FORM 10-Q
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
(Mark One)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarter Ended March 31, 1998 Commission File Number 1-3610
ALUMINUM COMPANY OF AMERICA
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
PENNSYLVANIA 25-0317820
(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
425 Sixth Avenue - Alcoa Building, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219-1850
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Office of Investor Relations 412-553-3042
Office of the Secretary 412-553-4707
(Registrant's telephone number including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed
all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months,
and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past
90 days.
Yes X No
As of April 27, 1998, 168,391,732 shares of common stock,
par value $1.00, of the Registrant were outstanding.
A07-15865
1
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Alcoa and subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
(in millions)
(unaudited)
March 31 December 31
ASSETS 1998 1997
------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents (includes cash of $89.6 in
1998 and $100.8 in 1997) $ 915.4 $ 800.8
Short-term investments 86.7 105.6
Receivables from customers, less allowances:
1998-$52.2; 1997-$36.6 2,029.9 1,581.2
Other receivables 200.0 216.4
Inventories (b) 1,421.2 1,312.6
Deferred income taxes 180.0 172.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 272.3 228.0
--------- ---------
Total current assets 5,105.5 4,416.9
--------- ---------
Properties, plants and equipment, at cost 15,387.1 15,254.0
Less, accumulated depreciation, depletion and
amortization 8,717.9 8,587.5
--------- ---------
Net properties, plants and equipment 6,669.2 6,666.5
--------- ---------
Other assets 2,398.4 1,987.2
--------- ---------
Total assets $14,173.1 $13,070.6
========= =========
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Short-term borrowings $ 544.7 $ 347.7
Accounts payable, trade 887.5 811.7
Accrued compensation and retirement costs 411.4 436.0
Taxes, including taxes on income 449.9 334.2
Other current liabilities 559.0 375.7
Long-term debt due within one year 112.9 147.2
--------- ---------
Total current liabilities 2,965.4 2,452.5
---------- ---------
Long-term debt, less amount due within one year 1,811.0 1,457.2
Accrued postretirement benefits 1,741.9 1,749.6
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits 1,465.9 1,271.2
Deferred income taxes 289.9 281.0
--------- ---------
Total liabilities 8,274.1 7,211.5
--------- ---------
MINORITY INTERESTS 1,467.5 1,439.7
--------- ---------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock 55.8 55.8
Common stock 178.9 178.9
Additional capital 573.4 578.1
Retained earnings 4,758.1 4,717.3
Treasury stock, at cost (767.9) (758.0)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (i) (366.8) (352.7)
--------- ---------
Total shareholders' equity 4,431.5 4,419.4
--------- ---------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $14,173.1 $13,070.6
========= =========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial
statements.
</TABLE>
2
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Alcoa and subsidiaries
Condensed Statement of Consolidated Income (unaudited)
(in millions, except per share amounts)
First quarter ended
March 31
---------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
REVENUES
Sales and operating revenues $3,445.1 $3,231.1
Other income, principally interest 28.1 41.3
------- -------
3,473.2 3,272.4
------- -------
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Cost of goods sold and operating expenses 2,618.2 2,489.0
Selling, general administrative and other
expenses 153.8 159.0
Research and development expenses 24.5 35.6
Provision for depreciation, depletion and
amortization 184.8 182.6
Interest expense 39.2 37.3
Taxes other than payroll and severance taxes 32.1 33.8
Special items (e) - (4.6)
------- -------
3,052.6 2,932.7
------- -------
EARNINGS
Income before taxes on income 420.6 339.7
Provision for taxes on income (c) 140.9 118.9
------- -------
Income from operations 279.7 220.8
Less: Minority interests' share (69.8) (61.7)
------- -------
NET INCOME $ 209.9 $ 159.1
======= =======
EARNINGS PER SHARE (d)
Basic $ 1.25 $ .92
===== =====
Diluted $ 1.24 $ .91
===== =====
Dividends paid per common share $ .375 $ .225
===== =====
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial
statements.
</TABLE>
3
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Alcoa and subsidiaries
Condensed Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows (unaudited)
(in millions)
Three months ended
March 31
---------
1998 1997
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FROM OPERATIONS
Net income $ 209.9 $ 159.1
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash from operations:
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 191.4 186.5
Change in deferred income taxes (11.0) 4.0
Equity income before additional taxes, net of dividends (12.1) (4.8)
Special items - (4.6)
Book value of asset disposals 11.1 3.6
Minority interests 69.8 61.7
Other 6.0 (15.5)
Increase in receivables (181.3) (194.4)
Reduction in inventories 34.9 36.3
(Increase) reduction in prepaid expenses and other current
assets (.1) 1.2
Reduction in accounts payable and accrued expenses (97.6) (.7)
Increase in taxes, including taxes on income 67.1 53.8
Increase (reduction) in deferred hedging gains 5.5 (33.4)
Net change in noncurrent assets and liabilities (55.1) (7.4)
------- -------
CASH FROM OPERATIONS 238.5 245.4
------- -------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net changes in short-term borrowings 68.6 (1.1)
Common stock issued and treasury stock sold 5.8 118.6
Repurchase of common stock (20.4) (83.5)
Dividends paid to shareholders (64.1) (39.0)
Dividends paid to minority interests (89.9) (33.0)
Additions to long-term debt 416.1 159.9
Payments on long-term debt (111.4) (310.3)
------- -------
CASH PROVIDED FROM (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES 204.7 (188.4)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (173.4) (208.0)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (149.1) -
Proceeds from the sale of assets - 121.2
Net change in short-term investments 18.8 (64.9)
Additions to investments (16.5) (.4)
Changes in minority interests (.5) 20.6
Other (7.2) (5.8)
------- -------
CASH USED FOR INVESTING ACTIVITIES (327.9) (137.3)
------- -------
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH (.7) .5
------- -------
CHANGES IN CASH
Net change in cash and cash equivalents 114.6 (79.8)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 800.8 598.1
------- -------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $ 915.4 $ 518.3
======= =======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial
statements.
</TABLE>
4
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(in millions, except share amounts)
Notes:
(a) Summarized consolidated financial data for Alcoa
Aluminio S.A. (Aluminio) and Alcoa of Australia Limited
(AofA) begin on page 16.
(b) Inventories consisted of:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31 December 31
1998 1997
------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Finished goods $ 345.2 $ 314.9
Work in process 483.1 433.0
Bauxite and alumina 264.9 263.9
Purchased raw materials 221.1 197.3
Operating supplies 106.9 103.5
------- -------
$1,421.2 $1,312.6
======= =======
</TABLE>
Approximately 55% of total inventories at March 31,1998
were valued on a LIFO basis. If valued on an average
cost basis, total inventories would have been $784.6 and
$769.8 higher at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997,
respectively.
(c) The income tax provision for the period is based on the
effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the
full year. The 1998 first quarter rate of 33.5% differs
from the statutory rate primarily because of lower tax
rates on foreign income.
(d) Basic earnings per share (EPS) amounts are computed by
dividing earnings applicable to common stockholders by
the average number of common shares outstanding.
Diluted EPS amounts assume the issuance of common stock
for all potentially dilutive equivalents outstanding.
Anti-dilutive outstanding stock options have been
excluded from the diluted EPS calculation. The detail
of basic and diluted EPS follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
First quarter ended
March 31
---------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Net income $209.9 $159.1
Less: Preferred stock dividends .6 .6
------ ------
Income available to common stockholders $209.3 $158.5
Weighted average shares outstanding 168,146,708 173,121,653
Basic EPS $1.25 $0.92
====== ======
Effect of dilutive securities:
Shares issuable upon exercise of
dilutive outstanding stock options 1,165,696 1,722,383
Diluted shares outstanding 169,312,404 174,844,036
Diluted EPS $1.24 $0.91
====== ======
</TABLE>
5
(e) A net pre-tax gain of $4.6 (an after-tax loss of $1.1)
was recorded in the 1997 first quarter related to
special items. Asset sales generated income of $25.0,
while increases to environmental reserves and an
impairment at a U.S. manufacturing facility resulted in
a charge of $20.4.
(f) On March 9, 1998, Alcoa and Alumax Inc. announced that
they had entered into an agreement under which Alcoa
will acquire all of outstanding shares of Alumax for a
combination of cash and stock. The cash tender offer is
for one-half of the outstanding stock of Alumax at
$50.00 per share with the remaining Alumax shares
converted into 0.6975 of a share of Alcoa common stock.
The transaction was valued at approximately $3,800,
including the assumption of debt. The combined company
will have about 100,000 employees. It will operate at
250 locations in 30 countries with estimated 1998
revenues of $17,000. The acquisition is subject to
antitrust review and other customary conditions
including approval by stockholders of Alumax owning a
majority of the Alumax shares.
(g) On February 6, 1998, Alcoa completed its acquisition of
Inespal, S.A. of Madrid, Spain. Alcoa paid
approximately $150 in cash and assumed $260 of debt and
liabilities in exchange for substantially all of
Inespal's businesses. Inespal is an integrated aluminum
producer with 1997 revenues of $1,100. The acquisition
included an alumina refinery, three aluminum smelters,
three aluminum rolling facilities, two extrusion plants,
an administrative center and related sales offices in
Europe.
(h) In January 1998, Alcoa issued $300 of 6.75% bonds due
2028. The net proceeds were used for general corporate
purposes.
(i) The calculation of comprehensive income is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
First quarter ended
March 31
---------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Net income $209.9 $159.1
Other comprehensive loss (14.1) (78.2)
------ ------
Comprehensive income $195.8 $ 80.9
====== ======
</TABLE>
6
In the opinion of the Company, the financial statements
and summarized financial data in this Form 10-Q report
include all adjustments, including those of a normal
recurring nature, necessary to fairly state the results
for the periods. This Form 10-Q report should be read
in conjunction with the Company's annual report on Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997.
The financial information required in this Form 10-Q by
Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X has been subject to a
review by Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P., the Company's
independent certified public accountants, as described
in their report on page 8.
7
Independent Accountant's Review Report
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa)
We have reviewed the unaudited condensed consolidated
balance sheet of Alcoa and subsidiaries as of March 31,
1998, the unaudited condensed statements of consolidated
income and cash flows for the three-month periods ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997, which are included in Alcoa's
Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 1998. These
financial statements are the responsibility of Alcoa's
management.
We conducted our review in accordance with standards
established by the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants. A review of interim financial information
consists principally of applying analytical procedures to
financial data and making inquiries of persons responsible
for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially
less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards, the objective of
which is the expression of an opinion regarding the
financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do
not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material
modifications that should be made to the condensed
consolidated financial statements referred to above for
them to be in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
We have previously audited, in accordance with generally
accepted auditing standards, the consolidated balance sheet
of Alcoa and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997, and the
related statements of consolidated income, shareholders'
equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented
herein). In our report dated January 8, 1998, except for
Note V, for which the date is February 6, 1998, we expressed
an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial
statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the
accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of
December 31, 1997, is fairly stated, in all material respects,
in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it
has been derived.
/s/ COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
April 6, 1998
8
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Management's Discussion and Analysis of the
Results of Operations and Financial Condition
(dollars in millions, except share amounts)
Results of Operations
Principal income and operating data follow.
First quarter ended
March 31
--------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Sales and operating revenues $3,445.1 $3,231.1
Net income 209.9 159.1
Basic earnings per common share $1.25 .92
Diluted earnings per common share $1.24 .91
Shipments of aluminum products (1) 778 720
Shipments of alumina (1) 1,923 1,769
<FN>
(1) In thousands of metric tons (mt)
</TABLE>
Overview
Alcoa earned $209.9, or $1.25 per basic share, for the first
quarter of 1998. This compares with earnings of $159.1, or 92
cents per basic share, in the 1997 first quarter. Revenues
increased 7% to $3,445 compared with $3,231 for the 1997 quarter,
while aluminum shipments increased 8%. Annualized return on
shareholders' equity was 17.9% for the 1998 quarter, compared
with 13.7% in the 1997 quarter.
Special items in the 1997 quarter resulted in a pre-tax gain of
$4.6 (an after-tax loss of $1.1). Asset sales generated income
of $25.0, while increases to environmental reserves and an
impairment at a U.S. manufacturing facility resulted in a charge
of $20.4.
Alcoa of Australia Limited's (AofA) net income decreased 11% from
the 1997 quarter to $71.4, primarily due to lower realized prices
for alumina and ingot. Higher shipments of alumina and cost
improvements partially offset the price declines.
In Brazil, Alcoa Aluminio's (Aluminio) first quarter 1998 net
income was $23.4, an increase of 31% from the comparable 1997
period. Higher interest income, a lower effective tax rate and
lower production and administrative costs accounted for the
increase. Lower revenues, a result of lower aluminum prices,
partially offset the previously mentioned increases.
9
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated revenue and shipment information by segment follow.
First quarter ended March 31 Revenues Shipments (000 mt)
---------------------------- -------- ------------------
Segment 1998 1997 1998 1997
------- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1. Alumina and chemicals $ 493 $ 495 1,923(1) 1,769(1)
------ ------ ----- -----
2. Aluminum processing:
Flat-rolled products 1,072 896 362 329
Engineered products 640 605 149 142
Aluminum ingot 391 381 245 230
Other aluminum products 65 75 22 19
------ ------ ----- -----
2,168 1,957 778 720
------ ------ ----- -----
3. Nonaluminum products 784 779
------ ------
Total $3,445 $3,231
====== ======
<FN>
(1) Alumina shipments only.
</TABLE>
1. Alumina and Chemicals Segment
Total revenues for this segment were $493 in the 1998 first
quarter, a decrease of $2 from the comparable 1997 quarter. The
lower segment revenues were driven by a slight drop in realized
chemicals prices as alumina revenues were flat. Realized alumina
prices fell 8% from the 1997 quarter but were offset by a similar
increase in shipments.
Alcoa World Alumina and Chemicals (AWAC) produced 2,711 mt of
alumina during the 1998 first quarter, compared with 2,505 mt in
the comparable 1997 period. Of the 1998 first quarter amount,
1,923 mt was shipped to third-party customers.
2. Aluminum Processing Segment
Flat-rolled products - Total flat-rolled products revenue rose a
substantial 20% from the 1997 first quarter. The increase was
due to higher shipments and prices for rigid container sheet
(RCS) and sheet and plate. The acquisition of Inespal by Alcoa
in February 1998 had a positive impact on shipments of flat-
rolled products for the 1998 first quarter.
Sales of RCS for beverage cans provide approximately half of the
revenues and shipments within flat-rolled products. RCS revenues
were up 16% from the 1997 first quarter as higher shipments and
prices had an equal effect on revenues. The increase in shipments
in the 1998 first quarter was a result of customer inventory
adjustments in the 1997 first quarter, resulting in lower
shipments in that quarter.
Sheet and plate revenues increased 28% from the 1997 period due
primarily to a 16% rise in shipments. Most of the volume
increase was the result of the Inespal acquisition, with higher
prices in Europe primarily responsible for the price related
increase in revenues.
10
Engineered products - Engineered products include extrusions used
in the transportation and construction markets, aluminum
forgings, and wire, rod and bar. Revenues from the sale of
engineered products increased 6% from the 1997 first quarter on a
5% increase in shipments.
Revenues from sales of extruded products were up 5% from the 1997
quarter on a 10% increase in prices. Volumes fell while prices
for hard alloy extrusions, used primarily by the transportation
market, rose.
Revenues from the sale of forged aluminum wheels increased 33%
over the 1997 first quarter, primarily as a result of shipments
from Alcoa's new European wheels facility, which began operations
late in the 1997 second quarter. In addition, wire, rod and bar
revenues rose 13% as shipments increased 16% over the 1997 first
quarter.
Aluminum ingot - Revenues for this product were up 3% from the
1997 first quarter on a 7% increase in shipments. Inespal added
approximately 22,000 mt of shipments in the 1998 first quarter,
while shipments from U.S. smelters and Aluminio were down.
Other aluminum products - The major products in this category
include aluminum closures and the sale of aluminum scrap.
Revenues decreased 13% from the 1997 first quarter, as Alcoa sold
its Richmond, Indiana aluminum closure facility in 1997. Lower
prices for scrap also had a negative impact on this segment's
revenues in the 1998 quarter.
3. Nonaluminum Products Segment
Revenues for the nonaluminum products segment were $784 in the
1998 first quarter, up 1% from the 1997 quarter. Revenues at
Alcoa Fujikura Ltd. (AFL) increased 10% as demand for automotive
electrical components continues to be good. In addition,
revenues from the sale of plastic closures increased 13% from the
1997 first quarter. In 1997, Alcoa sold a number of non-core
businesses, resulting in a $38 reduction in revenues in the 1998
first quarter when compared with the 1997 first quarter.
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of goods sold increased $129.2, or 5%, from the 1997 first
quarter. The increase reflects higher volumes, the Inespal
acquisition and purchased material cost increases, partially
offset by improved cost performance. Cost of goods sold as a
percentage of revenue in the 1998 first quarter was 76.0% versus
77.0% in the 1997 first quarter. The lower ratio in 1998 is
primarily due to the above-mentioned items.
Other Income & Expenses
Other income was down $13.2 from the 1997 first quarter primarily
due to the occurrence of mark-to-market losses in the 1998
quarter versus gains in the 1997 quarter. Offsetting the mark-to-
market losses were higher interest and equity income.
11
Selling, general and administrative expenses were down $5.2, or
3%, from the 1997 first quarter. In addition, research and
development expenses were down $11.1, or 31%. The significant
decline in research and development expense was due to fewer
employees at Alcoa's primary research facility.
Interest expense was up $1.9, or 5%, from the 1997 period, due
primarily to the issuance of $300 of 6.75% bonds by Alcoa in the
1998 first quarter. In addition, higher borrowings by AofA also
contributed to the increase.
The income tax provision for the period is based on the effective
tax rate expected to be applicable for the full year. The 1998
first quarter rate of 33.5% differs from the statutory rate
primarily because of lower tax rates on foreign income.
Minority interests' share of income from operations rose 13% from
the 1997 first quarter. The increase is due primarily to higher
earnings at Aluminio and Alcoa Alumina and Chemicals, partially
offset by lower earnings at AofA.
Commodity Risks
Alcoa is a leading global producer of aluminum ingot and aluminum
fabricated products. Aluminum ingot is an internationally
priced, sourced and traded commodity. The principal trading
market for ingot is the London Metal Exchange (LME). Alcoa
participates in this market by buying and selling forward
portions of its aluminum requirements and output.
In the normal course of business, Alcoa enters into long-term
contracts with a number of its fabricated products customers. At
December 31, 1997, such contracts totaled approximately 2,093,000
mt. Alcoa may enter into similar arrangements in the future.
In order to hedge the risk of higher prices for the anticipated
metal purchases required to fulfill these long-term customer
contracts, Alcoa enters into long positions, principally using
futures and options. Alcoa follows a stable pattern of
purchasing metal; therefore it is highly likely that anticipated
metal requirements will be met. At March 31, 1998 and December
31, 1997, these contracts totaled approximately 857,000 mt and
1,084,000 mt, respectively.
The futures and options contracts limit the unfavorable effect of
price increases on metal purchases and likewise limit the
favorable effect from price declines. The contracts are with
creditworthy counterparties and are further supported by cash,
treasury bills, or irrevocable letters of credit issued by
carefully chosen banks.
For financial accounting purposes, the gains and losses on the
hedging contracts are reflected in earnings concurrent with the
hedged costs. The cash flows from these contracts are classified
in a manner consistent with the underlying nature of the
transactions.
Alcoa intends to close out the hedging positions at the time it
purchases the metal from third parties, thus creating the right
economic match both in time and price. The deferred gains on the
hedging contracts of $85 at March 31, 1998 are expected to offset
the increase in the price of the purchased metal.
12
In addition, Alcoa had 291,000 mt and 259,000 mt of LME contracts
outstanding at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997,
respectively, that cover long-term fixed-price commitments to
supply customers with metal from internal sources. Accounting
convention requires that these contracts be marked-to-market,
which resulted in after-tax losses of $19.8 and gains of $6.1 at
March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
Alcoa also purchases certain other commodities, such as gas and
copper, for its operations and enters into futures contracts to
eliminate volatility in the prices of such products. None of
these contracts are material.
Financial Risk
Alcoa is subject to significant exposure from fluctuations in
foreign currencies. As a matter of company policy, foreign
currency exchange contracts, including forwards and options, are
used to manage transactional exposure to changes in currency
exchange rates. The forward contracts principally cover firm
commitments. Options generally are used to hedge anticipated
transactions.
Alcoa also attempts to maintain a reasonable balance between
fixed and floating rate debt and uses interest rate swaps and
caps to keep financing costs as low as possible.
Risk Management
All of the aluminum and other commodity contracts, as well as the
various types of financial instruments, are straightforward.
They are used primarily to mitigate uncertainty and volatility,
and principally cover underlying exposures.
Alcoa's commodity and derivative activities are subject to the
management, direction and control of the Strategic Risk
Management Committee (SRMC). It is composed of the chief
executive officer, the president, the chief financial officer and
other officers and employees as the chief executive officer may
select from time to time. SRMC reports to the Board of Directors
at each of its scheduled meetings on the scope of its derivatives
activities.
Environmental Matters
Alcoa continues to participate in environmental assessments
and cleanups at a number of locations, including operating
facilities and their adjoining property; at previously owned
or operated facilities; and at Superfund and other waste
sites. A liability is recorded for environmental remediation
costs or damages when a cleanup program becomes probable and
the costs or damages can be reasonably estimated.
As assessments and cleanups proceed, the liability is
adjusted based on progress in determining the extent of
remedial actions and related costs and damages. The
liability can change substantially due to factors such as the
nature or extent of contamination, changes in remedial
requirements and technological changes.
13
For example, there are certain matters, including several
related to alleged natural resource damage or alleged off-
site contaminated sediments, where investigations are
ongoing. It is not possible to determine the outcomes or to
estimate with any degree of certainty the ranges of potential
costs for these matters.
Alcoa's remediation reserve balance at the end of the 1998
first quarter was $230 and reflects the most probable costs
to remediate identified environmental conditions for which
costs can be reasonably estimated. Approximately 24% of the
reserve relates to Alcoa's Massena, N.Y. plant site and 21%
relates to Alcoa's Pt. Comfort, Texas plant site.
Remediation expenditures charged to the reserve during the
1998 three-month period were $13. They include expenditures
currently mandated as well as those not required by any
regulatory authority or third party.
Included in ongoing operating expenses are the recurring
costs of managing hazardous substances and environmental
programs. These costs are estimated to be about 2% of cost
of goods sold.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash from Operations
Cash from operations during the 1998 first quarter totaled
$238.5, compared with $245.4 in the 1997 quarter. The decrease
reflects higher working capital requirements along with a higher
level of noncurrent assets and liabilities. These items were
nearly offset by higher net income.
Financing Activities
Financing activities generated $204.7 of cash in the first
quarter, compared with cash outlays of $188.4 in the 1997 period.
The primary reason for the difference was Alcoa's issuance of
$300 of 6.75% bonds due in 2028. The net proceeds of this
borrowing were used for general corporate purposes. In addition,
the 1998 first quarter included $20.4 used to repurchase 297,500
shares of the Company's common stock.
Dividends paid to shareholders were $64.1 in the 1998 three-month
period, an increase of $25.1 over the 1997 period. The increase
was primarily due to Alcoa's bonus dividend program, which paid
out 12.5 cents in the 1998 quarter above the base dividend of 25
cents. There was no bonus dividend in 1997.
14
Investing Activities
Investing activities used $327.9 during the 1998 first quarter,
compared with $137.3 in the 1997 period. Capital expenditures
for the 1998 period were $173.4, down $34.6 from the 1997 first
quarter. In February 1998, Alcoa acquired Inespal S.A of Madrid,
Spain. Alcoa paid approximately $150 in cash and assumed $260 in
debt and liabilities in exchange for substantially all of
Inespal's businesses. Inespal is an integrated aluminum producer
with 1997 revenues of $1,100. The acquisition included an
alumina refinery, three aluminum smelters, three aluminum rolling
facilities, two extrusion plants, an administrative center and
related sales offices in Europe.
During the 1997 quarter, Alcoa completed asset sales involving
its Alcoa Composites, Dayton Technologies, Norcold and Arctek
subsidiaries. A total of $121.2 was received for the operating
assets of these entities.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
A new accounting rule, SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information," was issued in June
1997. The implementation of SFAS No. 131 will require the
disclosure of segment information on the same basis that is used
internally for evaluating segment performance and allocating
resources to segments. Implementation of this new standard is
required for calendar year 1998. The company has reviewed its
internal reporting system and has determined that segment
reporting based on a global product basis will best meet the
requirements of the new standard. The company will change its
segment disclosures to this new basis as of year-end 1998,
however, the exact makeup of the segment disclosure is still
being determined. The conversion to this new segment reporting
structure and the implementation of the new standard will not
have a financial impact on Alcoa's consolidated financial
statements. Rather, it will affect the presentation of segment
information in the notes to the consolidated financial
statements.
In February 1998, SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures about
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits," was issued. The
implementation of SFAS No. 132 will revise certain footnote
disclosure requirements related to pension and other retiree
benefits. The new standard will not have a financial impact on
the company. Implementation is required for calendar year 1998.
In March 1998, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of
the AICPA issued SOP 98-01, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer
Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use." This SOP
requires the capitalization of certain costs incurred with the
purchase or development of software to be used internally. The
SOP is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,
1998. Alcoa does not expect the implementation of this statement
to have a material impact on its financial statements.
15
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Alcoa and subsidiaries
Summarized unaudited consolidated financial data for Aluminio, a
59%-owned subsidiary of Alcoa Brazil Holdings Company, follow.
March 31 December 31
-------- -----------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Cash and short-term investments $ 305.0 $ 305.8
Other current assets 418.3 389.8
Properties, plants and equipment, net 815.3 825.4
Other assets 246.9 233.1
-------- --------
Total assets 1,785.5 1,754.1
-------- --------
Current liabilities 309.7 316.8
Long-term debt 420.8 403.2
Other liabilities 86.0 88.5
-------- --------
Total liabilities 816.5 808.5
-------- --------
Net assets $ 969.0 $ 945.6
======== ========
First quarter ended
March 31
--------
1998 1997
---- ----
Revenues (1) $ 273.4 $ 288.2
Costs and expenses (249.1) (265.8)
Translation and exchange adjustments .6 (.1)
Income tax expense (1.5) (4.5)
-------- --------
Net income $ 23.4 $ 17.8
======== ========
Alcoa's share of net income $ 13.8 $ 10.5
======== ========
<FN>
(1) Revenues from Alcoa and its subsidiaries, the terms of which
were established by negotiations between the parties, follow.
First quarter ended March 31: 1998 - $2.0, 1997 - $2.4
</TABLE>
16
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Alcoa and subsidiaries
Summarized unaudited consolidated financial data for AofA, a 60%-
owned subsidiary of Alcoa International Holdings Company, follow.
March 31 December 31
-------- -----------
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Cash and short-term investments $ 4.0 $ 9.5
Other current assets 428.3 386.1
Properties, plants and equipment, net 1,425.0 1,385.9
Other assets 89.5 86.2
------- -------
Total assets 1,946.8 1,867.7
------- -------
Current liabilities 331.8 304.1
Long-term debt 226.6 225.3
Other liabilities 376.6 361.6
------- -------
Total liabilities 935.0 891.0
------- -------
Net assets $ 1,011.8 $ 976.7
======= =======
First quarter ended
March 31
--------
1998 1997
---- ----
Revenues (1) $ 441.8 $ 491.7
Costs and expenses (330.6) (364.3)
Income tax expense (39.8) (46.9)
-------- --------
Net income $ 71.4 $ 80.5
======== ========
Alcoa's share of net income $ 42.8 $ 48.3
======== ========
<FN>
(1) Revenues from Alcoa and its subsidiaries, the terms of which
were established by negotiations between the parties, follow.
First quarter ended March 31: 1998 - $13.1, 1997 - $12.7
</TABLE>
17
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Following the March 9, 1998 announcement of the proposed
acquisition of Alumax by Alcoa and AMX Acquisition Corporation,
five putative class actions on behalf of stockholders of Alumax
were filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery against Alumax and
certain of Alumax's directors, four of which also name Alcoa as a
defendant. The plaintiffs in those actions allege, among other
things, that the director defendants have agreed to a buyout of
Alumax at an inadequate price, that they have failed to provide
Alumax's stockholders with all necessary information about the
value of Alumax, that they failed to make an informed decision as
no market check of Alumax's value was obtained and the
acquisition is structured to ensure that stockholders will tender
their shares and is coercive. In addition, the plaintiffs allege
that the Schedules 14D-1 and 14D-9 filed by Alcoa, AMX
Acquisition Corporation and Alumax, respectively, fail to
disclose certain information necessary for Alumax's stockholders
to make an informed decision regarding the offer and the other
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. Plaintiffs
seek to enjoin the acquisition or to rescind it in the event that
it is consummated and to cause Alumax to implement a "full and
fair" auction for Alumax. Plaintiffs seek compensatory damages
in an unspecified amount, costs and disbursements, including
attorneys' fees, and such other relief as the Delaware Court of
Chancery deems appropriate.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Exhibits
12. Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
15. Independent Accountants' letter regarding unaudited
financial information
27. Financial Data Schedule
(b) No reports on Form 8-K were filed by Alcoa during the
quarter covered by this report.
18
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
ALUMINUM COMPANY OF AMERICA
April 28, 1998 By /s/RICHARD B. KELSON
Date Richard B. Kelson
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
April 28, 1998 By /s/EARNEST J. EDWARDS
Date Earnest J. Edwards
Senior Vice President and Controller
(Chief Accounting Officer)
19
EXHIBITS
Page
12. Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges 21
15. Independent Accountants' letter regarding unaudited 22
financial information
27. Financial Data Schedule
EXHIBIT 12
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
For the three months ended March 31, 1998
(in millions, except ratio)
1998
----
<S> <C>
Earnings:
Income before taxes on income $ 420.6
Minority interests' share of earnings of majority-
owned subsidiaries without fixed charges (.6)
Equity income (10.6)
Fixed charges 52.3
Proportionate share of income (loss) of 50%-owned
persons 9.3
Distributed income of less than 50%-owned persons -
Amortization of capitalized interest 5.0
-------
Total earnings $ 476.0
-------
Fixed Charges:
Interest expense:
Consolidated $ 39.2
Proportionate share of 50%-owned persons .8
-------
40.0
-------
Amount representative of the interest factor in rents:
Consolidated 10.2
Proportionate share of 50%-owned persons .1
-------
10.3
-------
Fixed charges added to earnings 50.3
Interest capitalized:
Consolidated 2.0
Proportionate share of 50%-owned persons -
-------
2.0
-------
Preferred stock dividend requirements of
majority-owned subsidiaries -
-------
Total fixed charges $ 52.3
=======
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 9.1
=======
</TABLE>
21
EXHIBIT 15
April 6, 1998
Securities and Exchange Commission
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20549
RE: Aluminum Company of America
1. Form S-8 (Registration Nos.33-24846 and 333-00033)
Alcoa Savings Plan for Salaried Employees; Alcoa
Fujikura Ltd. Salaried 401(k) Savings Plan
2. Form S-8 (Registration Nos.33-22346, 33-49109,
33-60305 and 333-27903)
Long Term Stock Incentive Plan
3. Form S-3 (Registration No. 33-60045) and
Form S-3 (Registration No. 33-64353)
Debt Securities and Warrants to Purchase Debt
Securities, Preferred Stock and Common Stock
Ladies and gentlemen:
We are aware that our report dated April 6, 1998, accompanying
interim financial information of Aluminum Company of America
(Alcoa) and subsidiaries for the three-month period ended
March 31, 1998, is incorporated by reference in the registration
statements referred to above. Pursuant to Rule 436 (c) under
the Securities Act of 1933, this report should not be considered
as part of a registration statement prepared or certified by us
within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of that Act.
Very truly yours,
/s/COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
22
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 3-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-END> MAR-31-1998
<CASH> 915,400
<SECURITIES> 86,700
<RECEIVABLES> 2,029,900
<ALLOWANCES> 52,200
<INVENTORY> 1,421,200
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 5,105,500
<PP&E> 15,387,100
<DEPRECIATION> 8,717,900
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 14,173,100
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 2,965,400
<BONDS> 1,923,900
178,900
0
<COMMON> 55,800
<OTHER-SE> 4,196,800
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 14,173,100
<SALES> 3,445,100
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 3,473,200
<CGS> 2,618,200
<TOTAL-COSTS> 2,618,200
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 184,800
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 39,200
<INCOME-PRETAX> 420,600
<INCOME-TAX> 140,900
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 279,700
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 209,900
<EPS-PRIMARY> 1.25
<EPS-DILUTED> 1.24
</TABLE>
