has demanded his appraisal rights as provided in subsection (d)
of this section shall be entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or to
receive payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock (except
dividends or other distributions payable to stockholders of record at a date
which is prior to
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the effective date of the merger or consolidation); provided, however, that if
no petition for an appraisal shall be filed within the time provided in
subsection (e) of this section, or if such stockholder shall deliver to the
surviving or resulting corporation a written withdrawal of his demand for an
appraisal and an acceptance of the merger or consolidation, either within 60
days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation as provided in
subsection (e) of this section or thereafter with the written approval of the
corporation, then the right of such stockholder to an appraisal shall cease.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, no appraisal proceeding in the Court of Chancery
shall be dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval of the Court, and
such approval may be conditioned upon such terms as the Court deems just.
(l) The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to which the shares
of such objecting stockholders would have been converted had they assented to
the merger or consolidation shall have the status of authorized and unissued
shares of the surviving or resulting corporation.
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PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN INFORMATION STATEMENT -- PROSPECTUS
ITEM 20. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
Chapter 78.751(1) of the Nevada Revised Statutes allows EchoStar to
indemnify any person made or threatened to be made a party to any action (except
an action by or in the right of EchoStar, a "derivative action"), by reason of
the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of EchoStar,
or is or was serving at the request of EchoStar as a director, officer, employee
or agent of another corporation, against expenses including attorneys' fees,
judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred
by him in connection with the action, suit or proceeding if he acted in a good
faith manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best
interests of EchoStar, and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no
reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful. Under Chapter
78.751(2), a similar standard of care applies to derivative actions, except that
indemnification is limited solely to expenses (including attorneys' fees)
incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of the action and court
approval of the indemnification is required where the person seeking
indemnification has been found liable to EchoStar. In addition, Chapter
78.751(5) allows EchoStar to advance payment of indemnifiable expenses prior to
final disposition of the proceeding in question. Decisions as to the payment of
indemnification are made by a majority of the Board of Directors at a meeting at
which a quorum of disinterested directors is present, or by written opinion of
special legal counsel, or by the stockholders.
Provisions relating to liability and indemnification of officers and
directors of EchoStar for acts by such officers and directors are contained in
Article IX of the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of EchoStar,
Exhibit 3.1(a) hereto and Article IX of EchoStar's Bylaws, Exhibit 3.2(a)
hereto, which are incorporated herein by reference. These provisions state,
among other things, that, consistent with and to the extent allowable under
Nevada law, and upon the decision of a disinterested majority of EchoStar's
Board of Directors, or a written opinion of outside legal counsel, or EchoStar's
stockholders: 1) EchoStar shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is
threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action,
suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative and
whether formal or informal (other than an action by or in the right of EchoStar)
by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee, fiduciary
or agent of EchoStar, or is or was serving at the request of EchoStar as a
director, officer, employee, fiduciary or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise,
against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid
in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with such
action, suit or proceeding, if he conducted himself in good faith and in a
manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of
EchoStar, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no
reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful; and 2) EchoStar shall
indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party
to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of
EchoStar to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he is or
was a director, officer, employee, fiduciary or agent of EchoStar, or is or was
serving at the request of EchoStar as a director, officer, employee or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or
other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and
reasonably incurred by him in connection with the defense or settlement of such
action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed
to be in or not opposed to the best interests of EchoStar and except that no
indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to
which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or
misconduct in the performance of his duty to EchoStar unless and only to the
extent that the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine
upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all
circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to
indemnity for such expenses which such court shall deem proper.
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ITEM 21. EXHIBITS.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEQUENTIALLY
EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION NUMBERED PAGE
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2.1 * Amended and Restated Agreement for Exchange of Stock and Merger, dated as of May
31, 1995, by and among EchoStar Communications Corporation, a Nevada corporation
formed in April 1995 ("EchoStar"), Charles W. Ergen and EchoStar (Incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Registration Statement Form S-1 of
EchoStar, Registration No. 33-91276).
2.2 * Agreement regarding purchase of debentures between Dish, Ltd. (formerly EchoStar
Communications Corporation, a Nevada corporation formed in December 1993
("Dish")), EchoStar and SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET"), dated March 14, 1994,
including Plan and Agreement of Merger, by and among Dish, DirectSat Merger
Corporation, DirectSat Corporation and SSE Telecom, Inc. ("SSET") (Incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
2.3 + Plan and Agreement of Merger made as of December 21, 1995 by and among EchoStar,
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Colorado corporation ("MergerCo") and
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("DBSC").
2.4 + Merger Trigger Agreement entered into as of December 21, 1995 by and among
EchoStar, MergerCo and DBSC.
3.1 (a)* Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of EchoStar (Incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 3.1(a) to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of EchoStar,
Registration No. 33-91276).
3.1 (b)* Bylaws of EchoStar (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1(b) to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of EchoStar, Registration No. 33-91276).
4.1 * Indenture of Trust between Dish and First Trust National Association ("First
Trust"), as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration
Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
4.2 * Warrant Agreement between EchoStar and First Trust, as Warrant Agent (incorporated
herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish,
Registration No. 33-76450).
4.3 * Security Agreement in favor of First Trust, as Trustee under the Indenture filed
as Exhibit 4.1 (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on
Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
4.4 * Escrow and Disbursement Agreement between Dish and First Trust (incorporated
herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish,
Registration No. 33-76450).
4.5 * Pledge Agreement in favor of First Trust, as Trustee under the Indenture filed as
Exhibit 4.1 herein (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement
on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
</TABLE>
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EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION NUMBERED PAGE
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4.6 * Intercreditor Agreement among First Trust, Continental Bank, N.A. and Martin
Marietta Corporation ("Martin Marietta") (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
4.7 * Series A Preferred Stock Certificate of Designation of EchoStar (Incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
EchoStar, Registration No. 33-91276).
4.8 * Registration Rights Agreement by and between EchoStar and Charles W. Ergen
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Registration Statement on
Form S-1 of EchoStar, Registration No. 33-91276).
4.9 * Indenture of Trust between EchoStar Satellite Broadcasting Corporation ("ESBC")
and First Trust, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No. 0-26176).
4.10 * Security Agreement of ESBC in favor of First Trust, as Trustee under the Indenture
filed as Exhibit 4.9 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the
Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No. 0-26176).
4.11 * Escrow and Disbursement Agreement between ESBC and First Trust (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar,
Commission File No. 0-26176).
4.12 * Pledge Agreement of ESBC in favor of First Trust, as Trustee under the Indenture
filed as Exhibit 4.9 herein (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No. 0-26176).
4.13 * Pledge Agreement of EchoStar in favor of First Trust, as Trustee under the
Indenture filed as Exhibit 4.9 hereunder (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 4.13 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No.
0-26176).
4.14 * Registration Rights Agreement by and between ESBC, EchoStar, Dish, MergerCo and
Donald, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 4.14 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No.
0-26176)
5.1 + Opinion of David Moskowitz regarding legality of securities being registered.
8.1 Opinion of Sullivan & Worcester LLP regarding certain tax consequences of the
Merger [3 pages].
10.1 (a)* Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of February 6, 1990, between EchoStar
Satellite Corporation ("ESC") and Martin Marietta Corporation as successor to
General Electric EchoStar, Astro-Space Division ("General Electric") (incorporated
herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish,
Registration No. 33-76450).
</TABLE>
II-3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEQUENTIALLY
EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION NUMBERED PAGE
- ----------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------
<C> <S> <C>
10.1 (b)* First Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of October 2,
1992, between ESC and Martin Marietta as successor to General Electric
(incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.1 (c)* Second Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of October 30,
1992, between ESC and Martin Marietta as successor to General Electric
(incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.1 (d)* Third Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of April 1, 1993,
between ESC and Martin Marietta (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.1 (e)* Fourth Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of August 19,
1993, between ESC and Martin Marietta (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.1 (f)* Form of Fifth Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, between ESC and
Martin Marietta (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on
Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-81234).
10.1 (g)* Sixth Amendment to the Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of June 7, 1994,
between ESC and Martin Marietta (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-81234).
10.2 * Satellite Launch Contract, dated as of September 27, 1993, between ESC and the
China Great Wall Industry Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.3 * Distributor Agreement, dated as of July 30, 1993, between Echosphere Corporation
("Echosphere") and Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. (incorporated herein by
reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No.
33-76450).
10.4 * Master Purchase and License Agreement, dated as of August 12, 1986, between
Houston Tracker Systems, Inc. ("HTS") and Cable/Home Communications Corp. (a
subsidiary of General Instruments Corporation) (incorporated herein by reference
to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.5 * Master Purchase and License Agreement, dated as of June 18, 1986, between
Echosphere and Cable/Home Communications Corp. (a subsidiary of General
Instruments Corporation) (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration
Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.6 * Merchandise Financing Agreement, dated as of June 29, 1989, between Echo
Acceptance Corporation ("EAC") and Household Retail Services, Inc. (incorporated
herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish,
Registration No. 33-76450).
</TABLE>
II-4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEQUENTIALLY
EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION NUMBERED PAGE
- ----------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------
<C> <S> <C>
10.7 * Key Employee Bonus Plan, dated as of January 1, 1994 (incorporated herein by
reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No.
33-76450).
10.8 * Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 17, 1994, between ESC and Telesat
Canada (incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1
of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.9 * Form of Satellite Launch Insurance Declarations (incorporated herein by reference
to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.10 * Dish 1994 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.11 * Form of Tracking, Telemetry and Control Contract between AT&T Corporation and ESC
(incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-81234).
10.12 * Manufacturing Agreement, dated as of March 22, 1995, between HTS and SCI
Technology, Inc. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K of Dish, Commission File No. 33-81234).
10.13 * Manufacturing Agreement, dated as of April 14, 1995, by and between ESC and Sagem
Group. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Registration
Statement on Form S-1 of EchoStar, Registration No. 33-91276).
10.14 Confidential Amendment to contract between DBSC and Martin Marietta Corp. effective
as of May 31, 1995.
10.15 Amendment No. 9 to contract between DirectSat Corporation and Martin Marietta
Corporation effective as of January 31, 1995.
11 * Computation of Earnings Per Sharse for fiscal year ended December 31, 1995
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 11 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K
of EchoStar, Commission File No. 0-26176).
21 * List of EchoStar Subsidiaries (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 21 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar, Commission File No. 0-26176).
23.1 Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP. [1 page]
23.2 Consent of Regardie, Brooks & Lewis, Chartered, Certified Public Accountants [1
page]
23.3 + Consent of David Moskowitz - Included in Exhibit 5.1.
23.4 Consent of Sullivan & Worcester LLP - Included in Exhibit 8.1.
24 + Powers of Attorney authorizing signature of Charles W. Ergen, R. Scott Zimmer,
James DeFranco, J. Allen Fears and Steven B. Schaver. [2 pages]
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
+ Previously filed
* Incorporated by reference
(b) Financial Statement Schedules.
None.
ITEM 22. UNDERTAKINGS
(a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of
the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing
II-5
<PAGE>
provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of
the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event
that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the
payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or
controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action,
suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person
in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless
in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and
will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests for
information that is incorporated by reference into the Information Statement --
Prospectus pursuant to items 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one
business day of receipt of such request, and to send the incorporated documents
by first class mail or other equally prompt means. This includes information
contained in the documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the
registration statement through the date of responding to the request.
(c) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of a
post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the registration statement when it became effective.
II-6
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the
Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Englewood,
State of Colorado, as of September 19, 1996.
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS
CORPORATION
By: /s/ J. ALLEN FEARS
-----------------------------------
J. Allen Fears
VICE PRESIDENT, TREASURER AND
CONTROLLER
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this
Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following
persons in the capacities and as of the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- ------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------- -----------------
*/s/ CHARLES W. ERGEN Chief Executive Officer, President and September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Director
Charles W. Ergen (Principal Executive Officer)
*/s/ STEVEN B. SCHAVER Vice President and Chief Financial September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Officer
Steven B. Schaver (Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ J. ALLEN FEARS Vice President, Treasurer and Corporate September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Controller (Principal Accounting
J. Allen Fears Officer)
*/s/ JAMES DEFRANCO Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
James DeFranco
*/s/ R. SCOTT ZIMMER Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
R. Scott Zimmer
*/s/ ALAN M. ANGELICH Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
Alan M. Angelich
*/s/ RAYMOND L. FRIEDLOB Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
Raymond L. Friedlob
*By: /s/ J. ALLEN FEARS
--------------------------------------
J. Allen Fears
ATTORNEY-IN-FACT
</TABLE>
II-7
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the
Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Englewood,
State of Colorado, as of September 19, 1996.
ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS
CORPORATION
By: /s/ J. ALLEN FEARS
-----------------------------------
J. Allen Fears
VICE PRESIDENT, TREASURER AND
CONTROLLER
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this
Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following
persons in the capacities and as of the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- ------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------- -----------------
* Chief Executive Officer, President and September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Director
Charles W. Ergen (Principal Executive Officer)
* Vice President and Chief Financial September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Officer
Steven B. Schaver (Principal Financial Officer)
Vice President, Treasurer and Corporate September 19, 1996
------------------------------------------- Controller (Principal Accounting
J. Allen Fears Officer)
* Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
James DeFranco
* Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
R. Scott Zimmer
* Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
Alan M. Angelich
* Director September 19, 1996
-------------------------------------------
Raymond L. Friedlob
*By:
--------------------------------------
J. Allen Fears
ATTORNEY-IN-FACT
</TABLE>
II-7
<PAGE>
[LETTERHEAD]
August 23, 1996
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
1155 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., 4th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20036
The Shareholders of Direct Broadcasting
Satellite Corporation
c/o Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
1155 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., 4th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20036
Ladies and Gentlemen:
You have requested our opinion as to certain federal income tax
consequences of the transaction referred to below. This opinion is delivered
in connection with the Plan and Agreement of Merger dated as of December 21,
1995, by and among Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a Delaware
corporation ("DBSC"), EchoStar Communications Corporation, a Nevada
corporation ("EchoStar"), and Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation, a
Colorado corporation and a subsidiary of EchoStar ("MergerCo"). The Plan and
Agreement of Merger, and all other agreements expressly contemplated thereby,
are collectively referred to herein as the "Merger Agreement". Capitalized
terms herein have the same meaning they have in the Merger Agreement, except
as otherwise defined herein. This opinion letter replaces our opinion letter
dated July 10, 1996.
FACTS. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, DBSC will be merged with and
into MergerCo, and the issued and outstanding shares of DBSC owned by the
shareholders of DBSC will be exchanged for voting common stock of EchoStar.
The Merger will be carried out in accordance with the terms of the Merger
Agreement.
REPRESENTATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS. Written representations, copies of
which are attached hereto, have been made by certain shareholders of DBSC and
(at the time of signing of the Merger Agreement) by the appropriate officers
of DBSC and EchoStar, and we have without independent verification relied
upon such representations in rendering our opinions.
<PAGE>
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
August 23, 1996
Page 2
In addition, we have, with the permission of DBSC, EchoStar, MergerCo
and the DBSC stockholders, assumed the following facts to be true, and we
have without independent verification relied upon such assumptions in
rendering our opinions:
1. The written representations provided by EchoStar and MergerCo at the
time of signing of the Merger Agreement will continue to be accurate at the
time of the Merger Closing.
2. No consideration for the Merger has been or will be provided by
EchoStar or any EchoStar subsidiary to DBSC or to the stockholders of DBSC,
other than as expressly provided for in the Merger Agreement.
3. No dividends or distributions have been made or will be made with
respect to any stock of DBSC immediately prior to the transactions described
in the Merger Agreement.
4. The payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares of EchoStar common
stock is solely for the purpose of avoiding the expense and inconvenience to
EchoStar of issuing fractional shares and does not represent
separately-bargained-for consideration. The total cash consideration that
will be paid in the Merger to the stockholders of DBSC instead of issuing
fractional shares of EchoStar will not exceed one percent (1%) of the total
consideration that will be issued in the Merger to the stockholders of DBSC
in exchange for their shares of DBSC stock. The fractional share interests
of each holder of DBSC stock will be aggregated and no stockholder of DBSC
will receive cash in an amount equal to or greater than the value of one full
share of EchoStar common stock.
5. At the time of the Merger Closing, MergerCo has no plan or intention
to issue any warrants, options, convertible securities, or any other type of
right pursuant to which any person could acquire stock in MergerCo that, if
exercised or converted, would result in EchoStar losing control of MergerCo.
OPINIONS. Based on the foregoing facts, representations, and
assumptions, and assuming the accuracy thereof, we are of the opinion that,
for federal income tax purposes:
1. The Merger will qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of
Sections 368(a)(1)(A) and 368(a)(2)(D) of the Code.
2. EchoStar, MergerCo and DBSC will each be "a party to a
reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code.
3. No gain or loss will be recognized by DBSC upon the transfer of its
assets to MergerCo in the Merger. Sections 357 and 361 of the Code.
<PAGE>
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
August 23, 1996
Page 3
4. No gain or loss will be recognized by either EchoStar or MergerCo
upon MergerCo's receipt of DBSC's assets in the Merger. Section 1032 of the
Code and Treasury Regulation SEction 1.1032-2.
5. No gain or loss will be recognized by a DBSC shareholder upon his
receipt of EchoStar common stock in exchange for DBSC stock surrendered
therefor in the Merger, and a DBSC shareholder's basis in his EchoStar common
stock received will be the same as his basis in the DBSC stock surrendered
therefor in the Merger.
6. The payment of cash in lieu of fractional EchoStar shares will be
treated as if fractional EchoStar shares had been issued in the Merger, and
then such fractional shares were redeemed with cash distributions in full
payment in exchange for the stock redeemed, as provided in Section 302(a) of
the Code. Sections 354 and 358 of the Code; Revenue Ruling 66-365, 1966-2
C.B. 116, and Revenue Procedure 77-41, 1977-2 C.B. 574.
7. The holding period of EchoStar stock to be received by a DBSC
shareholder will include the holding period of his DBSC stock surrendered in
exchange therefor in the Merger, provided the DBSC stock was held as a
capital asset on the date of the Merger. Section 1223(1) of the Code.
MISCELLANEOUS. The foregoing opinions are based on the Code as in
effect on the date hereof and administrative and judicial interpretations of
it. No assurance can be given that the Code will not change or that such
interpretations will not be revised or amended adversely, possibly with
retroactive effect. This opinion is intended solely for the benefit and use
of DBSC and the DBSC stockholders, and is not to be used, released, quoted or
relied upon by anyone else for any purpose (other than as required by law)
without our prior written consent.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with and as a part of
the Registration Statement on Form S-4 and to the reference to our firm under
the caption "The Merger -- Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences" in the
Information Statement-Prospectus filed as part of the Registration
Statement. In giving such consent we do not thereby admit that we come
within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of
the Securities Act of 1933 or the rules and regulations promulgated
thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Sullivan & Worcester LLP
SULLIVAN & WORCESTER LLP
<PAGE>
CONFIDENTIAL
AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT
BETWEEN
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE CORPORATION
(HEREINAFTER "BUYER")
and
MARTIN MARIETTA CORPORATION
(HEREINAFTER "CONTRACTOR")
This Modification No. 8 is effective as of the 31st day of May, 1995.
WITNESS-THAT:
WHEREAS, on May 31, 1995 Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation
("Buyer") and Martin Marietta Corporation ("Contractor"), mutually agree to
amend the subject Contract to:
- initiate construction of Spacecraft Flight #1, effective May 31, 1995,
- initiate construction of Spacecraft Flight #2, effective May 31, 1996,
- incorporate new pricing for two 2100AX Satellites,
- incorporate Long March launch vehicle compatibility for both
Spacecraft Flights #1 and #2,
- establish a revised payment profile effective May 31, 1995,
- delete the previous terms and conditions and substitute the attached
terms and conditions,
- establish a 26 month delivery schedule with revised liquidated damages
provisions for Spacecraft Flights #1 and #2, and
- establish a revised termination liability schedule for Spacecraft
Flights #1 and #2.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions
contained herein, Buyer and Contractor agree to modify the Contract as
follows:
1
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Table of Contents is deleted and replaced with the following:
ARTICLE
- -------
1 Scope of Work
2 Equipment and Services to be Furnished and Prices Therefor
3 Delivery Schedule
4 Payment
5 Definitions
6 (Reserved)
7 Inspection and Final Acceptance
8 Title and Assumption of Risk
9 Access to Work
10 Progress Meetings, Presentations, and Documentation Deliverables
11 Rights in Data
12 Public Release of Information
13 Indemnification
14 Patent Indemnity
15 Indemnification for Taxes
16 Excusable Delays
17 Termination for Default
18 Termination for Convenience
19 Changes
20 Assignment
21 Warranty
22 Arbitration
2
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE
- -------
23 Applicable Law
24 Entre Agreement
25 Disclosure and Use of lnformation by the Parties
26 Effective Date
27 Permits and Licenses
28 Limitation of Liability
29 Spacecraft Test and Handling Equipment
30 Liquidated Damages
31 Spacecraft Storage
32 Options
33 (Reserved)
34 Insurance
3
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 1. SCOPE OF WORK
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
The Contractor shall provide the necessary personnel, material, services, and
facilities to perform work in accordance with the provisions of this Contract,
including the EXHIBITS listed below, which are attached hereto and made a part
hereof, and to make delivery to Buyer as set forth in ARTICLE 2 hereof in
accordance with the delivery schedule specified in ARTICLE 3 hereof:
- EXHIBIT A1 DBSC 1 Statement of Work (SOW) Rev. 1
- EXHIBIT A2 DBSC 2 Statement of Work (SOW) Rev. 1
- EXHIBIT B1 DBSC 1 Spacecraft Performance Specification Rev. 1
- EXHIBIT B2 DBSC 2 Spacecraft Performance Specification Rev. 1
- EXHIBIT C DBSC Comprehensive Test Plan Rev. 1
- EXHIBIT D DBSC Product Assurance Program Plan Rev. 1
In the event of any inconsistency among or between the parts of this Contract
set forth above, such inconsistency shall be resolved by giving precedence in
the order of the parts as set forth below:
1. Terms & Conditions, Satellite Contract Dated March 29, 1990, as
amended
2. DBSC Statement of Work, EXHIBIT A
3. DBSC Spacecraft Performance Specification, EXHIBIT B
4. DBSC Comprehensive Test Plan, EXHIBIT C
5. Product Assurance Program Plan, EXHIBIT D
4
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 2. EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES TO BE FURNISHED AND PRICES THEREFOR
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Upon the full, satisfactory and timely completion and delivery, as
required, of each item of work specified below, and acceptance by Buyer
thereof in accordance with the requirements of this Contract, Contractor
shall be entitled to payment by Buyer of the applicable fixed price
specified below, as such price may be adjusted in accordance with the
provisions of the Contract, except that the portion related to the In-Orbit
payments, as defined in ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs B.2 and C.2, shall
be paid as set forth in ARTICLE 4. The prices stated below, which are
inclusive of In-Orbit payments provided in ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs
B.2 and C.2, include all transportation and related charges for delivery of
Spacecraft and associated equipment to destination. Except as otherwise
provided for herein, the prices stated below include all applicable taxes
and all copyright and patent rights necessary to effectuate this Contract.
Sales, use, income and personal property taxes will be the responsibility
of the Buyer.
ITEM QUANTITY DESCRIPTION TOTAL PRICE
---- -------- ----------- -----------
1. 1 Spacecraft Flight #1 as defined $ 80,838,500
in EXHIBIT B
2. 1 Spacecraft Flight #2 as defined $ 80,500,000
in EXHIBIT B
5
<PAGE>
3. 1 Lot Launch and Mission Operation Included in item 1
Support for Spacecraft Flight #1 above
as defined in EXHIBIT A
4. 1 Lot Launch and Mission Operation Included in item 2
Support for Spacecraft Flight #2 above
as defined in EXHIBIT A
5. 1 Lot Incentive Payments, present Included in items
value as defined in ARTICLE 4., 1 & 2 above.
paragraph C.
-------------------
TOTAL PRICE $161,338,500
B. The Spacecraft will include some imported goods. In the event the
Spacecraft and its included imported goods are not exported in a timely
manner due to the actions or inactions of Buyer, any duties and penalties
arising therefrom will be the responsibility of Buyer. Contractor shall
pay such above duties and penalties as may be required by law to be so paid
and Buyer agrees to reimburse the Contractor for payments so made.
C. Prices specified above do not include any costs for security services for
Spacecraft located at the designated launch site. Should the U.S.
Government, or any other government entity having legal or regulatory
launch responsibility, require Seller to provide such security services,
Seller shall promptly notify Buyer, in writing, to that effect and Buyer
shall reimburse Seller for all costs reasonably incurred in providing such
services, including a reasonable profit, within thirty (30) days of receipt
of Seller's invoice.
6
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 3. DELIVERY SCHEDULE
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. Delivery of Spacecraft Flights #1 and #2 shall be made at Contractor's
expense to the Long March Xichang Launch Site, Peoples Republic of China.
The term "Destination" as used herein shall refer to the Long March Xichang
Launch Site. Buyer can elect to change the delivery location of Spacecraft
Flight #1 on or before July 31, 1995. In the event Buyer elects to change
the delivery location, Buyer shall be entitled to a credit in the amount of
$400,000 if the delivery location is Kourou, French Guiana, and $700,000
if the delivery location is Cape Kennedy, Florida.
B. Delivery shall be as indicated below:
ITEM DESCRIPTION DELIVERY DATE
---- ----------- -------------
1. Spacecraft Flight #1, as defined in July 31, 1997
EXHIBIT B
2. Spacecraft Flight #2, as defined in July 31, 1998
EXHIBIT B
7
<PAGE>
3. Launch and Mission Operation October 30, 1997
Support Services for Spacecraft
Flight #1
4. Launch and Mission Operation October 30, 1998
Support Service for Spacecraft
Flight #2
8
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 4. PAYMENT
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. The total price stipulated in ARTICLE 2, EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES TO BE
FURNISHED AND PRICES THEREFOR, shall be paid by Buyer to Contractor in
accordance with the payment arrangements specified in the following Payment
Plans. The amounts specified in the Payment Plans shall in each case be
paid by Buyer to Contractor on the dates indicated. Contractor shall submit
an invoice for each payment approximately thirty (30) days in advance of
the payment due date. Payment to Contractor shall be made by cable transfer
to Pittsburgh National Bank, ABA #0430-0009-6, 210 6th Avenue, Pittsburgh,
PA 15222, for Contractor's corporate account number 3-710964.
B. Spacecraft Flight #1 PAYMENT PLAN
1. The construction payments applicable to Spacecraft Flight #1 shall be
made as follows:
9
<PAGE>
PAYMENT PLAN
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAYMENT CUMULATIVE
NUMBER DUE DATE AMOUNT $ AMOUNT $
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Through Design Definition Phase - May 30 338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 May 31, 1995 500,000 838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 June 30, 1995 1,000,000 1,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 December 29, 1995 16,000,000 17,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 January 31, 1996 2,500,000 20,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 February 29, 1996 2,500,000 22,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 March 29, 1996 2,500,000 25,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 April 30, 1996 2,500,000 27,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 May 31, 1996 2,500,000 30,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9 June 28, 1996 2,500,000 32,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10 July 31, 1996 2,500,000 35,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11 August 30, 1996 2,500,000 37,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 September 30, 1996 2,500,000 40,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13 October 30, 1996 2,500,000 42,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14 November 29, 1996 2,500,000 45,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 December 31, 1996 2,500,000 47,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
16 January 31, 1997 2,500,000 50,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17 February 28, 1997 2,500,000 52,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
18 March 31, 1997 2,500,000 55,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
19 April 30, 1997 2,500,000 57,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 May 30, 1997 2,500,000 60,338,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
21 June 30, 1997 1,700,000 62,038,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
22 July 31, 1997 1,500,000 63,538,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
23 August 29, 1997 900,000 64,438,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
24 September 30, 1997 1,000,000 65,438,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 October 31, 1997 400,000 65,838,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. In addition to the construction payments required above, Buyer shall pay
Spacecraft In-Orbit payments in the amount of
10
<PAGE>
$15,000,000. The Spacecraft In-Orbit payments shall be made in accordance
with the requirements set forth in paragraph D. of this ARTICLE.
C. SPACECRAFT FLIGHT #2 PAYMENT PLAN
1. The construction payments applicable to Spacecraft Flight #2 shall
be made as follows:
PAYMENT PLAN
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAYMENT CUMULATIVE
NUMBER DUE DATE AMOUNT $ AMOUNT $
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 May 31, 1996 2,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 June 28, 1996 3,000,000 5,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 July 31, 1996 4,000,000 9,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 August 30, 1996 4,000,000 13,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 September 30, 1996 4,000,000 17,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 October 30, 1996 3,500,000 21,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 November 29, 1996 3,500,000 24,550,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 December 31, 1996 3,000,000 27,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9 January 31, 1997 3,000,000 30,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10 February 28, 1997 3,000,000 33,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11 March 31, 1997 2,500,000 36,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 April 30, 1997 2,500,000 38,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13 May 30, 1997 2,500,000 41,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14 June 30, 1997 2,000,000 43,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 July 31, 1997 2,000,000 45,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
16 August 29, 1997 2,000,000 47,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17 September 30, 1997 2,000,000 49,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
18 October 31, 1997 1,700,000 50,7OO,OOO
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11
<PAGE>
------------------------------------------------------------------------
19 November 28, 1997 1,500,000 52,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 December 21, 1997 1,500,000 53,700,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
21 January 30, 1998 1,500,000 55,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
22 February 27, 1998 1,500,000 56,700,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
23 March 31, 1998 1,500,000 58,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
24 April 30, 1998 1,500,000 59,700,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 May 29, 1998 1,500,000 61,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
26 June 30, 1998 900,000 62,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
27 July 31, 1998 1,000,000 63,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
28 August 31, 1998 1,000,000 64,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
29 September 30, 1998 1,000,000 65,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 October 30, 1998 400,000 65,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. In addition to the construction payments required above, Buyer shall
pay Spacecraft In-Orbit payments in the amount of $15,000,000. The
Spacecraft In-Orbit payments shall be made in accordance with the
requirements set forth in paragraph D. of this ARTICLE.
D. The Spacecraft In-Orbit payments, contained in paragraphs B.2 and C.2 of
this ARTICLE, shall be paid over a maximum of five (5) years from launch.
The specific repayment period shall be determined by Buyer ninety (90) days
prior to launch. Buyer shall have the right to pre-pay the In-Orbit
payments at any time without penalty. The In-Orbit payments will accrue
interest at the WALL STREET JOURNAL prime rate from the date sixty (60)
days after launch until full payment has been received by Martin Marietta.
For purposes of determining the WALL STREET JOURNAL prime rate, Buyer shall
elect ninety (90) days prior to the Scheduled Launch Date whether to fix
the rate at the rate published in THE WALL STREET JOURNAL on such date or
to float the rate over the entire repayment period. In the event Buyer
elects to float
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the rate, the initial rate shall be the rate published in THE WALL STREET
JOURNAL ninety (90) days prior to the Scheduled Launch Date. Thereafter,
the rate shall be adjusted on the first business day of every sixth month
thereafter. The In-Orbit payments will be repaid on an equal monthly basis
(principal and interest) until full payment has been received by
Contractor. The In-Orbit payments, including the interest thereon, will be
secured by an irrevocable letter of credit from a reputable financial
institution or by other adequate security that is reasonably acceptable to
Contractor. The security will be established and submitted to Contractor
not later than ninety (90) days prior to the Scheduled Launch Date.
E. 1. During construction and prior to launch, Buyer grants Contractor a full
security interest in all hardware, software and work in process,
including, without limitation, all parts, assemblies, subsystems,
systems and Spacecraft (collectively "Security"). In the event of
Buyer's default pursuant to ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT,
Contractor shall immediately assume ownership of the entire Security.
Contractor, on behalf of Buyer, may take whatever steps are necessary
to effectuate transfer of ownership. Upon such transfer of ownership,
Buyer shall have no further interest in or rights to such Security.
2. The Buyer represents and warrants that:
a. the Buyer is the owner of the Security and has authorized the grant
of a security interest in the Security to Contractor, and
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b. no effective Uniform Commercial Code financing statement or other
instrument similar in effect covering all or any part of the
Security is on file in any recording office.
3. The Buyer covenants and warrants that unless compliance is waived by
Contractor in writing:
a. the Buyer shall not create, incur, assume or suffer to exist,
directly or indirectly, any mortgage, pledge, hypothecation,
encumbrances, assignment, lien (statutory or other) or preference
or priority or other security agreement of any kind or nature
whatsoever ("Liens") upon any of the Security, except the security
interest created hereby in favor of Contractor, without giving
Contractor sixty (60) days prior notice of the intended creation of
such Liens;
b. Contractor shall have the right to file Uniform Commercial Code
financing statements at any time during the term of this Contract
to perfect the security interest granted under this Contract. In
the event Contractor exercises the right to file Uniform Commercial
Code financing statements, the Buyer agrees to execute any
financing statement, amended financing statements, continuation
statements or other documents from time to time which are deemed
reasonably necessary by Contractor to create, perfect, confirm or
validate the security interest granted under this Contract.
F. Failure to make any payments required hereunder, or the taking of any
action which restricts Contractor's unencumbered right to the Security set
forth in paragraph E.1 above shall constitute a default by Buyer
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subject to the provisions of ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT, paragraph
F.
G. 1. For each Spacecraft delivered by Contractor which, following Launch,
does not achieve Successful injection, as defined in ARTICLE 5,
DEFINITIONS, Contractor shall be entitled to receive for:
Spacecraft Flight #1 $15,000,000
Spacecraft Flight #2 $15,000,000
2. In the event Buyer is obligated to make payment to Contractor in
accordance with paragraph G.1 above, payment shall be due within ten
(10) days from Buyer's receipt of the insurance proceeds required by
ARTICLE 34, INSURANCE.
3. The above amounts shall be adjusted to reflect any changes in the
In-Orbit payment amounts set forth in paragraph B.2 and C.2 of this
ARTICLE.
H. In the event the Spacecraft is not launched within one hundred eighty (180)
days after delivery and final acceptance, as extended on a day-for-day
basis for any Contractor caused late delivery of the Spacecraft, in
accordance with ARTICLE 7, INSPECTION AND FINAL ACCEPTANCE, Buyer shall
commence making In-Orbit payments in accordance with the above as though
launch of such Spacecraft had occurred.
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I. 1. The Payment Plan set forth in paragraph B. of this ARTICLE is based on
Contractor's successful and timely achievement of each milestone set
forth below. In the event that Contractor does not achieve any
Milestone on or before the date set forth below, Buyer may suspend
construction payments until such time as the Milestones are completed.
Within five (5) days following Contractor's completion of any such
Milestone, Buyer shall pay Contractor for all payments that were
required to have been made but were not as a result of the suspension.
MILESTONE TABLE
MILESTONE DATE DESCRIPTION
--------- -------- ----------------------
1. 6 Months SPDR
2. 8 Months Long Lead Parts
identified in Martin
Marietta letter dated
7 June 1995, Ordered
3. 10 Months SCDR
4. 18 Months Completion of
Propulsion Subsystem
5. 20 Months Delivery of All
TWTAs to I&T
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6. 22 Months Begin Single Line Flow
7. 24 Months Thermal Vacuum Testing
2. The dates in the Milestone Table represent months from payment No. 1 in
paragraph B. of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT.
3. The above Milestone Table shall be Buyer's sole measurement of whether
Contractor is making adequate progress toward completion of the
Spacecraft required hereunder.
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ARTICLE 5. DEFINITIONS
DELETE the text in the ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
LAUNCH
The official time designated by the launching agency during the launch sequence
when any of the first stage main engines of the launch vehicle are ignited for
the purpose of launch.
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ARTICLE 6. INCENTIVE PAYMENTS
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace with new ARTICLE 6. to read:
ARTICLE 6. (RESERVED)
19
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ARTICLE 7. INSPECTION AND FINAL ACCEPTANCE
DELETE the text of the ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. INSPECTION
Buyer, or its designated representative shall have the right to witness and
review the results of the final acceptance testing at the system level of
the deliverable hardware at the facilities of Martin Marietta. To allow
Buyer to most effectively schedule the monitoring stated above, Contractor
shall give Buyer timely notification of the acceptance testing of the
deliverable hardware.
B. FINAL ACCEPTANCE
Final acceptance of the items to be delivered hereunder shall be in
accordance with the requirements of this Contract, including the EXHIBITS.
Delivery and acceptance shall be as provided herein.
1. The Spacecraft furnished under this Contract shall be tested by
Contractor, and in the case of Spacecraft to be delivered to storage,
shall be finally accepted by Buyer upon demonstration at Contractor's
facility, prior to delivery of Spacecraft to storage, by means of test
results obtained pursuant to the test requirements set forth in
EXHIBIT C, that the Spacecraft meets the performance specifications
set forth in EXHIBIT B.
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2. In the case of Spacecraft delivered for launch, upon arrival of Spacecraft
at the launch site, as required by EXHIBIT A Contractor shall promptly
conduct an inspection and, if required, test the Spacecraft, in accordance
with the requirements of EXHIBIT C, in the presence of Buyer. Buyer shall
either finally accept the Spacecraft in writing or notify Contractor in
writing of those particulars in which the Spacecraft to be delivered does
not meet the requirements of this Contract. Upon remedy of such
particulars to meet the requirements of this Contract, the Spacecraft shall
be deemed to have been delivered and finally accepted.
3. Final acceptance of non-Spacecraft items shall take place after delivery by
Contractor to the destination and, if required, completion of installation
and inspection. Buyer shall either finally accept the item(s) in writing
or notify Contractor in writing of those particulars in which the items to
be delivered do not meet the requirements of this Contract. Upon remedy of
such particulars to meet the requirements of this Contract, the item
involved shall be deemed to have been delivered and finally accepted.
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ARTICLE 8. TITLE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Unless otherwise stated herein, the following shall apply:
1 Title and risk of loss or damage to a Spacecraft shall pass to Buyer
at Launch, except that title and risk of loss or damage to a
Spacecraft delivered to storage shall pass as set forth in ARTICLE 31,
SPACECRAFT STORAGE.
2. Title and risk of loss or damage to non-Spacecraft items shall pass to
Buyer upon final acceptance.
B. Buyer agrees to cause its insurer(s) to waive all rights of subrogation
against Contractor and its officers, agents, servants, subsidiaries and
employees.
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ARTICLE 9. ACCESS TO WORK
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. For the purpose of observing the quality of Contractor's performance of
work, Contractor shall afford a limited number of Buyer's personnel
access to all work in process at Contractor's facility. Contractor will
request and attempt to obtain similar access to work related to Buyer's
Spacecraft that is being performed at Contractor's major subcontractors.
B. Information disclosed to Buyer pursuant to this ARTICLE shall be subject
to the limitations set forth in ARTICLE 25, DISCLOSURE AND USE OF
INFORMATION BY THE PARTIES.
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ARTICLE 10. PROGRESS MEETINGS, PRESENTATIONS AND DOCUMENTATION DELIVERABLES
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. MEETINGS AND PRESENTATIONS
In addition to any other meetings called for under the provisions of this
Contract and without limitation thereto, Contractor shall provide the
manpower, facilities, materials and support required to conduct the
following periodic meetings and presentations:
1. Informal Project Manager meetings.
2. Technical Review meetings as determined by Contractor's Project
Manager.
Copies of view graphs or other documents utilized during these meetings
shall be furnished or be made available to Buyer.
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B. DISTRIBUTION OF REPORTS
All materials, reports and documentation furnished pursuant to this ARTICLE
shall be the property of Buyer subject to the limitations set forth in
ARTICLE 25, DISCLOSURE AND USE OF INFORMATION BY THE PARTIES, except that,
Contractor or its subcontractors may retain copies for their own purposes,
including the using of such materials and reports in the performance of
other contracts.
C. CORRESPONDENCE
All correspondence, including notices, reports and documentation
deliverables, to be provided to Buyer or Contractor under this Contract
shall be sent to Buyer or Contractor as follows:
Direct Broadcasting Satellite Martin Marietta Corporation
Corporation Astro-Space Division
4401-A Connecticut Avenue, NW P.O. Box 800
Suite 400 Princeton, N.J. 08543-0800
Washington, DC 20008
Attention: Mr. H. W. Radin Attention: Mr. Dan M. Kalin
Phone: 202-966-5800 Phone: 609-490-2305
Telecopy: 202-364-2288 Telecopy: 609-490-3395
TWX: 510-685-2652
Telex: 84-3548
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D. The only representatives of Buyer and Contractor authorized to sign
contractual documents are:
BUYER CONTRACTOR
Mr. H. W. Radin Mr. R. McFall
Mr. R. Amadio
Mr. S.D. Overly
&
Mr. D. Kalin
Or others authorized Or others authorized
by written delegation by written delegation
of the DBSC of Dr. A. Horvath
Board of Directors
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ARTICLE 11. RIGHTS IN DATA
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Except as provided in paragraph B. below, Buyer shall have an unlimited
right to use, duplicate, and disclose the information contained in the
Programming and Control Handbook furnished pursuant to EXHIBIT A; however,
if any written material furnished as part of said document is copyrighted,
Buyer shall have an unlimited right to make copies of such copyrighted
material and to use such copies for any Buyer purpose without payment of
additional compensation to Contractor to the extent that Contractor has the
authority to grant such right. In the event Contractor does not have such
right, Contractor will exert its best efforts to obtain such rights for
Buyer.
B. All data that are or may be delivered or disclosed by either party to the
other shall be subject to ARTICLE 25, DISCLOSURE AND USE OF INFORMATION BY
THE PARTIES.
C. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, the ownership and title to
copyrights and in computer programs and its related documentation delivered
to Buyer by Contractor in accordance with this Contract shall remain in
Contractor or its licensor. Contractor shall grant to Buyer a paid up non-
exclusive, non-transferable license to use (including "to duplicate" and
"to adapt") solely for the Buyer Program, the copies of computer programs
and its related documentation specified in the Contract required for the
operation of ARTICLES deliverable under this Contract.
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ARTICLE 12. PUBLIC RELEASE OF INFORMATION
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
During the term of this Contract, neither party, its affiliates, subcontractors,
employees, agents and consultants shall release items of publicity of any kind,
including, without limitation, news releases, articles, brochures,
advertisements, prepared speeches, company reports or other information
releases, related to the work performed hereunder, including the denial or
confirmation thereof, without the other party's prior written consent which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.
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ARTICLE 13. INDEMNIFICATION
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. Each party shall indemnify and hold the other party and its officers,
agents, servants, subsidiaries and employees, or any of them harmless from
any loss, damage, liability or expense, resulting from damage to all
property, private or public, and injuries, including death, to persons
caused by any act or omission of the indemnifying Party and/or the
indemnifying Party's agents or representatives at any tier or any of them,
and at its expense shall resist, defend or settle any suits or other
proceedings brought against the indemnified Party and/or its officers,
agents, servants, subsidiaries and employees, or any of them, on account
thereof, and shall pay all expenses and satisfy all judgments which may be
incurred by or rendered against them, in connection therewith. At the
request of the indemnifying party, the indemnified party shall provide such
assistance and information as may be required by the indemnifying party.
Either Party shall have the right to settle any claim or litigation against
which it indemnifies hereunder.
B. Further and notwithstanding any other provision hereof, Buyer shall
indemnify and hold harmless Contractor, its officers, agents, subsidiaries,
and employees from any liabilities, losses and damages including costs,
expenses and damages incurred by Contractor in connection with any and all
claims after passage of title thereto to Buyer which shall occur in
accordance with the ARTICLE 8, TITLE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK, except any
such liabilities, losses and damages that are caused by the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of Contractor. Buyer shall furnish
Contractor with a waiver of its insurance carriers' rights of subrogation
and with insurance obligations
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under this ARTICLE. Such insurance shall also provide that the
insurers shall give thirty (30) days prior notice to Contractor prior to
the effective date of cancellation or termination of such insurance.
C. Contractor shall not be liable to Buyer, customers of Buyer or their
customers for any damages resulting: (i) any loss or destruction of the
Spacecraft or (ii) failure of the Spacecraft or its subsystems to operate
satisfactorily. Buyer agrees to enter into suitable agreements with its
customers to effect the foregoing limitation of Contractor's liability.
Buyer also agrees to cause insurers to waive all right of subrogation
against Contractor and its employees. The foregoing shall not relieve
Contractor of its obligations under ARTICLE 21, WARRANTY, of correction or
replacement during the warranty period set forth in such ARTICLE.
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ARTICLE 14. PATENT INDEMNITY
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Contractor shall defend Buyer from and against all claims, actions, suits
and proceedings alleging that the manufacture of any Spacecraft, delivered
under this Contract or the use, lease, sale or other disposition of any
such Spacecraft infringes any U.S. patent, and shall pay any final judgment
or settlement, provided Contractor is given prompt written notice of any
such claim, action, suit or proceeding and full authority to resist, defend
and settle such claim. Buyer shall provide at Contractor's request such
assistance and information as may be required by Contractor.
B. If an injunction or other order is obtained against the manufacture, use,
lease, sale or other disposition of any Spacecraft hereunder, Contractor
agrees to use its best efforts either to procure rights so that such
Spacecraft and the manufacture, use, lease, sale or other disposition
thereof is no longer infringing or to modify or replace such Spacecraft so
that it is no longer subject to such order. In the event that such
injunction or order becomes permanent and that neither of the foregoing
alternatives is suitably accomplished and Contractor is unable to
reasonably perform its obligations hereunder, Buyer may proceed under
ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT.
C. While neither Party presently contemplates Buyer's providing Contractor
with any designs, specifications or instructions, in the event Buyer does
provide any designs, specifications or instructions, Buyer shall indemnify
and hold Contractor harmless against any expense, judgment or loss for
infringement of any U.S. patents or
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trademarks which result from Contractor's compliance with such designs,
specifications or instructions.
D. No sales or lease hereunder shall convey any license by implication,
estoppel or otherwise, under any proprietary or patent rights of Buyer, to
practice any process with such product or part, or for the combination of
such product or part with any other product or part.
E. Contractor shall not be liable for any costs or expenses incurred without
Contractor's written authorization and in no event shall Contractor's total
liability to Buyer under, or as a result of compliance with, the provisions
of this ARTICLE exceed the aggregate Spacecraft price for all Spacecraft
under construction or delivered. Contractor shall in no event be
liable for loss of use or for incidental, indirect, or consequential
damages, whether in Contract or in tort. The foregoing states the entire
Warranty by Contractor and the exclusive remedy of Buyer, with respect to
any alleged patent infringement by such product or part.
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ARTICLE 15. INDEMNIFICATION FOR TAXES
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
Contractor shall assume responsibility, and shall save Buyer, its officers,
agents, employees, servants, subsidiaries and assignees, or any of them,
harmless from taxes (exclusive of sales, use, income and personal property
taxes), which may be required under present federal, state, or local laws and
which become due by reason of the performance of work under this Contract, and
shall execute and deliver such other and further documents, and comply with such
requirements of said laws, as may be necessary thereunder to confirm and
effectuate this Contract, including making of payment of any interest or
penalties related to or arising from such taxes.
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ARTICLE 16. EXCUSABLE DELAYS
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
Without limiting any other provision specifying what constitutes an excusable
delay under this Contract, acts of God or of the public enemy; acts of the
Government in its sovereign or contractual capacity, including Government
priorities, allocations, regulations or orders affecting materials, facilities,
or completed Spacecraft (including changes in the launch specifications in
effect on the Date of this Amendment); fires; floods; snowstorms; earthquakes;
epidemics; quarantine restrictions; strikes; wars; freight embargoes; or any
other events which cause failure or delay to perform hereunder, and in every
case are beyond the reasonable control and without fault or negligence of
Contractor hereunder shall constitute an excusable delay, if notice thereof is
given to Buyer as soon as possible but in no event later than within thirty (30)
days after such event shall have occurred. In the event of a delay resulting
from any of the above causes, the delivery requirements shall be extended for
the period of the excusable delay.
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ARTICLE 17. TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT
DELETE the text of the ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. Buyer may, by written Notice of Default sent by registered letter to
Contractor, terminate the whole or any part of this Contract in any one of
the following circumstances:
1. If Contractor fails to make delivery of the supplies or to perform the
services within the time specified herein.
2. If Contractor fails to perform any of the other provisions of this
Contract or so fails to make progress as to endanger performance of
this Contract in accordance with its terms, and in either of these two
circumstances does not act to correct such failure within a period of
thirty (30) days (or such longer period as Buyer may authorize in
writing) after receipt of notice from Buyer specifying such failure.
B. To the extent the Contract is terminated under this ARTICLE, Buyer shall
use all reasonable efforts to utilize all work in process hereunder in
order to mitigate any costs sustained by Buyer as a result of
Contractor's default. Contractor will pay to Buyer all costs reasonably
incurred by Buyer in obtaining all of the work described in ARTICLE 2,
EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES TO BE FURNISHED AND PRICES THEREFORE, paragraph
A., according to the schedule set forth in ARTICLE 3, DELIVERY SCHEDULE,
paragraph B., provided that Buyer enters into a Contract for such work
within twelve (12) months of Contractor's default.
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C. If this Contract is terminated as provided in this ARTICLE, Contractor
shall:
1. be paid the Contract price for items delivered.
2. be paid the cost plus reasonable profit for work in process, materials
in stock and services for which Buyer takes delivery.
3. protect and preserve property in the possession of Contractor in which
Buyer has an interest.
D. The remedies set forth in this ARTICLE shall be the sole recourse to which
Buyer is entitled in the event of Contractor's default, and Contractor
shall have no liability for special, indirect, incidental or consequential
damages for lost profits or lost revenues.
E. Subsequent to final acceptance of each of the Spacecraft pursuant to
paragraph B. of ARTICLE 7, INSPECTION AND FINAL ACCEPTANCE, the provisions
of this ARTICLE shall not affect payment of In-Orbit payments under the
terms of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs B.2 and C.2, and ARTICLE 2,
EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES TO BE FURNISHED AND PRICES THEREFORE.
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F. In the event Buyer fails to perform any obligation which it is required to
perform pursuant to this Contract, Contractor may, if such failure is not
corrected within thirty (30) days after written notice of such failure is
given by Contractor, stop work on this Contract and consider this entire
Contract to be terminated due to the default of Buyer. Contractor shall be
entitled to compensation as set forth in ARTICLE 18, TERMINATION FOR
CONVENIENCE. Further, Contractor shall also be entitled to all of the
Security set forth in ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraph E.1.
G. If, after notice of termination of the Contractor's right to proceed under
the provisions of this ARTICLE, it is determined for any reason that the
Contractor was not in default under the provisions of this ARTICLE, or that
the delay was excusable under the provisions of ARTICLE 16, EXCUSABLE
DELAYS, the rights and obligations of the Parties shall be the same as if
notice of termination had been issued pursuant to ARTICLE 18, TERMINATION
FOR CONVENIENCE.
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ARTICLE 18. TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Buyer, by written notice to Contractor, may terminate this Contract in
whole, or in part, for any reason or for Buyer's Convenience at any
time prior to final acceptance of all the work. In the event of
termination by the Buyer, it is agreed that the termination charges shall
be negotiated but shall not exceed the total of the Total Price for the
Spacecraft so terminated as set forth in ARTICLE 2, EQUIPMENT AND
SERVICES TO BE FURNISHED AND PRICES THEREFORE, hereof. The termination
charges shall include the total costs, both direct and indirect,
reasonably incurred by Contractor with respect to termination and
settlement with all vendors and subcontractors, plus a profit of fifteen
(15) percent. Buyer shall maintain the required Security set forth in
ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraph E., until all claims are satisfied.
B. Direct and indirect costs shall be determined in accordance with
Contractor's standard accounting practice and shall be verified, at
Buyer's expense, by an independent Certified Public Accounting firm
to be mutually agreed upon by the Buyer and Contractor.
C. Buyer shall pay Contractor the aforesaid termination charges within thirty
(30) days following the submission of an invoice. Upon payment of
Contractor's invoice, Contractor shall deliver to Buyer all termination
inventory which has not been credited by Contractor against the termination
charges set forth in paragraph D.2 below. In the event Contractor's invoice
is not paid within thirty (30) days following submission, Buyer shall be in
default pursuant to ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT, paragraph F.
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D. Final payment shall be in the amount of the total termination charges,
less the following:
1. Amounts previously paid by Buyer to Contractor with respect to the
terminated work pursuant to ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, hereof; and
2. Amounts representing the total of Contractor's costs with respect to
the terminated work of segregable items of inventory not desired by
Buyer and which Contractor elects to retain for its use.
In the event the amount set forth in this paragraph D. above exceeds the
termination charges defined in paragraph A. of this ARTICLE, Contractor
shall promptly refund such excess to Buyer.
E. The provisions of this ARTICLE shall not affect the payment of In-Orbit
payments under the terms of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs B.2 and C.2,
with respect to the Spacecraft.
F. Contractor agrees to use all reasonable efforts to assist Buyer in
disposing/selling of the work in process upon termination pursuant to this
ARTICLE.
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ARTICLE 19. CHANGES
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
Buyer may, from time to time between the effective date and completion of this
Contract, by written change order issued by Buyer, make changes within the
general scope of this Contract in drawings, designs, specifications, method of
shipment or packing quantities of items to be furnished, place of delivery,
postpone delivery, require additional work, or direct the omission of work. If
any such change causes an increase or decrease in costs of, or the time required
for, the performance of this Contract, an equitable adjustment shall be made in
the price, or delivery schedule, or both, and any other affected provision, and
this Contract shall be modified in writing accordingly. Any claim by Contractor
for adjustment under this paragraph shall be deemed waived unless asserted in
writing within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt by Contractor of the
change order. The amount of the claim shall be stated when it is submitted, or
at a later date, not to exceed sixty (60) days from the date for assertion of
the claim, which later date shall be requested at the time of such submission.
All changes and equitable adjustments pursuant to this ARTICLE shall be
subject to negotiation between and approval by both Parties prior to the
implementation of any such change. Except for Excusable Delays pursuant to
ARTICLE 16, EXCUSABLE DELAYS, none of the Contract dates will change unless
authorized by Buyer.
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ARTICLE 21. WARRANTY
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. Contractor warrants that the goods or services furnished hereunder shall be
free from any defects in material or workmanship.
B. Buyer shall have the right at any time during the period of this warranty
and irrespective of prior inspections or acceptance to reject any goods or
services not conforming to the above warranty and require that Contractor
at its expense, correct or replace as promptly as is reasonably possible,
at Contractor's option, such goods or services with conforming goods or
services.
C. For the Spacecraft, this warranty shall run for a period of one (1) year
from the date of final acceptance by Buyer OR Launch, WHICHEVER IS SOONER.
D. Except for the Spacecraft, this warranty shall run for a period of one
(1) year from the date of final acceptance by Buyer.
E. Contractor shall pass on or assign to Buyer all warranties on goods or
services given by suppliers or manufacturers other than Contractor to the
extent to which Contractor is permitted by the terms of its purchase
Contracts with such suppliers or manufacturers.
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F. THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER STATUTORY,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CONTRACTOR SHALL HAVE
NO OTHER LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY
OR OTHER LEGAL OR EQUITABLE THEORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, ANY LIABILITY FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OR FOR BUYER'S COST OF EFFECTING COVER, OR FOR
FAILURE OR NONPERFORMANCE OF PROPERTY OR FOR LOST PROFIT OR REVENUES.
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ARTICLE 22. ARBITRATION
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. Any dispute or disagreement arising between the Parties in connection with
any interpretation of any provision of this Contract, or the compliance or
non-compliance therewith, or the validity or enforceability thereof, or any
other dispute under any ARTICLE hereof which is not settled to the mutual
satisfaction of the Parties within thirty (30) days (or such longer period
as may be mutually agreed upon) from the date that either party informs the
other, in writing, that such dispute or disagreement exists, shall be
settled by arbitration in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules
of the American Arbitration Association, in effect on the date that such
notice is given.
B. Either party which demands arbitration of the controversy shall, in
writing, specify the matter to be submitted to arbitration and, at the same
time, choose and nominate a competent person to act as an arbitrator;
thereupon, within fifteen (15) days after receipt of such written notice,
the other party to this agreement shall, in writing, choose and nominate a
competent arbitrator. The two arbitrators so chosen shall meet and
endeavor to resolve the question in dispute, and, if they agree upon such
determination, the determination so made shall be in writing and signed by
both arbitrators. If such two arbitrators fail to agree, they shall
forthwith select a third arbitrator, giving written notice to both Parties
of the choice so made and fixing a time and place at which both Parties may
appear and be heard with respect to such controversy. In case the two
arbitrators shall fail to agree upon a third arbitrator within a period of
seven (7) days, or if for
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any other reason there shall be a lapse in the naming of an arbitrator or
arbitrators, or in the filling of a vacancy, or in the event of failure or
refusal of any arbitrator or arbitrators to attend or fulfill his or their
duties, then upon application by either Party to the controversy, an
arbitrator or arbitrators shall be named by the American Arbitration
Association.
C. The arbitration award made shall be final and binding upon the Parties and
judgment may be entered thereon, upon the application of either Party by
any court having jurisdiction. The relief that may be awarded by the
arbitrators under any arbitration arising from this Contract may not exceed
actual compensatory damages. In no event may the arbitrators award punitive
damages.
D. Each party shall bear the cost of preparing and presenting its case, and
the cost of arbitration, including the fees and expenses of the arbitrator
or arbitrators, will be shared equally by the Parties unless the award
otherwise provides.
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ARTICLE 23. APPLICABLE LAW
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
A. This Contract shall be interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws
of the State of New York.
B. This Contract is subject to all applicable laws and regulations and each
Party agrees to comply with all such applicable laws and regulations.
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ARTICLE 24. DISCLOSURE AND USE OF INFORMATION BY THE PARTIES
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 24 as
follows:
ARTICLE 24. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties and
supersedes all prior understandings, commitments, and representations with
respect to the subject matter. It may not be amended, modified, or terminated
(other than as specifically provided in the ARTICLES hereof), and none of its
provisions may be waived, except by a writing signed by an authorized
representative of the Party against which the amendment, modification,
termination or waiver is sought to be enforced. The paragraph headings
herein shall not be considered in interpreting the text of this Contract.
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ARTICLE 25. EFFECTIVE DATE
DELETE this ARTICLE 25 in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 25 as
follows:
ARTICLE 25. DISCLOSURE AND USE OF INFORMATION BY THE PARTIES
A. If documents supplied by one party to the other are marked with a
proprietary legend, the receiving party shall take all necessary steps to
ensure that the documents and contents of such documents are not disclosed
to any person other than a person employed or engaged by the receiving
party, whether under subcontract or otherwise, for the performance of this
Contract. Any such document supplied hereunder shall be returned to the
disclosing party together with any copies thereof promptly upon written
request of the disclosing party, except for one copy to be retained for
legal purposes. Whenever the receiving party makes copies of such
proprietary documents for performance of work covered by this Contract, the
receiving party shall mark each such copy as proprietary to the disclosing
party.
B. Any disclosure to any person permitted under paragraph A. of this ARTICLE
shall be made under the same conditions that apply to the initial
disclosure and shall extend only so far as may be necessary for the
purposes of this Contract. Any such disclosure to a person other than an
employee of the receiving party shall be made pursuant to a written
confidential disclosure agreement or with prior written approval of the
disclosing party.
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C. Except with the written consent of the disclosing party, the receiving
party shall not make use of any document mentioned in paragraph A. of this
ARTICLE other than for the purposes of this Contract.
D. The obligations and restrictions imposed by this ARTICLE shall not apply to
the following:
1. Information that is or becomes available to the public from a source
other than the receiving party, before or after the effective date of
this Contract.
2. Information that is authorized for release in writing by the
disclosing party.
3. Information that is lawfully obtained by the receiving party from a
third party.
4. Information that is known by the receiving party prior to such
disclosure.
5. Information that is, at any time, developed by the receiving party
completely independently of any disclosure or disclosures from the
disclosing party.
6. Information that is reasonably necessary to support a patent
application, the subject matter of which belongs to the receiving party
and which the receiving party discloses to an appropriate Patent Agent
or Patent Office and/or Court of any country in pursuance thereof.
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E. Neither party shall be liable for inadvertent or accidental disclosure of
such information marked as proprietary if such disclosure occurs despite
both Parties exercising reasonable efforts to preserve and safeguard such
information.
F. Neither party shall be liable for the disclosure of any technical
information of the other party pursuant to any legally enforceable
requirement of the U.S. Government, or any agency or department thereof.
G. No license, under any patents, is granted or implied by merely conveying
data or information under this Contract.
H. Any proprietary disclosure to either party, if made orally, or visually,
shall be identified at the time of disclosure and shall be promptly
confirmed in writing by the disclosing party and identified as proprietary
information, if the disclosing party wishes to keep such information
proprietary under this Contract.
I. The obligations of this ARTICLE shall be effective for a period of three
(3) years from the date of termination or expiration of this Contract.
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ARTICLE 26. PERMITS AND LICENSES
DELETE this ARTICLE 26 in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 26 as
follows:
ARTICLE 26. EFFECTIVE DAIE
The term Effective Date of the Contract (EDC), as used in this Contract, shall
mean the 29th day of March 1990.
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ARTICLE 27. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 27 as
follows:
ARTICLE 27. PERMITS AND LICENSES
A. This Contract is subject to all applicable U.S. laws and regulations
relating to the export of Spacecraft, technical data and other equipment
and services being furnished pursuant to, or to be utilized in connection
with, this Contract (hereinafter in this ARTICLE referred to as "Licensed
Items") and to all applicable laws and regulations of the country or
countries to which Spacecraft, technical data, and other equipment and
services are exported or are sought to be exported.
B. Contractor shall use its best efforts to obtain such U.S. Government
approvals and licenses for export of the "Licensed Items." Buyer shall not
be liable for any additional cost associated with Contractor processing any
export license application necessary for delivery of any Spacecraft.
C. If, within a reasonable time, the U.S. Government fails to grant a required
approval or license to Contractor to export the "Licensed Items" or revokes
or suspends such an approval or license subsequent to its grant, or grants
such a license or approval subject to conditions, this Contract shall,
nevertheless, remain in full force and effect. In the event of such U.S.
Government action or inaction, deliveries and acceptance of all items to be
furnished by Contractor shall be made at locations within the continental
U.S. as agreed upon between the
52
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Parties. Such U.S. Government action or inaction shall not otherwise
modify in any way the rights and obligations of the Parties under this
Contract except to relieve Contractor of any obligations which cannot be
performed without such an approval or license and to make the price and
delivery schedule subject to equitable adjustment in accordance with
ARTICLE 19, CHANGES, to reflect the obligations of which Contractor is
relieved.
D. If, within a reasonable time, any foreign country or countries to which
such "Licensed Items" are sought to be exported fails to grant a required
approval or license or, suspends or revokes a required approval or license
subsequent to its grant, or grants a license subject to conditions, or if
any foreign country or countries to which such "Licensed Items" are
exported fails to grant an approval or licenses to utilize the "Licensed
Items" for the purpose for which exported, this Contract shall,
nevertheless, remain in full force and effect. In the event of such
foreign country or countries action or inaction, deliveries and acceptance
of all items to be furnished by Contractor shall be made at locations
within the continental U.S. as agreed upon between the Parties. Such
foreign government action or inaction shall not otherwise modify in any way
the rights and obligations of the Parties under this Contract except to
relieve Contractor of any obligations which cannot be performed without
such an approval or license and to make the price and delivery schedule
subject to equitable adjustment in accordance with ARTICLE 19, CHANGES, to
reflect the obligations of which Contractor is relieved.
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ARTICLE 28. SPACECRAFT TEST AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 28 as
follows:
ARTICLE 28. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
In no event shall Contractor be liable, whether in Contract, tort or otherwise,
for special, incidental, indirect or consequential damages, including, without
limitation, failure or non-performance of property or for lost profit or
revenues.
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ARTICLE 29. SECONDARY MARKET
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 29 as
follows:
ARTICLE 29. SPACECRAFT TEST AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Contractor shall provide Spacecraft unique test and handling equipment at the
Launch Site, during the period between delivery of the Spacecraft to the Launch
Site, and final acceptance for use in connection with the inspection and final
acceptance of the Spacecraft pursuant to ARTICLE 7, INSPECTION AND FINAL
ACCEPTANCE. Title to such equipment shall remain with Contractor.
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ARTICLE 30. LIQUIDATED DAMAGES
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. Contractor acknowledges that its failure to deliver Spacecraft Flight #1
and/or Spacecraft Flight #2 to the launch site on or before the delivery
dates set forth in ARTICLE 3, DELIVERY SCHEDULE, may cause serious damage
to Buyer, the amount of which may be difficult or impossible to prove.
1. The amount of such Liquidated Damages applicable to Spacecraft Flight
#1 shall be as follows:
a. In the event delivery occurs between August 1, 1997 and August
31, 1997, the rate of $3,333 per day shall apply, however, in no
event shall the amount of Liquidated Damages under this
subparagraph 1.a. exceed $1OO,000.
b. In the event delivery occurs on September 1, 1997 or thereafter,
the rate of $33,333 per day shall apply for every day after
August 31, 1997, in addition to the Liquidated Damages set forth
in subparagraph 1.a. above. However, in no event shall the
amount of Liquidated Damages under this subparagraph 1.b. exceed
$4,900,000 for Spacecraft Flight #1.
2. The amount of such Liquidated Damages applicable to Spacecraft Flight
#2 shall be as follows:
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a. In the event delivery occurs between August 1, 1998 and August
31, 1998, the rate of $3,333 per day shall apply, however, in no
event shall the amount of Liquidated Damages under this
subparagraph 2.a. exceed $100,000.
b. In the event delivery occurs after September 1, 1998 or
thereafter, the rate of $33,333 per day shall apply for every
day after August 31, 1998, in addition to the Liquidated Damages
set forth in subparagraph 1.b above. However, in no event shall
the total amount of Liquidated Damages under this subparagraph
2.b. exceed $4,900,000 for Spacecraft Flight #2.
The total amount of Liquidated Damages applicable to this
Contract shall not exceed a cumulative total of $5,000,000 for
each Spacecraft. Contractor and Buyer agree that such
liquidated damages, without further proof of same, shall be
deemed to represent the damages actually sustained by reason of
such delay.
B. The liquidated damages are intended to be compensatory and do not
constitute a penalty.
C. These amounts are firm, fixed and not subject to adjustment due to changes
in economic conditions. The Contractor's total liability for late delivery
shall not exceed the specified liquidated damages per Spacecraft.
D. Any interval of excusable delays as defined in ARTICLE 16, EXCUSABLE
DELAYS, shall be excluded from the period for which liquidated damages
accrue. However, such time period shall continue
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at the conclusion of the excluded interval as if no such interruption had
occurred.
E. In the event Contractor is required to pay Buyer Liquidated Damages as
provided in this ARTICLE, the amount of any such payment shall be applied
against (reduce) the In-Orbit payments associated with the applicable
Spacecraft as set forth in ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs B.2 and C.2, or,
prior to final acceptance of each of the Spacecraft pursuant to paragraph
B. of ARTICLE 7, INSPECTION AND FINAL ACCEPTANCE, payable immediately in
the event the Contract is terminated pursuant to either ARTICLE 17,
TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT, or ARTICLE 18, TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE.
F. In the event that the dry mass of any Spacecraft supplied by the Contractor
exceeds the value for maximum allowable satellite dry mass of 1629
kilograms, the Contractor shall pay Buyer as Liquidated Damages an amount
of $10,000 for each kilogram (and fraction of kilogram) that the dry mass
of any such Spacecraft exceeds the dry mass specified herein, which payment
shall be considered as payment for excess mass. However, in no event shall
the total amount of Liquidated Damages under this paragraph F. exceed
$1,000,000.
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ARTICLE 31. LIQUIDATED DAMAGES
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 31 as
follows:
ARTICLE 31. SPACECRAFT STORAGE
A. If as a result of a delay or failure to launch, through no fault of
Contractor, Buyer requests Contractor to store the Spacecraft within sixty
(60) days of completion of inplant acceptance testing, the Contractor shall
store, at a site designated by Buyer and such site shall be subject to the
approval of Contractor, or if no site is designated by Buyer, at a site
designated by Contractor, one or more of the Spacecraft delivered under
this Contract. Title and risk of loss to the Spacecraft to be stored shall
pass to Buyer after the first six (6) months of storage and storage shall
commence on that date on a month-to-month basis. The cost for the first
six (6) months of storage shall be the responsibility of Contractor.
Should the Spacecraft remain in storage beyond the six (6) month period,
the provisions of ARTICLE 8 "TITLE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK" shall apply, and
the Buyer shall be responsible for all storage costs (in excess of six (6)
months). Buyer shall be responsible, except in the event of negligence or
willful misconduct by the Contractor, for all transportation cost and
insurance to cover the risk and expense of loss or damage of the Spacecraft
in transit, (i) from Contractor's facility to storage, (ii) from its
facility to the-storage site, (iii) from the storage site to the launch
site or (iv) if necessary, from the storage site to the refurbishment site
and then to the launch site.
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B. Upon the request of Buyer, the Contractor shall provide periodic testing,
necessary equipment, and environmental maintenance suitable for prevention
of deterioration to the Spacecraft during the period of storage. The cost
for such service shall be subject to ARTICLE 19, CHANGES, and shall be
negotiated upon the request of such services by Buyer. Any deterioration
to a Spacecraft while in storage shall be at Buyer's risk and shall be
corrected at Buyer's expense, unless such deterioration is to be corrected
by the Contractor under ARTICLE 21, WARRANTY.
C. If at any time after storage begins, Buyer elects to launch the stored
Spacecraft, the Contractor shall inspect, test and refurbish as necessary
such Spacecraft to a launch-ready condition and arrange for transit to the
launch site as directed by Buyer. The cost for such services shall be
subject to ARTICLE 19, CHANGES and shall be negotiated in good faith by
the Contractor and Buyer at the time such services are required.
Notwithstanding anything in this ARTICLE, Contractor will be responsible
for transportation from Contractor's facility or any other Contractor
selected facility to the launch site as set forth in ARTICLE 3, DELIVERY
SCHEDULE, paragraph A., provided that such transportation occurs within
six (6) months of successful completion of inplant acceptance testing.
D. In the event a Spacecraft is placed into storage as a result of paragraph
A. above, Contractor shall be entitled to commencement of the In-Orbit
payments associated with such Spacecraft in accordance with the provisions
of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that
Contractor's late delivery of the Spacecraft is the sole cause of the
Spacecraft having to be placed into storage, the In-Orbit payments shall
commence at the earlier of sixty (60) days
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after Spacecraft launch or twenty-four (24) months from the placement of
the Satellite into storage.
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ARTICLE 32. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 32 as
follows:
ARTICLE 32. OPTIONS
Buyer may, at its option to be exercised in writing within twelve (12) months
from May 31, 1995, direct the Contractor to design, develop, fabricate, test,
deliver and install the Satellite Control Facility (SCF) for Spacecraft Flight
#1. Contractor shall deliver and install all necessary equipment (excluding
RF uplink antennas and amplifiers) for the SCF to Cheyenne, Wyoming, plus all
training necessary to permit Buyer's staff to properly control the Satellite.
The Contractor will further provide drawings to enable maintenance and repair
and a recommended list of spare parts and unique consumable supplies required to
maintain the SCF for the first year of operations.
Buyer will be responsible for the procurement of the site, civil works, building
services to include non-interruptable power sources, and all necessary permits
and licenses no later than July 31, 1996.
Contractor shall ship all necessary hardware by August 31, 1996 and complete
acceptance testing by November 30, 1996. Training of Buyer's staff shall be
completed no later than May 31, 1997, subject to buyer providing staff to be
trained no earlier than December 1, 1996 and no later than March 15, 1997.
The price for this SCF option is $3,800,000.
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ARTICLE 33. OPTIONS
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 33 as
follows:
ARTICLE 33. (RESERVED)
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ARTICLE 34. SATELLITE CONTROL NETWORK
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with a new ARTICLE 34 as
follows:
ARTICLE 34. INSURANCE
A. In order to protect against financial losses associated with the risks
between Launch and continuing for five (5) years thereafter, Buyer, as the
representative party insured, shall enter into an insurance contract,
naming the Contractor as a party insured and covering the In-Orbit payments
specified in ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, paragraphs B.2 and C.2. Buyer shall bear
all responsibility for payment of insurance premiums associated with the
aforementioned insurance policy.
B. The details of the insurance Contract referred to in the preceding
paragraph shall be reasonably acceptable to Contractor.
C. When the Buyer applies for insurance regarding risks relating to the
launching of the Spacecraft, the Contractor shall furnish Buyer with such
information regarding the Spacecraft as is requested by the insurers.
D. When, after taking delivery of the Spacecraft, the Buyer applies for
insurance regarding risks of the Spacecraft's malfunctioning or
nonperformance during the life span specified for it in the Performance
Specifications, Contractor shall furnish the Buyer with such information
regarding the Spacecraft as is requested by the insurers.
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E. When Buyer obtains such insurance, Buyer agrees to cause its insurer(s) to
waive all rights of subrogation against Contractor and its officer, agents,
servants, subsidiaries and employees.
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ARTICLE 35. LONG LEAD PARTS PROCUREMENT (LLPP)
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety.
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<PAGE>
ARTICLE 36. LAUNCH VEHICLE SERVICES OPTION
DELETE this ARTICLE in its entirety.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment No. 8 to the
Contract.
DIRECT BROADCASTING SATELLITE MARTIN MARIETTA CORPORATION
CORPORATION
By: /s/ H. W. RADIN By: /s/ [ILLEGIBLE]
--------------------------- ----------------------------
H. W. Radin
Title: Chairman and Chief Title: Vice President
Executive Commercial Programs
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AMENDMENT NO. 9 TO CONTRACT
BETWEEN
DIRECTSAT CORPORATION
(HEREINAFTER "BUYER")
and
MARTIN MARIETTA CORPORATION
(HEREINAFTER "CONTRACTOR")
This Amendment is effective as of the 31st day of January 1995.
WITNESS THAT:
WHEREAS, DirectSat Corporation ("Buyer") and Martin Marietta Corporation
("Contractor"), mutually agree to amend the subject Contract to:
- -- revise TABLE OF CONTENTS;
- -- add ARTICLE 4A SPACECRAFT IN-ORBIT PAYMENT SECURITY;
- -- revise ARTICLE 10 PROGRESS MEETINGS, PRESENTATIONS, AND DOCUMENTATION
DELIVERABLES;
- -- revise ARTICLE 19 CHANGES;
- -- revise the signature block.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions
contained herein, Buyer and Contractor agree to modify the Contract as
follows:
Preamble-1
<PAGE>
The Table of Contents is revised to include ARTICLE 4A SPACECRAFT IN-ORBIT
PAYMENT SECURITY.
Add ARTICLE 4A. as follows:
ARTICLE 4A. SPACECRAFT IN-ORBIT PAYMENT SECURITY.
A. For purposes of Spacecraft Flight #1, and the first spacecraft flight
constructed by another DISH Ltd. (f/k/a EchoStar Communications
Corporation) (DISH) subsidiary (the First Two Flights), and not as a
precedent for any other spacecraft flights, the In-Orbit payments,
including the interest thereon, for the First Two Flights shall be secured
by the following:
1. Buyer will establish an irrevocable letter of credit from a reputable
financial institution based upon the following schedule: (1) a
$10,000,000 letter of credit shall be established 35 days prior to
shipment of Spacecraft Flight #1 to the launch site, and (2) prior to
December 1, 1999, the letter of credit shall be adjusted to cover the
full amount of outstanding In-Orbit payments for the First Two Flights,
including the interest thereon.
2. DISH and Charles Ergen have executed an Agreement dated June 7, 1994,
and attached hereto as Appendix B, whereby the next five direct
broadcast satellites (DBS) procured by DISH or Charles Ergen, and any
entity over which they exercise effective management control, will be
purchased from Contractor under the terms and conditions set forth in
the subject Contract.
3. Charles Ergen has executed an Agreement, dated June 7, 1994, attached
hereto as Appendix C, whereby Mr. Ergen agrees to place all of his
preferred stock in DISH, including any stock dividends paid by DISH on
such preferred stock, into an escrow arrangement to be held by a
mutually agreeable escrow agent, with Contractor to pay all costs
associated with that escrow.
4. The identified guarantors have executed a Guarantee, dated June 7,
1994, attached hereto as Appendix D, covering the full amount of the
In-Orbit payments for the First Two Flights.
5. The other identified individuals have executed a Security Agreement,
dated June 7, 1994, attached hereto as Appendix E, covering the full
amount of the In-Orbit payments for the First Two Flights.
6. Notwithstanding paragraph E. of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT, the interest rate
set forth therein shall increase to 12.875% immediately upon Buyer's
default pursuant to ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT.
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B. The sole purpose of this ARITCLE 4A is to define other adequate security
for the In-Orbit payments for the First Two Flights. Thus, in the event of
any conflict between this ARTICLE 4A and any other part of the subject
Contract, except for paragraph E. of ARTICLE 4, such other part of the
subject Contract shall take precedence over this ARTICLE 4A.
C. In addition to the security set forth above, the Contractor retains all of
its rights to the Security set forth in paragraph F. of ARTICLE 4, PAYMENT.
D. Failure to make any payments required hereunder, or to post the required
letter of credit or the taking of any action which restricts Contractor's
unencumbered right to the Security set forth in paragraph F.1. of ARTICLE
4, PAYMENT, and in this ARTICLE 4A shall constitute a default by Buyer
subject to the provisions of ARTICLE 17, TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT.
4-2
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 10. PROGRESS MEETINGS, PRESENTATIONS AND DOCUMENTATION DELIVERABLES.
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE in its entirety and replace it with:
A. MEETINGS AND PRESENTATIONS
In addition to any other meetings called for under the provisions of this
Contract and without limitation thereto, Contractor shall provide the
manpower, facilities, materials and support required to conduct the
following periodic meetings and presentations:
1. Informal Project Manager meetings.
2. Technical Review meetings as determined by Contractor's Project Manager.
3. Quarterly Summary Executive Reviews.
Copies of view graphs or other documents utilized during these meetings
shall be furnished or be made available to Buyer. Buyer's management
personnel, as may be deemed appropriate by Buyer, shall be invited to the
Quarterly Summary Executive Reviews. Contractor shall be represented by
its Project Manager and such other personnel as are specifically required
to support the particular presentation. All periodic meetings shall be
held at Contractor's facility.
B. DISTRIBUTION OF REPORTS
All materials, reports and documentation furnished pursuant to this ARTICLE
shall be the property of Buyer subject to the limitations set forth in
ARTICLE 25, DISCLOSURE AND USE OF INFORMATION BY THE PARTIES, except that,
Contractor or its subcontractors may retain copies for their own purposes,
including the using of such materials and reports in the performance of
other contracts.
10 - 1
<PAGE>
C. CORRESPONDENCE
All correspondence, including notices, reports and documentation
deliverables, to be provided to Buyer or Contractor under this Contract
shall be sent to Buyer or Contractor as follows:
DirectSat Corporation Martin Marietta Corporation, Astro Space
90 Inverness Circle East Division
Englewood, CO 80112 P.O. Box 800
Princeton, NJ 08543-0800
Attention: Mr. C. Ergen Attention: Mr. L.J. Kiefer
Mr. D. Moskowitz
Phone: 303-799-8222 Phone: 609-490-6228
Telecopy: 303-799-6406 Telecopy: 609-490-3395
D. The only representatives of Buyer and Contractor authorized to sign
contractual documents are:
BUYER CONTRACTOR
Mr. C. Ergen Mr. R.T. McFall
Mr. D. Moskowitz Mr. T.D. Sisley
Mr. L.J. Kiefer
Mr. P.H. Wiggett
Or others authorized by written Or others authorized by written
delegation of the DirectSat Board delegation of Mr. R.T. McFall
of Directors
10 - 2
<PAGE>
ARTICLE 19. CHANGES
DELETE the text of this ARTICLE and replace it with:
Buyer may, from time to time between the effective date and completion of this
Contract, by written change order issued by Buyer, make changes within the
general scope of this Contract in drawings, designs, specifications, method of
shipment or packing, quantities of items to be furnished, place of delivery,
postpone delivery, require additional work, or direct the mission of work. If
any such change causes an increase or decrease in costs of, or the time required
for, the performance of this Contract, an equitable adjustment shall be made in
the price, or delivery schedule, or both, and any other affected provision, and
this Contract shall be modified in writing accordingly. Any claim by Contractor
for adjustment under this paragraph shall be deemed waived unless asserted in
writing within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt by Contractor of the
change order. The amount of the claim shall be stated when it is submitted, or
at a later date, not to exceed sixty (60) days from the date for assertion of
the claim, which later date shall be requested at the time of such submission.
All changes and equitable adjustments pursuant to this ARTICLE shall be subject
to negotiation between and approval by both Parties prior to the implementation
of any such change. Except for Excusable Delays pursuant to ARTICLE 16,
EXCUSABLE DELAYS, none of the Contract dates will change unless authorized by
Mr. C. Ergen.
19 - 1
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment No. 8 to
the Contract.
DIRECTSAT CORP0RATION MARTIN MARIETTA CORPORATION
By: /s/ DAVID K. MOSKOWITZ By: /s/ PETER H. WIGGETT
---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Title: Senior Vice President Title: Director Contracts
Astrospace Commercial
A termination of this Contract under ARTICLE 17 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT,
paragraph F, shall also entitle Contractor to terminate for default any
contract between any DISH, Ltd. subsidiary and Martin Marietta Corporation
which was in effect as of the 1st day of February 1994.
AGREED:
DISH, Ltd. (on behalf of its subsidiaries)
By: /s/ DAVID K. MOSKOWITZ
----------------------------------
Senior Vice President
36-1
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our
reports and to all references to our Firm included in or made a part of this
Registration Statement File No. 333-3584.
/s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Denver, Colorado,
September 19, 1996.
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EXHIBIT 23.2
[LETTERHEAD]
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our report
dated January 23, 1996 with respect to the financial statements of Direct
Broadcasting Satellite Corporation and to all references to our Firm included in
or made a part of this Registration Statement on Form S-4.
/s/ Regardie, Brooks & Lewis, Chartered
by Nathan J. Rosen, CPA, V. President
Bethesda, Maryland
September 19, 1996
