________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_________________
FORM 10-Q
(MARK ONE)
[ X ] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM _________________ TO __________________
COMMISSION FILE NO. 0-13941
AST RESEARCH, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 95-3525565
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF (IRS EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
16215 ALTON PARKWAY
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA 92718
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES, ZIP CODE)
REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (714) 727-4141
_________________
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No _
There were 57,734,830 shares of the registrant's Common Stock, par value
$.01 per share, outstanding on November 1, 1996.
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
AST RESEARCH, INC.
INDEX
Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
at September 28, 1996 (Unaudited)
and December 30, 1995 3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Unaudited) for the three months and nine months ended
September 28, 1996 and September 30, 1995 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited) for the nine months ended
September 28, 1996 and September 30, 1995 5
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements (Unaudited) 6-13
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations 14-27
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 28-29
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 30
SIGNATURE 31
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes certain forward-looking statements,
the realization of which may be affected by certain important factors discussed
in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and "Additional Factors That May Affect Future Results" thereunder
and elsewhere herein.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 28, December 30,
1996 1995
(In thousands, except share amounts) (Unaudited)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 29,851 $ 125,387
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
doubtful accounts of $19,825 at September 28, 1996
and $18,629 at December 30, 1995 344,361 392,598
Inventories 192,349 252,339
Deferred income taxes 20,806 19,495
Other current assets 27,723 47,802
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 615,090 837,621
Property and equipment, net 94,747 98,725
Other assets 76,004 119,696
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 785,841 $ 1,056,042
========================================================================================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Short-term borrowings $ 124,000 $ 75,000
Accounts payable, including payable to related
party of $33,581 at September 28, 1996 and
$31,562 at December 30, 1995 244,237 199,346
Accrued salaries, wages and employee benefits 17,397 19,827
Other accrued liabilities 181,925 200,639
Income taxes payable 31,276 26,902
Current portion of long-term debt 299 92,361
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 599,134 614,075
Long-term debt 128,563 125,540
Other non-current liabilities 6,911 5,545
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, par value $.01; 200,000,000 shares
authorized, 57,734,830 shares issued and
outstanding at September 28, 1996 and 44,679,400
shares at December 30, 1995 577 447
Additional capital 504,714 414,735
Retained earnings (deficit) (454,058) (104,300)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total shareholders' equity 51,233 310,882
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 785,841 $ 1,056,042
========================================================================================
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
----------------------------- ------------------------------
September 28, September 30, September 28, September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts) 1996 1995 1996 1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales $ 408,483 $ 403,357 $ 1,467,214 $ 1,735,535
Revenue from related party - - 25,000 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total revenue 408,483 403,357 1,492,214 1,735,535
Cost of sales 427,245 410,126 1,512,020 1,600,246
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit (loss) (18,762) (6,769) (19,806) 135,289
Selling, general and administrative expenses 78,020 75,193 243,634 236,826
Engineering and development expenses 8,873 9,566 29,032 27,399
Restructuring charge - - 6,527 -
Other charges 21,643 - 26,380 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating expenses 108,536 84,759 305,573 264,225
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating loss (127,298) (91,528) (325,379) (128,936)
Financing and other expense, net (7,970) (4,854) (24,379) (14,873)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes (135,268) (96,382) (349,758) (143,809)
Income tax provision (benefit) - - - (9,248)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net loss $ (135,268) $ (96,382) $ (349,758) $ (134,561)
===========================================================================================================
Net loss per share $ (2.41) $ (2.36) $ (7.21) $ (3.83)
===========================================================================================================
Weighted average common shares outstanding 56,164 40,762 48,523 35,177
===========================================================================================================
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nine Months Ended
------------------------------
September 28, September 30,
(In thousands) 1996 1995
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Net cash used in operating activities $ (129,829) $ (55,334)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of capital equipment, net (12,673) (12,318)
Purchases of other assets, net (125) (11,582)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities (12,798) (23,900)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Short-term borrowings, net 49,000 (75,000)
Repayment of long-term debt, net (62,115) (6,916)
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock
To related party 60,000 240,564
Other 109 822
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 46,994 159,470
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 97 (13,564)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (95,536) 66,672
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 125,387 68,654
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 29,851 $ 135,326
========================================================================================
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest $ 8,392 $ 12,115
Income taxes paid (refunded), net $ (8,497) $ (2,553)
On July 11, 1996, the Company paid $30 million of the $90 million promissory
note due to Tandy related to the Company's 1993 acquisition of Tandy's personal
computer manufacturing operations in the form of 4,498,594 shares of the
Company's common stock.
========================================================================================
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been
prepared by the Company without audit (except for the balance sheet information
as of December 30, 1995) in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles for interim financial information and with instructions to Form 10-Q
and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. In the opinion of management, all
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary
for a fair presentation have been included.
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements do not include
certain footnotes and financial presentations normally required under generally
accepted accounting principles and, therefore, should be read in conjunction
with the audited financial statements included in the Company's Transition
Report on Form 10-K for the transition period from July 2, 1995 to December 30,
1995 ("transition period 1995"). The results of operations for the interim
periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the
full year.
On October 26, 1995, the Company changed its fiscal year from the Saturday
closest to June 30 to the Saturday closest to December 31. The change was
effective for transition period 1995.
The Company has elected to change the presentation of its consolidated
statements of cash flows from the direct method to the indirect method of
presentation. In addition, the Company has elected to present condensed
consolidated financial statements for its quarterly interim reporting. The
changes are effective for fiscal year 1996.
Income Taxes
The Company provides for income taxes in interim periods based on the
estimated effective income tax rate for the complete fiscal year. The income
tax provision (benefit) is computed on the pretax income (loss) of the
consolidated entities located within each taxing jurisdiction based on current
tax law. Deferred taxes result from the future tax consequences associated with
temporary differences between the amount of assets and liabilities recorded for
tax and financial accounting purposes. A valuation allowance for deferred tax
assets is recorded to the extent the Company cannot determine, in accordance
with the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109
"Accounting for Income Taxes," that the ultimate realization of net deferred
tax assets is more likely than not.
For the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996, the estimated effective
income tax rate is less than the U.S. statutory rate primarily due to a 100%
valuation allowance provided against the additional deferred tax assets that
arose from the current operating loss.
Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 ("the Code") place
certain limitations on U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and excess credits
if one or more shareholders have increased their aggregate equity ownership of
the Company by more than 50 percentage points, within a three year measurement
period. As a result of recent shareholder equity transactions with Tandy
Corporation ("Tandy") and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. ("Samsung") on July 11,
1996, the Company has experienced a change in ownership as defined in the Code.
Accordingly, the amount of taxable income or income tax in any particular year
that can be offset by net operating loss and tax credit carryforward amounts is
limited to a prescribed annual amount equal to 5.78% of the fair market value of
the Company as of July 11, 1996. Based on preliminary calculations, the Company
does not believe that any of the net operating loss or tax credit carryforward
amounts in the aggregate will be unusable solely as a result of the annual
limitation, although the amounts that can be utilized in any year may be
limited.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
Intangible Assets
Goodwill, representing the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of
the net assets of the acquired entities, is being amortized on a straight-line
basis over the period of expected benefit of ten years. Patents are amortized
using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the patented
technology. Licenses are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated
economic lives of the related assets. During the fiscal year ended July 1,
1995, the Company elected the early adoption of Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 121 ("SFAS No. 121"), "Accounting for the Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of."
In accordance with SFAS No. 121, long-lived assets and certain identifiable
intangibles held and used by the Company are reviewed for impairment whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset
may not be recoverable. The recoverability test is performed at a consolidated
level based on undiscounted net cash flows, because the assets being tested do
not have identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of other asset
groupings.
Because of recent operating losses, the Company has evaluated its long-lived
assets for impairment on a quarterly basis since adoption. Analyses in prior
quarters assumed certain sales growth and gross margin improvements similar to
those achieved from the first quarter to the second quarter of fiscal year 1996.
During the quarter ended September 28, 1996, the Company was unable to achieve
the revenue and gross margin improvements reflected in its cash flow projections
used to evaluate the recoverability of its long-lived assets as of June 28,
1996. As a result, the Company updated its cash flow projections for purposes
of evaluating its long-lived assets for impairment to reflect a reduced level of
sales growth and adjust the period of time and rate by which gross margins are
expected to improve. Based on this updated analysis, the Company has concluded
that its long-lived assets are impaired. The Company has accordingly completed
a preliminary estimate of the fair value of its long-lived assets, and, based on
this estimate, the Company has recorded an impairment charge of approximately
$21.6 million in the quarter ended September 28, 1996. This charge is recorded
in "Other charges" in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of
operations. The Company's estimate of fair values was based upon a combination
of actual appraisals and preliminary discussions with appraisers. During the
quarter ending December 28, 1996, the Company will complete its analysis of the
fair value of its long-lived assets, and, if necessary, will adjust the
impairment charge.
The impairment charge consists of the remaining net book value of goodwill
acquired in connection with the Company's 1993 acquisition of Tandy's personal
computer manufacturing operations. The Company's estimate of the fair value of
its other long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) approximates their net book
value.
Stock-Based Compensation
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 ("SFAS 123"), "Accounting
for Stock-Based Compensation," becomes effective for the Company for fiscal year
1996. The Company will continue to measure compensation expense for its stock-
based employee compensation plans using the intrinsic value method prescribed by
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees," ("APB 25") and related Interpretations, and will provide proforma
disclosures of net income (loss) and earnings (loss) per share as if the fair
value-based method prescribed by SFAS 123 had been applied in measuring
compensation expense.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market
and consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 28, December 30,
(In thousands) 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Purchased parts $ 80,941 $ 73,012
Work in process 17,319 33,823
Finished goods 94,089 145,504
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 192,349 $ 252,339
================================================================================
</TABLE>
Restructuring Charge
At December 30, 1995, $9.2 million of the $125 million restructuring charge
incurred in connection with the 1993 acquisition of certain assets and
assumption of certain liabilities of Tandy's personal computer manufacturing
operation remained accrued on the Company's condensed consolidated balance
sheet. During the nine months ended September 28, 1996, the Company incurred
cash expenditures of $1.9 million, related primarily to remaining lease
obligations. At September 28, 1996, $7.3 million of the remaining restructuring
accrual consists primarily of amounts provided for lease payments and the write-
down of related leasehold improvements to net realizable value. The lease
payments are expected to be completed in fiscal year 1999.
At December 30, 1995, approximately $12.2 million of the $13.0 million
restructuring charge incurred in transition period 1995 in connection with the
Company's decision to increase its utilization of third-party board design and
manufacturing and, as a result, to realign its Asia Pacific manufacturing
operations remained accrued on the Company's condensed consolidated balance
sheet. During the nine months ended September 28, 1996, the Company incurred
cash expenditures of $5.2 million and non-cash charges of $2.0 million, related
primarily to severance payments, asset write-downs and lease payments for closed
facilities. Accordingly, at September 28, 1996, $5.0 million of the
restructuring accrual remained on the Company's condensed consolidated balance
sheet, consisting primarily of employee severance, asset write-downs and
provisions for lease obligations. As of September 28, 1996, approximately $4.1
million of the total $7.2 million restructuring charge utilized to date relates
to severance payments made to the approximately 1,500 employees who have been
terminated under this plan. As of September 28, 1996, the majority of the
restructuring has been completed although certain lease obligations will
continue through fiscal year 1998.
In the second quarter of fiscal year 1996, the Company approved and
implemented a restructuring plan, separate and apart from the restructuring plan
implemented in transition period 1995, designed to restructure its worldwide
operations into three regional operating groups. The Company's plans include
the consolidation and/or closure of certain regional offices and reconfiguration
centers and the suspension of its notebook manufacturing operations in Taiwan,
accompanied by the transfer of notebook manufacturing to third-party original
equipment manufacturers. In accordance with this plan, the Company recorded a
restructuring charge of approximately $6.5 million in the quarter ended June 29,
1996. Costs included in the restructuring charge consist primarily of employee
severance, asset write-downs and provisions for lease obligations.
Approximately $5.8 million is expected to involve cash disbursements with the
remaining costs primarily involving asset write-downs. The employee severance
will involve approximately 240 employees, across all functions and levels. In
fiscal year 1996, the Company incurred aggregate cash expenditures of $3.4
million and non-cash charges of $0.1 million, consisting primarily of employee
severance, asset write-downs, and payments for lease obligations. As of
September 28, 1996, approximately 230 employees have been terminated under this
plan, and approximately $2.8 million of the original $3.1 million severance
accrual has been paid. At September 28, 1996, approximately $3.0 million of the
restructuring accrual remained on the Company's condensed consolidated balance
sheet, consisting primarily of employee severance, asset write-downs and
provisions for lease obligations. The Company expects
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
that a majority of the restructuring will be completed by the end of fiscal year
1996, although certain lease obligations will continue through fiscal year 2001.
No assurance can be given that the restructuring actions will be successful or
that other restructuring actions will not be required in the future.
Other Charges
Other charges consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
----------------------------- ------------------------------
September 28, September 30, September 28, September 30,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1996 1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Asset impairment charge $ 21,643 $ - $ 21,643 $ -
Facility write-down to net realizable value - - 1,149 -
Provision under Founder's Agreement - - 3,588 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 21,643 $ - $ 26,380 $ -
===========================================================================================================
</TABLE>
During the quarter ended September 28, 1996, the Company recorded an asset
impairment charge of approximately $21.6 million. See preceding discussion
under Intangible Assets.
As part of its second quarter restructuring plan, $1.1 million in other
charges were provided as a result of management's commitment to dispose of its
existing sales facility in France. The carrying amount of the facility, which
includes land, a building, and leasehold improvements, is approximately $3.0
million after the write-down and represents the estimated fair value less costs
to sell.
Effective July 27, 1993, the Company entered into a separate employment
contract ("Founder's Agreement") with founder and former Chairman of the Board
(now Chairman Emeritus), Safi U. Qureshey, who was then serving as the Company's
Chief Executive Officer. The Founder's Agreement provided for five years of
salary, health and welfare benefits, two years of bonus, acceleration of stock
options and certain other benefits if active employment was terminated by the
Company or by Mr. Qureshey under specified conditions. On June 28, 1996, the
Company elected Kwang-Ho Kim as Chairman and named Mr. Qureshey Chairman
Emeritus. As a result of this change, the Founder's Agreement was amended to
allow Mr. Qureshey to exercise his rights under the agreement at any time.
Therefore, in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 88
("SFAS 88"), "Employers' Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined
Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits," the Company provided $3.6
million during the quarter ended June 29, 1996, representing the present value
of the benefits payable to Mr. Qureshey.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
Financing and other expenses
Financing and other expenses consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
----------------------------- ------------------------------
September 28, September 30, September 28, September 30,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Interest income $ 659 $ 1,194 $ 2,146 $ 2,549
Interest expense (8,180) (4,798) (23,997) (15,342)
Foreign exchange gain (loss) (418) (1,289) (2,440) (2,011)
Other (31) 39 (88) (69)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ (7,970) $ (4,854) $ (24,379) $ (14,873)
============================================================================================
</TABLE>
Per Share Information
Primary and fully diluted loss per share have been computed based upon the
weighted average number of common shares outstanding.
Contingencies
The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") is currently examining the Company's
1989, 1990 and 1991 federal income tax returns. In addition, the IRS has
completed its examination of the Company's 1987 and 1988 federal income tax
returns and has proposed adjustments to the Company's federal income tax
liabilities for such years. Initially, the IRS had proposed adjustments of
approximately $8.2 million, plus accrued interest of $10.3 million. The proposed
adjustments relate to the allocation of income and deductions between the
Company and its foreign subsidiaries. Following the Company's request for an
administrative conference to appeal the proposed adjustments, the IRS Appeals
Office returned the case to the Examination Office for further development,
because the method used in determining the original proposed adjustments was not
adopted in the final regulations. After its re-examination, the IRS proposed
revised adjustments of approximately $12.6 million, plus accrued interest of
$16.5 million. Management believes that the Company's position has substantial
merit and intends to vigorously contest these proposed adjustments. Management
further believes that any aggregate liability that may result upon the final
resolution of the proposed adjustments for 1987 and 1988 or the current
examinations of 1989, 1990 and 1991 will not have a material adverse effect on
the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
However, management is unable to estimate the amount of any loss that may be
realized in the event of an unfavorable outcome.
The Company has been named as a defendant or co-defendant, generally with other
personal computer manufacturers, including such companies as IBM, AT&T, Unisys,
Digital Equipment Corporation, NEC, Olivetti, NCR, Panasonic, and Matsushita, in
eighteen similar lawsuits each of which alleges as a factual basis the
occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive stress injuries. The suits
naming the Company are just a few of the many lawsuits of this type which have
been filed, often naming IBM and other major computer companies. The claims
against the Company total in excess of $100 million in compensatory damages and
punitive damages and additional unspecified amounts. The Company has denied or
is in the process of denying the claims and intends to vigorously defend the
suits. The Company is unable at this time to predict the ultimate outcome of
these suits. Ultimate resolution of the litigation against the Company may
depend on progress in resolving this type of litigation overall. The Company is
currently unable to estimate the amount of any loss that may be realized in the
event of an unfavorable outcome. However, before consideration of any potential
insurance recoveries, the Company believes that the claims in the suits filed
against it will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated
financial position or results of operations. The Company has maintained various
liability insurance policies during the periods covering the claims above.
While such policies may limit coverage under certain
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
circumstances, the Company believes that it is adequately insured. Should the
Company not be successful in defending against such lawsuits or not be able to
claim compensation under its liability insurance policies, the Company's results
of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
The Company was named, along with twelve other personal computer companies, as
a defendant in a lawsuit filed on March 27, 1995 in the Superior Court for the
County of Merced, California. The case name for this March 27, 1995 filing is
People v. Acer, et al., and the complaint alleged that the Company has engaged
in deceptive advertising and unlawful business practices in relation to computer
monitor screen measurements. The People v. Acer lawsuit was resolved by a
Stipulated Judgment that the Company signed along with representatives of all
other defendants. The Company was named, along with three other personal
computer or monitor companies, as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed on
May 2, 1995 in the Superior Court for the County of Marin, California. The case
name for this May 2, 1995 filing is Kaplan, et al. v. Viewsonic, et al., and
alleges that the defendants have engaged in unfair business practices, false
advertising and breach of implied warranty concerning the advertisement of the
size of computer monitor screens. The Company was named, along with 37 other
defendants, in a class action lawsuit, Long v. Packard Bell, et al., filed on
August 21, 1995 in the Superior Court for the County of Orange, California,
which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company was named, along with nine other defendants, in a class
action lawsuit, Randy Davis, Ph.D., Inc. v. AST Research, et al., filed on
August 23, 1995 in Superior Court for the County of Orange, California, which
alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company was named, along with 35 other defendants, in a class
action lawsuit, Sutter v. Acer, et al., filed on September 7, 1995 in the
Superior Court for the County of Sacramento, California, which alleges certain
claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer monitors. The
Company was named, along with 41 other defendants, in a class action lawsuit,
Shapiro v. ADI Systems, Inc., et al., filed on August 14, 1995 in Santa Clara
County, California, which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of
the sizes of computer monitors. The Company was named, along with 29 other
defendants, in a class action lawsuit, Maizes & Maizes, et al., v. Apple
Computer Inc., et al., filed on December 15, 1995 in Essex County, New Jersey,
which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company is currently unable to estimate the amount of any loss
that may be realized in the event of an unfavorable outcome. However, based on
preliminary facts available to the Company, management does not believe that the
outcome of these disputes will have a material adverse impact on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company was named as a defendant in a lawsuit filed on June 7, 1995 in the
Superior Court for the County of Orange, California. The case name for this
filing is Competitive Technology v. AST Research, Inc., and the complaint
alleges that the Company intentionally interfered with contracts between
Competitive Technology and Daewoo concerning the supply of computer monitors to
the Company. On October 9, 1996, there was a jury verdict against the Company
for an amount that does not have a material adverse effect on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company is also subject to other legal proceedings and claims that arise
in the normal course of business. While the outcome of these proceedings and
claims cannot be predicted with certainty, management does not believe that the
outcome of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the
Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
Shareholder Equity Transactions
On July 11, 1996, the Company paid the $90 million promissory note due to
Tandy related to the Company's 1993 acquisition of Tandy's personal computer
manufacturing operations. Payment was in the form of 4,498,594 shares of the
Company's common stock, then valued at $30 million, and $60 million in cash.
Subsequent to the issuance of shares to Tandy, also on July 11, 1996, the
Company issued 8,499,336 shares of its common stock to Samsung in exchange for
$60 million in cash that was used to pay Tandy. The issuance of common stock to
Samsung was made pursuant to the 1995 Letter of Credit Agreement between the
Company and Samsung. The equity transactions were recorded net of professional
fees of approximately $0.1 million.
AST RESEARCH, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
Stock Plans
On September 23, 1996, all outstanding stock options held by employees
(excluding executive officers and Board members) were repriced with a new
exercise price of $4.63 per share, the closing market price on that date. The
repricing is subject to the condition that the options are not exercised and
employment is not terminated prior to September 22, 1997. The old options will
be canceled and reissued under the Company's 1989 Long-Term Incentive Plan. The
number of shares and vesting schedule of the new option grants is the same as
that of the original grant. The Company initiated this repricing arrangement in
order to retain and motivate key employees as part of an effort to successfully
continue to implement the Company's turnaround plan. A total of 3,035,268
options with exercise prices ranging from $4.81 to $9.38 were repriced.
Related Party Transactions
On February 22, 1996, the Company entered into a Server Technology Transfer
Agreement and a Strategic Consulting Agreement with Samsung. The Server
Technology Transfer Agreement grants Samsung a royalty-free license through July
31, 2000 to use the technical information supplied by the Company to produce
server technology products. The Strategic Consulting Agreement grants Samsung a
royalty-free license through July 31, 2000 to use various marketing and sales
planning studies provided by the Company. Under each agreement, Samsung paid
$5 million to the Company. These amounts are not refundable under any
circumstance and are not contingent upon the rendering of future services by the
Company. As a result of these agreements, $10.0 million was recorded as revenue
from related party in the quarter ended March 30, 1996, and is included in the
accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations for the nine months
ended September 28, 1996.
On June 27, 1996, the Company entered into an Intellectual Property Assignment
Agreement with Samsung, which assigns a first group of patent applications of
the Company to Samsung. Under the agreement, Samsung agreed to pay $15 million
to the Company. Samsung also has an option under this agreement to purchase an
additional group of patent applications of the Company at any time between July
1, 1996 and December 20, 1996, the terms of which will be agreed upon at that
time. The assignment of the first group of patent applications was completed
and the $15 million payment is not contingent upon the rendering of future
services by the Company. As a result of this agreement, $15.0 million was
recorded as revenue from related party in the quarter ended June 29, 1996, and
is included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations
for the nine months ended September 28, 1996.
During the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28, 1996, the Company
purchased components and products from Samsung of approximately $67.7 million
and $181.5 million, respectively. Amounts payable to Samsung at September 28,
1996 and December 30, 1995 were $33.6 million and $31.6 million, respectively.
Subsequent Events
On October 11, 1996, Samsung provided a $50 million short-term loan to the
Company at an interest rate of 5.9% per annum. Interest and principal on the
loan are due and payable in full on December 19, 1996.
On November 6, 1996, the Company signed a letter of intent with Samsung to
provide a guaranty by Samsung of an additional line of credit of up to $200
million through December 1998. The letter of intent anticipates that an
additional $100 million line of credit will be in place on December 1, 1996, and
a $100 million increase to the additional line of credit will be completed on
April 1, 1997. This guaranty is in addition to the existing $200 million
guaranty provided by Samsung pursuant to an Additional Support Agreement between
the Company and Samsung dated December 21, 1995. In exchange for the additional
guaranty, the letter of intent anticipates that the Company will issue shares of
non-voting preferred stock with an agreed upon value of approximately $15
million. The shares will not be subject to mandatory redemption, but are
redeemable at the Company's option for cash or shares of the Company's common
stock, beginning in 1999. The preferred stock would carry a cumulative
dividend, beginning in 1999, at a rate to be agreed upon. The transaction,
including the exact valuation, redemption provisions and cumulative dividend
rate, is subject to definitive documentation and approvals.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
SEPTEMBER 28, 1996
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table represents the results of operations for the periods
indicated as a percentage of total revenue.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Percentage of Total Revenue Percentage of Total Revenue
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
------------------------------ ------------------------------
September 28, September 30, September 28, September 30,
1996 1995 1996 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales 100.0% 100.0% 98.3% 100.0%
Revenue from related party - - 1.7 -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total revenue 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
Cost of sales 104.6 101.7 101.3 92.2
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit (loss) (4.6) (1.7) (1.3) 7.8
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selling, general and administrative expenses 19.1 18.6 16.3 13.6
Engineering and development expenses 2.2 2.4 2.0 1.6
Restructuring charge - - 0.4 -
Other charges 5.3 - 1.8 -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating loss (31.2) (22.7) (21.8) (7.4)
Financing and other expense, net (1.9) (1.2) (1.6) (0.9)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes (33.1) (23.9) (23.4) (8.3)
Income tax provision (benefit) - - - (0.5)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net loss (33.1%) (23.9%) (23.4%) (7.8%)
=============================================================================================================
The following table represents selected key asset turnover ratios for the
periods indicated:
Days total revenue in accounts receivable 75.9 62.9 62.3 43.9
Inventory turnover (annualized) 8.9 4.7 10.5 6.1
=============================================================================================================
</TABLE>
Total Revenue
Net sales for the quarter ended September 28, 1996 increased 1% to $408.5
million from $403.4 million in the comparable prior-year period. Net sales for
the nine months ended September 28, 1996 declined 15% from $1,735.5 million to
$1,467.2 million. The 1% increase in sales during the quarter ended September
28, 1996 can primarily be attributed strong year-over-year consumer desktop
sales in the U.S. marketplace. Geographically, the 1% increase reflected a 19%
increase in sales in the Americas region, substantially offset by a decline of
14% in international sales. The decrease in net sales for the nine months ended
September 28, 1996 was primarily caused by a 24% decline in international sales.
During both the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28, 1996, total
sales and average selling prices have continued to be negatively impacted due to
an extremely competitive pricing environment. During these periods, the Company
has continued to take aggressive pricing actions within all of its regions to
maintain its competitive market position. The Company anticipates that the
industry's competitive pricing environment will continue and, as a result, that
additional pricing actions may always be necessary in order to maintain its
competitive price and performance product profile. However, there can be no
assurance that future pricing actions will be effective in maintaining existing
unit sales or in stimulating unit sales growth.
In the quarter ended September 28, 1996, the Company's worldwide unit
shipments increased 11% to 273,000 from 245,000 in the comparable prior-year
period. For the nine months ended September 28, 1996, unit shipments decreased
14% to 895,000 from 1,041,000 in the comparable prior-year period. The decrease
in nine-month sales resulting from decreased unit shipments was partially offset
by increased shipments of Pentium(R) processor-based desktop systems and
notebooks, which generally sell at a higher average selling price. Also
impacting overall lower average selling prices was the second quarter
introduction of a 486-based low cost multimedia desktop system made exclusively
for Wal-Mart, which is priced below $1,000. The Company has shipped
approximately 80,000 of these units during the second and third quarter, which
has contributed to a decline in the Company's overall average selling price.
However, this decline was partially offset by the increase in the average
selling price caused by a higher percentage of shipments of Pentium(R)
processor-based systems. The Company intends to continue selling similar
$1,000 price-level systems which could continue to impact the Company's overall
average selling price. The foregoing forward-looking statements involve risks
and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. See
"Additional Factors That May Affect Future Results" herein.
Net sales from desktop system products decreased 1% to $283.2 million in the
third quarter of fiscal year 1996 from $286.2 million in the comparable prior-
year period, and shipments of desktop units increased 14% to 242,000 units from
213,000 in the comparable prior-year period. Net sales from desktop system
products decreased 17% to $1,053.1 million in the nine-month period ended
September 28, 1996 from $1,262.5 million in the comparable prior-year period,
and shipments of desktop units declined 13% to 786,000 units from 906,000 in the
comparable prior-year period. The nine-month decline can primarily be
attributed lower international sales including sales into the People's Republic
of China ("PRC"), aggressive industry pricing actions which led to lower average
selling prices and products, such as the sub-$1,000 Wal-Mart computer. These
declines in average selling prices were partially offset by a higher average
selling price per unit on Pentium(R) processor-based desktop systems. Sales of
the Company's desktop systems represented 69% and 71% of net sales for the third
quarter of fiscal year 1996 and the comparable prior-year period, respectively,
and 72% and 73% for the nine months ended September 28, 1996 and the comparable
prior-year period, respectively.
Net sales from notebook computer products decreased 24% to $58.4 million in
the third quarter of fiscal year 1996 from $76.4 million in the comparable
prior-year period. Unit shipments of notebook computers decreased 3% to 31,000
in the third quarter of fiscal year 1996 from 32,000 in the comparable
prior-year period. The decrease in notebook system sales can primarily be
attributed to lower average selling prices per unit for the quarter ended
September 28, 1996. For the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996,
notebook sales decreased 17%, while unit shipments declined 19%, primarily due
to higher average selling prices per unit on the Pentium(R) processor-based
Ascentia notebook computers. Net sales of the Company's notebook computer
products represented 14% and 19% of net sales for the third quarter of fiscal
year 1996 and the comparable prior-year period, respectively, and 17% and 18%
for the nine months ended September 28, 1996 and the comparable prior-year
period, respectively.
Net sales from the Company's Americas region, which includes the United States
and Canada, increased 19% to $227.5 million in the third quarter of fiscal year
1996, compared to $191.7 million in the comparable prior-year period. For the
nine months ended September 28, 1996, net sales declined 7% to $825.9 million
from $891.0 million in the comparable prior-year period. Net sales to the
independent reseller/dealer sales channel for the second quarter of fiscal year
1996 decreased 45% compared to the comparable prior-year period, and accounted
for 41% of total Americas region sales, while such sales decreased 34% and
accounted for 50% of total Americas region sales for the nine-month period ended
September 28, 1996. Third quarter fiscal year 1996 sales to the consumer retail
sales channel of $133.4 million increased 521% over the comparable prior-year
period, while sales for the nine-month period increased 56% to reach $415.4
million. The increase in the consumer retail channel is primarily the result of
the Company's decision to re-evaluate its consumer retail channel business
strategy in the quarter ended September 30, 1995, plus the shipment of
approximately 45,000 units of its new 486-based low cost multimedia desktop
systems to Wal-Mart during the third quarter of fiscal year 1996.
International sales, which includes the Company's Europe and Asia Pacific
regions, decreased 15% to $180.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal year
1996 from $211.6 million in the comparable prior-year period and decreased 24%
to $641.3 million from $844.5 million for the nine-month period ended September
28, 1996 and the comparable prior-year period, respectively. International
sales represented 44% and 52% of net sales in the third quarter of fiscal year
1996 and the comparable prior-year period, respectively, and represented 44%
and 49% of net sales for the nine-month periods ended September 28, 1996 and
September 30, 1995, respectively. Net sales from the Company's Europe region
decreased 9% in the third quarter and 20% for the nine-month period ended
September 28, 1996 from the comparable prior-year periods with sales declines
occurring primarily within the Company's Nordic territory.
Sales from the Company's Asia Pacific region, which includes Asia, the Pacific
Rim, and the Middle East, declined 22% in the third quarter of fiscal year 1996
and 33% for the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996 from the comparable
prior-year periods. The decrease in net sales was primarily attributable to
sales declines in the PRC, where reduced demand for the Company's products was
caused by an unexpectedly rapid shift in both availability of and resulting
demand for Pentium(R) processor-based systems in the current quarter. Sales
into the PRC accounted for approximately 4% of the Company's net sales in the
third quarter of fiscal year 1996, compared with approximately 7% in the
comparable prior-year period and 3% versus 6% for the nine-month periods ended
September 28, 1996 and September 30, 1995, respectively. Also contributing to
the decline in sales into the PRC was a significant increase in competitive
pressures within the PRC marketplace, including a significant increase in lower
priced products, causing increased pricing pressures. The Company believes that
economic factors such as competitive pricing and a lower margin customer mix
will continue to impact this region's future sales and operating results. The
foregoing forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially. See "Additional Factors That May
Affect Future Results" herein. Although the PRC has historically provided the
Company with significant sales, future sales of the Company's products into the
PRC are highly dependent upon continuing favorable trade relations between the
United States and the PRC, the general economic and political stability of the
region and the competitive position of the Company in the local PRC marketplace.
Economic and political risks in the countries in this geographical area could
have a corresponding impact on future sales and operating results.
The results of the Company's international operations are subject to currency
fluctuations. As the value of the U.S. dollar weakens relative to other
currencies, sales in those currencies convert to more U.S. dollars; conversely,
when the value of the U.S. dollar strengthens relative to other currencies,
sales in those countries convert to fewer U.S. dollars. The Company's net sales
were not affected by fluctuations in the average value of the U.S. dollar
relative to other currencies during the three- or nine-month periods ended
September 28, 1996 compared to an increase of 2.2% and 2.8% in the comparable
prior-year periods, respectively.
Total revenue for the nine months ended September 28, 1996 includes $15.0
million from an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement dated June 27, 1996,
$5 million from a Server Technology Transfer Agreement dated February 22, 1996
and $5 million from a Strategic Consulting Agreement dated February 22, 1996,
each of which is with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ("Samsung"). The
Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement assigns a first group of certain
patent applications of the Company to Samsung in exchange for a payment of $15
million to the Company. Samsung also has an option under this agreement to
purchase another group of patent applications at any time between July 1, 1996
and December 20, 1996, the terms of which will be agreed upon at that time. The
Server Technology Transfer Agreement and the Strategic Consulting Agreement
grants Samsung a royalty-free license through July 31, 2000 to use the technical
information supplied by the Company to produce server technology products and to
use various marketing and sales planning studies provided by the Company,
respectively, in exchange for $5 million for each agreement. The patent
assignment of the first group of patents was completed and both the $15 million
payment and the two $5 million payments are not refundable nor are they
contingent upon the rendering of future services by the Company. A total of $25
million related to these agreements was recorded as revenue from related party
in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended
September 28, 1996.
Gross Profit (Loss)
The Company's gross loss for the third quarter of fiscal year 1996 was 4.6%
compared to a gross loss of 1.7% in the comparable prior-year period. The
increase in the Company's gross loss resulted primarily from the Company's
inability to generate sufficient demand for its products and the continued
aggressive pricing environment within the personal computer marketplace. The
Company's margin for the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996 was a gross
loss of 1.3%, compared to a gross profit of 7.8% in the comparable prior-year
period. This decline was caused by, in addition to the factors noted above for
the third quarter, channel inventory levels which, during period of rapidly
declining average selling prices, resulted in additional price protection costs.
The Company also encountered selected internal product development issues which
led to temporary delays in the shipment of selected consumer product lines in
the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996. Gross margins were also
negatively impacted by the Company's continued aggressive inventory management
efforts which resulted in both lower average selling prices and lower margins on
certain products. Increased warranty and excess and obsolete service inventory
provisions also negatively impacted margins. The increase in the warranty
provision was due to an increase in costs associated with increased warranty
claims while the increased levels of service inventory reserves were due to
higher average service inventory levels.
In the second quarter of fiscal year 1996, the Company approved and
implemented a restructuring plan, separate and apart from the restructuring plan
implemented in transition period 1995, designed to restructure its worldwide
operations into three regional operating groups. The Company's plans include
the consolidation and/or closure of certain regional offices and reconfiguration
centers and the suspension of its notebook manufacturing operations in Taiwan,
accompanied by the transfer of notebook manufacturing to third-party original
equipment manufacturers. As a result of the closure of the Company's notebook
manufacturing operations, the remaining notebook production inventory was
rendered obsolete. In addition, the Company closed a service facility in the
United Kingdom, resulting in excess and obsolete service inventory. The Company
wrote down this excess and obsolete inventory to its net realizable value.
These write-downs were charged to cost of sales, negatively impacting gross
margins by $2.8 million, which reduced gross margins by 0.2 percentage points
for the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996. The Company believes this
charge is directly related to the restructuring and considers the charge to be
non-recurring.
The Company believes that the industry will continue to be characterized by
rapid technological advances and short product life-cycles resulting in
continued risk of product obsolescence. If the Company's products become
technically obsolete, the Company's net sales and profitability may be adversely
affected. The personal computer industry continues to experience significant
pricing pressures and the Company believes that industry consolidation and
restructuring will continue to result in an aggressive pricing environment and
continued pressure on the Company's gross profit margins during fiscal year
1996. During the first nine months of fiscal year 1996, the Company and the
majority of its competitors continued to introduce new, lower-priced, higher-
performance personal computers resulting in continued pricing pressures on both
new and older technology products. Future pricing actions by the Company and
its competitors may continue to adversely impact the Company's gross margins and
profitability, which could also result in decreased liquidity and could
adversely affect the Company's financial position.
The effect of foreign currency fluctuations on sales has a corresponding
impact on gross profit/(loss), as the Company's production costs are incurred
primarily in U.S. dollars. This period-to-period currency fluctuation did not
impact the gross loss for the three- or nine-month periods ended September 28,
1996, compared to an increase of 2.4 and 2.6 percentage points in the comparable
prior-year periods, respectively. If the value of the U.S. dollar strengthens
in the future, gross margins of the Company will be negatively impacted.
The Company's gross loss for the nine months ended September 28, 1996 was
reduced by $25 million, or 1.7 percentage points as a result of related party
revenue transactions with Samsung as previously discussed. The revenue from
these transactions, totaling $25 million, was recorded as revenue from related
party in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations for the
nine months ended September 28, 1996.
Operating Expenses
Total selling, general and administrative expenses in the third quarter of
fiscal year 1996 of $78.0 million increased by $2.8 million from the comparable
prior-year period and represented 19.1% of total revenue, versus 18.6% of total
revenue in the comparable prior-year period. Nine month selling general and
administrative expenses of $243.6 million increased by $6.8 million from the
comparable prior-year period and represented 16.3% of total revenue versus 13.6%
of total revenue in the comparable prior-year period. The increase in selling,
general and administrative expenses during the quarter ended September 28, 1996
over the comparable prior-year period can primarily be attributed to higher
advertising expenses, partially offset by lower payroll and related expenses due
to lower employee headcount. The increase during the nine months ended
September 28, 1996 over the comparable prior-year period can be attributed to
higher advertising and technical support costs, partially offset by lower
payroll and related expenses due to lower employee headcount.
Engineering and development costs for the three-month period ended September
28, 1996 decreased by $0.7 million under the comparable prior-year period.
Engineering and development costs increased by $1.6 million during the nine-
month period ended September 28, 1996, and increased as a percentage of total
revenue, due primarily to higher engineering materials expense related to new
product introductions.
The personal computer industry is characterized by increasingly rapid product
life-cycles. Accordingly, the Company is committed to continued investment in
research and development and believes that the timely introduction of enhanced
products with favorable price/performance features is critical to the Company's
future growth and competitive position in the marketplace. However, there can
be no assurance that the Company's products will continue to be commercially
successful or technically advanced, or that it will be able to deliver
commercial quantities of new products in a timely manner. The foregoing
forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause
actual results to differ materially. See "Additional Factors That May Affect
Future Results" herein.
In the second quarter of fiscal year 1996, the Company approved and
implemented a restructuring plan, separate and apart from the restructuring plan
implemented in transition period 1995, designed to restructure its worldwide
operations into three regional operating groups. The Company's plans include
the consolidation and/or closure of certain regional offices and reconfiguration
centers and the suspension of its notebook manufacturing operations in Taiwan,
accompanied by the transfer of notebook manufacturing to third-party original
equipment manufacturers. In accordance with this plan, the Company recorded a
restructuring charge of approximately $6.5 million in the quarter ended June 29,
1996. Costs included in the restructuring charge consist primarily of employee
severance, asset write-downs and provisions for lease obligations.
Approximately $5.8 million is expected to involve cash disbursements with the
remaining costs primarily involving asset write-downs. The employee severance
will involve approximately 240 employees, across all functions and levels. In
fiscal year 1996, the Company incurred aggregate cash expenditures of $3.4
million and non-cash charges of $0.1 million, consisting primarily of employee
severance, asset write-downs, and payments for lease obligations. As of
September 28, 1996, approximately 230 employees have been terminated under this
plan, and approximately $2.8 million of the original $3.1 million severance
accrual has been paid. At September 28, 1996, approximately $3.0 million of the
restructuring accrual remained on the Company's condensed consolidated balance
sheet, consisting primarily of employee severance, asset write-downs and
provisions for lease obligations. The Company expects that a majority of the
restructuring will be completed by the end of fiscal year 1996, although certain
lease obligations will continue through fiscal year 2001. The foregoing
forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause
actual results to differ materially. See "Additional Factors That May Affect
Future Results" herein.
In addition to the Company's $6.5 million restructuring charge taken in the
second quarter of fiscal year 1996, the Company incurred other charges of $4.7
million, including $1.1 million in asset write-downs directly associated with
its restructuring activities in Europe, and other charges of $3.6 million
related to benefits provided for under the Founder's Agreement with Safi U.
Qureshey, the Company's Chairman Emeritus (discussed below). The Europe asset
write-down charge of approximately $1.1 million was provided as a result of
management's commitment to dispose of its existing sales facility in France and
represents the adjustment required to write the carrying value down of the
facility to its estimated fair value less cost to sell. The Company believes
this charge is directly related to the restructuring and considers it to be non-
recurring.
Effective July 27, 1993, the Company entered into a separate employment
contract ("Founder's Agreement") with founder and former Chairman of the Board
(now Chairman Emeritus), Safi U. Qureshey, who was then serving as the Company's
Chief Executive Officer. The Founder's Agreement provided for five years of
salary, health and welfare benefits, two years of bonus, acceleration of stock
options and certain other benefits if active employment was terminated by the
Company or by Mr. Qureshey under specified conditions. On June 28, 1996, the
Company elected Kwang-Ho Kim as Chairman and named Mr. Qureshey Chairman
Emeritus. As a result of this change, the Founder's Agreement was amended to
allow Mr. Qureshey to exercise his rights under the agreement at any time.
Therefore, in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 88
("SFAS 88"), "Employers' Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined
Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits," the Company provided $3.6
million during the quarter ended June 29, 1996, representing the present value
of the benefits payable to Mr. Qureshey.
In accordance with SFAS No. 121, long-lived assets and certain identifiable
intangibles held and used by the Company are reviewed for impairment whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset
may not be recoverable. The recoverability test is performed at a consolidated
level based on undiscounted net cash flows, because the assets being tested do
not have identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of other asset
groupings.
Because of recent operating losses, the Company has evaluated its long-lived
assets for impairment on a quarterly basis since adoption. Analyses in prior
quarters assumed certain sales growth and gross margin improvements similar to
those achieved from the first quarter to the second quarter of fiscal year 1996.
During the quarter ended September 28, 1996, the Company was unable to achieve
the revenue and gross margin improvements reflected in its cash flow projections
used to evaluate the recoverability of its long-lived assets as of June 28,
1996. As a result, the Company updated its cash flow projections for purposes
of evaluating its long-lived assets for impairment to reflect a reduced level of
sales growth and adjust the period of time and rate by which gross margins are
expected to improve. Based on this updated analysis, the Company has concluded
that its long-lived assets are impaired. The Company has accordingly completed
a preliminary estimate of the fair value of its long-lived assets, and, based on
this estimate, the Company has recorded an impairment charge of approximately
$21.6 million in the quarter ended September 28, 1996. This charge is recorded
in "Other charges" in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of
operations. The Company's estimate of fair values was based upon a combination
of actual appraisals and preliminary discussions with appraisers. During the
quarter ending December 28, 1996, the Company will complete its analysis of the
fair value of its long-lived assets, and, if necessary, will adjust the
impairment charge.
The impairment charge consists of the remaining net book value of goodwill
acquired in connection with the Company's 1993 acquisition of Tandy's personal
computer manufacturing operations. The Company's estimate of the fair value of
its other long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) approximates their net book
value.
Other Income and Expense
In the third quarter of fiscal year 1996, the Company incurred interest
expense of $8.2 million compared to $4.8 million in the comparable prior-year
period. For the nine months ended September 28, 1996, the Company incurred
interest expense of $24.0 million compared to $15.3 million in the comparable
prior-year period. Interest expense increased by $3.4 million and $8.7 million,
respectively, primarily as a result of $4.1 million and $12.3 million of
amortization expense for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28,
1996, respectively, associated with the cost of obtaining a Samsung credit
guarantee in December 1995. The increase in interest expense for the nine-month
period ended September 28, 1996 was partially offset by lower total average
borrowings during this period compared to the comparable prior-year period.
Of the $24.0 million in interest expense for the nine months ended September
28, 1996, approximately $17.4 million did not require cash payments.
Approximately $12.4 million represents amortization of a Samsung credit
guarantee and approximately $5.0 million represents amortization of the discount
and issue costs on the Company's Liquid Yield Option Notes ("LYONs").
For the nine months ended September 28, 1996, the Company recognized net other
expense of $2.5 million compared to net other expense of $2.1 million in the
comparable prior-year period. Other expense relates primarily to net foreign
currency transaction and remeasurement gains and losses and the costs associated
with the Company's foreign currency hedging activities. The Company utilizes a
limited hedging strategy which is designed to minimize the effect of remeasuring
the local currency balance sheets of its foreign subsidiaries on the Company's
consolidated financial position and results of operations. See further
discussion included under "Liquidity and Capital Resources."
Income Tax Provision (Benefit)
The Company recorded an effective income tax provision (benefit) rate of 0%
during the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28, 1996 and 0% and
(6.4%) during the comparable prior-year periods, respectively. The decrease in
the fiscal year 1996 effective tax rate was primarily due to a 100% valuation
allowance provided against additional deferred tax assets (including loss
carryforwards) that arose during fiscal year 1996.
Realization of the deferred tax assets, which primarily relate to net
operating loss carryforwards, inventory reserves and other accrued liabilities,
is dependent on the Company generating approximately $142 million of future
taxable income during applicable carryforward periods. Although the Company is
primarily relying on certain tax planning strategies to generate such future
taxable income, such income could also arise from reversals of existing taxable
temporary differences and/or sales of new and existing products. The timing and
amount of such future taxable income may be impacted by a number of factors,
including those discussed below under "Additional Factors That May Affect Future
Results." To the extent that estimates of future taxable income are reduced or
not realized, the amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable could
be adversely affected.
Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 ("the Code") place
certain limitations on U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and excess credits
if one or more shareholders have increased their aggregate equity ownership of
the Company by more than 50 percentage points, within a three year measurement
period. As a result of recent shareholder equity transactions with Tandy
Corporation ("Tandy") and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. ("Samsung") on July 11,
1996, the Company has experienced a change in ownership as defined in the Code.
Accordingly, the amount of taxable income or income tax in any particular year
that can be offset by net operating loss and tax credit carryforward amounts is
limited to a prescribed annual amount equal to 5.78% of the fair market value of
the Company as of July 11, 1996. Based on preliminary calculations, the Company
does not believe that any of the net operating loss or tax credit carryforward
amounts in the aggregate will be unusable solely as a result of the annual
limitation, although the amounts that can be utilized in any year may be
limited.
Asset Turnover Ratios
Days total revenue in accounts receivable for the three- and nine-month
periods ended September 28, 1996 increased to 75.9 and 62.3 days, respectively,
from 62.9 and 43.9 days, respectively, in the comparable prior-year periods.
The increase is primarily due to the traditionally slower than normal summer
European collections and a larger portion of third quarter revenue occurring in
September 1996 relative to quarterly revenue occurring in the comparable prior-
year period.
Inventory turnover for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28,
1996 increased to 8.9 and 10.5 turns, respectively, from 4.7 and 6.1 turns,
respectively, in the comparable prior-year periods. The increase is primarily
due to improved inventory and supply management practices implemented over the
past year.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's ability to fund its activities from operations is directly
dependent upon its rate of growth, ability to effectively manage its inventory,
the terms under which suppliers extend credit to the Company, the terms under
which the Company extends credit to its customers and its ability to collect
under such terms, the manner in which it finances any capital expansion, and the
Company's ability to access external sources of financing. While the Company
currently has adequate sources of external financing available to meet its
current operating requirements assuming implementation of the transactions
contemplated by the letter of intent between the Company and Samsung dated
November 7, 1996 (discussed below), these sources of external financing are
supported by a guaranty and a short-term loan provided by Samsung. The Company
has not determined what steps it will take with respect to the expiration of the
original additional support agreement in December 1997. Currently, the
Company's ability to fund its operations is highly dependent on continued
support from Samsung. However, if the Company is unable to arrange for
additional external financing in December 1997, or is unable to obtain
additional financial support from Samsung, there would be a material adverse
effect on the Company's ability to meet its operating requirements, and on its
business, financial position and results of operations.
Working capital of $16.0 million at September 28, 1996 included cash and cash
equivalents of $30.0 million compared to working capital of $223.5 million and
cash and cash equivalents of $125.4 million at December 30, 1995. Net cash used
in operating activities for the nine-month period ended September 28, 1996 of
$129.8 million was primarily used to fund the Company's current period operating
loss. In addition to the decrease in cash and cash equivalents, the decrease in
working capital can primarily be attributed to lower inventory and other current
assets, plus higher accounts payable and short-term borrowings. The impact of
these items on working capital was partially offset by the payment of the $90
million note payable to Tandy. The reduction in inventory was primarily due to
improved inventory and supply management. The reduction in accounts receivable
was primarily due to lower sales in the quarter ended September 28, 1996
compared to the quarter ended December 30, 1995. The Company had $124.0 million
in short-term borrowings at September 28, 1996 compared to $75.0 million at
December 30, 1995.
Net cash used in investing activities was $12.8 million compared to $23.9
million in the comparable prior-year period. The decrease in cash used during
the first nine months of fiscal year 1996 compared with the comparable prior-
year period was primarily due to a decrease in purchases of other assets, which
was related to the prepayment of a licensing agreement in the prior-year period.
Net capital expenditures totaled $12.7 million in the first nine months of
fiscal year 1996 compared to $12.3 million in the comparable prior-year period.
Capital expenditures consisted primarily of additions to plant and production
equipment and software and implementation costs associated with the Company's
new worldwide transaction-based information system. The Company expects its
total fiscal year 1996 capital expenditures to be somewhat greater than those
incurred in the prior year, as it continues with the implementation of the new
worldwide transaction-based information system. The foregoing forward-looking
statement involves risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to
differ materially. See "Additional Factors That May Affect Future Results"
herein.
Net cash provided by financing activities of $47.0 million was due primarily
to the proceeds from short-term borrowings of $49.0 million and from common
stock issued to Samsung for cash of $60 million, partially offset by repayment
of long-term debt. On July 11, 1996, the Company paid the $90 million
promissory note due to Tandy related to the Company's 1993 acquisition of
Tandy's personal computer manufacturing operations. Payment was in the form of
4,498,594 shares of the Company's common stock, then valued at $30 million, and
$60 million in cash. Subsequent to the issuance of shares to Tandy, also on
July 11, 1996, the Company issued 8,499,336 shares of its common stock to
Samsung in exchange for $60 million in cash that was used to pay Tandy. The
issuance of common stock to Samsung was made pursuant to the 1995 Letter of
Credit Agreement between the Company and Samsung. The Company's working capital
increased by $60 million, and its total shareholders' equity increased by $90
million after completion of the payment of the Tandy note, and issuance of its
common stock to Tandy and Samsung.
The Company regularly reviews its cash funding requirements on a consolidated
basis and attempts to meet those requirements through a combination of cash on
hand, cash provided by operations, available borrowings under any credit
facilities and possible future public or private debt and/or equity offerings.
The Company utilizes a centralized corporate approach for its cash management
activities and attempts to maximize the use of its consolidated cash resources
so as to minimize additional debt requirements while complying with any legal or
other restrictions upon the free flow of funds from one segment, division or
subsidiary to another. The Company invests its excess cash in investment grade
short-term money market instruments.
On November 6, 1996, the Company signed a letter of intent with Samsung to
provide a guaranty by Samsung of an additional line of credit of up to $200
million through December 1998. The letter of intent anticipates that an
additional $100 million line of credit will be in place on December 1, 1996, and
a $100 million increase to the additional line of credit will be completed on
April 1, 1997. This guaranty is in addition to the existing $200 million
guaranty provided by Samsung pursuant to an Additional Support Agreement between
the Company and Samsung dated December 21, 1995. In exchange for the additional
guaranty, the letter of intent anticipates that the Company will issue shares of
non-voting preferred stock with an agreed upon value of approximately $15
million. The shares will not be subject to mandatory redemption, but are
redeemable at the Company's option for cash or shares of the Company's common
stock, beginning in 1999. The preferred stock would carry a cumulative
dividend, beginning in 1999, at a rate to be agreed upon. The transaction,
including the exact valuation, redemption provisions and cumulative dividend
rate, is subject to definitive documentation and approvals.
On October 11, 1996, Samsung provided a $50 million short-term loan to the
Company at an interest rate of 5.9% per annum. Interest and principal on the
loan are due and payable in full on December 19, 1996. The Company expects to
repay this loan with proceeds from the additional credit line to be established
on December 1, 1996.
On December 21, 1995, the Company signed an Additional Support Agreement with
Samsung that provides additional financial support to the Company, including a
guaranty by Samsung of a line of credit of up to $200 million through December
1997 and a vendor line of credit with Samsung of $100 million through November
1997 for component purchases. In exchange for the additional financial support,
the Company issued an option to Samsung to purchase 4.4 million shares of the
Company's common stock at an exercise price of $.01 per share, exercisable
between July 1, 1996 and June 30, 2001, and allowed Samsung to add an additional
member to the Company's Board of Directors. The benefits received in exchange
for the option were recorded in "Other assets" based on the fair value of the
option at the date of issuance, or $31.0 million. In connection with this
agreement, the Company incurred professional fees of approximately $2.0 million,
which were also capitalized. This other asset will be amortized on a straight-
line basis to interest expense over the benefit period ending December 1997.
On December 27, 1995, the Company entered into a $100 million revolving credit
agreement, guaranteed by Samsung as part of the Additional Support Agreement,
with a final maturity date of December 25, 1996. The revolving credit agreement
allows the Company to borrow at a rate of LIBOR plus .25% per annum, or the
bank's reference rate, at the Company's option. The Company is required to pay
a commitment fee equal to .125% per annum based on the average daily unused
portion of the facility. The fee is payable quarterly in arrears. On March 6,
1996, the total amount available for borrowings under the facility and
guaranteed by Samsung was increased to $200 million. All other terms of the
credit agreement remained unchanged. At September 28, 1996, there was $124.0
million outstanding as borrowings under this credit facility at an average
interest rate of 6.06% per annum.
On December 14, 1993, the Company issued $315 million par value of Liquid
Yield Option Notes ("LYONs") due December 14, 2013 and received total proceeds
of approximately $111.7 million. The LYONs are zero coupon convertible
subordinated notes which were sold at a significant discount from par value with
a yield to maturity of 5.25% and a total value at maturity of $315.0 million
payable in cash. There are no periodic payments of interest on the LYONs. Each
$1,000 principal amount at maturity of LYONs is convertible into 12.993 shares
of the Company's common stock at any time. Upon conversion of a LYON, the
Company may elect to deliver shares of common stock at the conversion rate or
cash equal to the market value of the shares of common stock into which the
LYONs are convertible. The holder of a LYON may require the Company to purchase
all or a portion of its LYONs on December 14, 1998, December 14, 2003 and
December 14, 2008 (the "Purchase Dates"), and such payments may reduce the
liquidity of the Company. However, the Company may, subject to certain
exceptions, elect to pay the purchase price on any of the three Purchase Dates
in cash or shares of common stock based upon its then fair market value as
defined in the indenture, or any combination thereof. The Company has made no
decision as to whether it will meet these future purchase obligations in cash,
common stock, or any combination thereof. Such decision will be based on market
conditions at the time a decision is required, as well as management's view of
the liquidity of the Company at such time. In addition, as of 35 business days
after the occurrence of any change in control of the Company occurring on or
prior to December 14, 1998, each LYON will be purchased for cash by the Company,
at the option of the holder, for a change in control purchase price equal to the
issue price of the LYONs plus accrued original issue discount through the date
set for such purchase. A change in control of the Company is deemed to have
occurred under the terms of the LYONs at such time as any person, other than the
Company, has become the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Company's common
stock or the Company is not the surviving corporation of any consolidation or
merger of the Company. Samsung's ownership of the Company's common stock of
approximately 49.6% after the issuance of shares in connection with the payment
of the Tandy note on July 11, 1996 and assuming exercise of its option on 4.4
million shares of common stock as part of the Additional Support Agreement, does
not constitute a change in control for purposes of the LYONs. In addition, the
Stockholder Agreement between the Company and Samsung dated July 31, 1995,
prohibits Samsung from acquiring in excess of 49.9% of the common stock of the
Company until after the close of business on December 14, 1998, when the change
in control provisions of the LYONs expire. Accordingly, the Company currently
does not anticipate a change in control to occur for purposes of triggering the
LYONs.
Foreign Exchange Hedging
In the ordinary course of business and as part of the Company's asset and
liability management, the Company enters into various types of transactions that
involve contracts and financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. The
Company utilizes foreign exchange contracts and foreign currency borrowings to
hedge its exposure to foreign exchange rate fluctuations impacting its U.S.
dollar consolidated financial statements. The Company attempts to minimize its
exposure to foreign currency transaction and remeasurement gains and losses due
to the effect of remeasuring the local currency balance sheets of its foreign
subsidiaries on the Company's consolidated financial position and results of
operations by utilizing a limited hedging strategy which has included the use of
foreign currency borrowings, the netting of foreign currency assets and
liabilities and forward exchange contracts. The actual gain or loss associated
with forward exchange contracts are limited to the contract amount multiplied by
the value of the exchange rate differential between the time the contract is
entered into and the time it matures. The Company typically holds all of its
contracts until maturity and enters forward contracts ranging in maturity dates
from one to nine months. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on the
forward contracts are recognized currently in the consolidated statements of
operations, and any premium or discount is recognized over the life of the
contract. Some foreign locations, such as the PRC, do not allow open market
hedging of their currencies and, therefore, the Company is not able to hedge all
of its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations.
The Company held forward exchange contracts maturing at various dates through
March 1997 with a face value of approximately $120.5 million at September 28,
1996. The face value of the contracts approximates the Company's hedgeable net
monetary asset exposure to foreign currency fluctuations. Unrealized losses
associated with these forward contracts totaling $9.6 million at September 28,
1996 are included in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
Foreign currency borrowings at September 28, 1996 totaled $1.7 million.
ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
The Company's ability to fund its activities from operations is directly
dependent upon its rate of growth, ability to effectively manage its inventory,
the terms under which suppliers extend credit to the Company, the terms under
which the Company extends credit to its customers and its ability to collect
under such terms, the manner in which it finances any capital expansion, and the
Company's ability to access external sources of financing. While the Company
currently has adequate sources of external financing available to meet its
current operating requirements assuming implementation of the transactions
contemplated by the letter of intent between the Company and Samsung dated
November 7, 1996 (discussed below), these sources of external financing are
supported by a guaranty and a short-term loan provided by Samsung. The Company
has not determined what steps it will take with respect to the expiration of the
original additional support agreement in December 1997. Currently, the
Company's ability to fund its operations is highly dependent on continued
support from Samsung. However, if the Company is unable to arrange for
additional external financing in December 1997, or is unable to obtain
additional financial support from Samsung, there would be a material adverse
effect on the Company's ability to meet its operating requirements, and on its
business, financial position and results of operations.
Future operating results may be impacted by a number of factors that could
cause actual results to differ materially from those stated herein, which
reflect management's current expectations. These factors include worldwide
economic and political conditions, industry specific factors, the Company's
ability to maintain access to external financing sources (including Samsung) and
its financial liquidity, the Company's ability to timely develop and produce
commercially viable products at competitive prices, the availability and cost of
components, the Company's ability to manage expense levels, the continued
financial strength of the Company's dealers and distributors, and the Company's
ability to accurately anticipate customer demand.
The Company's future success will be highly dependent upon its ability to
develop, produce and market products that incorporate new technology, are priced
competitively and achieve significant market acceptance. There can be no
assurance that the Company's products will be technically advanced or
commercially successful due to the rapid improvements in computer technology and
resulting product obsolescence. There is also no assurance that the Company
will be able to deliver commercial quantities of new products in a timely
manner. The success of new product introductions is dependent on a number of
factors, including market acceptance, the Company's ability to manage risks
associated with product transitions, the effective management of inventory
levels in line with anticipated product demand and the timely manufacturing of
products in appropriate quantities to meet anticipated demand. The Company
regularly introduces new products designed to replace existing products. While
the Company attempts to closely monitor new product introductions and product
obsolescence, there can be no assurance that such transitions will occur without
adversely affecting the Company's net sales, cash flow and profitability. In
addition, if the Company is unable to successfully anticipate and manage shifts
in personal computer technology, the Company's product life cycles could be
negatively impacted and may continue to have a material adverse effect on the
Company's net sales, cash flow and profitability.
The Company has, over the past two years, had difficulty in bringing products
to market. Product development delays have occurred for a variety of reasons,
primarily resulting from difficulties in the Company's product development
processes. While the Company has focused on these issues and believes that
improved processes and procedures have been designed and implemented, there can
be no assurance that these new processes and procedures will be successful. If
these improved processes and procedures are not successful, there could continue
to be material adverse effects on the Company's net sales, cash flow, and
profitability.
The Company believes that its production capacity and the production capacity
of its original equipment manufacturer supplier for the products it manufactures
and purchases should be sufficient to support anticipated unit volumes for the
foreseeable future. However, if the Company is unable to obtain certain key
components, or to effectively forecast customer demand or manage its inventory,
increased inventory obsolescence or reduced utilization of production capacity
could adversely impact the Company's gross margins and results of operations.
Increases in demand for personal computers have created industrywide
shortages, which at times have resulted in premium prices being paid for key
components, such as flat panel display screens, dynamic random access memory
chips ("DRAMs"), static random access memory chips, CD-ROM drives and monitors.
These shortages have occasionally resulted in the Company's inability to procure
these components in sufficient quantities to meet demand for its products. In
addition, a number of the Company's products include certain components, such as
microprocessors, video chips, core logic, modems, lithium ion batteries, static
random access memory chips and application specific integrated circuits, that
are occasionally purchased from single sources due to availability, price,
quality or other considerations. These single source suppliers include
purchases of selected lithium ion batteries from Sony Corporation as well as
selected core logic from Intel Corporation. In addition, the Company also
purchases a majority of its microprocessor requirements from Intel Corporation
and a majority of random access memory chips from Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
The Company purchases both components and selected finished goods pursuant to
purchase orders placed in the ordinary course of business and has no guaranteed
supply arrangements with single source suppliers. Reliance on suppliers
generally involves risks, including the possibility of defective parts, a
shortage of components, an increase in component costs and disruptions in
delivery of components. Should delays, defects or shortages re-occur or
component costs significantly increase, the Company's net sales and
profitability could be adversely affected.
Presently, the Company's notebook products are manufactured by outside vendors
including Quanta Computer, Inc. and Compal Electronics, Inc. in Taiwan. These
original equipment manufacturers are subject to the risks inherent in notebook
computing technology, development and manufacturing. As a result, the Company's
ability to bring its notebook products to market is highly dependent upon these
third-party vendors to effectively design, develop and manufacture these
products. Should these companies not be able to design, develop or manufacture
the Company's products in a timely manner, the Company's net sales, cash flows,
and profitability could be adversely affected.
The Company and Samsung have entered into strategic agreements covering a
broad range of commercial relationships including, among others, component
supply agreements for certain critical components manufactured by Samsung and
used by the Company in the manufacture of personal computers and a joint
procurement agreement providing a mechanism for Samsung and the Company to
coordinate their purchases from third parties in order to obtain more favorable
pricing. However, as Samsung is a supplier of critical components in a highly
competitive marketplace, other suppliers may be less likely to extend attractive
terms to or to do business with the Company. In addition, because Samsung has
other business involvements typical of large, multi-national companies and is
not based in the U.S., it is possible that some additional suppliers, customers,
employees and others will not react favorably to Samsung's investment in the
Company.
Samsung is a critical supplier of components to the Company and is based in
South Korea. Political turmoil between North and South Korea could adversely
affect the Company's operations.
In December 1995, the Company implemented a restructuring plan designed to
increase its utilization of third-party board manufacturing and design and to
realign its Asia Pacific manufacturing operations. The Company's increased
reliance on third-party board manufacturers involves risks, including the
possibility of defective boards, a shortage of boards, an increase in board
costs and disruptions in delivery of boards. Should delays, defects or
shortages occur or board costs significantly increase, the Company's net sales
and profitability could be adversely affected. Although the Company believes
that the restructuring activities were necessary, no assurance can be given that
the restructuring action will be successful or that similar action will not be
required in the future.
The ongoing introduction of new technologies across all of the Company's
product lines is intended to enable the Company to keep pace with rapid market
changes and to minimize the effect of continued competitive pricing. However,
there can be no assurance that the Company will have the financial resources,
marketing and distribution capability, or the technological knowledge to compete
successfully. In addition, the Company's results of operations could be
adversely impacted if it is unable to effectively implement its technological
and marketing alliances with other companies, such as Microsoft and Intel, and
manage the competitive risks associated with these relationships.
The Company's ability to compete is largely dependent upon its financial
strength and its ability to adequately fund its operations. Many of the
Company's competitors are significantly larger and have significantly greater
financial resources than the Company. The Company's sources of financing
include cash on hand, cash provided by operations, available borrowings under
its revolving credit facility and possible future public or private debt and/or
equity offerings. The Company's future success is highly dependent upon its
continued access to sources of financing which it believes are necessary for the
continued growth of the Company. The Company currently has a $200 million
revolving credit facility guaranteed by Samsung and, as noted herein, has signed
a letter of intent with Samsung to provide an additional $200 million credit
guaranty. However, in the event the Company is unable to maintain access to its
existing financing sources, or increase them as required, there would be a
material adverse effect on the Company's business operations.
The Company participates in a highly competitive and volatile industry that is
characterized by dynamic customer demand patterns, rapid introduction of new
products, technological advances and product obsolescence resulting in an
extremely competitive pricing environment with downward pressure on gross
margins. In addition, large industrial companies with significant consumer
electronics expertise, including such companies at Sony, Fujitsu, Hitachi and
Toshiba have entered or increased the personal computer marketplace with
products competing for market share with the Company's products, leading to
increased competition and downward pricing pressures. The Company anticipates
that the personal computer industry will continue to experience intense price
competition and dramatic price reductions. There can be no assurance that
future pricing actions by the Company and its competitors will not adversely
impact the Company's net sales and profitability.
Consistent with industry practice, the Company provides certain of its larger
distributors, consumer retailers and dealers with stock rebalancing and price
protection rights that permit these distributors, retailers and dealers to
return slow-moving products to the Company for credit or to receive price
adjustments if the Company lowers the price of selected products within certain
time periods. Stock rebalancing programs allow customers to return product and
receive credit for the invoiced price less any post-sale pricing reductions.
Partially offsetting the credit issued is the value of the product which is
returned. The Company, as part of its revenue recognition policy, estimates the
expected returns and reduces both sales and cost of sales accordingly. Stock
rebalancing and price protection credits represented 6.3% of net sales during
the first nine months of fiscal year 1996, 4.2% during transition period 1995,
4.0% for fiscal year 1995, and 2.1% for fiscal year 1994. If sales and pricing
trends experienced in the current year continue or accelerate, there can be no
assurance that the Company will not experience rates of return or price
protection adjustments that adversely impact the Company's net sales and
profitability in the future.
The Company's primary means of distribution continues to be third-party
computer resellers and consumer retailers. While the Company continuously
monitors and manages the credit it extends to its customers to limit its credit
risk, the Company's business could be adversely affected in the event that the
financial condition of its customers weakens. In the event of the financial
failure of a major customer, the Company would experience disruptions in its
distribution as well as the loss of the unsecured portion of any outstanding
accounts receivable.
General economic conditions have an impact on the Company's business and
financial results. From time to time, the markets in which the Company sells
its products experience weak economic conditions that may negatively affect
sales of the Company's products. Although the Company does not consider its
business to be highly seasonal, it has historically experienced seasonally
higher sales in the consumer retail sales channel in the quarter ended in
December due to strong holiday demand for some of its products in certain
regions.
The Company's international operations may be affected by changes in United
States trade relationships, increased competition and the political and economic
stability of the locations in which sales occur. The Company operates in
foreign locations, such as the PRC, where future sales may be dependent upon
continuing favorable trade relations. Additionally, foreign locations such as
the PRC and Taiwan may experience changes in their general economic stability
due to such factors as increased inflation and political turmoil. Also,
political tensions between the PRC and Taiwan could adversely affect the
Company's operations, particularly its notebook production. Any significant
change in United States trade relations or the economic or political stability
of foreign locations in which the Company operates could have an adverse effect
on the Company's net sales and profitability.
The Company's international operations are also affected by foreign currency
fluctuations. The financial statements of the Company's foreign subsidiaries
are remeasured into the United States dollar functional currency for
consolidated reporting purposes. Gains and losses resulting from this
remeasurement process are recognized currently in the consolidated results of
operations. The Company attempts to minimize the impact of these remeasurement
gains and losses by utilizing a limited hedging strategy which includes the use
of foreign currency borrowings, the netting of foreign currency assets and
liabilities, and forward exchange contracts. The Company's exposure to currency
fluctuations will continue to increase as a result of the expansion of its
international operations. Significant fluctuations in currency values could
have an adverse effect on the Company's net sales, gross margins and
profitability.
The personal computer industry presents risks for claims of infringement of
patents, trademarks and copyrights. From time to time, the Company is notified
that certain of its products may infringe upon the intellectual property rights
of others. The Company generally evaluates all such notices on a case-by-case
basis to determine whether licenses are necessary or desirable. If such claims
are made, there can be no assurance that licenses will be available on
commercially reasonable terms or that retroactive royalty payments on sales of
the Company's computer products will not be required. In addition, substantial
costs may be incurred in disputing such claims. The Company believes that the
actions it takes to avoid or minimize the impact to the Company of such claims
are prudent; however, there can be no assurance that such claims will not occur
or would not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business operations
and profitability. Pursuant to its Strategic Alliance Agreement with Samsung
dated February 27, 1995, the Company has a patent cross license agreement with
Samsung dated July 31, 1995 that expires on July 31, 2005.
In determining the amount of the valuation allowance required to be
established against deferred tax assets in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income
Taxes," the Company has primarily relied upon its ability to generate future
taxable income using certain available tax planning strategies. The amount of
taxable income that could actually be generated from such tax planning
strategies is dependent upon the Company being able to sell certain appreciated
assets at the current estimated fair market value. Although the Company has
utilized an outside valuation firm to determine the current estimated fair
market value of such assets, changes in market conditions could result in a
reduction of the estimated fair market value of these assets that would
adversely affect the amount of the valuation allowance and reduce the amount of
net deferred tax assets considered realizable. In addition, at July 11, 1996,
the sale and issuance of common stock resulted in a change of ownership for
purposes of limitations on net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The
application of those limitations adds uncertainty as to the Company's ability to
utilize its net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards.
The Company's corporate headquarters facility, at which the majority of its
research and development activities are conducted, is located near major
earthquake faults which have experienced earthquakes in the past. While the
Company does carry insurance at levels management believes to be prudent, in the
event of a major earthquake or other disaster affecting one or more of the
Company's facilities, it is likely that insurance proceeds would not cover all
of the costs incurred and, therefore, the operations and operating results of
the Company could be adversely affected.
Because of these and other factors affecting the Company's operating results,
past financial performance should not be considered a reliable indicator of
future performance, and investors should not use historical trends to anticipate
results or trends in future periods.
The Company's participation in the highly competitive personal computer
industry often results in significant volatility in the Company's common stock
price. Factors such as new product introductions, price changes or other
announcements by the Company or its competitors, as well as quarterly variations
in the financial results of the Company, have caused substantial fluctuations in
the market price of the Company's common stock. In addition, the stock market
has experienced and continues to experience price and volume fluctuations that
have particularly affected the market price for securities of many companies
within the technology sector. These broad market fluctuations, as well as
general economic and political conditions may materially adversely affect the
market price of the Company's common stock and/or the Company's ability to raise
capital.
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements
that are based on current expectations. In light of the important factors that
can materially affect results, including those set forth above and elsewhere in
this Form 10-Q, the inclusion of forward-looking information herein should not
be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the
objectives or plans of the Company will be achieved. The Company may encounter
competitive, technological, financial, legal and business challenges making it
more difficult than expected to continue to develop, market, manufacture and
ship new products on a timely basis; competitive conditions within the personal
computer industry may change adversely; demand for the Company's products may
weaken; the market may not accept the Company's new products; the Company may be
unable to retain existing key management personnel; inventory risks may rise due
to shifts in market demand; the Company's forecasts may not accurately
anticipate market demand; and there may be other material adverse changes in the
Company's operations or business. Certain important presumptions affecting the
forward-looking statements made herein include, but are not limited to (i)
timely identifying, designing, and delivering new products as well as enhancing
existing products, (ii) implementing current restructuring plans, (iii)
defending positions with the IRS and in the legal proceedings described above,
results of such undertakings being difficult to assess and potential material
adverse effects due to ultimate loss on substantive issues or the substantial
expense and loss of time connected with defense of claims, (iv) accurately
forecasting capital expenditures, and (v) obtaining new sources of external
financing prior to the expiration of existing or contemplated support
arrangements entered into with Samsung. Assumptions relating to budgeting,
marketing, advertising, product development, litigation, taxation and other
management decisions are subjective in many respects and thus susceptible to
interpretations and periodic revisions based on actual experience and business
developments, the impact of which may cause the Company to alter its marketing,
capital expenditure or other budgets, which may in turn affect the Company's
financial position and results of operations.
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") is currently examining the Company's 1989,
1990 and 1991 federal income tax returns. In addition, the IRS has completed
its examination of the Company's 1987 and 1988 federal income tax returns and
has proposed adjustments to the Company's federal income tax liabilities for
such years. Initially, the IRS had proposed adjustments of approximately $8.2
million, plus accrued interest of $10.3 million. The proposed adjustments relate
to the allocation of income and deductions between the Company and its foreign
subsidiaries. Following the Company's request for an administrative conference
to appeal the proposed adjustments, the IRS Appeals Office returned the case to
the Examination Office for further development, because the method used in
determining the original proposed adjustments was not adopted in the final
regulations. After its re-examination, the IRS proposed revised adjustments of
approximately $12.6 million, plus accrued interest of $16.5 million. Management
believes that the Company's position has substantial merit and intends to
vigorously contest these proposed adjustments. Management further believes that
any aggregate liability that may result upon the final resolution of the
proposed adjustments for 1987 and 1988 or the current examinations of 1989, 1990
and 1991 will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated
financial position or results of operations. However, management is unable to
estimate the amount of any loss that may be realized in the event of an
unfavorable outcome.
The Company has been named as a defendant or co-defendant, generally with
other personal computer manufacturers, including such companies as IBM, AT&T,
Unisys, Digital Equipment Corporation, NEC, Olivetti, NCR, Panasonic, and
Matsushita, in eighteen similar lawsuits each of which alleges as a factual
basis the occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive stress injuries.
The suits naming the Company are just a few of the many lawsuits of this type
which have been filed, often naming IBM and other major computer companies. The
claims against the Company total in excess of $100 million in compensatory
damages and punitive damages and additional unspecified amounts. The Company
has denied or is in the process of denying the claims and intends to vigorously
defend the suits. The Company is unable at this time to predict the ultimate
outcome of these suits. Ultimate resolution of the litigation against the
Company may depend on progress in resolving this type of litigation overall.
The Company is currently unable to estimate the amount of any loss that may be
realized in the event of an unfavorable outcome. However, before consideration
of any potential insurance recoveries, the Company believes that the claims in
the suits filed against it will not have a material impact on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations. The Company has
maintained various liability insurance policies during the periods covering the
claims above. While such policies may limit coverage under certain
circumstances, the Company believes that it is adequately insured. Should the
Company not be successful in defending against such lawsuits or not be able to
claim compensation under its liability insurance policies, the Company's results
of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
The Company was named, along with twelve other personal computer companies, as
a defendant in a lawsuit filed on March 27, 1995 in the Superior Court for the
County of Merced, California. The case name for this March 27, 1995 filing is
People v. Acer, et al., and the complaint alleged that the Company has engaged
in deceptive advertising and unlawful business practices in relation to computer
monitor screen measurements. The People v. Acer lawsuit was resolved by a
Stipulated Judgment that the Company signed along with representatives of all
other defendants. The Company was named, along with three other personal
computer or monitor companies, as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed on
May 2, 1995 in the Superior Court for the County of Marin, California. The case
name for this May 2, 1995 filing is Kaplan, et al. v. Viewsonic, et al., and
alleges that the defendants have engaged in unfair business practices, false
advertising and breach of implied warranty concerning the advertisement of the
size of computer monitor screens. The Company was named, along with 37 other
defendants, in a class action lawsuit, Long v. Packard Bell, et al., filed on
August 21, 1995 in the Superior Court for the County of Orange, California,
which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company was named, along with nine other defendants, in a class
action lawsuit, Randy Davis, Ph.D., Inc. v. AST Research, et al., filed on
August 23, 1995 in Superior Court for the County of Orange, California, which
alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company was named, along with 35 other defendants, in a class
action lawsuit, Sutter v. Acer, et al., filed on September 7, 1995 in the
Superior Court for the County of Sacramento, California, which alleges certain
claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer monitors. The
Company was named, along with 41 other defendants, in a class action lawsuit,
Shapiro v. ADI Systems, Inc., et al., filed on August 14, 1995 in Santa Clara
County, California, which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of
the sizes of computer monitors. The Company was named, along with 29 other
defendants, in a class action lawsuit, Maizes & Maizes, et al., v. Apple
Computer Inc., et al., filed on December 15, 1995 in Essex County, New Jersey,
which alleges certain claims concerning the advertising of the sizes of computer
monitors. The Company is currently unable to estimate the amount of any loss
that may be realized in the event of an unfavorable outcome. However, based on
preliminary facts available to the Company, management does not believe that the
outcome of these disputes will have a material adverse impact on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company was named as a defendant in a lawsuit filed on June 7, 1995 in the
Superior Court for the County of Orange, California. The case name for this
filing is Competitive Technology v. AST Research, Inc., and the complaint
alleges that the Company intentionally interfered with contracts between
Competitive Technology and Daewoo concerning the supply of computer monitors to
the Company. On October 9, 1996, there was a jury verdict against the Company
for an amount that does not have a material adverse effect on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company is also subject to other legal proceedings and claims that arise
in the normal course of business. While the outcome of these proceedings and
claims cannot be predicted with certainty, management does not believe that the
outcome of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the
Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations. The
foregoing forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially. See "Additional Factors That May
Affect Future Results" under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations."
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
10.5 Loan Agreement and Promissory Note dated October 11, 1996
between AST Research, Inc. and Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
(incorporated by reference to exhibit number 99.3 in the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on November 11, 1996).
10.6 Letter of intent dated November 6, 1996, between AST
Research, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (incorporated by
reference to exhibit number 99.4 in the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
November 11, 1996).
11. Computation of Net Income (Loss) Per Share.
27. Financial Data Schedule.
* Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or
arrangement.
# Filed herewith.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
On July 12, 1996, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K reporting,
under Item 5 thereof, that it has paid a $90 million promissory note due
to Tandy corporation related to the 1993 acquisition of Tandy's PC
manufacturing operations. Payment was in the form of 4,498,594 shares
of the Company's common stock valued at $30 million and $60 million in
cash, The Company also announced that subsequent to the issuance of
shares to Tandy; also on July 11, 1996, the Company issued 8,499,336
shares of its Common Stock to Samsung in exchange for $60 million in
cash that was used to pay Tandy. Finally, the Company announced that as
a result of these transactions, its U.S. net operating loss carry
forwards are subject to an annual limitation in accordance with Section
382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
On August 27, 1996, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K reporting,
under Item 5 thereof, that Ian Diery resigned as President and Chief
Executive Officer. The Company also announced that the Board of
Directors appointed Young-Soo Kim as President and Chief Executive
Officer.
On July 31, 1996, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K reporting,
under Item 5 thereof, effective July 29, 1996, Carmelo J. Santoro,
Ph.D., resigned as a board member of the Company.
On September 6, 1996, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K reporting,
under Item 5 thereof, that Joseph E. Norberg resigned as Senior Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer. The Company also announced that
it is commencing a search to fill the CFO position and that Won Suk
Yang, Senior Executive Managing Director of Samsung, and a director of
the Company, will serve as acting CFO in the interim.
On September 18, 1996, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K reporting,
under Item 5 thereof, that Noh Byung Park has been named Senior Vice
President, Worldwide Product Development and Manufacturing and an
officer of the Company.
AST, Advantage!, and GRiD are registered trademarks of AST Research, Inc.
Ascentia, Bravo, Premmia and Manhattan are trademarks of AST Research, Inc.
Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Windows is a registered
trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Tandy is a registered trademark of Tandy
Corporation. All other product or service names mentioned herein may be
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
SIGNATURE
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.
AST Research, Inc.
(Registrant)
Date: November 12, 1996 /s/ WON S. YANG
----------------------------------
Won S. Yang
Senior Vice President
and Acting Chief Financial Officer
EXHIBIT 11
AST RESEARCH, INC.
COMPUTATION OF NET LOSS PER SHARE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
---------------------------- -----------------------------
September 28, September 30, September 28, September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts) 1996 1995 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Primary loss per share
- ---------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shares used in computing primary loss per share:
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding 56,164 40,762 48,523 35,177
Effect of stock options treated as common stock equivalents
under the treasury stock method - - - -
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding 56,164 40,762 48,523 35,177
===========================================================================================================================
Net loss $ (135,268) $ (96,382) $ (349,758) $ (134,561)
===========================================================================================================================
Loss per share - primary $ (2.41) $ (2.36) $ (7.21) $ (3.83)
===========================================================================================================================
Fully diluted loss per share
- ---------------------------------------
Shares used in computing fully diluted loss per share:
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding 56,164 40,762 48,523 35,177
Effect of stock options treated as common stock equivalents
under the treasury stock method - - - -
Shares assumed issued on conversion of
Liquid Yield Option Notes (LYONs) - - - -
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total fully diluted shares outstanding 56,164 40,762 48,523 35,177
===========================================================================================================================
Net loss - fully diluted earnings per share:
Net loss $ (135,268) $ (96,382) $ (349,758) $ (134,561)
Adjustment for interest on LYONs, net of tax - - - -
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted net loss $ (135,268) $ (96,382) $ (349,758) $ (134,561)
===========================================================================================================================
Loss per share - fully diluted $ (2.41) $ (2.36) $ (7.21) $ (3.83)
===========================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of
Operations and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial
statements.
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-28-1996<F1>
<PERIOD-END> SEP-28-1996
<CASH> 28,851
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 364,186
<ALLOWANCES> 19,825
<INVENTORY> 192,349
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 615,090
<PP&E> 177,035
<DEPRECIATION> 82,289
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 785,841
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 599,134
<BONDS> 128,563
0
0
<COMMON> 577
<OTHER-SE> 50,656
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 785,841
<SALES> 1,467,214
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 1,492,214
<CGS> 1,512,020
<TOTAL-COSTS> 1,512,020
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 4,236
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 23,997
<INCOME-PRETAX> (349,758)
<INCOME-TAX> 0
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (349,758)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (349,758)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (7.21)
<EPS-DILUTED> (7.21)
<FN>
<F1> The Company changed its fiscal year-end from the Saturday closest to June
30 to the Saturday closest to December 31. The change in fiscal year-end
was effective for the six months ended December 30, 1995.
</FN>
</TABLE>
